Dual-fuel/LNG asphalt tanker delivered

"The addition of the Damia Desgagnés to the Desgagnés fleet is the result of tremendous work, innovations and constant collaboration with the shipyard, and is the source of great pride," said Mr. Louis-Marie Beaulieu, Chairman of the Board and Chief Executive Officer of Desgagnés, who added, "The Damia Desgagnés tangibly demonstrates all of Desgagnés's vision and leadership with regards to sustainable development as well as its commitment to its clientele in order to offer a first-class, safe and environmentally-friendly marine transportation service for petroleum products". Mr. Beaulieu wished to further express his personal pride in this achievement by bestowing the name Damia Desgagnés to this new vessel, in honour of his younger brother, Mr. Damien Beaulieu, who passed away prematurely in 2015.

The Damia Desgagnés is the first dual-fuel powered Canadian-flagged tanker and the first-ever asphalt carrier of this type. Double-hulled, she is equipped with a Wärtsila 5RT-flex 50DF engine developing a power output of 5450 kW, and her most notable characteristic is that with simple commands, she can be powered by any of three types of fuel, namely heavy fuel oil, marine diesel oil or liquefied natural gas (LNG), which has undeniable advantages in terms of sustainable development by drastically reducing greenhouse gas emissions, amongst others.

LNG refuelling distribution networks for vessels without specific service points and trading various routes remain a major challenge, but they are under development in collaboration with different partners such as Gaz Métro and the ports of Quebec and Montreal. Desgagnés will continue working with the various suppliers to improve and adapt their services to the needs of the marine industry. "LNG has a bright future in maritime transportation and Desgagnés will actively contribute to broadening its use" concludes Mr. Beaulieu.

The M/T Damia Desgagnés is scheduled to weigh anchor around 10 April. She will most likely make a first delivery in Europe before heading to North America, where she should arrive mid-May, all subject to the cargo that she will carry.