Ready-to-debut public watercraft, unique to New York State, poised to transport New York residents to Governors Island
New York City's First Hybrid-Electric Ferry, the Harbor Charger, Set to Launch
The eco-friendly Harbor Charger, New York State's first hybrid-electric public ferry, is set to make its debut in New York City on August 13, 2022. This vessel will operate between Lower Manhattan and Governors Island, offering a cleaner, greener mode of transportation.
Key features of the Harbor Charger include a capacity to carry up to 1,200 passengers and 30 vehicles. It boasts a speed of 10-12 knots, which is up to 66% faster than the current diesel-powered ferries, enabling quicker trips to Governors Island.
The Harbor Charger is equipped with Siemens Energy’s BlueDrive Eco diesel-electric propulsion system, a BlueVault battery solution consisting of 122 lithium-ion batteries, and an EcoMAIN monitoring system that provides real-time control and status monitoring. Propelled by Schottel 360-degree azimuthing thrusters, the ferry offers excellent maneuverability.
Designed by Elliott Bay Design Group and built by Conrad Shipyard in Morgan City, Louisiana, the Harbor Charger required 465 tons of steel. Its hybrid system reduces carbon dioxide emissions by nearly 600 tonnes annually, with plans to cut another 800 tonnes once shore rapid power charging is installed on Governors Island.
The vessel's hybrid system, which consists of a battery-assisted mode, will further reduce carbon dioxide emissions. The Harbor Charger is expected to significantly reduce fuel and electricity operating costs compared to diesel-only ferries.
Clare Newman, president and CEO of the Trust for Governors Island, is excited about the Harbor Charger joining their fleet. She believes it represents a major step forward in clean, quiet, and efficient ferry transit for New York Harbor, supporting environmental goals and enhancing passenger experience with faster service.
Gov. Kathy Hochul encourages New Yorkers and visitors to take a ride on the Harbor Charger. Governors Island, where the ferry will dock, offers public art, bird tours, walking tours, bike rentals, and lots of nature. It has been open to the public for 20 years and welcomes nearly one million annual visitors.
Ages 65 and older and children 12 and younger are free on the Harbor Charger. There is a Hammock Grove Play Area on Governors Island with play structures and a large slide. More information about Governors Island can be found at govisland.com.
The Harbor Charger marks a significant milestone in New York City’s move toward sustainable, net-zero maritime transportation. It replaces the diesel-powered Lt. Samuel S. Coursen, which has been in continuous use since it was commissioned in 1956.
The Harbor Charger's name was chosen via a citywide contest with over 800 submissions, the winning entry coming from Brooklyn resident David Kurnov.
[1] Link to news article about Harbor Charger launch [2] Link to news article about Harbor Charger's design and construction [3] Link to news article about Harbor Charger's environmental impact [4] Link to news article about Governors Island [5] Link to news article about the Harbor Charger's impact on passenger experience
The Harbor Charger's hybrid system, a blend of battery-assisted mode and diesel-electric propulsion, is anticipated to contribute significantly to reduction in carbon dioxide emissions, aligning with New York City's environmental goals. The cleaner earnings from this hybrid model are also projected to minimize fuel and electricity operating costs compared to traditional diesel-only ferries, thereby demonstrating increased efficiency in both finance and environmental-science aspects. With faster transportation, the Harbor Charger promises to boost passenger lifestyles by offering a more enjoyable and eco-friendly mode of commuting, and as a result, attracting more interest from the general public and the industry.
