New 99,000cbm VLEC Delivered by Jiangnan Shipyard for Global Liquefied Gas Shipping

Jiangnan Shipyard, under China State Shipbuilding Corporation, has officially delivered the 99,000 cubic metre very large ethane carrier (VLEC) “GAS BEGONIA” on 18 August. The vessel marks the eighth unit of the same VLEC model built by the shipyard for Southwest Marine Shipping, further expanding the fleet capacity for global liquefied clean energy transportation.

As one of the world’s largest-capacity VLECs with independent core technologies, the vessel spans 230 metres in length and features a versatile cargo transportation system. It is capable of carrying multiple liquefied industrial and energy gases including ethane, ethylene and liquefied petroleum gas. Adopting self-developed BrillianceE® type-B cargo tank technology and patented second-generation VS-BOW hull design, the vessel delivers low fuel and gas consumption, minimal boil-off rates and low maintenance costs. Its robust structural design and energy-saving configuration enable stable and cost-effective long-distance transoceanic shipping operations, fully complying with international maritime emission standards.

The delivery process overcame adverse typhoon weather conditions that disrupted original construction schedules. Sea trial plans were delayed by ten days, yet the construction team implemented refined scheduling and streamlined operational procedures. Standard offshore sea trials were fully completed within just six days, achieving efficient progress against challenging climatic conditions.

The vessel was developed and built through tripartite collaboration between Jiangnan Shipyard, Southwest Marine Shipping and ABS Classification Society. In-depth communication and coordinated optimisation with ship owners and survey teams have upgraded construction management modes, shifting from systematic phased submission to integrated regional submission. The optimisation substantially improves overall operational efficiency and sea trial satisfaction. The new VLEC has been delivered 140 days ahead of the contractual deadline, demonstrating mature large-scale gas vessel construction capabilities.

The newly delivered vessel will join the global liquefied gas shipping fleet to undertake long-distance energy transport missions. The continuous delivery of serial VLEC vessels will further support stable global clean energy supply chains and drive the upgrading and development of high-end marine equipment for liquefied gas transportation.