Ready-to-debut public vessel, a pioneering ferry within New York State, prepares to transport New York residents to Governors Island
New York City's Eco-Friendly Ferry, Harbor Charger, Set to Launch
New York City is about to welcome a game-changing mode of transportation with the launch of the Harbor Charger, a hybrid-electric ferry set to begin service on August 13. This $33 million vessel, designed by Elliot Bay Design Group and built by Conrad Shipyards in Louisiana, is a significant step towards a cleaner and greener Governors Island.
The Harbor Charger, with a capacity to carry up to 1,200 passengers and 30 delivery or commercial vehicles, is poised to offer a quieter, faster, and more environmentally friendly service between Manhattan and Governors Island. Replacing the diesel-powered Lt. Samuel S. Coursen, which has been in continuous use since 1956, the Harbor Charger boasts a Siemens Energy BlueDrive Eco diesel-electric system with a BlueVault battery solution (122 lithium-ion batteries) and uses Schottel 360-degree azimuthing thrusters for precise maneuvering.
The Harbor Charger's diesel-electric propulsion system is more eco-friendly than fully gasoline-powered crafts, and its battery-assisted hybrid mode is expected to reduce carbon dioxide emissions by nearly 600 tons annually. This reduction in emissions is a significant step towards Governors Island's goal of providing a cleaner, greener mode of transportation for the nearly one million individuals who travel there each year.
The Harbor Charger's addition to the passenger ferries is a significant moment for the Trust for Governors Island. Clare Newman, president and CEO of the Trust, expressed her excitement about the addition, stating, "We are thrilled to welcome the Harbor Charger to our passenger ferries. This vessel represents a major milestone in our commitment to sustainability and reducing our carbon footprint."
Governors Island, which has been open to the public for 20 years, features public art, bird tours, walking tours, bike rentals, and lots of nature. The Hammock Grove Play Area on Governors Island includes play structures, climbing areas, and a curving, 57-foot-long, three-story-high slide. Ages 65 and older and children 12 and younger ride the Harbor Charger for free.
More information about Governors Island can be found at govisland.com. The round-trip tickets for the Harbor Charger are $5, but specific current prices for Governors Island ferry rides were not found in the available data.
Gov. Kathy Hochul encourages New Yorkers and visitors to take a "game-changing" ride on the Harbor Charger and experience the future of eco-friendly transportation in New York City.
| Aspect | Details | |-----------------------|---------------------------------------------------------------| | Capacity | 1,200 passengers, 30 vehicles | | Cruising speed | 10-12 knots (up to 66% faster than previous ferry) | | Propulsion system | Siemens BlueDrive Eco diesel-electric + BlueVault battery | | Environmental impact | 70% reduction in CO2 emissions (approx. 600 tonnes annually) | | Construction cost | $33 million | | Operator | New York Waterways for Trust for Governors Island | | Ticket prices | Not specified in available sources |
- The launch of New York City's Harbor Charger, an eco-friendly hybrid-electric ferry, signifies a significant step in the integration of environmental-science and finance within the city's industry, as it addresses climate-change concerns through the reduction of carbon dioxide emissions.
- The Harbor Charger's modern transportation system, equipped with a Siemens Energy BlueDrive Eco diesel-electric system and Schottel 360-degree azimuthing thrusters, demonstrates the advancement of science and technology, catering to a greener environment while maintaining a swift and quiet service between Manhattan and Governors Island.
- The economic commitment in developing the Harbor Charger, expected to cost $33 million, marks a substantial investment in the future of environmental-science and transportation, presenting a vision of a cleaner and more environmentally friendly industry within New York City.
