The M/V Monomoy, last of three offshore energy service vessels the Steamship Authority has converted to freight and passenger ferries, left Alabama Wednesday for its new home in New England.
Engineering and maintenance director Zach Lawrence told the port council Tuesday that the Monomoy was completing its sea trials that day and would depart on the northern journey as weather permitted.
Like its sister ships M/V Aquinnah and M/V Barnstable, the Monomoy was refitted for Steamship Authority service at the Alabama Ship Yard in Mobile, where the boat’s midsection was replaced to meet Coast Guard requirements for passenger ferries.
Marc Amundsen, the boat line’s chief operating officer, said the Monomoy would fuel up in Tampa, Fla. and again in Morehead City, N.C. on its voyage to the Steamship Authority maintenance terminal in Fairhaven.
The trip should take nine to 10 days with favorable weather, Mr. Lawrence said.
This article appears in January 16, 2026.
What’s the cost to move a vessel from Alabama to Fairhaven?
Far less than the cost to build a vessel in Fairhaven.
Far less than the cost per mile in ferry service.
Far less crew required.