#United States #Jacksonville #Crowley #Copan #LNG-powered

Crowley Expands Shipping Operations in Central America and the Caribbean

Crowley's innovative approach to maritime logistics takes a significant leap forward with the launch of Copán, the second vessel in its Avance Class fleet powered by liquefied natural gas (LNG). This vessel has commenced its maiden commercial operations from the Port of Jacksonville, Florida, marking an exciting new chapter in the company’s efforts to enhance shipping capabilities across the Caribbean Basin and Central America.

Named after one of the most prominent archaeological sites of the Mayan civilization in Honduras, Copán stands as a testament to both cultural heritage and modern technological advancement. The ship is engineered specifically for rapid and frequent delivery of cargo while adhering to eco-friendly practices, utilizing LNG as its primary fuel source. This method not only mitigates emissions but also positions Crowley as a leader in the ongoing transition to greener energy solutions in the maritime industry.

Enhanced Transport Solutions

The capabilities of Avance Class vessels are tailored for the swift transportation of diverse cargo types, including perishables such as food and pharmaceuticals. With a capacity of 1,400 twenty-foot equivalent units (TEU) and the ability to accommodate 300 refrigerated containers, Copán is well equipped to handle the varying demands of international shipping. This enhancement significantly improves service frequency and shipping speed between the U.S., Central America, and the Dominican Republic.

Brett Bennett, Senior Vice President and General Manager of Crowley Logistics, highlighted the importance of these advancements: “Copán and its sister ships represent our commitment to innovating and enhancing our ocean carrier services to meet the critical needs of our customers in the region.” This sentiment underscores Crowley’s dedication to providing robust supply chain solutions while preserving the Central American cultural legacy embodied by the vessel's name.

A Rich Cultural Legacy

The name Copán not only honors the ancient Mayan city known for its remarkable architecture and historical importance but also reflects Crowley's aim to integrate the rich cultural narratives of the regions it serves into its modern operations. The connection to such a significant historical site allows for a dual appreciation of both heritage and innovation, reinforcing the company's ethos of blending tradition with modern efficacy.

The Avance Class vessels, including Copán and its sister ship Quetzal, build upon Crowley's long-standing reputation for reliable maritime services that stretch over 130 years. Since initiating service with the first ship in the fleet, the company anticipates further integration of additional vessels throughout the year, enhancing capacity and service offerings even more.

Commitment to Sustainability

One of the standout features of Copán and the Avance Class fleet is their commitment to sustainability. By utilizing LNG, Crowley is not only reducing greenhouse gas emissions but also setting a new standard for environmental responsibility in shipping operations. This eco-conscious shift demonstrates their responsiveness to industry demands for cleaner and more sustainable transportation methods.

The ongoing investment in this sector showcases the company’s role as a pivotal player in the maritime industry, emphasizing the significance of environmentally friendly practices without compromising on service quality or operational efficiency.

As Crowley continues to expand its fleet and enhance its operational capabilities, the introduction of Copán marks a promising future for sustainable shipping across Central America and the Caribbean, ensuring that the region remains connected to global trade networks while preserving its rich cultural heritage.

For more information about Crowley and its services, visit Crowley’s official website.