LNG carriers: Greek shipowners lead the way

The global LNG carrier market is entering a new period of intense activity, with 2026 set to be a year of explosive growth in orders. Market estimates indicate that more than 100 new LNG carriers are expected to be ordered this year, a development that confirms that LNG remains a key pillar of the energy transition.

In this environment, Greek shipowners are not only actively participating, but also maintaining a leading role, further strengthening their position in the strategically important gas carrier sector.

The latest development is the move by TEN, owned by Dr. Nikos Tsakos, which – according to information – is in advanced discussions for the construction of 2+2 LNG carriers with a capacity of 174,000 cubic meters at the HD Hyundai shipyards in South Korea. As market sources emphasized, the ships are expected to be delivered in 2028, while this activity is part of the group’s diversification strategy and strengthening its presence in the energy sector.

At the same time, TMS Cardiff Gas, owned by George Economou, expanded its order book with four new LNG carriers with a capacity of 174,000 cubic meters, with an option for the construction of two more ships. The newbuildings will be built at China’s Hudong-Zhonghua shipyards and will be equipped with GTT’s NO96 Super+ system, designed to reduce carbon emissions by more than 10 tons per day. The choice of Hudong-Zhonghua also highlights China’s gradual rise in the demanding LNG carrier sector, which until recently was almost exclusively dominated by South Korean shipyards.

Alpha Gas, part of Anna Angelicoussis group, continues its strategy of strengthening its presence in the LNG market, ordering two ultra-modern tankers in South Korea. Their delivery is scheduled for 2029 and is part of a broader fleet renewal and development plan. The company already has a strong presence in the sector, with four LNG carriers under construction, which are expected to be delivered in 2026 and 2027.

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The above projects are added to an already strong Greek footprint in the sector. According to the latest data from Xclusiv Shipbrokers, by the end of January, Greek shipowners control 58 LNG carriers on order, corresponding to approximately 18% of the global orderbook of 314 ships. The majority of orders are for vessels with a capacity of 141,000 to 200,000 cubic meters, which form the backbone of the modern LNG trade.