Port of Tyne invests in UK’s first fully electric foiling pilot boat

The Port of Tyne has purchased the UK’s first fully electric foiling pilot vessel.

Electric foiling vessel

The vessel, which will be delivered before the end of 2025, will be used to transfer pilots onto the ships delivering essential goods and cargo to the northeast of England. Designed and built by Artemis Technologies in Belfast, the Artemis EF-12 Pilot is powered by Artemis’s eFoiler technology, producing zero operational emissions and offering a cleaner alternative to traditional diesel-powered vessels. The integration of advanced hydrofoil and electric propulsion technologies is projected to ensure a smooth, quiet and safe journey.

This investment by the Port of Tyne is intended to enhance the safety and efficiency of the port’s operations. It is also another major step toward the delivery of a fully net zero pilotage service as part of the port’s continuing drive to reduce emissions and decarbonize.

Zero-emission operations

Matt Beeton, CEO at the Port of Tyne, said, “Adding the EF-12 Pilot to the port’s fleet is a significant milestone not just for the Port of Tyne but for the maritime sector as a whole. As the first UK port to adopt this groundbreaking technology, we’re not only improving standards of safety and efficiency but also delivering a more sustainable operation in support of the government’s Maritime 2050 strategy. Together, we’re shaping a cleaner, smarter future for ports across the UK.”

Dr Iain Percy OBE, CEO of Artemis Technologies, commented, “We are delighted to partner with the Port of Tyne, which will see the UK’s first deployment of a fully electric foiling pilot boat. The collaboration showcases the potential of maritime innovation and technology to meet the demands of a cleaner maritime future. At Artemis Technologies, we are committed to developing high-performance, zero-emission solutions, and this partnership is a testament to what’s possible when industry leaders share a vision for transformation.”

In related news, Vessev’s VS—9 recently joined the fleet of Fullers360, New Zealand’s largest ferry operator, following the commercial certification by Maritime New Zealand. It is the first electric hydrofoiling tourism vessel to be commercialized by a major private operator. Click here to watch the full video.