Partnership to introduce electric foiling ferries for operation in Washington's Puget Sound

UK-based marine technology company Artemis Technologies and Seattle-based yacht builder Delta Marine have entered into a memorandum of understanding (MOU) on the manufacture of electric foil-equipped passenger vessels specifically for Washington's Puget Sound.

Under the MOU, Artemis Technologies and Delta Marine will introduce small electric hydrofoil ferries ideal for high-speed, short-haul routes.

The vessels being proposed by the partnership will be examples of Artemis Technologies' 24-metre electric hydrofoil ferry. Each will have a draught of only 1.8 metres with the foil retracted, a maximum displacement of 70 tonnes, and capacity for 150 passengers and three crewmembers.

The ferries will also be fully accessible and spacious with a range of facilities on board including bike racks, cabin bag and overhead storage, baby changing facilities, and charging points for mobile devices.

A top speed of 38 knots can be achieved while and a range of 115 nautical miles is possible at a cruising speed of 25 knots.

Powered by Artemis Technologies' patented foil-type electric propulsion system, the vessels are designed to fly above the water, providing a comfortable ride for the passengers, mitigating the effects of seasickness, and producing minimal wake at high speeds.