Vessev, a global leader in sustainable marine technology, has showcased its highly anticipated VS-9 electric hydrofoil as the vessel enters the final phase of sea trials ahead of its commercial certification. The production of the first VS-9s is already underway, with New Zealand's largest ferry operator, Fullers360, set to bring the initial vessel into commercial service.
With its sleek nine-meter design, the VS-9 is designed to provide a unique, premium passenger experience, transporting up to 10 passengers at a cruising speed of 25 knots. Its combination of hydrofoil technology, elegant cabin design, and quiet, smooth operation sets it apart as a transformative force in water transportation and tourism.
While traditional passenger vessels have historically been larger to offer comfort, Vessev's VS-9 delivers a large vessel experience in a more compact and agile form. Designed to "fly" above the waves using America's Cup-derived hydrofoil technology, the vessel provides a ride more akin to a luxury car or private jet than a typical boat, reducing the impact of waves and wake.
The company's CEO, Eric Laakmann, emphasized that the VS-9 enables a new form of point-to-point transportation, comparing the shift to introducing limousines into a world of buses. The VS-9's innovative approach opens new possibilities for maritime travel, enhancing comfort while reducing operating costs.
Vessev's lead designer, Alain Brideson, highlighted the focus on utility and aesthetic balance, with each surface of the VS-9 meticulously crafted to exude quality and functionality.
Although the VS-9 is initially configured for premium transportation and tourism, the vessel’s design is versatile and scalable. Its catamaran structure, featuring a flat wing-deck from bow to stern, allows for a range of potential configurations. This adaptability makes it suitable for various uses, from eco-resort transfers and yacht tenders to high-end water taxis and limousines.
The platform's flexibility has already attracted significant interest across several sectors. Vessev envisions these electric foiling vessels as a vital step toward building a more sustainable maritime future.
Since the VS-9's initial launch in May and its reintroduction in August at Auckland's Westhaven Marina, the vessel has undergone rigorous sea trials and is set to receive certification from Maritime New Zealand.
Vessev’s ongoing advancements in hydrofoil technology, combined with its focus on reducing the carbon footprint of maritime transportation, underscore the company's commitment to leading the global shift toward sustainable water transport. The introduction of the VS-9 marks a pivotal moment in the industry's transition toward zero-emission maritime solutions.
As Laakmann reflected, while few people today have experienced an electric hydrofoiling vessel, this technology will likely become the new standard for water travel within the next decade, transforming the way the world moves on the water.
