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A New Chapter in Shipping: Quetzal's Maiden Voyage

Crowley Maritime Corporation has officially launched its first Avance Class containership, Quetzal, embarking on an inaugural voyage that sets the stage for a significant evolution in maritime shipping. This new vessel operates on liquefied natural gas (LNG), underscoring the company's commitment to environmental sustainability while enhancing shipping efficiency across the U.S. and Central America.

Advancing Maritime Innovation

The Quetzal is noteworthy not only for being the first of its class but also for its impressive capacity. This modern containership can accommodate up to 1,400 twenty-foot equivalent units (TEUs) and includes specialized infrastructure to handle various container sizes, including 300 refrigerated units. This feature is particularly crucial for transporting perishables as it allows Crowley to offer expedited service for essential goods like food, pharmaceuticals, apparel, and retail products.

The name 'Quetzal' pays tribute to Central American culture and enhances the identity of Crowley's operations in the region. With this launch, Crowley aims to expand its reach further into Central America and the Dominican Republic, regions critical for trade and logistics in the Caribbean Basin.

Designed for Efficiency

The Avance Class vessels, including the Quetzal, were constructed by Hyundai Mipo Dockyard in Korea and are expected to enter service throughout 2025. According to Tom Crowley, Chairman and CEO of the company, these vessels represent the next generation of Crowley’s innovation in the international shipping sector. They are specifically designed to provide frequent trips while adhering to high operational standards, enhancing the overall supply chain solutions offered by the company.

In terms of environmental efficiency, the Quetzal builds upon Crowley's commitment to LNG as a cleaner alternative in the maritime industry. With advanced ME-GI engines manufactured by MAN Energy Solutions, the emissions from these vessels are significantly reduced, showcasing a responsible approach to energy use in shipping. The utilization of LNG is known to drastically lower greenhouse gas emissions compared to traditional diesel fuels, making it a sustainable choice for maritime operations.

A Strategic Move for the Future

The launch of the Quetzal is a strategic investment in the future of international trade and shipping standards. As globalization increases, the importance of sustainability in logistics becomes paramount. Crowley’s initiative not only highlights the shift towards cleaner maritime operations but also reflects on the company's deep-rooted experience and service in the Central American region.

Crowley has been a leader in maritime shipping solutions for over 130 years, and with the addition of the Avance Class vessels, it reinforces its position as an innovator capable of adapting to the changing needs of global trade. The regularity and capability of the shipping services will not only benefit businesses but also enhance trade relationships between the U.S., Central America, and numerous island territories.

As the Quetzal sets sail, it symbolizes more than just the beginning of its commercial journey; it marks a momentous step toward optimizing maritime logistics while honoring cultural connections and environmental responsibility. Crowley’s vision aligns well with contemporary demands for sustainability, making the launch of the Quetzal a pivotal moment in maritime history.