Seaspan Shipyards (Seaspan) has been awarded the construction contract to build one of the Canadian Coast Guard’s (CCG) new heavy polar icebreakers.
The polar icebreaker will be built entirely in Canada at Seaspan’s Vancouver Shipyards, located in North Vancouver, British Columbia. With the contract now in place, Seaspan is ready to cut steel on this ship and begin full-rate construction on Canada’s newest vessel under the National Shipbuilding Strategy (NSS).
Construction of this ship will support the work of a team of more than 1,000 local shipbuilders and a broad Canadian supply chain of over 800 Canadian companies contributing massive strategic value, innovation and economic benefits to Canada.
Building this complex and densely-outfitted multi-mission ship will mark the first time a polar icebreaker has been built in Canada in more than 60 years and will have more advanced capabilities than the CCG’s current heavy icebreakers.
Once delivered, this made-in-Canada heavy polar icebreaker will be one of the most advanced and capable icebreakers in the entire world. It will be one of only a handful of Polar Class 2 ships in operation and will allow for the CCG to operate self-sufficiently year-round in the high-Arctic, down to temperatures at -50°C.
The new polar icebreaker will be the seventh vessel designed and built by Seaspan under the NSS. It will also be the fifth Polar Class vessel to be built for the CCG, and one of up to 21 icebreaking vessels overall that Seaspan is constructing.
Functional design of the polar icebreaker was completed in 2024 by Seaspan, prior to the start of construction. For this ship, Seaspan worked extensively to build out the largest marine design and engineering team in Canada, which includes Seaspan employees and Canadian partners, while simultaneously working alongside established Finnish companies who have extensive experience in designing Arctic-going vessels.
Seaspan is the only Canadian shipyard with the expertise, facilities, and domestic supply-chain to build polar icebreakers in Canada. Official start of construction for this new heavy polar icebreaker is scheduled for April 2025.
QUOTES
“Today’s contract signing is the next step in our journey of fulfilling the vision of the National Shipbuilding Strategy, which is to build ships for Canada, in Canada, by Canadians. The NSS is demonstrating that a made-in-Canada approach is not only possible, but also imperative to our security and sovereignty. We look forward to starting construction on this ship next month, and to building more Polar Class vessels for Canada and our Ice Pact partners.”- John McCarthy, CEO, Seaspan Shipyards
“The contract awarded to Seaspan’s Vancouver Shipyards for the build of a new polar icebreaker is a significant step forward for Canada’s economic and natural resource sectors. This advanced vessel will not only ensure safe and efficient navigation in our polar regions but also support the sustainable development of our natural resources. By enhancing our icebreaking capabilities, we are opening new opportunities for economic growth, scientific research and environmental stewardship. This project exemplifies our commitment to leveraging cutting-edge technology to benefit our economy and protect our unique polar environments for future generations.”- The Hon. Jonathan Wilkinson, Minister of Energy and Natural Resources and MP for North Vancouver
“Today marks a significant milestone in our commitment to enhancing our nation’s maritime capabilities. The contract awarded to Seaspan’s Vancouver Shipyards for the build of a new polar icebreaker underscores our dedication to ensuring safe and efficient navigation in Arctic regions. This state-of-the-art vessel will not only strengthen our icebreaking fleet, but will also support critical scientific research and environmental protection efforts, and ensure national security in the Arctic. We are proud to take this step forward in strengthening our maritime infrastructure for safeguarding Canada’s sovereignty in the Arctic.”- The Hon. Jean-Yves Duclos, Minister of Public Services and Procurement and Quebec Lieutenant
“The National Shipbuilding Strategy is providing the Canadian Coast Guard with its fleet of the future. The polar icebreaker to be built by Vancouver Shipyards will be able to operate in the Arctic year-round, further bolstering our ability to deliver crucial services to Northern communities and support Canadian sovereignty in the Arctic.”- The Honourable Diane Lebouthillier, Minister of Fisheries, Oceans and the Canadian Coast Guard
“Our partnership with Seaspan to construct a polar icebreaker underscores our government’s steadfast commitment to ensuring the Canadian Coast Guard can continue to protect Canada’s sovereignty and interests, while also revitalizing Canada’s shipbuilding industry, creating high-paying jobs and maximizing economic benefits across the country.”- The Honourable François-Philippe Champagne, Minister of Innovation, Science and Industry
Press Release
the title: “The Benefits of Mindful Eating for Improved Health”
In today’s fast-paced world, it’s easy to fall into the trap of mindless eating. We often find ourselves rushing through meals, eating on the go, or mindlessly snacking in front of the TV. However, this type of eating can have negative consequences on our health and well-being.
One way to combat mindless eating is by practicing mindful eating. Mindful eating is the practice of paying full attention to the experience of eating and drinking, both inside and outside the body. It involves being present in the moment, savoring each bite, and listening to your body’s hunger and fullness cues.
There are numerous benefits to practicing mindful eating. One of the main benefits is improved digestion. When we eat mindfully, we are more aware of what we are putting into our bodies and can better listen to our body’s signals of hunger and fullness. This can help prevent overeating and promote better digestion.
Mindful eating can also help with weight management. By being more in tune with our hunger and fullness cues, we are less likely to overeat or indulge in unhealthy foods. This can lead to weight loss or maintenance over time.
Additionally, mindful eating can improve our relationship with food. By slowing down and savoring each bite, we can develop a greater appreciation for the food we are eating. This can lead to a more positive relationship with food and a decrease in emotional eating habits.
Overall, practicing mindful eating can lead to improved health and well-being. By being present in the moment and listening to our body’s cues, we can make healthier food choices, prevent overeating, and develop a more positive relationship with food. So the next time you sit down to eat, try to be more mindful and see the positive impact it can have on your health.