Wärtsilä to Power USA’s First All-Electric High-Speed Ferries in San Francisco Bay

Wärtsilä is set to supply the full electric propulsion system for three high-speed, battery-electric ferries set to operate in the San Francisco Bay Area. The vessels, commissioned by San Francisco Bay Ferry and built by All American Marine (AAM), will mark a milestone as the first fully electric high-speed ferries to be built and operated in the United States.

The agreement, booked by Wärtsilä in the first quarter of 2025, highlights the company’s extensive experience in delivering integrated electric propulsion solutions for zero-emission vessels worldwide. Wärtsilä currently leads the industry in the volume of battery power supplied to the maritime sector.

“These 150-passenger ferries represent a transformative step forward in sustainable and innovative marine transportation,” said Ron Wille, President of All American Marine. “We are relying on Wärtsilä’s technologies and expertise to help bring this groundbreaking project to life.”

The new ferries form part of San Francisco Bay Ferry’s Rapid Electric Emission Free (REEF) Ferry Program, an initiative aimed at transitioning the fleet to zero-emission propulsion. The vessels will connect the fast-growing San Francisco neighborhoods of Treasure Island and Mission Bay with the Downtown San Francisco ferry terminal, enhancing mobility while cutting emissions.

Wärtsilä’s supply scope includes a full electric propulsion package: batteries, electric motors, energy and power management systems (EPMS), integrated automation system (IAS), DC hub, transformers, and shore power supply. Equipment delivery is scheduled to begin in 2026, with the first ferry expected to enter service in early 2027.

Jan Othman, Vice President of Project Services at Wärtsilä Marine, described the contract as an affirmation of the company’s integration capabilities and its broader commitment to decarbonising the maritime sector. “This project is a bold step toward emission-free marine transport in the U.S. We commend SF Bay Ferry and AAM for their leadership,” he said.

Aurora Marine Design provided the concept design for the vessels, while Teknicraft will develop the detailed engineering. The ferries will be built to USCG Subchapter T standards, measuring 100 feet in length with a 26-foot beam and 5.9-foot draft. Each vessel will be powered by two 625-kilowatt electric motors, allowing for service speeds of up to 24 knots.

The initiative aligns with California’s broader climate goals and showcases how public transport can lead the way in transitioning to clean energy solutions.

Tags: Clean Tech, Decarbonisation, Green Maritime, Maritime Innovation, Sustainable, Wärtsilä
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