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Microsoft founder Bill Gates is one of the world's richest men, so it's no surprise that he can afford to splash out on luxury items every now and then. But, even for him, $US500 million [$747 million] is a large chunk of money.
- Bill Gates will take ownership of his hydrogen-powered yacht in 2024
- The yacht was revealed last year at an industry show in Monaco
- The yacht will contain an infinity pool, spa and helipad, among other things
And what has he spent it on? A hydrogen-powered superyacht, that he won't take possession of until the year 2024.
The yacht, designed by Dutch company Sinot, will be 112 metres long and run on liquid hydrogen.
It will feature an infinity pool, helipad and spa and will have room for up to 14 guests.
The yacht was first revealed in Monaco in 2019 and advertised as being suitable for a "forward-looking" owner.
"For the development of Aqua we took inspiration from the lifestyle of a discerning, forward-looking owner, the fluid versatility of water and cutting-edge technology, to combine this in a superyacht with truly innovative features," marine designer Sander Sinot said at the time.
The ship is not expected to hit the open water before 2024, according to the UK's Telegraph newspaper, but has the potential to reach a speed of 17 knots and travel 6,000 kilometres before it needs to refuel.
The 64-year-old Mr Gates was ranked the world's second-richest man in 2019, with a fortune of $US110 billion in November of that year.
He has pledged to give most of his fortune to good causes via The Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation, and recently donated $US100 million to help tackle coronavirus.
Topics: human-interest, people, united-states