Ferry Return Adds to SF Bay Passenger Capacity

By George Backwell July 15, 2014

SF Bay Ferry says that its passenger loads increased significantly in 2013 and continue to increase in 2014. The refurbished 250 passenger Bay Breeze will bring needed additional carrying capacity to San Francisco Bay Ferry’s Harbor Bay/San Francisco service thereby relieving occasional overcrowding.

General benefits
New control and navigation systems will reduce maintenance costs and increase vessel’s service life.
Improved passenger seating, along with restroom, and snack bar renovations will enhance the already enjoyable Bay crossing.

Rider benefits

Onboard bicycle capacity increased to 32 bikes.
ADA accessible restroom and wheelchair tie-downs.
Improved WiFi service.
Flat panel monitors for real-time vessel location display and safety announcements.
Pull down trays on selected seats.
New carpets, seats, snack bar and interior/exterior paint.

Costs & background

Total project cost: $5,015,000.
The project is funded with 80% Federal Transit Administration (FTA) grant funds and 20% Alameda Measure B Sales Tax Revenue.
Vessel refurbishment contract awarded to Marine Group, Chula Vista, CA in March 2013.
Bay Breeze was built in 1992 by Nichols Brothers Boat Builders, Washington.
Operated in Alameda/Oakland/SF route before being assigned to the Harbor Bay/San Francisco route.
Vessel will primarily serve the Harbor Bay/San Francisco route, although it may occasionally operate on other SFBF routes.

Nina Rannells, executive director of the SF Bay Ferry commented: “We are very pleased that the Bay Breeze is back in service and we’ll be able to better accommodate our Harbor Bay passengers. The continuing growth in our passenger service is why this larger capacity vessel is so important.”