Maritime

Desgagnés launches world’s first polar class, dual fuel product/chemical tanker

Quebec City-based Groupe Desgagnés has christened and launched in Montreal the M/T Mia Desgagnés, the world's first polar-class dual-fuel oil/chemical tanker. It entailed an investment of C$50 million, including some C$9 million for the dual fuel/LNG equipment. Desgagnés operates a fleet of some 21 vessels deployed on North American, Arctic and overseas trades.

"Desgagnés is very proud to have achieved another world first in only a few short months," declared its President and CEO Louis-Marie Beaulieu, recalling that last May, Desgagnés christened the M/T Damia Desgagnés, the very first dual-fuel asphalt-bitumen-chemical tanker. 

"The challenges and achievements don't stop at these world firsts," said Beaulieu since the Desgagnés Team had to meet a number of major challenges, including integrating the many innovations and new technologies on these vessels into its operations, developing a maritime LNG distribution network, almost inexistent up to that point, training a new class of qualified and certified sailors, and creating brand new training and certification programs.

"It is thanks to the exceptional contribution and collaboration of various business partners, including Energir, the Montreal Port Authority, and Transport Canada, that allowed us to meet the challenges of this innovative project," noted Beaulieu on April 17.

MIA Desgagnes
MIA Desgagnes
The Mia Desgagnés has several sustainable development certifications, including "CLEANSHIPSUPER" and "GREEN PASSPORT"; but what sets her apart is her ability to run on three different types of fuel, including liquefied natural gas (LNG), which has undeniable environmental advantages, one of them being substantially reducing greenhouse gas emissions.

With a deadweight capacity of nearly 15,000 tons and tanks with a capacity exceeding 17,000 m³, the Mia Desgagnés is suitable for transporting refined petroleum products or chemicals. This next-generation, state-of-the-art ship was built at the Besiktas shipyard in Turkey using an original concept and specifications developed by Desgagnés to optimize safety, environmental performance, and operational efficiency. The ship’s double hull and Polar 7 certification guarantees her ability to navigate in ice. She’s equipped with a variable pitch propeller as well as bow and stern thrusters providing exemplary maneuverability and an optimal level of safety. 

Leo Ryan
Leo Ryan

CANADA CORRESPONDENT

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