Construction start of Casco Bay Lines ferry at Senesco Marine
Illustration of Casco Bay Lines new ferry (Source: Elliot Bay Design Group)
A hybrid-electric passenger/vehicle ferry for Casco Bay Lines of Portland, Maine will enter the construction phase at U.S. shipyard Senesco Marine of North Kingstown, Rhode Island. The battery-powered vessel was designed by Elliott Bay Design Group (EBDG).
The 54.6m-long ferry will replace an exi¬sting diesel-powered vessel resulting in a reduction of carbon dioxide, helping to improve air quality in and around Portland. The hybrid-electric ferry has capacity for 15 vehicles and 599 passengers spread across three decks including a sun deck with views.
EBDG has supported Casco Bay Lines and their steering committee since 2018 as they prepared and planned for this replacement ferry, operating between Portland and Peaks Island, Maine. The contract design meets operational requirements, increased passenger demand and Casco Bay Lines' goal of reducing its carbon footprint. As part of the preliminary design efforts, EBDG prepared a propulsion selection study to compare various propulsion systems based on capital cost, operating cost, reliability, serviceability, carbon dioxide emissions, and in-port noise and exhaust generation. The result is a ferry that features ABB Marine & Ports' hybrid propulsion system supporting diesel-electric and zero-emissions battery-powered modes. With the ferry operating in zero-emission mode, the passengers will benefit from a smoother, quieter and cleaner ride. A shore charging system is also provided by ABB for rapid vessel charging in Portland.
