What's Happening?
The Cathleen Stone Island Ferry, a 64-foot, 140-passenger steel vessel operating in Boston Harbor, is undergoing a significant mid-life refit at Gladding-Hearn Shipbuilding, Duclos Corporation. Originally built in 1995 by the Somerset, Mass., shipyard,
the ferry is being upgraded to improve its performance and environmental compliance. Key upgrades include replacing the original 315hp Detroit Diesel engine with a new 429hp, EPA Tier 3, Mitsubishi diesel engine, which will increase the ferry's top speed to 11 knots. The refit also involves installing a new shaft, propeller, and a Twin Disc MG-5114 gearbox. Additional improvements include a new Dometic Seastar Optimus steering system, six electric heaters replacing the diesel-fired boiler, and updates to the electrical and piping systems. The vessel's hull will be sandblasted, surveyed, and replated as needed, with a new coating system applied to both the exterior and interior.
Why It's Important?
This refit is crucial for maintaining the operational efficiency and environmental compliance of the Cathleen Stone Island Ferry, which plays a vital role in transporting visitors and supplies to Cathleen Stone Island Outward Bound. The upgrades will not only enhance the ferry's performance but also reduce its environmental impact by meeting EPA Tier 3 standards. This aligns with broader efforts to modernize maritime transport and reduce emissions in the U.S. The refit ensures the ferry remains a reliable and sustainable mode of transportation for the Boston Harbor community, supporting local tourism and educational programs.
What's Next?
The refit is scheduled for completion by spring 2026, after which the ferry will resume its seasonal operations. The successful completion of this project could set a precedent for similar upgrades to other aging vessels in the region, promoting a shift towards more environmentally friendly maritime operations. Stakeholders, including local government and environmental groups, may monitor the ferry's performance post-refit to assess the impact of these upgrades on operational efficiency and environmental compliance.
