The New Zealand-design and built electric hydrofoiling vessel is being evaluated as a future option for passenger and tourism transport on Lakes Wānaka and Wakatipu.
Joseph Mooney, Member of Parliament for Southland, has confirmed that a Vessev VS-9 electric hydrofoiling vessel is currently being trialled on Lakes Wānaka and Wakatipu as a potential passenger and tourism transport solution.
For those who have travelled onboard a VS-9, the appeal is immediate. During our own sea trial last year, the most striking moment came a few minutes after departure. There was no surge or slam. Instead, a subtle lift as the hull rose clear of the water and the wake faded behind us. The transition to flight was perceptible but subtle enough to barely notice.
Flying on water: our first ride – Vessev’s VS–9 foiling electric craft
Mooney described a similar impression.
“I was very impressed. One of these boats has been in use as a passenger ferry by Fullers in Auckland for over a year, and the prototype I went on has already sailed the equivalent of New York to London and back, plus a little more.”
The 9 metre VS-9 is built almost entirely from carbon fibre and cruises at around 25 knots once on its hydrofoils. Twin carbon lifting surfaces, controlled by an onboard computer, constantly adjust pitch and lift in real time. The skipper simply steers and manages speed. The system decides when to fly and when to settle back into displacement mode.
On Waitematā Harbour last year, ferry wakes and tidal slop failed to unsettle the ride. Even crossing behind a large commuter ferry, the vessel remained level and dry. The sensation was closer to gliding than boating.
For the Queenstown Lakes district, the trial carries broader significance. The region has ambitious renewable energy targets, aligned with the Government’s goal to double renewable generation nationwide.
“The Queenstown Lakes district has big goals to become a leading region in renewable energy use… it is great to experience technology like this which offers a clear pathway towards those goals via leading edge engineering from right here in New Zealand,” Mooney said.
With retractable foils, minimal moving parts and quiet electric propulsion, the VS-9 presents a compelling case for sensitive lake environments. The outcome of the trials will determine whether this Kiwi innovation becomes a regular sight above the waters of Wānaka and Wakatipu.
