Qatari LNG shipping giant Nakilat has completed the second phase of its fleet management transition from Shell International Trading and Shipping Company Limited (Shell).
During the second phase, a total of seven LNG carriers transitioned to Nakilat’s in-house technical and operational management.
On October 27, 2020, The Q-Max LNG carrier Lijmiliya was the seventh and final vessel to transition from Shell to Nakilat Shipping Qatar Limited (NSQL) in this second phase transition, bringing the fleet size fully managed by NSQL to 26 vessels, comprising of 22 LNG and 4 LPG carriers.
Nakilat has been working closely with its long-term partner Shell over the past several years, carrying out preparations and planning to ensure the safe and seamless transition of management of these essential assets for Qatar’s gas supply chain.
Nakilat CEO Abdullah Fadhalah Al Sulaiti said, “The management of our vessels centrally controlled from Qatar allows us to further capitalize on existing synergies with our main charterer (Qatargas), realize operational efficiencies and optimize costs.”
“We strive to steer forward through tactfully formulated strategies, seizing potential long-term growth opportunities, strengthening ship management capabilities and enhancing operational excellence in our vision to be a global leader and provider of choice for energy transportation and maritime services”, Al Sulaiti said.
The first phase of the fleet management transition between Nakilat and Shell involving 10 LNG carriers began in late 2016 and was completed in August 2017.
Nakilat’s fleet includes some of the largest and most technically advanced LNG carriers, carrying cargoes that supply energy to millions of people around the world.
Shell will continue to manage 8 LNG vessels on behalf of Nakilat until the final phase of transition.