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Crowley's Innovative Leap into Ocean Shipping

Crowley Maritime Corporation has officially charted a new course in ocean freight with the recent launch of its LNG-powered containership, Quetzal. The vessel's maiden commercial voyage marks the beginning of a groundbreaking era for Crowley, paving the way for enhanced shipping efficiency between the U.S., Central America, and the Dominican Republic.

The Avance Class: A New Standard in Shipping

With a remarkable capacity to carry up to 1,400 twenty-foot equivalent units (TEUs), Quetzal is part of the newly developed Avance Class series, which includes three more sister ships slated to join the fleet. Designed with versatility in mind, these vessels can accommodate a range of container sizes, featuring 300 plugs specifically for refrigerated containers, thereby making them perfect for transporting perishable goods such as food and pharmaceuticals.

The Avance Class vessels, which have their name drawing inspiration from the Spanish term for 'advance', are focused on providing rapid and frequent shipping solutions, particularly for essential retail products, apparel, and breakbulk cargo.

A Commitment to the Environment

In an effort to lead the transition towards greener maritime practices, Crowley is utilizing liquefied natural gas (LNG) as fuel for the Quetzal and its sister ships. LNG is recognized for its lower emissions compared to traditional diesel, dramatically reducing harmful gases such as sulfur oxides, carbon dioxide, and nitrogen oxides.

Equipped with state-of-the-art high-pressure ME-GI engines by MAN Energy Solutions, the Avance Class ships feature technology that minimizes methane slippage to nearly nonexistent levels, solidifying their position as some of the most environmentally efficient vessels in operation today.

Tom Crowley, the Chairman and CEO of Crowley, stated, “Quetzal and the Avance Class ships exemplify the next phase of Crowley’s innovation and leadership in supply chain solutions for international shipping in the Caribbean Basin. The introduction of these vessels not only enhances our ability to serve our clients better but also reaffirms our commitment to environmental stewardship.”

Origin and Significance

The vessel initiated its services on April 11-12, at the Port of Santo Tomás, Guatemala. Each Avance Class ship is being built by Hyundai Mipo Dockyard in South Korea, with all expected to be fully operational by the end of 2025, operating under long-term charters to Crowley.

Crowley’s extensive experience and investment in Central America and the Dominican Republic showcase their dedication to developing sustainable shipping practices. By enabling faster delivery times and expanded operational capabilities, Quetzal is set to redefine standards in international maritime logistics.

Crowley, a privately owned company operating in the maritime, logistics, and energy sectors for more than 130 years, has made significant strides in enhancing connectivity across 36 nations and island territories. The introduction of the Avance Class vessels represents a strategic investment in the future of international trade, setting new benchmarks for environmental efficiency and operational excellence.

In conclusion, as Crowley embarks on this new journey with the Quetzal, it not only marks a pivotal moment in the company's history but also a vital advancement in the quest for sustainable ocean shipping solutions. With its blend of capacity, environmental consideration, and operational efficiency, the Quetzal stands as a beacon of progress for the industry.