Avenir LNG Launches Second Bunkering Vessel in China | Mariner News

Avenir LNG has launched the second vessel in its current newbuild series, Hull No. S1124, in China, significantly advancing its fleet expansion to bolster global LNG bunkering capabilities.

The bunkering vessel entered the water on October 12 at Nantong CIMC Sinopacific Offshore & Engineering Co shipyard. This follows the launch of the first vessel in the series in July, indicating a rapid progression in Avenir LNG’s newbuild program. Construction will continue ahead of the vessel’s planned addition to the fleet.

This accelerated deployment of new tonnage underpins Avenir LNG’s strategic positioning within the growing LNG marine fuel market. The expansion aligns with a significant commercial development earlier this year, when NYK agreed in March to acquire a 50% stake in Avenir LNG from Stolt-Nielsen through a share purchase agreement.

The rapid fleet growth, supported by NYK’s investment, suggests a concerted effort to capitalize on the increasing demand for LNG as a marine fuel, potentially strengthening Avenir LNG’s competitive stance in key bunkering markets. Founded in 2017, Avenir LNG currently operates a fleet of five LNG bunkering vessels, making the addition of these newbuilds a substantial increase in its operational capacity.