NYK Line Launches First China-Built LNG Carrier for QatarEnergy Project

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  • The “Al Tuwar” is NYK Line’s first LNG carrier constructed in China, marking a milestone in their collaboration with international partners and shipbuilders.
  • The vessel features an X-DF 2.1 iCER dual-fuel engine and a reliquefaction system, significantly enhancing fuel efficiency and reducing greenhouse gas emissions.
  • “Al Tuwar” is the first of 12 LNG carriers being built for QatarEnergy’s massive LNG transport initiative, supporting global energy supply stability.

On April 17, 2025, NYK Line, in collaboration with Kawasaki Kisen Kaisha, Ltd., MISC Berhad, and China LNG Shipping (Holdings) Limited, held a naming ceremony for a new liquefied natural gas (LNG) carrier commissioned by QatarEnergy. The ceremony took place at Hudong-Zhonghua Shipbuilding (Group) Co., Ltd. in China, where the vessel was christened “Al Tuwar,” named after a hill in Al Wakrah, a major city in Qatar.​

Fuel efficiency vessel

“Al Tuwar” is the first of 12 LNG carriers being constructed by the joint venture for QatarEnergy, one of the world’s largest LNG producers. Notably, this marks NYK’s inaugural involvement in building an LNG carrier in China. The vessel is scheduled to commence global LNG transportation in May 2025.​

Equipped with the advanced X-DF 2.1 iCER dual-fuel engine, “Al Tuwar” utilizes both fuel oil and boil-off gas, enhancing fuel efficiency. Additionally, it features a reliquefaction device that effectively manages surplus boil-off gas, contributing to reduced greenhouse gas emissions and environmental impact.​

This initiative aligns with NYK Group’s medium-term management plan, “Sail Green, Drive Transformations 2026,” focusing on strengthening core businesses and investing in growth areas like the LNG/LPG carrier sector. Through such endeavors, NYK aims to ensure a stable energy supply in Japan and globally, leveraging its extensive experience and networks in LNG carrier operations.​

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Source: NYK Line