Thursday, April 9, 2015

Christening Scheduled for LNG-Powered Containership

By Mark Edward Nero

A special event to christen and launch the world’s first LNG-powered containership built by General Dynamics NASSCO for Totem Ocean Trailer Express is scheduled Saturday, April 18 in San Diego.
The ceremony will also commemorate NASSCO’s 100th ship launch.

The ship’s sponsor, Mrs. Sophie Sacco – wife of Michael Sacco, president of the Seafarers International Union of North America, AFL-CIO – will christen the ship with a traditional champagne bottle break over the ship’s hull. A fireworks display is planned to commence immediately upon the christening and launch of the ship.

The name of the vessel is expected to be revealed during the ceremony.

The 764-foot long Marlin-class containership, which is part of a two-ship contract signed with TOTE in 2012, is expected to be among the largest dry cargo ships of any kind in the world powered by liquefied natural gas when completed.

Operating on LNG is expected to significantly decrease the vessel’s emissions while increasing fuel efficiency as compared to conventionally-powered ships. Both LNG-powered ships will also include a ballast water treatment system, making them among the greenest ships of their size anywhere in the world.

Upon delivery in late-2015, the Jones Act-qualified ships are planned to operate between Jacksonville, Florida and San Juan, Puerto Rico.

The christening and launch event is planned for 8 pm to 9 pm April 18 at General Dynamics NASSCO, 2798 E. Harbor Drive, San Diego, CA 92113. The gate opens for visitors at 7 pm.
Those seeking further information on the event may email staci.ignell@nassco.com.