The Ferry’s operators hope to receive an extension on converting its vessels to meet standards.
The historic Balboa Island Ferry in Newport Harbor faces the threat of extinction due to a new California state mandate. The California Air Resources Board has ordered commercial harbor craft to begin utilizing renewable diesel fuel along with converting to electric engines by December 2025.
Balboa Island Ferry went into service in 1919 and carries people, cars, and bicycles 900 feet across the Newport Harbor from Agate Avenue to Palm Avenue on Balboa Peninsula. During the busy season in the summer, three boats are in service from 6:30am until midnight.
The ferry, as a result, has become an iconic attraction for residents. But the Beek family, which has owned and operated Balboa Island Ferry for more than 100 years, has explained it will be difficult for them to meet the state’s new emissions standard.
“Ours is so unique and different,” said Seymour Beek, the owner of Balboa Island Ferry. “People come to town, and the one thing they want to do is ride the ferry. It serves a useful purpose and is also a source of entertainment.”
If the ferry cannot adhere to the new standard and closes, vehicles would have to drive further to get to the Balboa Peninsula. This would result in increased emissions from the extra driving. Additionally, the historic ferry is a tourist destination.
“The Balboa Island Ferry is part of our culture, it’s part of our heritage,” said Gary Sherwin, President and CEO of Visit Newport Beach. “There are certain iconic attractions in California. The ferry is ours. We have the harbor and beaches, and the ferry is right up there when it comes to what makes us Newport Beach. It’s more than a transportation device, it is part of the uniqueness that separate us from other cities.”
The ferry will not go under without a fight though. California state Assemblywoman Diane Dixon stepped up and said she would sponsor a bill if necessary to help the small business.
