Pasha Hawaii Orders LNG-Powered Containerships at Keppel

Honolulu-based Pasha Hawaii has selected Keppel AmFELS in Brownsville, TX for the construction of two new LNG-fueled containerships to operate in the Jones Act market.

The order, which is still being finalized, includes options for two additional vessels.

The newbuild vessels will carry 2,525 TEUs, including a fully laden capacity of 500 45-foot containers, 400 refrigerated containers, and 300 40-foot dry containers, with a sailing speed of 23.0 knots.

Delivery of the vessels is planned for Q1 and Q3 of 2020, respectively.

In November 2016, Pasha announced it had shortlisted two shipyards to build the vessels but did not disclose which yards they had selected. 

For Keppel, the order marks its first in the Jones Act shipbuilding market. Keppel AmFELS is a subsidiary of Singapore’s 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.”

The new vessels will operate on 100% LNG fuel from day one in service, dramatically reducing environmental impact and increasing fuel efficiency. 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, according to Pasha Hawaii.

When compared to conventional fuels, LNG is a much cleaner alternative fuel for shipping and offers significant environmental benefits, including the reduction of up to 95 percent sulphur oxides, nearly 100 percent particulate matter, up to 90 percent nitrogen oxides, and up to 25 percent carbon dioxide emissions from engine exhaust emissions.

“As with the construction of our Jean Anne and Marjorie C, we look forward to working with an extremely qualified shipyard, based in the United States,” added Pasha, IV. “Pasha Hawaii is a firm believer in the Jones Act, and is proud to support our shipyards and the highly skilled workers who make valuable contributions to this important industry on a daily basis.”

Pasha Hawaii is a wholly owned subsidiary of the family-owned global logistics and transportation company, The Pasha Group, one of the nation’s leading Jones Act shipping and integrated logistics companies.

Pasha expanded its presence in Hawaii in November 2014 with the purchase of Horizon Lines’ Hawaii division for $141.5 million. The deal included all of Horizon Lines’ trade-lane business and four Jones Act containerships.