The two LNG dual-fuelled vessels will be the first of their kind in the Hawaii/Mainland trade lane, operating fully on LNG. The vessels will include a state-of-the-art engine, an optimised hull form, and an underwater propulsion system with a high-efficiency rudder and propeller.

Delivery of the first vessel is expected mid-2019, with delivery of the second vessel to come in early 2020.

George Pasha, IV, President and CEO, said: “Since entering the Hawaii shipping business in 2005, Pasha Hawaii has made and will continue to make significant capital investments to support our expanding customer base and the local business community as a whole.

“In addition to increasing capability for our customers, these new ships will represent a new era in shipping for Hawaii in terms of greatly reduced emissions and increased efficiency.

“We are fortunate to have shipyards within the United States that are very capable of building best-in-class cargo ships, including LNG powered vessels, competitively […] Both the Jean Anne and Marjorie C are Jones Act-qualified vessels and like our new containerships, represent many firsts for the industry in terms of design and performance. Pasha Hawaii is proud to support our shipyards and the many skilled workers who are a part of this important industry.”