Incat Crowther has commenced detailed design and naval architecture work on a hydrogen fuel cell-electric fast ferry intended for operation in New York, in partnership with zero-emission vessel developer Switch Maritime.

The 28-metre vessel, known as the ZEF-150, is being developed to carry up to 150 passengers at a cruising speed of 25 knots. The companies said it will feature 720 kg of compressed hydrogen storage, providing sufficient range for a full day of service across New York ferry routes.

The project is supported by a $2m grant from the New York State Energy Research and Development Authority (NYSERDA) under its Innovation and Research Advanced Fuels and Thermal Energy Research programme. Switch Maritime plans to base the demonstration vessel at the Brooklyn Navy Yard.

According to the project team, the ferry has been designed to mirror the operational profile of conventional diesel vessels, including service speeds and daily refuelling schedules. The hydrogen fuel cell-electric propulsion system eliminates the need for shoreside charging infrastructure or power grid upgrades, allowing the vessel to integrate into existing ferry operations without schedule changes.

The main passenger deck will include seating for 150 people, luggage storage, a kiosk, three bathrooms, including a wheelchair-accessible facility, and large windows to enhance the onboard experience.

Elias Van Sickle, co-founder and CEO of Switch Maritime, said: "Switch aims to provide operators with commercially viable vessels that future-proof ferry fleets. Our objective is to meet existing performance standards with drop-in solutions that don't require overhauling systems or schedules. And if it can be done in New York, it can be done anywhere."

Dan Mace, technical manager at Incat Crowther, remarked: "The design of this vessel showcases a feasible solution for mass transit operators looking to begin the fleet decarbonisation process, while maintaining existing operational profiles. The vessel's ability to drop into existing New York fleets is a real positive step to reduce emissions, and ensures the vessel can be deployed quickly without the need for constructing additional shoreside infrastructure."

The collaboration builds on earlier work between the two companies on Sea Change, described as the world’s first zero-emission hydrogen fuel cell-powered electric-drive high-speed passenger ferry, which is now operating in the California Bay Area.

Doreen M. Harris, president and CEO of NYSERDA, commented: "NYSERDA's partnership with Switch Maritime and Incat Crowther on the first hydrogen fuel cell-electric ferry is a catalyst for the future of zero-emission transportation in New York State. This demonstration is an impressive showcase for clean hydrogen as an emerging and innovative technology that is on the cusp of transforming how people move from place to place."

While the initial deployment is focused on New York, the companies said the design is suitable for longer, high-frequency commuter routes both across the United States and internationally.