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Marine Log’s 38th annual FERRIES Conference will return to Jersey City, N.J., on November 4–5, 2025, directly across from Lower Manhattan. The event will gather ferry operators, shipbuilders, and policymakers to explore the future of passenger vessel operations.
One of the key sessions will be led by Seamus Murphy, executive director of San Francisco Bay Ferry/WETA, titled “From Concept to Contract: Real-World Zero-Emission Ferry Deployment.” Murphy will highlight the agency’s ambitious Rapid Electric Emission Free (REEF) Program, which is driving the introduction of zero-emission high-speed ferries and charging infrastructure across the Bay Area.
Major REEF milestones over the past year include:
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Advancing the design of Universal Charging Floats to the procurement stage.
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Completing design and awarding contracts for the nation’s first zero-emission fast ferries.
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Successfully demonstrating hydrogen fuel viability through the operation of the M/V Sea Change.
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Authorizing the purchase of America’s first three battery-electric, high-speed passenger ferries under a $46 million contract with All American Marine Inc. of Bellingham, Wash., with an option for a fourth vessel.
Each ferry will accommodate 150 passengers and provide high-speed, fully electric service. The first of these vessels is expected to enter the fleet in early 2027, marking a landmark achievement for both the Bay Area and zero-emission ferry operations nationwide.
During his presentation, Murphy will share lessons learned in advancing these pioneering projects from initial concept to signed contract, offering valuable insights into procurement, infrastructure planning, and the challenges of deploying next-generation technologies.
In addition to Murphy’s session, FERRIES 2025 will deliver two days of technical panels, case studies, and networking opportunities, featuring leading voices from operators, shipyards, regulators, and technology innovators across North America and beyond.
