Port of Nanaimo expands LNG bunkering operations

The Chamber of Shipping has highlighted the rapid scaling-up of LNG bunkering activity at the Port of Nanaimo, driven by expanding operations from Seaspan Marine as the shipping sector moves towards lower-emission fuel solutions.

Through its recently established subsidiary, Seaspan Energy Ltd., the company now deploys three purpose-built LNG bunkering vessels — Seaspan Lions, Seaspan Garibaldi and Seaspan Baker—to deliver ship-to-ship LNG fuelling services across Nanaimo, Vancouver and Long Beach.

Nanaimo has emerged as a strategic base for these services, supporting a growing number of hybrid and dual-fuel vessels operating along the West Coast, reported the Chamber of Shipping.

This expansion in LNG bunkering is creating additional revenue opportunities for the port, while contributing to Canada’s net-zero ambitions and helping to lower emissions from marine transport.

The Chamber of Shipping further reported that port representatives note that LNG bunkering offers a cleaner and safer alternative to conventional marine fuels and complies with the International Maritime Organization (IMO)’s regulations, reinforcing Nanaimo’s role in advancing regional maritime decarbonisation.

Earlier this week, the Port of Nanaimo announced the appointment of Captain Edward S. Dahlgren, CMMC, MNI as Vice President of Marine Operations and Harbour Master.