Atlantic Fast Ferry and FasterCapital Partner to Launch Fast Ferries for West Africa

LAGOS, Nigeria - Oct. 5, 2025 - PRLog -- Atlantic Fast Ferry Limited and FasterCapital (https://fastercapital.com/) have announced a strategic partnership under FasterCapital's Equitypilot program to accelerate the rollout of high-speed passenger and cargo ferries on West Africa's coastal routes. The initiative will connect Lagos and Tema (Ghana) through same-day voyages, reducing long, unsafe road trips with the aid of capital, mentorship, and go-to-market support..

Market Opportunity & Problem

West Africa's transport system remains inefficient and risky.
Current road trips from Lagos to Ghana (467 km) take 20–36 hours, worsened by checkpoints, insecurity, and cargo delays. Airfreight is costly, while maritime alternatives are scarce.

The region's traders, students, tourists, and officials represent a multi-million-dollar market underserved by existing options. The opportunity lies in reliable, scheduled fast-ferry services that cut travel time to 8–9 hours while ensuring safety and RORO cargo capacity.

Startup Solution & Differentiation

Founded by Yinka Olaipe (MICS) and backed by maritime experts, Atlantic Fast Ferry will operate high-speed day ferries with multiple passenger classes, RORO decks, and amenities like Wi-Fi, F&B, and entertainment.

Proposed vessels include MV Pilot Glory (301 passengers + 113 tons cargo) and sister ships designed for swift deployment. The model emphasizes safety, punctuality, and affordability (fares from $120 one-way). Early pilots like BoatCruise Nigeria and Bukyson Maritime Services' legacy add operational credibility and customer validation..

FasterCapital Partnership Value

Through the Equitypilot program, Atlantic Fast Ferry gains access to FasterCapital's capital, regulatory guidance, product-market fit mentoring, and investor introductions. The collaboration validates commercial potential and accelerates market entry.

Both partners target the first Lagos–Tema voyages within 12–18 months, alongside fundraising for vessel acquisition and regional permits.

Executive Quotes

Hesham Zreik:

"We invest in scalable infrastructure solutions that unlock regional trade corridors. Atlantic Fast Ferry addresses a clear transport gap with an experienced team and an economically compelling model a fit for FasterCapital's Equitypilot acceleration and capital deployment thesis."

Yinka Olaipe, Founder/CEO, Atlantic Fast Ferry:

"FasterCapital's partnership combines our maritime heritage with capital and acceleration support to deliver safe, timely, and affordable coastal transport across West Africa"

Growth Trajectory & Future Plans

Near-term focus includes vessel acquisition, port clearances, and marketing to traders and tourism operators. Over 36 months, Atlantic Fast Ferry plans fleet expansion, adding routes to Abidjan and beyond.

About Atlantic Fast Ferry Limited

Atlantic Fast Ferry Limited (CR №7568090 Nig.) is a Lagos-based maritime startup spun out of Bukyson Maritime Services, offering fast passenger and RORO ferry operations across West Africa.

About FasterCapital

Founded in 2014, FasterCapital is a global venture builder supporting startups with funding, business development, and technical expertise through programs like Equitypilot and LaunchUp.

Rasha Almasri:
rasha.almasri@fastercapital.com
+1 (512) 400–0256