Zero Emissions Maritime: Whatcom, Washington and Beyond

On Wednesday, July 13th, guests joined Governor Inslee and others at All American Marine to celebrate the Zero Emissions Maritime: Whatcom, Washington, and Beyond initiatives happening in Washington state.

Washington Maritime Blue, the Port of Bellingham, All American Marine, and the Working Waterfront Coalition of Whatcom County partnered to host a small gathering to celebrate the production of the world’s first hydrogen fuel-cell-powered ferry. With delicious seafood from Lummi Island Wild, Bornstein Seafoods, and Barlean’s Fisheries prepared by Crave Catering, and drinks from Kulshan Brewery, guests were treated to a wonderful evening on the shop floor of All American Marine.

Tours of the M/V Sea Change provided guests a first-hand up-close view of this significant vessel. Byron Bolton of the Bolton Group and owner of All American Marine said, “it’s amazing to take this vessel out, move the throttle forward, and realize that you’re not using any fossil fuels., no emissions!” The group had done research trips to Norway to look at ferry systems operating without fossil fuels. While Norway operates 30% of their ferries with electric power only, this vessel is the first in the world to utilize hydrogen fuel to propel the vessel, and marks a leap forward for Washington’s industry in the world of next-generation propulsion on the water, placing Washington, and Bellingham in particular, as a world-wide leader in alternative fuel technology.

Governor Inslee spoke to the crowd about this true “Sea Change” for the maritime sector and expressed sincere gratitude to all who worked so hard to engineer and build this game-changing vessel. Ron Wille, President and CEO of All American Marine, also emphasized the importance of this innovative vessel and credited the hard work of so many dedicated tradesmen, businesses and individuals. We, too, are grateful for the ingenuity, tenacity, and professionalism of all who worked collaboratively on this vessel. Whatcom Waterfronts indeed are at the forefront of significant innovations.