Seaspan splashes second LNG bunkering vessel

Canadian shipowner Seaspan Energy has launched the second of its three 7,600 cbm liquefied natural gas (LNG) bunkering vessels, Seaspan Lions.

As explained, this series of vessels are each 112.8 meters in length, 18.6 meters in width, and 5 meters in draft, with a design speed of 13 knots. The LNG bunkering vessels are being built by CIMC Sinopacific Offshore & Engineering (CIMC SOE).

For the design of the LNG bunker ships, Seaspan worked with the Canadian-based team at VARD Marine to incorporate emerging technologies that could result in a decrease in emissions and underwater noise.

According to Seaspan, 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 and coastal and short-sea shipping operations.

These vessels are named after iconic West Coast mountains and the first two vessels, Seaspan Garibaldi (Nch’kay̓) and Seaspan Lions (Ch’ich’iyúy Elxwíkn), will be delivered in 2024 with the third vessel arriving in 2025.

“Solving the LNG infrastructure gap on the West Coast will play a vital role in creating new markets for lower-emission fuels and a more sustainable maritime industry,” said Ian McIver, President of Seaspan Energy.

“We understand the importance of providing low-carbon bunkering solutions for ship owners who want to decarbonize their operations and we are committed to supporting the transition to cleaner, lower-emission marine fuels in British Columbia, Canada and the world.”

Seaspan Lions will provide LNG fueling services for vessels on the West Coast of North America, becoming the first company to provide LNG bunkering in the Pacific Northwest.

Meanwhile, Seaspan Garibaldi is set to deliver low-carbon solutions to the global market and will be based in the Panama region. The ship was launched at the beginning of this year.