NYK orders LPG/NH3 carrier newbuilding pair from local yard

Nippon Yusen Kabushiki Kaisha (NYK) has placed an order for two LPG/liquefied ammonia gas (NH3) carriers in a series to be built by Kawasaki Heavy Industries (KHI).

The vessels will be the first of their kind to be operated by NYK following their deliveries in 2024. Each will have an LOA of approximately 230 metres, a moulded beam of 37.2 metres, and a total cargo capacity of 86,700 cubic metres.

Unlike conventional very large gas carriers (VLGCs), the vessels will be equipped with separate cargo tanks designed to carry LPG and ammonia at the same time to flexibly respond to various trade patterns.

Each ship will also have an LPG dual-fuel engine and a shaft generator that can generate electricity during the voyage by using the rotation of the shaft that connects the main engine to the propeller. Since the diesel generator can be stopped during normal seagoing transit, realising full navigation with LPG fuel will be possible except for the use of a small amount of pilot fuel.