Port of Vancouver grants first LNG bunkering accreditation to Seaspan Energy

The Vancouver Fraser Port Authority has issued its first accreditation for liquefied natural gas (LNG) bunkering, authorizing North Vancouver’s Seaspan Energy to refuel select ships calling at the Port of Vancouver.

The accreditation follows a multi-year evaluation process that adhered to international safety best practices, including recommended guidelines from the Society for Gas as a Marine Fuel (SGMF).

As part of the assessment, the port authority:

• Evaluated operational procedures for LNG bunkering to ensure safety, efficiency, and regulatory compliance;
• Approved designated bunkering locations after assessing safety and potential impacts on port operations;
• Conducted risk assessments to identify hazards, mitigation measures, and emergency response plans; and
• Reviewed Seaspan Energy’s collaboration with key partners such as local fire departments, the Canadian Coast Guard, and Environment and Climate Change Canada.

This accreditation makes LNG the first approved alternative fuel for marine bunkering at the Port of Vancouver. It supports the international shipping industry’s shift from traditional heavy marine fuels to cleaner options, aligning with global emissions reduction goals.

The port already handles LNG and other fuels daily, with dual-fuel LNG vessels such as tankers, vehicle carriers and container and cruise ships regularly visiting its terminals.

Seaspan Energy plans to operate three 112-metre-long LNG bunkering vessels named after iconic West Coast mountains: the Seaspan Garibaldi, Seaspan Lions and Seaspan Baker.

With its accreditation, Seaspan Energy can now safely refuel LNG-powered vessels in port, enhancing efficiency and sustainability at Canada’s largest port. Under the port authority’s LNG accreditation program, Seaspan must renew its license annually to ensure continued adherence to the highest safety standards.

Ships using alternative fuels like LNG can also benefit from the port authority’s EcoAction incentive program, which offers up to 75 per cent off harbour dues for voluntary investments in cleaner fuels, technology or environmental initiatives.