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Artemis EF-12 electric hydrofoil vessel reaches Orkney (Credit Colin Keldie – EMEC)
The arrival of Artemis EF-12 Workboat XL marks a significant next phase in the Electric Orkney initiative, with the vessel poised to commence trials.
Artemis Technologies, a worldwide frontrunner in advanced maritime innovation, along with Orkney Ferries and the European Marine Energy Centre (EMEC), are delighted to declare the arrival in Orkney of the completely electric hydrofoil vessel – the Artemis EF-12 Workboat XL, christened ‘Zevi 1’.
The arrival of the Belfast-manufactured Artemis EF-12 Workboat XL signifies an essential milestone in the Electric Orkney initiative, which intends to exhibit the advantages of electric-powered hydrofoil workboats and passenger ferries for servicing some of the inter-island routes in Orkney, aiding in decarbonization and island connectivity. Its deployment marks the beginning of crucial trials to assess performance in Orkney’s distinctive operating environment. The vessel will subsequently undergo a trial service lasting three years, linking Kirkwall with Shapinsay, Egilsay, Wyre, and Rousay across four daily rotations.
In the upcoming months, comprehensive data will be amassed to evaluate the vessel’s efficiency and operational performance. The insights obtained from these trials will validate the technology and foster broader adoption of maritime solutions that facilitate zero-emission operations throughout Orkney and beyond. Accompanying the Artemis EF-12 Workboat XL in Orkney is the setup of an ultra-fast charger in Kirkwall, enabling a full charge for the 12-meter vessel in under 60 minutes.
Councillor Mellissa Thomson, Chair of the Board of Orkney Ferries, commented:
“The arrival of the Artemis Technologies hydrofoil vessel is a significant occasion for Orkney and our community, one that we have eagerly anticipated. Now the exhilarating work commences as we look forward to seeing the vessel on the water undergoing its essential tests. I am confident that the Electric Orkney initiative will provide islanders with a smoother, quieter service tailored for the future.”
Dr. Iain Percy, CEO of Artemis Technologies, stated:
“Introducing the Artemis EF-12 Workboat XL to the islands aligns with Electric Orkney’s ongoing objective of decarbonizing transport while enhancing the quality of service for residents and tourists.”
With a capacity to carry 12 passengers, the Artemis EF-12 Workboat XL incorporates the groundbreaking Artemis eFoiler® technology, which significantly decreases emissions, operational costs, and noise pollution, while delivering a smoother, more pleasant experience for all on board. This accomplishment in the Electric Orkney project represents the delivery of the first of two vessels, with the second, the Artemis EF-24 Passenger, anticipated to follow.
Neale Ryan, Head of Land & Maritime Transport at Innovate UK, the primary delivery partner of the UK Government’s UK SHORE programme, which funds the Electric Orkney initiative, remarked:
“We are exceedingly pleased that yet another UK SHORE-funded project will now bring new zero-carbon maritime capabilities, this time to Orkney, a community where ferry transport is integral to daily life. The Electric Orkney initiative exemplifies UK SHORE projects showcasing the best of domestic innovation and providing real benefits to regions across the UK.”
The Electric Orkney initiative is partially financed by the UK Government through the UK Shipping Office for Reducing Emissions (UK SHORE) programme under the Department for Transport. UK SHORE has allocated over £200m since 2022 to develop the necessary technologies for decarbonizing the UK maritime sector and seizing the economic growth opportunity presented by this transition. Innovate UK, a part of UK Research and Innovation, serves as the primary delivery partner for UK SHORE interventions. The Electric Orkney initiative is one among various projects participating in the demonstration and showcasing of their projects and technologies throughout the UK in 2025, involving a range of vessel types and innovative infrastructure in ports and harbors.
With sea trials approaching, further updates will be shared once these are concluded and the project progresses.
Source: Artemis Technologies
