Greek shipowner Capital Gas Ship Management has ordered the world’s first two 88,000 cu m very-large ammonia carriers (VLAC) with KSOE.
The innovative vessels will be constructed at HD Hyundai Heavy Industries in Ulsan, South Korea, and are scheduled to be delivered by the second half of 2027.
As the owner explains these ships distinguish themselves from conventional very-large gas carriers as they are designed with significantly increased ammonia loading capacity in the cargo tanks, allowing them to carry ammonia up to 98% of cargo tank capacity.
Saying in a release that the Greek company is laying the foundations for the energy transition, Capital is currently implementing one of the largest and most diversified shipbuilding programs of 59 newbuildings with delivery dates extending from 2020 to 2027, including the order of the world’s first two liquefied CO2 (LCO2) 22,000cbm carriers, expected to be delivered in 2025-2026.
The signing ceremony took place during the Gastech 2023 event held in Singapore, whereby KSOE signed contracts for the world’s first four 88,000 cu m VLACs with Capital Gas and Singapore’s Eastern Pacific (EPS).
Furthermore, Capital Gas and EPS have agreed with Hyundai to explore the possibility for this series of vessels to be equipped with an ammonia dual-fuel propulsion system.
