World's First LNG-Powered Containership Launches for TOTE

General Dynamics NASSCO has launched the world’s first LNG-powered containership at a ceremony at the company’s shipyard in San Diego. The ship’s name, Isla Bella, was unveiled during the ceremony. U.S.

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 any kind in the world powered by LNG. This ship technology will dramatically decrease emissions while increasing fuel efficiency as compared to conventionally powered ships. The ships will also include a ballast water treatment system, making them the greenest ships of their size.

Upon delivery in late 2015, the Jones Act-qualified ships will operate between Jacksonville, Florida, and San Juan, Puerto Rico.

The christening and launch ceremony also commemorated NASSCO’s 100^th ship launch. NASSCO is the only major shipyard on the West Coast of the U.S. conducting new construction and repair.