World’s First Fully Electric Hydrofoil Pilot Boat Begins Sea Trials

Belfast-based Artemis Technologies has launched the Artemis EF-12 Pilot, the world’s first fully electric hydrofoil pilot boat, with the vessel now undergoing sea trials ahead of commercial service.

The zero-emission vessel is designed for daily pilot transfer operations, where harbour pilots are transported between ports and large ships.

It uses hydrofoil technology to lift its hull above the water while travelling, reducing drag, energy use and wake compared with conventional diesel-powered pilot boats.

Artemis Technologies said it has already received orders from Brabo in Belgium, the Swedish Maritime Administration, Noatum Maritime in Abu Dhabi and the Port of Tyne in the UK.

Pilot transfers are considered one of the most demanding jobs in commercial shipping. Harbour pilots have to board and leave large moving ships, often in rough sea conditions.

Because of this, conventional pilot boats are built with powerful diesel engines, deep-V hulls, self-righting capability and reinforced fenders to handle repeated contact with ships while providing fast acceleration and precise manoeuvring.

The Artemis EF-12 Pilot takes a different approach. Instead of pushing through the water, it uses the company’s patented Artemis eFoiler system to lift its carbon-fibre hull above the surface once it reaches speed.

This reduces hydrodynamic drag, allowing the fully electric vessel to use less energy while also creating less wake, which can help reduce shoreline erosion and disturbance to anchored vessels.

The company said the hydrofoil system is based on more than four years of operational experience with its Artemis eFoiler technology and is designed to provide stable handling in different weather and sea conditions.

The vessel is equipped with an active flight control system that automatically adjusts its ride height, roll and pitch to reduce deck movement during pilot transfers.

Artemis said the design also includes improved visibility, an optimised layout and deck arrangements to support safe and consistent operations.

The Artemis EF-12 Pilot has a top speed of 32 knots (37 mph) and a foiling range of 45 to 55 nautical miles (52 to 63 miles). It can be fully recharged in less than an hour using ultra-fast DC charging.

The vessel will be available in Single Propulsion and Dual Propulsion versions and can carry up to four passengers.

Artemis Technologies said crews involved in simulated testing and real-world trials experienced up to six times fewer body vibrations than on conventional diesel pilot boats.

“Pilotage places very specific demands on a vessel. The Artemis EF-12 Pilot applies proven foiling technology to meet those demands, delivering an efficient, fully electric solution that supports pilots, crews and port operations globally,” said Dr Iain Percy, CEO of Artemis Technologies.

References: artemistechnologies, interestingengineering