Zodiac Maritime Said to Break Into LNG Segment With Korea Order

Zodiac Maritime is understood to have ordered two 174,000-cubic-metre LNG carriers at South Korea's Hanwha Ocean, marking what would be the UK-based shipowner's first move into the LNG carrier sector. Hanwha Ocean disclosed a 500 million dollar contract to build two LNG carriers for an unnamed shipowner, with brokerage reports linking the order to the Eyal Ofer-controlled company. The vessels are scheduled for delivery by November 2029, valuing them at about 250 million dollars each.

 

Details of the Order

 

Zodiac Maritime has reportedly placed an order. It ordered two LNG carriers. These are 174,000-cubic-metre vessels. They are being built at Hanwha Ocean. This is in South Korea.

The order would mark a segment entry. It would be the company's first LNG carriers. This is a new sector for it. It extends its Hanwha relationship. This reflects a strategic move.

 

The Disclosure and Attribution

 

The order was formally disclosed. Hanwha Ocean announced a contract. This was worth 500 million dollars. It covered two LNG carriers. The buyer was described as African.

Reports linked the order to Zodiac. Brokerage reports made this connection. One listed Zodiac as the buyer. It cited the same specifications. Delivery is due by November 2029.

 

The Broader Gas Expansion

 

The order fits a wider strategy. Zodiac has expanded into gas shipping. This spans recent years. It has several LPG carriers. This reflects growing gas interest.

The company has other reported orders. It was linked to ammonia carriers. This was in May 2026. These were also at Hanwha. This deepens its Hanwha relationship.

 

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The Shipyard's Orderbook

 

The order boosts Hanwha's intake. It brings 2026 orders to 41 vessels. These total substantial value. The orderbook is diverse. It spans many vessel types.

The intake includes varied vessels. These span VLCCs and LNG carriers. Containerships also feature. Gas carriers are included too. This reflects a broad orderbook.

 

Significance of the Order

 

The order marks a strategic entry. It would be Zodiac's first LNG carriers. This diversifies its fleet. It builds on its gas expansion. This positions it in the LNG sector.

The order forms part of a strong month. Hanwha secured many September contracts. These totalled around 2 billion dollars. Other orders came from various owners. This reflects strong shipyard demand.