Overview

• The Harbor Charger entered passenger service on August 13 after its christening, becoming New York’s first hybrid-electric public ferry.
• The 1,200-passenger, 30-vehicle vessel built at Conrad Shipyard features 122 lithium-ion batteries, Siemens Energy BlueDrive Eco propulsion and reaches speeds of 10–12 knots—up to 66% faster than its diesel predecessor.
• Officials estimate the boat’s battery-assisted hybrid mode cuts about 600 tons of CO₂ annually, with an additional 800-ton reduction expected once shore charging is operational.
• Shore-based rapid-charging facilities are in the design and funding phase, with a transition to full electric operation planned over the next two years and the 1956-launched diesel ferry Lt. Samuel S. Coursen set to retire later this year.
• Supported by $7.5 million in federal infrastructure grants and city backing, the $33 million project complements Governors Island’s wider climate exchange and sustainability initiatives.