The Port of Rotterdam has introduced a fully electric hydrofoil patrol boat as part of its ongoing efforts to decarbonise its fleet by replacing older vessels. The new vessel, leased from Belfast-based Artemis Technologies, will be tested in a pilot project running until November 2025.
The pilot aims to assess the Artemis EF-12 Workboat’s sailing behaviour, reliability, and suitability for tasks carried out by the Harbour Master’s Division. Officials will also evaluate the benefits and challenges associated with electric propulsion and charging infrastructure, informing future electrification initiatives within the port’s operations.
“We are enthusiastic about exploring whether and how electric hydrofoils can complement our range of deployable resources,” said Verweij from the Port of Rotterdam Authority. He highlighted the vessel’s “minimal impact of wave action and the exceptional stability, even in rough waters,” which are key factors for port operations where 28,000 sea-going and 91,000 inland vessels call annually.
The workboat is expected to be deployable 24/7 to support enforcement and monitoring activities. “We aim to be the smartest port, increasingly using modern tools in our enforcement and monitoring tasks. We also want to be the most sustainable port, but in case of incidents, we must be able to respond rapidly on the water,” Verweij added.
Artemis Technologies, known for its fully electric hydrofoil boats, designed an all-electric passenger ferry scheduled for service entry in 2024. Several of their hydrofoil ferries are already operating in the UK.
The Port of Rotterdam has also initiated other sustainability programs, including recent deployment of a robotic charging system at the APM container terminal Maasvlakte II. This system will power 30 automated terminal trucks using battery and hydrogen fuel solutions, reinforcing the port’s commitment to emission reduction.