Incat Crowther has been selected by Port Houston to design a new hybrid electric tour vessel for Houston Ship Channel tours. Incat Crowther will partner with Louisiana-based shipbuilder Breaux Brothers on the project, meaning the new vessel will be designed and constructed in the USA.
The new 22m vessel will replace the near 70-year-old MV Sam Houston, which has been servicing the route since the port began tours in 1958. It will be capable of operating in all-electric battery mode during regular two-hour educational tours, and will be charged via a bespoke shoreside connection using AC-DC converters. Operational flexibility has been enhanced through the inclusion of backup generators that can extend the range of the vessel if needed.
“More than two million people have taken our boat tour to see Houston’s vast maritime activity firsthand,” said Charlie Jenkins, CEO of Port Houston. “It’s a unique experience that we are proud to provide. We are excited to partner with Incat Crowther and Breaux Brothers on a new, low-emission vessel that will reduce the carbon footprint of our tour while offering guests a truly memorable experience.”
“This vessel demonstrates that modern electric propulsion technology can provide both increased operational efficiency and flexibility, while offering an elevated customer experience,” added Grant Pecoraro, managing director of Incat Crowther North America. “We’re pleased to be partnering with Breaux Brothers to deliver a cutting-edge solution tailored to Port Houston’s operational needs.”
Construction on the new vessel is set to begin in the second half of 2025, with the vessel expected to enter service by late 2026.
In related news, Twerenbold Reisen Group has christened the diesel-electric hybrid river cruiser Excellence Crown