A fast-ferry commuter service on Belfast Lough, which Condor Ferries had planned to begin operating between Bangor and Belfast this year, has suffered a setback as it instead is to be launched in late 2025.
The proposed inter-city sailings, according to BBC News, are set to utilise Belfast based Artemis Technologies zero carbon emissions ferry powered by a state-of-the-art electric propulsion system.
Originally a pilot scheme of the commuter service between Bangor Marina and the Ulster capital’s Titanic Quarter, which is set to be operated by Channel Islands based Condor Ferries, was to have begun service by this year.
Afloat has contacted Artemis Technologies, which has confirmed the delay is not to do with Condor Ferries bid to secure its continuation of Channel Islands services when the contract is renewed in March, 2025 as BBC News also reported other bidders it is understood include Irish Ferries and DFDS.
Artemis Technologies said, "With projects of this scale and complexity, there are inevitable delays and factors outside of our control. The consortium team have worked tirelessly to mitigate some of the challenges we have faced."
Production of the first fast-craft, as BBC News continues, sees the EF-24 passenger ferry is "well under way," but at this stage they are now working towards a date in autumn 2025.
The passenger-only ferry, which is to ply Belfast Lough, will use hydrofoil technology to lift the craft out of the water. This means that the craft can travel above the waves, enabling a reduction in drag and facilitating faster speed.
More coverage here on the delayed commuter craft pilot project.
