Page 63 - RedWhiteFleet_interiors_Sep10

MEET THE FLEET

essel purchases, interior retrofitting and engine soon after and added back into the fleet. In 2013, the larger
upgrades, research and development of new and and more fuel-efficient Zalophus was purchased, and the
Vmore efficient maritime technology: all of these and Harbor King was subsequently sold. In recent years, attention
more are a part of the yearly life cycle of the Red and White has been focused on bringing the fleet to the most energy-
Fleet. In 1997, when Tom Escher purchased the business, efficient standards possible, with all eyes on the 2018 launch
the deal included three boats: the Harbor Queen, Harbor of the Enhydra—the largest 600-passenger, all-aluminum ABOVE: A patch shows the iconic
Princess, and Royal Prince. The Harbor King was purchased hybrid-electric passenger vessel in the United States—and Red and White Fleet design style,
the zero-emissions hydrogen-fuel-cell vessel, the Water- with bold red and white colors and
Go-Round. the teardrop wave formation that
adorn the bows of all the boats in
All of this would not be possible without the many the Fleet.
partners the Red and White Fleet works with in the maritime
industry, including Golden Gate Zero Emissions Marine LEFT: Passengers crowd the railings
(responsible for development of the Water-Go-Round) and to get a view of San Francisco during a
shipyards like Bay Ship and Yacht, who provide the dry- Red and White Fleet tour in the 1970s.
docking services that are mandatory every two years for OPPOSITE: The Harbor King is
each of the Fleet’s vessels. The Fleet’s in-house maintenance christened at Colberg Boat Works
and engineering teams are also invaluable to the continued in Stockton, California, with the
operation of the boats, keeping the Fleet’s historic vessels traditional breaking of a champagne
in top form so that passengers may enjoy them for years to bottle on the bow. Every new ship
come, a testament to the company’s commitment to quality christening is worthy of a celebration.
and sustainability.

62 • Red and White Fleet