Orbit Clipper, the UK’s first fully electric, zero-emissions ferry, completed its maiden passenger journey across the River Thames, heralding a transformative step forward for sustainable transport in London.
The groundbreaking vessel represents a significant investment in clean mobility and is set to play a central role in reducing carbon emissions along one of London’s busiest waterways.
The ferry, owned and operated by Uber Boat by Thames Clippers developed with part funding from the Department for Transport and Innovate UK, was built in conjunction with project partners including high-speed aluminium ship builder, Wight Shipyard Company; maritime civil engineering consultants, Beckett Rankine; and electric infrastructure specialists, Aqua superPower. Orbit Clipper will operate between Rotherhithe on the south of the river and Canary Wharf on the northern side with zero tailpipe emissions, providing an accessible, fast and green service for thousands of Londoners and visitors a day.
A ceremony to mark the launch of the unique vessel was held today, with the Mayor of London, Sadiq Khan, among attendees. He was joined by local leaders, partners and stakeholders who gathered to commemorate Orbit Clipper’s first passenger outing.
In partnership with British Triathlon, supporting the city’s drive for active, sustainable travel, a fleet of cyclists were welcomed onto the boat, in a landmark moment defined by a striking sea of lime-green helmet covers.
Orbit Clipper will enter operation in tandem with the current vessel, Twinstar to ensure service continuity. The vessel will be progressively phased into operation, with full operation and exclusivity of the route targeted for Spring 2026. Once fully operational, the 150-passenger boat, with capacity for 100 bicycles, will cross the river every 10 minutes from each side on weekdays and every 15 minutes on weekends.
The vessel is part of Uber Boat by Thames Clippers’ broader sustainable innovation initiative. The company has a modern fleet featuring three hybrid high-speed ferries: Earth Clipper, Celestial Clipper, and Mars Clipper. Operating on battery power in Central London, the hybrid vessels recharge while continuing their journey outside of this zone.
Adding Orbit Clipper to the fleet underlines the Uber Boat by Thames Clippers’ commitment to creating green transport solutions for London’s commuters and leisure travellers. The project is a significant step towards the River Bus’ ambitious target of reducing carbon emissions by 50% by 2035 and achieving net-zero by 2050.
Sean Collins, CEO of Uber Boat Thames Clippers, believes launching the UK’s first fully electric vessel is a watershed moment for green transport in London. “The launch of Orbit Clipper is a significant milestone for sustainable transport in London. As the UK’s first all-electric, zero-emissions vessel, it represents our commitment to reducing the city’s carbon footprint while continuing to provide reliable and efficient river transport.
“Orbit Clipper not only showcases cutting-edge innovation but also sets a new standard for eco-friendly travel on the Thames, helping to shape a cleaner, greener future for Londoners and visitors alike.”
Mayor of London, Sadiq Khan, said: “This is a fantastic new transport option for Londoners – not only cleaner and greener than its predecessor, but providing quicker and more accessible journeys across the river for far more people. Innovation and investment in travel infrastructure like this will help us navigate the challenges facing our environment and our economy as we continue building a fairer, greener, better London for everyone.”
Andrew Brem, General Manager, Uber UK, said: “By boat, bike or car, Londoners now have even more options to take a zero-emission journey across the capital with Uber. Whether you’re commuting to work or enjoying the sights of the city, the Orbit Clipper is a brilliant addition to the Thames and is an important milestone in the electrification of London’s transport options.”
Tim Beckett, Director of Beckett Rankine commented: “’London desperately needs efficient, zero-emission transport solutions on the river just as it needs them on land, and those solutions must be cost-effective. Uber Boat by Thames Clippers and Beckett Rankine addressed this challenge with our concept for a zero-emission ferry crossing at Rotherhithe, earning the prestigious NCE100 Impact in Transport Award 2019.
With Orbit Clipper now launched, Rotherhithe’s electric ferry crossing is a game-changer. Crucially, the project has provided valuable lessons that will guide future low-cost, active travel river crossing schemes toward success.”
Matt Holland, Chief Project Engineer at Aqua superPower said: “We are delighted to have partnered on this landmark project and to provide the reliable, fast-charging infrastructure that powers Orbit Clipper. This milestone demonstrates that electrification is not just viable but ready today for critical marine passenger transport – in London and around the world. It also underscores Aqua superPower’s expertise in designing, installing, and operating robust charging networks that will drive the next generation of zero-emission marine ferries.
Orbit Clipper marks a major step forward in sustainable urban water transport. Aqua superPower’s advanced marine chargers ensure rapid, seamless recharging, supporting the vessel’s high-frequency service while delivering zero local emissions on the River Thames. Aqua superPower remains committed to expanding electric-vehicle charging infrastructure across the Thames and global waterways, enabling cleaner, quieter, and more efficient marine mobility for the future”
Mike Biddle, Executive Director for Net Zero at Innovate UK said: “The Orbit Clipper is a powerful example of how UK innovation can transform future industries, with Uber Boat by Thames Clippers championing zero-emission waterborne transport in London.
At Innovate UK, our job is to help brilliant ideas become viable businesses. By working in strategic partnership with DfT through UK SHORE, we’re supporting the technologies that will define clean transport and drive sustainable growth. Investment today isn’t just about one project, it’s about positioning UK business to lead tomorrow’s green economy.”
Toby Mumford, CEO at Wight Shipyard Company said: “We’re proud to deliver the Thames’ first fully electric ferry, thanks to the support from Innovate UK, and our project partners led by Uber Boat by Thames Clippers. The quality of the vessel is a testament to the team on the island and the vision of UBTC who have been driving this project for many years. We hope this is the first of many electric ferries we build both for Uber Boat by Thames Clippers and for export.”
Ruth Daniels, CEO at British Triathlon commented: “We’re proud to be working with Uber Boat by Thames Clippers as our Official London Travel Partner, a collaboration that perfectly reflects our shared commitment to sustainability, inclusivity, and promoting healthier lifestyles. With space for up to 100 bikes, the Orbit Clipper gives triathletes, commuters, tourists, and anyone traveling across London a greener, more convenient way to get around. The ability to integrate River Bus services into their routine adds a welcome, sustainable alternative. As the World Triathlon Championship Series returns to London next July, we’re excited to offer participants a unique and efficient route to the start line through this ongoing partnership.”
