Crowley’s new LNG-powered containership, Quetzal, has embarked on its inaugural commercial voyage, ushering in a new era of faster and more frequent ocean shipping for the U.S., Central America, and the Dominican Republic. The vessel is part of the Avance Class ships, designed to carry up to 1,400 20-foot container equivalent units (TEUs) using lower-emissions LNG as fuel. These ships are equipped to handle various container sizes, including 300 refrigerated container unit plugs.
The Avance Class ships are ideal for transporting perishable goods, food, pharmaceuticals, retail products, apparel, breakbulk cargo, and other essential items. Quetzal commenced its service on April 11-12 at the Port of Santo Tomás, Guatemala. The vessels, built by Hyundai Mipo Dockyard of Korea, are expected to enter service in 2025 under long-term charters to Crowley.
Tom Crowley, Chairman and CEO, stated that Quetzal and the Avance Class ships exemplify Crowley’s commitment to innovation and leadership in international shipping in the Caribbean Basin. These vessels offer frequent service and enhanced capabilities to uphold Crowley’s operational standards. The Avance Class represents a strategic investment in the future of international trade, setting a new standard for environmental efficiency.
Furthermore, Crowley’s use of LNG in maritime energy transition is demonstrated through the Avance Class ships’ high-pressure ME-GI engines by MAN Energy Solutions. These engines reduce methane emissions and make the vessels environmentally efficient. LNG significantly decreases vessel greenhouse gas emissions and eliminates particulate matter compared to traditional diesel fuel.
Crowley, a U.S.-owned maritime, energy, and logistics company, has been in operation for over 130 years, providing innovative transportation services globally. The company serves 36 nations and island territories and employs a significant number of U.S. mariners. Discover more information by visiting the official website of Crowley at www.crowley.com.
Contact Information:
– David DeCamp, Director of Corporate Communications: (904) 727-4263, [email protected]
– Torey Vogel, Senior Specialist of Corporate Communications: (904) 726-4536, [email protected]
SOURCE: Crowley
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