Commonwealth _ Red Funnel, a prominent UK ferry operator with origins dating back to 1861, has announced plans to revolutionize its Solent crossing service with a cutting-edge, emission-free high-speed vessel expected to debut in late 2025. Developed by Artemis Technologies, the pioneering vessel is an all-electric e-foiling passenger ferry, designed to operate above water on three foils, promising speeds up to 36 knots.
Artemis Technologies, unveiling the design in 2022, highlighted the ferry’s impressive specifications: a range of 70 nautical miles at a cruising speed of 25 knots, zero emissions, and enhanced efficiency. The company anticipates significant environmental benefits, projecting an initial reduction of 3,700 tonnes of CO2 annually, with potential for up to 4,150 tonnes when powered by renewable energy sources.
The vessel will accommodate up to 150 passengers, offering a smoother ride with reduced vessel motion and minimized wake effects during hydro-foiling operations. Red Funnel is poised to be among the first three ferry operators to adopt this advanced technology, with Artemis confirming the commencement of vessel construction in May 2024. As part of its development process, Artemis successfully demonstrated hydro-foiling technology with a 12-meter workboat operating in Belfast, showcasing its feasibility and performance.
Acknowledging the UK’s support for green technologies, Artemis has secured financial grants to advance its innovative solutions aimed at promoting sustainability in maritime transport. Red Funnel’s existing fleet of high-speed passenger ferries, which has served the Southampton-West Cowes route for over two decades, includes vessels like the recently sold Red Jet 4. Built in Tasmania in 2003, this vessel boasted two MTU diesel engines powering MJP waterjets, achieving speeds of 35 knots and accommodating up to 271 passengers.
Continuing its commitment to modernizing its fleet, Red Funnel continues to operate the Red Jet 6, commissioned in 2016, and Red Jet 7, launched in 2018. These high-speed ferries significantly reduce transit time to approximately 28 minutes, compared to traditional vehicle ferries that take around an hour for the 12-mile journey.
Artemis recently announced a partnership with DNV, a leading classification society, to ensure rigorous testing and certification processes align with international safety standards and DNV rules. This collaboration underscores Artemis and Red Funnel’s commitment to prioritizing safety throughout the testing and sea trial phases of the new high-speed vessel.
Looking ahead, Red Funnel plans intensive collaboration with Artemis in the months ahead, involving comprehensive testing and sea trials. Crew members will undergo specialized training to ensure readiness for the seamless integration of the new ferry into their high-speed operations. Red Funnel’s upcoming introduction of an all-electric e-foiling passenger ferry is poised to redefine maritime transportation in the Solent region. Developed by Artemis Technologies and backed by strategic alliances and government grants, this initiative represents a leap forward in both technological innovation and sustainable practices.
By adopting e-foiling technology, the ferry promises not only enhanced operational efficiency but also a significant reduction in environmental impact. With zero emissions during operation and increased energy efficiency, the vessel aligns with global efforts to mitigate climate change and promote cleaner transportation solutions. Artemis Technologies’ leadership in hydro-foiling design ensures that the ferry will ride smoothly above the water on its three foils, minimizing wake effects and enhancing passenger comfort. This innovative approach not only improves the overall travel experience but also sets a precedent for future developments in eco-friendly maritime transport.
Red Funnel’s commitment to integrating this cutting-edge ferry into its fleet underscores its proactive stance in advancing sustainable transport solutions. Beyond meeting regulatory requirements, the initiative reflects Red Funnel’s vision to lead by example in the maritime industry, prioritizing environmental stewardship while maintaining high standards of service and reliability.
