WATCH: Avenir’s newbuild LNG bunkering vessel hits the water

July 21, 2026, by Melisa Cavcic

UK-headquartered Avenir LNG, an owner and operator of small-scale liquefied natural gas (LNG) carriers and LNG bunker vessels, has launched its new LNG bunkering vessel at Nantong CIMC Sinopacific Offshore & Engineering (CIMC SOE) in China.

Avenir Ambition LNG bunkering vessel; Source: Avenir LNG

Avenir LNG has unveiled the launch of the Avenir Ambition LNG bunkering vessel, as the first ship in the firm’s latest newbuilding pair program. This vessel is expected to be delivered by the end of the year.

The launch occurred on July 20, 2026, at CIMC SOE’s shipyard in China. The latest fleet addition is designed to expand Avenir LNG’s ship-to-ship and regional supply capabilities for cleaner alternative marine fuels.

Commenting on the launch of the vessel, Avenir LNG emphasized: “Today, we are proud to celebrate the launch of Avenir Ambition, the first vessel in our latest newbuilding programme.

“The launch of Avenir Ambition represents an important step in the continued growth of our fleet and our commitment to strengthening LNG supply chains around the world. As demand for flexible, reliable LNG logistics continues to grow, this vessel will further enhance our ability to support customers and expand our market presence.”

With a capacity of 20,000 cubic meters (cbm), Avenir Ambition will be chartered on a multi-year time-charter agreement to Vitol International Shipping. The second newbuild 20,000-cbm vessel is slated for delivery in 2027.

Michael Redpath, Head of Operations at Avenir LNG, stated: “Today is a proud day for all of us at Avenir LNG as we celebrate the launch of Avenir Ambition. I look forward to seeing Avenir Ambition complete her final outfitting and join our fleet, where she’ll play an important role in supporting customers around the world. Congratulations to everyone involved!”

Avenir LNG launches Avenir Ambition

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These two ships will expand Avenir LNG’s operational network, which already includes five active LNG bunkering vessels. The company ordered two 20,000 cbm LNG bunker and supply ships in 2024, which will enlarge its fleet to seven LNG bunkering vessels.

The vessel owner said: “We would like to extend our sincere thanks to the shipyard Nantong CIMC Sinopacific Offshore & Engineering as well as our dedicated project management and site team from Stolt Tankers, for their expertise, collaboration, and commitment in bringing this vessel to life.

“This achievement reflects the combined efforts of all involved, and we look forward to the next stages of construction and to welcoming Avenir Ambition into service.”