SWITCH Maritime has confirmed plans to build a liquid hydrogen-powered RoPax ferry for US operations. This announcement follows their successful launch of a hydrogen vessel in San Francisco Bay. The new vessel will replicate the design of Norway’s MF Hydra, a 300-passenger ferry. The MF Hydra currently operates regular services in Hjelmeland.
Key Features of the New US Hydrogen Ferry
- Passenger capacity: 300
- Vehicle capacity: 80 cars
- Service speed: 14 knots
- Fuel storage: 3,000kg liquid hydrogen
- Refueling frequency: Weekly
- Power system: PEM fuel cells with vaporized liquid hydrogen
Technical Partnership and Design Compliance
The ambitious project brings together three major players in maritime innovation. SWITCH Maritime will collaborate with LH2 Shipping and LMG Marin. The vessel’s design has already received DNVGL-class approval for international waters. However, additional modifications will be needed to meet US Coast Guard requirements.
Building on Previous Success
SWITCH Maritime launched its first hydrogen vessel, MV Sea Change, in San Francisco Bay. The launch marked a significant milestone in July 2024. The company worked extensively with the US Coast Guard to demonstrate hydrogen fueling safety. This collaboration established new protocols for hydrogen vessel operations.
The MV Sea Change demonstrates impressive technical capabilities in daily operations. The vessel stretches 70 feet in length and can transport 75 passengers. It maintains a consistent speed of 15 knots during service. The ferry’s PEM fuel cells generate 360kW of power for efficient propulsion. Its range extends to 300 miles on a single fuel load.
Norwegian Inspiration: MF Hydra’s Track Record
The MF Hydra began its operations in March 2023 on Norwegian waters. The vessel serves a six-mile triangular route between Hjelmeland, Skiavik, and Nesvik. Since its launch, the ferry has completed more than 50 successful liquid hydrogen refueling operations. The vessel demonstrates reliable performance using vaporized liquid hydrogen in its PEM fuel cells.
Future Implementation
SWITCH founder & CEO Pace Ralli expressed confidence in the project’s direction. “Our first hydrogen vessel proved the viability and safety of hydrogen fueling,” he stated. The company maintains close collaboration with the US Coast Guard throughout development. Ralli emphasized their readiness to advance zero-carbon liquid hydrogen fueling technology. The focus remains on developing solutions for heavier, higher-horsepower workboats.
The project represents a significant step toward sustainable maritime transportation. It combines proven Norwegian technology with US maritime safety standards. The new ferry will demonstrate the practical application of hydrogen fuel technology. This development marks another milestone in the transition to zero-emission maritime transport.
Read More: First US Hydrogen Train Begins Phase II Testing in California
