/ 
Construction of the future electric ferry for Concarneau has entered its industrial phase with the installation of the first float at MerConcept?s facilities. This public transit vessel, expected to enter service in November 2026, will replace the ferry that currently makes nearly 300,000 crossings each year between the two sides of the Port of Concarneau, a distance of just 120 meters.
Beyond this local market, this program marks a new phase in MerConcept?s diversification strategy; the company has historically specialized in offshore racing engineering.
A collaborative project led by several companies in Brittany
The City of Concarneau has entrusted the project management and execution to a consortium of several specialized companies. MerConcept is leading the overall design and construction of the composite platform, alongside CT Mer Forte for naval architecture, Alternatives Énergies for the integration of the electric propulsion system, and Kairos for eco-design and environmental monitoring.
The construction of the first float was entrusted to IDB Marine, another well-known player in the Breton marine industry.
A design focused on operating costs
The future ferry measures 11.90 m in length and 4.20 m in width and will be able to carry up to 45 passengers, two people with limited mobility, and eight bicycles. The vessel will be powered by two 27-kW electric motors. Its maximum speed will reach 8 knots, which is appropriate for this very short route.
The design was conceived to minimize energy consumption through reduced mass, an optimized hull shape to decrease hydrodynamic drag, and the use of composite materials incorporating locally produced flax fibers. Solar panels will also help power the onboard equipment.
In addition to reducing emissions, this approach also aims to control operating costs and maintenance expenses throughout the ship's service life.
A Demonstrator for Future Maritime Mobility
For MerConcept, this electric ferry is more than just a service vessel. The company hopes to use this project as a demonstration for local governments, port operators, and public transportation operators.
The concept is intended to be adapted for use on other coastal routes, island connections, and harbor crossings, as well as on lakes, rivers, and areas with shallow water.
This direction reaffirms the company's commitment to leveraging the skills acquired in offshore racing to tap into new professional markets.
Technology Transfer in Offshore Racing
For several years now, MerConcept has been pursuing a technology transfer strategy. The work conducted on competitive multihulls is now being applied to the development of more energy-efficient commercial vessels. In particular, the company is working on foiling catamarans designed for high-speed passenger transport. According to MerConcept, this technology reduces energy consumption by up to 40% compared to a conventional hull, while improving comfort by reducing vibration and noise.
At the same time, the company is participating in the development of the VELA cargo trimaran, which is expected to be completed by the end of 2026. This program draws on MerConcept?s expertise in naval architecture, weather routing, sail systems, and energy performance optimization.
Through these various projects, the company is gradually building a comprehensive portfolio of solutions for low-carbon maritime transport, ranging from public transport vessels to sail-powered cargo ships.
