Press Release
Bellingham, WA May 28, 2026:
All American Marine (AAM), in partnership with Harbor Breeze Cruises, proudly announces the delivery of a new state-of-the-art 108’ x 32.5’ Parallel hybrid passenger vessel, after successful completion of sea trials. El Escudo will now enter deployment in the ports of Los Angeles and Long Beach, California.
Purpose-built to serve harbor tours, whale watch cruises, and special event dining experiences throughout the LA/Long Beach area, the vessel represents a major advancement in low-emissions passenger vessel design. Naval architecture was provided by Nic de Waal of Teknicraft Design, which ensured the vessel exceeded U.S. Environmental Protection Agency Tier 4 and California Air Resources Board (CARB) emissions standards through optimized hull efficiency, full integration of advanced exhaust aftertreatment systems, and a design centered around a parallel hybrid propulsion architecture, enabling zero-emissions operation during low speed harbor operations.
The vessel achieves its operational mission through a highly integrated propulsion system combining Selective Catalytic Reduction (SCR) and Diesel Particulate Filters (DPF) with a parallel hybrid battery propulsion system supplied by ABB Inc. The system features twin 300kW electric traction motors and a 588kW BorgWarner Energy Storage System (ESS), enabling zero-emissions operation during harbor tours and port operations.
This project serves as a demonstration of the latest commercially available marine technologies and exceeds the most rigorous emissions standards currently in force in North America, including the most recent CARB harbor craft rules. Funding support is provided through CARB’s Advanced Technology Demonstration and Pilot Projects grant for the Los Angeles Marine Emission Reduction (LA MER) Project, administered by the Port of Los Angeles (City of Los Angeles Harbor Department). The vessel establishes a new benchmark in maritime innovation as a first-of-its-kind, multi-purpose monohull operating as a USCG Subchapter K passenger vessel, certified for “Limited Coastwise” service and outfitted with advanced data collection and monitoring capabilities. Its customized design provides Harbor Breeze Cruises with exceptional operational flexibility while integrating advanced technology throughout the vessel.
The vessel features multiple passenger decks, a custom stadium-style seating platform on the bow, and a total capacity of up to 350 passengers, with enhancements throughout that prioritize comfort, visibility, and the overall guest experience. All American Marine previously built and delivered two vessels for Harbor Breeze Cruises—Triumphant and La Espada—and is continuing its long-standing partnership with the operator. Studio Sculli, the Italian design house, provided the distinctive exterior and interior styling for this next-generation vessel.
“We’re incredibly excited to see the El Escudo enter into service,” said Dan Salas, Owner and Operator of Harbor Breeze Cruises. “All American Marine has already delivered two outstanding vessels for our fleet, and once again they’ve brought our vision to life. This vessel sets a new standard for passenger vessels—not only in design and build quality, but in propulsion technology that truly moves the industry toward a cleaner future.”
The project team represents the leading edge of maritime innovation, combining expertise across design, construction, propulsion, and systems integration. The vessel is powered by twin MAN D2862 U.S. Environmental Protection Agency Tier 4 diesel engines supplied by Northern Lights, driving fixed-pitch propellers through a remotely mounted Reintjes gearbox provided by Karl Senner Inc. The vessel offers four distinct operational modes: conventional diesel propulsion, fully electric zero-emissions propulsion, underway battery charging, and stationary shoreside battery charging. This state-of-the-art propulsion package allows the vessel to achieve substantial emissions reductions while maintaining performance and efficiency for longer routes.
“All American Marine and Teknicraft Design are proud to deliver this groundbreaking vessel,” said Ron Wille, President of All American Marine. “This propulsion package represents a first for a U.S. passenger vessel of this type and delivers both low and zero-emissions capabilities without sacrificing operational range or flexibility. We’re excited to support Harbor Breeze Cruises as the vessel enters full service.”
About All American Marine:
All American Marine, located on the shores of Bellingham Bay, was founded in 1987 and specializes in the construction of custom-tailored aluminum vessels. Today, the company has become a leading builder of high-speed passenger boats, hybrid vessels, dinner cruise boats, patrol vessels and research vessels. All American Marine is proud to have recently become part of the Bryton Marine Group family of boat builders and maintains its mission to adding quality and innovation in every aspect of the business. Family Owned. Locally Made.
About Harbor Breeze:
Harbor Breeze Cruises is a premier provider of marine tourism and event experiences in the Long Beach, California area. For decades, Harbor Breeze has offered scenic harbor tours, whale watching excursions, and special event cruises that showcase the natural beauty and vibrant maritime culture of the Los Angeles and Long Beach port complex. Known for its commitment to guest satisfaction and safety, Harbor Breeze operates a modern fleet and continues to innovate in service offerings that appeal to both local residents and visitors alike.
About the Sustainable Heavy-Duty Initiatives for Future Technology (SHIFT) program:
SHIFT is an incentive program administered by the California Air Resources Board (CARB) supporting the development and demonstration of advanced, low- and zero-emission technologies for heavy-duty vehicles, off-road equipment, and goods movement. Formerly known as Advanced Technology Demonstration and Pilot Projects, SHIFT investments help accelerate the transition of emerging technologies from pre-commercial demonstration to commercial deployment by supporting early deployments and at-scale testing in real-world use. As a part of CARB’s Clean Transportation Incentives, SHIFT projects advance innovative on- and off-road solutions that reduce air pollution, improve public health and support California’s climate and air quality goals.
About California Climate Investments:
California Climate Investments uses Cap-and-Invest auction proceeds to fund projects that reduce harmful emissions, protect public health, strengthen local economies, and support natural environments. With a strong focus on communities most impacted by pollution and limited access to resources, California Climate Investments helps build a more equitable and sustainable future.
