Uber Boat by Thames Clippers (UBTC) operates London’s River Bus service, providing essential transport for both commuters and tourists along the River Thames. In September 2023, following two years of research and development, Uber launched Earth Clipper, the first of three hybrid vessels designed to operate solely on battery power. These boats facilitate transport between the Tower and Battersea Power Station piers. They are exclusively electric and recharge using biofuelled power, specifically hydrotreated vegetable oil, sourced outside central London. This initiative results in an approximate 90% reduction in CO2e emissions compared to traditional marine diesel, while a selective catalytic reduction system ensures that NOx and SOx emissions remain below International Maritime Organisation recommended limits.
The sister vessel, Celestial Clipper, is scheduled to launch in February 2024, followed by Mars Clipper in March 2024. Collectively, these three hybrid boats will increase capacity by 27%, adding 696 additional seats. UBTC operates as a private entity, receiving no public subsidy and thus is not subject to Thames emission reduction legislation. Despite the higher construction costs, exceeding 25% for cleaner vessels, UBTC plans to invest £70 million in a new fleet by 2030, aiming for hybrid vessels as a minimum, with full electrification or zero emissions where feasible.
Additionally, work is underway to deliver the UK’s first fully electric Zero Emission Cross River Ferry, scheduled for operation between Canary Wharf and Rotherhithe by spring 2025. UBTC has also initiated light freight transport trials in partnership with DHL, contributing to the reduction of road congestion and enhancing air quality for Londoners. In 2022, UBTC carried over 4.5 million passengers, representing a 107% recovery compared to 2019, with an impressive 5 million passengers carried in 2023.
Hovertravel
Hovertravel is the world’s only year-round passenger hovercraft service, providing a critical high-speed connection between Portsmouth and the Isle of Wight across the Solent. Operating 60 flights per day, Hovertravel serves nearly one million passengers annually, catering to a diverse customer base that includes commuters, schoolchildren, medical professionals, and tourists. During the peak season from April to October, services run every 30 minutes, while hourly operations are maintained from November to March, accommodating up to 78 passengers per crossing.
Hovertravel collaborates with National Express and Southern Vectis to offer an all-inclusive ticketing option for journeys from anywhere in the UK to various destinations on the Isle of Wight. The company prioritises passenger assistance, with staff providing luggage support and a HoverCare (HC) scheme designed for those requiring additional help. This service can accommodate one wheelchair per crossing and permits pets and bicycles, subject to capacity.
The HoverCare working group, comprising representatives from all departments, focuses on enhancing accessibility and inclusivity through consultations with specialist groups. The “Try Before You Fly” events enable feedback from various charities, including the National Autistic Society and the NHS, fostering improvements in service delivery. Staff training encompasses awareness of hidden disabilities and collaboration with guide dogs, complemented by partnerships with local transport services to share best practices.
In support of Equality, Diversity, and Inclusion (EDI), Hovertravel has transformed its branding for Pride events, maintaining a rainbow design on its crafts throughout 2023. The company has received top accreditation in the Government’s Inclusive Transport Leaders Scheme, recognising its outstanding EDI approach. Furthermore, Hovertravel is exploring alternative fuel options with Griffon Hoverwork and has implemented a waste management programme aimed at achieving zero landfill. The service also functions as an amphibious ambulance for medical emergencies and is involved in transporting vital organs, particularly during its partnership with the NHS throughout the Covid pandemic.
Wightlink Ferries
Wightlink is recognised as a leading ferry operator in the Solent, carrying over 3.8 million passengers annually between the Isle of Wight and ports in Portsmouth and Lymington, facilitated by more than 100 sailings each day. In 2023, the company received the Gold award for Best UK Ferry Operator at the British Travel Awards, determined solely by customer votes. Wightlink demonstrates strong performance across multiple criteria, including patronage growth, sustainability, innovation, customer satisfaction, and support for local initiatives.
Financially, Wightlink has shown significant recovery, with turnover increasing from £71 million in 2022 to £78.7 million in 2023. Reliability is evident, with 99% of sailings operating as scheduled and a punctuality rate of 96% for departures in 2023. Customer satisfaction surveys indicate an impressive score of 96.4% for the same year. Furthermore, Wightlink holds a dominant market share of 54.6% for freight transportation to the Isle of Wight.
Wightlink's employment practices reflect a commitment to staff retention, evidenced by 15 long service awards presented during FY2024, including employees with tenures of up to 40 years. The operator actively supports the local supply chain, sourcing products from Island producers such as Briddlesford Farm and Grace’s Bakery. Additionally, Wightlink allocates £400,000 annually for community initiatives and offers travel discounts to local sports, arts, and community groups. The company is investing in the construction of all-electric vessels, having previously introduced the UK’s first large hybrid ferry in 2018, thus contributing to reductions in carbon emissions and improvements in local air quality.
