Electric, elevated, unmissable: what the electric ferry is all about
I thought I knew what to expect from a ferry ride. Salty wind, engine noise, maybe a bit of a bump over the waves. But this? This was something else entirely. I boarded at Auckland’s Viaduct thinking I was in for a cruise. What I got was more like a 40-minute flight.
The ride: silent, smooth, and seriously cool
The ferry’s called Kermadec, and it’s not like anything I’ve ever been on. It’s sleek, electric, and made right here in New Zealand by a company called Vessev. It looks more like a futuristic pod than a boat, and as soon as we left the harbour and hit 20-knots, I could feel it start to lift.
Literally.
Within moments, we were gliding above the surface on hydrofoils. No thumping over waves, no engine growl, just the gentle hum of the electric engine, and the occasional seagull squawk.
There were just a handful of us onboard (it only takes 8 people), so it felt intimate, almost like a private tour. The Fullers360 crew shared stories and pointed out sights along the way, including a spin under the harbour bridge.
It’s not just cool, it’s clean
One of the wildest parts? This whole experience was almost entirely silent and completely electric.
No emissions. No smoke. Just clean energy doing something incredible. The ferry uses 95% less energy than your standard diesel boat and barely leaves a trace on the water. As someone who loves the Gulf, that mattered to me.
What you need to know
It leaves from the Viaduct in Auckland.
It lasts around 40 minutes.
You get amazing views, great local hosts, and in summer, snacks and drinks.
It costs $59 (for now - totally worth it).
Best time to go? Early morning for calm seas and sunrise vibes, or late afternoon for that golden glow.
Would I do it again?
Absolutely. It’s not just a ride, it’s an experience. Part futuristic transport, part floating observatory.
If you want to see the Hauraki Gulf in a totally new way, without leaving a footprint: this is it.
FAQs
Q: Is this a transport service or a tour?
A: It’s a hosted ferry experience, designed as a roundtrip from Auckland to explore the Gulf by sea, not point-to-point transport (yet).
Q: Where does the ferry go?
A: Routes vary slightly depending on weather and tides, but you'll cruise past Auckland, Rangitoto, and nearby islands in the central Hauraki Gulf.
Q: Is it suitable for kids or people prone to seasickness?
A: Yes. The hydrofoil ride is ultra-smooth with minimal motion, and the ride is short enough for all comfort levels.
Q: Can I do this as part of a bigger Waiheke day?
A: Currently the ride isn’t connected to other island services.
Q: What should I bring?
A: Just your phone or camera, and weather-appropriate layers, it’s cozy inside but you might want to enjoy time on deck too.
Guest voices
“The smoothest boat I’ve ever been on. Felt like something out of the future.” – Jess, Auckland
“Loved learning about the marine tech while soaking in the Gulf views. Classy, not flashy.” – Dave T., via Google Reviews
“Eco-tourism done right. Real step forward for the city.” – Instagram comment @fullers360
"The VS‑9 is a 10‑seater hydrofoiling tour boat … it has just made its maiden voyage over the Hauraki Gulf."
"As it left the marina and reached a cruising speed of 25 knots, the VS‑9 lifted above the water on its foils."
“The first Vessev VS‑9 electrically‑powered hydro foiling ferry, Kermadec, has entered commercial service with Auckland‑based ferry and tourism operator Fullers360.”
“The nine‑metre VS‑9 can take up to 10 passengers … and is set to open new opportunities for water transport and tourism.”
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