Red Funnel and Artemis Technologies have announced the transition to the construction and delivery phase of their next-generation electric ferry for its Isle of Wight services, following the completion of initial agreements in July 2024.
The Artemis EF-24 Passenger ferry, an electric foiling vessel, is expected to redefine sustainable ferry travel with zero emissions, according to the company.
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The construction of the Artemis EF-24 Passenger ferry is now underway, with crew training scheduled to start in December 2025 at Artemis’ advanced facilities in Belfast, Northern Ireland.
Artemis stated that the new ferry is expected to become a benchmark for efficiency in clean, sustainable ferry travel.
Artemis Technologies CEO Dr Iain Percy OBE said: “This is an incredibly exciting moment for the Isle of Wight and for Red Funnel, and I have no doubt that the team will carry this project over the line with the same passion and dedication that has brought us to this stage.
“The introduction of this cutting-edge technology presents a huge opportunity for Red Funnel to lead the way in sustainable ferry travel, setting new standards for the industry.”
The project is part of the initiative to decarbonise the Solent, the stretch of water that separates the Isle of Wight from Portsmouth and Southampton, for passengers, freight and military vessels.
In May, Red Funnel and Artemis will conduct live demonstrations on the Solent using a prototype vessel to exhibit the new ferry’s state-of-the-art electric foiling technology. These events aim to provide a glimpse into the future of ferry operations.
The Artemis EF-24 Passenger ferry aligns with the UK government’s Department for Transport’s Clean Maritime Plan and is expected to reduce CO2e emissions by up to 3,700t annually.
Utilising renewable electricity sources could further increase savings to around 4,150 tonnes of CO2e per year.
Red Funnel CEO Fran Collins said: “We’re thrilled to have reached this exciting milestone in our partnership with Artemis Technologies.
“Moving into the delivery phase is the next step in updating our fleet to align with our long-term sustainability and decarbonisation goals while also providing a resilient lifeline service for our customers.”
In October 2024, Sweden’s Maritime Administration contracted Artemis to supply an all-electric Artemis EF-12 Pilot boat, advancing the nation’s Fossil-Free Sweden Initiative and climate goals.
