Buckle up, maritime enthusiasts, because the Solent is about to get a whole lot greener. Red Funnel, in tandem with Artemis Technologies, has just pulled back the curtain on a game-changer in sustainable ferry travel. Picture this: a 100% electric ferry, slicing through the waves with the grace of a seagull and the silence of a whisper. That’s the Artemis EF-24 Passenger ferry, set to join Red Funnel’s high-speed fleet in 2026.
Now, let’s talk turkey. This isn’t just a fancy electric boat; it’s a technological marvel. The EF-24 uses advanced hydrofoil propulsion to lift its hull clear of the waves, slashing drag and wake. The result? A smoother, quieter ride and a massive reduction in emissions. We’re talking up to 3,700 tonnes of CO2e saved each year compared to conventional high-speed ferries. That’s not just a drop in the ocean; it’s a tidal wave of change.
Red Funnel’s chief executive, Fran Collins, is understandably chuffed. “This isn’t just a new vessel; it’s the beginning of a new era,” she declared at the recent demonstration event. And she’s not alone in her enthusiasm. Artemis Technologies chief executive, Iain Percy OBE, is equally bullish. “We’re establishing a new benchmark towards a more responsible and resilient maritime industry,” he proclaimed.
But let’s not get ahead of ourselves. This is a bold step, and it’s not without its challenges. Collins is frank about the road ahead. “The road ahead will bring learning and challenges, but that’s what it means to be brave, to innovate, and to lead,” she said. And she’s right. Innovation is never easy, but it’s necessary. Especially when it comes to decarbonising our seas.
So, what does this mean for the future of ferry travel? Well, it’s a shot across the bow of the status quo. If Red Funnel and Artemis can pull this off, it’s a clear signal that sustainable, zero-emission ferry travel is not just possible, but profitable. And that’s a message that’s sure to resonate throughout the maritime industry.
But it’s not just about the environment. This is about customer experience too. Collins is clear about the benefits for passengers. “The customer experience is better, smoother and quieter, both for those on board and in the vicinity,” she said. In other words, this isn’t just good for the planet; it’s good for business.
And here’s where it gets really interesting. The partnership between Red Funnel and Artemis is a masterclass in collaboration. By working together, they’re sharing the risk and the reward. It’s a model that other operators would do well to consider. After all, if we’re going to decarbonise our seas, we’re going to need to work together.
So, let’s raise a glass to Red Funnel and Artemis. They’re not just building a ferry; they’re building a future. A future where our seas are cleaner, our journeys are smoother, and our industry is more sustainable. And that’s something worth toasting. Here’s to the future of ferry travel. May it be green, may it be smooth, and may it be bright.