World's Largest Electric Ferry

⚙️TRAINING PROGRAM

If you happen to be in British Columbia, ACEL has announced a marine electric technician training program (with potential support from the provincial government).

The program is titled ‘Advanced Electric Propulsion Certification’ and has 4 levels of training, varying in hours, from 10 - 18, to complete (2 virtual sessions, 2 in person sessions).

Here is a link to more information.

⚓️ SOCIAL MEDIA POST OF THE WEEK

Electric outboard powered boat, in Vernon British Columbia. Slick looking ride!

🏄🏾‍♂️E-FOIL LAUNCH!

Hydroflyer has launched the Sport Board, a new eFoil designed for riders who want more speed, control, and maneuverability on the water. Built entirely from carbon fiber, including the board, mast, and handlebars, it offers a lighter, stronger structure optimized for aggressive riding. At 5’5”, the compact frame supports tight turns, sharp carving, and aerial moves, especially when paired with a smaller foil. Optional foot hooks give advanced riders the ability to go fully inverted off waves.

The design drops the V-nose used in the Cruiser model, trading some water-piercing capability for faster response and better visibility below. Its minimal swing weight and clean profile make the Sport Board more responsive. The battery is a 2.45 kWh lithium-ion pack, offering between 1.5 and 3 hours of use, depending on the intensity of the ride. The board can reach speeds near 45 km/h (27 mph) and can be used with or without the removable handlebars.

The full carbon build and modular components allow for customization and easy maintenance. With 129 litres of volume, the board suits smaller or more experienced riders looking to maximize performance in smaller spaces.

Checkout their launch video here:

⚙️WORLD’S LARGEST ELECTRIC FERRY

The world’s largest battery-powered ship has launched from Hobart, Tasmania, setting a new global benchmark for zero-emission maritime transport. Built by Incat Tasmania, the vessel is destined for service with South American ferry operator Buquebus. Once operational, it will carry passengers and vehicles across the Río de la Plata between Buenos Aires, Argentina, and Montevideo, Uruguay.

At 130 meters in length, the vessel is a lightweight aluminum catamaran engineered for high-speed transit. It can carry up to 2,100 passengers and 225 vehicles. The propulsion system is fully electric, powered by an onboard energy storage system with over 40 megawatt-hours (MWh) of lithium-ion battery capacity, supplied by Corvus Energy. This makes it the largest marine battery installation in the world by energy capacity.

The battery system, weighing around 400 tonnes, will drive eight electric waterjets. These are powered by permanent magnet electric motors, chosen for efficiency and compactness. The ferry is expected to cruise at around 25 knots (46 km/h), with testing underway to determine peak operating performance under full load.

The vessel’s power management system is designed to balance propulsion with hotel loads, including lighting, HVAC, navigation systems, and an expansive 2,300 m² retail deck—reportedly the largest duty-free shopping area on any ferry.

Charging will be performed using a custom-designed shoreside infrastructure, expected to enable full recharge in port within a few hours, depending on local grid capacity.

Incat’s design emphasizes both hydrodynamic efficiency and reduced lifecycle maintenance. The catamaran hull minimizes drag while supporting high-speed operation, and the aluminum structure helps offset the battery system’s weight. The entire vessel is being classified by DNV and built to high-speed craft safety standards.

The ferry is not yet in commercial operation but has completed initial sea trials on the Derwent River. Upon delivery to Buquebus later this year, it will begin passenger and vehicle transport services, replacing a diesel-powered catamaran currently in use on the same route.

This launch demonstrates that battery-powered vessels are viable at a commercial scale—not only for short commuter routes but also for longer, high-volume crossings. With tightening emissions regulations and rising fuel costs, battery-electric ferries are gaining interest from operators worldwide. Incat has confirmed that further vessels are being considered, and future variants may incorporate hydrogen or hybrid-electric designs.