The Mariners Powering Crowley’s LNG Carrier in Puerto Rico
Crowley and Naturgy’s deployment of the first U.S.-flagged LNG carrier serving Puerto Rico marks a significant milestone in the ever-evolving maritime industry. Its name, American Energy, represents the economic impact, job opportunities and energy reliability offered through Crowley and the U.S. maritime and energy industries.
This vessel strengthens domestic energy security, as domestically sourced LNG is a dependable and cleaner energy source. For Puerto Rico, it means greater energy stability and improved business resilience. For U.S. mariners, it means new career opportunities. For customers like Naturgy, it means meeting their market needs with partners like Crowley.
On shore, Crowley’s advanced energy team was close to the needs of Naturgy. They sought to understand what their market needed: moving gas from the U.S. mainland to Puerto Rico for the first time. With the hard work of the American Energy crew at sea, the completion of this achievement highlights the critical role of maritime team members in ensuring the advancement of the maritime and supply chain industries.
Captain
General Utility Deck/Engine (GUDE)
Bosun
A Historic Moment for the U.S. Merchant Marine
The LNG carrier has a capacity of over 130,000 cubic meters — enough to power approximately 80,000 homes for a year in each product delivery. Originally built in France, it was reflagged for domestic service to Puerto Rico under a 1996 federal law and certified as a CAP-1 vessel, the highest condition rating standard for safety, vessel condition and regulatory requirements.
For Captain Gasior, a 14-year mariner and graduate from SUNY Maritime College with six years at Crowley, reflagging the vessel is a highlight, as it is the only U.S. LNG carrier to date.
“This achievement demonstrates that with the right people, anything is possible,” Gasior said. “It sets the tone for more opportunities for seafarers and opens doors for new ventures and partnerships.”
Mariners and the shore-based team members from Puerto Rico know the value of LNG as an important energy source for their families and island communities, making the vessel’s mission personally significant by enhancing their pride and motivation.
American Energy Bosun Colón-Matos, a native of Puerto Rico, echoed the point: “It is a proud moment to serve the island of Puerto Rico, contributing to its energy security and being part of a pioneering effort that I hope to see evolve and grow.”
The Importance of Seafarers in the LNG Carrier Trade
Onboard, the captain is in overall command. They oversee successful operations and ensure the highest safety standards while working in tandem with the crew. The general utility deck/engine role involves maintenance, repairs and assisting with operations. The bosun supervises the deck crew, ensuring smooth execution of daily tasks. Together, they form a skilled team unit essential for the vessel’s safe and successful operation.
Mariners are the backbone of maritime operations, and the American Energy supports creating marine jobs on the island. Gasior emphasized the importance of pursuing a career in the marine industry, highlighting the crew’s dedication and expertise as key factors in the success of the LNG carrier trade.
“There are many areas, and each position is necessary to complete the work correctly and safely in the industry,” said Rochez, who described herself as someone who “absolutely loves” her job as a general utility deck.
Although it’s not an easy career, it’s achievable with commitment and has helped her begin achieving life goals and learn valuable skills in her first year at sea..
“I’m proud to influence my four kids to follow in my footsteps because this industry offers financial stability and growth opportunities that are hard to find on land,” she said. “My father was a mariner, and I followed in his footsteps, proving that it’s never too late to start. My journey from being a nursing assistant and elder care worker to a mariner has made my sisters proud, and it shows how maritime skills are transferable and impactful.”
Training, Performance and Teamwork
Captain Gasior discussed how the crew has undergone rigorous and continuous training over the past year to obtain the necessary qualifications to operate the unique LNG carrier.
“The on-the-job training and observer period on a sister vessel has been instrumental in helping the crew operate the vessel successfully. It has complemented our formal training and ensured operational efficiency,” Gasior explained.
“Full dedication, going the extra mile and collaboration are necessary to ensure everything works smoothly,” Colón-Matos, who has over 20 years of sailing experience, said. “The reflagging process involved a lot of learning, as we had to start from scratch to adhere to the U.S. Coast Guard processes, rules and regulations.”
The crew constantly share information, hold meetings and ensure that all necessary measures are taken to protect everyone on board.
“Without communication, there’s nothing. The base of our work is good communication.” Colón-Matos added, “Safety is paramount in our operations. Teamwork with engineers and other crew members is essential to ensure the cargo, equipment and people arrive safely at their destination.”
All three crew members agree that while the challenge was complex, the experience created a solid bond in the team. Overall, it was thrilling to witness and participate in history being made aboard the American Energy. It showed them there’s no end to what you can learn as a mariner and it’s even better when you learn together.
Pursuing a Career in the Maritime Industry
Currently, one-third of the 22 crew members onboard are Puerto Rican or Hispanic, a detail that Gasior sees as an advantage. It has created a warm and welcoming environment between the vessel and the terminal in any port the crew calls.
“Having local Puerto Rican crew members has streamlined operations, especially when interacting with local terminal operators. Their presence has made the vessel’s operations more fluid and efficient”, he said.
Choosing a maritime career requires strength and being away from home for extended periods.
“Prepare yourself, get educated in schools and strive to be the best. It fills you with great pride because you can go anywhere and say you are a merchant mariner,” Colón-Matos advised. People are amazed at this extraordinary career once they learn about it. There are many growth opportunities and the financial compensation is rewarding.”
Captain Gasior advised cadets to embrace opportunities:
“Getting ship and sea experiences before graduating is essential, as these opportunities are invaluable for a successful maritime career. I encourage young mariners to tackle their challenges as they come and do not fear the unknown. This approach helps me manage the uncertainties of a maritime career at sea.”
Rochez agreed, noting that marine careers help people grow personally and professionally.
“Just apply, start and jump at it,” she concluded.
Crowley offers rewarding maritime careers for college graduates and others looking to join a company that prioritizes safety and innovation while providing competitive wages, opportunities to advance and the choice to join a hard-working team building a sustainable future. Learn more about maritime jobs, including becoming a seaman or a tankerman.
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