Crowley has launched its new LNG-powered containership Quetzal on its inaugural commercial voyage, marking a major milestone in the company’s commitment to sustainable, high-efficiency maritime transport. With a capacity of 1,400 TEUs, Quetzal is the first in Crowley’s new Avance Class of vessels that will serve routes between the U.S., Central America, and the Dominican Republic.
A New Standard in Clean and Reliable Cargo Transport
Designed to support diverse cargo needs, Quetzal includes 300 refrigerated container plugs, making it ideal for the rapid transport of perishable goods such as food and pharmaceuticals, alongside retail, apparel, and breakbulk cargo. The vessel officially began operations with a call at the Port of Santo Tomás, Guatemala, between April 11–12.
Avance Class: Innovation at Sea
Pronounced “ah-bahn-seh” (Spanish for “advance”), the Avance Class ships are being built by Hyundai Mipo Dockyard in South Korea and are owned by Eastern Pacific Shipping, operating under long-term charters to Crowley. The three sister ships are expected to enter service throughout 2025.
These ships are equipped with high-pressure ME-GI engines from MAN Energy Solutions, drastically reducing methane slip and making the class among the most environmentally efficient in the world.
Environmental Commitment with LNG Technology
The shift to liquefied natural gas (LNG) reflects Crowley’s growing leadership in maritime sustainability. Compared to traditional diesel fuels, LNG significantly reduces greenhouse gas emissions, including sulfur oxide, nitrogen oxide, and carbon dioxide, while eliminating particulate matter. These ships are tailored to meet the environmental demands of the modern shipping era.
The launch of Quetzal is part of Crowley’s long-term strategy to strengthen its presence in the Caribbean Basin while aligning with global decarbonization goals. The Avance Class vessels promise greater cargo capacity, faster delivery times, and cleaner operations, all designed to meet the evolving needs of customers and the environment alike.
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Source: CROWLEY
