The maritime industry is buzzing with the news that Artemis Technologies, the UK-based innovator in electric foiling vessels, has just inked a partnership with Delta Marine, a Seattle-based shipbuilder. This isn’t just another corporate handshake; it’s a game-changer for the Puget Sound region and a significant step forward in the global push for sustainable maritime transportation. The partnership will see Artemis Technologies’ patented eFoiler design integrated into new ferry and water taxi vessels, specifically tailored for Washington State’s Puget Sound. This move is set to revolutionize the regional maritime landscape, offering an eco-friendly solution that tackles both environmental and logistical challenges head-on.
Artemis Technologies, with its award-winning reputation in clean maritime technology, is no stranger to innovation. The company has poured over $100 million into research and development since its inception in 2017. Their track record includes the world’s first commercial workboat electric foiling vessel, the Pioneer of Belfast, deployed in 2022. Now, they’re bringing their electric foiling ferry design, the Artemis EF-24, to the table. This sleek vessel can carry up to 150 passengers at a cruising speed of 32 knots, powered entirely by electricity, with a range of 115 nautical miles. It’s a testament to how far electric maritime technology has come.
The EF-24 is just the tip of the iceberg. Artemis also offers the Artemis EF-12 Escape, a water taxi designed for commuters and luxury travel, which debuted at the America’s Cup races in Barcelona. Both models are scalable solutions for modern, high-speed ferry services, and they’re perfectly suited for routes operated by King County Water Taxi and Kitsap Transit on Puget Sound. These vessels are optimized for efficiency and lower environmental impact, reflecting the ‘mosquito fleet’ style of smaller, more agile ferries that have been advocated as a practical solution to Puget Sound’s ferry congestion.
David Tyler, co-founder of Artemis Technologies, is bullish about the partnership. “Our collaboration with Delta Marine enables us to bring our market-leading eFoiler technology to one of the busiest ferry hubs in the U.S. Washington State is ready for this shift to sustainable maritime transit, and we’re proud to offer real-world solutions that address the region’s pressing transportation challenges and environmental goals,” he said. Tyler also highlighted the significant interest Artemis has seen from U.S. operators and stakeholders since establishing its North America operations in New York earlier this year. This MOU with Delta Marine aligns with ongoing partnerships and contracts with notable maritime operators, including Condor Ferries, Orkney Ferries, Brabo, Swedish Maritime Administration, and Red Funnel, underscoring the clean maritime company’s commitment to decarbonizing marine transportation on a global scale.
Delta Marine’s vice president Michelle Jones echoed Tyler’s enthusiasm. “Partnering with Artemis Technologies allows us to bring world-leading electrification and foiling expertise to our region. By building these ferries locally, we are supporting Washington’s clean energy objectives and fostering innovation in the U.S. maritime sector.” Jones also emphasized Delta Marine’s long-standing commitment to advanced lightweight composite construction, which aligns perfectly with Artemis Technologies’ innovative approach.
This partnership is more than just a business deal; it’s a statement of intent. It signals a clear commitment to sustainability and innovation in the maritime industry. As Washington State Ferries, the nation’s largest operator, transitions its fleet to hybrid-electric propulsion, and the San Francisco Bay Ferry develops a new fleet of fully electric passenger ferries, the pressure is on for other regions to follow suit. This partnership could very well be the catalyst that sparks a wave of similar initiatives across the U.S. and beyond.
The implications are vast. If this partnership succeeds, we could see a significant reduction in carbon emissions from maritime transportation in the Puget Sound region. It could also pave the way for similar electric foiling vessels in other parts of the world, accelerating the global shift towards sustainable maritime transport. Moreover, it could inspire other shipbuilders to invest in electric and foiling technologies, fostering a new era of innovation in the maritime industry.
But it’s not all smooth sailing. There are challenges ahead. Integrating new technologies into existing infrastructure can be complex and costly. There are also questions about the scalability and long-term viability of electric foiling vessels. However, with Artemis Technologies’ proven track record and Delta Marine’s expertise in composite construction, this partnership is well-positioned to overcome these hurdles.
The maritime industry is at a crossroads. Traditional combustion engines are being challenged by cleaner, more efficient alternatives. This partnership between Artemis Technologies and Delta Marine is a bold step forward, a testament to the industry’s commitment to sustainability and innovation. It’s a move that could reshape the future
