Q-LNG ATB completes sea trials

Innovative vessel is the first Articulated Tug and Barge to attain a DPS-1+ notation from ABS.

Quality Liquefied Natural Gas Transport (Q-LNG) reports that its LNG bunkering ATB built at Halter Marine has now successfully completed sea trials and is headed Elba Island, Ga., to load gas and undertake gas trials.

The innovative vessel is the first Articulated Tug and Barge to attain a DPS-1+ notation from the American Bureau of Shipping (ABS).

“We believe this vessel’s DPS-1+ notation raises the bar in safety, efficiency, and compatibility in the LNG bunkering market,” said Shane Guidry, principle owner of Q-LNG, “this is another moment in maritime history we are proud to be part of.”

DPS-1+ notation requires certain equipment, software, simulations, and studies be conducted to show the vessel’s capability to hold in a location utilizing reference points for vessel positioning. The notation allows the vessel to operate without additional support in close proximity of other vessels. The ATB’s DPS-1+ notation adds flexibility to deliver LNG fuel in open water and other conditions not accessible to vessels without this notation.

On successful completion of gas proving trials the vessel will be delivered to Shell Trading (US) Company on a long term time charter.