Artemis Technologies has unveiled the EF-12 Pilot, which it describes as the world’s first fully electric hydrofoil pilot boat, with the vessel now undergoing sea trials ahead of its planned entry into commercial service.
The EF-12 Pilot has been developed specifically for pilot transfer operations and combines a battery-electric propulsion system with hydrofoil technology that lifts the hull above the water during transit.
According to Artemis Technologies, the design reduces hydrodynamic drag, lowering energy consumption while improving vessel stability, manoeuvrability and wake performance.
Electric Hydrofoil Designed for Pilot Transfers
The vessel is based on the company’s proprietary eFoiler platform, which Artemis Technologies said has accumulated more than four years of operational experience.
An active flight control system is designed to maintain stable performance across varying weather and sea conditions, while the deck layout has been optimised to meet the operational and safety requirements of pilot transfer services.
The EF-12 Pilot will be available in single- and twin-propulsion configurations.
Artemis Technologies expects demand for zero-emission specialist vessels in ports to continue growing as maritime operators pursue decarbonisation initiatives.
Orders Secured from Global Operators
The company said customers that have already ordered the EF-12 Pilot include Brabo in Belgium, the Swedish Maritime Administration, Noatum Maritime in Abu Dhabi and the Port of Tyne in the United Kingdom.
The launch further expands Artemis Technologies’ portfolio of electric hydrofoil vessels, which also includes workboats and passenger ferries designed to help ports and maritime operators reduce emissions.
The company’s hydrofoil technology is already being tested in commercial port operations. Since spring 2025, the Port of Rotterdam Authority has been operating an electric EF-12 Workboat in daily service to evaluate its handling, reliability and suitability for routine harbour operations.
The ongoing trials are expected to support future decisions on the electrification of the port authority’s vessel fleet.