Massive newbuild programme enhances efficiency of Norwegian owner's LNG fleet

摘要

Knutsen OAS Shipping has taken delivery of Santander Knutsen, part of a massive, ongoing US$2.8Bn, 15-vessel newbuilding programme that will see the Norwegian shipowner double its fleet to 30 LNG carriers by 2025. The 174,000 m~3 LNG carrier was delivered by Hyundai Samho Heavy Industries (HSHI) and has been fixed under long-term charter to the Anglo-Dutch energy giant Shell. Knutsen held a naming ceremony in June at the South Korean shipyard for the vessel and three other LNG sister vessels, Huelva Knutsen, Ferrol Knutsen, and Extremadura Knutsen. Shell signed a charter deal for the NIS-flagged Santander Knutsen and three other Knutsen LNG carrier newbuilds, along with two from Korea Line and Global Meridian Holdings in 2019. All eight LNG newbuilds were contracted with Hyundai Heavy Industries (HHI) and HSHI.