Vessev’s VS-9 carbon fibre electric hydrofoil enters passenger service

The Vessev VS-9 is nine metres long. It travels at a service speed of 25 knots, providing an experience more akin to flying than sailing, according to Vessev. Powered by type approved battery packs, the VS–9 has a range of 50 nautical miles (57 miles/92.6km) thanks to precision hydrofoil technology adapted from race winning America’s Cup-winning racing yachts.

“We are incredibly proud to see the Vessev VS–9 enter service with Fullers360,” said Eric Laakmann CEO of Vessev. “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. For the public, we’re thrilled that they can now also share in what we’ve been experiencing since the launch of the VS—9 in May”.

Laakmann continued, “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 VS–9 features a spacious, comfortable interior with panoramic windows offering views of Auckland’s harbour. The ferry’s zero-emission characteristics are aligned with New Zealand’s sustainability goals and the government’s desire for greener transportation networks.

The Vessev VS–9 opens up new horizons. With its foiling innovations below the waterline and new level of energy efficiency, it represents much lower total cost of ownership than a comparable vessel with a displacement hull, even when equipped with an internal combustion engine or an electric motor. Moreover, the VS–9 is designed to sail on a vast range of bodies of waters and sea states, from almost any marina in the world, and can also be transported on land by means of a trailer.

Laakmann continued: “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.

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

Vessev and Fullers360 are continuing their collaboration and will be launching the VS–18, a 100-seater electric hydrofoiling commuter ferry.

The hull of the VS-9 is made of carbon fibre epoxy composite built to commercial standards. They use thick laminates. Carbon fibre has been chosen because it offers the longest overall life and is fatigue resistant.

Cover photo: Vessev VS-9