AT’s first electric hybrid ferry nears arrival

Auckland Transport is preparing to welcome its first electric hybrid passenger ferry, with the new vessel receiving its Maritime New Zealand Certificate of Survey last week ahead of its journey from Whanganui to the Waitematā Harbour in the new year.

The 300-seat F360 300, to be operated by Fullers360 for Auckland Transport (AT), represents a major step in New Zealand’s transition toward cleaner, quieter and lower-emission marine transport. The ferry will depart from boatbuilders Q-West in Whanganui once a suitable weather window opens.

The vessel was designed by Incat Crowther in Australia, fitted with custom-built HamiltonJet propulsion systems, and constructed by Q-West. Fullers360 chief executive Mike Horne says strong collaboration has underpinned the project.

“Sea trials in Whanganui have demonstrated that the vessel surpasses expectations – capable of reaching over 30 knots operating in full electric mode and a top speed of 35 knots in hybrid mode, setting a new benchmark for clean ferry travel.

“We’ve worked on this project with a commitment to absolute precision, with the best people and some incredible Kiwi innovation that has supported the project’s success. It’s been a great collective effort from all involved who have helped both Fullers360 and AT reach this milestone.

“We’re excited for the next phase as we prepare the vessel for commissioning and public service. We’ve long championed the importance of lowering emissions on the harbour, and now we’re on the cusp of seeing this next-generation vessel on the Hauraki Gulf.”

Purpose-built for Auckland’s harbour conditions, the ferry will operate in full electric mode in key areas and use its hybrid systems for longer routes, reducing emissions, fuel use and noise in sensitive and high-traffic parts of the Waitematā.

AT programme director Nathan Cammock says the vessel represents a major shift in Auckland’s public-transport network.

“This ferry represents a major leap forward in Auckland’s shift to cleaner public transport on the Waitematā. We’re thrilled to be bringing world-class technology to our city and to be partnering with Fullers360, Q-West Boat Builders, and HamiltonJet to deliver a sustainable, new generation vessel – developed and built in NZ.”

Momentum for maritime decarbonisation

Fullers360 has long advocated for electrification through feasibility studies and low-emission trials.

Horne says the arrival of the F360 300 marks a turning point.

“This ferry embodies the future we’ve been working towards where innovation, sustainability, and world-class passenger experiences move hand-in-hand. Fullers360 has been vocal about the urgency of electrifying Auckland’s ferry fleet, and we see that vision becoming reality.”

Horne says AT’s commitment to commissioning low-emission vessels “shows what’s possible when public and private partners unite around a common purpose.”

“Auckland Transport’s investment in this technology shows what’s possible when public and private partners unite around a common purpose. Together, we’re reshaping the future of the Waitematā.”

The vessel will undergo crew training, commissioning and final testing before entering service on the city centre–Devonport route. A second electric-hybrid ferry is due to arrive in late 2026.