‘Flying’ ferry to offer zero emissions travel in Northern Ireland
The ferry will produce no carbon emissions
![The new hydrofoil service will also create jobs in the area](https://static.independent.co.uk/2022/09/26/11/GettyImages-1228908192.jpg)
Support truly
independent journalism
Our mission is to deliver unbiased, fact-based reporting that holds power to account and exposes the truth.
Whether $5 or $50, every contribution counts.
Support us to deliver journalism without an agenda.
![Louise Thomas](https://static.independent.co.uk/static-assets/support-us/louise-thomas.png)
Louise Thomas
Editor
A new “flying” ferry which runs entirely on electricity is set to open between Belfast and Bangor and will launch in 2024.
The ferry produces zero carbon emissions and will begin operation by Condor Ferries on a pilot scheme from Belfast to Bangor, Co Down, in 2024.
The 150-seat ferry will use hydrofoils to glide across the surface of the water and produce minimal wake.
According to the firm which has created it, Artemis Technologies, it will “change the way cities around the world utilise and decarbonise their waterways,” The Irish Times reported.
The first ferry - named Zero - will initially create 125 jobs, expected to rise to 1,000 new roles in the next 10 years.
The ferry will also deliver up to 85 per cent fuel savings compared to traditional diesel ferries. It will have a top speed of 38 knots and will be powered by a unique electric propulsion system.
It is among several zero-emission vessels which are being developed by Artemis Technologies in Belfast.
The firm is a spin-off of the Artemis Racing team that competed in the America’s Cup, and its founder.
The ferry will also feature a “unique” high-speed collision avoidance system which will help the vessel avoid wildlife, helping it follow “an altered path away from sea life, wildlife, debris and other in-water objects that might otherwise be obscured from view.”
This isn’t the first sustainable ferry service. Dover has been reconnected with Boulogne in northern France by a sailing yacht that will run a service for pedestrians and cyclists in “an adventurous three- to four-hour crossing,” with zero carbon emissions.
Subscribe to Independent Premium to bookmark this article
Want to bookmark your favourite articles and stories to read or reference later? Start your Independent Premium subscription today.
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments