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Crowley chartering four LNG-fuelled newbuilds from Eastern Pacific Shipping

Photo: EPS EPS + Crowley Signing_Sept 2022[95].jpg
Eastern Pacific Shipping (EPS) has ordered four LNG-powered containerships for long term charter to US owner and operator Crowley.

Crowley has awarded the contract for the long-term charter of four 1,400 teu boxships to EPS following a tender process.

The LNG-fuelled vessels will be equipped with high-pressure ME-GI engines from MAN Energy Solutions which are designed to reduce methane slippage to “negligible levels”.

Singapore-headquartered EPS is ordering the four LNG-fuelled containerships from Hyundai Mipo Dockyard in South Korea with delivery expected in 2025.

“We are excited to develop our US market footprint through these long-term time charters with such a reputable partner,” said EPS CEO Cyril Ducau.

“Once delivered, these vessels will be IMO 2030 compliant five years ahead of schedule and will play an important role as the world and industry transition to cleaner energy sources.”

EPS already has considerable experience with owning and operating LNG dual vessels and recently completed the 50th LNG bunkering for ships in its fleet. The shipowner has dual fuel containerships, dry bulk, and tankers as part of a fleet over 200 vessels.

The 1,400 teu vessels will be equipped with 300 reefer plugs and Crowley plans to deploy the newbuildings on trades between the US and Nicaragua, Honduras, Guatemala, and El Salvador.

“These four ships will play a significant part in driving Crowley’s strategic growth in our supply chain services for the US, Central America and Caribbean. In addition, the vessels use of LNG and emissions technology will advance the company’s commitment to innovation and decarbonization in the shipping industry as part of our sustainability strategy,” said Tom Crowley, Crowley chairman and CEO.

“As more companies diversify their supply chains using nearshoring and the resources of Central America, Crowley will enhance our end-to-end logistics services to be partners in their growth.”