December 27th 2024.
Did you know that London's river transport is about to become even more eco-friendly? We all know that electric bikes are a great way to reduce our carbon footprint, but the latest upgrade in river transport will make a big difference in making our city cleaner and greener.
Dubbed the Orbit Clipper, this fully electric ferry will be the first of its kind in the UK and will launch in March 2025. Operated by Uber Boat by Thames Clippers, the ferry will run between Canary Wharf and Rotherhithe, providing a convenient and environmentally-friendly option for commuters and travelers.
Currently being constructed in the Isle of Wight, the Orbit Clipper is set to be a game-changer in the world of river transport. With space for 150 passengers and 100 bikes, it will operate seven days a week and carry 20,000 passengers every weekday. And the best part? It will run every 10 minutes on weekdays and every 15 minutes on weekends, replacing the current cross-river ferry service.
Not only is the Orbit Clipper a huge step towards reducing carbon emissions, but it's also part of Thames Clippers' overall strategy to achieve net zero by 2050. In fact, the company has already added three hybrid high-speed vessels to its fleet, cutting emissions by up to 90%.
But the Orbit Clipper is not the only green initiative in the works. Plans are also underway for a new pier at Rotherhithe and an extension for Canary Wharf, making it even easier for people to access the ferry. The pier is designed with a gentle gradient to accommodate cyclists and those with restricted mobility.
Sean Collins, co-founder and CEO of Uber Boat by Thames Clippers, is excited about this new addition to their fleet. He proudly states that all of their new boats are built in the UK using the latest green technology, supporting the local economy in the Isle of Wight. "The Thames is the lifeblood of our great capital," he says. "And it's our ambition to continue to push for further progression along the river."
London is not alone in its efforts to promote greener river transport. Norway has been operating the world's first fully electric car ferry, the MF Ampere, for almost a decade, while cities like Copenhagen and Amsterdam have also implemented electric ferries. Even Brittany Ferries has joined the movement and will introduce its first hybrid ship, the Saint-Malo, in February 2025.
It's clear that the Orbit Clipper and other green initiatives are paving the way for a more sustainable future. As Sean Collins puts it, "we're calling upon London's maritime businesses and government bodies to collaborate and ensure a greener future for all." And with other cities following suit, it's only a matter of time before river transport becomes the norm for eco-conscious travelers.
So, next time you're planning your commute or a day out on the river, consider taking the Orbit Clipper and join in on the effort to make our city cleaner and greener. And if you have any stories to share about your experience, be sure to get in touch!
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