Stockholm now features the world’s first electric hydrofoiling ferry in public service, the Candela P-12 “Nova”. Operated in partnership with the local transport authority (SL/Region Stockholm), this innovative boat uses underwater wings (hydrofoils) to lift above the water, enabling it to “fly” silently and smoothly.
The ship in the pilot project is named Nova. It takes up to 25 people and then has a range of about 40 nautical miles in 25 knots. The top speed is about 27 knots and with its reach makes the ship the world’s most energy efficient and fastest electric passenger ship at present. The Ekerö to City Hall journey takes about 30 minutes on Nova, roughly half the time compared to car/bus (approx. 1 hour) or conventional ferries (45-55 minutes).
This technology dramatically cuts energy use by over 80% and CO₂ emissions by 95% compared to conventional diesel ferries. Running on the Ekerö to City Hall route, the high-speed (25 knots), low-wake vessel halves commute times to just 30 minutes. The highly popular pilot project, which resumed service in April 2025, has proven successful, boosting waterway ridership and showcasing a faster, greener future for urban transport.
When Nova comes up in just over 18 knots (33 km/h), the sound from the water stops and the boat begins to “fly,” with the hull a bit above the water surface. At these speeds, an advanced control system is used that stabilizes the boat. Sensors read the wave height up to 100 times per second and the boat’s software can then adjust the position of the wings to pare the waves and make the journey comfortable.
Nova drives every day of the week except Monday, and then at the end of May the plan is for the boat to start driving every day of the week. This vessel operates entirely on electric power, utilizing submerged electric motors. Combined with hydrocarbon technology that elevates the hull above the water, this innovative design achieves approximately 80 percent greater energy efficiency compared to conventional ships of similar dimensions. Furthermore, this technology minimizes the wake generated by Nova, benefiting both the natural environment and wildlife, while also providing passengers with a smooth and enjoyable journey.
Visit Candela website for more information on this amazing hydrofoiling water taxi at https://sl.se/aktuellt/nyheter/barplansbaten-nova
