A pioneering electric hydrofoil ferry has arrived in Orkney to begin sea trials, offering a glimpse of a cleaner, faster, and more reliable future for Scotland’s island transport—just as communities elsewhere continue to grapple with persistent ferry disruptions and delays.
The Artemis EF-12 Workboat XL, named Zevi 1, is the first of its kind to operate in Scottish waters. Built in Belfast by Artemis Technologies, the 12-metre vessel will undergo a three-year trial as part of the Electric Orkney project, connecting Kirkwall with Shapinsay, Egilsay, Wyre, and Rousay on four daily rotations. If successful, the ferry could begin carrying passengers later this summer.
“This is a trial, and we need to determine how effectively this new technology functions in our waters,” said Melissa Thomson, Orkney Islands councillor and chair of Orkney Ferries. “We are optimistic that this could revolutionize travel between the islands if everything goes smoothly.”
The Artemis EF-12 Workboat XL stands out for its advanced hydrofoil technology, which lifts the hull above the water, reducing drag and enabling higher speeds while using less energy. Powered entirely by electricity through the patented Artemis eFoiler® system, the vessel produces zero emissions in operation, operates quietly, and generates minimal wake—benefits that are particularly important for both the environment and passenger comfort.
The vessel can carry up to 12 passengers and two crew, and is equipped with a state-of-the-art flight control system for enhanced stability, even in Orkney’s notoriously challenging waters. A new ultra-fast charger at Kirkwall harbor will recharge the ferry’s batteries in under 60 minutes, supporting efficient turnaround between journeys.
“Bringing the Artemis EF-12 Workboat XL to the islands supports Electric Orkney’s ongoing goal of decarbonising transport whilst improving the quality of service for residents and visitors,” said Dr Iain Percy, CEO of Artemis Technologies.
A larger 24-metre, 50-passenger hydrofoil vessel is expected to join the fleet later this year, further expanding the trial’s scope and potential impact.
The arrival of the electric hydrofoil comes as Scotland’s west coast ferry network, operated by Caledonian MacBrayne (CalMac), faces mounting criticism over ageing vessels, chronic delays, and spiralling costs. The much-delayed dual-fuel ferry MV Glen Rosa, for example, is now expected to be delivered almost eight years late, with costs for two new ships ballooning to over £460 million—more than four times the original budget.
Testing the waters?
The Artemis hydrofoil’s trial is more than a technical experiment—it could be seen as a test case for the future of Scottish island transport. The ability to deliver zero-emission, high-speed, and reliable ferry service could help address both climate goals and the urgent need for modern, dependable links between Scotland’s islands.
Finance Secretary Shona Robison has called the vessel’s arrival “an important landmark in the Electric Orkney project, which aims to demonstrate the benefits of electric-powered hydrofoil workboats and passenger ferries to service some of the inter-isle routes in Orkney, supporting decarbonisation and island connectivity.”
The Scottish Government has committed £3 million to support the Zevi trial and is working with Orkney Islands Council on a broader ferry replacement programme, with plans to introduce eight new vessels in total.
As the hydrofoil begins its trials, all eyes will be on Orkney to see whether this innovative technology can deliver where traditional approaches have struggled, potentially setting a new course for Scotland’s maritime future.
