The UK’s first fully electric zero-emissions ferry, Orbit Clipper, officially completed its first passenger trip across the River Thames earlier this month.
The ferry is owned and operated by Uber Boat by Thames Clippers and was developed in part with funding from the Department for Transport and Innovate UK, in conjunction with project partners including high-speed aluminium ship builder, Wight Shipyard Company; maritime civil engineering consultants, Beckett Rankine; and electric infrastructure specialists, Aqua superPower.
The ferry will operate entirely without tailpipe emissions between Rotherhithe on the south of the river and the northern side of Canary Wharf.
A ceremony was held to mark the launch of the vessel, with the Mayor of London, Sadiq Khan, among attendees including local leaders, partners and stakeholders.
Mayor of London, Sadiq Khan, said:This is a fantastic new transport option for Londoners – not only cleaner and greener than its predecessor, but providing quicker and more accessible journeys across the river for far more people.
Innovation and investment in travel infrastructure like this will help us navigate the challenges facing our environment and our economy as we continue building a fairer, greener, better London for everyone.
Cyclists were also welcomed onto the boat in partnership with British Triathlon.
Orbit Clipper will now enter operation in tandem with Twinstar to ensure service continuity, with the new vessel set to be phased into operation progressively. Full, exclusive service is expected to begin in Spring 2026, with the 150-passenger boat crossing the river every 10 minutes from each side on weekdays and 15 minutes on weekends.
The vessel forms part of Uber Boat by Thames Clippers’ sustainable innovation initiative; with the company’s modern fleet now consisting of three hybrid high-speed ferries: Earth Clipper, Celestial Clipper, and Mars Clipper.
Sean Collins, CEO of Uber Boat Thames Clippers, said:The launch of Orbit Clipper is a significant milestone for sustainable transport in London. As the UK’s first all-electric, zero-emissions vessel, it represents our commitment to reducing the city’s carbon footprint while continuing to provide reliable and efficient river transport.
Orbit Clipper not only showcases cutting-edge innovation but also sets a new standard for eco-friendly travel on the Thames, helping to shape a cleaner, greener future for Londoners and visitors alike.
