Two new LNG-battery hybrid vessels to join Seaspan Ferries fleet

Seaspan Ferries has announced that it will be adding two new LNG-battery hybrid ferries to its fleet in 2021. The vessels will be constructed by Damen Shipyards at its Mangalia Shipyard in Romania. With construction scheduled to begin in 2019, the vessels are expected to go into operation in 2021. They will join Seaspan Swift and Seaspan Reliant, the company’s first hybrid ferries, commissioned just over two years ago. Since introducing these vessels to its fleet, Seaspan Ferries says it has been able to significantly reduce greenhouse gas emissions, while maintaining a high level of performance and reliability for its drop-trailer service between its mainland terminals and Vancouver Island. “Within their first two years of service, our existing LNG hybrid vessels have operated with emission reductions of over 50% compared with conventional vessels; a large part of which is directly linked to the use of LNG fuel,” said Frank Butzelaar, CEO, Seaspan Marine Transportation. “Expanding our fleet of LNG vessels will allow us to further expand our service offering and reduce emissions at the same time. It’s the right decision for the business and for the environment.”