Our newest vessel has entered the Atlantic Ocean and will soon be making its way up the coast of New England towards Portland. This is an exciting and important step forward for the future of ferry service in Casco Bay.
Battery Steele, our highly anticipated new boat, launched in early April in Rhode Island. It is expected to arrive in Portland later this summer, and following final commissioning and crew training, will go into service in the fall. Battery Steele will serve the route between Portland and Peaks Island and eventually replace the Machigonne II.
Built for the Future
Battery Steele is a 164-foot steel vessel equipped with a cutting-edge diesel-electric hybrid propulsion system—one of the first of its kind for a public passenger ferry in the United States. By using advanced battery technology in place of a conventional diesel mechanical system, the vessel is designed to significantly reduce emissions while improving the overall rider experience.
Once in service, Battery Steele is expected to prevent up to 800 metric tons of carbon dioxide emissions annually. The vessel will primarily operate on battery power, with shoreside charging at the Portland terminal and backup generators onboard to ensure reliability year-round. The ferry is designed to meet the needs of the Peaks Island community while supporting a cleaner, quieter ride across the bay.
The name Battery Steele, of course, carries deep local significance.
It honors the historic former military fort on Peaks Island—one of the largest gun batteries in the United States and a landmark that is a source of great community pride. The site has transformed in recent years from a military installation into a public space for exploration, reflection, and connection, thanks to preservation efforts that began in the 1990s.
Naming the vessel after this iconic place reflects that same spirit—honoring the past while looking ahead to a more sustainable future.
Launching in North Kingstown
In April, members of the Casco Bay Lines team traveled to Senesco Marine, a premier shipyard in Rhode Island. We celebrated the launch of Battery Steele and smashed a bottle of champagne in the boat’s honor.
Designed by Elliott Bay Design Group and constructed by Senesco Marine, Battery Steele brings together innovative engineering and skilled craftsmanship. And as one of the first electrically propelled ferries built in New England, it positions Casco Bay Lines at the forefront of cleaner maritime transportation.
In the months ahead, Battery Steele will undergo final testing before entering service in Casco Bay Lines’ fleet. When it does, it will carry not just passengers and vehicles, but a renewed commitment to the future of Casco Bay.
We look forward to welcoming you aboard!