What is MV Sea Change?

July 18, 2024

The world’s first commercial passenger ferry powered by 100% hydrogen fuel, the MV Sea Change, was launched recently at the San Francisco Ferry Building.

About MV Sea Change:

  • It is the world’s first commercial passenger ferry powered entirely by zero-emission hydrogen fuel cells.
  • The 75-passenger ferry was built by All American Marine Shipyard for the compatriot shipowner SWITCH Maritime.
  • The vessel, designed by Incat Crowther, is fitted with hydrogen-powered fuel cells producing electricity to power electric motors, enabling the vessel to operate for about 16 hours, traveling around 300 nautical miles, between refueling sessions.  
  • It can reach speeds up to 20 knots, and its service speed will be about 8-12 knots.
  • It uses H2 fuel cells to generate electricity through the combination of H2 from storage tanks and oxygen from the ambient air.
  • Unlike current diesel-powered ferries that emit pollutants, the hydrogen-powered Sea Change produces only heat and water vapor as byproducts. Passengers can even drink the emissions from an onboard water fountain.