(MAMARONECK, N.Y.) — Derecktor Shipyards has announced the launch of two hybrid-electric passenger ferries, Juliette Gordon Low II and Susie King Taylor II, for Chatham Area Transit (CAT) in Savannah, Ga. These vessels represent the culmination of advanced engineering, sustainable practices, and a commitment to meeting the future needs of marine transportation.
With six hybrid-electric commercial vessels launched in the past decade, Derecktor has solidified its position as a U.S. leader in innovative and environmentally responsible marine construction. These latest additions to CAT’s fleet are set to revolutionize urban water transit in Savannah and beyond.
Juliette Gordon Low II and Susie King Taylor II were purpose-built to support CAT’s evolving transportation network. Operating on short, continuous routes between three key landings in Savannah – City Hall Landing, Trade Center Landing, and Waving Girl Landing – these ferries are tailored to provide reliable, efficient service in a bustling urban environment.

At 65 feet in length, each ferry has been designed with passenger safety, comfort, and efficiency in mind. With the capacity to transport up to 149 passengers, these vessels ensure smooth, quiet, and environmentally conscious commutes for locals and tourists alike.
These ferries leverage cutting-edge hybrid-electric propulsion systems that set them apart as models of sustainability and innovation. Key features of their design include:
• BAE HybriGen power system: A sophisticated hybrid-electric propulsion system that optimizes fuel consumption while reducing emissions and noise pollution.
• MJP Ultrajet 305 dual waterjets: These waterjets provide precise maneuverability and efficiency, ensuring safe navigation in Savannah’s waterways.
• XALT lithium-ion batteries: High-capacity batteries that enable the hybrid-electric system to operate efficiently, minimizing environmental impact.
• Cummins 6.7L marine diesel generators: These generators charge XALT lithium-ion batteries, guaranteeing system reliability and consistent performance throughout the ferry’s operational schedule.

This combination of technologies allows the ferries to achieve a top speed of 11 knots while maintaining energy efficiency and operational reliability, even on continuous service routes.
The ferries’ names pay tribute to two remarkable women in Savannah’s history: Juliette Gordon Low, the founder of the Girl Scouts of the USA and a visionary leader who championed empowerment and education for young women; and Susie King Taylor, a trailblazing educator and nurse who became the first African American woman to teach openly in a school for formerly enslaved individuals in Georgia.
By naming these vessels after such influential figures, CAT honors the rich cultural and historical heritage of Savannah while looking toward a sustainable future.
The introduction of Juliette Gordon Low II and Susie King Taylor II marks an important milestone in the evolution of urban marine transportation. These ferries demonstrate the tangible benefits of hybrid-electric technology in real-world applications, including:
• Lower emissions: Reduced carbon footprint compared to traditional diesel-powered vessels.
• Enhanced energy efficiency: Optimized fuel usage through advanced hybrid systems.
• Improved passenger comfort: Reliable, smooth operations that elevate the commuting experience.
• Cost-effective operation: Long-term savings for transit authorities through fuel efficiency and lower maintenance costs.
– Derecktor Shipyards