Seaspan Energy Conducts Canada’s First LNG Bunkering Operation in Vancouver

Seaspan Energy, a prominent shipowner based in Canada, recently made headlines by successfully completing what is being hailed as the country’s ‘first’ ship-to-ship (STS) liquefied natural gas (LNG) bunkering operation for a container vessel at the Port of Vancouver.

The groundbreaking operation took place in English Bay on March 9, 2025, with the 7,600 cbm Seaspan Garibaldi, one of Seaspan Energy’s three LNG bunkering vessels, providing LNG to the CMA CGM Pointe Du Piton, a 7,900 TEU container ship owned by French shipping giant CMA CGM.

Harly Penner, President of Seaspan Energy, expressed the company’s commitment to expanding its presence in the LNG bunkering market, especially in Canada, as LNG gains popularity as a transitional fuel. Seaspan Energy’s fleet of three 112-meter long bunker ships is poised to cater to the growing demand for LNG bunkering services on North America’s West Coast.

Shri Madiwal, Vice President of Operations and Supply Chain at the Vancouver Fraser Port Authority (VFPA), emphasized the importance of ensuring safe refueling services for vessels visiting the Port of Vancouver to facilitate Canada’s trade activities.

Jonathan Wilkinson, Minister of Energy and Natural Resources and MP for North Vancouver, highlighted Canada’s efforts to enhance its resiliency and economic position amidst global energy transition regulations. He emphasized the potential of exporting LNG with ultra-low production emissions to reduce global emissions and strengthen trade ties with allied nations.

Seaspan Energy obtained the first LNG bunkering accreditation from the VFPA in November 2024, allowing the company to conduct STS bunkering for LNG-powered vessels at the Port of Vancouver. This accreditation also makes ships using alternative fuels eligible for VFPA’s EcoAction incentive, offering up to a 75% reduction in harbour dues for green fuel investments.

Seaspan Energy’s inaugural STS bunkering operation in Vancouver marks a significant milestone in Canada’s LNG bunkering landscape, following a successful operation at the Port of Long Beach in December 2024. The company’s commitment to providing eco-friendly bunkering solutions on the West Coast of North America underscores its dedication to sustainability in the maritime industry.