The Iconic Coronado, CA Ferry Is Moving Closer to Replacing Its Diesel Boats With All-Electric Vessels

On December 18, 2025, ABC 10 News San Diego reported a major step toward a cleaner commute across San Diego Bay is underway in California, as the iconic Coronado Ferry moves closer to replacing its diesel-powered boats with quieter, more eco-friendly and cost-effective fully electric vessels.

Once completed, the project would introduce the first all-electric ferries operating in California. Despite a total price tag of roughly $21 million, operators say passenger fares will remain unchanged at $9 each way. Flagship Cruises and Events plans to fund the transition primarily through state support, securing just over $15 million in grants, while contributing an additional $5 million of its own capital.

The electric ferries will feature a modern, efficient design and deliver significant benefits for riders and waterfront communities alike. Officials say the new vessels will dramatically reduce noise levels, improve air quality along the bay, and offer increased capacity, with room for up to 275 passengers per trip. These improvements are expected to particularly benefit daily commuters who rely on the service.

The project is now entering a critical phase, with Flagship beginning the process of selecting a shipyard to build the new vessels. If the timeline holds, construction will begin shortly after a builder is chosen, and the first all-electric ferries could be in service as early as fall of 2026.

“They’re going to be submitting their bids, and it’s going to be a really competitive process, and we’re really excited about that. And we’ll be announcing the shipyard winners spring of 2026,” Corchelle Worsham, PR manager for Flagship Cruises, told 10 News.

“The introduction of all-electric ferries on the San Diego-Coronado route will not only reduce emissions and improve air quality but also serve as an inspiring example of innovation in transit,” said John Duncan, Mayor, City of Coronado.

The ferries are being engineered with lightweight, marine-optimized, and modular components that can be upgraded as technology evolves. Construction will take place in phases, with the second vessel built only after the first has been rigorously tested to ensure safety, performance, and reliability. The project also includes installation of fast-charging equipment at each dock, completed by EVITP-certified electricians who will reconfigure the existing shore power systems. Comprehensive dockside and sea trials, along with crew training, will ensure full regulatory compliance and operational readiness.

The project is supported through public-private collaboration, including Flagship Cruises & Events, the California Air Resources Board’s SHIFT Program, Aurora Marine Design, Momentum, the Port of San Diego, and the San Diego County Air Pollution Control District.

Jennifer States, Director of Ports and Maritime at Momentum, highlighted the significance of the initiative, noting that it demonstrates how collaborative efforts can accelerate zero-emission transportation and expand sustainable marine solutions across California.

Funding comes from the California Air Resources Board’s Sustainable Heavy-Duty Initiatives for Future Technologies (SHIFT) Program, part of the California Climate Investments initiative. These funds are reinvested to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, improve public health, strengthen the economy, and support disadvantaged communities. The first electric ferries are scheduled to begin operations in 2026, marking a bold move toward a greener, quieter, and more sustainable future for San Diego Bay.

EVinfo.net’s Take: Another Electric Win for California

EVinfo.net is based in sunny, beautiful San Diego, California. We could not be more proud of our forward-thinking home state, as once again we take the lead in electric transportation.

I’ve ridden the ferry to Coronado in the past, and can’t wait to do it again on the new electric ferries. This is another tremendous sign of real progress, bringing lower costs and cleaner air.