UC San Diego’s Scripps Institution of Oceanography is moving forward with plans to build a revolutionary hydrogen-powered research vessel, the Coastal Class Research Vessel (CCRV), which will be a game-changer in oceanographic research. The CCRV, with a dual-powered hydrogen fuel cell and diesel-electric propulsion system, will be capable of conducting 75% of its missions using liquid hydrogen, resulting in zero emissions and minimal noise, ideal for contamination-free sampling and enhanced underwater acoustic sensor performance. This initiative aligns with California's commitment to reducing air pollution and fostering a carbon-neutral economy. The vessel's design has received approval from the American Bureau of Shipping and the U.S. Coast Guard for its innovative zero-emission hydrogen propulsion system. The CCRV will replace the aging R/V Robert Gordon Sproul, enabling California-based research missions focusing on marine ecosystems, ocean acidification, sea-level rise, El Niño events, harmful algal blooms, and other environmental challenges. The project is funded by various entities, including the State of California, the U.S. Office of Naval Research, and the Department of Energy, as part of the ARCHES initiative for clean hydrogen energy systems. Shipyards interested in constructing the CCRV can submit proposals, with the final selection expected in June 2025. Once operational, the CCRV will join the U.S. Academic Research Fleet, supporting numerous scientists and students in advancing marine research and environmental stewardship. This innovative vessel is a result of collaborative efforts and cutting-edge technologies, with a focus on providing a capable platform for ocean scientists and researchers to further ocean science. The project signifies a step forward in utilizing renewable energy and clean hydrogen technology to drive sustainable marine research and support California's climate action objectives.