New Zealand’s largest ferry operator adds ‘world first’ electric hydrofoiling tourism vessel to fleet

The Vessev VS—9 electric hydrofoiling vessel in Auckland, New Zealand, will accept its first passengers from 29 January 2025.

Sustainable marine technology company Vessev has announced its VS—9 hydrofoil vessel has received commercial approval from Maritime New Zealand. 

It will now join the fleet of tourism vessels operated by Fullers360, an Auckland ferry operator, and New Zealand’s largest, making it the world’s first certified tourism electric hydrofoil.

Designed and built by Vessev, the nine-metre vessel can transport up to 10 passengers at a cruising speed of 25 knots.

With precision-engineered hydrofoiling technology adapted from race-winning America’s Cup yachts, the VS-9 is able to achieve a range of up to 50 nautical miles (93km).

According to Vessev, the propulsion system uses approximately 55kW while cruising at 25 knots – the equivalent of just over 70hp. It claims that this is unheard of for a vessel of this size with a full standing height cabin. 

The vast majority of hydrofoiling vessels are recreational craft. This marks the first time that a vessel of this kind has passed international DNV standards (certification of structural integrity of marine vessels) including certification to transport passengers. 

Garry Jolliffe, chief operating officer of Vessev and certification lead, said: “It’s one thing to build a hydrofoiling vessel, it's an entirely different challenge to engineer and deliver one to commercial standards.

“We are thrilled to have received our certificate of survey from Maritime New Zealand and look forward to seeing the VS—9 entering into commercial service shortly.”

Mike Horne, CEO of Fullers360, said: “The potential of the VS—9 is simply enormous – it opens up an entirely new way of travelling, one that is not only immensely enjoyable but is efficient and plays a key role in reducing emissions.”

Vessev said that the vessels’ hydrofoiling technology together with its robust battery systems made it three to five times more efficient than a comparable nine-metre/10-person ferry, and the efficiencies increase with the size of the boat. In fact, Vessev says it has 100-seater versions in development.

According to Vessev’s CEO, Eric Laakmann, in a decade “every major body of water will have electric hydrofoiling vessels operating and delivering entirely new services and experiences. This is just the start.”