Tickets on sale: Vessev VS—9 electric hydrofoil joins ferry fleet

Designed and built by Vessev, the ultramodern electric hydrofoiling VS—9 unlocks entirely new opportunities for premium passenger transport on the water. The nine-meter vessel can transport passengers at a service speed of 25 knots providing an experience more akin to flying.

Propelled by type-approved battery packs, the VS—9 has a range of up to 50 nautical miles (57 miles / 92.6km) thanks to precision-engineered hydrofoiling technology adapted from race-winning America’s Cup yachts. This efficiency and performance allows the VS—9 to be berthed and charged in nearly any marina, making it an incredibly scalable electric commercial platform.

Throughout sea trials, the VS—9 exceeded performance expectations mastering waves of up to one metre. The hyper efficient propulsion system uses approximately 55kW while cruising at 25 knots – the equivalent of just over 70HP. This is unheard of for a nine-meter vessel with a full standing height cabin.

Propelling the industry forward

In the world today, there are fewer than 200 electric hydrofoiling vessels, the vast majority of which are recreational craft. This moment marks a major milestone in the commercialisation of this technology, with the VS—9 being certified by Maritime New Zealand with many elements designed to international DNV standards.

Eric Laakmann, CEO of Vessev, commented: “This is a proud moment for us and a major milestone for marine sustainability. Fullers360 is the first major ferry operator in the world to incorporate a certified electric hydrofoiling tourism vessel into its fleet.

“That is an incredible achievement for the team at Vessev, Fullers360, and for New  Zealand innovation as a whole. We’re so excited for the new year, when passengers will be able to share in this experience”.

Mike Horne, CEO of Fullers360, commented: “Today is a landmark day for Fullers360, Vessev and New Zealand. 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.  We are excited by the future possibilities of Vessev’s technologies and very much looking forward to the first passenger journeys in the new year, which will be the start of many.”

Garry Jolliffe, COO of Vessev and Certification Lead, commented: “Engineered for safety is part of our ethos. We started this program in May of 2023 with Maritime New Zealand approved surveyors who have been embedded with us at every stage of the process. 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.”

The experiences on offer

Passengers can choose between an Electric Hydrofoil Experience or a private charter. The Experience promises to be an unforgettable 40-minute journey, starting at Auckland’s Viaduct Marina, where guests will experience foiling above the water while enjoying panoramic views of Auckland’s iconic skyline, the Harbour Bridge, and the stunning waters of the Hauraki Gulf. While onboard, New Zealand’s innovation will be showcased in an intimate setting.

“This is a significant milestone in Fullers360’s decarbonisation journey and marks a new era in high-end tourism for New Zealand. Vessev’s work to date is a great step for green technology and our local tourism industry; one I believe really puts New Zealand on the map and further cements us as leading innovators in the maritime industry” says Horne. 

Advance bookings are now available for 29th January 2025 onward for a limited time at Fullers360’s website.

The first in this transition

While this will be the first electric hydrofoiling tourism vessel to be commercialised by a major private operator, it is just the start of a once-in-a-generation transition to sustainable marine transport with 100-seater versions in development.

Laakmann concluded: “10 years from now - every major body of water will have electric hydrofoiling vessels operating and delivering entirely new services and experiences. This is just the start.”