64
FOGHORN
M
arine Group Boat Works 
(MGBW), based in Chu-
la Vista, Calif., has been 
selected to begin construction of a 
new low-emissions passenger ferry for 
fellow PVA member Catalina Express. 
This cutting-edge vessel will meet the 
requirements of the California Air 
Resources Board (CARB) Commer-
cial Harbor Craft Regulation, advanc-
ing the state’s commitment to cleaner 
maritime transportation, while add-
ing significant economic impact to 
the community. The vessel is expected 
to be launched and begin sea trials in 
the third quarter of 2027.
Catalina Express is part of the LA 
MER (Los Angeles Marine Emission 
Reduction) project, a collaborative 
initiative between CARB and the 
Port of Los Angeles. Backed by a $31 
million CARB grant, the project aims 
to accelerate the adoption of lower 
emission harbor craft across Califor-
nia. As part of this effort, Catalina 
Express received a $15 million grant to 
match its own $15 million contribu-
tion to the project. This emission-re-
ducing technology demonstration 
project aligns with Catalina Express’ 
and MGBW’s dedication to environ-
mental consciousness and revitalizing 
the California boatbuilding industry.
The new 46-meter Catalina ferry, 
designed by Incat Crowther, will be 
equipped with four Tier 4 MTU 12V 
4000M65L engines and a proposed 
CARB-verified diesel particulate 
filter once certified by the EPA, the 
U.S. Coast Guard, and CARB to 
MEMBER NEWS
Marine Group 
Boat Works  
to Build  
Low-Emissions 
Ferry  
for Catalina 
Express 
PHOTO: INCAT CROWTHER 
MEMBER NEWS
Catalina Express has awarded a contract to Marine Group Boat Works to build a new low-emis

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