MOU requires new mid-sized LNG carriers for India

VLNG is developing the 1-mta Haldia LNG import terminal. Construction is expected to start by October 2020, with targeted project commissioning by the end of 2022, according to VLNG’s website. The project targets new end consumers from storage hubs in eastern India.

The Bay of Bengal’s shallow coastline dictates a bespoke shipping solution, for which Saga LNG will provide one or more LNT45-S design LNG carriers. The 45,000-m³ newbuildings will feature an LNT A-Box Containment system with no restrictions on partial loading, and have a fully laden draft of 7.8 m.

“Now that Saga Dawn is successfully trading, we are redoubling our efforts on developing new projects to grow our fleet of small- to mid-sized vessels,” said Saga LNG Shipping founder and chief executive David Wu. “We believe the market needs more innovative projects like the one VLNG is developing and we are very pleased to contribute to this exciting project by providing an optimised shipping solution,” added Mr Wu.

Saga LNG Shipping’s first LNG carrier Saga Dawn has an overall length of 195 m, beam of 30 m, design draught of 9 m and capacity of 45,000 m³.

With a service speed of 16.5 knots, Saga Dawn is powered by a single Wärtsilä dual-fuel main engine that mechanically connects to a single shaft and propeller. The ship’s auxiliary generator sets are also able to burn natural gas.

VLNG managing director Mayank Garg said VLNG was “excited to see the progress of Saga LNG in providing custom-made supply solutions to draft-limited ports – a necessity to access the distributed demand centres without dependence on third party infrastructure.”

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