San Francisco Bay Ferry
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The San Francisco Bay Ferry (SFBF) provides transbay ferry service between San Francisco and Alameda, Oakland, Vallejo/Mare Island, Richmond, and South San Francisco. It is operated by the Blue and Gold Fleet, and administered by Water Emergency Transportation Authority (WETA).
The fleet currently stands at 15 vessels, all of which are catamarans. Some were built for WETA's predecessor agencies, while others are new builds for WETA. The variety of vessels and destinations makes the San Francisco Bay Ferry the largest agency of catamaran ferries in the Western United States. Overall, WETA/SFBF has pursued a notable expansion of routes and services during the past couple years. The near future seems bright for the resurrected East Bay ferry service. |
The M.V. Bay Breeze
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Routes
Oakland & Alameda
Oakland, Main Street Alameda, and San Francisco Ferry Building. No Alameda service before 9 AM (use Harbor Bay).
Temporary post Loma Prieta earthquake service from 1989-c.1990. Service later continued under Alameda-Oakland Ferry. Absorbed into SF Bay Ferry in 2011.
Vessels often on route: Hydrus Class, Peralta, Bay Breeze
Vallejo
Vallejo to San Francisco Ferry Building, select trips from Vallejo to Mare Island
Service began in 1986 under the Red & White Fleet, subsidized during Loma Prieta aftermath. Operations taken over by Vallejo Transit, later BayLink. Absorbed into SF Bay Ferry in 2012.
Vessels often on route: Intintoli, Mare Island, Pyxis Class. The length of the route necessitates a faster boat, compared to the rest of the system.
Richmond
Richmond to San Francisco Ferry Building
Temporary post-Loma Prieta earthquake service from 1989-c.1990. Red & White Fleet commute service attempeted from 1999 - c. September 2000. Service restarted under WETA on January 10, 2019.
Vessels often on route: Hydrus Class, Gemini Class, Peralta
Alameda Seaplane (Lagoon)
Seaplane Lagoon Alameda to San Francisco Ferry Building. Limited midday service.
Service began on July 1, 2021.
Vessels often on route: Hydrus Class, Peralta, Gemini Class,
Harbor Bay
Harbor Bay (Bay Farm Island) to San Francisco Ferry Building. Limited midday service.
Service started in the 1990s, under the Alameda Harbor Bay Ferry brand, managed by the City of Alameda. Service was transferred to WETA in 2011.
Vessels often on route: Gemini Class, Bay Breeze, Peralta, Vallejo
South San Francisco - Oakland/Alameda
Oakland, Alameda, to South San Francisco (Oyster Point) during commute times.
Service started in 2012.
Vessels often on route: Gemini Class, Bay Breeze
Pier 41 Short Hop
Pier 41 Marine Terminal to San Francisco Ferry Building, weekends only.
Vessels often on route: Gemini Class
Seasonal Sports Routes
Ballpark Short Hop - SF - Oracle Park short hop, during daytime, before games.
Oakland - Ballpark - Direct evening game day service from Oakland Jack London Square to Oracle Park
Main Street Alameda - Ballpark - Direct evening game day service from Alameda (Main Street) to Oracle Park
Alameda/Oakland - Chase Center - Suspended. Alameda (Main Street) and Oakland (Jack London Sq) to Pier 48/Chase Center (SF) for Warriors home games and select special events.
Former Routes
South SF to Harbor Bay - trial route in 2019.
Note: Vessels are very often interlined between multiple routes.
Oakland, Main Street Alameda, and San Francisco Ferry Building. No Alameda service before 9 AM (use Harbor Bay).
Temporary post Loma Prieta earthquake service from 1989-c.1990. Service later continued under Alameda-Oakland Ferry. Absorbed into SF Bay Ferry in 2011.
Vessels often on route: Hydrus Class, Peralta, Bay Breeze
Vallejo
Vallejo to San Francisco Ferry Building, select trips from Vallejo to Mare Island
Service began in 1986 under the Red & White Fleet, subsidized during Loma Prieta aftermath. Operations taken over by Vallejo Transit, later BayLink. Absorbed into SF Bay Ferry in 2012.
Vessels often on route: Intintoli, Mare Island, Pyxis Class. The length of the route necessitates a faster boat, compared to the rest of the system.
Richmond
Richmond to San Francisco Ferry Building
Temporary post-Loma Prieta earthquake service from 1989-c.1990. Red & White Fleet commute service attempeted from 1999 - c. September 2000. Service restarted under WETA on January 10, 2019.
Vessels often on route: Hydrus Class, Gemini Class, Peralta
Alameda Seaplane (Lagoon)
Seaplane Lagoon Alameda to San Francisco Ferry Building. Limited midday service.
Service began on July 1, 2021.
Vessels often on route: Hydrus Class, Peralta, Gemini Class,
Harbor Bay
Harbor Bay (Bay Farm Island) to San Francisco Ferry Building. Limited midday service.
Service started in the 1990s, under the Alameda Harbor Bay Ferry brand, managed by the City of Alameda. Service was transferred to WETA in 2011.
Vessels often on route: Gemini Class, Bay Breeze, Peralta, Vallejo
South San Francisco - Oakland/Alameda
Oakland, Alameda, to South San Francisco (Oyster Point) during commute times.
Service started in 2012.
Vessels often on route: Gemini Class, Bay Breeze
Pier 41 Short Hop
Pier 41 Marine Terminal to San Francisco Ferry Building, weekends only.
Vessels often on route: Gemini Class
Seasonal Sports Routes
Ballpark Short Hop - SF - Oracle Park short hop, during daytime, before games.
Oakland - Ballpark - Direct evening game day service from Oakland Jack London Square to Oracle Park
Main Street Alameda - Ballpark - Direct evening game day service from Alameda (Main Street) to Oracle Park
Alameda/Oakland - Chase Center - Suspended. Alameda (Main Street) and Oakland (Jack London Sq) to Pier 48/Chase Center (SF) for Warriors home games and select special events.
Former Routes
South SF to Harbor Bay - trial route in 2019.
Note: Vessels are very often interlined between multiple routes.
Fleet
Click on the above image to download the official PDF file of the San Francisco Bay Ferry Fleet, made by WETA (reuploaded here). This page will generally focus on qualitative information on the boats.
Active Fleet
Section Contents:
Inherited Vessels
Hydrus Class: Hydrus, Carina, Cetus, Argo
Pyxis Class: Pyxis, Vela, Lyra
Dorado Class: Dorado, Delphinus
Retired Vessels
Inherited Vessels
- Bay Breeze
- Peralta
- Intintoli
- Mare Island
Hydrus Class: Hydrus, Carina, Cetus, Argo
Pyxis Class: Pyxis, Vela, Lyra
Dorado Class: Dorado, Delphinus
Retired Vessels
- Harbor Bay Express II Alameda
- Vallejo
- Encincal
- Solano
Inherited Vessels
WETA inherited a small fleet of vessels from the previous city-ran ferry operations. These routes became the basis of the San Francisco Bay Ferry system. These remaining vessels still provide a sizable portion of the WETA/SFBF fleet today.
Service Name: Vessels in fleet.
Alameda Harbor Bay Ferry: Harbor Bay Express II Alameda, Bay Breeze
Alameda/Oakland Ferry: Encinal, Peralta, Bay Breeze
BayLink (Vallejo): Vallejo, Solano, Intintoli, Mare Island
(Vessel names in Bold are still in service.) See the bottom of the page for retired vessels.
Service Name: Vessels in fleet.
Alameda Harbor Bay Ferry: Harbor Bay Express II Alameda, Bay Breeze
Alameda/Oakland Ferry: Encinal, Peralta, Bay Breeze
BayLink (Vallejo): Vallejo, Solano, Intintoli, Mare Island
(Vessel names in Bold are still in service.) See the bottom of the page for retired vessels.
M/V Bay Breeze
Departing San Francisco, February 2022
Details:
Passenger Capacity: 250 Bike Capacity: 20 Service Speed: 26 knots / 30 mph Began Service: 1994 Construction Cost: $2.1 million Builders: Nichols Brother Boat Builders Engines: 2 x MTU 16V2000 Propulsion Type: 1994 - 2014: Water Jet / 2014 - Present: Propeller Horn: Air Horn |
Bay Breeze is the oldest ferryboat in the San Francisco Bay Ferry fleet, and despite a planned retirement for 2020, she's still a common sight on the Bay.
The 'Breeze was built for the City of Alameda/Port of Oakland in 1994 by Nichols Brothers Boat Builders. Her name initially brought forth controversy (some saying her name sounded "like an astringent"), and the following ferries built after her, for Alameda-Oakland, were named after the Key and SP ferryboats of yesteryear. She was used initially on the Alameda-Oakland route. By the 2000s, she was assigned to the Alameda-Harbor Bay route. Now, she's seen on a variety of central Bay routes, but often times holds down the South San Francisco route during the commute periods. Oddly enough, the 'Breeze was in the background during a scene of Ant Man. Unique among the entire SFBF Fleet, Bay Breeze features angled flip down seats, giving an even more ergonomic viewpoint to the sights of the Bay. To note, some of the flip down seat springs are...out of action, presumably due to age. With current ridership, it's no problem to switch out one's seat. Bay Breeze is a bit worn out and showing her age (no doubt living on borrowed time), but I would not hesitate in calling the old Bay Breeze among my favorite ferryboats in the Bay. |
Photo gallery: Click the thumbnails below to view the full size image.
M/V Peralta
Arriving at San Francisco, February 2022
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The name Peralta graces the sides of the unique vessel in service on the Bay. The third Peralta on the Bay was built in 2002 by Nichols Brothers Boat Builders for the Alameda/Oakland Ferry, a predecessor to SFBF, and operated along said route the brand was named after. Shortly after entering service, her hull was replaced due to defective aluminum.
On September 13, 2003, Peralta ran over a sailboat. On October 12, 2014, she collided with a piling at Pier 41, injuring 10 persons. Although this certainly isn't the best reputation, it's far cry from the infamous Peralta of the Key System. She recieved her mid-life overhaul, by Marine Group Boat Works, in 2018. She is the only Cummins-powered vessel in service. Regardless, Peralta is a nice boat to ride, and she can be found plying the waters serving a variety of routes in the Bay (Oakland/Alameda, Harbor Bay, Seaplane). In some ways, she feels like a smaller version of the Golden Gate Ferry Mendocino, without the third deck. This year, in 2022, she reaches her 20th year in service. Details: Passenger Capacity: 331 Bike Capacity: 20 Service Speed: 25 knots/ 28 mph Began Service: 2002 Construction Cost: $5.2 million Builders: Nichols Brother Boat Builders Engines: 2 x Cummins QSK50 Propulsion Type: Propeller |
Photo gallery: Click the thumbnails below to view the full size image.
BayLink Boats - AMD360A Class: Intintoli, Mare Island
BayLink was the former brand behind the Vallejo ferry. Two sister ships, the Intintoli and Mare Island, were designed as the AMD360A class. One design objective with the AMD360A was low wash characteristics. They feature aft raked windows, forming a sleek, streamlined pilothouse. They are the oldest (1997) AMD-designed / Dakota Creek-built catamaran ferries in service on the Bay (the Bay Area historically had every AMD-designed / Dakota Creek-built catamaran ferry built - the Solano is now in Washington State).
Both of them retain hints of their BayLink days, with mustard and green interiors, and some BayLink blue on the uppper deck aft windows. Other visual changes throughout their lives include a new bow door, new liveries (three to four different liveries total), revised outside seating area, and lifesaving equipment replacement. Personally, a big gripe with this pair is the tiny outside seating area. Thankfully, this problem has been rectified on the Pyxis class, which are also used on the Vallejo route.
Both vessels are assigned on the Vallejo route, but are often interlined/borrowed for service on other routes in the central bay. This is particularly true with Vallejo AM run 2 doing a trip to Seaplane in the late morning.
From the BayLink website:
"These sister ships are identical vessels completed in 1997 expressly for the Vallejo ferry service to be known as Baylink. As with the VALLEJO before them, funding for these vessels also came from the North Bay Ferry Demonstration Project in the wake of the 1989 earthquake. The vessels were designed by Advanced Multihull Designs of Australia, and were built at Dakota Creek Shipyard in Anacortes, Washington. These 34 knot, 300 passenger catamarans were the first true high speed ferries to operate on San Francisco Bay. The INTINTOLI is named in honor of Mayor Anthony Intintoli, Jr. who, in his first term as mayor, was instrumental in obtaining the required funding for vessel construction. The MARE ISLAND is named in honor of the Mare Island Ferry Company and its owners the Raahauge Family. The Mare Island Ferry Company operated for many years carrying well over a million shipyard workers from Vallejo across the strait to the historic U.S. Navy shipyard located on Mare Island. "
Both of them retain hints of their BayLink days, with mustard and green interiors, and some BayLink blue on the uppper deck aft windows. Other visual changes throughout their lives include a new bow door, new liveries (three to four different liveries total), revised outside seating area, and lifesaving equipment replacement. Personally, a big gripe with this pair is the tiny outside seating area. Thankfully, this problem has been rectified on the Pyxis class, which are also used on the Vallejo route.
Both vessels are assigned on the Vallejo route, but are often interlined/borrowed for service on other routes in the central bay. This is particularly true with Vallejo AM run 2 doing a trip to Seaplane in the late morning.
From the BayLink website:
"These sister ships are identical vessels completed in 1997 expressly for the Vallejo ferry service to be known as Baylink. As with the VALLEJO before them, funding for these vessels also came from the North Bay Ferry Demonstration Project in the wake of the 1989 earthquake. The vessels were designed by Advanced Multihull Designs of Australia, and were built at Dakota Creek Shipyard in Anacortes, Washington. These 34 knot, 300 passenger catamarans were the first true high speed ferries to operate on San Francisco Bay. The INTINTOLI is named in honor of Mayor Anthony Intintoli, Jr. who, in his first term as mayor, was instrumental in obtaining the required funding for vessel construction. The MARE ISLAND is named in honor of the Mare Island Ferry Company and its owners the Raahauge Family. The Mare Island Ferry Company operated for many years carrying well over a million shipyard workers from Vallejo across the strait to the historic U.S. Navy shipyard located on Mare Island. "
M/V Intintoli
Departing Vallejo, February 2022
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The Intintoli (sometimes known as the "Inti'" is named after Anthony J. Intintoli, Jr., former Major of Vallejo, and current WETA Director.
Intintoli received a repowering and refurbishment in 2011. Details: Passenger Capacity: (1997 - 2011) 325 (2011 - Present) 349 Bike Capacity: 10 - stern raised bike racks Service Speed: (1997 - 2011) 32 knots / 37 mph (2011 - Present) 34 knots / 39 mph Began Service: 1997 Construction Cost: $6 million Builders: Dakota Creek Industries Engines: (1997 - 2011) 2 x MTU V16 396 TE74L (2011 - Present) 2 x MTU 16V4000 M73 Propulsion Type: (1997 - 2011) 2 x Bird Johnson MJP750 Waterjets (2011 - Present) 2 x MJP 750 Mk 2 Water Jet |
Photo gallery: Click the thumbnails below to view the full size image.
M/V Mare Island
Mare Island at Vallejo, February 2022
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Sister ship to the Inti, the Mare Island is named after the former Mare Island Ferry Company, located on the opposite side of the Napa River in Vallejo.
Details: Passenger Capacity: (1997 - 2011) 325 (2011 - Present) 330 Bike Capacity: 10 - stern raised bike racks Service Speed: (1997 - 2011) 32 knots / 37 mph (2011 - Present) 34 knots / 39 mph Began Service: 1997 Construction Cost: $6 million Builders: Dakota Creek Industries Engines: (1997 - 2011) 2 x MTU V16 396 TE74L (2011 - Present) 2 x MTU 16V4000 M73 Propulsion Type: (1997 - 2011) 2 x Bird Johnson MJP750 Waterjets (2011 - Present) 2 x MJP 750 Mk 2 Water Jet |
Photo gallery: Click the thumbnails below to view the full size image.
Gemini Class: Gemini, Pisces, Scorpio, Taurus
The first newly built WETA vessels were the Gemini Class. The Gemini Class are a collection of four similar 225-passenger vessels (originally 199 passenger capacity), all of which entered service in 2008 and 2009. The hulls of these boats were built by Nichols Brothers Boat Builders and the superstructures were built by Kvichak Marine Industries.
At the time, they were the most environmentally friendly ferries built. They featured Tier 2 - exceeding engines, low wash and wake, solar panels, whale watching sonar, and used a blend of Biodiesel-ULS Diesel fuel. Future plans call for their upgrading to Tier 4 engines in the coming years.
All boats were initially delivered in a white/red themed WETA livery, but received the current livery a few years later. Also, all vessels were named after constellations, starting the trend for every new vessel in the fleet.
Usually, one Gemini class takes the first run of the South San Francisco route. They are also seen in service on the Richmond and Harbor Bay routes, and occasionally Oakland/Alameda - SF and Alameda Seaplane.
Common Specifications:
Passenger Capacity:
(Gemini, Pisces): 149 (As Built), 225(Present)
(Scorpio, Taurus): 199 (As Built)
Bike Capacity: 34
Service Speed: 26 knots / 30 mph
Began Service: 2008/2009
Construction Cost: $8.6 million
Builders: Kvichak Marine Industries/Nicholas Bros. Boat Builders
Engines: 2 x MTU 16V2000
Propulsion Type: Propeller
Horn: Electronic Horn (like BART!)
At the time, they were the most environmentally friendly ferries built. They featured Tier 2 - exceeding engines, low wash and wake, solar panels, whale watching sonar, and used a blend of Biodiesel-ULS Diesel fuel. Future plans call for their upgrading to Tier 4 engines in the coming years.
All boats were initially delivered in a white/red themed WETA livery, but received the current livery a few years later. Also, all vessels were named after constellations, starting the trend for every new vessel in the fleet.
Usually, one Gemini class takes the first run of the South San Francisco route. They are also seen in service on the Richmond and Harbor Bay routes, and occasionally Oakland/Alameda - SF and Alameda Seaplane.
Common Specifications:
Passenger Capacity:
(Gemini, Pisces): 149 (As Built), 225(Present)
(Scorpio, Taurus): 199 (As Built)
Bike Capacity: 34
Service Speed: 26 knots / 30 mph
Began Service: 2008/2009
Construction Cost: $8.6 million
Builders: Kvichak Marine Industries/Nicholas Bros. Boat Builders
Engines: 2 x MTU 16V2000
Propulsion Type: Propeller
Horn: Electronic Horn (like BART!)
M/V Gemini
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Gemini is named after the constellation Gemini (Latin for "twins"). She departed Whidbey Island, WA on November 24, 2008, and arrived in the Bay on November 25, 2008.
Gemini entered service in December 2008. |
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Photo gallery: Click the thumbnails below to view the full size image.
M/V Pisces
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Pisces is named after the constellation Pisces (Latin for [pair of] fish).
Pisces arrived from Washington in April 2009, and entered service in 2009. Her engines were replaced in the first quarter of 2022. |
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Photo gallery: Click the thumbnails below to view the full size image.
M/V Scorpio
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Scorpio is named after the constellation Scorpius, which is shaped as a scorpion.
Scorpio entered service in 2009. She was refurbished by Bay Ship & Yacht Co in October 2019, which included new engines and renovated interior. |
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M/V Taurus
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Taurus is named after the constellation Taurus, shaped as a bull's head.
Taurus entered service in 2009. |
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Hydrus Class: Hydrus, Carina, Cetus, Argo
The Hydrus Class, sometimes called the Central Bay Class, are a class of four vessels used heavily in the Central Bay. They were built by Kvichak Marine/Vigor in Washington state, at a cost of $15.1 million a piece. From Richmond to Alameda Seaplane, they are a common sight on the Bay.
Common Specifications:
Passenger Capacity: 400
Bike Capacity: 50
Service Speed: 27 knots / 31 mph
Began Service: 2017-2018
Construction Cost: $15.1 million
Designer: Incat Crowther
Builders: Vigor (formerly Kvichak Marine)
Engines: 2 x MTU 12V4000 M64 EPA Tier 3
Propulsion Type: 2 x 5-bladed Propellers
Horn: Air Horn
Common Specifications:
Passenger Capacity: 400
Bike Capacity: 50
Service Speed: 27 knots / 31 mph
Began Service: 2017-2018
Construction Cost: $15.1 million
Designer: Incat Crowther
Builders: Vigor (formerly Kvichak Marine)
Engines: 2 x MTU 12V4000 M64 EPA Tier 3
Propulsion Type: 2 x 5-bladed Propellers
Horn: Air Horn
M/V Hydrus
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Hydrus is named after the constellation Hydrus, meaning "male water snake." Hydrus features a little bit of information on WETA's expansion of the SF Bay Ferry brand and the meaning behind the vessel's name.
Hydrus entered service on April 17, 2017. She appears to have some heavy wear and tear on the hull, compared to other ships of her class, as of 2022. |
Photo gallery: Click the thumbnails below to view the full size image.
M/V Cetus
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Cetus is named after the constellation Cetus, named after the sea monster in Greek mythology.
Cetus entered service on August 25, 2017. |
Photo gallery: Click the thumbnails below to view the full size image.
M/V Argo
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Argo is named after Argo Navis (translated as the "Ship Argo", a large constellation.
Argo entered service on April 17, 2017. |
Photo gallery: Click the thumbnails below to view the full size image.
M/V Carina
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Carina is named after the constellation Carina (from Latin for keel), which is part of the ship-shaped constellation Argo Navis.
Carina was launched on December 5, 2018. She arrived in the Bay on January 27, 2019, and entered service on February 20, 2019. Carina was present for the groundbreaking of the Alameda Seaplane Lagoon Ferry Terminal groundbreaking in September 2019. |
Photo gallery: Click the thumbnails below to view the full size image.
Pyxis Class: Pyxis, Vela, Lyra
The Pyxis Class (AMD 386 Class) is a natural advancement of the old AMD 360 series (such as the AMD360A - Intintoli and Mare Island). The new Pyxis class feature many visual differences from the AMD 360 series, such as frameless windows, enclosed aft main deck exterior bike racks, and forward raked pilothouse windows. In addition, they were the first high speed passenger ferries in the United States equipped with Tier 4 engines. One was ordered to replace the old Vallejo, while an additional two were ordered to expand Vallejo service, and introduce Richmond service (which, as of 2022, uses smaller boats).
Like the two BayLink boats (Intintoli and Mare Island), the Pyxis class are also assigned the Vallejo route, but can be seen on other routes as needed. Their high speed and capacity suit the Vallejo route well.
Common Specifications:
Passenger Capacity: 445
Bike Capacity: 24
Service Speed: 34 knots/ 39 mph
Began Service: 2018-2020
Construction Cost: $19.2 million
Builders: Dakota Creek Industries
Engines: 2 x MTU 16V4000 EPA Tier 4
Propulsion Type: 2 x Hamilton HT810 Water Jet
Horn: Electronic Horn
Like the two BayLink boats (Intintoli and Mare Island), the Pyxis class are also assigned the Vallejo route, but can be seen on other routes as needed. Their high speed and capacity suit the Vallejo route well.
Common Specifications:
Passenger Capacity: 445
Bike Capacity: 24
Service Speed: 34 knots/ 39 mph
Began Service: 2018-2020
Construction Cost: $19.2 million
Builders: Dakota Creek Industries
Engines: 2 x MTU 16V4000 EPA Tier 4
Propulsion Type: 2 x Hamilton HT810 Water Jet
Horn: Electronic Horn
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The Pyxis is named after Pyxis Nautica (Latin for mariner's compass).
Pyxis was launched in October 2018 and entered service on March 1, 2019. She was the first new vessel assigned to the Vallejo route in 15 years, and designed and built at a cost of $23 million. |
Pyxis at speed heading towards the City.
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Photo gallery: Click the thumbnails below to view the full size image.
M/V Vela
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Vela is named after the constellation Vela (meaning "sails"), which is part of the ship-shaped constellation Argo Navis.
Vela was launched in May 2019, and entered service on August 28, 2019. |
Only a few months in service, the new Vela shines in the morning sun at San Francisco.
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Photo gallery: Click the thumbnails below to view the full size image.
M/V Lyra
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Lyra is named after the constellation Lyra (lyre of Orpheus, according to Greek mythology).
She was launched in January 2020. Lyra entered service in 2020. |
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Photo gallery: Click the thumbnails below to view the full size image.
Dorado Class: Dorado, Delphinus
The newest class of the fleet is the Dorado class. Designed as a jack-of-all trades, these vessels can serve any route of the system, while also holding the record for fastest service speed (38 knots). I have been told the Dorado made it to 38 knots during testing.
Fittingly, they also host a new standard for passenger comfort. Seats include a tray table, the floors are light colored and modern, and outside seating follows a wood-theme. Large windows provide a nice view and natural lighting.
These boats will expand existing service capacity and allow the retirement of older vessels (e.g. Bay Breeze, and replacement of the Solano). The contract was awarded to Mavrik Marine in 2018.
Common Specifications:
Passenger Capacity: 320
Bike Capacity: 35+
Service Speed: 36 knotS
Began Service: June 2022
Construction Cost: $15 million
Builder: Mavrik Marine
Engines: 2 x MTU 12V4000M65R
Propulsion Type: 2 x Hamilton Water Jet
Fittingly, they also host a new standard for passenger comfort. Seats include a tray table, the floors are light colored and modern, and outside seating follows a wood-theme. Large windows provide a nice view and natural lighting.
These boats will expand existing service capacity and allow the retirement of older vessels (e.g. Bay Breeze, and replacement of the Solano). The contract was awarded to Mavrik Marine in 2018.
Common Specifications:
Passenger Capacity: 320
Bike Capacity: 35+
Service Speed: 36 knotS
Began Service: June 2022
Construction Cost: $15 million
Builder: Mavrik Marine
Engines: 2 x MTU 12V4000M65R
Propulsion Type: 2 x Hamilton Water Jet
M/V Dorado
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The name Dorado comes from the constellation Dorado (dolphinfish).
Virtually complete, she was barged out of LaConner, WA on February 17, 2022. She started sea trials a few days later, and made the trek to Vallejo in the final days April. She entered service on June 13, 2022 on the Harbor Bay AM and Seaplane PM services. Dorado will cycle through the different routes of the system in the coming months. |
Photo gallery: Click the thumbnails below to view the full size image and photo credits.
M/V Delphinus
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The name Delphinus comes from the constellation Delphinus (dolphin). She was under construction in 2021.
On an unrelated sidenote, the USS Pegasus (PHM-1) was originally planned to be named Delphinus, but was quickly replaced due to unfortunate realization (link) of inappropriate nicknames. |
(Unnamed)
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The third Dorado class vessel is still in the planning phase, and has not been named.
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(Unnamed)
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The fourth Dorado class vessel is still in the planning phase, and has not been named.
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Retired
M/V Harbor Bay Express II Alameda
Photo by Harbor Bay Express Ferry
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Touting probably the longest name of any ferryboat on the San Francisco Bay was the Harbor Bay Express II Alameda. Her name is often shorted to Harbor Bay Express II or simply Express II.
Lead ship of the Andromeda Class catamaran design, and the first vessel built by USA Catamarans, Inc of Fort Lauderdale, Fl, she was ordered by the City of Alameda for the Harbor Bay - SF route. Not too many details (and only a handful of photos) exist on her life on the Bay, and she was sold sometime between 2006 and 2018, to presumably a foreign operator. Details: Passenger Capacity: 149 Service Speed: 28-30 knots Began Service: 1993 Builder: USA Catamarans, Inc. Engines: 2 x MAND282LYE Propulsion Type: France Helices 4-bladed propellers |
Photo gallery: Click the thumbnails below to view the full size image.
M/V Vallejo
Anthony Nachor photo
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Originally built as the Jet Cat Express of Vallejo Transit, she was rebuilt later in life to add capacity and a pilothouse on the third deck. Her tight seating was a frequent cause of complaints, but some commuters were known to like her due to the two decks of forward-facing windows. She was retired in 2018, and sold alongside Encincal to Allen Marine, an Alaskan tour operator.
From the BayLink website: "The VALLEJO was purchased by the City in 1994 when the vessel was known by her original name, JET CAT EXPRESS. Construction of this 28 knot ferry was started in 1990 at Gladding-Hearn shipyard in Massachusetts for an Alaskan tour operator; vessel design was by INCAT of Australia. During construction the Alaskan operator fell on hard times and gave up its interest in the vessel. The Bombard Family from Southern California ended up paying to complete the vessel in 1991 and she entered service on the Catalina Island route. JET CAT EXPRESS was purchased in 1994 and entered service in Vallejo shortly thereafter; all as part of the North Bay Ferry Demonstration Project funded in the aftermath of the 1989 Loma Prieta earthquake. The vessel served Vallejo for three years before being relegated to back-up service in 1997 with the delivery of INTINTOLI and MARE ISLAND. In 2001 the JET CAT EXPRESS was lengthened, re-powered to 34 knots, and re-christened VALLEJO in honor of the City and its citizens. " Details: Passenger Capacity: 267 Bike Capacity: 10 Service Speed: 34 knots/ 39 mph Began Service: 1994 Construction Cost: $3.2 million Builder: Gladding-Hearn Engines: 2 x MTU 12V4000 M70 Propulsion Type: 2 x Hamilton 721 Water Jet |
Photo gallery: Click the thumbnails below to view the full size image.
M/V Encinal
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Sister ship to Blue & Gold Fleet's Oski, Encinal was the second half of the Alameda/Oakland Ferry fleet. She was the third ferryboat named Encinal to cross the Bay.
In the 1990s, she was equipped with waterjets. She was retired in 2018, and sold alongside Vallejo to Allen Marine, an Alaskan operator. From the looks of it, she was rebuilt and renamed Kalitan Express. Details: Passenger Capacity: 395 Bike Capacity: 20 Service Speed: 23 knots/ 26 mph Began Service: 1985 Builders: Nichols Brothers Boat Builders Engines: 2 x DD Series 4000 Propulsion Type: 1990s: Waterjets 2000s - 2010s: Propeller |
Photo gallery: Click the thumbnails below to view the full size image.
M/V Solano
Solano in her last year of SFBF service, 2019
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The last new-build Dakota Creek boat for BayLink was the Solano. Named after Solano County, Solano was designed as the sole AMD360C class vessel. As built, she had a slightly lower passenger capacity (303 vs 325 passengers) and slightly higher service speed (35 vs 32 knots) than Intintoli and Mare Island.
Solano was retired due to CARB emissions regulations, and sold to Kitsap Transit, a suburb of the Seattle area. She will be rebuilt, and provide service there until 2029. From the BayLink website: "Named for Solano County, California and its citizens, this vessel is a derivative of the INTINTOLI and MARE ISLAND design. Naval architecture was provided by Advanced Multihull Designs, with the vessel being built at Dakota Creek and finished in 2004. What distinguishes SOLANO from her cousins is the installation of a catalytic exhaust after treatment system that makes her the cleanest ferry of her type operating anywhere in the world. On a daily basis the SOLANO produces about 60% less NOx (a smog producing compound) than other ferries. The vessel also features state of the art propulsion control systems; and many improvements in the realm of passenger comfort and convenience." Passenger Capacity: 320 Bike Capacity: 10 Service Speed: 34 knots / 39mph Began Service: 2004 Construction Cost: $11.2 million Builders: Dakota Creek Industries Engines: 2 x MTU 16V4000M70 Propulsion Type: 2x Hamilton HM811 w/ MECS controls |
References
'AMD 360A - "Intintoli" & "Mare Island"' www.amd.com.au/vessels/amd360a.php
"AMD360C - 'Solano"' www.amd.com.au/vessels/amd360c.php
"Baylink Announces Return of Refurbished Ferry" www.baycrossings.org/dispnews.php?id=2694
Board Agenda Packet. sanfranciscobayferry.com/sites/default/files/weta/currentmeeting/b030118aFULL.pdf
"Gemini, WETA’s First New Ferry, Reports for Duty" www.baycrossings.com/gemini-wetas-first-new-ferry-reports-for-duty/
"The Great Aluminum Problem" www.baycrossings.org/dispnews.php?id=482
"Ferry News" www.baycrossings.org/dispnews.php?id=3861
"Meet the Fleet" San Francisco Bay Ferry sanfranciscobayferry.com/meet-the-fleet
"New Ferries Closer to Beginning Service" www.baycrossings.org/dispnews.php?id=3886
"San Francisco Bay Ferryboats - Today" www.cable-car-guy.com/ferry/html/today.html
"Scorpio" www.facebook.com/sanfranciscobayferry/photos/2690830634314504
"A Splendid Run of Bad Luck" Bay Crossings www.baycrossings.com/a-splendid-run-of-bad-luck/
"USA Catamarans Debuts Its-Foil Assisted Planing Catamarans" Maritime Reporter and Engineering News, 2/1994
"Vallejo Ferries." Vallejo Bay Ferry https://www.vallejobayferry.com/vallejo-ferry-schedule/vallejo-ferries/
"WETA Awards $30 Million for Two New Ferries" sanfranciscobayferry.com/mavrik-marine-replacement-ferries-2020-press-release
"Weta’s Newest Ferry Pisces Adds Pizzazz To Regional Ferry Service" www.baycrossings.com/wetas-newest-ferry-pisces-adds-pizzazz-to-regional-ferry-service/
"WETA Welcomes New 445-Passenger Ferry Pyxis" www.baycrossings.org/dispnews.php?id=3905
"AMD360C - 'Solano"' www.amd.com.au/vessels/amd360c.php
"Baylink Announces Return of Refurbished Ferry" www.baycrossings.org/dispnews.php?id=2694
Board Agenda Packet. sanfranciscobayferry.com/sites/default/files/weta/currentmeeting/b030118aFULL.pdf
"Gemini, WETA’s First New Ferry, Reports for Duty" www.baycrossings.com/gemini-wetas-first-new-ferry-reports-for-duty/
"The Great Aluminum Problem" www.baycrossings.org/dispnews.php?id=482
"Ferry News" www.baycrossings.org/dispnews.php?id=3861
"Meet the Fleet" San Francisco Bay Ferry sanfranciscobayferry.com/meet-the-fleet
"New Ferries Closer to Beginning Service" www.baycrossings.org/dispnews.php?id=3886
"San Francisco Bay Ferryboats - Today" www.cable-car-guy.com/ferry/html/today.html
"Scorpio" www.facebook.com/sanfranciscobayferry/photos/2690830634314504
"A Splendid Run of Bad Luck" Bay Crossings www.baycrossings.com/a-splendid-run-of-bad-luck/
"USA Catamarans Debuts Its-Foil Assisted Planing Catamarans" Maritime Reporter and Engineering News, 2/1994
"Vallejo Ferries." Vallejo Bay Ferry https://www.vallejobayferry.com/vallejo-ferry-schedule/vallejo-ferries/
"WETA Awards $30 Million for Two New Ferries" sanfranciscobayferry.com/mavrik-marine-replacement-ferries-2020-press-release
"Weta’s Newest Ferry Pisces Adds Pizzazz To Regional Ferry Service" www.baycrossings.com/wetas-newest-ferry-pisces-adds-pizzazz-to-regional-ferry-service/
"WETA Welcomes New 445-Passenger Ferry Pyxis" www.baycrossings.org/dispnews.php?id=3905
Last Updated 6/19/22
By ATP Transit "Ferry Nerd"
By ATP Transit "Ferry Nerd"
