LaRay Hamilton, Resident Engineer, with the Capt. Almer Dinsmore at the Senesco Marine shipyard in Rhode Island
The Augusta, Maine, Construction Services team brought its expertise to the shipyard, providing resident engineering and construction-phase support for the historic Capt. Almer Dinsmore.
For Kleinfelder’s Augusta, ME, Construction Services team, a recent project extended beyond roads and bridges and into the shipyard. The team supported the delivery of the Capt. Almer Dinsmore, the Maine State Ferry Service’s first hybrid diesel-electric ferry.
Under the New England Area’s multi-year on-call contract with the Maine Department of Transportation (MaineDOT), Kleinfelder provided resident engineering services for the $19.5 million project, which brought the first hybrid diesel-electric ferry designed and built in New England to the people of Maine.
A First-of-Its-Kind Vessel
Designed by Gilbert Associates and constructed by Senesco Marine in Rhode Island, the 154-foot ferry can accommodate up to 250 passengers and 23 vehicles. The vessel will operate between Rockland and the island community of Vinalhaven.
The Capt. Almer Dinsmore is the first hybrid diesel-electric ferry designed and constructed in New England. Its BAE Systems HybriGen power and propulsion system combines two 600-horsepower Caterpillar diesel engines, electric boost motors, and generators to support more efficient operations and reduce emissions.
Construction began in 2022, and the vessel was launched and christened in November 2024. It arrived at its new home port in Rockland in July 2026, marking an important milestone in the continued modernization of Maine’s ferry fleet.
Kleinfelder’s Role in the Project
Kleinfelder assumed responsibility for resident engineering services in July 2024. The team provided contract administration, construction-phase services, project oversight, and coordination with MaineDOT, the Maine State Ferry Service, the shipyard, and the U.S. Coast Guard.
The complex project required ongoing coordination and careful oversight through the vessel’s delivery.
Preparing for Service
Although the ferry has arrived in Rockland, several steps remain before it begins carrying passengers. The crew must first become familiar with the vessel and its hybrid propulsion system. The U.S. Coast Guard will then inspect the ferry and identify any final items that must be addressed.
Once the inspection process is complete, the crew will conduct required safety drills with the U.S. Coast Guard before the vessel receives its permanent Certificate of Inspection and can enter service.
Once operational, the Capt. Almer Dinsmore will provide more sustainable and efficient transportation for Maine residents and visitors while supporting Vinalhaven’s economy and island community.