At higher speeds, the hull of a hydrofoil is ‘lifted’ out of the water, reducing drag and wave formation. Credit: IJsbreker TV.

The Port of Rotterdam Authority has launched a fully electric hydrofoil patrol vessel, an Artemis EF-12 Workboat named RPA ZERO, as part of a pilot scheme.

This initiative is a step towards the Authority’s fleet renewal programme aimed at enhancing sustainability and operational efficiency.

The pilot scheme, which will run until November 2025, involves testing to evaluate the hydrofoil vessel’s performance, reliability, and overall suitability for the Harbour Master’s Division.

These tests will also examine the practicality of electric power for the vessel, including charging infrastructure and energy management.

The Fleet Renewal and Sustainability Programme team will work closely with the vessel’s crew and asset managers to thoroughly assess the electric hydrofoil’s capabilities.

The RPA ZERO vessel’s hydrofoil technology enables it to rise above the water’s surface, minimising drag and wave impact, which in turn enhances its energy efficiency.

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The Port of Rotterdam Authority leased the vessel from Artemis Technologies, which will provide valuable insights into the adaptability and reliability of hydrofoil vessels for maritime operations.

Artemis Technologies CEO Iain Percy said: “Collaboration with the Port of Rotterdam Authority is an exciting opportunity to demonstrate how our Artemis EF-12 Workboat can contribute to decarbonising port operations.

“We are glad to be supporting one of the most integral ports in all of Europe with its efforts to achieve the ambitious sustainability goals it has set, whilst maintaining the highest of safety and efficiency standards.”

Over the next 12 years, the Port of Rotterdam Authority will see its current vessels reach the end of their technical service life.

The Authority is taking this opportunity to not only renew its fleet but also to drive sustainability efforts and streamline maintenance processes.

The executive board of the Port of Rotterdam Authority is committed to making the new fleet as emission-free as possible, aligning with the goal of a clean and sustainable port.

The new vessels are expected to be operational around the clock to maintain a safe and efficient port environment.

Harbour Master’s Division manager of maritime and environmental safety Herman Verweij said: “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.

“Consider the minimal impact of wave action and the exceptional stability, even in rough waters. We are therefore enthusiastic about exploring whether and how electric hydrofoils can complement our range of deployable resources.”

The Port of Rotterdam has also recently completed an ammonia bunkering pilot involving the transfer of 800m³ of liquid ammonia at -33°C between two vessels.

The pilot programme was conducted to prepare for the anticipated arrival of ships using ammonia as a bunker fuel.

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