Seaspan ULC has signed a shipbuilding contract for the construction of two 7,600 cubic metre (cbm) capacity LNG bunker vessels that will operate in the Pacific Northwest, with the option for a third vessel.
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.
According to Seaspan, the design is focused on safe, efficient, and economical refuelling of multiple ship types with an ability to transfer to and from a wide range of terminals. Moreover, the design will allow the vessel to engage in ship-to-ship LNG transfer as well as coastal and short sea shipping operations.
Seaspan said it 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.
CIMC Sinopacific Offshore & Engineering (CIMC SOE), has been awarded the contract to build the vessels.
Seaspan is said to be 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.
