Although small compared to ocean-going cargo vessels, the passenger ship sector is taking up the mantle of finding practical and economical substitutes for HFO/diesel. Being the most 'visible' segment of shipping to the general public it is especially important for them to be environmentally friendly to ensure future custom as well as meet stringent emissions regulations. Chief among the alternative fuel options is LNG and there are a number of ferry operators turning to this fuel both for newbuilding and retrofit. Washington State Ferries (WSF) plans to convert its six 100m-long Issaquah class ferries to LNG, and currently the waterway suitability assessment is in the hands of the US Coast Guard, with the final decision on approval expected bv this summer.
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