Seaspan orders two LNG bunker vessels
The contract demonstrates Seaspan’s commitment to bringing LNG bunkering to the West Coast of North America. Seaspan is also actively looking at the potential of renewable natural gas to create a lower carbon option.
Seaspan has worked on the design off the bunker vessels with the Canadian-based team at VARD Marine. The vessels will incorporate emerging technologies resulting in a decrease in emissions and underwater noise. The design is focused on safe, efficient, and economical refuel.ing of multiple ship types with an ability to transfer to and from a wide range of terminals. The design will allow the vessel to engage in ship-to-ship LNG transfer as well as coastal and short sea shipping operations.
CIMC Sinopacific Offshore & Engineering has been awarded the contract to build the vessels. The yard is one of the most experienced small-scale gas carrier shipyards in the world, having delivered more than 30 LNG gas carriers.
Seaspan secured Approval in Principle (AIP) for the design from Bureau Veritas last year. It is fitted with two azimuthing thrusters and two bow thrusters for exceptional manoeuvring and station-keeping capabilities.
Seaspan is the first Canadian company to order LNG bunker tonnage for the Pacific Northwest. The first vessel is expected to be delivered and in operation in 2024.
