Growing LNG fleet drives new opportunities at Port of Nanaimo

The Port of Nanaimo is strengthening its role in supplying liquefied natural gas as more vessels adopt hybrid propulsion systems. In response to this broader shift, Seaspan Marine has formed Seaspan Energy Ltd., which operates three ships that provide ship-to-ship LNG bunkering to vessels in Nanaimo, Vancouver, and Long Beach (California).

Hybrid vessels now make up an increasing share of traffic on the West Coast, and many of these ships rely on LNG as a lower-emission fuel that supports national climate goals. Hybrid vessels are described as cleaner and safer in operation, reflecting broader advances in propulsion technology over the past two decades.

The port’s LNG capabilities have expanded accordingly, making bunkering a growing component of Nanaimo’s marine services alongside cargo handling and anchorage operations.

Seaspan’s bunkering vessels regularly anchor in Nanaimo when they are not performing operations elsewhere, highlighting the port’s importance within the regional LNG supply chain. Their presence also supports the port authority’s revenue, as fuel stops are linked to other services such as water supply, provisioning, and waste management.

LNG continues to offer safety and environmental advantages, as it evaporates in the event of a spill. It has also long been used locally by B.C. Ferries and Seaspan ferries, reinforcing its established place in coastal operations.