Northern Ireland company Artemis Technologies has unveiled the design of its Artemis EF-12 Pilot, which combines electric propulsion with hydrofoil technology to enhance sustainability, efficiency and safety in pilotage operations.
With a top speed of 32 knots and a foiling range of 55 nautical miles, the 100% electric Artemis EF-12 Pilot is said to be testament to Artemis Technology’s strong commitment to environmental sustainability and the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions in the maritime industry.
The Artemis EF-12 Pilot was developed following global interest from pilot boat operators, and will deliver crew comfort and stability, while meeting the specific requirements unique to this challenging operation.
The vessel’s ability to actively stabilise roll, pitch, and heave during the transfer of pilots reduces the risks associated with this critical but potentially hazardous operation. The project was supported by the UK Department for Transport’s Clean Maritime Demonstration Competition (CMDC), with Artemis Technologies working closely in partnership with Belfast Harbour on a feasibility study regarding the potential of the Artemis eFoiler technology to decarbonise global pilot boat operations.
Dr Iain Percy, CEO Artemis Technologies, said: “We are incredibly excited to introduce the Artemis EF-12 Pilot to the maritime industry. This innovative vessel is a testament to our commitment to sustainability and efficiency in maritime transportation. We believe the Artemis eFoiler pilot boat will set new standards for pilotage operations globally. During the 8-month feasibility study we undertook real world data collection and analysis of Belfast Harbour’s pilot operations allowing us to understand typical pilot vessel duty cycles and operational requirements. An exact virtual copy of Belfast Harbour’s existing pilot vessel was created and input into our Digital Twin toolchain allowing a virtual study comparing the Artemis EF-12 Pilot design against this real-world operational pilot vessel. Belfast Harbour stakeholders were involved throughout the whole process and validated the findings of the study through virtual design assessments, reviews of results, and virtual trials driving the EF-12 Pilot in our full-motion platform simulator.”
Analysis of the data collected during research and testing has indicated that the Artemis EF-12 Pilot can deliver significant cost savings over the expected lifespan of a vessel, prevent the release of GHG emissions, and reduce the relative motions between pilot vessel and ship during pilot transfer, when compared to the current vessels working in this sector of the ports’ industry.
Jamie Faulkner, Deputy Harbour Master, Belfast Harbour, said: “The feasibility study allowed us to thoroughly examine the operation of our pilot boats, encompassing aspects such as fuel consumption, service and maintenance costs, and the environmental impact. It also enabled me to spend time on Artemis’ prototype vessel, Pioneer of Belfast. Whilst it was a great experience to be gliding through the port at 25 knots with virtually no wake, what was most important for us was the reduction in both noise and vibration, as well as improved stability at sea. It’s been great to have the opportunity to collaborate closely with the team at Artemis Technologies, they have grasped the essential elements of pilot boat operations, when working on the design of the Artemis EF-12 Pilot.”
