By
Laura Hyde |
New Zealand-based ferry and tourism operator Fullers360 has started providing tours of Auckland Harbour onboard Kermadec, its new VS-9 hydrofoiling ferry, which was designed in collaboration with sustainable marine technology firm Vessev.
The ferry is the first certified electric hydrofoiling vessel in the world to enter service and will set “new standards for innovation and sustainability” in marine tourism, according to Vessev.
“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.”
The VS-9 features a spacious interior for up to eight passengers, who will travel at a service speed of 25 knots which Vessev says will feel more akin to flying than sailing. The nine-metre ferry has a zero-emission propulsion system with a range of 50 nautical miles thanks to Vessev’s hydrofoiling technology, which has been adapted from Team New Zealand 2013 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 [2024]. 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.”
Vessev and Fullers360 are currently collaborating on a 100-passenger version of the VS-9 ferry, which will be known as the VS-18.