Artemis Technologies has launched the EF-12 Pilot, which it claims is the world’s first fully electric hydrofoil pilot boat, now undergoing trial runs before its planned deployment in regular port operations.
The Artemis EF-12 Pilot combines a battery-electric drive with hydrofoil technology for emission-free pilot transfer.
Key Features of the EF-12 Pilot
The vessel has been developed specifically for pilot transfer operations and is currently undergoing sea trials ahead of its entry into regular service.
The EF-12 Pilot combines a battery-electric powertrain with hydrofoil technology, which lifts the hull out of the water during transit, reducing hydrodynamic drag, lowering energy consumption while improving handling and reducing wake.
The boat will later be available in two variants: with one or two propulsion units.
The hydrofoil technology used in the EF-12 Pilot allows for a significant reduction in energy consumption, as the hull is lifted out of the water, minimizing the contact between the hull and the water, thereby reducing friction and drag.
Technology and Operational Testing
According to Artemis Technologies, the vessel is based on the company’s proprietary eFoiler platform, which has accumulated more than four years of real-world operational testing.
An active flight control system is designed to maintain stable performance across a range of weather and sea conditions.
Artemis has also tailored the deck layout to meet the specific operational and safety requirements of pilot transfer services.
The company expects demand for zero-emission specialist vessels in port operations to grow in the coming years.
Customers that have already ordered the EF-12 Pilot include Brabo in Belgium, the Swedish Maritime Administration, Noatum Maritime in Abu Dhabi and the Port of Tyne in the United Kingdom.
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The introduction of the EF-12 Pilot is a significant step towards reducing emissions in the maritime industry, as it provides a zero-emission alternative for pilot transfer operations, which are a critical component of port operations.
As the company expands its portfolio of electric hydrofoil vessels, it’s likely that we’ll see more widespread adoption of this technology in the maritime industry, potentially leading to significant reductions in emissions and operating costs.
In addition to pilot transfer boats, Artemis Technologies offers electric workboats and passenger ferries aimed at helping ports, maritime operators and shipping companies reduce emissions and advance their decarbonisation strategies.
Real-World Deployment and Testing
Artemis Technologies’ hydrofoil technology is already being deployed in operational environments.
Since spring 2025, the Port of Rotterdam Authority has been testing a fully electric EF-12 Workboat in day-to-day port operations.
The trial is assessing the vessel’s handling characteristics, reliability and suitability for routine maritime tasks.
The results are expected to support decisions on the future electrification of the port authority’s fleet.
The testing of the EF-12 Workboat is providing valuable insights into the performance and capabilities of electric hydrofoil vessels in real-world operational environments, which will inform the development of future vessels and the expansion of electric hydrofoil technology in the maritime industry.
For more information on Artemis Technologies and their electric hydrofoil vessels, visit their website at artemistechnologies.co.uk.
The development and deployment of electric hydrofoil vessels like the EF-12 Pilot and EF-12 Workboat demonstrate the potential for innovation and technological advancement in the maritime industry, and highlight the importance of investing in research and development to reduce emissions and improve operational efficiency.