Catalina Express – USA
April 17, 2025MV Sea Change – USA
Operating in the San Francisco Bay Area
The Sea Change, designed by Incat Crowther and built by All American Marine for Switch Maritime, is the world’s first commercial hydrogen-powered high-speed ferry, marking a pivotal step toward zero-emission marine transport. UES Marine was selected to design and supply adaptive, track-mounted fold-up seating to meet the vessel’s dynamic operational needs. Proudly manufactured in Whidbey Island, Washington, UES Marine’s seating solutions for Sea Change are Buy America compliant, Coast Guard approved, and designed for high-speed craft.
The Challenge
- Provide removable seating with flush-mount tracks, eliminating tripping hazards and fixed studs to enable open-deck use.
- Engineer fold-up seating compatible with a modular track system, allowing easy reconfiguration or removal.
- Meet strict U.S. Coast Guard safety regulations and Buy America compliance requirements while delivering comfort and durability.
- Coordinate seamlessly with the vessel’s tight new-build schedule to ensure a smooth, professional installation.
The Solution
- A custom track system was developed to sit flush with the deck, maintaining a clean surface when seats are removed.
- UES Marine designed an innovative deck foot to adapt the Fold-Up Seat to the track system, enabling secure, tool-free reconfiguration.
- All components were built at UES Marine’s Whidbey Island facility to ensure full Buy America compliance and alignment with U.S. manufacturing priorities.
- UES Marine’s experienced installation team worked closely with shipbuilders to ensure a precise fit-out, reducing lead times and complexity during the final phase of construction.
The Outcome
- Sea Change launched with a flexible, future-proof interior that complements its groundbreaking hydrogen propulsion system.
- The track-mounted fold-up seating allows the operator to adapt the deck layout for passenger service or cargo use, all while maintaining safety and visual appeal.
- UES Marine’s American-made, Coast Guard-approved seating supports the highest standards of compliance, comfort, and innovation for high-speed craft.
- The successful installation reinforced UES Marine’s reputation as a trusted partner in new builds and complex refits across North America.
The Fold Up Seat and mounted track rails provided a flexible and adaptive solution whilst meeting US maritime safety and engineering standards.
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