NASSCO gases up second LNG fueled box ship

DECEMBER 18, 2015 — General Dynamics NASSCO reports that on December 11 itsuccessfully completed bunkering of liquefied natural gas (LNG) for TOTE Maritime’s Perla Del Caribe, the world’s second containership to be fueled by LNG.

Bunkering services were provided by the California-based company Clean Energy as well as Baker Hughes and Envent during a 48-hour period at the NASSCO shipyard in San Diego.

Representatives from the shipbuilder worked collaboratively with several regulatory agencies to prepare for the event, including the U.S. Coast Guard, the American Bureau of Shipping, the San Diego Fire Department, and the Air Pollution Control District.

The Perla Del Caribe received 210,000 gallons of LNG, nearly double the amount bunkered for its sister ship, the Isla Bella, the world’s first LNG-powered containership, delivered by NASSCO in October of this year.

“This represents another milestone amongst many in the advancement of green, environmentally-friendly ship technology. This effort in particular demonstrates successful collaboration between industry and several regulatory entities, laying the groundwork for comparable green projects in the future,” said Parker Larson, director of commercial programs at General Dynamics NASSCO.

“As Captain of the Port of San Diego, I am grateful for the exceptional preparation and cooperation involved with this LNG bunkering operation,” said Captain Jonathan S. Spaner. “Indeed, these LNG-powered containerships are unique in our nation and the world. I commend the team at NASSCO and all interagency partners for their efforts to ensure a safe, efficient, and successful bunkering evolution.”