Vessev is a New Zealand-based marine innovator, building electric hydrofoiling vessels for a cleaner future.
| Founded year: | 2017 |
| Country: | New Zealand |
| Funding rounds: | 6 |
| Total funding amount: | $3300000 |
| Looking for funding: | Yes |
Description
Vessev is a New Zealand-based marine innovator, building electric hydrofoiling vessels for a cleaner, more connected future.In a market where marine technology has remained largely unchanged, operators are looking for smarter ways to stay competitive, cut costs, and reduce their environmental impact. While electric vessels are available, they haven’t delivered the performance, reliability, or range most operators need.
Vessev addresses this with a new kind of vessel. By lifting the hull above the water, hydrofoils dramatically reduce drag – making electric propulsion more efficient. The result is a smooth and quiet flight for passengers, and significantly lower operating costs.
Founded by Max Olson and led by Eric Laakmann, the team brings together deep experience from yacht racing, aerospace, industrial design, and electric mobility to reimagine how we move on the water.
Awards and Recognitions
Vessev has earned significant recognition for its innovation in marine technology. Most notably, the company’s flagship vessel, the VS-9, was awarded the 2025 Red Dot Award for Product Design, one of the world’s most prestigious design honors, celebrating its sleek aesthetics, advanced engineering, and user-centered functionality. The VS-9 also holds the distinction of being the world’s first certified commercial electric hydrofoiling vessel, a milestone acknowledged across the maritime industry. In addition, Vessev’s partnership with Fullers360, New Zealand’s largest ferry operator, positioned it as the first private operator globally to deploy a certified electric hydrofoiling passenger vessel in commercial service, a groundbreaking achievement in sustainable marine transport. These awards and industry-first milestones highlight Vessev’s leadership in combining safety, performance, and sustainability in vessel design.
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/vessev/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/vessev.marine/
