The Vessev VS-9 electric ferry uses hydrofoils to lift its hull above the water, reducing drag as it travels at up to 25 knots. The New Zealand company is pitching the battery-powered boat for passenger services, waterfront developments and tourism, with urban routes among its potential uses.
TechCrunch reporter Tim De Chant rode the Vessev VS-9 electric ferry on New York’s East River, from Brooklyn Marina towards Governors Island. He described a quiet ride and a minimal wake while the boat was foiling. Vessev’s official VS-9 specifications show a 105kWh battery and a top speed of 30 knots.
Vessev VS-9 electric ferry specs
| Specification | Vessev VS-9 |
|---|---|
| Length | 8.95m |
| Cruise speed | 25 knots |
| Top speed | 30 knots |
| Range at cruise | 40 nautical miles at full load; 50 nautical miles at light load |
| Battery | 105kWh |
| Foiling sea state | Waves up to 0.75m |
The ferry’s two underwater foils lift most of the hull clear of the water; computer-controlled flaps help stabilise it. The TechCrunch report says the rear foil also carries Vessev’s electric motor. The company argues that lower drag can make electric propulsion more practical, where energy use directly limits how far a vessel can travel between charges.
Where hydrofoils work best
That design has a boundary. Vessev lists foiling in waves up to 0.75m, and TechCrunch notes that larger waves hit the hull, reducing efficiency and ride comfort. The VS-9 is therefore aimed at rivers, bays and lakes rather than open-ocean crossings. Its range also changes with load: the published 40 nautical miles applies at full load, while 50 nautical miles is the light-load figure.
Vessev raised a $19 million Series A in August, TechCrunch reported, and is targeting transit operators before expanding production. The company’s founder told the outlet that it plans to build more VS-9s, with electric hydrofoil systems potentially becoming kits for other boatbuilders later.
Vessev has not named a UAE operator or route in the coverage; a local use case would need to fit the vessel’s wave limits, range and charging requirements.
Does the VS-9 prove electric ferries are cheaper to operate?
The report published no operating-cost figures or diesel-ferry comparison. Hydrofoils can reduce drag, but the actual economics would depend on route, passenger load, charging and maintenance.
What would a Dubai operator need to assess before using the VS-9?
A local operator would need to test the intended route against the vessel’s range, wave limits and charging requirements. The New York demonstration does not prove a UAE launch or a confirmed Dubai route.
