General Dynamics NASSCO to Launch Largest Containership Ever Built in San Diego

The Lurline, the largest containership built in San Diego, at General Dynamics NASSCO.

SAN DIEGO — General Dynamics NASSCO will hold an event on June 15 to christen and launch the containership Lurline, the largest such ship ever built in San Diego, the company announced.

Lurline, constructed for Honolulu-based Matson Inc., is an 870-foot vessel that can hold 3,500 cargo containers — 20-foot-equivalent units (TEUs).

She has liquefied natural gas-capable engines and is designed for energy efficiency. Lurline is the lead ship of a two-vessel contract being built for Matson.

Thousands of people had roles in constructing the Lurline, which is designed to not only transport containers but also automobiles and rolling stock, including trailers. The construction and operation of the Lurline and its future sister ship are aligned with the Jones Act, which requires that goods transported between U.S. ports must go on ships that are built, owned and operated by U.S. citizens or permanent residents.

NASSCO is the only major shipyard on the West Coast of the U.S. that is designing, constructing and repairing ships for the U.S. Navy and commercial customers.

Ceremony participants will include General Dynamics NASSCO President Kevin Graney and Matson CEO Matt Cox. Constance Lau, CEO and director of Hawaiian Electric Industries and a Matson board member, will christen the ship with the traditional breaking of a champagne bottle on the hull.

The christening will be streamed live on June 15 starting at 6:30 p.m.

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