Governors Island has launched the state’s first hybrid-electric ferry, the Harbor Charger, marking a significant step in sustainable maritime transport for the city. The $33 million vessel will operate passenger services between Governors Island and New York, replacing a diesel-powered ferry that had been in service since 1956.
The Harbor Charger can accommodate up to 1,200 passengers and 30 delivery or commercial vehicles, with cruising speeds of 10-12 knots, reportedly up to 66% faster than previous ferries.
The vessel features a Siemens Energy BlueDrive Eco diesel-electric system, a BlueVault battery-based solution, and the EcoMain technology platform, all supplied by Siemens. Designed by Elliott Bay Design Group, the ferry incorporates over 465 tons of steel and Schottle azimuthing thrusters, allowing 360-degree maneuvering.
David Turner, Project Manager for Elliott Bay Design Group, said the project demonstrates “the power of collaboration — between the Trust, Conrad Shipyard, Siemens Energy and a dedicated group of industry partners” to deliver a sustainable and well-designed ferry. Congressman Dan Goldman added that the Harbor Charger represents “a model for sustainable infrastructure that connects our communities while cutting carbon emissions and creating 21st-century jobs.”
The ferry received partial funding through a $7.5 million grant from the Federal Transit Administration. Governors Island, located in New York Harbor between Manhattan and Brooklyn, is accessible only by ferry and has been fully open to the public since 2019.
The island hosts historic sites, public parks, and cultural events, making the new hybrid-electric ferry a central component of its sustainable transport initiatives.
