/en/newsroom/news/local-news/united-states/2026/june/msc-usa-completes-first-ever-lng-bunkering-operation
Photo © Port of Long Beach
MSC USA marked a major milestone by successfully completing MSC’s first-ever liquefied natural gas (LNG) bunkering operation in the United States on 5 January 2026.
On that day, the MSC Maria Christina received 6,800m³ of LNG from the Seaspan Baker, an LNG bunkering vessel. The operation took place at the LGB Inner Anchorage, a designated area within the Long Beach Harbor where large vessels can safely anchor, helping reduce congestion outside the breakwater to support better vessel management at the port.
Bunkering was carried out after cargo operations were completed due to cold ironing requirements, when vessels plug into the local electrical grid to power onboard services like lights and refrigeration. Building on our excellent relations with the U.S Coast Guard, this operation took place under their supervision to maintain the highest level of safety and compliance standards.
This milestone was followed by a similar LNG bunkering operation completed for the first-time on the U.S. East Coast, supplying the MSC Namibia in Savannah, Georgia, a week later.
MSC USA marked a major milestone by successfully completing MSC’s first-ever liquefied natural gas (LNG) bunkering operation in the United States on 5 January 2026.
On that day, the MSC Maria Christina received 6,800m³ of LNG from the Seaspan Baker, an LNG bunkering vessel. The operation took place at the LGB Inner Anchorage, a designated area within the Long Beach Harbor where large vessels can safely anchor, helping reduce congestion outside the breakwater to support better vessel management at the port.
Bunkering was carried out after cargo operations were completed due to cold ironing requirements, when vessels plug into the local electrical grid to power onboard services like lights and refrigeration. Building on our excellent relations with the U.S Coast Guard, this operation took place under their supervision to maintain the highest level of safety and compliance standards.
This milestone was followed by a similar LNG bunkering operation completed for the first-time on the U.S. East Coast, supplying the MSC Namibia in Savannah, Georgia, a week later.
" This achievement reflects our collective commitment to innovation and safety, opening the door to a growing LNG future for MSC. "