Sydney Harbour will be the stage for the first trial of an electric ferry, with contracts signed to build the locally-designed, Australian-made vessel.
Shipyard Richardson Devine Marine will begin building the trial vessel later this year.
The seven Australian-built Parramatta River Class ferries, representing an investment of $49.6 million, have been a success after their staged launch since May 2024.
After it's built, the new 24-metre, battery electric ferry will be trialled for 12 months from early 2028 and is likely to service the new Sydney Fish Markets route when it enters passenger service in 2029.
Shoreside charging infrastructure will be installed at Barangaroo Wharf to enable the trial.
The first electric ferry is modelled on the new Parramatta River Class ferries, designed by Sydney-based naval architects Incat Crowther.
The performance of the Australian-made ferries has contrasted with the River Class ferries purchased overseas by the former Liberal government which hit the water mired in controversy due to steering defects, asbestos contamination and a threat to passenger safety when passing under low bridges on the Parramatta River.
The electric trial will provide valuable insights as the NSW Government considers the wider transition away from diesel-powered ferries over coming years.
No decisions have yet been made to invest in more electric fleet until Transport for NSW and private ferries operator Transdev Sydney Ferries assess the performance and service range of the first electric trial.
Since 2023, the Minns Labor Government has invested $120 million in our ferry fleet, including new River Class vessels and upgrades to the Freshwater fleet.
Minister for Transport John Graham said:
"The first trial of an electric ferry on Sydney Harbour is an important moment for our iconic ferry fleet which will transition from diesel propulsion over coming years, informed by this first vessel.
"This Northern Beaches-designed, Australian-built ferry will provide a quieter ride and cleaner air on the Harbour.
Transport for NSW Co-ordinator General Howard Collins
"This 12-month trial is an important learning opportunity. It will allow us to test the vessel's performance, reliability, and charging systems in real-world conditions while gathering feedback from passengers and crew."
"Once in regular service, the ferry could also operate on new routes, including services to the new Sydney Fish Market, expanding access to one of Sydney's most popular waterfront destinations."
