A Note from the General Manager
As I reflect on my first few months at Casco Bay Lines, I’m struck by the sense of purpose and connection that defines this organization. It’s been an honor to step into a role where every day brings the opportunity to serve our incredible community. Whether it’s maintaining reliable ferry service year-round or pushing forward innovative initiatives, none of it would be possible without the dedication of our team and the trust of those we serve.
To our passengers, thank you. Whether you commute daily, visit loved ones, or simply take in the beauty of the bay aboard our ferries, your support drives everything we do.
It’s been an exciting year of growth, progress, and, of course, plenty of unforgettable moments—and I’m thrilled to share some highlights that made 2024 one for the books.
Warm regards,
John Warnock
General Manager
Casco Bay Lines
Charting a Greener Course
In 2024, sustainability took center stage as we continued our commitment to making waves in greener ferry operations. Leading the charge is Battery Steele, our hybrid diesel-electric vessel, which is on track to arrive in Portland in 2025 and is designed to eliminate up to 800 metric tons of CO2 emissions annually. As one of the first hybrid commuter vessels to be built in a Northeast shipyard, Battery Steele is a true trailblazer in reducing emissions and boosting efficiency. To support these advancements, we added a shoreside charging unit at our terminal in Portland, complete with a robotic arm that will allow Battery Steele to charge while docked.
We also launched our Sustainability Committee, bringing together team members across departments with islanders and passengers to collaborate on ways to reduce our environmental footprint, optimize energy use, and promote sustainable practices both on the water and on land.
All of these green innovations require careful planning and financial sustainability. To continue providing reliable service and modernizing our fleet, we made some necessary rate adjustments. While we did not take this increase lightly, these changes are a crucial part of ensuring that we can continue to meet the needs of our passengers for years to come.
In September, we had the honor of sharing our green progress with the Federal Transit Administration (FTA) during an event celebrating sustainability across the country. Acting Administrator Veronica Vanterpool emphasized the importance of projects like Battery Steele, recognizing the role of transportation solutions in tackling climate change.
Leading Starts with Listening
New beginnings and fresh perspectives were also a theme in 2024. Casco Bay Lines welcomed John Warnock as the new General Manager, who brought a wealth of maritime experience and a steadfast commitment to operational excellence. With John at the helm, we’re focused on ensuring that we continue to meet the needs of our passengers and island communities while keeping our service top-notch.
Our Board of Directors welcomed a new member, joined by several returning voices. Their continued dedication speaks to the pride and purpose that makes Casco Bay Lines a cornerstone of our community, where we’re all invested and proud to serve all of our passengers. Together, this leadership team is focused on transparency, engagement, and making sure that Casco Bay Lines continues to evolve while staying true to the heart of what makes us special.
Cruising through Memorable Moments
2024 was full of celebrations and connections. One of the biggest highlights was our Cruising Casco Bay Summer Concert Series—a surefire hit that brought together live music and stunning bay views, all with the help of our partner 98.9 WCLZ and sponsor Three of Strong Spirits. From July 18th to September 5th, we enjoyed incredible performances by Gina and the Red Eye Flight Crew, the Kenya Hall Band, and two new cruise crooners: Hello Newman and Toby McAllister. Every night sold out, making this year’s series one to remember. We can’t wait to see what next summer has in store!
Two other memorable events were the Maine and Mass Maritime Job Fairs, where we had the pleasure of meeting passionate individuals eager to join the maritime industry. It was fantastic to connect with a diverse group of talented people who share our commitment to sustainability and service. We’re excited about the growth of our team and the future of Casco Bay Lines.
We also launched a vintage-inspired merchandise collection, bringing the timeless charm of Casco Bay to new and old fans alike. With nostalgic designs on hats, pennants, beanies, postcards, and water bottles, the collection is perfect for anyone looking to create new memories or relive cherished ones. Whether you’re cruising the bay or reminiscing about past voyages, these items allow you to take a piece of Casco Bay with you wherever you go!
At the Helm and Looking to the Horizon
As 2024 draws to a close, we’re looking forward to the exciting future ahead. Our focus remains on what matters most: serving our community, protecting our environment, and continuing to foster connections across the bay. With new projects on the horizon and a dedicated team steering us forward, Casco Bay Lines is ready to chart a course toward an even brighter, greener future.