New Zealand marine technology innovator Vessev is expanding into the Australian market with the Enautic Group set to introduce Vessev’s electric hydrofoiling passenger vessels to Western Australia. They are powered by an underwater propulsion system using neodymium permanent magnet motors.
Several Vessev VS–9 vessels have been reserved and will operate on Perth’s Swan River, one of Australia’s most underutilized transport corridors. The first vessels are expected to be delivered in early 2027. They will initially operate through Enautic’s AquaFlights brand which offers hydrofoiling experiences including e-foil scooter and Waveflyer boat hire. The focus for the VS–9s will be on premium tourism experiences including wine cruises, twilight sailings and private charters, with plans to introduce commuter routes in the future.
The VS–9 is a nine-meter electric hydrofoiling catamaran that lifts above the water on carbon fibre foils,
producing minimal wake and significantly reducing environmental impact. Its all-electric propulsion and
hydrofoiling technology enables up to 90% lower energy consumption compared with traditional vessels,
while delivering a smooth and quiet passenger experience.
Where other large commercial ferries are typically restricted to speeds of 5–8 knots along much of the river, the VS–9 can cruise at 25 knots while producing virtually no wake. This enables dramatically faster travel times and opens the door to a new model of water-based commuter and tourism transport.
Vessev CEO and co-founder Eric Laakmann said the Australian project demonstrates growing global momentum for electric hydrofoiling. “We’re seeing cities around the world rediscovering their waterways because of what electric hydrofoiling unlocks,” Laakmann said. “Australia is a natural fit, and businesses like the Enautic Group are leading that shift.”
Vessev sits at the intersection of boatbuilding and applied technology, designing and building electric hydrofoiling vessels in Auckland. The company develops its vessels end to end, from hulls and foils through to propulsion and control systems, keeping the work tightly integrated. The team brings together experts with backgrounds from the America’s Cup, Rocket Lab, Apple and Tesla to deliver an entirely new experience on the water. Two Vessev VS-9s have together logged close to 10,000 nautical miles.
“Hydrofoiling is what makes electric water transport genuinely viable. It delivers the speed, range and sustainability you need without compromise,” Portlock said. “The VS–9 is exactly the type of vessel that makes this model possible. Starting with premium tourism allows people to experience the technology first-hand while laying the groundwork for a future where electric hydrofoiling becomes one of the fastest and most sustainable ways to move around the city.”
he Enautic Group is also a developer of e-hydrofoil craft, now advancing into structured manufacturing of its flagship WaveFlyer VOLARÉ from early-run builds into a professional production line via a recent agreement with a manufacturing partner. The arrangement marks a transition from R&D and prototyping toward a disciplined, high-output pathway to market for the company.
For more info, see www.vessev.com, and www.enautic.group.
