Vessev trials electric hydrofoiling ferry on Lake Wakatipu

Auckland-based Vessev will trial its electric hydrofoiling vessel on Queenstown’s Lake Wakatipu on February 10, exploring sustainable transport solutions for New Zealand’s fastest-growing city.

The trial, led by residential developer Kingston Village in partnership with Vessev and regional stakeholders, will test the VS-9’s passenger service capabilities between Queenstown and Kingston. The exercise aims to examine travel times, passenger experience and operational factors specific to Lake Wakatipu conditions.

Vessev chief executive and co-founder Eric Laakmann says Queenstown’s rapid growth and global profile make it an ideal testing ground for future transport solutions.

“Queenstown is growing, and with that comes congestion and longer commute times,” Laakmann says. “Road expansion around Lake Wakatipu is constrained, but the lake itself presents an opportunity. At the moment it’s underutilised for transport, and electric hydrofoiling gives us a practical way to change that.”

The trial comes as Queenstown pursues its ambition to become the world’s first fully electrified city, while managing increasing tourism demands and local economic growth.

Commercial-grade hydrofoiling technology

The VS-9 is one of only two commercially-certified electric hydrofoiling vessels operating worldwide and has been in commercial service for over a year. The 29-foot electric hydrofoiling catamaran features carbon fibre foils designed to deliver a smooth, quiet, low-wake ride.

With a cruise speed of 25 knots and range of up to 50 nautical miles, the VS-9 consumes up to 90% less energy than a traditional vessel of similar size. The vessel can carry up to 10 passengers and operates in waves up to 0.75 metres.

The VS-9 is powered by a 105kWh battery system and Vessev’s custom VS-Drive motor. It supports DC fast charging up to 150kW and AC charging up to 22kW.

By lifting vessels above the water using hydrofoil technology, the system can operate in a wider range of conditions than conventional ferries, says Laakmann.

Kingston Village partnership

Kingston Village general manager Nicola Tristram says the ferry trial reflects planning for long-term liveability as the Kingston community expands. The development, owned by the Goodman Family, launched a year ago and sold 120 lots in record time.

“This trial will provide valuable insight into how lake transport could complement existing road and bus networks as well as the proposed cable car network for residents, commuters, and visitors,” Tristram says.

She says future ferries on Lake Wakatipu could potentially carry more passengers as the technology evolves, with real-world testing helping to ground those possibilities.

The trial will inform a broader feasibility study planned for later this year, examining the potential for regular hydrofoiling passenger services on the lake.

Vessev operates from Auckland and focuses on electric hydrofoiling technology rather than conventional marine propulsion. The company develops its vessels end-to-end, from hull and foils through to propulsion and control systems, drawing on experience from high-performance sailing, aerospace and consumer technology.

Laakmann says the trial will demonstrate that electric hydrofoiling could provide solutions for busy waterways globally.