Electric ‘flying’ ferries to begin three-year Orkney trial from January

Two electric “flying” passenger ferries are set to begin a three-year trial in Orkney from January.

The vessels – which have their hulls above water – will launch in January 2025, and come after £15.5m of funding from the UK Government’s Zero Emission Vessels and Infrastructure Fund, which is aimed at decarbonising the maritime sector.

The hydrofoil vessels are being supplied by Belfast-based Artemis Technologies.

One will be capable of carrying 12 passengers and will travel between Kirkwall, Shapinsay, Rousay, Egilsay and Wyre.

A larger vessel is capable of carrying 50 people and some light cargo.

Both are fully electric and the charging infrastructure is set to be installed over the winter.

Transportation service manager Laura Cromarty, said: “Two electric ferries will be trialled in Orkney following a funding bid submitted to the UK Government’s Zero Emission Vessel and Infrastructure (ZEVI) Fund, which aims to boost the country’s decarbonisation efforts.

“The bid, submitted by Orkney Ferries Limited, Artemis Technologies and EMEC, will trial electric vessels using hydrofoil technology, which lifts the hull out of the water to navigate above the waves.

“The trial will be a test of zero emission technology in some of the harshest of environments, with the aim to show proof of concept. The benefit to the communities involved is improved connectivity to the islands, extending the length of operating day where possible.

“The first vessel, for up to 12 passengers, is due to be delivered to Orkney in January 2025. During January to March, the vessel will be tested by local crew in Orkney waters to help establish what can be achieved from a timetable perspective.

“If it proves suitable for the conditions, it is anticipated the vessel will come into service in April 2025 operating between Rousay, Egilsay, Wyre and Shapinsay to Kirkwall.

“As this is a trial service, it should be noted that there will be no impact to the existing scheduled service during the project period.

“The ‘Electric Orkney’ project will provide additional services to the community over and above the existing backbone operation by Orkney Ferries Limited. Continuation of the service beyond the trial period will be subject to demand, proof of concept and budget.”

Ahead of the trial’s launch, the council’s transportation service is keen to hear feedback from residents and frequent travellers to Rousay, Egilsay, Wyre and Shapinsay to help shape a suitable timetable that will run in addition to the existing scheduled ferry service already in operation.

A short questionnaire will run until the end of January 2025.

Ms Cromarty added: “At this stage, it would be useful to understand what passengers would like to see from the trial service if the vessel proves suitable for the conditions.

“For example, early morning connectivity to meet external transport links or evening services for social and leisure purposes and on what days of the week people are most likely to travel.

“Following consideration of the survey responses and vessel testing, a draft timetable will be circulated for further consideration by the communities via the Community Councils. Updates of the Electric Orkney project will be provided to communities via their elected Transport Representatives.”