THE ULTIMATE JONES ACT DRY CARGO CARRIER: AN INNOVATIVE LNG FUELLED CONTAINER RO-RO VESSEL

摘要

Designed by Wartsila Ship Design (WSD) for Crowley Maritime (CM) and currently contracted with, and soon under construction at Vision Technology Halter Marine shipyard (VTHM) in Pascagoula, Mississippi. This paper presents the concept design and highlights key activities and processes undertaken during the development of a Panamax, LNG fueled and high speed container RO-RO vessel, the first of which will be christened "El Coqui". This innovative craft of engineering was designed with the purpose and business growth in mind and following a specific trade pattern and operational profile. It will be capable to carry conventional 20ft, and 40ft containers, as well as the special 45ft and 53ft wide body high cube containers specific for the American market, simultaneously with a Ro-Ro capacity in excess of 350 private cars (US size). When built, these will be among the very first LNG powered, American flagged, container Ro-Ro ships operating between Jacksonville, Florida and San Juan, Puerto Rico on a weekly rotational basis.