Newest zero-emission ferries expected to launch in 2026
San Francisco Bay Ferry has just unveiled designs for the nation’s first high-speed, zero-emission battery electric vessels as part of its ambitious Rapid Electric Emission Free (REEF) Ferry Program.
The agency is seeking bids from American shipyards to build five battery electric ferries. Two 400-passenger vessels will serve Central Bay routes, while three 150-passenger vessels will connect San Francisco’s growing Treasure Island and Mission Bay neighborhoods.
“The updated design of the smaller vessels is focused on maximizing transit ridership and the rider experience,” stated SF Bay Ferry Executive Director Seamus Murphy. “That means doing everything we can to provide a service that is comfortable, convenient, frequent and fast enough to make transit the primary option for commuters and residents traveling to and from these growing neighborhoods.”
The new vessels promise to deliver passengers from Treasure Island and Mission Bay to Downtown San Francisco in as little as 15 minutes. Passengers will enjoy a spacious interior with extra-large windows and lounge-style seating, maximizing the stunning views of the Bay Area.
SF Bay Ferry’s REEF Program extends beyond vessel construction. It also includes plans for a new electric charging float at the Downtown San Francisco Ferry Terminal, electrification of the Treasure Island Ferry Terminal, and construction of a Mission Bay Ferry Terminal with electric vessel charging capabilities.
The first battery electric vessel is expected to enter service in 2026. San Diego-based Aurora Marine Design (AMD) collaborated with SF Bay Ferry and other REEF partners to complete the vessel design.
Shaun Green, principal at AMD, highlights the innovative aspects of the design: “This vessel is the product of a multi-year design effort, working closely with industry and the ferry operators to achieve the right balance of cutting-edge technology and robustness. The 150-passenger vessel really elevates the passenger experience with a fresh, modern design that paves the way for the future SF Bay Ferry fleet.”
The design features highly efficient propulsors for rapid docking, inherently safe battery technology supporting fast charging, and wider, self-deploying boarding ramps to improve disembarkation.
SF Bay Ferry has assembled an integration team for REEF to ensure seamless operation of the battery-electric vessels and infrastructure, prioritizing system flexibility, resilience, and cost-effectiveness.
After a thorough evaluation process, Swedish energy storage firm Echandia was selected as the battery supplier for REEF vessels. The company broke ground on a facility in Marysville, Washington in July, ensuring that the new zero-emission vessels will be powered by American-made batteries.
Earlier this summer, SF Bay Ferry launched a demonstration pilot service on Sea Change, the world’s first commercial passenger ferry powered 100% by hydrogen fuel cells.
The introduction of these zero-emission vessels is expected to significantly reduce the carbon footprint of the Bay Area’s ferry system while providing an enhanced travel experience for commuters and tourists alike. As cities worldwide grapple with the challenges of climate change and urban mobility, San Francisco’s initiative could serve as a model for other coastal cities looking to reduce emissions and improve public transportation options.
