Crowley's Tiscapa Sets Sail: A New Era for Caribbean Shipping!

Port of Jacksonville, Florida, USA - Crowley Maritime Corporation has officially launched its newest LNG-powered containership, the Tiscapa, marking a significant step forward in ocean cargo transport. The ship set sail from the Port of Jacksonville, Florida, on its inaugural journey to the Caribbean Basin. This vessel is part of Crowley’s innovative Avance Class, promising faster and larger transportation options within the U.S., Caribbean, and Central America. As it begins operations, Tiscapa brings a container capacity of 1,400 TEUs (20-foot equivalent units), which includes a cool 300 refrigerated units, perfect for those urgent shipments of perishable goods. Crowley’s commitment to environmental responsibility shines through as the Tiscapa runs on lower-emission LNG fuel, making it not just a logistical asset but a greener choice as well.

Andrew Davis, Vice President of Operations for Crowley Logistics, emphasized the enhanced logistics solutions that Tiscapa provides. It aims to facilitate quicker market connections for vital cargo, including medical devices, household goods, and food products. This vessel enriches the already established routes in the region, following in the wake of its sister ships, the Quetzal and Copán, which provide essential connections to El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras, and Nicaragua. With these developments, Crowley reaffirms its role as a key player in the logistics industry, tackling the challenges of cargo transport with innovative solutions.

Connecting Continents

The Tiscapa’s debut comes at a time when Crowley is keen to solidify its operations in the Caribbean and Central America. As the first of its kind, Tiscapa is expected to operate regularly between the U.S. and the Dominican Republic, further strengthening the supply chain and ensuring that goods reach their destinations swiftly and efficiently. The ship’s ability to manage high volumes of refrigerated cargo is particularly important in a market that increasingly demands fresh produce and medical supplies, reflecting changing consumer needs.

This investment in modern logistics is not just beneficial for Crowley; it supports broader economic growth in the region. The Avance-class ships, such as Tiscapa, are equipped with advanced technology, including high-pressure ME-GI engines that minimize methane emissions, setting a new standard in environmental efficiency for shipping. Crowley has made it clear: these vessels represent a forward-thinking approach to both innovation and responsibility in maritime transport.

A Legacy of Innovation

Tom Crowley, the company’s Chairman and CEO, has expressed that these ships symbolize the company’s commitment to leadership in supply chain solutions for international shipping. The recent launch of Tiscapa encapsulates Crowley’s reputation for embracing cutting-edge technology while remaining rooted in service to its customers and regional partners.

As Tiscapa embarks on its journey, it takes with it a name rich in history, inspired by a lagoon in Managua, Nicaragua. This thoughtful touch underscores Crowley’s respect for the cultures of the regions it serves. Looking ahead, the fourth Avance Class ship, Torogoz, named after El Salvador’s national bird, is poised to enter service in August, showing that Crowley is just getting started in expanding its impact in the maritime world.

In a climate where efficiency and sustainability are paramount, Crowley’s launch of the Tiscapa is a testament to its dedication to addressing critical logistics needs while simultaneously caring for the planet. With the backdrop of a vibrant market, the road ahead looks promising for Crowley and its innovative fleet.