UK commercial electric high speed vessel designer Artemis Technologies has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Delta Marine to manufacture eFoiler vessels specifically for Washington’s Puget Sound.
The partnership will provide an eco-friendly solution that addresses both the environmental and logistical challenges facing the area’s waterborne transit systems. Artemis Technologies will work alongside Delta Marine to meet the growing demand for zero-emission ferries, including smaller vessels ideal for high-speed, short-haul routes. Washington State, with more ferries than any other region in the US, is under increasing pressure to transition to cleaner, more efficient models as public interest in sustainable transportation rises.
Artemis has grown significantly since its founding in 2017, having invested over US$100 million in research and development. The company’s work in vessel electrification reached a key milestone in 2022 with the successful deployment of Pioneer of Belfast, the first commercially coded electric foiling vessel. A portfolio of products is now available, that includes the 100% electric foiling ferry, the Artemis EF-24 Passenger, and the Artemis EF-12 Escape, a luxury water taxi. Both models are considered to offer a scalable solution for modern, high-speed ferry services, including routes operated by King County Water Taxi and Kitsap Transit. These vessels, optimised for efficiency and lower environmental impact, reflect the ‘mosquito fleet’ style of smaller, more agile ferries that have recently been advocated as a practical solution to Puget Sound’s ferry congestion.
David Tyler, Co-Founder Artemis Technologies, said: “Our collaboration with Delta Marine enables us to bring our market-leading eFoiler technology to one of the busiest ferry hubs in the US – Washington State is ready for this shift to sustainable maritime transit, and we’re proud to offer real-world solutions that address the region’s pressing transportation challenges and environmental goals.”
Since establishing its North America operations in New York earlier in 2025, Artemis Technologies has seen significant interest from US operators and stakeholders. This MoU with Delta Marine aligns with ongoing partnerships and contracts with maritime operators including Condor Ferries, Orkney Ferries, Brabo, Swedish Maritime Administration, and Red Funnel, underscoring the company’s commitment to decarbonising marine transportation.
Delta Marine VP Michelle Jones said: “Partnering with Artemis Technologies allows us to bring world-leading electrification and foiling expertise to our region. By building these ferries locally, we are supporting Washington’s clean energy objectives and fostering innovation in the US maritime sector.”
Delta is considered a suitable partner for several reasons. Both companies share a passion for leveraging technology to create efficient, forward-thinking naval architecture, design, and construction. Headquartered in Seattle for over 50 years, the Pacific Northwest shipbuilder has been a leader in composite construction using unconventional solutions, lightweight materials, and creative forms.
Jones said: “Sustainability is a top priority, particularly in our corner of the world. As someone who has literally grown-up sailing on Washington State ferries, we couldn’t be more excited to partner with Artemis to craft a model of efficient water transportation that pays tribute to the extraordinary nature around us. To employ our knowledge base as leaders in advanced lightweight composite construction for the good of the public and the natural world is a chance of a lifetime.”
With the production of the Artemis EF-24 Passenger, Artemis Technologies and Delta Marine aim to set a new standard for high-speed, zero-emission vessels in the Puget Sound. This collaboration reflects an ongoing commitment to environmental stewardship and a more sustainable solution to city congestion that will improve passenger experience and reduce emissions while helping to protect the natural resources of Washington State’s waterways.
Image: eFoiler passenger vessel (source: Artemis Technologies)
