Swedish tech company Candela has announced the launch of its battery-powered hydrofoil ferry, the Candela P-12, in the Maldives.
Maldivian tour operator Ego Shuttle has placed an order for 10 Candela P-12 vessels, according to Electric Vehicles. The company plans to introduce the electric ferries next year, marking the first time such vessels will operate in Maldivian waters.
The ferries will be used to transport passengers between Velana International Airport and distant resort islands. Ego Shuttle will also establish a logistics hub and provide green job training for Maldivian staff to operate the vessels.
Candela’s P-12 model is 11.99 meters long and powered by a 378 kW battery. Each vessel accommodates up to 30 passengers and features air conditioning, Wi-Fi, entertainment screens, and charging ports.
The hydrofoil system lifts the vessel 1.5 meters above the water, reducing drag and energy consumption by up to 80 percent compared to diesel-powered boats. The ride is smoother and faster, reaching speeds of 46 kilometers per hour with minimal vibration, designed to reduce seasickness among tourists.
Diesel boats in the Maldives burn around five liters of fuel per mile, making electric alternatives significantly more sustainable. Candela’s technology aims to protect coral reefs by minimizing wake and underwater noise.
With this rollout, Ego Shuttle will operate the world’s largest fleet of electric hydrofoil vessels, while it also positions the Maldives as a global leader in sustainable marine transport. By introducing vessels that “fly” above the water using hydrofoil technology, the nation is not only reducing its carbon footprint but also setting a new standard for eco-friendly tourism in island nations.