World’s First Fully Hydrogen-Powered Ferry Launched in San Francisco Bay

Beginning July 19, 2024, the vessel will provide free transportation from Pier 41 to the Downtown San Francisco Ferry Terminal.

The Sea Change marks an essential milestone in the maritime industry’s decarbonization efforts. The vessel will be part of the San Francisco Bay Ferry network for six months, demonstrating fuel cell technology as a feasible solution to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and improve air quality.

The vessel emits only water vapour, some of which is remineralized and reused in the onboard water fountain, making it the only vessel with drinkable emissions.

The Sea Change is owned by SWITCH Maritime and was developed with the California Air Resources Board (CARB) funding.

Sponsorships from Chevron New Energies, the Golden Gate Bridge, the Highway and Transportation Service, and United Airlines made the demonstration service possible. Blue & Gold Fleet, the contract operator for the San Francisco Bay Ferry, will manage the service.

Governor Gavin Newsom commended the initiative, stating that California is a global leader in combating climate change and pioneering technologies to increase renewable energy and reduce pollution.

The zero-emission Sea Change is a remarkable development.

Austin Knight, the Vice President of Hydrogen at Chevron New Energies, emphasized the partnership’s significance, stating that the vessel demonstrates commercial viability and increases customers’ confidence in hydrogen. Hydrogen can be essential in achieving a low-carbon future for public transportation.