--- title: News | Frostabåten description: Frostabåten | --- [![Dark\_yellow-fill\_POS\_powbyFI](https://oceanautonomy.no/hs-fs/hubfs/Dark_yellow-fill_POS_powbyFI.png?width=350&height=49&name=Dark_yellow-fill_POS_powbyFI.png)](https://oceanautonomy.no?hsLang=en-us) - [NEWS](https://oceanautonomy.no/en-us/news?hsLang=en-us) - ABOUT - [CLUSTER AND TEAM](https://oceanautonomy.no/en-us/clusterandteam?hsLang=en-us) - [MEMBERSHIP](https://oceanautonomy.no/en-us/membership?hsLang=en-us) - [MEMBERS](https://oceanautonomy.no/en-us/members?hsLang=en-us) - PROJECTS - [Dark Drones](https://oceanautonomy.no/dark-drones?hsLang=en-us) - [FI Ocean Space Incubator](https://fi-nor.no/en/oceanspaceincubator/) - [Frostabåten](https://oceanautonomy.no/frostab%C3%A5ten?hsLang=en-us) - [Maritimt studentsenter Nyhavna](https://oceanautonomy.no/en-us/maritimt-studentsenter-nyhavna?hsLang=en-us) - [MIDAS - Mennesket i framtidens havromsoperasjoner](https://oceanautonomy.no/nb/project_midas?hsLang=en-us) - [MIDAS Academy](https://midas-academy.no/) - [ROC - Remote Operation Centres for next-generation maritime autonomy](https://oceanautonomy.no/project_roc-remote-operation-centres-for-next-generation-maritime-autonomy?hsLang=en-us) - [Strategisk forum Nyhavna](https://oceanautonomy.no/no-no/project-strategisk-forum-nyhavna?hsLang=en-us) - [Testination](https://testination.io/) - [XLRTR - Accelerate Dual-Use Technology for Multi-domain Operations](https://oceanautonomy.no/en-us/xlrtr?hsLang=en-us) - Completed projects - [AGATI - Adriatic Green Autonomous Transport Initiative](https://oceanautonomy.no/en-us/project_agati?hsLang=en-us) - [DIGIFJORD](https://oceanautonomy.no/en-us/project_digifjord?hsLang=en-us) - [FAST - Flexible Autonomous Smart Transport](https://oceanautonomy.no/en-us/project_fast?hsLang=en-us) - [FLEX FERRY](https://oceanautonomy.no/en-us/project_flexferry?hsLang=en-us) - [MATIN - The Croatia – Norway Marine Technology Innovation network](https://oceanautonomy.no/en-us/project_matin?hsLang=en-us) - [NEWS](https://oceanautonomy.no/en-us/news?hsLang=en-us) - ABOUT - [CLUSTER AND TEAM](https://oceanautonomy.no/en-us/clusterandteam?hsLang=en-us) - [MEMBERSHIP](https://oceanautonomy.no/en-us/membership?hsLang=en-us) - [MEMBERS](https://oceanautonomy.no/en-us/members?hsLang=en-us) - PROJECTS - [Dark Drones](https://oceanautonomy.no/dark-drones?hsLang=en-us) - [FI Ocean Space Incubator](https://fi-nor.no/en/oceanspaceincubator/) - [Frostabåten](https://oceanautonomy.no/frostab%C3%A5ten?hsLang=en-us) - [Maritimt studentsenter Nyhavna](https://oceanautonomy.no/en-us/maritimt-studentsenter-nyhavna?hsLang=en-us) - [MIDAS - Mennesket i framtidens havromsoperasjoner](https://oceanautonomy.no/nb/project_midas?hsLang=en-us) - [MIDAS Academy](https://midas-academy.no/) - [ROC - Remote Operation Centres for next-generation maritime autonomy](https://oceanautonomy.no/project_roc-remote-operation-centres-for-next-generation-maritime-autonomy?hsLang=en-us) - [Strategisk forum Nyhavna](https://oceanautonomy.no/no-no/project-strategisk-forum-nyhavna?hsLang=en-us) - [Testination](https://testination.io/) - [XLRTR - Accelerate Dual-Use Technology for Multi-domain Operations](https://oceanautonomy.no/en-us/xlrtr?hsLang=en-us) - Completed projects - [AGATI - Adriatic Green Autonomous Transport Initiative](https://oceanautonomy.no/en-us/project_agati?hsLang=en-us) - [DIGIFJORD](https://oceanautonomy.no/en-us/project_digifjord?hsLang=en-us) - [FAST - Flexible Autonomous Smart Transport](https://oceanautonomy.no/en-us/project_fast?hsLang=en-us) - [FLEX FERRY](https://oceanautonomy.no/en-us/project_flexferry?hsLang=en-us) - [MATIN - The Croatia – Norway Marine Technology Innovation network](https://oceanautonomy.no/en-us/project_matin?hsLang=en-us) [Get in touch](https://26558673.hs-sites-eu1.com/contactus?hsLang=en-us) Posts about # Frostabåten ## [Survey confirms strong interest in Frostabåten](https://oceanautonomy.no/en-us/oacnews/survey-confirms-strong-interest-in-frostabåten) Posted by [Lars Bugge Aarset](https://oceanautonomy.no/en-us/oacnews/author/lars-bugge-aarset) | Oct 1, 2026, 9:20:07 PM **A new passenger survey for Frostabåten confirms what the project team has long believed: there is...** [CONTINUE READING](https://oceanautonomy.no/en-us/oacnews/survey-confirms-strong-interest-in-frostabåten) ## [Norway to deploy electric “flying” ferries – tested in the Trondheim fjord](https://oceanautonomy.no/en-us/oacnews/norway-to-deploy-electric-flying-ferries-tested-in-the-trondheim-fjord) Posted by [Lars Bugge Aarset](https://oceanautonomy.no/en-us/oacnews/author/lars-bugge-aarset) | Apr 9, 2026, 8:55:00 AM Norway is taking a major step in zero-emission maritime transport as [Boreal AS](https://www.boreal.no/forside/) has ordered 20... [CONTINUE READING](https://oceanautonomy.no/en-us/oacnews/norway-to-deploy-electric-flying-ferries-tested-in-the-trondheim-fjord) ## [The critical role of 5G in future of autonomous maritime transport](https://oceanautonomy.no/en-us/oacnews/5g-enables-the-worlds-first-autonomous-ferry-route) Posted by [Lars Bugge Aarset](https://oceanautonomy.no/en-us/oacnews/author/lars-bugge-aarset) | Apr 8, 2026, 1:01:05 PM [Les saken på norsk](https://www.nordsec-cluster.no/aktuelt/5g-spiller-kritisk-rolle-i-fremtidens-autonome-maritime-transport) As the maritime industry explores autonomous and semi-autonomous vessels,... [CONTINUE READING](https://oceanautonomy.no/en-us/oacnews/5g-enables-the-worlds-first-autonomous-ferry-route) ## [Candela raises €30 million to scale electric hydrofoil ferries](https://oceanautonomy.no/en-us/oacnews/candela-raises-30-million-to-scale-electric-hydrofoil-ferries) Posted by [Lars Bugge Aarset](https://oceanautonomy.no/en-us/oacnews/author/lars-bugge-aarset) | Mar 23, 2026, 1:36:48 PM Swedish marine technology company Candela has raised €30 million in its largest funding round to... [CONTINUE READING](https://oceanautonomy.no/en-us/oacnews/candela-raises-30-million-to-scale-electric-hydrofoil-ferries) ## [Candela joins Ocean Autonomy Cluster with electric hydrofoiling vessel expertise](https://oceanautonomy.no/en-us/oacnews/candela-joins-ocean-autonomy-cluster-with-electric-hydrofoiling-vessel-expertise) Posted by [Lars Bugge Aarset](https://oceanautonomy.no/en-us/oacnews/author/lars-bugge-aarset) | Feb 17, 2026, 12:54:12 PM Swedish technology company Candela has joined Ocean Autonomy Cluster, bringing cutting-edge... [CONTINUE READING](https://oceanautonomy.no/en-us/oacnews/candela-joins-ocean-autonomy-cluster-with-electric-hydrofoiling-vessel-expertise) ## [– Incredible enthusiasm around Frostabåten](https://oceanautonomy.no/en-us/oacnews/-incredible-enthusiasm-around-the-frostabåten) Posted by [Lars Bugge Aarset](https://oceanautonomy.no/en-us/oacnews/author/lars-bugge-aarset) | Jan 6, 2026, 4:07:26 PM [Les saken på norsk](https://fi-nor.no/et-vanvittig-engasjement-rundt-frostabaten/) [CONTINUE READING](https://oceanautonomy.no/en-us/oacnews/-incredible-enthusiasm-around-the-frostabåten) ## [Trondheim municipality testing electric hydrofoil to Munkholmen](https://oceanautonomy.no/en-us/oacnews/trondheim-municipality-tested-electric-hydrofoil-to-munkholmen) Posted by [Lars Bugge Aarset](https://oceanautonomy.no/en-us/oacnews/author/lars-bugge-aarset) | Dec 19, 2025, 10:31:09 PM By Lars Bugge Aarset/Fremtidens Industri [CONTINUE READING](https://oceanautonomy.no/en-us/oacnews/trondheim-municipality-tested-electric-hydrofoil-to-munkholmen) ## [Frostabåten – Successful test sailing of electric hydrofoil in Trondheimsfjorden](https://oceanautonomy.no/en-us/oacnews/frostabåten-successful-test-sailing-of-electric-hydrofoil-in-trondheimsfjorden) Posted by [Lars Bugge Aarset](https://oceanautonomy.no/en-us/oacnews/author/lars-bugge-aarset) | Dec 18, 2025, 9:46:35 PM [Les saken på norsk](https://fi-nor.no/frostabaten-vellykket-testseiling-av-elektrisk-hydrofoil-i-trondheimsfjorden/) [CONTINUE READING](https://oceanautonomy.no/en-us/oacnews/frostabåten-successful-test-sailing-of-electric-hydrofoil-in-trondheimsfjorden) ## [Frostabåten: A real-world testbed for the future of autonomous maritime travel](https://oceanautonomy.no/en-us/oacnews/frostabåten-a-real-world-testbed-for-the-future-of-autonomous-maritime-travel) Posted by [Lars Bugge Aarset](https://oceanautonomy.no/en-us/oacnews/author/lars-bugge-aarset) | Dec 9, 2025, 8:15:42 PM [Les saken på norsk](https://fi-nor.no/frostabaten-en-fullskala-testarena-for-fremtidens-autonome-sjotransport/) What happens when a ferry starts taking over some of the tasks we normally... [CONTINUE READING](https://oceanautonomy.no/en-us/oacnews/frostabåten-a-real-world-testbed-for-the-future-of-autonomous-maritime-travel) ## [Frostabåten begins test sailings with electric hydrofoil on the Trondheim Fjord](https://oceanautonomy.no/en-us/oacnews/frostabåten-begins-test-sailings-with-electric-hydrofoil-on-the-trondheim-fjord) Posted by [Lars Bugge Aarset](https://oceanautonomy.no/en-us/oacnews/author/lars-bugge-aarset) | Nov 17, 2025, 2:22:44 PM [Les saken på norsk](https://fi-nor.no/frostabaten-starter-testseiling-med-elektrisk-hydrofoil-pa-trondheimsfjorden/) [CONTINUE READING](https://oceanautonomy.no/en-us/oacnews/frostabåten-begins-test-sailings-with-electric-hydrofoil-on-the-trondheim-fjord) ## On the same subject ### [Breach VR: Reality is cross-platform](https://oceanautonomy.no/en-us/oacnews/breach-vr-reality-is-cross-platform) [Aida Refvik Angell](https://oceanautonomy.no/en-us/oacnews/author/aida-refvik-angell) [VR](https://oceanautonomy.no/en-us/oacnews/tag/vr), [Breach VR](https://oceanautonomy.no/en-us/oacnews/tag/breach-vr) ### [The Ocean Space Incubator in Trøndelag: Will strengthen Norway’s position in ocean space technology](https://oceanautonomy.no/en-us/oacnews/the-ocean-space-incubator-will-strengthen-norways-position-in-ocean-space-technology) [Birgit Thorsen](https://oceanautonomy.no/en-us/oacnews/author/birgit-thorsen) [Uncategorized](https://oceanautonomy.no/en-us/oacnews/tag/uncategorized) ### [Autonomimiljøet i Midt-Norge får støtte til millionprosjekt](https://oceanautonomy.no/en-us/oacnews/autonomimiljoet-i-midt-norge-far-stotte-til-millionprosjekt) [malin](https://oceanautonomy.no/en-us/oacnews/author/malin) [Uncategorized](https://oceanautonomy.no/en-us/oacnews/tag/uncategorized) ##### About Ocean Autonomy Cluster Ocean Autonomy Cluster is awarded The ECEI BRONZE Label “Striving for Cluster Excellence” [![Bronze label](https://oceanautonomy.no/hs-fs/hubfs/Bronze%20label.png?width=180&height=70&name=Bronze%20label.png)](https://www.cluster-analysis.org/benchmarked-clusters)   ##### Links - [NEWS](https://oceanautonomy.no/en-us/news) - ABOUT - PROJECTS - [NEWS](https://oceanautonomy.no/en-us/news) ##### Contact us [Frode@fi-nor.no](mailto:Frode@fi-nor.no) +47 918 45 969 Skippergata 14 - 7040 Trondheim-NORWAY [Subscribe for newsletter](https://share-eu1.hsforms.com/1drRpuCknT9Gj2pUOE-9pVgft8sx) ![Dark\_yellow-fill\_POS (3)](https://oceanautonomy.no/hs-fs/hubfs/Dark_yellow-fill_POS%20(3).png?width=322&height=45&name=Dark_yellow-fill_POS%20(3).png) [![FI\_logo\_stor](https://oceanautonomy.no/hs-fs/hubfs/FI_logo_stor.png?width=41&height=41&name=FI_logo_stor.png)](https://fi-nor.no/) ![FI - redigert logo](https://oceanautonomy.no/hs-fs/hubfs/FI%20-%20redigert%20logo.png?width=174&height=58&name=FI%20-%20redigert%20logo.png)    ©2026 Copyright . All rights reserved. [Privacy policy](https://oceanautonomy.no/privacy-policy?hsLang=en-us) - - - ```json { "@context" : "http://schema.org", "@type" : "BlogPosting", "articleBody" : "A new passenger survey for Frostabåten confirms what the project team has long believed: there is strong interest in a new ferry connection between Frosta and Trondheim. At the same time, the results show that the passenger base is even stronger than expected, both among commuters and people who own holiday homes in Frosta. The survey, which collected responses from 1,332 people with connections to Frosta, follows this winter’s extensive test sailing programme with the electric hydrofoil ferry Candela P-12 in Trondheim Fjord. The trials were carried out through the Frostabåten project in collaboration with Ocean Autonomy Cluster, FI Ocean Space Incubator, Testination, NTNU, and a range of public and private stakeholders to explore both the technology and the market potential for a future maritime connection between Frosta and Trondheim. Confidence in the project confirmed Mayor Frode Revhaug believes the survey sends a clear signal that interest in Frostabåten is deeply rooted in the local community. “I am delighted to see that so many people want to use Frostabåten. For me, this is about making everyday life easier for those who live here and enabling more people to choose Frosta as their home while working or studying in Trondheim. It is also exciting to see that so many part-time residents say the ferry could encourage them to spend more time here. There is still work to be done before a permanent service is established, but these responses provide strong motivation to continue moving forward,” says Mayor Frode Revhaug. Mayor of Frosta, Frode Revhaug. Photo: Lars Bugge Aarset / Fremtidens Industri Project initiator Terje Viken says the results align closely with the impressions gathered during the test sailing programme. “We expected strong interest, and that has been confirmed throughout the entire testing period. What is particularly interesting is just how broad the passenger base actually is. We are not only seeing a significant number of potential commuters, but also very strong interest from people who own holiday homes in Frosta. That creates a much more robust market foundation than a traditional commuter service alone,” says Viken. 235 want to commute The survey shows that 235 respondents say they would commute to work or study in Trondheim if the timetable matched their needs. When responses are weighted according to expected travel frequency, this corresponds to approximately 144 passengers in each direction on an average weekday. The figures point to a substantial market for a future high-speed ferry service. The survey also indicates that the connection could influence settlement patterns. Several respondents considering relocating to Frosta say that a ferry service would make the municipality a more attractive place to live. The survey also provides a clear indication of the most important departure times. Nearly half of all morning commuters prefer departures between 06:30 and 07:30, while afternoon demand is distributed relatively evenly between the periods 15:00-16:00 and 16:00-17:00. Frostabåten pioneer Terje Viken. Photo: Lars Bugge Aarset / Fremtidens Industri Strong interest among holiday-home owners One of the most interesting findings is the strong interest among people who own holiday homes in Frosta. Of the 506 respondents who identify as part-time residents, 337 say they would use Frostabåten to travel to and from their holiday properties. That corresponds to roughly two-thirds of the group. An additional 223 holiday-home owners say that a ferry service would encourage them to spend more time in Frosta throughout the year and commute to Trondheim from there more frequently. This potential comes on top of the regular commuter market and is therefore not included in the estimate of 144 daily commuter passengers. In total, the survey estimates approximately 5,600 leisure trips per month. As many as 76 percent of respondents say they would use the ferry at least once or twice per month for activities such as cultural events, dining, shopping, and visiting friends and family. This means Frostabåten could become much more than a commuter service. It could also serve as an important link between Trondheim and the many holiday homes in Frosta, generating significant traffic during afternoons, weekends, and holiday periods. At 15 knots, the hydrofoils lift the hull out of the water and the vessel begins to fly. Photo: Lars Bugge Aarset / Fremtidens Industri Winter trials provided valuable insights The strong interest reflected in the survey is consistent with experiences from the winter testing programme. During the trials, the Candela P-12 operated between Trondheim, Frosta, Leksvik, Munkholmen, Grilstad Marina, and several other locations around the fjord. The purpose was both to demonstrate the vessel’s capabilities and to gather data that can support the future development of maritime mobility solutions. The project also demonstrated how electric hydrofoil vessels can dramatically reduce energy consumption compared with conventional high-speed ferries. By lifting the hull above the water on hydrofoils, the Candela P-12 reduces drag and combines high speed with low emissions and low energy use. Research partners used the test period to explore future solutions for increasingly automated maritime operations. Through collaboration with NTNU Shore Control Lab, the vessel was connected to a shore-based control centre via the 5G network to test remote monitoring, video streaming, and navigation support systems. NTNU Shore Control Lab. Photo: Lars Bugge Aarset / Fremtidens Industri Strengthening the foundation for future development The goal of Frostabåten is to establish an emission-free transport connection that can reduce travel time between Frosta and Trondheim to around 25 minutes. The project also aims to support green mobility, regional development, and new opportunities for settlement, business growth, and tourism on both sides of Trondheim Fjord. For project partners Ocean Autonomy Cluster, FI Ocean Space Incubator, and Testination, the survey provides important evidence that there is not only a strong technological case for the initiative, but also a substantial market eager to use the service. Although the survey notes that respondents were self-selected and therefore may not fully represent the entire population, the overall picture is clear: interest in restoring a fast maritime connection between Frosta and Trondheim is strong. The findings confirm the project’s expectations of significant demand while also demonstrating that the market potential, particularly among holiday-home owners, is even greater than anticipated. Test sailing of Frostabåten, the electric hydrofoil Candela P-12, in Trondheim Fjord. Photo: Lars Bugge Aarset / Fremtidens Industri", "author" : { "@type" : "Person", "name" : "Lars Bugge Aarset", "sameAs" : "https://www.linkedin.com/in/larsaarset/", "url" : "https://oceanautonomy.no/en-us/oacnews/author/lars-bugge-aarset" }, "dateModified" : "01/10/2026", "datePublished" : "01/10/2026", "headline" : "Survey confirms strong interest in Frostabåten", "image" : { "@type" : "ImageObject", "height" : 400, "url" : "https://26558673.fs1.hubspotusercontent-eu1.net/hubfs/26558673/Frostab%C3%A5ten%20torsdag%2018%20desember%202025%20-%20Foto%20Lars%20Bugge%20Aarset%20Fremtidens%20Industri%20%2817%29.jpg", "width" : 750 }, "mainEntityOfPage" : "https://oceanautonomy.no/en-us/oacnews/survey-confirms-strong-interest-in-frostabåten", "publisher" : { "@type" : "Organization", "logo" : { "@type" : "ImageObject", "url" : "https://26558673.fs1.hubspotusercontent-eu1.net/hubfs/26558673/Dark_yellow-fill_POS%20(3).png" }, "name" : "Ocean Autonomy Cluster/FI - Fremtidens Industri", "url" : "oceanautonomy.no" } } ``` ```json { "@context" : "http://schema.org", "@type" : "BlogPosting", "articleBody" : "Norway is taking a major step in zero-emission maritime transport as Boreal AS has ordered 20 electric hydrofoil ferries from Candela Technology. Both companies are members of the Ocean Autonomy Cluster, underlining how collaboration across industry players is helping accelerate the shift towards sustainable maritime operations. The order represents the world’s largest deployment of electric hydrofoil vessels to date and signals a breakthrough for high-speed, zero-emission passenger transport along the Norwegian coastline, where long distances and demanding conditions have traditionally made electrification difficult. Demonstrated in Trondheim The technology has already been tested in Norwegian waters. During trial operations on the Trondheimsfjorden, the vessel – referred to locally as the “Frostabåten” – demonstrated how hydrofoil technology can perform under real operating conditions. Frostabåten is also a FI Ocean Space Incubator project. The Candela P-12 is a 40-foot (12 m) vessel with seating for 30 passengers and a speed of 25 knots. By lifting the hull above the water at higher speeds, the vessel reduces drag significantly and achieves far lower energy consumption than conventional fast ferries. The test runs in Trondheim showed stable performance in varying sea states and confirmed the potential for electrifying routes that are currently dependent on diesel-powered vessels. For regions with fjords and dispersed communities, this represents a meaningful step towards viable zero-emission high-speed transport. The concept has also been demonstrated in other Norwegian waters, including the Oslofjord, further validating the technology across different operating environments. Test-sailing Candela P-12 Unlocking electric high-speed transport While Norway is already a global leader in electrification, high-speed passenger vessels have remained one of the most challenging segments to decarbonise. The Candela P-12 addresses this by using computer-controlled hydrofoils that allow the vessel to “fly” above the water, cutting energy consumption by up to 80 percent. This efficiency enables a combination of speed and range that has previously been difficult to achieve with electric propulsion. At the same time, the vessel can be charged using standard DC fast chargers, reducing the need for costly and time-consuming grid upgrades in coastal areas. From pilot to large-scale deployment The first two vessels are expected to be delivered in 2027, with the remaining fleet phased in towards 2030. Boreal AS plans to deploy the vessels on a mix of urban and regional routes, both in Norway and internationally. While specific routes have yet to be confirmed, Boreal sees significant potential along large parts of the Norwegian coastline. The company is currently in dialogue with partners across commercial routes, tourism and charter operations, as well as public transport services, targeting both urban commuter markets and rural connections. The initiative illustrates how operators and technology developers—working closely within environments such as the Ocean Autonomy Cluster—can move from testing and validation to full-scale deployment of new maritime solutions. “Candela P-12 is the only electric passenger vessel that combines longer range with high speed without requiring extensive charging infrastructure. Our investment will enable new high speed routes both in cities and in rural areas,” says Nikolai Knudsmoen Utheim, CEO at Boreal. “Norway has already led the electrification of maritime transport. With this fleet, Boreal wants to take the next step—accelerating zero-emission high-speed travel along the Norwegian coast and helping bring electric vessels to new markets beyond Norway.” “We are working with relevant stakeholders to develop specific routes, including in areas where the technology has already been tested, such as the Oslofjord and the Trondheim region. These projects will now mature further ahead of the first vessel deliveries,” says Jon Kristian Fadnes, Head of Communications at Boreal. From Trondheim trials to commercial deployment “The Trondheim Fjord trials proved that electric hydrofoils can operate safely and efficiently even in winter, while enabling assisted autonomy functions that improve reliability. As Boreal now moves toward the first fleet deployment, our shared task in Trøndelag is to demonstrate that this technology can also be operated commercially on real routes,” says Linda Cathrine Hald, Project Manager, Ocean Space Incubator. “With Boreal and Candela as members of the Ocean Autonomy Cluster, and Boreal as a core partner in Testination, this collaboration shows how Norway’s maritime ecosystem can move from pilots to full operations. Our next step is to build out the supporting systems around the vessels: digital and autonomy assisted operations, remote monitoring, energy and charging concepts, and flexible route models that make high speed zero emission transport commercially viable along the Norwegian coast, ”Hald adds. Frode Halvorsen, manager of Ocean Autonomy Cluster and Linda Cathrine Hald, project manager for Frostabåten at FI Ocean Space Incubator. Photo: Lars Bugge Aarset/Fremtidens Industri About Boreal AS Boreal is a Norwegian public transport operator providing bus, ferry and fast-boat services across the country. The company has taken a leading role in introducing zero-emission solutions in maritime transport and continues to explore new concepts for sustainable and efficient passenger mobility along the coast. Boreal is also a key partner for Testination - the Trondheimfjorden testbed for autonomus technology. About Candela Technology Candela is a Swedish technology company specialising in electric hydrofoil vessels. Through the integration of lightweight materials, advanced sensors and flight control systems, the company has developed vessels capable of operating efficiently at high speed while significantly reducing energy consumption, enabling new possibilities for electric transport at sea.", "author" : { "@type" : "Person", "name" : "Lars Bugge Aarset", "sameAs" : "https://www.linkedin.com/in/larsaarset/", "url" : "https://oceanautonomy.no/en-us/oacnews/author/lars-bugge-aarset" }, "dateModified" : "09/04/2026", "datePublished" : "09/04/2026", "headline" : "Norway to deploy electric “flying” ferries – tested in the Trondheim fjord", "image" : { "@type" : "ImageObject", "height" : 400, "url" : "https://26558673.fs1.hubspotusercontent-eu1.net/hubfs/26558673/Frostab%C3%A5ten%20torsdag%2018%20desember%202025%20-%20Foto%20Lars%20Bugge%20Aarset%20Fremtidens%20Industri%20%286%29.jpg", "width" : 750 }, "mainEntityOfPage" : "https://oceanautonomy.no/en-us/oacnews/norway-to-deploy-electric-flying-ferries-tested-in-the-trondheim-fjord", "publisher" : { "@type" : "Organization", "logo" : { "@type" : "ImageObject", "url" : "https://26558673.fs1.hubspotusercontent-eu1.net/hubfs/26558673/Dark_yellow-fill_POS%20(3).png" }, "name" : "Ocean Autonomy Cluster/FI - Fremtidens Industri", "url" : "oceanautonomy.no" } } ``` ```json { "@context" : "http://schema.org", "@type" : "BlogPosting", "articleBody" : "Les saken på norsk As the maritime industry explores autonomous and semi-autonomous vessels, reliable 5G connectivity is emerging as a cornerstone for safe and efficient operations. Projects across Norway are demonstrating how high-speed, low-latency networks enable real-time monitoring, control, and data management for vessels. The Lavik–Oppedal route across the Sognefjord, operated by Fjord1, is set to become the world’s first autonomous ferry connection. The route is 5.6 kilometers long, part of the E39 highway network, and is Norway’s ninth largest ferry connection, with 1.2 million passenger car equivalents recorded in 2022. In the first half of 2026, Fjord1 will receive four zero-emission ferries that will begin operating on the route from September 2026, which will gradually become autonomous by 2030. The goal is for the vessels to eventually operate as self-sailing ferries with a high degree of automation. These ferries will rely on ultra-fast and stable network connectivity, with Norwegian Electric Systems (NES) providing the autonomy system that enables them to sail from quay to quay, dock, load, and unload with minimal human intervention. As a sub-supplier to NES we find SentiSystems that helps increase system resilience by providing advanced sensor data processing, enabling operation even when GPS/GNSS signals are jammed or spoofed. Arne Kjørsvik, CEO of SentiSystems. Photo: Lars Bugge Aarset/Fremtidens Industri “SentiSystems’ solutions enable robust processing of sensor data, allowing vessels to operate safely even in environments where GPS/GNSS signals are jammed or spoofed,” says Arne Kjørsvik, CEO of SentiSystems. This capability is critical for increasing system resilience in safety-critical maritime operations. SentiSystems is a member of both Ocean Autonomy Cluster and NORDSEC Nordic Defence and Security Cluster. Photo: Fjord1 See also: Situation awareness by design: Advancing remote operation of autonomous vessels 5G as critical infrastructure Autonomous operations generate enormous amounts of data, and stable, high-speed data traffic is essential. This applies broadly to the future of autonomous maritime transport, beyond individual ferry routes, enabling developers and operators to test, monitor, and refine autonomous systems. “Autonomy at sea requires extremely high uptime and low latency. Without reliable 5G, the ferries could not operate safely or efficiently,” says Ørjan Midttun, IT Manager at Fjord1. Ole Magnar Lillestøl and Ørjan Midttun. Photo: Fjord1 The ferries continuously transmit real-time data from cameras, sensors, and navigation systems to the control center in Florø. To handle this, Telia is deploying new 5G mmWave technology, offering speeds of up to 800 megabits per second. “5G is the backbone of this operation. It allows uninterrupted communication with all Fjord1 operational systems on the ferries in real time, even under challenging fjord conditions,” says Tom Erik Nilsen, Sales Director at Telia. SLAM-based tecnologies advancing with standalone 5G According to Espen Frydenlund, Business Developer at Telia Norway, Norwegian autonomy environments have already demonstrated how far multi-sensor navigation and SLAM-based technologies have advanced. Simultaneous Localization and Mapping - SLAM is a method used in robotics and autonomous navigation where a vessel, vehicle, or robot simultaneously builds a map of its surroundings and calculates its own position within that map, without relying on GPS. ZeaFalcon Uncrewed Surface Vessel (USV) from Zeabuz. Photo: Lars Bugge Aarset/Fremtidens Industri Zeabuz develops solutions for autonomous and remotely supervised operations, where ships can “see”, understand and navigate their environment independently. “Zeabuz has already shown how far Norwegian autonomy expertise has progressed, with advanced multi-sensor systems and SLAM-based navigation that allow vessels to operate safely even without GPS. This type of local autonomy provides impressive onboard robustness,” says Frydenlund. Zeabuz delivers intelligent navigation, autonomy and remote control solutions for vessels. Frydenlund emphasizes that scaling such solutions from pilots to commercial operations requires more than onboard intelligence alone. “To scale these solutions to commercial deployment, you need a communications infrastructure that delivers predictability, low latency, and high availability. This is where 5G Standalone becomes decisive.” Øyvind Smogeli demonstrating Zeabuz Remote Operations Centre (ROC) in Nyhavna, Trondheim. Photo: Lars Bugge Aarset/Fremtidens Industri Se also: Zeabuz delivers autonomy solution to Swedish zero-emission ferry 5G Standalone is a full 5G network architecture with a dedicated core network that delivers lower latency, more stable performance, and the ability to allocate dedicated network resources, essential for real-time control and autonomous operations. With 5G Standalone (SA), dedicated network resources and network slicing can be used to separate critical vessel traffic from other mobile network usage. “With dedicated network resources and network slicing, autonomous vessels can share sensor data, video, and navigation information with shore-based control centers in near real time, without critical functions being affected by other traffic in the mobile network,” Frydenlund explains. Alexey Gusev, NTNU Shore Control Lab and Espen Frydenlund during Frostabåten test-sailing. Photo: Telia See also: Zeabuz expands into defense and security with new dual-use autonomy platform Test sailings with Frostabåten As another example of how 5G enables advanced maritime operations, Frostabåten has conducted test sailings with an electric hydrofoil on the Trondheimsfjord. The tests explore how semi-autonomous features and new transport concepts can be developed for short fjord routes using energy-efficient, zero-emission vessels. Frostabåten uses a Candela P‑12 hydrofoil, which lifts the hull out of the water to reduce resistance and energy consumption, and can travel between Frosta and Trondheim in about 25 minutes. Frostabåten - Candela-P12 electric hydrofoil. Photo: Lars Bugge Aarset/Fremtidens Industri During the tests, NTNU Shore Control Lab demonstrated how passenger vessels can be monitored from shore using 5G connectivity. The solution allows high-quality video streaming directly from the vessel to a control room, providing enhanced situational awareness and a basis for further development of remote monitoring and operational support. Ole Andreas Alsos, head of Shore Control Lab, said: “We used the 5G network to transmit high-quality video images with extremely low latency from Frostabåten to a control room at Shore Control Lab. This allowed us to monitor the test operation from shore.” Frydenlund also highlights Frostabåten and NTNU’s AutoTeaming project as a full-scale research platform for human–machine interaction and autonomous vessel operations under real conditions. Autoteaming is a research and development project led by NTNU that develops and tests solutions for effective teamwork between humans and autonomous vessels. The project builds technologies, methods, and control-center concepts that enable operators to supervise, support, and collaborate with autonomous systems in real time, with a strong focus on safety, decision support, and human–machine interaction in real operational environments. “Through Frostabåten and the AutoTeaming project, researchers can test situational awareness, decision support, and remote operations in real environments. The vessel depends on stable high-speed connectivity to transfer and analyze large volumes of data in real time,” he says. The practical experience from Frostabåten shows how 5G not only supports autonomous functions, but also provides a technological foundation for real-time monitoring and control under realistic operational conditions. “Taken together, Zeabuz and Frostabåten show that Norway is at the forefront of maritime autonomy, and that 5G Standalone is a prerequisite for moving the technology from research environments into regular, safe, and scalable operations,” Frydenlund says. See also: Frostabåten – Successful test sailing of electric hydrofoil in Trondheimsfjorden Ole Andreas Alsos, NTNU Shore Control Lab. Photo: Lars Bugge Aarset/Fremtidens Industri About the actors Fjord1 is enhancing service on the Lavik–Opedal route with four new autonomous, electric ferries in operation. Frostabåten is an electric hydrofoil ferry currently undergoing test sailings on the Trondheim Fjord, designed for energy-efficient, high-speed travel and serving as a testbed for autonomous maritime operations. Norwegian Electric Systems develops autonomous control systems and communication solutions for vessels in demanding environments. NTNU Shore Control Lab offers testing and research facilities for autonomous ships, including simulation and land-based remote control systems. SentiSystems develops sensor fusion that ensures seamless handling of local and global navigation, even in situations where GNSS signals are missing. Telia provides high-speed networks and 5G solutions that enable real-time data transmission for autonomous operations. Testination is a test arena for autonomous maritime operations in the Trondheim Fjord and is operated by Ocean Autonomy Cluster. Zeabuz delivers intelligent navigation, autonomy and remote control solutions for vessels. SentiSystems and Zeabuz are members of Ocean Autonomy Cluster and NORDSEC Nordic Defence and Security Cluster, and both companies are incubator ventures in FI Ocean Space Incubator. The Frostabåten project is led by FI Ocean Space Incubator, bringing together industry and research partners to test and mature new autonomous maritime solutions. NTNU Shore Control Lab is a key collaboration partner for Ocean Autonomy Cluster and Testination, and also serves as a central partner in the MIDAS – Humans in Future Maritime Operations project. Se also: Frostabåten: A real-world testbed for the future of autonomous maritime travel Frostobåten Test sailing in Trondheimsfjorden. Photo: Lars Bugge Aarset/Fremtidens Industri", "author" : { "@type" : "Person", "name" : "Lars Bugge Aarset", "sameAs" : "https://www.linkedin.com/in/larsaarset/", "url" : "https://oceanautonomy.no/en-us/oacnews/author/lars-bugge-aarset" }, "dateModified" : "08/04/2026", "datePublished" : "08/04/2026", "headline" : "The critical role of 5G in future of autonomous maritime transport", "image" : { "@type" : "ImageObject", "height" : 400, "url" : "https://26558673.fs1.hubspotusercontent-eu1.net/hubfs/26558673/gloppefjord.jpg", "width" : 750 }, "mainEntityOfPage" : "https://oceanautonomy.no/en-us/oacnews/5g-enables-the-worlds-first-autonomous-ferry-route", "publisher" : { "@type" : "Organization", "logo" : { "@type" : "ImageObject", "url" : "https://26558673.fs1.hubspotusercontent-eu1.net/hubfs/26558673/Dark_yellow-fill_POS%20(3).png" }, "name" : "Ocean Autonomy Cluster/FI - Fremtidens Industri", "url" : "oceanautonomy.no" } } ``` ```json { "@context" : "http://schema.org", "@type" : "BlogPosting", "articleBody" : "Swedish marine technology company Candela has raised €30 million in its largest funding round to date, with new investment from International Finance Corporation (IFC) and continued backing from investors including EQT Ventures and SEB. Despite a slowdown in climate tech investment, Candela is scaling rapidly, driven by strong demand for vessels that combine zero emissions with competitive operating costs. Proven in public transport The Candela P-12 has demonstrated strong results in Stockholm’s public transport system, where it is faster and more cost-efficient than diesel ferries, while reducing energy use by up to 80 percent. Using hydrofoil technology, the vessel lifts above the water to reduce drag, reaching cruising speeds of 25 knots and carrying up to 30 passengers. Scaling for global demand Candela is now moving into serial production at its Rotebro facility, with a growing order book of more than 65 vessels. With this funding, we will scale production and meet growing demand across Europe, the US and Asia, says Gustav Hasselskog, Candela CEO & Founder. The first P-12 units for Mumbai are now shipping, with further deliveries planned across Europe, the US and Asia. Candela -12 testsailing in Trondheimsfjorden. Photo: Lars Bugge Aarset/Fremtidens Industri Tested in Trondheim Candela is a member of the Ocean Autonomy Cluster and has tested the P-12 in the Trondheim fjord through the Frostabåten project. “The test with the P-12 has received massive attention, and our experience is that the vessel performed very well, also in more demanding conditions,” says Linda Cathrine Hald, project manager for Frostabåten at FI Ocean Space Incubator. Trials between Trondheim and Frosta, as well as to Vanvikan and Munkholmen, have demonstrated strong performance, supported by data collection from NTNU and SINTEF. The project explores new low-emission “bus on water” concepts and aims to evaluate future routes and operational models for electric passenger transport. Ingrid Sandnes, head of FI Ocean Space Incubator and Linda Cathrine Hald, project manager for Frostabåten. Photo: Lars Bugge Aarset/Fremtidens Industri", "author" : { "@type" : "Person", "name" : "Lars Bugge Aarset", "sameAs" : "https://www.linkedin.com/in/larsaarset/", "url" : "https://oceanautonomy.no/en-us/oacnews/author/lars-bugge-aarset" }, "dateModified" : "23/03/2026", "datePublished" : "23/03/2026", "headline" : "Candela raises €30 million to scale electric hydrofoil ferries", "image" : { "@type" : "ImageObject", "height" : 400, "url" : "https://26558673.fs1.hubspotusercontent-eu1.net/hubfs/26558673/Frostab%C3%A5ten%20torsdag%2018%20desember%202025%20-%20Foto%20Lars%20Bugge%20Aarset%20Fremtidens%20Industri%20%286%29.jpg", "width" : 750 }, "mainEntityOfPage" : "https://oceanautonomy.no/en-us/oacnews/candela-raises-30-million-to-scale-electric-hydrofoil-ferries", "publisher" : { "@type" : "Organization", "logo" : { "@type" : "ImageObject", "url" : "https://26558673.fs1.hubspotusercontent-eu1.net/hubfs/26558673/Dark_yellow-fill_POS%20(3).png" }, "name" : "Ocean Autonomy Cluster/FI - Fremtidens Industri", "url" : "oceanautonomy.no" } } ``` ```json { "@context" : "http://schema.org", "@type" : "BlogPosting", "articleBody" : "Swedish technology company Candela has joined Ocean Autonomy Cluster, bringing cutting-edge expertise in zero-emission, high-efficiency maritime transport. Candela is widely recognized as a global leader in electric hydrofoiling vessels. By lifting the hull above water with hydrofoils, the company’s vessels cut energy use dramatically while combining long range, high speed, and low operating cost. A key platform is the Candela P-12, an electric ferry built for fast, emission-free commuter routes, combining hydrofoils, lightweight composites, advanced software, and proprietary propulsion systems. Pioneering electric hydrofoils Candela has more than 50 engineers who have developed the full technology stack in-house, covering electric propulsion, control software, hydrofoil design, and onboard electronics. The company’s vessels are setting new standards for sustainable maritime transport. Mikael Mahlberg, Head of Communications and Alexander Sifvert, European Sales Director at Candela. Photo: Lars Bugge Aarset/Fremtidens Industri Showcasing innovation on Frostabåten The P-12 has been used in the Frostabåten project in Trondheim to show how electric hydrofoiling ferries can make commuting across fjords cleaner and more efficient. The project involved regional partners and research institutions, including NTNU and SINTEF. See also: Frostabåten: A real-world testbed for the future of autonomous maritime travel Connecting and collaborating Through Ocean Autonomy Cluster, Candela plans to join events, professional forums, and collaborative projects, while exploring new business and partnership opportunities. “We look forward to participating in cluster events, collaborative projects, and professional forums, and to connecting with new customers and partners through the cluster,” says Mikael Mahlberg, Head of Communications at Candela. See also: Trondheim municipality testing electric hydrofoil to Munkholmen Frostabåten testsailing Candela P-12 in Trondheim. Photo: Lars Bugge Aarset/Fremtidens Industri Sharing expertise Candela contributes advanced knowledge in electric propulsion, hydrofoils, software-controlled vessels, and marine electronics. Its P-12 and C-8 platforms can be co-developed with stakeholders for multiple applications, from passenger transport to autonomous maritime operations. Joining OAC gives Candela a platform to both share its expertise and benefit from Norway’s leading innovation ecosystem for electrification, autonomy, and next-generation maritime systems. See also: – Incredible enthusiasm around Frostabåten", "author" : { "@type" : "Person", "name" : "Lars Bugge Aarset", "sameAs" : "https://www.linkedin.com/in/larsaarset/", "url" : "https://oceanautonomy.no/en-us/oacnews/author/lars-bugge-aarset" }, "dateModified" : "17/02/2026", "datePublished" : "17/02/2026", "headline" : "Candela joins Ocean Autonomy Cluster with electric hydrofoiling vessel expertise", "image" : { "@type" : "ImageObject", "height" : 400, "url" : "https://26558673.fs1.hubspotusercontent-eu1.net/hubfs/26558673/Frostab%C3%A5ten%20torsdag%2018%20desember%202025%20-%20Foto%20Lars%20Bugge%20Aarset%20Fremtidens%20Industri%20%2811%29.jpg", "width" : 750 }, "mainEntityOfPage" : "https://oceanautonomy.no/en-us/oacnews/candela-joins-ocean-autonomy-cluster-with-electric-hydrofoiling-vessel-expertise", "publisher" : { "@type" : "Organization", "logo" : { "@type" : "ImageObject", "url" : "https://26558673.fs1.hubspotusercontent-eu1.net/hubfs/26558673/Dark_yellow-fill_POS%20(3).png" }, "name" : "Ocean Autonomy Cluster/FI - Fremtidens Industri", "url" : "oceanautonomy.no" } } ``` ```json { "@context" : "http://schema.org", "@type" : "BlogPosting", "articleBody" : "Les saken på norsk Test sailings of the Frostabåten continue in January, and interest in the project remains high. With trials under realistic winter conditions and broad participation from research environments, the public sector, and industry, the project is taking new steps toward more cost- and energy-efficient maritime transport on the Trondheimsfjord. The test sailings run from Tuesday to Friday, 12–17 January, with Monday reserved for preparation and the possibility of test runs on Saturday. From Tuesday to Wednesday, the Frostabåten sails from Trondheim, before testing continues to Vanvikan on Thursday. The testing is conducted in collaboration with NTNU Shore Control Lab and SINTEF, with a primary emphasis on evaluating the boat’s systems and performance under realistic conditions and gathering detailed data for further development. The boat has already been tested in challenging winter conditions, and January is expected to bring even colder temperatures than in December. The goal of the project is to contribute to simplifying transport in a way that is both cost- and energy-efficient. – There has been tremendous interest in the project, says Linda Hald, project manager for the Frostabåten at FI Ocean Space Incubator. Serial entrepreneur Terje Viken is a key driving force behind the Frostabåten project. Photo: Lars Bugge Aarset/Fremtidens Industri Most of the passenger spots for the test sailings are now fully booked, but it is still possible to register interest. – The enthusiasm around the Frostabåten has been absolutely incredible, adds Terje Viken. He is from Frosta, a serial entrepreneur, and a key driving force behind the Frostabåten project. NTNU research: building a digital twin Alexey Gusev, PhD Researcher in Design of Autonomous Ferries and Vehicles at NTNU Shore Control Lab (SCL), comments on the testing: – For the upcoming trials, our main goal is to collect extensive data on cameras, positioning, network quality, and the boat’s movements such as rolling, speed, and tilting. – Altogether, this data will give us excellent opportunities to build a digital twin that accounts for these factors and can be integrated into our gateways. The entire system will also be further developed and stress-tested on this route, demonstrating the potential for use on other similar vessels. From a research perspective, this data can support a variety of future projects and, importantly, provide the foundation for a feasibility study on remotely operating small high-speed ferries from onshore control centers such as SCL, Gusev adds. Alexey Gusev, NTNU Shore Control Lab. Photo: Lars Bugge Aarset/Fremtidens Industri Positive results and next steps – So far, the test sailings have gone very well. We expect that the trial to Vanvikan will confirm that docking with such a small vessel will work smoothly. The current challenges are the next steps regarding procurement and financing of boats in a public-private partnership. There is strong interest from public actors, industry, and the tourism sector. There is also significant interest from technology providers within maritime technology, particularly in sensors, safety systems, and autonomous systems, says Linda Hald. Linda Hald, project manager for the Frostabåten, and Frode Halvorsen, head of Testination and Ocean Autonomy Cluster. Photo: Lars Bugge Aarset/Fremtidens Industri Broad collaboration The Frostabåten project is carried out through close collaboration between Frosta Brygge, Trondheim Havn, Ocean Autonomy Cluster, MIDAS, Crazy Coyote, WTW, Login Group, Norsk Droneindustri, SINTEF, Maritime Robotics, and FI Ocean Space Incubator. NTNU, through its Shore Control Lab, is a key partner in testing and research related to remote monitoring and autonomous systems. Trondheim municipality and Trøndelag County Council are important public-sector partners and contribute to the financing of the project. – The hope is that, in the near future, we will have at least three electric hydrofoils in operation on the Trondheimsfjord, and that we position Trøndelag as efficient both in commuter transport and tourist transport, while also leading in the development of new transport technology, adds Linda Hald. Munkholmen may become one of the docking points for the Frostabåten. Photo: Lars Bugge Aarset/Fremtidens Industri Test ride registration form", "author" : { "@type" : "Person", "name" : "Lars Bugge Aarset", "sameAs" : "https://www.linkedin.com/in/larsaarset/", "url" : "https://oceanautonomy.no/en-us/oacnews/author/lars-bugge-aarset" }, "dateModified" : "06/01/2026", "datePublished" : "06/01/2026", "headline" : "– Incredible enthusiasm around Frostabåten", "image" : { "@type" : "ImageObject", "height" : 400, "url" : "https://26558673.fs1.hubspotusercontent-eu1.net/hubfs/26558673/Frostab%C3%A5ten%20torsdag%2018%20desember%202025%20-%20Foto%20Lars%20Bugge%20Aarset%20Fremtidens%20Industri%20%2812%29.jpg", "width" : 750 }, "mainEntityOfPage" : "https://oceanautonomy.no/en-us/oacnews/-incredible-enthusiasm-around-the-frostabåten", "publisher" : { "@type" : "Organization", "logo" : { "@type" : "ImageObject", "url" : "https://26558673.fs1.hubspotusercontent-eu1.net/hubfs/26558673/Dark_yellow-fill_POS%20(3).png" }, "name" : "Ocean Autonomy Cluster/FI - Fremtidens Industri", "url" : "oceanautonomy.no" } } ``` ```json { "@context" : "http://schema.org", "@type" : "BlogPosting", "articleBody" : "By Lars Bugge Aarset/Fremtidens Industri Les saken på Norsk Testing the future of fjord transport – seamless travel, also by bike Representatives from Trondheim municipality recently took part in a test sailing with the Frostabåten, an electric hydrofoil to Munkholmen, to assess the potential for scheduled passenger transport on the fjord. Munkholmen is the small historic island just outside Trondheim city centre, known for its former monastery, fortress and prison, and today a popular recreational destination. Participants from the municipality included Trond Åm from the City Executive Department for Culture, Sports and Outdoor Recreation (V), Knut Kvaran, Head of Unit for Sports and Outdoor Recreation, Marius Austeen, Advisor in the Unit for Sports and Outdoor Recreation, and Paal Christian Bjønnes, Executive Secretary to the City Councillor for Education and Early Childhood in Trondheim municipality. Knut Kvaran tested bringing a bicycle on board. Photo: Lars Bugge Aarset/Fremtidens Industri Considering scheduled transport to Munkholmen The purpose of the trip was to test how the electric hydrofoil performs in practice, and to explore the opportunities the technology may offer for future, sustainable passenger transport between the city and Munkholmen. “It was great fun to take part in this. I truly hope this can be realised, because there is significant potential for scheduled transport on the fjord. This technology opens up many opportunities, and I hope viable commercial solutions can be found,” says Trond Åm from the City Executive Department for Culture, Sports and Outdoor Recreation (V). Frostabåten at Munkholmen. Photo: Lars Bugge Aarset/Fremtidens Industri Zero-emission technology with strong potential The Frostabåten project, featuring the electric hydrofoil Candela P-12, is a pilot project for zero-emission scheduled transport on the fjord. The technology offers low energy consumption, reduced noise, and minimal wake. The goal is to test new solutions for efficient and sustainable maritime transport, and it may also be a relevant alternative between Trondheim city centre and Munkholmen. Trond Åm, City Councillor for Culture, Sports and Outdoor Recreation, and Linda Hald, Project Manager for Frostabåten from FI Ocean Space Incubator. Photo: Lars Bugge Aarset/Fremtidens Industri Combining boat and bicycle The test sailing also demonstrated how the electric hydrofoil can be combined with other modes of transport. Knut Kvaran took the opportunity to bring a bicycle on board and went for a bike ride around Munkholmen after arrival. “This was genuinely exciting. It was great to see how smooth the entire journey was, and very practical that you can bring a bicycle on board. This really makes you want more,” says Knut Kvaran, Head of Unit for Sports and Outdoor Recreation. Knut Kvaran, Head of Unit for Sports and Outdoor Recreation, tested the bicycle on Munkholmen. Photo: Lars Bugge Aarset/Fremtidens Industri Broad collaboration across industry, research and the public sector The company Crazy Coyote works closely with the municipality on the agreement for operating Munkholmen. Crazy Coyote is also providing the boat pilots during the test period. “This type of vessel is highly exciting, and something we see as a sustainable, future-oriented and safe way to transport tourists and the city’s residents out to Munkholmen,” says Managing Director Kenneth Tanem. “Our ambition is to elevate Munkholmen as a destination, and that means the experience must start already on the journey out to Munkholmen,” he adds. The Frostabåten project is carried out through close collaboration between Frosta Brygge, Trondheim Havn, Ocean Autonomy Cluster, MIDAS, Crazy Coyote, WTW, Login Group, Norsk Droneindustri, SINTEF, Maritime Robotics and FI Ocean Space Incubator. NTNU, through its Shore Control Lab, is a key partner in testing and research related to remote monitoring and autonomous systems. Trondheim municipality and Trøndelag County Council are important public-sector partners and contribute to the financing of the project. Test sailing with the Frostabåten, Candela P-12, on the Trondheimsfjord. Photo: Lars Bugge Aarset/Fremtidens Industri Knut Kvaran, Head of Unit for Sports and Outdoor Recreation in Trondheim municipality. Photo: Lars Bugge Aarset/Fremtidens Industri At 15 knots, the hydrofoil on the Candela P-12 lifts the hull out of the water and the boat “flies”. Photo: Lars Bugge Aarset/Fremtidens Industri Paal Christian Bjønnes, Executive Secretary to the City Councillor for Education and Early Childhood, and Marius Austeen, Advisor in the Unit for Sports and Outdoor Recreation, Trondheim municipality. Photo: Lars Bugge Aarset/Fremtidens Industri The Frostabåten at Munkholmen. Photo: Lars Bugge Aarset/Fremtidens Industri Kenneth Tanem, Managing Director of Crazy Coyote and pilot during the Frostabåten test sailings. Photo: Lars Bugge Aarset/Fremtidens Industri Test sailing of the Frostabåten, electric hydrofoil Candela P-12, on the Trondheimsfjord. Photo: Lars Bugge Aarset/Fremtidens Industri The boat even has a bicycle rack on board. Photo: Lars Bugge Aarset/Fremtidens Industri Frostabten at the NTNU quay in Nyhavna. NTNU’s Shore Control Lab is located in the building behind. Photo: Lars Bugge Aarset/Fremtidens Industri Ole Andreas Alsos remotely monitors the test sailings from NTNU’s Shore Control Lab at Nyhavna, by the NTNU quay. Photo: Lars Bugge Aarset/Fremtidens Industri First landing at Munkholmen from the Frostabåten. Photo: Lars Bugge Aarset/Fremtidens Industri Approach to the Pier Terminal at Brattøra, Trondheim. Photo: Lars Bugge Aarset/Fremtidens Industri Se also: Frostabåten – Successful test sailing of electric hydrofoil in Trondheimsfjorden", "author" : { "@type" : "Person", "name" : "Lars Bugge Aarset", "sameAs" : "https://www.linkedin.com/in/larsaarset/", "url" : "https://oceanautonomy.no/en-us/oacnews/author/lars-bugge-aarset" }, "dateModified" : "19/12/2025", "datePublished" : "19/12/2025", "headline" : "Trondheim municipality testing electric hydrofoil to Munkholmen", "image" : { "@type" : "ImageObject", "height" : 400, "url" : "https://26558673.fs1.hubspotusercontent-eu1.net/hubfs/26558673/FRFD8B~1.jpg", "width" : 750 }, "mainEntityOfPage" : "https://oceanautonomy.no/en-us/oacnews/trondheim-municipality-tested-electric-hydrofoil-to-munkholmen", "publisher" : { "@type" : "Organization", "logo" : { "@type" : "ImageObject", "url" : "https://26558673.fs1.hubspotusercontent-eu1.net/hubfs/26558673/Dark_yellow-fill_POS%20(3).png" }, "name" : "Ocean Autonomy Cluster/FI - Fremtidens Industri", "url" : "oceanautonomy.no" } } ``` ```json { "@context" : "http://schema.org", "@type" : "BlogPosting", "articleBody" : "Les saken på norsk – A breakthrough for emission-free and autonomous mobility at sea. This week, an electric hydrofoil from Swedish Candela was tested and trial-sailed in Trondheim Fjord as part of the Frostabåten project. The tests represent an important step toward new emission-free commuter routes, and eventually more autonomous solutions for passenger transport at sea. The project is led by Linda Hald, project manager for Frostabåten, through FI Ocean Space Incubator. Its goal is to explore how electric hydrofoils can be integrated into future public transport offerings, both for commuters, tourism, and new mobility concepts. Candela P‑12 arrived in Trondheim by ship. Photo: Lars Bugge Aarset/Fremtidens Industri Tested on multiple routes in the fjord During the pilot week, the vessel was sailed on routes between Trondheim, Frosta Brygge at Småland, Leksvik, Munkholmen, and Grilstad Marina, in addition to several trips in Trondheim Fjord. The trips served both as technology tests and as data collection opportunities in collaboration with research environments. – We have brought together the entire ecosystem around the project. Public actors, industry, research institutions, and technology suppliers have all been involved. Now we have shown that this can be realized in practice, says Hald. At 15 knots speed, the foils lift the hull out of the water and the boat flies. Photo: Lars Bugge Aarset/Fremtidens Industri Remote monitoring from shore via 5G A key part of the tests was collaboration with NTNU Shore Control Lab, which demonstrated how passenger ferries can be monitored from shore-based control rooms. – We equipped Frostabåten with cameras and communication equipment that allow us to stream 360-degree video from the vessel over the 5G network to our control room at Shore Control Lab in Nyhavna, explains Ole Andreas Alsos, head of Shore Control Lab and professor of interaction design at the Department of Design. NTNU developed a dedicated Gateway, a compact and user-friendly box that connects to power, cameras, and antennas. The solution collects and sends high-quality audio and video streams directly to the control room. Ole Andreas Alsos, head of NTNU Shore Control Lab. Photo: Lars Bugge Aarset/Fremtidens Industri – Just ten minutes after gaining access to the vessel, we were able to transmit the first live video images over the 5G network to the control room. This demonstrates how quickly this type of solution can be implemented, says Alsos. – The next step is to demonstrate remote control of Frostabåten from the control room, explains Alsos. NTNU had planned four hours to set up the equipment onboard. They finished in just 30 minutes. Photo: Lars Bugge Aarset/Fremtidens Industri. Technology providing speed and efficiency Frostabåten is an electric hydrofoil developed and produced by Candela. It is lifted out of the water by computer-controlled hydrofoils, which reduce friction and energy consumption, provide stability and comfort, and extend battery range compared to traditional boats. Propulsion is provided by Candela C‑Pod motors with counter-rotating propellers, offering quiet, efficient, and maintenance-free operation. The combination of computer-controlled hydrofoils and direct electric propulsion makes the vessel highly energy-efficient and comfortable to sail. – The most important thing now is to show that this works in practice. The technology is mature, and the vessel has already been in commercial operation in Stockholm’s public transport for over a year. Now it’s about engaging people and decision-makers to show that this is a realistic solution in Trondheim Fjord as well, says Alexander Sifvert, director for leisure sales at Candela. Alexander Sifvert, director for leisure sales at Candela. Photo: Lars Bugge Aarset/Fremtidens Industri Broad collaboration across industry, research, and public sector The Frostabåten project is carried out in close collaboration between Frosta Brygge, Trondheim Port, Ocean Autonomy Cluster, MIDAS, Crazy Coyote, WTW, Login Group, Norsk Droneindustri, SINTEF, Maritime Robotics, and FI Ocean Space Incubator. NTNU, with Shore Control Lab, is a key partner for testing and research on remote monitoring and autonomous systems. Trondheim municipality and Trøndelag County are important public partners and contribute funding to the project. Mayor Kent Ranum attended the tests. Photo: Lars Bugge Aarset/Fremtidens Industri Foundation for further development and new routes The project has also attracted significant interest from county authorities. Trøndelag County has indicated plans to support the purchase of electric vessels and the development of new routes, including through the Klimasats program. – This is not just about one boat, but about developing a new mobility concept. Bus at sea, taxi at sea, and new connections that both reduce emissions and make better use of sea areas, says Hald. In January, a new and more extensive test period is planned with additional trips, public demonstrations, and further technology testing. Munkholmen could be one of Frostabåten’s stops. Photo: Lars Bugge Aarset/Fremtidens Industri Incubator role central FI Ocean Space Incubator has played a central role in structuring the project, connecting relevant actors, and enabling rapid progress. – This project shows how the incubator model can be used to realize complex, interdisciplinary initiatives. Here, mobility, maritime technology, research, and regional development come together in a concrete test and development project with significant scaling potential, says Hald. Head of FI Ocean Space Incubator Ingrid Sandnes and project manager for Frostabåten Linda Hald Photo: Lars Bugge Aarset/Fremtidens Industri Serial entrepreneur Terje Viken is a key driving force behind the Frostabåten project. Photo: Lars Bugge Aarset/Fremtidens Industri. The company Crazy Coyote provides both boat operators for Frostabåten and a support boat for photographers. Photo: Lars Bugge Aarset/Fremtidens Industri. Watch drone footage from the trial sail Drone photo: Frank Lervik/Screen Story", "author" : { "@type" : "Person", "name" : "Lars Bugge Aarset", "sameAs" : "https://www.linkedin.com/in/larsaarset/", "url" : "https://oceanautonomy.no/en-us/oacnews/author/lars-bugge-aarset" }, "dateModified" : "18/12/2025", "datePublished" : "18/12/2025", "headline" : "Frostabåten – Successful test sailing of electric hydrofoil in Trondheimsfjorden", "image" : { "@type" : "ImageObject", "height" : 400, "url" : "https://26558673.fs1.hubspotusercontent-eu1.net/hubfs/26558673/Frostab%C3%A5ten%20torsdag%2018%20desember%202025%20-%20Foto%20Lars%20Bugge%20Aarset%20Fremtidens%20Industri%20%286%29.jpg", "width" : 750 }, "mainEntityOfPage" : "https://oceanautonomy.no/en-us/oacnews/frostabåten-successful-test-sailing-of-electric-hydrofoil-in-trondheimsfjorden", "publisher" : { "@type" : "Organization", "logo" : { "@type" : "ImageObject", "url" : "https://26558673.fs1.hubspotusercontent-eu1.net/hubfs/26558673/Dark_yellow-fill_POS%20(3).png" }, "name" : "Ocean Autonomy Cluster/FI - Fremtidens Industri", "url" : "oceanautonomy.no" } } ``` ```json { "@context" : "http://schema.org", "@type" : "BlogPosting", "articleBody" : "Les saken på norsk What happens when a ferry starts taking over some of the tasks we normally associate with a crew, like navigation, monitoring and system checks, but still has a trained operator in control? And how will passengers feel when boarding such a vessel for the first time? These questions are at the heart of new research carried out on Frostabåten, an electric hydrofoil that will begin test sailings on the Trondheim Fjord in December. This initiative offers a unique opportunity to study human–autonomy interaction in real operational conditions, complementing prior laboratory-based research. A flying boat on the fjord Frostabåten uses the Candela P-12, an electric hydrofoil that lifts its hull out of the water as it gains speed. With less drag, the vessel becomes extremely energy-efficient, up to 80% lower consumption than traditional hulls, and can cruise quietly at 25 knots. For the Trondheim Fjord, this technology is a game-changer. It makes it possible to run routes that would be too small for large ferries, and it cuts travel time between Frosta and Trondheim to just 25 minutes. Se also: Frostabåten begins test sailings with electric hydrofoil on the Trondheim Fjord Studying the future passenger Alongside the technical testing, NTNU’s Department of Design is exploring one of the most often overlooked aspects of autonomy: the passenger experience. This part of the research was carried out as a master’s thesis project by master’s students Ane Solbakken-Melleby and Michelle Lous. Both completed their Master of Industrial Design at NTNU with a specialization in interaction design in the spring of 2025. Their study, “Designing Passenger Touchpoints for an Autonomous Ferry Service” (Solbakken-Melleby, Lous & Alsos, 2025), investigates how passengers respond when tasks normally handled by crew are automated or when no crew are immediately visible. Ane Solbakken-Melleby “We mapped the entire travel experience, not just the journey from quay to quay, but from the moment passengers considered booking a trip to the moment they arrived at their final destination,” says Ane Solbakken-Melleby. “This broader perspective allowed us to explore how Frostabåten could become a natural part of the full travel chain, working seamlessly with other forms of public transport so that the journey feels connected from start to finish,” adds They found that when passengers cannot rely on crew for guidance, the design of the environment itself takes on a critical role. Clear signage, intuitive wayfinding, and simple boarding processes become essential, while displays showing route information, vessel status, and safety instructions help build trust. Consistent and predictable interactions throughout the journey reduce uncertainty, creating a sense of reliability. In effect, thoughtful design becomes the passengers’ digital crew, guiding and reassuring them at every step. Michelle Lous. “One of the key findings was that passengers have very different perceptions of autonomy and different levels of trust in the technology. Trust is essential, and it must be built through elements that compensate for the lack of direct human contact on board,” explains Lous. “We saw that strong, consistent information flow throughout the customer journey was particularly effective. By identifying the points where trust needs are highest, we could focus our design efforts there, while acknowledging that these measures may only be a small part of a longer-term strategy to make autonomous services feel like a natural part of everyday travel,” Solbakken-Melleby adds. Research during test-sailing in Stockholm Photo: Ane Solbakken-Melleby Autonomous functions – with a human in charge A key part of Frostabåten is the testing of autonomous navigation support, energy optimization, and situational awareness tools. These systems are intended to make operations safer and more efficient—especially in winter conditions. But one point cannot be emphasized enough: The vessel is not crewless. A trained operator is always at the helm. Autonomous systems support decision-making; they do not replace the human. To study this, NTNU and the Shore Control Lab will stream high-quality video from the vessel to a shore-based control room. This allows researchers to explore long-term possibilities for remote monitoring, improved situational awareness, and new ways of supporting the operator during complex conditions. Candela P-12, hydrofoil ferry. Photo: Candela Se also: Situation awareness by design: Advancing remote operation of autonomous vessels A collaborative test arena Frostabåten is more than a single vessel. It is a shared test arena for Norway’s autonomous maritime community. The project brings together technology companies, designers, researchers and operators through partners such as the Ocean Autonomy Cluster, MIDAS, Trondheim Port, Frosta Brygge, FI Ocean Space Incubator, and Maritime Robotics. For Ocean Autonomy Cluster, the project offers valuable insight into how autonomous functions can be introduced safely, gradually and in ways that benefit both operators and passengers. NTNU Shore Control Lab. Photo: Lars Bugge Aarset/Fremtidens Industri Toward new fjord mobility The long-term ambition is to establish a scalable model for emission-free, fast ferry routes that can serve commuters, tourists, and coastal communities, first in Norway, and eventually internationally. As project manager Linda Cathrine Hald puts it, Frostabåten is “only the beginning.” The knowledge gained—from hydrofoil performance in rough conditions to how passengers respond to autonomy, will shape how future ferry services are designed. And perhaps most importantly, Frostabåten shows that even small vessels can become floating laboratories, helping Norway stay at the forefront of autonomous maritime innovation. Linda Cathrine Hald, Project leader for Frostabåten from FI Ocean Space Incubator. Photo: Lars Bugge Aarset/Fremtidens Industri Test-sailing Candela P-12 in Stockholm References: Ane Solbakken-Melleby, Michelle Lous and Ole Andreas Alsos. (2025). Designing passenger touchpoints for an autonomous ferry service. Journal of Physics: Conference Series, 3123, 012043. https://doi.org/10.1088/1742-6596/3123/1/012043 Read more about the project at Frostabåten project page", "author" : { "@type" : "Person", "name" : "Lars Bugge Aarset", "sameAs" : "https://www.linkedin.com/in/larsaarset/", "url" : "https://oceanautonomy.no/en-us/oacnews/author/lars-bugge-aarset" }, "dateModified" : "09/12/2025", "datePublished" : "09/12/2025", "headline" : "Frostabåten: A real-world testbed for the future of autonomous maritime travel", "image" : { "@type" : "ImageObject", "height" : 400, "url" : "https://26558673.fs1.hubspotusercontent-eu1.net/hubfs/26558673/P-12_Frihamnen-231110-16-2048x1365.webp", "width" : 750 }, "mainEntityOfPage" : "https://oceanautonomy.no/en-us/oacnews/frostabåten-a-real-world-testbed-for-the-future-of-autonomous-maritime-travel", "publisher" : { "@type" : "Organization", "logo" : { "@type" : "ImageObject", "url" : "https://26558673.fs1.hubspotusercontent-eu1.net/hubfs/26558673/Dark_yellow-fill_POS%20(3).png" }, "name" : "Ocean Autonomy Cluster/FI - Fremtidens Industri", "url" : "oceanautonomy.no" } } ``` ```json { "@context" : "http://schema.org", "@type" : "BlogPosting", "articleBody" : "Les saken på norsk In December, Frostabåten will begin test sailings on the Trondheim Fjord using the electric hydrofoil vessel Candela P-12. The tests mark an important step toward assessing whether an emission-free and energy-efficient route can be established between Frosta and Trondheim, a connection that currently has no boat service. The purpose is to develop a sustainable transport line on the Trondheim Fjord, and potentially also on its inner sections, that can evolve into an autonomy project, a tourism concept, and a commuter route. Frostabåten is inspired by the former ferry connection between Frosta and Trondheim, which was discontinued in 1947. The project will now examine whether modern electric hydrofoil technology can make a revival possible. Plan for testsailing Kenneth Tanem, Terje Viken, Kenneth Aakerholm, Linda Hald and Zilvinas Ciuzelis during test in Oslofjorden. Photo: Frostabåten A hydrofoil is a vessel equipped with underwater wings that lift the hull out of the water at speed, reducing drag and lowering energy consumption by up to 80 percent. The boat reaches a top speed of 30 knots. With battery-electric propulsion, range is limited to keep weight down. This vessel can operate up to 40 nautical miles (74 km) at a cruising speed of 25 knots, more than sufficient for shorter distances like the Trondheim Fjord. Smaller battery packs also reduce weight and improve energy efficiency. The result is a quiet, fast, and emission-free connection that can reduce travel time to around 25 minutes, a fraction of today’s driving time between Frosta and Trondheim. “On the Trondheim Fjord, this technology makes it possible to operate routes where the passenger base is too small for larger vessels,” says Terje Viken, initiator and CEO of Frostabåten AS. Terje Viken, initiator and CEO of Frostabåten AS. Photo: Frostingen Testing autonomous technology The autonomous technology to be tested will support the vessel operator in navigation and operations. Functions such as steering, energy optimization and navigation will be tested systematically in different sea states, including winter, cold, darkness, and the rough conditions commonly found on the Trondheim Fjord. NTNU and Shore Control Lab play an active role in the project, conducting research on how autonomous functions can support the operator during demanding conditions. “We will install a gateway on the vessel that enables the transfer of high-quality video from the vessel to a shore-based control room via the mobile network,” says Ole Andreas Alsos, head of the Shore Control Lab and Professor of Interaction Design at NTNU. This will allow the project to explore long-term possibilities for remote monitoring and remote operation from shore. NTNU will also map the passenger experience to support the design of future ferry services. Even with autonomous features, the vessel will not be crewless. It will remain operator-controlled, but the systems will provide decision support and operational efficiency. The test results will serve as an important foundation for further development of autonomous solutions. The research will document how the systems perform in varying wave, wind and temperature conditions and will contribute to further development of autonomous, emission-free operations on fjords and short routes. How the testing will be carried out The test period will run from Wednesday, 10 December to 19 December. From 8 December, training of operators will begin while the onshore and charging infrastructure is prepared for test operations. From 15 December, the active testing phase will start, including systematic sea trials, measurements of energy consumption and stability under different wave, wind and temperature conditions, manoeuvring exercises, and demonstration trips for invited stakeholders. The testing will continue until January 2026 and will provide a comprehensive decision-making basis for technology, operations, and potential future routes. Ole Andreas Alsos, head of Shore Control Lab and professor in Interaction Design, NTNU. Photo: Lars Bugge Aarset/Fremtidens Industri “This is only the beginning” The technology enables small, frequent departures instead of large ferries carrying only a handful of passengers. In many parts of the country, large boats with capacity for hundreds operate with only 20–30 passengers onboard – neither efficient nor economical. On the Trondheim Fjord, the hydrofoil makes it possible to run routes where larger vessels would not be viable. “This is only the beginning. Our ambition is to establish a scalable business model for autonomous fast ferries that can be used in several locations, first in Norway and later internationally. At the same time, the test model will provide technical data and help develop ecosystems and business models for emission-free and autonomous operations,” says Linda Cathrine Hald, project manager for Frostabåten at FI Ocean Space Incubator. Frostabåten will also explore how the tests can form the basis for an integrated transport system combining autonomous technology, commuting and tourism, with possible commuter routes from Frosta, Leksvik, Vanvikan and Munkholmen. Linda Cathrine Hald, project manager for Frostabåten at FI Ocean Space Incubator. Photo: Lars Bugge Aarset / Fremtidens Industri Project partners The Frostabåten test project is carried out in close collaboration with Frosta Brygge, Trondheim Port, Ocean Autonomy Cluster, MIDAS, Crazy Coyote, WTW, Login Group, Norsk Droneindustri, Maritime Robotics and FI Ocean Space Incubator, with NTNU and Shore Control Lab as key partners for testing and research on autonomous systems. The Municipality of Trondheim and Trøndelag County Council are important partners contributing funding. Next steps Frostabåten aims to develop a scalable model for autonomous fast ferries that can be deployed in multiple locations, both in Norway and internationally. The project will also test the potential for future commuter routes from Frosta, Leksvik, Vanvikan and Munkholmen, as well as tourism concepts based on year-round, emission-free transport. Facts about Frostabåten Planned route: Frosta – Trondheim Distance: 22 km / approx. 25 minutes travel time Vessel: Candela P-12 electric hydrofoil Capacity: 31 passengers Emissions: Zero local emissions Photo: Candela Contact Linda Cathrine Hald Project Manager, FI Ocean Space Incubator Phone: +47 976 74 134 Email: linda@fi-nor.no", "author" : { "@type" : "Person", "name" : "Lars Bugge Aarset", "sameAs" : "https://www.linkedin.com/in/larsaarset/", "url" : "https://oceanautonomy.no/en-us/oacnews/author/lars-bugge-aarset" }, "dateModified" : "17/11/2025", "datePublished" : "17/11/2025", "headline" : "Frostabåten begins test sailings with electric hydrofoil on the Trondheim Fjord", "image" : { "@type" : "ImageObject", "height" : 400, "url" : "https://26558673.fs1.hubspotusercontent-eu1.net/hubfs/26558673/P-12%20Elektrisk%20skyttelferge%20-%20Candela-1.jpg", "width" : 750 }, "mainEntityOfPage" : "https://oceanautonomy.no/en-us/oacnews/frostabåten-begins-test-sailings-with-electric-hydrofoil-on-the-trondheim-fjord", "publisher" : { "@type" : "Organization", "logo" : { "@type" : "ImageObject", "url" : "https://26558673.fs1.hubspotusercontent-eu1.net/hubfs/26558673/Dark_yellow-fill_POS%20(3).png" }, "name" : "Ocean Autonomy Cluster/FI - Fremtidens Industri", "url" : "oceanautonomy.no" } } ```