Europe’s First Electric Hydrofoiling Vessel to Transform Travel at Finn Lough Resort

Travelers seeking unforgettable journeys will soon find a new reason to visit Northern Ireland’s Finn Lough Resort. In a pioneering move, the award-winning eco destination has partnered with New Zealand marine innovator Vessev to bring Europe’s first electric hydrofoiling passenger vessel to its lakeside retreat. This groundbreaking collaboration places Finn Lough at the forefront of sustainable luxury travel, combining futuristic marine technology with immersive natural beauty. The VS–9, Vessev’s flagship vessel, is scheduled to arrive in 2026, marking a significant milestone for both European tourism and international marine innovation.

The VS–9: Flying Over the Waters of Lower Lough Erne

The VS–9 is unlike any vessel currently operating in Europe. Designed as a nine-meter catamaran, it rises above the water on carbon fiber hydrofoils. By lifting the hull, it eliminates drag, reduces wake, and ensures an almost silent ride. With its all-electric propulsion, the vessel achieves zero on-board emissions while cutting energy use by up to 90% compared with traditional boats.

Technical highlights include:

Seating for 10 passengers plus one skipper
Top speed of 30 knots
A cruising range of up to 50 nautical miles
Rapid charging capacity of 0.6 nautical miles per minute

In addition to its performance, the vessel offers passengers panoramic wraparound glazing for uninterrupted views. Recently recognised with a Red Dot Design Award, the VS–9 demonstrates how innovation and aesthetics can merge to deliver an experience-first form of travel.

The Finn Lough Resort Experience Elevated by Innovation

Set deep within forest landscapes on the shores of Lower Lough Erne, Finn Lough Resort has become known for its signature Bubble Domes, its focus on nature-led design, and its philosophy of “wildly refined” travel. Guests are encouraged to step into the wilderness while still enjoying curated comforts. The addition of the VS–9 fits seamlessly with this vision. The resort views the hydrofoiling vessel as more than transport; it is an extension of the travel experience itself. Guests will glide across the lake in near silence, engaging with the untamed beauty of the water and surrounding landscapes in a completely new way. This combination of technology and nature encapsulates Finn Lough’s belief that luxury is no longer about excess but about meaningful connection with place.

Shaping the Future of Eco-Tourism

For Finn Lough, introducing the VS–9 is not only about enhancing its offerings but also about pioneering a new standard in sustainable hospitality. By being the first resort in Europe to operate an electric hydrofoiling vessel, it signals to the global tourism industry that eco-innovation can be an integral part of luxury experiences. Travelers are increasingly prioritizing destinations that reflect their values. Silent, zero-emission journeys across Lower Lough Erne will appeal to eco-conscious guests seeking experiences that go beyond conventional tourism.

Vessev’s Global Vision

Founded by Max Olson and Eric Laakmann, Vessev draws expertise from yacht racing, aerospace, and electric vehicle technology. Its vision is to revolutionize how people move across water while maintaining environmental responsibility. Vessev’s CEO, Eric Laakmann, has highlighted that luxury hospitality operators and transport providers alike are recognizing the opportunities this technology creates. The vessels not only delight passengers but also generate long-term operational value. The company’s success in its home country of New Zealand demonstrates this momentum. Fullers360, the nation’s largest ferry operator, already operates a VS–9 named Kermadec in Auckland’s Waitematā Harbour. Now, with Finn Lough as its first European partner, Vessev is expanding its reach to global waters.

A Travel Experience to Remember

The partnership between Vessev and Finn Lough is more than a business deal; it is a signal of where travel is heading. As sustainability becomes central to hospitality, innovations like the VS–9 are transforming not only how people move but how they connect with destinations. When the VS–9 begins service in 2026, guests at Finn Lough will enjoy more than transportation. They will take part in a new chapter of European travel history, where luxury, sustainability, and technology converge on the waters of Northern Ireland. This development promises to draw eco-conscious travelers, marine enthusiasts, and design lovers alike, making Finn Lough a must-visit destination for those seeking the future of travel today.

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