Maritime technologies company Artemis Technologies has unveiled the design of its new fully-electric EF-24 passenger ferry.
With a reported top speed of 38 knots (43mph) and a foiling range of 115 nautical miles (132 miles) at 25 knots (28mph), Artemis claims that its vessel will play a major role in the global passenger ferry market as it moves towards decarbonisation.
According to Artemis, the electric ferry produces minimal wake, which means it is designed to enable high-speed operations in busy waterways.
Moreover, the ferry’s proposed design means it will ride above the waves, offering a more comfortable ride with reduced effects of seasickness on passengers.
The ferry’s design uses hydrofoils, which the company suggests offer significant operational savings, such as lower maintenance fees and up to 85% in reported fuel savings.
Artemis Technologies has partnered with Condor Ferries to pilot the first EF-24 Passenger ferry, which is planned to come into service in 2024, operating between Belfast and Bangor in Northern Ireland.
John Napton, CEO of Condor Ferries, said: “As a leading operator of passenger ferries, we continuously seek to explore technology that will allow us to sail more sustainably, and we know our customers are of the same mindset.
“Green vessels like the EF-24 Passenger ferry perfectly provide that clean alternative to traditional diesel ferries.
“We are thrilled to partner with Artemis Technologies and the Belfast Maritime Consortium to develop these vessels from concept to reality over the coming months and look forward to being the first operator to set sail in 2024 with the world’s most advanced zero-emission foiling fast ferry.”
The fully-electric vessel and systems were designed by Artemis Technologies with the intention of making the lowest possible impact on the environment.
