The Swedish Maritime Administration (SMA) has ordered an EF-12 Pilot boat from Artemis Technologies. In August, Brabo, a leading provider of pilot and port services in Antwerp, ordered a similar foiling and fully electric pilot boat.

SMA is working actively to reduce its climate impact. From spring 2026, the Artemis EF-12 Pilot boat will be a part of the pilot boat fleet.

‘This is certainly a game changer when it comes to electric boats in terms of range and energy efficiency. It is one of many steps for us at SMA to reduce the use of fossil fuels in our operations,’ says Erik Eklund, Director General, SMA.

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85 per cent energy reduction

The energy consumption of the boat at cruising speed will be approximately 9 kWh per nautical mile, which is an 85 per cent energy reduction compared to conventional diesel-powered pilot boats operated by SMA.

Eklund: ‘With this contribution to our fleet, we estimate that the total emissions from our pilot transports can be reduced by about five per cent.’

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Fully electric with hydrofoils

The vessel, which is being built in Belfast, has an all-electric propulsion and is built from composite material. It has an overall length of 12.5 metres, a beam of 4.7 metres, a draught of 2.2 metres and a displacement of 11,700 kg.

Operating with zero emissions, hydrofoil technology lifts the vessel above the water, minimising drag, optimising energy use, and delivering a smoother, quieter ride – making it ideal for demanding offshore operations like pilotage. The hydrofoil technology also significantly reduces wake impact, minimising disturbance to marine ecosystems, shorelines and anchored vessels.

SMA is a governmental agency and enterprise within the transport sector and is responsible for maritime safety and availability. Services included are, for example, pilotage, fairway service, maritime and aeronautical search and rescue, maritime traffic information, icebreaking and hydrography.

Pilot boat for Port of Antwerp

In August, Artemis Technologies landed a similar order. The same vessel type will be delivered in summer 2025 to Brabo. This pilot boat will be deployed in the Port of Antwerp, Belgium.

Picture: The foiling electric pilot boat for the Swedish Maritime Administration (photo Artemis Technologies Ltd).

Also read: Brabo orders foiling electric pilot boat