Shipyard Richardson Devine Marine is set to begin building the first Australian-made electric ferry on Sydney Harbour.
The Hobart-based shipyard will commence construction on the 24-metre trial vessel later this year. Designed by Sydney’s Northern Beaches naval architects Incat Crowther, the battery-electric ferry is modelled on the highly successful Parramatta River Class fleet.
Once completed, the new electric ferry will undergo a rigorous 12-month trial starting in early 2028. To facilitate the testing, dedicated shoreside charging infrastructure will be installed at Barangaroo Wharf. If successful, the vessel is expected to enter passenger service in 2029, likely servicing the route to the new Sydney Fish Market.
The New South Wales government has invested AU$120 million into the state’s ferry fleet since 2023, which includes a AU$49.6 million investment in seven Australian-built Parramatta River Class vessels.
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.
“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 emphasised that the 12-month trial is a vital learning opportunity to test real-world reliability, performance, and charging systems.
“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,” Collins added.
While the trial will inform the state’s long-term transition away from diesel, Transport for NSW and operator Transdev Sydney Ferries will assess the vessel’s range and data before making further fleet investment decisions.