UK’s Portland Port approved for LNG ship-to-ship transfers

April 21, 2026, by Nadja Skopljak

Portland Port in the UK has received full approval to carry out liquefied natural gas (LNG) ship-to-ship (STS) transfers, adding to its existing oil and liquified petroleum gas (LPG) transfer services.

At the port based in South Dorset, STS operations can be performed alongside one of the berths or at anchor in the inner or outer harbor.

This milestone came as Portland Port celebrated its 30th anniversary this year. Before starting to operate on a commercial basis in 1996, the port operated as a naval base.

“Our new STS licence means that we can now support LNG transfers directly at our port. It will help reduce transit times and streamline operations for the LNG supply chain while providing access to a fully compliant and experienced marine infrastructure,” said Ian McQuade, Portland Port’s Commercial Director.

“With our strategic location 20 miles north of the English Channel shipping lanes and our well-established record in licensed and fully compliant STS transfer operations, we hope to work closely with customers to support their commercial and operational objectives.”