Australia’s first electric hydrofoil boats to be rolled out on Tasmania’s Derwent River

Tasmania is set to introduce Australia’s first electric hydrofoil boat network on the Derwent River through a collaboration between New Zealand’s marine technology firm Vessev and local clean transport initiative Fly Derwent. The project will launch with a single Vessev VS-9 vessel, capable of seating ten passengers, targeting early commuter services and premium tourism. Plans are in place to expand the fleet with larger 30-seat VS-12 boats, aiming to cover the full 60-kilometre stretch of the Derwent River from New Norfolk to Opossum Bay. The VS-9 hydrofoil measures nearly nine metres in length and can reach speeds up to 30 knots, cruising comfortably at 25 knots with a range of 50 nautical miles. Its hydrofoiling design, utilising carbon fibre foils, lifts the boat above the water to reduce drag and virtually eliminate wake, enhancing efficiency by up to three times compared to traditional vessels. This technology allows for rapid charging, with one nautical mile of travel achievable per minute of charging, and aligns well with Tasmania’s near-100 per cent renewable electricity supply, ensuring zero-emission operations. Fly Derwent principal Cameron McCulloch emphasised the transformative potential of the technology, describing it as a new mode of water transport that could function more like a metro system than a conventional ferry service. The project also explores innovations such as on-site battery storage, vehicle-to-grid integration, and mobile charging infrastructure to support route expansion and operational flexibility. Vessev CEO Eric Laakmann highlighted Tasmania’s ideal conditions for demonstrating zero-emission marine transport at scale, combining abundant renewable energy with strong local commitment. The first VS-9 vessel is expected to arrive in Hobart early next year, with Vessev and Fly Derwent working closely to accelerate the deployment of the larger VS-12 boats. This initiative not only promises to enhance sustainable transport options on the Derwent River but also positions Tasmania as a leader in adopting cutting-edge electric marine technology. The project’s success could serve as a model for similar waterways worldwide, showcasing the viability of electric hydrofoils in reducing environmental impact while improving commuter and tourism experiences.