Hydrogen Fuel Cells Power U.S. Ferry Revolution as Maritime Partners Backs Sea Change

Maritime Partners LLC just wrapped up a game-changing sale-leaseback refinancing deal for the Sea Change — the first commercial hydrogen-powered, zero-emission ferry in the U.S. Built and operated by SWITCH Maritime, the ferry is powered by a cutting-edge hydrogen fuel cell system from ZEI and runs on green hydrogen made through solar-powered electrolysis. Yeah, that’s right — sunshine turned into clean fuel.

Pushing Innovation in the San Francisco Bay

Docked and running in the buzz of the San Francisco Bay Area, the Sea Change is more than just a splashy new boat — it’s a sign of what’s to come. With most U.S. ferries still running on diesel, this vessel is proof that clean, sustainable transport on the water isn’t just a dream — it’s alive and kicking.

Fueling the Future of U.S. Marine Transport

This deal isn’t just about financing — it gives SWITCH Maritime the boost they need to scale up and bring this zero-emission technology to other major cities like New York and Seattle. At the same time, it marks Maritime Partners’ first dive into clean technology in the maritime leasing world. A smart move, considering where the industry’s headed.

More Than a Ferry — A Blueprint for What’s Next

Sea Change isn’t just about a smoother ride across the Bay. It’s about setting the stage for how fuel cell technology can be scaled across the country. With the use of green hydrogen and a strong push toward cleaner energy, this project could ripple out far beyond just lower emissions — think new jobs, new infrastructure, and a whole new way of thinking about ferries and beyond.