Is This Electric Boat Actually Flying?

Hustler Words – When departing from a Brooklyn marina aboard the VS-9, the sensation isn’t quite what one might expect from a traditional vessel. As the electric ferry accelerates, the jarring bumps and splashes typical of a 30-foot boat vanish, replaced by a sensation more akin to a high-performance sports car gliding over asphalt. According to Vessev co-founder and CEO Eric Laakmann, the transition from sailing to "flying" is already a reality.

The secret to this smooth, near-aerial experience lies beneath the waterline. While the VS-9 resembles a standard catamaran on the surface, it utilizes advanced hydrofoil technology. These wing-like structures, managed by computer-controlled underwater flaps, lift the hull clear of the water. This design significantly reduces drag, which is a critical advantage for electric propulsion where maximizing every kilowatt-hour of battery life is essential for range and efficiency.

Vessev is taking a vertically integrated approach to its engineering. While they source commoditized battery technology externally, they have brought the production of their electric motors in-house to maintain strict cost controls. The VS-9 features a sophisticated foil setup where the front foil handles the majority of the lift, while the rear foil—which also houses the motor—provides the remaining 20%.

However, this "flying" capability comes with specific environmental parameters. The VS-9 is optimized for lakes, rivers, and bays rather than the turbulent open ocean. The technology performs best when waves remain below approximately 2.5 feet; once waves exceed this height, they strike the hull, disrupting the stability and efficiency that makes hydrofoiling so effective.

Having recently secured $19 million in Series A funding, Vessev is eyeing a dual-market strategy. Their primary goal is to revolutionize urban mass transit, providing a low-infrastructure solution for cities like New York to move commuters across waterways efficiently. Simultaneously, the company is targeting the luxury sector, appealing to tour operators and high-net-worth individuals looking for cutting-edge maritime technology.

Looking ahead, Vessev’s ambitions extend beyond just manufacturing complete vessels. Laakmann has indicated that the company may eventually pivot toward producing electric hydrofoil kits, a move that would allow other shipbuilders to integrate their high-efficiency flight technology into a wide variety of custom boat designs.