Honolulu-based shipping company Pasha Hawaii has decided to order two new liquefied natural gas (LNG) fueled container vessels, with the option to order two additional vessels, as it narrowed its selection for the construction to two U.S. shipyards.

The company said that the contract specifications for the ships are expected to be finalized by the end of the month, while the final selection decision is expected in January 2017. The new 3,400teu boxships would be capable of carrying 500 45-foot containers and 400 refrigerated containers at a sailing speed of 23 knots.

Delivery of the first containership is expected mid-2019, with delivery of the second vessel to come in early 2020.

Pasha Hawaii said that the two LNG dual-fueled vessels will be the first of their kind in the Hawaii/Mainland trade lane operating fully on LNG. The company added that energy savings will be achieved with a state-of-the-art engine, an optimized hull form, and an underwater propulsion system with a high-efficiency rudder and propeller.

"In addition to increasing capability for our customers, these new ships will represent a new era in shipping for Hawaii in terms of greatly reduced emissions and increased efficiency," said George Pasha, IV, President and CEO.