NASSCO Launch Second Ship in Series of First LNG Containerships

General Dynamics NASSCO launched the second ship in a series of the world’s first natural gas powered containerships. The christening and launch ceremony took place at the company’s shipyard in San Diego. The ship, the Perla del Caribe, was constructed by NASSCO shipbuilders and measuring the same length as two-and-a-half football fields, will carry cargo exports between U.S.-owned ports.

As part of a two-ship contract signed in December 2012 with TOTE, the 764-foot long Marlin class containerships will be the largest dry cargo ships of its kind in the world powered by LNG. This ship technology, designed by NASSCO and its partners, will decrease emissions while increasing fuel efficiency when compared to conventionally-powered ships. Upon delivery of the first vessel in late-2015, the Jones Act-qualified ships will operate between Jacksonville, Florida, and San Juan, Puerto Rico.

Video of the launch and ceremony can be found here.