The keel-laying ceremony for the ice class LNG carrier “Veliky Novgorod” was held, Nov 4th, at STX Offshore & Shipbuilding Co. Ltd shipyard in South Korea. The vessel, first out of two, ordered by Sovcomflot (SCF Group) comes as the part of a long-term agreement with Gazprom Global LNG (part of the Gazprom Group).
The state-of-the-art Atlantic-max class gas carriers (tonnage approx. 170,000 m3, Ice class 2) come with a unique design and technology that allows them to operate in harsh climatic conditions and subzero temperatures, meaning they can transport gas from all existing LNG terminals all year round.
The first vessel is due to be ready in 2013 and the second one in 2014.
SCF fleet has 8 LNG and LPG carriers which are engaged in both Russian and international projects (Sakhalin-II, Tangguh). An additional six gas carriers are being built as part of a long-term time charter agreements with the world’s largest oil & gas companies.
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World Maritime News Staff, November 6, 2012; Image: SCF Group