So Long, ‘Ferrynoia.’ Green Maritime Technology Is Here

Key points

• The Harbor Charger, New York state's first hybrid-electric public ferry, is gearing up for its first full summer transporting passengers between the city’s South Ferry terminal and Governors Island, the 172-acre oasis across New York Harbor from Lower Manhattan.
• A draw for New Yorkers and tourists alike, Governors Island hosts outdoor concerts and art installations on its sprawling green spaces.
• “A lot of what we do on the island is focused on public recreation, exploring the outdoors and public art,” says Clare Newman, president and CEO of the Trust for Governors Island.
• “The Harbor Charger reflects all three of those pillars, with the idea being that the boat ride itself is part of your Governors Island experience.” The $33 million ferry was designed by Seattle-based Elliott Bay Design Group and built at the Conrad Shipyard in Morgan City, Louisiana.
• It’s 66 percent faster than the outgoing ferry—the nearly 70-year-old Lt....