Avenir LNG has commenced construction of its second 20,000 cbm LNG bunkering vessel at Nantong CIMC Sinopacific Offshore & Engineering Co., Ltd in China, following a steel cutting ceremony on October 17.

The vessel, designated Hull S1124, represents the second unit in Avenir LNG's latest series and is scheduled for delivery in the first quarter of 2027.

According to a statement by the UK firm earlier this month, the vessel will operate under a long-term charter arrangement with SeaRiver Maritime, the marine transportation affiliate of Exxon Mobil.

The transaction with ExxonMobil represents the energy major's entry into the LNG bunkering market. A second vessel, from Evalend Shipping, is scheduled for delivery in the fourth quarter of 2027 and will also be capable of supplying LNG and bio-LNG to marine customers.

The other 20,000 cbm vessel in Avenir LNG's latest series is due for delivery in 2026 and has been chartered by Vitol, Avenir LNG has previously stated.

As regards the five LNG bunker and supply vessels in its fleet that are currently operational, the Avenir Aspiration and Avenir Ascension, built in 2021 and 2022, respectively, have both been chartered by Avenir Supply & Trading; and the Avenir Advantage, Avenir Accolade and Avenir Achievement have been chartered by Petronas LNG, New Fortress Energy and Shell, respectively.

Built in 2022, the Avenir Achievement has 20,000 cbm capacity, whilst the other four vessels in operation are capable of storing up to 7,500 cbm.

Avenir LNG has offices in England, Scotland and Malaysia. Earlier this year, Stolt-Nielsen, through its subsidiary Stolt-Nielsen Gas, gained full control of the business by purchasing all shares held by Golar LNG and Aequitas.