Experience Manila’s New Pasig River E-Ferry, M/B Dalaray

If you are looking for a fresher, greener, and more scenic way to travel around Metro Manila, the country’s first locally developed battery-electric passenger ferry might be exactly what you need. Called M/B Dalaray, this new ferry will begin operating along the Pasig River in November, offering commuters a smooth and eco-friendly alternative to the usual traffic-filled roads.

Filipino innovation meets sustainable design

M/B Dalaray is a product of Filipino ingenuity, developed by the Electrical and Electronics Engineering Institute at UP Diliman under the Department of Science and Technology. The name Dalaray comes from a Tagalog word that means the flow of current, which perfectly captures the essence of this electric ferry. It was designed to navigate the unique challenges of the Pasig River, including shallow areas, low bridges, and water hyacinths.

The catamaran-style ferry can accommodate 40 passengers and three crew members. It is powered by two 50 kW electric outboard motors with a hybrid solar inverter system and roof-mounted solar panels. This allows the ferry to cover approximately 45 kilometres per charge, enough for two to three hours of continuous operation. Charging stations are already set up in Guadalupe, Escolta, and Napindan, ensuring a convenient and reliable way to keep the ferry powered.

A comfortable and scenic ride

Riding M/B Dalaray is a calm and enjoyable experience. Compared to diesel ferries, it is much quieter and produces zero direct emissions. The catamaran design provides stability, so passengers can enjoy a smooth journey along the river. Inside, the cabin is spacious and airy, with large windows giving a clear view of landmarks such as Malacañang Palace, Manila Central Post Office, Jones Bridge, and riverside murals. Each seat has a life vest, a safety card, and a guide with fun facts about the ferry and the route.

The air-conditioned cabin is ideal for staying cool in Manila’s tropical climate. The ferry layout also allows for up to five tons of cargo when passenger numbers are low. Every detail has been designed with comfort, safety, and flexibility in mind.

Exploring Manila in a new way

The M/B Dalaray is not just for commuting, it also opens up new opportunities for tourism. The development team studied river transport systems in Bangkok and Seoul to learn how ferries can attract visitors, and the Pasig River is ideal for this purpose. The route connects five major cities, including Pasig, Makati, Mandaluyong, Taguig, and Manila. This makes it easier for students, workers, and tourists to discover heritage sites, business districts, and scenic spots along the riverbanks. In the future, similar ferries could link Marikina and towns around Laguna Lake, covering parts of Rizal and Laguna.

M/B Dalaray represents a new way of commuting in Metro Manila. It reduces traffic congestion, lowers pollution, and provides a scenic alternative for everyday travel. It is more than a ferry, it is a step towards a cleaner, smarter, and uniquely Filipino form of transport. The next time you want to avoid traffic, consider taking the river route and experiencing Manila from a completely new perspective.

Image credit: MB Dalaray Electric Ferry | Facebook Page