Yinson GreenTech unveiled the region’s first fully electric hydrofoil vessel, the Hydroglyder, at Offshore Energy Week (OSEA) 2024, held at Marina Bay Sands on November 19. Designed for crew transfer, the Hydroglyder marks a significant notch towards sustainable marine innovation, empowering more environmentally friendly journeys in Singapore’s waters.
Developed in collaboration with Lift Ocean and Zeabuz, the Hydroglyder is engineered to redefine crew transfer and passenger transport. Capable of carrying up to 12 passengers at a maximum cruising speed of 25 knots, the vessel offers a sustainable alternative to fossil-fuel-powered boats, providing a greener, more comfortable, and quieter ride.
The Hydroglyder’s hydrofoil system lifts the hull above the water, significantly reducing drag and energy consumption. This innovative design results in up to 80% lower energy consumption and 90% lower operational costs than conventional vessels.
The Hydroglyder’s launch on the decarbonization-themed opening day underscores the hydrofoil technology’s transformative potential in advancing zero-emission innovation and shaping a sustainable maritime future. As Singapore’s first fully electric hydrofoil vessel, the Hydroglyder supports the Maritime and Port Authority of Singapore’s plans for all new harbor craft operating in the Port of Singapore to be fully electric, be capable of using B100 biofuel, or be compatible with net zero fuels from 2030.
Complementing the Hydroglyder launch, Yinson GreenTech’s marinEV introduced its Marine Digital Platform, reinforcing the critical link between electrification and digitalization in sustainable maritime operations. The platform enables easy booking, tracking, and reporting, enhancing user convenience with upcoming features such as route planning and optimization to provide a comprehensive approach to reducing emissions in short-sea shipping.
“At Yinson GreenTech, we believe the future of maritime transport lies at the convergence of electrification and digitalization,” said Eirik Barclay, Chief Executive Officer of Yinson GreenTech. “The Hydroglyder, in tandem with our Marine Digital Platform, delivers a comprehensive solution that not only reduces emissions but also redefines how businesses manage their operations, paving the way for a truly decarbonized future.”
“The Hydroglyder embodies our vision for a sustainable future in maritime transport,” said Jan-Viggo Johansen, Managing Director of marinEV. “Its energy-efficient design and zero-emission technology offer a practical, environmentally friendly solution to support businesses committed to greener marine operations – and, of course, provide a more comfortable voyage for our seafarers.”
As part of Yinson GreenTech’s portfolio of electric and autonomous vessels across land and sea, marinEV’s innovative Hydroglyder and Hydromover, Singapore’s first fully electric light cargo vessel, offer the region future-ready green transport solutions for passenger and cargo transportation across ASEAN waters and beyond.
Yinson GreenTech has secured funding from OCBC, a significant boost that will propel the development and deployment of this technology. This strategic financing partnership with OCBC supports our ambitious goals for the Hydroglyder and underscores the bank’s commitment to fostering groundbreaking advancements in sustainable technology.
“We’re proud to support our customer Yinson GreenTech in the development of their Hydroglyder, a game-changing all-electric crew transfer vessel that’s set to revolutionize the Singapore harbor craft sector. At OCBC, we are committed to partnering industry players who are driving sustainability efforts in the maritime ecosystem in alignment with MPA’s ambitious decarbonization targets, helping to create a more sustainable future for all,” said Mr. Linus Goh, Head of Global Commercial Banking, OCBC.
