Vessev has officially unveiled its latest model, the VS–9 Skye, a fully electric hydrofoiling day boat.
The Skye builds on the design of Vessev’s VS–9 platform, which has logged over 7,000 nautical miles of operation.
The vessel has a catamaran hull that can accommodate up to ten passengers, with the deck divided into three zones: a daybed midship, bowrider seating at the front, and an aft lounging area.
The hull itself is crafted from carbon fibre composite for lightweight performance with structural rigidity.
And while the Skye is tailored for the luxury market, the platform is built to commercial standards and certified to DNV and MNZ requirements.
Every detail has been considered to enhance fun and freedom on the water.
Paul Flett
“With the Skye, we’ve reimagined what a day boat can be,” said Eric Laakmann, co-founder and CEO of Vessev.
“It’s not just about going electric, it’s about creating a better experience for boaters. We want to give them something truly innovative that’s going to turn heads.”
The VS-9 Skye uses hydrofoils to lift the vessel above the water, reducing drag and delivering a smooth ride, even in rough weather.
When the foils are fully deployed for flight, the vessel draws 1.5 metres, with the hydrofoiling system increasing speed and improving seakeeping – the Skye is capable of foiling in waves up to 0.75 meters high (approximately 2.5 feet).
Fully retractable foils
“It’s a boat that everyone can enjoy more, because it’s just that much more comfortable,” said Laakmann.
Vessev has also manufactured the foils to be fully retractable, reducing the draft to 0.5 meters allowing the craft to be beached or navigate shallow waters.
Vessev has equipped the Skye with high-speed DC charging capabilities of up to 90kW, alongside AC charging up to 22kW with the technology allowing the Skye to consume the same energy at 25 knots as it does at 5 knots.
The Skye has a cruising speed of 25 knots with a top speed of 30 knots with a range of 50 nautical miles under a light load and 40 nautical miles with a full load at cruising speed.
Fun and freedom on the water
“Every detail has been considered to enhance fun and freedom on the water,” explained Paul Flett, Vessev’s head of vessels.
“We designed it to be a space where everyone can connect and have a great time.”
He concluded: “Our design philosophy is to keep things beautifully simple. We use smooth angles, continuous lines, and a clean, uncluttered aesthetic to keep the hydrofoiling technology at the centre of attention.”
Vessev’s team includes experts from America’s Cup teams, Rocket Lab, Apple, and Tesla, who are aiming to reimagine how the world moves on the water.
The first deliveries of the VS–9 Skye are expected in 2027.
