Quality Liquefied Natural Gas Transport (Q-LNG) executed a letter of intent with VT Halter Marine for the construction of an 8,000 cubic meters LNG bunkering vessel on speculation.
This contract represents a continuation of Q-LNG’s commitment to developing LNG fueling infrastructure in North America, the company said in a statement.
Q-LNG and its minority partner, Harvey Gulf International Marine, will own and operate these assets to provide marine transportation of LNG to various ports in Florida and the Caribbean.
Commenting on the option to order the second LNG bunkering vessel, CEO, Shane Guidry , said, “With the past and recent announcements by major cruise lines to build and deliver LNG powered cruise ships to the U.S. market, Q-LNG is committed to deliver the safest, most cost-effective solution to the cruise line industry.”
Q-LNG is currently contracted with VT Halter for the construction of America’s first offshore LNG articulated tug and barge (ATB). This ATB will be constructed to meet the requirements of US Flag, ABS Class, and the International Gas Carrier Code and is designed to carry 4,000 cubic meters of LNG.
Guidry further commented, “We have entered into this letter of intent to advance the project through design verification, finalize our construction and pricing proposal, and arrange financing.”
The new project will mirror closely the current vessel under construction, by utilizing a significant amount of the detail design and engineering. The new 8,000 cubic meter design captures all lessons and efficiencies learned from the first ATB.
Thus, Q-LNG will be able to deliver the follow-on design in a shorter period of time, Guidry concluded.