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In a significant leap for sustainable urban transport, Uber Boat by Thames Clippers has announced the launch of the UK’s first fully electric zero-emission cross-river ferry, the Orbit Clipper, set to debut in March 2025. Currently under construction at Wight Shipyard Co on the Isle of Wight, this vessel will offer a green, accessible, and efficient transport option for over 20,000 passengers daily in London.
The Orbit Clipper will operate between Canary Wharf and Rotherhithe, providing a quick, eco-friendly cross-river servic e. The ferry will run every 10 minutes on weekdays and every 15 minutes on weekends, accommodating up to 150 passengers and 100 bicycles. Its innovative roll-on/roll-off design enables automated docking, ensuring faster boarding and improved accessibility for cyclists and pedestrians.
The Orbit Clipper represents the next step in Uber Boat by Thames Clippers’ sustainable innovation initiative. It follows the introduction of three hybrid high-speed vessels that have already reduced emissions by up to 90%. The zero-emission ferry aligns with the company’s ambitious goals to halve carbon emissions by 2035 and achieve net-zero emissions by 2050.
This new electric ferry reduces the environmental impact of river transport and provides a reliable and modern solution for Londoners and visitors. By integrating innovative technologies and prioritising sustainability, Uber Boat by Thames Clippers is redefining the future of urban mobility, paving the way for greener and more efficient transport options in the UK’s capital.
Sean Collins, co-founder and CEO of Uber Boat by Thames Clippers, said, “It’s a real British success story. All of our new boats are proudly built in the UK using the latest green technology at Wight Shipyard Co on the Isle of Wight. This new vessel will launch within our 25th year of operation, and it reaffirms our investment in both the local Isle of Wight economy and London.
“This zero-emission solution also comes after the recent launch of our third hybrid boat – Mars Clipper – into our main River Bus fleet and is the next step on our journey to advancing sustainable maritime technology. The Thames is the lifeblood of our great capital and it’s our ambition to continue to push for further progression along the river - we’re calling upon London’s maritime businesses and government bodies to collaborate and ensure a greener future for all.”
Toby Mumford, CEO of Wight Shipyard, said: “At Wight Shipyard, we’re thrilled to strengthen our partnership with Uber Boat by Thames Clippers by building its first zero-emission vessel. This was our first build accessing the Innovate UK grant funding in partnership with Uber Boat by Thames Clippers, Beckett Rankine and Aqua superPower. Having already delivered six vessels, of which three are hybrid boats, for the fleet, this milestone represents not only a significant step forward for sustainable maritime innovation in the UK but also highlights the international potential for British-built electric vessels. We hope and expect that it is the first of many.
“It’s an honour to contribute to Uber Boat by Thames Clippers’ 25-year legacy, and we’re proud that our work here on the Isle of Wight supports both the local economy and the evolution of cleaner, greener transport solutions for London and beyond.”
Tim Beckett, Director, Beckett Rankine, said: “It's now five years since Beckett Rankine and Uber Boat by Thames Clippers came up with the concept for a zero-emission roll-on/roll-off ferry at Rotherhithe, as an alternative to the then proposed bridge. I am delighted that this vision is now being realised, with the aid of Wight Shipyard building the vessel and Aqua Superpower providing the shore power connections.
“Orbit Clipper is a groundbreaking vessel in many respects, not least in that it is a double-ended, self-docking, auto-mooring ferry. This has, in turn, required the design of a novel new pier for Rotherhithe and a pier extension for Canary Wharf. The new pier is designed with a gentle gradient to make the ferries accessible for cyclists and people with restricted mobility. Improved cycle access supports wider plans for e-cargo bike river crossings. Beckett Rankine is proud to have been responsible for the design and consenting of these pier works, on which construction is due to commence in January. As London extends eastward, there is an increasing need for cross-river pedestrian and cycle links across the Thames, so Orbit Clipper couldn’t be launching at a better time.”
Matt Holland, chief project engineer, Aqua superPower, said: “Aqua superPower is proud to contribute its marine fast-charging expertise to this pioneering project, which sets a benchmark for future initiatives. The launch of Orbit Clipper marks a significant step in decarbonising diesel ferries on the Thames, playing a vital role in London’s clean mobility efforts. Our involvement highlights Aqua’s commitment to marine electrification and cutting-edge infrastructure, and we are excited to collaborate with fellow industry leaders to drive this transformation forward.”
The Orbit Clipper, Uber Boat by Thames Clippers' first fully electric ferry, is set to replace the current cross-river ferry service. It will continue to serve key locations like the DoubleTree by Hilton hotel in Rotherhithe while meeting the growing needs of Canary Wharf's employment hub and the expanding residential neighbourhoods on both sides of the Thames.
As part of the project, a new step-free pontoon is under construction on the south side of the river, ensuring improved accessibility for all passengers. Additionally, Canary Wharf's existing pier will undergo modifications to accommodate the new electric ferry berth, integrating advanced technologies to support the vessel's operations.
This initiative is backed by the Clean Maritime Demonstration Competition Round 3, funded by the Department for Transport in collaboration with Innovate UK. It also benefits from key project partnerships with industry leaders, including:
Wight Shipyard Company is a specialist in high-speed aluminium shipbuilding.
Beckett Rankine, maritime civil engineering consultants.
Aqua superPower is an expert in electric infrastructure solutions.
For over 25 years, Uber Boat by Thames Clippers has led advancements in the marine sector, championing the Thames' role in London's sustainable transport network. As part of its ongoing mission, the company is exploring cutting-edge fuel options such as compressed hydrogen gas, liquid hydrogen, and methanol, reaffirming its commitment to shaping a greener future for urban mobility.
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