Marine Operation of Gas Turbine Engines and Waterjet Pumps for Small Passenger Vessels

This paper describes the planning, developmental, equipment selection and operational problem phases of the high-speed ferry system presently being operated on San Francisco Bay by the Golden Gate Bridge, Highway and Transportation District. The reasons for the selection of the vessel propulsion package consisting of gas turbine engines and waterjet pumps are discussed in some detail. Most importantly, the paper covers the problems experienced to date with this equipment in continuous marine operation.