Conrad Shipyard, L.L.C. engaged Bristol Harbor Group, Inc. (BHGI) to develop a 3,000 cubic meter Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG) transport barge utilizing a Bristol Harbor Group proven hull design built by Conrad.  Bristol Harbor Group has been awarded an Approval in Principle (AIP) by the American Bureau of Shipping (ABS) for the design of the 3,000 cubic meter Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG) Transport Barge design on behalf of Conrad Shipyard, L.L.C. of Morgan City, Louisiana.

BHGI has a decade long relationship with Conrad Shipyard, L.L.C. that has traditionally focused on coastal liquid cargo barges from 26,000 BBL to 80,000 BBL. It is the 300’ version of these successful double hull oil barges that serves as the basis for this LNG Transport Barge.

This new design will serve the purpose of primarily transporting LNG in blue water along the United States coastline. Storage containment consists of four Type C pressure tanks, all equally sized at 750 cubic meters. The tank design offers suitable hold times for cargo transport without the need for reliquefaction. The design is focused on constructability and ensuring cargo safety.

Greg Beers, P.E. President/Principal Naval Architect, said, “Bristol Harbor Group, Inc. is honored to have Conrad Shipyard, L.L.C.’s trust regarding this exciting project. We are on the cutting edge of the marine industry’s adoption of LNG, and it is a pleasure to work with a client who shares our drive and commitment to this emerging market.”

BHGI has been actively involved in a number of marine related natural gas projects for a variety of clients. Recently, BHGI has been awarded a contract to perform design conversion work for the United States Army Corps of Engineers on one of their vessels from diesel to dual fuel.