Sea Change: The First Hydrogen Fuel Cell-Powered Ferry in the U.S.
All American Marine (AAM) proudly delivers Sea Change, a 70-foot, zero-emission hydrogen fuel cell ferry, to SWITCH Maritime. Designed to carry 75 passengers in the California Bay Area, this groundbreaking vessel represents a major step in the decarbonization of the U.S. maritime industry, setting the stage for a sustainable, zero-carbon future.
Pioneering Hydrogen Fuel Cell Technology
Sea Change is the first hydrogen fuel cell-powered vessel in the United States, demonstrating the viability of zero-emission marine propulsion. Developed to showcase a commercial pathway for hydrogen-powered vessels, this ferry is a milestone in clean energy innovation.
Fueled by hydrogen fuel cells and electric drive technology, Sea Change eliminates emissions while delivering efficient, silent, and reliable operation. As the U.S. Coast Guard works on permitting hydrogen fuel systems for maritime use, this vessel will serve as a model for regulatory and commercial adoption.
Advancing Sustainable Maritime Operations
This project is backed by SWITCH Maritime, an impact investment platform focused on building the first fleet of zero-carbon vessels. SWITCH aims to help ferry operators replace aging diesel-powered boats with clean energy alternatives, accelerating the transition to decarbonized shipping.
“By working closely with the U.S. Coast Guard, technology partners, and leading shipyards like AAM, we can make the transition to zero-emission vessels a reality today,” said Pace Ralli, Co-Founder and CEO of SWITCH Maritime.
Built by Industry-Leading Innovators
AAM was selected to build Sea Change due to its expertise in hybrid-electric and advanced propulsion vessels. Constructed at AAM’s state-of-the-art shipyard, this ferry highlights the company’s ability to deliver custom, high-performance vessels that push the boundaries of marine technology.
A New Era for Clean Energy Vessels
“Hydrogen fuel cell technology will prove to be a robust alternative to conventional powertrain technologies,” said Ron Wille, AAM President & COO. “AAM is proud to build vessels on the cutting edge of technology, and Sea Change is a revolutionary step toward sustainable maritime transportation.”
Built at AAM’s Bellingham, WA facility, Sea Change is ushering in a new generation of clean energy ferries, proving that zero-emission marine transportation is not just a vision—it’s a reality today.
Specificatons | |
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Length | 72′ 7″ |
Beam | 24′ 6″ |
Draft | 4.5′ Molded |
Passengers | 78 + 2-3 Crew |
Engines | 4x Scania Di 16 082M |
Rating | 240 kW continuous |
Propulsion | (2) BAE Systems, 300-kW electric traction motor |
Fuel Cells | (3) 120 kW, Cummins HyPM R120 HD |
Propellers | (2) 27”, fixed pitch, 5-bladed |
Batteries | (2) Xalt, 50 kWh lithium-ion pack XMP71 |
Speed | 21 knots Cruise (Estimated) |
Features | Fuel (hydrogen), 246 kg (in 10 Hexagon Magnum high-pressure tanks, (8) 26”x225”, (2) 26”x95”); fresh water, 120 gals. |