General Dynamics NASSCO delivers new tanker to SEA-Vista

General Dynamics NASSCO has delivered the third and final ECO class tanker to SEA-Vista, which has been named Liberty.

General Dynamics NASSCO has delivered the third and final ECO class tanker to SEA-Vista, which has been named Liberty.

The new vessel was developed as part of SEA-Vista's eight-ship ECO class tanker programme, and features 50,000dwt capacity, as well as offering improved fuel efficiency and cleaner shipping options.

The liquefied natural gas (LNG) conversion-ready product carriers measure 610ft in length, and can also carry 330,000 barrel of cargo.

Liberty went to the sea for the first time for tests and trials earlier this week.

NASSCO has already delivered the two ships built as part of a deal signed with SEA-Vista in 2013.

General Dynamics NASSCO pre-production operations vice-president Steve Davison said: “We are grateful for our partnership with SEA-Vista, and the opportunity to design and construct three vessels equipped with world-leading technology and capability that will service their customers for decades to come.

"Credit for the successful completion of this contract goes to the thousands of world-class NASSCO shipbuilders and our partners, who worked to provide unmatched quality and service."

“Credit for the successful completion of this contract goes to the thousands of world-class NASSCO shipbuilders and our partners, who worked to provide unmatched quality and service from day one.”

The company also noted that Liberty will be jointly owned by American Petroleum Tankers. It is the seventh vessel of SEA-Vista’s eight-ship programme

The programme's eighth and final ship is scheduled to be christened and launched by 25 March at NASSCO’s shipyard in San Diego, US.

Image: SEA-Vista’s new ECO class tanker, Liberty. Photo: courtesy of General Dynamics NASSCO.