Candela unveils quietest high-speed ferry

Swedish electric vessel manufacturer Candela has launched what it claims is the quietest high-speed water transport ever created, with the first P-12 Business vessel commissioned in Stockholm before being shipped to customers in Mumbai.

The hydrofoil ferry uses computer-controlled underwater wings to lift the hull above the waves, eliminating the noise and motion typically associated with high-speed water travel. During commissioning trials, cabin noise levels measured just 63-64 decibels (dB) during cruise – significantly quieter than conventional speedboats, which typically operate at 85-95 dB.

“The P-12 Business experience merges tech and interior craftsmanship — we’ve engineered comfort into the ride itself. It is more akin to sitting in a quiet lounge than being on a fast vessel,” says Gustav Hasselskog, Candela’s chief executive and founder.

The 16 to 20-passenger vessel cruises at 25 knots with a range of 40 nautical miles, making it what Candela describes as the fastest and longest-range electric hospitality transfer vessel in serial production.

Premium interior targets luxury market

The P-12 Business features a sound-proofed interior with thick carpets, comfortable seating, air conditioning, Wi-Fi, and a coffee bar. Passengers board via a wide, stabilised adjustable ramp that accommodates wheelchairs and strollers, while every seat includes built-in USB-C charging ports.

“It is a surreal experience to sip coffee, converse with fellow passengers, and take in the views while travelling at 25 knots over the waves—without hearing or feeling them,” Hasselskog says.

The vessel targets the hospitality water transfer market, particularly in destinations like the Maldives, Caribbean, Southeast Asia, and Middle East, where tourists currently rely on noisy, fuel-intensive speedboats for resort transfers.

Environmental benefits drive adoption

When foiling, the P-12 Business uses up to 80% less energy than conventional vessels, according to Candela. The zero-emission vessel generates virtually no wake and significantly reduces underwater noise, which the company says benefits sensitive marine environments including coral reefs and coastal ecosystems.

The first P-12 Business vessels will operate in the Maldives, Saudi Arabia, and Mumbai, including routes from Gateway of India to Navi Mumbai’s new airport.

While the P-12 Business is initially targeting international resort and premium transfer markets, the hydrofoil technology could have applications for New Zealand’s ferry networks, particularly for routes requiring quiet operation near marine sanctuaries or in noise-sensitive urban harbours like Auckland’s Waitematā.

Candela’s P-12 platform is already in use for public transport in Stockholm, suggesting the technology has moved beyond prototype stage into commercial operation.