Electric ‘flying ferry’ service to launch in Belfast

Plans for a new “flying” ferry service that will run from Belfast, Northern Ireland have been unveiled.

Created by Artemis Technologies, the EF-24 passenger ferry will run entirely on electricity and produces zero emissions.

The first ferry, which has been named Zero, will be operated by Condor Ferries on a pilot scheme from Belfast to Bangor, Co Down, from 2024.

“The zero-emission ferry that will be seen departing Belfast in 2024, aptly named ‘Zero’, will be the first we build at our manufacturing hub in the city, but it is only the start,” said Dr Iain Percy, Founder, Artemis Technologies.

“Many water-based cities around the world are grappling with the challenge of growing populations, congestion and pollution.

“The EF-24 Passenger can provide an immediate green transport solution that competes economically with road and rail in places like San Francisco, New York, Venice, Istanbul, Dubai and Singapore – anywhere around the globe that is seeking sustainable transport alternatives that balance the requirement for people to continue to move around with the need to reduce carbon emissions.

“Especially where new infrastructure is required like a new road or rail line, this ferry will not only be the cheapest, but also the fastest and least disruptive way to decarbonise transport networks in water-based cities.”

How it works

Powered by the firm’s eFoiler electric propulsion system, the 24-metre vessels will ‘fly’ above the water, with space for up to 150 passengers on board.

The company claims the boats produce minimal wake at high-speed, which reduces impact on shorelines.

With a top speed of 38 knots, the ferry has a range of 115 nautical miles at a 25 knots cruise speed and produces fuel savings of up to 85 percent when compared to conventional high-speed diesel ferries.

Facilities on board include bike racks, cabin bag and overhead storage, baby-changing facilities and charging points.

The vessels will also feature a new high-speed collision avoidance system developed in conjunction with tech experts from Queen’s University Belfast.

Artemis leads the Belfast Maritime Consortium, which includes manufacturers, universities and local councils in Northern Ireland.

“Blue-green infrastructure is going to be a vital part of Belfast’s integrated transport plan and we are all looking forward to seeing the zero-emission ferries on Belfast lough in 2024,” said John Walsh, Chief Executive, Belfast City Council.