May 19, 2022
Ian McIver, President of Seaspan Marine Transportation, has recently announced that Seaspan ULC signed a shipbuilding contract for the construction of two 7600m3 LNG bunker vessels, with the option for a third vessel.
In a global context, the International Maritime Organization (IMO) targets and regulatory requirements are causing ship owners to adopt decarbonization solutions in their fleet and because of the LNG availability and commercial feasibility of engine technologies, many large shipping companies have acquired and ordered LNG-powered vessels.
This contract demonstrates Seaspan’s commitment to bringing a safe and innovative LNG bunkering solution to the West Coast of North America but also shows leadership in supporting the transition to cleaner, lower-emission marine fuels in British Columbia, Canada, and the world. Seaspan is also actively looking at decreasing the carbon intensity of LNG and considering solutions such as accessing renewable natural gas (RNG) to create a lower carbon option.
With its existing LNG-powered ferries, Escort DF (LNG and Diesel) tugs for HaiSea Marine and LNG-fueled vessel conversion program at Seaspan Shipyards in Victoria, Seaspan is positioned as an industry-leading Canadian marine company with advanced LNG capabilities and expertise.
For the design of the LNG Bunker Vessels, Seaspan worked closely with the Canadian-based team at VARD Marine Inc. to incorporate emerging technologies resulting in a decrease in emissions and underwater noise. The design is focused on safe, efficient, and economical refueling 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 (CIMC SOE), has been awarded the contract to build the 7600m3 LNG bunkering vessels. CIMC SOE is one of the most experienced small-scale gas carrier shipyards in the world, having delivered more than 30 LNG gas carriers.
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.