Solar And Wind-Powered Ferries To Run On San Francisco Bay

"Two hybrid ferries powered by the wind and sun will carry visitors to Alcatraz under a new 10-year contract between the National Park Service and Hornblower Cruises and Events."

"The new hybrid ferries will hold 600 passengers and operate at 12 to 15 knots. The vessels will be fitted with a large, rigid wing covered in solar panels that will capture sun and wind power. When conditions are right, the vessel will be able to sail back and forth. In extreme weather, the sail will automatically fold down flat above the deck like a roof."

"As needed, the vessel will operate with diesel generators burning low-sulfur diesel fuel and equipped with air pollution controls that cut emissions by 70 to 90 percent (compared to conventional marine diesels)."

"In the event of an earthquake or other disaster, the boats can operate at low speeds for emergency purposes on wind and electricity without any fuel, and could potentially help to shuttle commuters across the Bay if necessary."

[Note: This press release is in PDF format.]