The DNV-classed LNG/C Pioneer Knutsen – the world’s smallest LNG carrier – has a cargo capacity of a mere 1,100 m3 in two 550 m3 tanks. The vessel is some 69 metres long and has a deadweight of only 640 tons; tailor-made to fit the needs of the charterer Gasnor when it comes to small-scale local distribution of LNG along the Norwegian west coast.
“Maybe the vessel is a bit over-specified, but it gives almost extreme manoeuvrability that not many vessels can match,” says Jarle Østenstad of Knutsen OAS Shipping in Haugesund, Norway – the vessel’s owner.
“Safety and reliability are of fundamental importance to our company in general, and for this trade in particular,” he adds.
The Pioneer Knutsen made more than 100 cargo voyages and had some 300 port calls in 2006 and never needed a tug. Being independent of tug assistance is, of course, of great importance when frequent port calls are to be made.
“Many of the terminals the vessel visits are unmanned, so our crew literally jump ashore with a rope and fix the vessel in the proper position before discharging the LNG to the customer. As there is no backup LNG distribution system, we and Gasnor rely heavily on the performance of the vessel and crew. Our experience with the vessel has been very good to date,” Mr Østenstad says, concluding: “The Norwegian government is now introducing a NOx charge for coastal shipping in Norway and a vessel like our little LNG carrier will of course emit very little NOx. We see that as an incentive for coastal shipping to continue to focus on LNG fuel.”