Author: Christian Yuhas

Publisher:

Published: 2017

Total Pages: 54

ISBN-13:

The Hawaii Department of Transportation (HDOT) and the U.S. Maritime Administration (MARAD) have authorized and funded a study to review the feasibility of bringing a new interisland ferry system to Hawaii. This study will make recommendations on whether the new vessels should use a mono hull or multi hull configuration. Propulsion fuel choices for these new vessels is a critical component of the study, as the effects of burning liquid natural gas (LNG) or marine diesel oil will affect the amount of greenhouse gases produced, the life span of the engines, the maintenance cost for the vessels and the cost of fuel. My conclusion based on the results of this study is to recommend that a mono hull vessel utilizing LNG as fuel should be used for the new Hawaii interisland ferry system. This study will draw upon lessons learned from existing U.S. ferry systems such as the Alaska Marine Highway and the Washington State Ferry, with consideration being given to the requirements dictated by the Jones Act, as well as conditions and requirements specific to the Hawaiian Islands and the lessons learned from the original Hawaiian SuperFerry and SeaFlite interisland ferry systems. As author of this study, I have firsthand knowledge of the ocean conditions, environmental concerns, and the operation and maintenance of large high-speed multi hull vessels from my experience serving as Chief Engineer of the Hawaii SuperFerry until its shutdown by the Hawaii Supreme Court. I have also been employed as a licensed marine engineer working aboard the Alaska Marine Highway System's high-speed multi hull vessel M/V Fairweather.