China launches domestically developed large LNG carrier ship in Dalian

A brand new, domestically developed liquefied natural gas (LNG) carrier set sail from the bustling harbor city of Dalian in northeast China on Monday. 

Built by Dalian Shipbuilding Industry Co., Ltd. (DSIC), this colossal vessel marks the company's inaugural venture into large-scale LNG carrier construction. Spanning an impressive 295 meters in length, 46.4 meters in width and 26.2 meters in depth, it boasts a hefty payload capacity of 175,000 cubic meters. Designed with precision, it features a draft of 11.5 meters and cruises at a brisk 19.5 knots.

The vessel boasts a versatile ability to dock at major LNG terminals worldwide with seamless ship-to-shore integration. Remarkably, it maintains a meager daily boil-off rate of just 0.085 percent, ensuring optimal safety, stability and minimal LNG loss during transit.

Scheduled for delivery in August 2025, the LNG carrier undergoes meticulous commissioning for underwater mooring and cargo containment system construction before it embarks on its maiden voyage.

China's shipbuilding capability has grown rapidly in recent years, thanks to a robust ecosystem of domestic shipyards, engineering firms and research institutions collaborating to push the boundaries of maritime technology. By leveraging advanced manufacturing techniques and cutting-edge design capabilities, Chinese shipyards have been able to deliver complex and innovative vessels tailored to the specific needs of various industries.

This is demonstrated by the development of specialized vessels, including liquefied natural gas (LNG) carriers, container ships and offshore drilling rigs, which have been attracting international clients seeking high-quality vessels at competitive prices in recent years.

Last month, Qatar, in a bid to expand its LNG operations, ordered 18 of the world's largest LNG carriers from the China State Shipbuilding Corporation. With the order valued at nearly $6 billion, it is being cited as possibly the largest single LNG order and one of the largest ever placed in the industry.

(With input from agencies)