05/04/2026
HAUGESUND, Norway – A new partnership between express boat operator Rødne and tourism company Viking Adventure has placed an order for an all-electric passenger vessel, aiming to deliver silent, zero-emission transport for both tourists and local residents around the Haugesund region.
The joint venture, named Cityboat, has commissioned a 15-metre Hyke F-15 Shuttle from maritime technology company Hyke. The vessel will be built by Herde Kompositt in Hardanger, using predominantly Norwegian systems and components, with delivery scheduled for the end of 2026.
Operations Already Underway with Leased Sister Vessel
Margaret Hystad, CEO of Viking Adventure and manager of Cityboat, confirmed that operations have already begun using a leased vessel of the same design. “The Hyke vessel offers our guests an unforgettable experience in close contact with the surroundings – free from noise, vibrations and emissions,” she said.
She added that the vessel opens new market opportunities for regional tourism. “The Hyke F-15 Shuttle opens a new market segment for us.”
No Dedicated Charging Infrastructure Needed
One of the vessel’s standout features is its ability to operate without purpose-built maritime charging stations. It can recharge using standard electric vehicle fast chargers or even ordinary household electrical sockets. Thanks to its lightweight design, the shuttle can complete a full day of operations without needing to recharge.
Halvor Vislie, CEO of Hyke, highlighted the vessel’s extraordinary energy efficiency. “The Hyke F-15 Shuttle uses about the same amount of energy as five hair dryers – it’s in a class of its own no matter what you compare it to.” He noted that the technology is already proven in public transport operations in Fredrikstad, Norway.
“This agreement is recognition that our vessel also meets the demands of a very quality-conscious group looking for unique experiences,” Vislie added.
Low Costs and Serial Production Ready
Lars A. Rødne, CEO of Rødne, said the company has followed the vessel’s development closely and sees strong potential for new routes. “With its groundbreaking design, minimal energy consumption and low operating costs, the Hyke F-15 Shuttle represents something completely new in the market,” he stated.
The vessel has been designed for serial production, which is expected to reduce both costs and delivery times for future orders. It also aligns with broader efforts to promote sustainable tourism in Norway’s fjord and coastal regions.
Early Passenger Feedback “Excellent”
Hystad reported that initial passenger response to the leased vessel has been highly positive. “It drew a lot of interest and passengers from day one, and feedback is excellent. If things continue like this, there will be more Hyke ferries both in Haugesund and in other cities.”
About Cityboat
Cityboat is a joint venture between Rødne, a leading express boat operator in Western Norway, and Viking Adventure, a tourism company specializing in nature-based experiences. The partnership focuses on zero-emission passenger transport in the Haugesund region.
About Hyke
Hyke is a Norwegian maritime technology company developing energy-efficient, all-electric passenger vessels designed for serial production and minimal infrastructure requirements.