Delivery of LNG-Powered Ferry Delayed

by Ship & Bunker News Team
Monday April 22, 2013

Delivery of the first of two liquefied natural gas (LNG)-powered cruise ferries that have been called the "most environmentally friendly" ships of their kind has been delayed, according to Bergen Group Fosen (Bergen Group), which is building the ships.

The Norway-based shipbuilder said installation and testing of engines and other technical equipment is taking longer than expected, causing the ship's new owner, Fjord Line, to delay its first sailing from May 29 to June 21.

Delivery of the MS Stavangerfjord, which is using engines supplied by Rolls-Royce, had originally been scheduled for this month.

"We have booked the most technically advanced equipment available, and just have to take into account that the yard needs more time to get this in place and tested", said Fjord Line's CEO Ingvald Fardal.

Bergen Group said the adjustment in delivery date will cause it additional expenses, which will be accounted for in its Q1 2013 interim report.

When it announced plans for the ships, Fjord line said the use of engines powered only by LNG goes "one step further" than competitors who are using dual-fuel engines capable of running on either LNG or fuel oil.

The company said LNG bunkers will be more cost-effective and help it meet new emissions regulations taking effect in 2015.

Ship & Bunker News Team
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