First Hybrid High-Speed Passenger Ferry Marks a Green Milestone in UK Transportation

Commencing today, individuals exploring London and those commuting can embark on more environmentally conscious journeys.

The inauguration of Earth Clipper, the inaugural hybrid high-speed passenger ferry in Europe, constructed in adherence to the High-Speed Craft Code, marks a groundbreaking development. This vessel, part of the Uber Boat by Thames Clippers fleet, represents the first of three new ferries operating with no emissions in Central London.

Pioneering passenger boat design, Earth Clipper yields an approximately 90 percent reduction in CO2e when compared to conventional marine diesel operation. As the 18th high-speed catamaran in the Uber Boat by Thames Clippers fleet, it significantly enhances the business's sustainability credentials and establishes a robust foundation for the broader marine sector.

The hybrid vessel will exclusively rely on battery power while transporting commuters and sightseers within the Central Zone, spanning from Tower to Battersea Power Station piers. It will recharge using biofuel power outside central London, contributing to a 16.5 percent reduction in emissions compared to running solely on biofuel along the entire route.

In addition to being the business's inaugural hybrid vessel, Earth Clipper boasts the title of the largest, measuring 40m in length – almost the equivalent of two tennis courts end to end – and accommodating up to 230 passengers. Engineered for an optimal passenger experience, the cabin features expansive windows offering panoramic views of the Thames and includes the beloved onboard café service.

Sean Collins, co-founder, and CEO of Uber Boat by Thames Clippers, expresses the significance of this milestone, stating:

“This is a momentous day for us, and something we’ve been working towards for some time. Being able to offer greener transport through the capital is no small feat but something we’re incredibly passionate about at Uber Boat by Thames Clippers.”

“We are committed to not only utilising the most advanced technology to drive down our carbon footprint, but also to playing our part in breaking new ground to advance that technology as much as we can. The new boats push the boundaries in catamaran design to deliver a future-friendly option that can be made even greener as and when technology allows. We’re excited to announce too, that Earth Clipper will be joined by two sister vessels; Celestial and Mars Clipper will also join the fleet this year as we work towards our targets of reducing carbon emissions by 50 per cent by 2030 and achieving net zero by 2040 for the overall business.”

The commitment extends beyond Earth Clipper, as the company plans to introduce hybrid systems or fully electrified and zero-emission technology with new vessels. The forthcoming vessels, Celestial and Mars Clipper, will join Earth Clipper in the fleet, aligning with the business's targets of a 50 percent reduction in carbon emissions by 2030 and achieving net-zero by 2040.

Beyond the hybrid ferries, plans are underway to launch London’s first fully electric Zero Emission Cross River Ferry between Canary Wharf and Rotherhithe by spring 2025. This initiative, the first of its kind in the UK, is part of a broader plan involving a £70 million investment in new fleet by 2030.

Sean Collins emphasizes the company's commitment to the river Thames and surrounding communities, with over two decades of innovation and a dedication to sustainable growth. Earth Clipper, constructed at Wight Shipyard Co in East Cowes, Isle of Wight, symbolizes a transformative investment, involving 65 individuals and 14 apprentices, positively impacting the local economy.

As Uber Boat by Thames Clippers enters its 24th year of operation, it anticipates serving over 5 million commuters and visitors in 2023 alone, with routes extending from Barking Riverside to Putney, underscoring its commitment to sustainable and efficient river transportation.

Source: traveldailynews.com