Candela launches “quietest ever” electric ferry
Candela's electric hydrofoil boat is designed to bring business class luxury to passenger ferriesCandela is rewriting the rulebook on passenger ferries, with its new electric vessel promising a “business class” interior, strong environmental credentials and what the company claims is “the quietest form of high-speed water travel” available.
The first Candela P-12 Business electric hydrofoil ferry was commissioned in Stockholm in March and is now being shipped to customers in Mumbai.
During commissioning trials in Stockholm, cabin noise levels were measured at just 63 to 64 dB, which is lower than modern passenger ferries, high-speed trains and commercial aircraft.
Related: Candela electric hydrofoil commissioned for Thai commute
The P-12 Business offers a cruise speed of 25 knots and a range of 40 nautical miles, figures that Candela says make it the fastest and longest-range electric hospitality transfer vessel in serial production.
Using a computer-aided hydrofoil system, the P-12 Business is designed to raise the hull above the waves to maximise comfort and reduce noise. This is supported by an acoustically insulated premium interior.
The tried and tested P-12 platform has been hailed as a game-changer for Stockholm’s public transport system, and the new Business variant takes things further with a luxury, sound-proofed cabin capable of carrying 20 passengers.
Each passenger gets a comfortable seat with USB ports and ample legroom, while thick carpeting, a roomy lavatory, Wi-Fi, luggage storage and a coffee bar contribute to the business class feel. Additionally, a Star Ceiling provides dynamic lighting during night trips.
According to Candela, the zero-emission P-12 Business uses up to 80 per cent less energy when foiling compared with conventional ships, reducing operational costs and improving sustainability. It also generates no large wakes and produces less underwater noise, making it suitable for sensitive marine environments.
The first P-12 Business vessels will operate in the Maldives, Saudi Arabia and Mumbai, offering an attractive alternative to existing diesel-powered ferries.
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