VESSEL REVIEW | Hydroglyder – Electric hydrofoil workboat takes on harbour support duties

Singapore-based technology company Yinson GreenTech (YGT) recently unveiled a new fully electric hydrofoil-equipped catamaran vessel that will undertake crew transfer and passenger transport duties.

Hydroglyder was developed in collaboration with Norwegian companies Zeabuz and Lift Ocean. The vessel can transport up to 12 passengers plus two crewmembers up to 20 nautical miles at a cruising speed of around 25 knots, though a top speed of 30 knots can be attained.

YGT said the vessel offers a sustainable alternative to fossil fuel-powered boats, thus providing a greener, more comfortable, and quieter ride.

The DNV-classed vessel has a length of 11.9 metres (39 feet), a beam of 5.3 metres (17 feet), a maximum draught of 2.4 metres (7.9 feet), and a lightship displacement of 10 tonnes. The draught is reduced to only 1.1 metres (3.6 feet) when foiling.

The air-conditioned main cabin features a toilet, 10 electric bilge pumps, fire and gas detectors, and portable extinguishers. The exterior meanwhile has custom-made composite fenders to help protect the hull against impact damage.

Hydrofoil system for smoother rides and lower power consumption

The passenger seats are custom 3D printed to ensure the lightest possible marine-grade seats. As a result, the seats only weigh a few kilograms and are easy to clean and ergonomically designed for comfort.

Hydroglyder is fitted with a 252kWh lithium-ion battery pack, which is the main source of propulsive power. A smaller 16kWh battery pack is also equipped for use during emergencies when the main battery pack is inoperable.

The main propulsion has a total installed power of 390 kW while a 15kW tunnel thruster provides added lateral manoeuvrability. The composite metallic hybrid hydrofoil is driven by an active flight control system while normal steering is via joystick and a thruster lever. PV panels are also fitted to supply some of the electrical power requirements.

The vessel's hydrofoil system lifts the lightweight composite hull above the water, significantly reducing drag and energy consumption. YGT said this design results in up to 80 per cent lower energy consumption and 90 per cent lower operational costs compared to conventional vessels.

Enhanced automation for safer operation

The vessel also boasts advanced sensors and navigation systems, providing the crew with enhanced situational awareness and decision-making capabilities. An auto-docking feature enables the vessel to position itself along the berth for crew changes and charging operations.

As one of the first first fully electric hydrofoil vessels in operation in Singapore, Hydroglyder will support the Maritime and Port Authority of Singapore’s plans for all new harbour craft operating in the Port of Singapore to be fully electric, be capable of using B100 biofuel, or be compatible with net zero fuels from 2030.