Bureau Veritas has awarded an approval in principle (AiP) to SeaspanLNG for the design of a 7,600-m3 LNG bunker vessel that would support Seaspan Ferries’ fleet of dual-fuel hybrid-electric ferries
Designed by Seaspan Ferries’ partner Vard Marine for ship-to-ship transfer of LNG and refuelling operations, the LNG bunker vessel (LNGBV) will have a length of 112.8 m, beam of 18.6 m and depth of 5 m, with two azimuthing thrusters and two bow thrusters for exceptional manoeuvring and station-keeping capabilities. In developing the ‘future-proof’ LNGBV design, Seaspan said there was an emphasis placed on the ability to incorporate emerging technologies, increase electric storage system capacity, and further operational emissions and greenhouse gas reductions while maintaining operability and flexibility.
The Vard 9 511 LNG bunker vessel design continues a successful partnership between Seaspan Ferries and Vard, which developed the Canadian owner’s dual-fuel hybrid-electric ferries in 2014 and included a new method of bunkering the vessels. This close and successful working relationship led to the creation of a new line of Vard 9-series LNG bunker vessels, focused on safe, efficient and economical refuelling of multiple ship types as well as an ability to transfer to and from a wide range of terminals.
“Seaspan is proud to collaborate and partner with Vard and Bureau Veritas for the AiP of this advanced and highly manoeuvrable 7,600-m3 LNG bunker vessel which is designed specifically for our business areas,” said Seaspan Ferries director of fleet engineering and vessel development Harly Penner.
“Seaspan is committed to bringing clean LNG bunkers to the west coast of North America through our LNG bunkering business, to assist shipowners in meeting their IMO2030 targets,” said Seaspan Ferries vice president Gord Miller.
“With this AiP, the Vard 9 511 is the ideal solution to solve the gap in LNG bunkering infrastructure in the Asia Pacific Gateway,” said Vard Marine chief executive Wade Carson.
“This comprehensive AiP now enables a detailed design to be developed addressing classification, statutory and operational requirements,” said Bureau Veritas regional chief executive for North America Tim Protheroe.
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