The 114 metre superyacht Nausicaä, formerly known as Project Cosmos, has officially entered sea trials in the Bay of Kiel, marking its first step toward an anticipated 2026 delivery. Built by Lürssen, one of the world’s most prestigious shipyards, Nausicaä is among the first methanol fuel-cell powered superyachts ever produced by the yard. The vessel’s hybrid system is designed to significantly reduce emissions while delivering the kind of quiet, seamless cruising experience that only extreme engineering and even more extreme money can buy.
The superyacht is owned by Japanese billionaire Yusaku Maezawa, the fashion retail magnate behind Zozotown and a man well known for collecting rare art and funding private space missions. The name Nausicaä appears to be a direct tribute to Nausicaä of the Valley of the Wind, the beloved 1984 Studio Ghibli film directed by Hayao Miyazaki. Maezawa has publicly expressed admiration for anime and Ghibli’s work, and the choice aligns perfectly with his flair for symbolism. In both the film and the yacht, technology, nature, and bold ambition all coexist in a single sweeping vision.
While full specifications remain closely guarded, Nausicaä is expected to feature a helipad, vast outdoor decks, fold down sea terraces, and panoramic viewing lounges. Whether she ultimately becomes a private vessel or enters the high end charter market remains unknown, but one thing is clear: Nausicaä represents a shift in what modern luxury yachts aspire to be. A fusion of cutting edge technology, environmental awareness, and billionaire spectacle.
