First zero-emissions high-speed vessel launched between South Coast and Isle of Wight

Red Funnel has launched a new partnership with leading maritime technology company, Artemis Technologies(ATL). The partnership will introduce a high-performance, emission free vessel to its customers late next year. Red Funnel’s Southampton to West Cowes route, currently served by Red Jets 6 and 7, will be enhanced with the addition of a zero-emission, electric e-foiling passenger ferry (Artemis EF-24 Passenger).

Operation of the Artemis EF-24 Passenger will save up to 3,700 tonnes of CO2e per year. Using electricity from renewable sources will increase annual emissions savings to approximately 4,150 tonnes of CO2e. 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 ride for passengers. 

The Artemis EF-24 Passenger is a groundbreaking next step in the decarbonisation of the industry and Red Funnel is thrilled to join two other ferry operators adopting the technology to decarbonise their operations.  This addition to Red Funnel’s fleet will provide the first zero-emissions commercial service between the South Coast and the Isle of Wight. 

Red Funnel CEO, Fran Collins, 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 decarbonise 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, double Olympic and multiple world champion sailor and Belfast-based Artemis Technologies CEO, 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 Artemis EF-24 Passenger represents a major leap forward in our mission to transform the maritime industry and future-proof our oceans and waterways.

"Air pollution impacts our health, damages quality of life, and harms our environment and oceans. By introducing the Artemis EF-24 Passenger, Red Funnel is taking a significant step towards 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 minimising impact on shorelines."

The Artemis EF-24 Passenger will be ready for passenger service in late 2025, when it will join the Red Funnel Fleet.