Canada’s SeaspanLNG, part of Seaspan, said it has secured approval in principle from classification society Bureau Veritas for the design of a 7,600-cbm LNG bunkering vessel.
Designed by Seaspan Ferries’ partner Vard Marine, the bunkering vessel will provide ship-to-ship LNG transfer as well as coastal/short sea shipping operations, according to Seaspan.
Vard developed in 2014 new dual-fuel hybrid electric vessels for Seaspan Ferries and included a new method of bunkering the ships.
This relationship led to the creation of a new line of Vard 9 series LNG bunker vessels, focused on “safe, efficient and economical refueling” of multiple ship types as well as an ability to transfer to and from a wide range of terminals, Seaspan said.
The vessel will have 112.8 meters in length with a design speed of 13 knots. It features two azimuthing thrusters but also two bow thrusters for “exceptional maneuvering and station-keeping capabilities.”
The approval in principle validates the LNG bunker vessel design and confirms that the proposed concepts comply with the intent of the most applicable rules, guides, required industry codes and standards.
SeaspanLNG will now advance efforts for vessel construction and engage with major stakeholders in current and emerging markets, including port authorities and flag states, the statement said.