Historic First: Cruise Ship LNG Bunkering at Port Vancouver, BC Canada

The Port of Vancouver, BC, Canada, has achieved a significant milestone in maritime sustainability by facilitating the first-ever liquefied natural gas (LNG) bunkering of a cruise vessel. The operation was executed by Seaspan Energy’s LNG bunkering tanker, the Seaspan Garibaldi, which supplied LNG to a cruise ship set to embark on a voyage to Alaska. This marks a pivotal shift towards LNG refueling for deep-sea cruise vessels at Vancouver, positioning the port as a leader in adopting lower-emission marine operations.

LNG is the first widely available alternative fuel in the shipping industry, and its introduction at the Port of Vancouver aligns with the Vancouver Fraser Port Authority’s initiatives aimed at reducing emissions and promoting sustainable practices. The transition from traditional marine fuels, such as heavy fuel oil, to LNG supports global decarbonization goals, including the International Maritime Organization’s target for net-zero emissions by 2050.

Previously, biofuels were only available in limited quantities at the port, while LNG signifies a notable shift as a major alternative to diesel-based fuels on a larger scale. This development is expected to pave the way for future integration of next-generation fuels like ammonia. Seaspan Energy, which received LNG bunkering accreditation from the port authority in late 2023, operates a fleet of three LNG bunkering vessels along the West Coast of North America and has successfully conducted several refueling operations for container ships, car carriers, and bulk vessels.

The LNG accreditation process included a thorough safety assessment based on international best practices and specific planning tailored to the site. The successful adoption of LNG into the port’s fuel infrastructure showcases the authority’s commitment to safety and environmental stewardship, enabling secure handling of various LNG-fueled vessels.

Vancouver’s cruise industry, which has operated as a homeport for Alaska sailings for over 20 years, plays a crucial role in the port’s sustainability agenda. Cruise lines visiting Vancouver have adopted shore power and participated in voluntary programs like the ECHO Program, which focuses on mitigating the impact on marine life by reducing vessel speeds in sensitive coastal areas. In 2023, more than 90% of cruise operators participated in the ECHO Program, and over 80% of the cruise calls in 2024 are anticipated to connect to the port’s hydro-powered shore grid. Since 2009, the usage of shore power has led to the elimination of over 45,000 tons of greenhouse gas emissions from cruise activities associated with the port.

The Vancouver port has received recognition for its environmental efforts, including the Blue Circle Awards, which honored five cruise lines last year for bettering their ecological performance. With 301 cruise calls anticipated in 2025, each estimated to contribute around CA$3 million to the local economy, Vancouver continues to be a vital gateway for voyages to Alaska and a growing center for sustainable maritime operations.

For more details on the Port of Vancouver, you can visit their Port details or read more about LNG bunkering.

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