ABS to Class First NA West Coast LNG Bunker Barge

The first liquefied natural gas (LNG) bunker barge on North America’s west coast, which is expected to serve shipping from 2023, is to be built to ABS class.

Cryopeak LNG Solutions Corporation and Island Tug & Barge Ltd. (ITB) have developed a design for a 4,000 cubic meter capacity articulated tug and barge (ATB). The design utilizes one of ITB’s tugs to deliver LNG as a fuel to shipping companies calling to ports on the West Coast.

Cryopeak CEO Calum McClure recently told MarineLink that design work is underway in Vancouver, B.C. as the partners finalize a shipyard selection. "We expect to start the barge construction in early 2021," he said.

"The marine industry is seeking solutions to enable the use of LNG as part of its journey to reduce emissions and lower fuel costs. This project delivers that, and will enable vessels to adopt LNG as a cleaner alternative fuel," McClure said.

Adrian Samuel, President of ITB, said, "Through our partnership with ABS and Cryopeak, we look forward to leveraging this success and to provide efficient and reliable solutions to the LNG bunker market in Western Canada and the U.S. Pacific Northwest. ITB’s ATB design will meet the highest standards for maneuverability and crew safety, and we’re confident the vessel will be well received when fully operational."