Vessev: Electric hydrofoiling ferry enters service in New Zealand

Vessev, a New Zealand-based sustainable marine technology company, revealed that the first VS-9 hydrofoiling ferry has entered commercial service with Fullers360, the largest ferry transport and tourism operator in New Zealand.

Starting on January 29, 2025, the vessel, named Kermadec, will carry passengers on tourism trips across Auckland’s waterways, setting new standards for innovation and sustainability in marine tourism.

This is ‘the first time’ in the world that a certified electric hydrofoiling vessel has entered the fleet of an operator for commercial services, according to Vessev which was founded in 2018.

The nine-meter electric hydrofoiling VS–9 will transport passengers at a service speed of 25 knots, providing an experience more akin to flying than sailing. Propelled by type-approved battery packs, the VS-9 has a range of 50 nautical miles (57 miles/92.6km) thanks to hydrofoiling technology.

“We are incredibly proud to see the Vessev VS–9 enter service with Fullers360. The VS-9 is the first electric vessel to enter the Fullers360 fleet and represents an enormous step on their path to being net zero by 2040,” Eric Laakmann, CEO of Vessev, commented.

“This new era of hydrofoiling vessels traces its origins to the efforts by Team New Zealand in the 2013 America’s Cup. It is fitting that today visitors to Auckland can now simply buy a ticket with Fullers360 to experience the new era of how we will move on the water.”

The ferry’s zero-emission propulsion system is said to support New Zealand’s broader sustainability goals, aligning with the government’s vision for greener transportation networks.

“Traditionally, larger vessels are required to deliver a comfortable passenger experience as they can handle the impact of waves and wake. By flying above the waves, the Vessev VS–9 delivers a large vessel experience on an agile platform that can be berthed and charged in nearly any marina. In the future, we are going to see many different use cases made viable by technology like this,” Laakmann continued.

“The Vessev VS–9 is a game-changer for our fleet and our passengers,” Tim O’Halloran, Chief Commercial Officer at Fullers360, said.

“Its innovative design and sustainable operation are perfectly suited to Auckland’s vibrant maritime landscape, and we are excited to welcome our first passengers onboard.”

The commercial launch of the Vessev VS–9 marks the beginning of a new chapter in sustainable marine transportation. As Vessev and Fullers360 continue to collaborate, they aim to inspire further advancements in marine sustainability and innovation across the globe with the VS–18, a 100-seater electric hydrofoiling commuter ferry, on the drawing board.