The Harbor Charger – the first hybrid-electric public ferry to operate in New York State – went into service on August 13. The arrival of the new boat, which will serve Governors Island’s growing community of visitors and tenants, coincides with the 20-year anniversary of the island opening to the public.
“Twenty years ago, Governors Island opened to the public for the first time, creating a green, clean, sustainable space for New Yorkers to enjoy. Today, we are doubling down on that legacy with the launch of this first-of-its-kind electric ferry,” said New York City Mayor Eric Adams. “From the hikers who will visit the island’s trails to the scientists who will work at its world-class Climate Exchange, the Harbor Charger will carry New Yorkers and visitors alike into the future and deliver a safer, healthier city for all.”
“With the Harbor Charger, we are not just launching a new ferry – we are charting a course toward a cleaner, more sustainable future for New York City,” added Adolfo Carrión, deputy mayor for housing, workforce and economic development. “Thanks to the city’s capital investment, this state-of-the-art vessel will cut hundreds of tons of emissions each year while bringing visitors to Governors Island faster and more efficiently than ever. It is a milestone in our maritime history and a major step toward building more sustainable and innovative waterways.”
The Harbor Charger is equipped with Siemens Energy‘s BlueDrive Eco diesel-electric propulsion system, its BlueVault battery-based solution, and EcoMAIN – a technology platform that enables the operator to constantly monitor the equipment. The hybrid propulsion system reduces air pollution by enabling the boat’s systems to toggle between three modes: zero-emissions, battery-only power, and battery assisted hybrid with diesel backup. The battery-assisted hybrid mode will reduce carbon dioxide emissions by nearly 600 tons annually. Once shoreside charging facilities are installed, which are currently in the design phase, the vessel will reduce emissions by an additional 800 tons annually.
“Equipped with our hybrid propulsion system, battery storage and real-time control platform, this vessel will be reliable, highly efficient and produce significantly fewer emissions,” said Rich Voorberg, president of Siemens Energy for North America. “And we have laid the foundation for fully electric operation in the future. The combination of these innovations will make for a cleaner, smoother ride and, hopefully, a wonderful visit to Governors Island.”
The Harbor Charger was designed by Elliott Bay Design Group (EBDG) and required more than 465 tons of steel. Enhanced maneuvering capabilities use Schottel azimuthing thrusters featuring 360° steering. This is the second ferry boat EBDG has designed for the Trust – the passenger-only Governors 1, built by Blount Boats, went into service in 2019.
“We are proud to continue our support of The Trust for Governors Island in their pursuit of cleaner marine transportation in New York Harbor,” added David Turner, project manager, Elliott Bay Design Group. “EBDG’s team of marine engineers and designers provided contract design and then acted as owner’s representative throughout construction of the Harbor Charger. This vessel is a testament to the power of collaboration – between the Trust, Conrad Shipyard, Siemens Energy and a dedicated group of industry partners. Together, we’ve helped bring a sustainable and beautifully designed ferry to life.”
“Conrad Shipyard is deeply honored to have partnered with the Trust for Governors Island to build and deliver the Harbor Charger to the people of New York City,” agreed said Johnny Conrad, executive chairman of Conrad Shipyard. “This ferry is a vital link connecting New Yorkers to one of their most treasured public spaces. At Conrad Shipyard, we understand the responsibility that comes with building infrastructure that serves the public, and we approached this project with the same commitment to safety, quality, and integrity that has defined our company for decades. Working with the Trust has been exceptional. Their vision for reliable, safe transportation to Governors Island aligns perfectly with our values of delivering vessels that operators can depend on day after day, season after season. We’re proud to support New York City’s maritime infrastructure and look forward to seeing the Harbor Charger serve the community for many years to come.”
The Harbor Charger has a capacity of up to 1,200 passengers and 30 vehicles for Island deliveries and services, and boasts an increased cruising speed of 10-12kts. It will replace the diesel-powered Lt Samuel S Coursen – the Trust’s current vehicle and passenger ferry that was commissioned by the US Army in 1956 and has been in continuous use ever since. Later this year, the Lt Samuel S Coursen will retire from service.
In related news, Scandlines’ new €80m (US$94m) hybrid-electric ferry has completed its second sea trial in the Sea of Marmara near Turkey and is preparing for its journey to the Fehmarnbelt. Read the full story
