THE VESSEV VS-9 HYDROFOIL IS REVOLUTIONIZING MARINE TRANSPORT
Vessev is the New Zealand marine-tech company behind the VS-9, the world's first electric hydrofoiling vessel built to commercial standards. By lifting its hull clear of the water on retractable foils, the VS-9 delivers a quiet, smooth ride, cuts operating costs by up to 90% versus fossil-fuel boats, and is set to revolutionize both commercial and recreational marine transport.
What is the Vessev VS-9?
The Vessev VS-9 is a commercial-grade electric hydrofoil vessel engineered for safety and longevity. It integrates advanced stabilisation and seakeeping so it stays composed in demanding conditions, yet it is compact enough to fit into any marina, delivering large-vessel capabilities on a more manageable platform. It was designed to DNV standards and certified by Maritime New Zealand, and as Vessev confirms, it is the first certified electric hydrofoiling vessel to enter commercial passenger service.
How does the Vessev hydrofoil work?
The VS-9 rides on modular foil systems that raise the hull out of the water once it is up to speed, dramatically reducing drag. Retractable foils let it sit flat for efficient anchorage and trailering, keeping the vessel ready for its next journey. Because the foils carry the boat above the waves, passengers enjoy a notably smoother, quieter ride than a conventional hull can offer.
What is the VS-9 range and top speed?
The VS-9 offers a range of 40 to 50 nautical miles and a top speed of 30 knots, pairing real performance with minimal environmental impact. It charges quickly from both standard marina AC sources and DC sources, and its ethically sourced, long-lasting batteries are built for easy maintenance and replacement. As Electrek reports, the vessel was designed from the ground up to make electric marine transport viable at commercial scale.
What is the passenger experience like?
The passenger experience on the VS-9 is a clear step above a traditional ferry. Quiet operation and a smooth, foil-borne ride make it ideal for tourism and transport, while large wraparound windows create a seamless connection between the interior and the surroundings, whether that is a cityscape or pristine natural water. Through thoughtful design and superior technology, the VS-9 opens new commercial and recreational opportunities and pushes the marine industry toward a more sustainable future.
Electric and hydrofoil watercraft at TheArsenale
If the foil-borne, electric future of the water excites you, TheArsenale curates similar craft in its boats collection. The closest match is the Q2S electric hydrofoil boat by Quadrofoil, which flies above the surface on its own foils. For more electric and luxury watercraft, explore the Beau Lake electric runabout, the SAY29 Runabout Yacht, and the personal Airfly e-foil.
Browse the full boats collection at TheArsenale to find your own electric watercraft.
Photo: VESSEV
