Georgia Commissions New Ferry for Sapelo Island
The Georgia Department of Natural Resources has contracted a new 150-passenger catamaran to serve the island route.
Updated on Oct. 29, 2026 in Cruises
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Georgia has commissioned Derecktor Shipyards to build a new 70-foot catamaran ferry to transport residents and visitors to Sapelo Island. The vessel will operate between Meridian Dock and Marsh Landing, replacing the primary transport while the older state-operated ferry transitions to a reserve role.
Why it matters
The new ferry design prioritizes reliability and lower maintenance costs, ensuring essential travel for researchers and residents remains consistent. By utilizing hullforms adapted from the offshore wind sector, the state aims to reduce lifecycle expenses while maintaining service capacity.
The new 70-foot (21-meter) catamaran ferry will traverse the 7-mile (11-km) route to Sapelo Island. Chartwell Marine designed the vessel, which builds upon the shipyard's experience with smaller, 12-meter craft.
The players
Georgia Department of Natural Resources
This state agency is responsible for managing, conserving, and protecting Georgia's natural and cultural resources.
Derecktor Shipyards
This Florida-based shipbuilder specializes in the construction and repair of high-performance vessels for commercial and private clients.
Chartwell Marine
This naval architecture and marine engineering consultancy focuses on innovative design for high-speed commercial vessels.
The details
Construction will take place at the Derecktor Shipyards facility in Dania Beach, Florida. The design incorporates technology from the offshore wind industry to ensure the vessel can handle the specific operational demands of the Sapelo Island route.
Timeline
Construction of the new ferry is scheduled to begin by the end of 2026.
Travel Outlook
The transition to specialized offshore wind hullforms marks a shift in how public transit agencies source maritime technology for isolated island communities. By prioritizing commercial-grade durability over standard recreational designs, the state mimics the operational standards required by the renewable energy sector.
Residents and regular visitors to Sapelo Island can expect the current ferry to remain operational as the primary transport until the new vessel is completed. No immediate changes to travel schedules or boarding procedures at Meridian Dock are anticipated during the construction phase.
The takeaway
The move to upgrade the Sapelo Island ferry fleet highlights the importance of leveraging specialized industrial design to ensure long-term maritime connectivity. Passengers can expect more reliable transit once the vessel enters service, supported by a proven engineering framework.
Further reading
For more information on state transit infrastructure, visit the Georgia Cruises section.
Live Poll
Should state governments prioritize funding infrastructure improvements for isolated island communities?
