Red Funnel has partnered with maritime technology company Artemis Technologies (ATL) to introduce the zero-emission, electric e-foiling passenger ferry Artemis EF-24 Passenger in late 2025.
Electric e-foiling passenger ferry
Operation of Artemis EF-24 Passenger will save up to 3,700 metric tons of CO2e per year and using electricity from renewable sources will increase annual emissions savings to approximately 4,150 metric tons of CO2e, according to the companies.
In addition to reducing air pollution and noise, the fully accessible passenger ferry will use hydrofoil propulsion technology to ‘fly’ over waves, lifting the vessel out of the water to reduce drag and provide a smoother, quieter and more comfortable experience for passengers.
Red Funnel’s Southampton to West Cowes route is currently served by Red Jets 6 and 7. This addition to Red Funnel’s fleet will provide the first zero-emission commercial service between the South Coast and the Isle of Wight.
Decarbonizing Red Funnel’s ferry fleet
Fran Collins, CEO of Red Funnel, said, “We have been working with Artemis Technologies for several months to develop this partnership, and we are delighted to reach this exciting milestone as part of our journey to decarbonize our fleet. Delivering first-class service to our customers is our priority and the Artemis EF-24 Passenger ferry will provide speed, comfort and reliability as well as significantly reducing greenhouse gas emissions and air pollution.
“This is an important step towards transitioning to a sustainable and environmentally friendly fleet that will continue to provide a lifeline service for the Isle of Wight community both now and for future generations. We will be working closely with ATL over the coming months for testing and sea trials, including bespoke training of our High-Speed team so that we’re ready to add Artemis EF-24 Passenger to our fleet next year. In the meantime, it is very much business as usual for our teams and customers as we work behind the scenes on this exciting phase of our journey.”
Dr Iain Percy OBE, CEO of Artemis Technologies, added, “We are incredibly excited to partner with Red Funnel and bring the Artemis EF-24 Passenger ferry to the vital Southampton – Isle of Wight route.
” The EF-24 Passenger ferry represents a major leap forward in our mission to transform the maritime industry and futureproof our oceans and waterways. Air pollution impacts our health, damages quality of life, and harms our environment and oceans. By introducing the EF-24 Passenger, Red Funnel is taking a significant step toward mitigating these issues. The electric propulsion of our ferry not only eliminates air and water pollution but also reduces noise and wake, providing a quieter, smoother ride for passengers and minimizing impact on shorelines.
“This partnership with Red Funnel underscores our commitment to international maritime standards and paves the way to a healthier planet for all. Together, we are leading the charge toward a more sustainable future.”
For more of the top insights into Artemis Technologies’ electric foiling ferry, read Electric and Hybrid Marine Technology’s exclusive feature, here.
