Charlie Walther will present pictures, stories, and explanations chronicling the history of ferry boats—both the vessels themselves and their operations—on San Francisco Bay starting in 1847 to the present. Historic photos will be shown to illustrate the scope of the ferry services over the past 175 years. Changes in scale and technology will be also be discussed.

About Charlie Walther

Charlie Walther started his marine career working on tugs in San Francisco bay while attending the California Maritime Academy. Following graduation as an engineer, he worked for Crowley Maritime for over 20 years, becoming a USCG licensed chief engineer and the director of engineering. In this position he oversaw the mechanical aspects and the engineers of a fleet of about 200 tugboats, 200 barges, 20 ships, and 20 ferry boats. He then started his own consulting company, which focused on tugboat repowers, diesel engine training, oil tankers, and high speed ferry boat design and construction management. He has played a major role in the design and construction of many of the ferries currently plying the waters of San Francisco Bay.