The Port of Rotterdam Authority has introduced its first fully electric hydrofoil patrol vessel as part of a pilot project under its fleet renewal programme.
The new vessel, Artemis EF-12 Workboat, features cutting-edge hydrofoil technology and has been named RPA ZERO, a nod to its zero-emissions operation.
As it gains speed, the vessel’s hull rises above the water, reducing resistance and wave impact while improving energy efficiency, a futuristic design with real-world environmental benefits, describes the port authority.
The trial will determine whether hydrofoil technology is suitable for the Harbour Master’s Division’s daily operations.
The Authority’s executive board has made clear its ambition: to build a fleet that is as emission-free as possible, ensuring vessels can operate 24/7 to maintain a clean, safe, and efficient port environment.
Herman Verweij, Manager of Maritime and Environmental Safety at the Harbour Master’s Division, emphasised the importance of combining sustainability with operational readiness, saying that this vessel gives the chance to explore modern, environmentally responsible solutions without compromising on performance.
The pilot, which runs through November 2025, will evaluate how the hydrofoil performs in real-world conditions. Key areas of assessment include sailing behaviour, reliability, energy efficiency, charging logistics, and overall suitability for the Harbour Master’s operational needs.
The Fleet Renewal and Sustainability Programme team will lead the evaluation in collaboration with crew and asset managers.
The vessel has been leased from Belfast-based Artemis Technologies, a company at the forefront of electric hydrofoil innovation.
