Greek operator names LNG carrier

Greek shipping company TMS Cardiff Gas has held a naming ceremony for a liquefied natural gas (LNG) vessel built by South Korea’s Samsung Heavy Industries (SHI).

Athos LNG, hull No. 2635, is the first in a series of newbuild LNG carriers under construction at South Korea’s shipyard. The Greek firm was also thought to be behind the order for two liquified petroleum gas (LPG)/ammonia carriers SHI received in January.

Boasting 174,000 cubic meters, MEGA propulsion, shaft generator, and air lubrication system, Athos LNG is said to be an example of TMS’ commitment to innovation and sustainability for a greener tomorrow. The vessel is set to embark on a multi-year charter with Osaka Gas International Transport, a subsidiary of Osaka Gas.

In February, the Greek player hired Seatrium to upgrade 17 LNG carriers over three years, aiming to increase the vessels’ performance in terms of sustainability, cost efficiency, and timely deliveries.

Meanwhile, South Korea’s shipbuilder recently delivered an LNG tanker – the Celsius Granada – to Celsius, making it the tenth in the latter’s LNG fleet.