Orbit Clipper, the UK’s first fully electric zero-emissions ferry, has today completed its first passenger trip across the River Thames, ushering in a new era for sustainable transport in London.
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.
Today, 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.”
