Red Funnel showcases future of clean maritime travel with Artemis Technologies demonstration ferry

22 May 2025 – Red Funnel, in partnership with Artemis Technologies, has opened a new chapter in sustainable ferry travel with a successful demonstration of the technology underpinning the Artemis EF-24 Passenger ferry at the Royal Yacht Squadron in Cowes. 

Hosted by Red Funnel CEO Fran Collins and Artemis Technologies CEO Dr Iain Percy OBE, the shoreside event welcomed over 75 guests, industry leaders and Island representatives aboard the 12-metre demonstration vessel, offering guests the opportunity to experience the same clean maritime technology which will power the Artemis EF-24 Passenger ferry. The 100% electric Artemis EF-24 Passenger will join Red Funnel’s Hi-Speed fleet in 2026, in a significant step toward decarbonising maritime travel.

The 100% electric Artemis EF-24 Passenger ferry is designed to carry up to 150 passengers, creating zero emissions in operation. Using advanced hydrofoil propulsion to lift its hull clear of the waves, it significantly reduces drag and wake. Once in service, it is expected to save up to 3,700 tonnes of CO₂e each year compared with conventional high-speed ferries – eliminating local emissions while offering a quieter, smoother ride.

Fran Collins, Red Funnel CEO, said: “This moment has been a long time in the making. Six years ago, we made a bold commitment to a cleaner, greener future, and today, we were thrilled to share a glimpse of that future with so many guests. It was wonderful to see and hear such incredibly positive feedback from those who joined us. 

“Our partnership with Artemis Technologies marks a pioneering step forward, not just for Red Funnel but for sustainable maritime transport across the Solent. This isn’t just a new vessel; it’s the beginning of a new era – defined by zero-emission technology, a smoother passenger experience, and a shared ambition to decarbonise ferry travel. The road ahead will bring learning and challenges, but that’s what it means to be brave, to innovate, and to lead. Together with Artemis, we’re proud to be doing something truly different.” 

Dr Iain Percy, Artemis Technologies CEO, commented: “Our collaboration with Red Funnel highlights a shared commitment to upholding global maritime sustainability standards and shaping a cleaner future for all. The Artemis EF-24 Passenger ferry represents a major leap forward in our mission to transform the maritime industry and future-proof our oceans and waterways.
“We have combined cutting-edge design with advanced hydrofoil technology to create a vessel that not only reduces emissions but also enhances performance and comfort. Together, we are establishing a new benchmark towards a more responsible and resilient maritime industry.” 

Next steps include crew training using Artemis Technologies’ state-of-the-art simulator for Red Funnel’s high-speed team. Naming the vessel will be the next milestone, and Red Funnel will be reaching out to customers and local residents to be part of this process.

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About Red Funnel
Red Funnel is the original Isle of Wight ferry company with roots tracing back to 1820. Based in the UK port of Southampton, Red Funnel carries 2.3m passengers and over 800,000 vehicles on its ferry route between the UK port of Southampton and East Cowes and 1.1m passengers between Southampton and West Cowes on its Red Jet Hi-Speed service. 

In addition to ferry travel, Red Funnel is the only cross-Solent operator to offer ferry inclusive bonded holiday accommodation, attraction tickets, festival and event tickets and activity packages. Sub-brands include ‘Red Jet’ (the Hi-Speed passenger only ferry service serving West Cowes) and its on board café, ‘ReFuel’. 

The Company is a founding member of Visit Isle of Wight Ltd, the Island’s not for profit destination management organisation. Red Funnel is also proud to sponsor and support most of the Island’s premier events including the IW Festival, Cowes Week, Wight Proms, and Walk the Wight alongside a wide range of other community and niche interest events. Red Funnel’s Charity of the Year is Hampshire and Isle of Wight Air Ambulance. 

For more information, visit www.redfunnel.co.uk. 

About Artemis Technologies

Based in Belfast, Northern Ireland, Artemis Technologies is at the forefront of the maritime industry’s push towards decarbonisation. With global manufacturing capabilities and a strategic office in New York, their revolutionary Artemis eFoiler® electric propulsion system, featuring a high-voltage battery energy storage system and ultra-high power density electric drivetrain, sets a new standard in maritime transport. The Artemis EF-12 Workboat XL is part of a range of 100% electric foiling vessels designed for commercial use. Other vessels from Artemis Technologies include the all-electric Artemis EF-12 Pilot boat, the Artemis EF-24 Passenger, a 150-passenger ferry, and a luxury water taxi, the Artemis EF-12 Escape. 

Find out more about the Artemis EF-12 Workboat XL: https://www.artemistechnologies.co.uk/ef-12-workboat-xl