SWITCH Maritime has received a certificate of inspection from the US Coast Guard for its zero-emission hydrogen-powered ferry, The Tidal Change, marking a significant milestone in the use of hydrogen fuel cells in the maritime industry. The COI will allow the vessel to operate commercially as a public ferry service in San Francisco, making it the first hydrogen-powered vessel in the United States. The certificate was presented by Capt. Taylor Q. Lam during a ceremony at the ship’s bow.
The Tidal Change uses hydrogen fuel cells to power its all-electric engines, providing operational capabilities similar to diesel-powered ships without the need for shore-based charging infrastructure. Following a launch event in June, the vessel will undergo a six-month pilot operation by the San Francisco Bay Area Water Emergency Transportation Authority. CEO Pace Ralli expressed excitement at the approval, stating that it demonstrates the feasibility of climate-neutral ships and marks a starting point for future developments.
With the COI secured, The Tidal Change is set to begin zero-emission public ferry operations, covering distances of up to 300 nautical miles at speeds of up to 15 knots. The six-month pilot service is made possible through public-private partnerships and sponsorships, including contributions from United, the Golden State Warriors, and various transportation entities. Plans are in place to integrate the vessel into a more permanent ferry route and to design larger and faster ferries for San Francisco Bay and other major ferry markets.
