Water Roads acknowledges, respects and values Aboriginal peoples as the Traditional Custodians of the lands on which we walk, live and work. We pay our respects to Elders past and present. We acknowledge the diversity of Aboriginal people and their ongoing connection to their country, waters and seas.
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SYDNEY 2026
Launching
Australia's first zero-emission marine metro connecting Rhodes to Barangaroo in 15 minutes
TRANSFORMING SYDNEY HARBOUR TRANSPORT
Water Roads is launching Sydney's first marine metro service in 2026, revolutionising how people move across the harbour. Our flagship route will connect Rhodes to Barangaroo in just 15 minutes—57% faster than current options—serving key employment and residential hubs with metro-level frequency every 6 minutes.
Using advanced electric hydrofoil technology from world-leading partners Candela and Artemis Technologies, we're delivering"show up and go" service with 95% on-time reliability. The vessels"fly" above the water on computer-controlled foils, reaching 30 knots while using 85% less energy than conventional ferries. This provides a smooth, silent ride even in rough harbour conditions, with zero direct emissions.
Sydney faces chronic congestion costing $8.8 billion annually in lost productivity, with the Harbour Bridge and Tunnel at capacity.Water Roads provides a solution that's faster than roads, more cost-effective than rail expansion, and better for the environment. By activating underutilized waterways with proprietary technology, we're creating a new urban transport network at a fraction of the cost and time of traditional infrastructure—positioning Sydney as a global leader in sustainable transport innovation.
SYDNEY SERVICE
Connecting Sydney
Route 1: Rhodes ←→ Barangaroo
Key Stops:
• Rhodes (Parramatta River corridor)
• Barangaroo
Journey Time: 15 minutes end-to-end Distance: Approximately 14 km Time Savings: 57% faster than current land transport options (45 minutes by road/rail)
Additional routes under consideration:
• Parramatta River extensions
• Eastern Suburbs connections
• North Shore corridors
Subject to regulatory approval and demand validation.
Service Features:
Operating Hours:
• Weekdays: 6:00 AM - 10:00 PM
• Weekends: 7:00 AM - 10:00 PM
Service Frequency:
• Peak: Every 6 minutes
• Off-peak: Every 10 minutes
Fleet Capacity:
• Vessels: 30 passengers (Candela P-12), 24 passengers(Artemis EF-24)
• Initial fleet size: 6-8 vessels
• Daily capacity: 5,000+ passengers
Passenger Features:
• ✓ Planned Opal card integration - seamless payment withexisting transport card
• ✓ Real-time tracking via mobile app
• ✓ Wheelchair accessible - 100% compliance
• ✓ Climate-controlled cabins
• ✓ Free Wi-Fi onboard
• ✓ Smooth, silent ride - 95% wake reduction
• ✓ All-weather operation
IMPACT METRICS
Travel Time
15 Minutes
Rhodes to Barangaroo - 57% faster than current options
Service Frequency
Every 6 Minutes
Show up and go - metro-level convenience, no timetables required
Time Savings
70%
Compared to current transport options during peak periods
CO₂ Reduction
1,000+ tonnes
Zero-emission electric operation supporting Sydney's 70%emissions reduction goal by 2030
On-Time Reliability
95%
Metro-level punctuality you can depend on, rain or shine
Economic Impact
$178.5M
Generating jobs, tourism revenue, and property value growth across Sydney
ENVIRONMENTAL COMMITMENT
Protecting Sydney Harbour for Future Generations
Water Roads Sydney will eliminate over 1,000 tonnes of CO₂emissions annually compared to equivalent road transport, directly supporting Sydney's goal of a 70% reduction in greenhouse gases by 2030. Our electric hydro foil vessels deliver measurable environmental benefits across every dimension of sustainable transport.
ENVIRONMENTAL COMMITMENT
Zero Direct Emissions
100% electric propulsion eliminates 1,000+tonnes of CO₂ annually from Sydney's transport network, supporting NSW's net zero targets. Unlike ferries that emit carcinogenic particulate matter, our vessels produce zero local air pollution, protecting the health of 5,000+ daily passengers and harbour-adjacent communities.
WREI Metric
Energy efficiency of 0.25 kWh/passenger-km, with renewable energy share increasing from 50% to 80% by year 2.
85% Energy Reduction
Hydrofoil technology uses 85% less energy than traditionalferries—just 0.25 kWh per passenger-kilometre compared to 0.5 kWh forconventional vessels. Our vessels are charged using Barangaroo's renewableenergy mix (currently 50%, targeting 80% by year 2), with potential for 100%renewable integration through our Deep Power™ fast-charging infrastructure.
WREI Metric
Energy efficiency of 0.25 kWh/passenger-km, with renewable energy share increasing from 50% to 80% by year 2.
Minimal Environmental Impact
95% wake reduction compared to conventional ferries protects Sydney Harbour shorelines, seagrass beds, and marine ecosystems.Hydrofoil operation means the hull lifts above water, virtually eliminating wake damage to sensitive harbour environments. Zero fuel spill risk and reduced underwater noise (below 50 dB vs. 70 dB for diesel ferries) protect marine life and maintain harbour ecosystem health.
WREI Metric
Marine noise pollution reduced from 70 dB(diesel ferries) to below 50 dB by year 2, supporting SDG 14 (Life BelowWater).
Healthier Harbour Communities
Eliminates carcinogenic diesel emissions for 5,000+ dailypassengers and harbour-adjacent communities including Rhodes, Wentworth Point,Sydney Olympic Park, and Barangaroo. Diesel ferry emissions containWHO-classified carcinogens (PM2.5, NOx, VOCs) that contribute to respiratorydisease and premature deaths. Water Roads' zero-emission operation prevents15-25 premature deaths annually through improved air quality.
Health Impact
Protects vulnerable populations including children, elderly, and those with respiratory conditions from harmful particulate matter exposure.
IMPACT METRICS
Driving Sydney's Economic Growth and Innovation
The Water Roads Sydney project will generate $178.5million in annual economic impact while creating 1,430+ jobs across manufacturing, operations, tourism, and related industries. With a 3.6x economic multiplier effect, every dollar invested generates $3.60 in economic activity across the NSW economy.
Four Economic Benefits:
1,430+ Jobs Created
• 426 direct and indirect operational jobs - vessel operators, maintenance technicians, customer service, management, and support services
• 1,004 manufacturing jobs - vessel construction, component production, and supply chain development across NSW
• 20,417 tourism jobs - hospitality, experiences, and tourism services enabled by enhanced harbour connectivity
• 1,300 job-years in housing and infrastructure development unlocked by improved transport access
• 70% local content commitment - supporting NSW shipbuilding industry and advanced manufacturing capabilities on the South Coast
Job Quality:
High-skilled positions in advanced manufacturing, clean technology, and sustainable transport operations with competitive wages and career development opportunities.
$178.5M Annual Economic Impact
• $105M in annual operations - transport services, tourism, and related economic activity
• $73.5M in manufacturing phase - vessel construction and infrastructure development
• 3.6x economic multiplier - every dollar invested generates $3.60 in total economic activity
• $300M annual tax revenue across federal, state, and local government levels supporting public services
• 463 jobs per $10M investment - exceptional employment generation efficiency compared to traditional infrastructure
Return on Investment:
24% ROI with diversified revenue streams reducing financial risk and ensuring long-term sustainability.
$8.2B Housing Development Potential
• 16,500 new housing units enabled through improved transport connectivity to Rhodes, Wentworth Point, and Parramatta River corridor
• 2,475 affordable housing units - supporting NSW Government housing objectives and community accessibility
• 5-10% property value increase in connected suburbs due to enhanced transport access and reduced commute times
• Transit-oriented development - maximizing land use efficiency and creating vibrant, connected communities
• Sydney Olympic Park activation - supporting government-backed development zone with direct transport connectivity
Community Benefit:
Addresses Sydney's housing crisis by unlocking development opportunities in growth corridors while maintaining affordability targets.
$2.5B Annual Tourism Revenue
• $2.5 billion in annual tourism revenue through premium harbour experiences and enhanced visitor accessibility
• 2.5 million additional annual visitors attracted by innovative sustainable transport and unique harbour experiences
• Premium tourism product - positioning Sydney Harbour as a world-leading sustainable tourism destination
• $500M+ export potential - creating international technology sales opportunities and establishing NSW as a marine technology innovation hub
• Global innovation leadership - positioning Sydney as a benchmark for sustainable urban transport worldwide
International Recognition:
Establishes Sydney as the first city in the Southern Hemisphere to deploy electric hydrofoil metro service, attracting global attention and investment.
TECHNOLOGY PARTNERS
Powered by World-Leading Marine Technology
Candela
Specifications:
• Capacity: 30 passengers
• Speed: 30 knots (55 km/h) cruising speed
• Range: 50 nautical miles on a single charge
• Energy efficiency: 80% reduction vs. conventional ferries
• Charging time: 50 minutes (fast charge with Deep Power™ infrastructure)
• Wake generation: 95% reduction vs. traditional vessels
• Noise level: Virtually silent operation, below 50 dB
Candela is a Swedish pioneer in electric hydrofoil technology, founded in 2014 with over a decade of innovation in sustainable marine transport. They bring proven expertise in zero-emission vessels to Sydney Harbour, with exclusive Australian rights secured by Water Roads through CBS Group.
The P-12 Shuttle uses computer-controlled hydrofoils to "fly" above the water, reducing energy consumption by 80% compared to conventional ferries. With active stabilisation and wave-piercing design, the P-12 delivers a smooth, silent ride even in rough harbour conditions. The vessel's compact size and shallow draft make it ideal for Sydney Harbour's varied conditions and existing wharf infrastructure, enabling rapid deployment without major shoreside modifications.
The P-12 is already operating successfully in Stockholm's archipelago, with thousands of operational hours proving reliability, passenger satisfaction, and real-world performance in similar urban waterway environments. This proven track record provides confidence in the technology's readiness for Sydney's demanding operational requirements.
Artemis Technologies
Specifications:
• Capacity: 24 passengers (optimized for high-frequency service)
• Speed: 25-30 knots cruising speed
• Range: 60+ nautical miles
• Energy efficiency: 85% reduction vs. conventional ferries
• Charging time: Fast charge capability with proprietary infrastructure
• Autonomous systems: Precision navigation and docking
• All-weather operation: Computer-controlled foils adapt to conditions
Artemis Technologies brings world-class marine engineering expertise from America's Cup racing to commercial electric ferry operations. Founded by Olympic gold medallist Dr. Iain Percy OBE, Artemis applies cutting-edge hydrofoil technology developed for high-performance sailing to sustainable urban transport.
The EF-24 Transit features advanced hydrofoil systems that lift the vessel above water, dramatically reducing drag and energy consumption while providing exceptional passenger comfort. With 85% energy savings compared to conventional ferries and all-weather capability, the EF-24 is explicitly designed for high-frequency urban transit operations. The vessel's autonomous docking systems and rapid turnaround capability enable metro-style frequency with minimal crew requirements.
Artemis vessels are operating in Belfast Harbour and other European cities, demonstrating reliability and performance in real-world commercial service. Their proven technology, combined with ongoing innovation in electric propulsion and autonomous systems, positions Artemis as a global leader in sustainable marine transport. Water Roads holds exclusive regional rights for Artemis EF-24 Transit vessels in Australia.
MEASURING OUR IMPACT: THE WREI
A Global Benchmark for Sustainable Urban Transport
The Water Roads Environmental Index (WREI) positionsSydney's Node One (Rhodes to Barangaroo) as a global benchmark for sustainable urban water-based transport. This comprehensive framework measures environmental, social, and governance (ESG) impacts with transparent, data-driven metrics aligned with international standards and the United NationsSustainable Development Goals.
What is the WREI?
The WREI is a transparent, adaptable framework that quantifies the ESG impacts of Water Roads operations through standardized metrics aligned with three leading international frameworks:
International Sustainability Standards Board (ISSB)
Ensures investor credibility and environmental rigor through standardized climate-related disclosures and financial materiality metrics.
European Union Sustainability Measures
Provides sector-specific maritime metrics through the Corporate Sustainability Reporting Directive (CSRD) and EU Taxonomy for Sustainable Activities.
United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)
Ensures global resonance and social emphasis by mapping metrics to specific SDG targets.
This hybrid approach balances financial materiality, regulatory compliance, and global alignment—making the WREI adaptable for other urban transport projects worldwide while maintaining credibility with investors, governments, and communities.
WREI Framework Structure
The WREI measures impacts across three pillars with specific weighting reflecting project priorities:
Environmental Pillar
(40% Weight)
Minimize carbon emissions, energy use, and marine environmental impacts
Social Pillar (40% Weight)
Promote Indigenous inclusion, accessibility, and community connectivity
Governance Pillar
(20% Weight)
Establish transparency, ethical procurement, and stakeholder engagement
Key WREI Metrics & Targets
ENVIRONMENTAL METRICS (40%)
GHG Emissions Reduction
• Baseline: 0.4 kg CO₂e per passenger-km (diesel ferries)
• Target: Near-zero by year 2
• Framework Alignment: ISSB IFRS S2, EU Taxonomy (climate mitigation), SDG 13.2 (Climate Action)
• Data Source: Ferry emissions logs, lifecycle assessments
Renewable Energy Share
• Baseline: 50% (Barangaroo grid mix)
• Target: 80% by year 2
• Framework Alignment: ISSB IFRS S1, EU Taxonomy, SDG 7.2 (Affordable and Clean Energy)
• Data Source: Energy supplier contracts, charging logs
Energy Efficiency
• Baseline: 0.5 kWh per passenger-km (diesel ferries)
• Target: 0.25 kWh by year 1
• Framework Alignment: ISSB IFRS S2, EU Taxonomy, SDG 7.3 (Energy Efficiency)
• Data Source: Vessel energy records, operational data
Marine Noise Pollution
• Baseline: 70 dB (diesel ferries)
• Target: Below 50 dB by year 2
• Framework Alignment: EU Taxonomy (biodiversity protection), SDG 14.1 (Life Below Water)
• Data Source: Underwater noise monitoring
SOCIAL METRICS (40%)
Indigenous Employment
• Baseline: 0 jobs
• Target: 20 jobs by year 3
• Framework Alignment: CSRD ESRS S1, SDG 10.2 (Reduced Inequalities)
• Data Source: Employment records, Indigenous partnership agreements
Indigenous Procurement
• Baseline: $0
• Target: $500,000 annually by year 3
• Framework Alignment: CSRD ESRS S1, SDG 10.3 (Economic Inclusion)
• Data Source: Procurement audits, supplier records
Accessibility Compliance
• Baseline: 70% (Sydney ferries average)
• Target: 100% by launch
• Framework Alignment: CSRD ESRS S1, SDG 11.2 (Sustainable Cities)
• Data Source: Accessibility audits, passenger feedback
Modal Shift Achievement
• Baseline: 0 passengers shifted from road/rail
• Target: 1,000+ passengers daily by year 2
• Framework Alignment: SDG 11.2 (Sustainable Transport Access)
• Data Source: Passenger surveys, Opal card integration data
Community Connectivity
• Baseline: Limited waterway transport options
• Target: 5,000+ daily passengers, 16,500 housing units enabled
• Framework Alignment: SDG 11 (Sustainable Cities and Communities)
• Data Source: Ridership data, development approvals
GOVERNANCE METRICS (20%)
Sustainable Procurement
• Baseline: Standard procurement practices
• Target: 85% of suppliers meeting ESG criteria by year 2
• Framework Alignment: CSRD governance standards
• Data Source: Supplier audits, procurement policies
ESG Reporting Transparency
• Baseline: No formal ESG reporting
• Target: Quarterly reports and real-time dashboard by year 1
• Framework Alignment: ISSB, CSRD reporting requirements
• Data Source: Internal reporting systems, third-party audits
Stakeholder Engagement
• Baseline: Limited community consultation
• Target: Biannual consultations with Indigenous communities, government, and investors
• Framework Alignment: CSRD stakeholder engagement requirements
• Data Source: Meeting records, consultation reports
UN Sustainable Development Goals Alignment
Water Roads Sydney directly contributes to six UN SDGs with measurable targets:
Affordable and Clean Energy
• 80% renewable energy share by year 2
• 85% energy efficiency improvement vs. conventional ferries
• Demonstrates viable clean energy transport solution
Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure
• Smart technology adoption (autonomous systems, real-time tracking)
• Sustainable material use (70% local content, recyclable components)
• Innovation in urban transport infrastructure
Reduced Inequalities
• 20 Indigenous employment positions by year 3
• $500,000 annual Indigenous procurement by year 3
• 100% accessibility compliance ensuring transport equity
Sustainable Cities and Communities
• 1,000+ daily passengers shifted from congested road/rail
• 16,500 housing units enabled through improved connectivity
• Enhanced community connectivity across Sydney Harbour
Climate Action
• 1,000+ tonnes annual CO₂ reduction
• Near-zero emissions by year 2
• Supports Sydney's 70% emissions reduction goal by 2030
Life Below Water
• Marine noise pollution reduced from 70 dB to below 50 dB
• 95% wake reduction protecting harbour ecosystems
• Zero fuel spill risk protecting marine environment
WREI Reporting & Transparency
Real-Time ESG Dashboard
Public website displaying live metrics including carbon savings, Indigenous jobs, passenger satisfaction, and energy efficiency. Updated daily with operational data.
Quarterly Progress Reports
Detailed updates on all WREI metrics, progress toward targets, and emerging challenges. Published publicly and shared with stakeholders.
Annual ESG Reports
Comprehensive reports compliant with CSRD and ISSB standards, including third-party audit results, stakeholder feedback, and strategic planning for continuous improvement.
Third-Party Verification
Independent audits by recognized firms to validate data annually, ensuring credibility and alignment with international standards.
Stakeholder Consultation
Biannual consultations with Gadigal Traditional Custodians, NSW Government agencies, investors, and community representatives to refine metrics and ensure inclusivity.
Why the WREI Matters
For Investors:
Standardized, credible ESG metrics aligned with ISSB and EU frameworks provide confidence in sustainability claims and financial materiality.
For Government:
Transparent reporting demonstrates alignment with Sydney's 70% emissions reduction goal, housing objectives, and Indigenous economic participation targets.
For Communities:
Real-time dashboard and public reporting ensure accountability and demonstrate tangible benefits including cleaner air, Indigenous employment, and improved connectivity.
For the Industry:
Establishes a replicable model for sustainable urban transport that can be adapted globally, advancing the entire sector toward net-zero targets.
WHY SYDNEY NEEDS WATER ROADS
The Challenge:
Sydney's Transport Challenge
• Chronic congestion costs $8.8 billion annually in lost productivity, with commuters spending hours in traffic daily
• Harbour Bridge and Tunnel at capacity with limited expansion options and no viable alternatives for additional crossings
• Existing ferry services are slow and infrequent - 45+ minutes Rhodes to Barangaroo vs. 15 minutes with Water Roads
• Growing population in Rhodes, Wentworth Point, and Parramatta River corridor requires enhanced transport connectivity to unlock housing development
The Solution:
How Water Roads Solves It
• Bypass congested roads entirely using underutilized harbour waterways as dedicated transport corridors
• Deliver 15-minute Rhodes-Barangaroo journey - 57% faster than current options with metro-level reliability
• Metro-frequency service every 6 minutes eliminates timetable dependency and provides "show up and go" convenience
• Scalable capacity using existing waterways without billion-dollar infrastructure investment or years of construction
STAY INFORMED
Be among the first to experience the future of Sydney transport. Register your interest to receive exclusive updates on launch dates, routes, schedules, and early-bird offers for Water Roads Sydney.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
We're targeting mid-2026 for the launch of our flagship Rhodes to Barangaroo route. We'll begin trial operations in early 2026, with full commercial service commencing mid-year pending final regulatory approvals.
Water Roads will integrate with the Opal card system, with fares comparable to existing Sydney ferry services. Exact pricing will be announced closer to launch, but we're committed to ensuring Water Roads is an accessible, affordable transport option for all Sydneysiders.
Water Roads vessels are electric hydrofoils that "fly" above the water, making them 57% faster, 85% more energy efficient, and significantly quieter than conventional ferries. We operate at metro-level frequency (every 6 minutes) compared to traditional 20-30 minute intervals, providing "show up and go" convenience.
Our vessels feature computer-controlled hydrofoils that automatically adjust to water conditions, providing a smooth, stable ride even in rough harbour conditions. The technology is proven in Stockholm and Belfast, with thousands of operational hours demonstrating all-weather reliability.
Water Roads eliminates 1,000+ tonnes of CO₂ annually through zero-emission electric operation, uses 85% less energy than conventional ferries, and produces 95% less wake to protect harbour ecosystems. We're aligned with Sydney's 70% emissions reduction goal by 2030 and contribute to six UN Sustainable Development Goals.
Yes. Following the successful launch of Rhodes to Barangaroo, we plan to expand to Manly-Circular Quay, Parramatta River extensions, Eastern Suburbs connections, and North Shore corridors. Route selection is based on demand modeling, community consultation, and government partnership opportunities.