On October 16th, Les Sables d’Olonne Agglomération inaugurated two new electric vessels, Le Noroît and Le Suroît, specially designed by NepTech to offer a sustainable and innovative maritime transport solution. These electric vessels, which will enter service on October 19th, meet the growing demand from users, with nearly 900,000 passengers annually, including 361,838 in 2023 alone, a number that continues to rise (+6% compared to 2022).

An inauguration under challenging weather

Yannick Moreau’s speech at the inauguration of the maritime shuttles

Despite challenging weather, Yannick Moreau, Mayor of Les Sables d’Olonne and President of the Agglomération, accompanied by his team, attended the first official navigation of these electric vessels. He praised their comfort, their ability to evolve towards hydrogen propulsion (H2 ready), and their innovative design. NepTech, in partnership with Chantier de l’Arsenal in La Rochelle and Alternatives Energies for propulsion system integration, once again demonstrated its expertise in creating low-carbon maritime solutions. NepTech’s know-how was essential in the design of these 100% electric vessels, which are ready to meet the current and future challenges of sustainable maritime transport. 

Next-generation electric vessels

Measuring 11.90 meters, these electric vessels can carry 50 passengers, including 2 with reduced mobility (PRM), as well as 8 bicycles—twice as many as the previous ferries. Serving key stops around the port of Les Sables d’Olonne (La Chaume, city center, Port Olona) on a daily basis, these ferries not only provide a practical solution for residents and visitors, but are also ready to transition to green hydrogen, an innovation that strengthens their positioning as low-environmental-impact vessels.

Ready for the Vendée Globe

With the upcoming Vendée Globe, these electric vessels will play a central role in managing the expected passenger flow during this global event. The Agglomération has introduced adjusted schedules and special pricing to encourage the use of these ferries, ensuring smooth and continuous navigation between different access points. This partnership demonstrates the strong commitment of Les Sables d’Olonne Agglomération to cleaner and more efficient mobility.

100% French expertise for a sustainable future

These electric vessels are the result of a 100% French collaboration, highlighting NepTech’s expertise in sustainable maritime mobility. NepTech, as a key player in the project, thanks its partners and Les Sables d’Olonne Agglomération for their trust. This project illustrates NepTech’s ability to design innovative vessels capable of adapting to current needs while anticipating future requirements, such as the transition to hydrogen propulsion systems.