Americas News
Pasha Hawaii's Two LNG-Powered Boxships to Be Built at Keppel Shipyard
Pasha Hawaii Thursday announced that its two fuel efficient liquefied natural gas (LNG)-powered container ships are set to be built by Texas-based Keppel AmFELS - a subsidiary of Keppel Offshore & Marine (Keppel O&M).
"Keppel O&M's technical expertise in LNG propulsion and commitment to customer service were two very important factors in our selection decision," said George Pasha, IV, President and CEO.
"From the start, they went above and beyond and worked closely with us in customizing a vessel design that matched our requirements. Their experience in LNG vessel conversions will also prove to be very valuable as we build LNG dual-fueled vessels for the Hawaii trade."
As Ship & Bunker reported in November, Pasha Hawaii said the vessels are expected to be the first LNG dual-fuelled vessels of their kind to be employed on the Hawaii-Mainland trade route.
While Pasha Hawaii is in the process of finalising contract specifications, delivery of the first vessel is expected in 2020's Q1, while the second is slated for 2020's 3Q.
"The new vessels will operate fully on LNG from day one in service, dramatically reducing environmental impact and increasing fuel efficiency," explains Pasha Hawaii.
"Energy savings will also be achieved with a state-of-the-art engine, an optimized hull form, and an underwater propulsion system with a high-efficiency rudder and propeller."
Pasha Hawaii has previously said that its new orders will benefit from the expertise of U.S. shipyards that are "very capable" of building LNG-powered vessels that are both "best-in-class" and competitive.
