Port of Tyne Invests in UK’s First Electric Foiling Tug Boat

The Port of Tyne has made waves with the announcement that it will purchase the UK’s first fully electric foiling pilot boat. The pilot boat will be designed and built by Artemis Technologies and will allow the Port of Tyne to offer a ‘net zero pilotage service’. 

The Artemis EF-12 Pilot will feature cutting-edge eFoiler® technology ensuring the vessel has zero emissions. It is expected to be delivered and operational by the end of 2025 and will help the Port of Tyne align with the Government’s Maritime 2050 strategy which is seeking drastic reductions in emissions of greenhouse gases from the UK’s shipping sector. 

Commenting on the new vessel, Matt Beeton, CEO at the Port of Tyne, said: 

“Adding the EF-12 Pilot to the Port’s fleet is a significant milestone not just for the Port of Tyne, but for the maritime sector as a whole. As the first UK port to adopt this groundbreaking technology, we’re not only improving standards of safety and efficiency but also delivering a more sustainable operation in support of the Government’s Maritime 2050 strategy. Together, we’re shaping a cleaner, smarter future for ports across the UK”.

Dr Iain Percy OBE, CEO of Artemis Technologies echoed Beeton’s comments, saying: 

“We are delighted to partner with the Port of Tyne, which will see the UK’s first deployment of a fully electric foiling pilot boat. The collaboration showcases the potential of maritime innovation and technology to meet the demands of a cleaner maritime future. 

At Artemis Technologies, we are committed to developing high-performance, zero-emission solutions, and this partnership is a testament to what’s possible when industry leaders share a vision for transformation”.

Once operational, the vessel will be used to transfer pilots onto the ships delivering essential goods and cargoes to the region. 

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