An incredible new boat is set to transform commuters’ journeys in a major UK city.
The Orbit Clipper has been described as a “groundbreaking advancement” by its creators, who also say that it will provide an “accessible, green and fast” route across the River Thames seven days a week.
The ferry will enable more than 20,000 Londoners and visitors to travel every weekday, bosses add.
The clipper will be the UK’s first fully electric zero-emission cross-river passenger ferry.
It will launch in March 2025, and operate between London’s Canary Wharf on the north side of the Thames and Rotherhithe in the south.
The vessel will cross the river every 10 minutes from each side on weekdays and every 15 minutes at weekends.
The 150-passenger ferry, will have capacity for 100 bicycles, and features a roll-on/roll-off design that enables automated docking on both sides.
This innovation enhances accessibility, reduces journey times, and increases capacity for both foot and cycle passengers, officials say.
The clipper was designed by Aus Ships Group, and will measure 25.2 metres in overall length.
It will also feature a moulded depth of 2.3 metres, the Royal Institution of Naval Architects writes.
Sean Collins, co-founder and CEO of Uber Boat by Thames Clippers, said, “It’s a real British success story. All of our new boats are proudly built in the UK using the latest green technology at Wight Shipyard Co on the Isle of Wight.
“This new vessel will launch within our 25th year of operation and it reaffirms our investment in both the local Isle of Wight economy and in London.
“This zero-emission solution also comes after the recent launch of our third hybrid boat – Mars Clipper – into our main River Bus fleet and is the next step on our journey to advancing sustainable maritime technology.
“The Thames is the lifeblood of our great capital and it’s our ambition to continue to push for further progression along the river – we’re calling upon London’s maritime businesses and government bodies to collaborate and ensure a greener future for all.”