According to the announcement by Seaspan Marine Transportation president Ian McIver, the contract with CIMC Sinopacific Offshore & Engineering (CIMC SOE) calls for the construction of 7,600-m3 LNG bunker vessels, with the option for a third vessel. The first vessel is expected to be delivered and in operation in 2024.
Seaspan is actively looking at decreasing the carbon intensity of LNG and is considering solutions such as accessing renewable natural gas (RNG) to create a lower carbon option. LNG Shipping & Terminals reported on Seaspan Ferries conducting pilot tests with FortisBC on the use of RNG in October.
Seaspan said it is positioned as an industry-leading Canadian marine company with advanced LNG capabilities and expertise. It cites its experience with existing LNG-powered ferries, escort dual-fuel tugs for HaiSea Marine and the LNG-fuelled vessel conversion programme for TOTE Maritime at Seaspan Shipyards in Victoria, British Columbia, Canada.
Canada’s VARD Marine is supplying the design for the LNG bunker vessels, which will incorporate emerging technologies resulting in decreased emissions and underwater noise. 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. The design will allow the vessel to engage in ship-to-ship LNG transfer as well as coastal and shortsea shipping operations.
Source: https://www.rivieramm.com/news-content-hub/seaspan-orders-canadas-first-two-lng-bunker-vessels-71220
