Canada awards new polar icebreaker contract to Seaspan’s Vancouver Shipyards

The Canadian Government has awarded a CA$3.15 billion ($2.19 million) contract to Seaspan’s Vancouver Shipyards for the construction of one of the Canadian Coast Guard’s (CCG's) future polar icebreakers designated under the country's national shipbuilding strategy.

As part of its fleet renewal plan, the CCG is acquiring two polar icebreakers, the other being built by Chantier Davie Canada.

The government said these vessels will have more advanced capabilities than the current, most capable CCG icebreakers, and ensure the CCG’s operations continue at higher latitudes for longer periods, strengthen Arctic security, advance Arctic research, and better respond to maritime emergencies.

“The national shipbuilding strategy is providing the Canadian Coast Guard with its fleet of the future," said Jean-Yves Duclos, Minister of Public Services and Procurement.

"The polar icebreaker to be built by the Vancouver Shipyards will be able to operate in the Arctic year-round, further bolstering our ability to deliver crucial services to northern communities and support Canadian sovereignty in the Arctic.”