Wellington Electric Boat Building Company

Hidden within Gracefield, Wellington Electric Boat Building Company (WEBBCO) sparks a revolution. It’s not just about boats. It’s about a vision. A vision of a future where ferries glide silently across the water, leaving no trace but a gentle wake. In 2018, WEBBCO embarked on a bold mission. They decided to build the Southern Hemisphere’s first fully electric ferry. This ambitious undertaking led to the birth of Wellington Electric Boat Building Company. WEBBCO champions marine electrification on a global scale. Their creation, Ika Rere, meaning “flying fish”, isn’t just a name. It’s a testament to their innovative spirit. This 19-meter catamaran carries up to 132 passengers. It ferries commuters and tourists across Wellington Harbour from Queens Wharf to Days Bay. Ika Rere makes up to seven trips a day, reaching speeds of 20 knots. Currently, it charges overnight using a 300 kW shore charger. However, it’s designed to handle 1 MW charges in the future. This forward-thinking approach ensures Ika Rere is ready for infrastructure upgrades. It runs entirely on renewable energy provided by Meridian Energy. The team at WEBBCO understands that innovation requires collaboration. They work with industry experts. These experts use a design-thinking approach. This helps them solve complex problems and navigate the dynamic world of marine electrification. Each ferry presents unique challenges. These include performance criteria, passenger capacity, and charging infrastructure. WEBBCO’s team brings years of experience to every project. They apply their knowledge to tailor solutions for each vessel. WEBBCO’s success story extends beyond Ika Rere. They’ve proven that high-performance electric ferries are not a distant dream. They are a reality. They have tackled the challenges and uncertainties of this new frontier. WEBBCO stands ready to bring other electric ferry projects to life.