Description:

Uplifting Journeys: Reimagining Marine Transport

Traditional marine transport has a problem that needs solving: it’s polluting, inefficient, and noisy. While electric mobility has transformed transport on land, progress on the water has lagged behind, held back by the unique drag and range constraints of the ocean.

From the beginning, we knew electric hydrofoiling was the key to changing that. Lifting the hull above the water dramatically reduces drag, enabling truly viable electric propulsion. But performance alone wouldn’t be enough. If we wanted operators and passengers to choose this new path, it had to offer something more. A vessel that was efficient, yes, but also elegant and commercially viable.

So we set out to build something entirely new. A vessel that could redefine what marine transport looks and feels like. That ambition led us to assemble a world-class team spanning naval architecture, industrial design, and engineering. All focused on a single goal: creating a platform for change.

A Design Process Grounded in Purpose

Our design process was anchored in a belief that sustainable transport shouldn’t be a compromise. It should be better in every way, from energy use and cost to experience and longevity.

That’s why industrial designer Alain Brideson and our naval architects worked side by side from day one. Every surface, curve, and angle was designed with intention, optimising hydrodynamics without sacrificing form. The tapered cabin, sculpted hull, and clean trailing edges are all shaped by this interplay between performance and beauty.

But this wasn’t just an aesthetic exercise. Our engineers – from electrical to control systems – worked hand in hand to make the VS–9 fly. And throughout, our philosophy remained clear: build it right, and build it to last. We chose LFP batteries for their safety and ethical sourcing. Bearings in the propulsion system are rated for 200,000 hours. Every detail was selected for durability and integrity.

The Final Result: Uplifting People and the Planet

The VS–9 is a visual and functional departure from the norm. Built entirely from carbon fibre, it’s strong, lightweight, and sculpted for aerodynamic and hydrodynamic efficiency. The full standing-height cabin is framed by sweeping glass windows, opening the space to light and panoramic views. Inside, the open layout, intuitive helm, and longitudinal seating create a sense of calm, connection, and freedom.

It’s more than just clean transport, it’s a cleaner experience. One that invites people to rethink what marine travel should be.

Technically, it combines zero-emissions hydrofoiling with safe battery technology and intelligent flight control, delivering up to 90% lower operating costs. It meets DNV-GL standards and is already in commercial operation in Auckland.

To date, our first vessel, Kermadec, has travelled over 3,700 nautical miles – more than a transatlantic crossing. It’s saved 18.5 tonnes of C0₂ and reduced operating costs by 94%.

And that’s just one boat.

It’s a scalable, durable, and elegant solution to a modern maritime problem: how do we go faster, cleaner, and cheaper, without destroying the ocean?

The answer is to rise above it.