Condor Ferries has joined a Northern Ireland-based consortium with the goal of operating a low-emission commuter ferry between Belfast and Bangor.
The ferry service to commence in 2024 will act as a pilot scheme for the new series of fast ferries currently under development by the 14-member Belfast Maritime Consortium, which is led by engineering firm Artemis Technologies.
The vessels will be powered by Artemis' proprietary foiling system, enabling them to fly above the water, allowing for a comfortable ride, producing minimal wake at high-speed, while using up to 90 per cent less energy compared to conventional ferries.
The pilot service will run from Bangor Marine to Belfast's Titanic Quarter with a travel time of around 30 minutes.