Brabo to deploy 100% electric foiling boat in the Port of Antwerp-Bruges

Belgium-based provider of pilot and port services Brabo has ordered a 100% electric foiling pilot boat from the UK’s clean maritime technology company Artemis Technologies.

Scheduled for delivery in late summer 2025, the introduction of the fully electric foiling vessel represents a forward-thinking shift for one of the world’s busiest ports, aligning with global efforts to tackle climate change and champion sustainable practices across the maritime industry.

The boat, designed with input from pilotage service operators around the globe, is said to meet the highest standards of safety and performance and to be compliant with European Standard laying down Technical Requirements for Inland Navigation vessels (ES-TRIN).

Being 100% electric, the boat produces zero operational emissions whilst slashing operational costs by up to 80%.

An advanced active flight control system offers precise control, ensuring optimal stability and safety in displacement mode during pilot transfers, even in challenging conditions – significantly enhancing comfort for both pilots and crew, according to Artemis Technologies.

The Artemis eFoiler electric propulsion system also minimizes wake, allowing for high-speed transit in areas where such speeds were previously restricted – thereby boosting pilot hour utilization and lessening environmental impacts.

“We are very excited to include this vessel in our fleet. Since the first contact with Artemis Technologies, already two years ago, we were convinced that this technology could help us in our mission for sustainable, safe and comfortable waterborne transport,” Herman Van Driessche, CEO of Brabo Havenloodsen en Bootlieden BV, commented.

“We are proud to soon be able to operationally deploy this pioneering foiling vessel in the Port of Antwerp-Bruges. With this purchase, we fully support their vision to strive together towards a sustainable port.”

“This contract underscores the confidence placed in our technology and our ability to deliver high-speed, zero-emission solutions that meet the rigorous demands of maritime operations. Brabo’s decision to integrate an Artemis EF-12 Pilot into their fleet is a testament to the vessel’s performance and our shared commitment to future-proofing our oceans and waterways,” Iain Percy, CEO of Artemis Technologies, said.

As part of the testing and validation of the Artemis EF-12 Pilot, Artemis recently put its e-foiling technology through its paces in the Port of Cork, Ireland. During the demonstration the Artemis EF-12 Workboat completed multiple pilot transfer manoeuvres alongside a range of vessel types.

Earlier this year, Artemis Technologies sold its all-electric foiling workboat to Denmark. The vessel — the first of its kind in Denmark — was scheduled to enter service this summer.