Zero-emission vessels will replace diesel-powered counterparts
San Francisco Bay Ferry’s Board of Directors has authorized the purchase of three battery-electric, zero-emission high-speed passenger ferries from All American Marine Inc. (AAM) following a competitive bid. The order marks the first deliveries for SF Bay Ferry’s Rapid Electric Emission Free (REEF) Ferry Program, which aims to transition the agency’s fleet to zero-emission propulsion technology.
The first of the three 150-passenger vessels is expected to enter service in early 2027.
“Once again, the Bay Area leads the way,” declared Jim Wunderman, Chair of SF Bay Ferry’s Board of Directors. “This investment will connect new neighborhoods in San Francisco and lay the groundwork for widespread regional and national adoption of zero-emission water transit. This is an historic moment for SF Bay Ferry’s electrification efforts.”
The ferries will be built at All American Marine’s 57,000-square-foot facility in Bellingham, Washington. The company has three decades of experience in building aluminum vessels in the Pacific Northwest. Notably, they constructed two hybrid electric catamarans and the MV Sea Change, the world’s first commercial passenger vessel powered entirely by hydrogen fuel cells.
A $46 million contract was awarded for three new battery-electric ferries. The vessels will have a length of 100 feet, a beam of 26 feet, a draft of 5.9 feet, and a service speed of 24 knots. They will be powered by dual 625-kilowatt electric motors.
“These 150-passenger ferries mark a significant milestone in advancing sustainable and innovative marine transportation,” said Ron Wille, President and COO of All American Marine.
SF Bay Ferry will launch its naming process for the new 150-passenger vessels this spring. The final two diesel ferries purchased by the agency, MV Karl and MV Zalophus, are on track to join the fleet in 2025.
In addition to the new battery-electric vessels, the REEF Program includes conversion of four diesel 400-passenger ferries to zero-emission technology, terminal electrification across the system, and expansion and electrification of the agency’s Central Bay Operations and Maintenance Facility in Alameda.
Zero-emission vessels will serve new SF Bay Ferry routes connecting the rest of the Bay Area to Treasure Island and Mission Bay, two of San Francisco’s fastest-growing neighborhoods. The contract offers an option for a fourth 150-passenger vessel.
