Vessev, a company developing electric foiling vessels, has completed the initial testing phase of its world first VS-9 vessel in New Zealand. 

The tourism-focussed platform first entered the water in May and has conducted 24 test sessions already, demonstrating its capabilities ahead of entering service for ferry operator Fullers360. 

Eric Laakmann, Vessev CEO, said: “We have been pushing the VS—9 less than two weeks after its first flight and she has been ticking all the boxes and more. 

“On some of our test sessions, we had 25 knots gusting 35 with wind waves to match and she was cruising over the waves.” 

Following testing, the VS-9 will be fitted out with its cabin and interior in July before entering the water again in August. 

The 9m long vessel has a capacity of 10 passengers and can travel at speeds of 25 knots with a range of 50 nautical miles, it is believed to be the first of its kind in the tourism industry thanks to its electric propulsion and hydrofoiling technology. 

Vessev has also highlighted the vessel’s ability to glide above waves in the water as a significant advantage over conventional boats, which may be hindered in harsher sea conditions. 

Max Olson, Vessev founder and chief technology officer, said: “One of the great features of these hydrofoiling vessels is their ability to handle waves in a totally different way to a conventional vessel. 

“By riding above them, we create a vessel that can operate throughout a wider range of sea states than ever. The more challenging use cases that the VS—9 will operate in would not be possible with a similar non-foiling vessel.” 

While the VS-9 will initially be used for small capacity services by companies such as Fullers360, Vessev is hoping that the technology can be scaled up to larger foiling vessels with a capacity of up to 100 passengers.