Rolls-Royce has been selected by Catalina Express, a leading California-based ferry operator, to supply the marine propulsion system for a new high-capacity passenger ferry that will serve the route between mainland California and Santa Catalina Island. The 500-passenger vessel, which will be the largest in the Catalina Express fleet upon completion, will be powered by four mtu Series 12V4000 M65L engines, delivering a combined output of over 7463 kW (10,000 bhp).
The new ferry is part of the Port of Los Angeles’ $31 million LA MER project, which is funded by the California Air Resources Board (CARB). Via the project, Catalina Express received a $15 million grant, matching it with $15 million of its own investment. The goal of the LA MER project is to test ways to reduce emissions as the Port works toward becoming a zero-emission port.
The new 42-meter ferry, which will be able to reach speeds up to 37 knots, will replace three older Catalina Express vessels maintaining capacity and increasing environmental performance. The vessel will serve as a next-generation leader of the fleet, showcasing the company’s commitment to sustainable operations.
Rolls-Royce’s mtu Series 4000 M65L engines are known for their exceptional reliability, efficiency, quiet operation and environmental compliance, utilizing advanced emissions control technologies to reduce nitrogen oxides and particulate matter.
The mtu Series 4000 Engines, which are EPA Tier 4-certified, offer best-in-class emission performance and will be paired with a selective catalytic reduction (SCR) system and a future diesel particulate filter (DPF) system once certified by CARB to meet the CARB commercial harbor craft regulations, as well as U.S. Coast Guard acceptance for safety.
Jeff Sherman, Senior Commercial Marine Sales Manager, Rolls-Royce, said: “We take great pride that the newest Catalina Express ferry, like others before it, will be powered by mtu engines. This latest project demonstrates how Rolls-Royce is providing customers with powerful propulsion systems that balance performance with environmental responsibility as it continues to advance its strategic growth goals in the marine market.”
Founded in 1981, Catalina Express has grown from an operator with a single 60-passenger vessel into a multi-ship fleet and leading provider of marine transportation from mainland California to Santa Catalina Island. Most of the vessels in the company’s current fleet feature mtu engines. Over the past four decades, the company has transported more than 33 million passengers, offering up to 30 daily roundtrips year-round from three mainland ports: San Pedro; Long Beach; and Dana Point. The new ferry will be based out of the company’s San Pedro terminal.
“For over 43 years, Catalina Express has been environmentally conscious and has been able to meet or exceed federal and state regulations to help reduce emissions,” said Greg Bombard, President and CEO of Catalina Express. “We strive to remain environmentally friendly in all aspects of our operations. We are proud to once again partner with Rolls-Royce to install a newly designed Tier 4 mtu engine in the construction of our new vessel, further advancing our commitment to sustainability and cleaner marine transportation.”
Designed by Incat Crowther of Lafayette, LA, the new ship is being constructed by Marine Group Boat Works of Chula Vista, CA. The ship’s engines will be integrated with an mtu monitoring and control system and Hamiltonjet waterjets. MSHS Pacific Power Group of Kent, WA serves as the distribution partner for the project and will oversee the custom packaging, installation and sea trials of the propulsion system. The mtu engines are scheduled for delivery in Q4 2025, with completion of the vessel expected in late 2026.
Together, MSHS Pacific Power and Rolls-Royce will provide service and maintenance support for the engines throughout their operational life. This ongoing commitment ensures marine customers such as Catalina Express benefit from reliable, worry-free performance after installation, strengthening long-term customer relationships.
LA MER is part of California Climate Investments, a statewide initiative that puts billions of Cap-and-Trade dollars to work reducing greenhouse gas emissions, strengthening the economy, and improving public health and the environment – particularly in disadvantaged communities.
