QatarEnergy Strengthens LNG Fleet with Al Zuwair Carrier
QatarEnergy has welcomed Al Zuwair, the third of 12 state-of-the-art LNG carriers, built by a joint venture of NYK, Kawasaki Kisen Kaisha, MISC, and China LNG Shipping at HD Hyundai Heavy Industries’ Ulsan Shipyard. Measuring 299 meters with a 174 000 m³ capacity, the vessel operates under a time-charter contract and features advanced technologies like X-DF 2.1 iCER dual-fuel diesel engines, an air lubrication system, and a reliquefaction device to boost fuel efficiency and cut greenhouse gas emissions.
The delivery of Al Zuwair marks the first instance of NYK Group providing ship management services to the joint venture, supporting its “Sail Green, Drive Transformations 2026” strategy to ensure Japan’s stable energy supply. These eco-friendly technologies align with global sustainability goals, making the vessel a key asset in QatarEnergy’s expanding LNG fleet.
Source: NYK Line
The first vessel in the series, Al Tuwar, was named in April at Hudong-Zhonghua Shipbuilding in China and is set to begin LNG transport in May. QatarEnergy’s broader fleet expansion includes four conventional-size LNG vessels added last November, constructed at Samsung Heavy Industries and Hanwha Ocean in South Korea.
This addition is part of QatarEnergy’s historic 128-vessel shipbuilding program, the largest in the LNG industry, reinforcing its leadership in global LNG logistics. The company’s focus on innovative technology and strategic partnerships drives efficiency and sustainability in LNG transport.
