Eastern Shipbuilding to Build Hybrid Ferries for WSF

Post by : Amit

Photo: Linkdin/Hill International Inc

Eastern Shipbuilding Group (ESG) has secured a contract to build five new hybrid-electric ferries for Washington State Ferries (WSF), the largest ferry operator in the United States. The move marks a significant step forward in WSF’s ambitious plan to cut emissions and modernize its aging fleet.

The new ferries, which will be built at Eastern Shipbuilding’s Panama City, Florida yard, are part of Washington State’s strategy to transition to cleaner, more efficient ferry operations in one of the nation’s busiest marine transit networks.

The vessels will use battery-electric propulsion systems, allowing them to run primarily on electric power with backup low-emission diesel engines. These hybrid-electric ferries will help WSF drastically reduce:

• Greenhouse gas emissions
• Air pollutants such as nitrogen oxides and particulate matter
• Fuel consumption and operational costs

Once in service, the ferries will serve some of the Puget Sound’s most heavily traveled routes, including the critical crossings connecting island communities to the mainland. WSF operates over 20 million passenger trips annually, making the environmental benefits of the new vessels significant.

This contract represents a new chapter for Eastern Shipbuilding Group, a company known for building complex vessels such as offshore supply ships, cutters, and ferries. By adding hybrid-electric ferries to its portfolio, ESG is positioning itself at the forefront of the maritime industry's push toward decarbonization.

• Advanced battery storage systems
• Diesel-electric hybrid engines for extended range
• Modern passenger amenities and ADA-compliant designs

“We are proud to partner with Washington State Ferries to build vessels that will help reduce environmental impacts while delivering safe, reliable service,” said Joey D’Isernia, ESG President.

The contract aligns with Washington State’s bold environmental commitments, which include:

• Cutting transportation-related emissions, the largest single source of greenhouse gases in the state
• Moving toward zero-emission ferries in the coming decades
• Electrifying terminal infrastructure to support charging capabilities

The hybrid ferries are seen as a practical and cost-effective way to bridge the gap until fully electric ferries become the standard.
The state’s Electric Ferry Program aims to convert not just new vessels but also existing diesel ferries to hybrid-electric power, dramatically shrinking the ferry system’s carbon footprint.

The multi-vessel contract is also expected to deliver significant economic benefits to Florida’s Gulf Coast, supporting hundreds of jobs at Eastern Shipbuilding’s facilities and across its supply chain. The company has invested heavily in expanding its steel production, electrical systems integration, and green shipbuilding expertise.

As ferry systems around the world explore options to reduce emissions and improve sustainability, Washington State Ferries is emerging as a U.S. leader in maritime innovation. The new hybrid-electric ferries will not only serve passengers more cleanly and efficiently but also set a standard for eco-friendly water transport in North America.
Construction is expected to begin soon, with the first ferry scheduled for delivery in the mid-2020s.

For Washington State residents and the wider maritime industry, this project represents a hopeful step toward cleaner seas, quieter harbors, and a greener future for ferry travel.

Hybrid Electric Power, Electric Ferry