Maritime Partners LLC, a Jones Act-focused financing solutions specialist, has completed a sale and leaseback refinancing deal for the world's first hydrogen-fueled passenger ferry, Sea Change, developed by SWITCH Maritime LLC. This partnership marks a significant step towards introducing next-generation technology to the aging U.S. ferry fleet. The 75-passenger Sea Change, which began commercial operations in San Francisco Bay in 2024, is the first vessel of SWITCH Maritime. Proceeds from the deal will support SWITCH in engineering and building zero-emission vessels that can match the size and performance of diesel ferries in major U.S. markets like San Francisco, Seattle, Boston, and New York City. SWITCH Maritime is introducing 150- and 300-passenger catamaran fast ferry designs, along with a larger steel-hull RoPax ferry design, to help replace aging diesel vessels in the U.S. market. With over 800 ferries in the U.S. suitable for transitioning to electric propulsion, SWITCH aims to facilitate the adoption of zero-emission technology for commercial harbor craft, totaling approximately 4,400 vessels. The company provides vessel leases and support services, including fueling, crew training, and maintenance, making it easier for ferry operators to integrate next-gen vessels into their fleets. According to Austin Sperry, co-founder of Maritime Partners, SWITCH's successful execution of design, construction, and regulatory challenges aligns well with their work in larger vessel types, indicating a promising partnership for the expansion of SWITCH's fleet. The Sea Change's operational success in the San Francisco Bay Ferry system serves as a testament to the commercial viability of hydrogen fuel cell technology in the maritime industry, laying the groundwork for future deployments and advancements in sustainable ferry operations.