North America Advances LNG Bunker Infrastructure: Seaspan Pioneers Ship-to-Ship Transfer in California

In a significant milestone for the maritime industry, Seaspan Energy has successfully conducted the first liquefied natural gas (LNG) ship-to-ship transfer on the West Coast of North America. This groundbreaking operation, which took place in the Port of Long Beach, California, marks a pivotal moment in the region’s transition towards cleaner marine fuels and enhanced sustainability in shipping.

A New Era for Pacific Trade Routes

The successful LNG bunkering operation opens up new possibilities for vessels plying Pacific trade routes. By establishing this capability in California, Seaspan has effectively created a strategic refueling point for LNG-powered ships, potentially reducing their environmental impact and operational costs.

Seaspan Garibaldi: Leading the Charge

At the heart of this achievement is the Seaspan Garibaldi, a state-of-the-art 7,600-cubic-meter LNG bunkering vessel. As the first of three planned bunkering ships in Seaspan Energy’s fleet, the Garibaldi represents a significant investment in LNG infrastructure. Its successful deployment demonstrates Seaspan’s commitment to supporting the maritime industry’s shift towards cleaner fuel alternatives.

Expanding LNG Bunkering Services

Seaspan’s initiative is not limited to Long Beach. The company has ambitious plans to extend its LNG bunkering services to Vancouver, British Columbia, creating a network of LNG refueling points along the West Coast. This expansion will provide ship operators with more options for accessing LNG fuel, potentially encouraging broader adoption of this cleaner energy source.

The Seaspan Lions: Reinforcing the Fleet

To bolster its LNG bunkering capabilities, Seaspan is preparing to introduce a second vessel, the Seaspan Lions. This addition will enhance the company’s ability to meet growing demand for LNG fuel in the region, ensuring reliable and efficient service for international shipping lines.

CMA CGM: A Key Partner in LNG Adoption

While Seaspan has not disclosed the specific containership involved in the inaugural bunkering operation, industry sources suggest it likely served a vessel from CMA CGM’s fleet. The French shipping giant has been at the forefront of LNG adoption, deploying numerous LNG-powered containerships on transpacific routes.

CMA CGM’s Commitment to Sustainability

CMA CGM’s investment in LNG-powered vessels, including its 15,000 TEU class ships, aligns perfectly with the new bunkering capabilities offered by Seaspan. This synergy between shipping lines and fuel providers is crucial for the widespread adoption of LNG as a marine fuel.

Environmental Benefits and Regulatory Compliance

The introduction of LNG bunkering services on the West Coast comes at a critical time, as the maritime industry faces increasing pressure to reduce its environmental footprint. LNG offers several advantages over traditional marine fuels:

• Significant reduction in sulfur oxide (SOx) emissions
• Lower nitrogen oxide (NOx) emissions
• Decreased particulate matter
• Reduced carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions

These environmental benefits help shipping companies comply with stringent international regulations, such as the IMO 2020 sulfur cap and upcoming carbon intensity reduction targets.

Technological Advancements in LNG Bunkering

Seaspan’s LNG bunkering vessels incorporate cutting-edge technologies to ensure safe and efficient fuel transfers. Developed in collaboration with Vard Marine Inc., these ships feature:

• Advanced emission reduction systems
• Underwater noise mitigation technology
• Flexible transfer systems compatible with various ship types

These innovations not only enhance operational efficiency but also minimize the environmental impact of bunkering operations themselves.

Future Prospects for LNG in Maritime Transport

The successful launch of LNG bunkering services in Long Beach signals a bright future for LNG as a marine fuel on the West Coast. As more shipping lines invest in LNG-powered vessels, the demand for bunkering services is expected to grow. This could lead to:

• Increased investment in LNG infrastructure at major ports
• Development of new LNG supply chains
• Creation of jobs in the LNG bunkering sector
• Acceleration of the maritime industry’s decarbonization efforts

Conclusion: A Milestone for Sustainable Shipping

Seaspan’s completion of the first LNG ship-to-ship transfer in California represents more than just a technical achievement. It’s a clear indication that North America is making significant strides in developing the necessary infrastructure to support cleaner shipping practices. As the maritime industry continues its journey towards sustainability, operations like this will play a crucial role in facilitating the transition to alternative fuels and reducing the environmental impact of global trade.