FERRIES 2025: 16 years with America\u2019s first hybrid-electric ferry
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Marine Log<\/em>\u2019s 38th annual FERRIES Conference<\/a><\/strong>, taking place November 4\u20135, 2025 in Jersey City, N.J., will feature a standout session highlighting nearly two decades of hybrid-electric ferry operations and their influence on today\u2019s maritime sustainability movement.<\/p>\n Capt. Ryan O\u2019Rourke of Rivers of Steel and Ryan Bishop, director of ferry marine solutions, U.S. & Canada, Siemens Energy, will co-present \u201cPioneering Sustainability: 16 Years at the Helm of America\u2019s First Hybrid-Electric Passenger Vessel.\u201d<\/em><\/p>\n Built in 2006 and delivered in 2009, the M\/V Explorer<\/em> was the United States\u2019 first hybrid-electric passenger vessel. For 16 years, O\u2019Rourke has commanded the Explorer<\/em>, overseeing its operational performance, maintenance evolution, and public engagement. His presentation will reflect on the vessel\u2019s historical significance, the challenges of operating pioneering technology, and the lessons learned that continue to shape today\u2019s green maritime practices.<\/p>\n Owned and operated by Rivers of Steel<\/a>, the Explorer<\/em> is more than a vessel\u2014it is a platform for community connection. Docked along Pittsburgh\u2019s North Shore at the headwaters of the Ohio River, it serves as the world\u2019s first \u201cgreen riverboat\u201d designed to LEED standards, offering sightseeing cruises, student STEM workshops, educational tours, and private events. Its mission extends beyond transportation, promoting regional tourism, industrial heritage, and environmental education.<\/p>\n Building on O\u2019Rourke\u2019s operational insights, Bishop will connect the Explorer<\/em>\u2019s legacy to the evolution of modern hybrid ferry solutions. His presentation will showcase how early breakthroughs in propulsion and vessel design are driving today\u2019s advancements in sustainable ferry technology, offering valuable context for operators and policymakers looking to invest in hybrid systems.<\/p>\n This joint session will give attendees a rare peer-to-peer view of what hybrid technology has delivered in real-world passenger operations over nearly two decades. Beyond performance data, the Explorer<\/em>\u2019s story underscores how maritime assets can engage communities, advance environmental stewardship, and inspire innovation.<\/p>\n Whether you\u2019re an operator, policymaker, technologist, or shipyard leader, this presentation promises actionable insights into the long-term impacts of hybrid propulsion and its role in shaping the ferry industry\u2019s future.<\/p>\n Marine Log<\/em>\u2018s FERRIES 2025 will bring together ferry operators, shipbuilders, regulators, and technology leaders from across North America and beyond. Returning this year as the event\u2019s official association sponsor is SNAME<\/a>.<\/p>\n Register now<\/a><\/strong> to connect with industry experts and explore the innovations shaping the future of ferry operations.<\/p>\n Marine Log<\/em> FERRIES 2025 sponsorship packages offer branded sessions, lead generation, custom email deployments, tabletop exhibits and more.<\/p>\n For more information, contact David Harkey at 212.620.7223 (office) or 973.563.0109 (cell) or dharkey@sbpub.com.<\/p>\n The post FERRIES 2025: 16 years with America\u2019s first hybrid-electric ferry<\/a> appeared first on Marine Log<\/a>.<\/p>\n<\/div>\nA Vessel Ahead of Its Time<\/h3>\n
From Past to Future: Hybrid Evolution<\/h3>\n
Why It Matters<\/h3>\n
Top Reasons to Attend FERRIES 2025<\/strong><\/h3>\n
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