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Quebec-headquartered Groupe Desgagnes has taken delivery of the world's first dual-fuel, LNG-powered asphalt tanker, the M/T Damia Desgagnes.

The next-generation asphalt-bitumen tanker is the first of a series of four carriers custom-built according to an original concept developed by Desgagnes and ordered at the Besiktas shipyard near Istanbul, Turkey.

The 15,000-deadweight-tonne, double-hulled vessel is equipped with a Wartsila 5RT-flex 50DF engine and a power output of 5,450 kilowatts (kW). It can be powered by either heavy fuel oil, marine diesel oil or liquefied natural gas (LNG).

Since last August, and in addition to the training received in Canada, Desgagnes crew members and managers travelled to Turkey to familiarize themselves with the ship's special features and technologies as well as its dual-fuel propulsion system. They have also participated in various verifications, inspections and trials. To date, Desgagnes says that almost 2,500 hours of training in the handling of LNG has been given in total.

Commenting on the issues of refuelling with LNG in Canada, Desgagnes said: "LNG refuelling distribution networks for vessels without specific service points and trading various routes remain a major challenge, but they are under development in collaboration with different partners such as Gaz Metro and the ports of Quebec and Montreal. Desgagnes will continue working with the various suppliers to improve and adapt their services to the needs of the marine industry."

Louis-Marie Beaulieu, chairman of the board and chief executive officer of Desgagnes, added: "LNG has a bright future in maritime transportation and Desgagnes will actively contribute to broadening its use."

According to ship-tracking data, the Damia Desgagnes is currently in Turkey. Desgagnes says the ship is likely to perform a delivery in Europe before heading to North America and arriving in mid-May.