Chartwell Marine trials foiling fast ferry TriFoiler demonstrator  

Vessel designer Chartwell Marine has launched its electric foiling high-speed trimaran demonstrator.

The vessel has now begun sea trials on Southampton water, which will run until the end of March. 

Created in collaboration with Solent University and Newcastle Marine Services, the vessel aims to test a simpler, cost-effective, zero-emission foiling ferry concept.

"We believe that the future of pure-electric commercial vessels lies in innovative, low-drag hull forms, with or without the assistance of foils. However, first and foremost, service reliability must be the priority," said  Chartwell Marine MD Andy Page.

The month-long sea trial will provide data on the vessel’s handling, efficiency, and performance across various sea and weather conditions. Designed to evaluate the practical capabilities of electric-powered foiling ferries and the high-efficiency trimaran concept, the trials will determine the TriFoiler’s suitability for commercial operations – one that has the potential to transform short coastal, high-traffic passenger routes, such as the Solent.

Featuring a lightweight trimaran hull, a fixed main foil, and actuating foiling rudder, this design reduces energy consumption and power demand while maintaining speed. The energy-efficient layout also places the batteries in the sponsons, away from passenger areas, improving safety and adding usable space onboard.

"Given that electric power has a lower energy density compared to traditional fuels, minimising energy usage is crucial for achieving optimal results. Finding the balance between efficiency and reliability is key."

As part of CMDC3, the findings from the trial will be shared at the end of April, informing the next stage of development, moving towards a full-scale, 24-m, 40-passenger foiling ferry capable of speeds up to 28 knots. The vessel could eventually be used for commercial operations on Southampton water, and future versions sold into the wider fast ferry market, both in the UK and abroad.

According to the company, the TriFoiler demonstrator vessel -- delivered on-time and within budget -- got underway with the build in September 2024.

The builder is Designcraft Ltd, a Southampton-based specialist in composite vessel construction. A GB£1.86M UK Government grant – awarded under the Clean Maritime Demonstration Competition Round 3 (CMDC3) – was used to develop and build a scaled demonstrator vessel.

The Foiling Fast Ferry TriFoiler Demonstrator is funded through the UK SHORE (Shipping Office for Reducing Emissions) programme, a Department for Transport (DfT) initiative delivered by Innovate UK, part of UK Research and Innovation (UKRI).