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 Hamilton brand 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.
Press photos for download can be found at Media Centre (mtu-solutions.com)