Top 10 LNG Tanker Companies Leading Global LNG Trade
- Chandrama Vishawakarma
- Dec 4, 2023
- 9 min read
Updated: Aug 4
Table of Content
Overview of the LNG Shipping Industry in 2025
Top 10 LNG Tanker Companies in the World
1. Nakilat: Qatar's Unrivaled LNG Armada
2. Mitsui O.S.K. Lines (MOL): Japan's Diverse LNG Fleet
3. NYK: A Beacon of Excellence in LNG Operations
4. Maran Gas: A Leading Player with a Young Fleet
5. Seapeak: A Strategic Player in Liquid Gas Transport
6. MISC Berhad: Malaysia's Global LNG Carrier
7. BW Group: A Diversified Maritime Giant with a Leading Gas Fleet
8. GasLog: A Formidable Force in LNG Shipping
9. Shell International Trading and Shipping (Shell Shipping): An Integrated Energy Giant
10. Dynagas: A Modern Fleet in a Growing Market
The Enduring Power of LNG Tankers in Global Energy Security
Shipfinex's Perspective: Unlocking Investment in the LNG Tanker Market's Future
Overview of the LNG Shipping Industry in 2025
In an era of rapidly surging global demand for liquefied natural gas (LNG), the LNG carrier industry finds itself in a pivotal position, literally facilitating the vital movement of this chilled fuel from remote production hubs to consumption centers across continents. The world's reliance on LNG has never been more pronounced, underscoring the critical role played by specialized shipping companies in this high-stakes energy trade. Consider, for instance, the recent energy supply crunch in European markets, where the ongoing global geopolitical shifts have heightened the importance of flexible LNG shipping to Europe's energy security.
But who are the silent giants commanding the vast fleets that ensure this precious energy resource reaches its destination, and how are they shaping the future of global energy supply?
LNG Market Insight: A Sector on the Cusp of Explosive Growth
The global LNG shipping industry stands on the cusp of a significant expansion, driven by escalating demand for liquefied natural gas and the continuous growth of production capacities worldwide. Analysts are forecasting a robust 7.5% growth in the LNG vessel fleet this year (2025). This surge in fleet size directly responds to the urgent need for secure and diversified energy supplies globally.
Currently, the global LNG fleet comprises approximately 639 vessels (excluding FSRUs, dedicated storage, and bunkering vessels), collectively offering an impressive 100 million cubic meters of capacity, equivalent to a substantial 54 million deadweight tonnes. The LNG carrier orderbook has witnessed a dramatic surge, with the combined count of new vessels on order, slated for delivery from 2023 onward, surpassing 288 LNG tankers, reaching its zenith in 2025.
This represents an estimated collective investment ranging from $72 billion to $92 billion, considering the average construction cost of an LNG tanker hovers between $250 million to $320 million per vessel. This investment signals strong confidence in LNG's pivotal role in the global energy mix.
Through meticulous analysis encompassing fleet statistics, surging orderbook data, and ongoing operations, we delve into the intricate landscape of the global LNG carrier industry. This comprehensive guide for 2025 will spotlight the Top 10 LNG Tanker Companies in the world, shedding light on critical details from their colossal capacities to their strategic operational footprints. These largest LNG shipping companies are not just transporters; they are crucial enablers of global energy security, continuously innovating to meet an insatiable worldwide appetite for cleaner energy.
Top 10 LNG Tanker Companies in the World
Nakilat: Qatar's Unrivaled LNG Armada
Nakilat Shipping (Qatar) Ltd., situated in energy-rich Qatar, has emerged as a formidable force in the global LNG transportation arena. Established as a joint venture, Nakilat boasts an exceptional track record in the specialized realm of liquefied natural gas transportation. Its prominence in the LNG universe is underscored by its colossal fleet, the largest of its kind worldwide, encompassing a staggering 69 LNG carriers.
This formidable armada includes a diverse range of vessels, with 24 conventional carriers, 31 Q-Flex carriers, and 14 Q-Max carriers. The Q-Max carriers, engineering marvels with an astounding capacity of 266,000 cubic meters, exemplify Nakilat's commitment to meeting the burgeoning LNG demand, especially from the Middle East. A cornerstone of Nakilat's success is its enduring partnership with industry giant Shell, dating back to 2006, ensuring the safe and dependable transportation of LNG globally.
2. Mitsui O.S.K. Lines (MOL): Japan's Diverse LNG Fleet
Mitsui O.S.K. Lines (MOL), a prominent Japanese player in the maritime transportation arena, holds a commanding position in the LNG carrier sector. MOL's LNG carrier fleet comprises 107 vessels, exhibiting a diverse range of propulsion technologies. This includes 6 carriers employing eXpanded Diesel Fuel (XDF) technology and 7 featuring Dual-Fuel Diesel Electric (DFDE) propulsion systems.
The fleet also includes motor-powered and steam-driven LNG carriers, spanning a volumetric range from 171,000 to 271,000 cubic meters. MOL's global presence ensures these vessels are strategically positioned to transport LNG to power generation facilities, industrial hubs, and LNG terminals worldwide. The company has ordered 16 new LNG carriers for delivery between 2023 and 2026, further solidifying its commitment to this critical segment.
3. NYK: A Beacon of Excellence in LNG Operations
NYK LNG Shipmanagement Ltd., a subsidiary of the illustrious Nippon Yusen Kabushiki Kaisha (NYK), stands as a beacon of excellence in the realm of LNG carrier operations. NYK, among the world's largest shipping conglomerates, entrusts its LNG fleet to this subsidiary, epitomizing a commitment to safety and environmental stewardship.
NYK's LNG carrier armada comprises a total of 59 LNG tankers and an additional LNG bunkering vessel. The fleet's diversity is evident in its categorization: 20 carriers utilize XDF technology, 24 are equipped with DFDE engines, and some are motor-powered or steam-driven. NYK's LNG carriers span a volumetric spectrum from 174,000 to an impressive 211,910 cubic meters, diligently transporting LNG globally.
4. Maran Gas: A Leading Player with a Young Fleet
Maran Gas Maritime Inc., a subsidiary of the Angelicoussis Shipping Group, is a leading player in the LNG carrier industry. With a fleet of 48 LNG carriers boasting a combined capacity of 6.6 million cubic meters, Maran Gas Maritime ranks among the industry's stalwarts. Their unwavering commitment to safety and environmental protection is reflected in an average fleet age of just 8 years.
In 2022, Maran Gas Maritime welcomed two groundbreaking additions, with the Maran Gas Amorgos becoming the largest LNG vessel in their fleet with a capacity of 176,523 cubic meters. The company consistently invests in innovative technologies to enhance operational efficiency and sustainability, ensuring its continued prominence in the LNG shipping sector.
5. Seapeak: A Strategic Player in Liquid Gas Transport
Seapeak Maritime (Glasgow) Ltd. has emerged as a formidable presence in the LNG carrier industry, operating a substantial fleet primarily chartered to major oil and gas corporations. While relatively new to the global LNG shipping market, its strategic acquisition of Teekay LNG Partners in 2022 marked a significant milestone. Currently, Seapeak Maritime commands a diverse fleet comprising 50 LNG tankers (including five newbuilds) and 42 vessels dedicated to LPG, Ethane, and Multigas transport (including four newbuilds).
One distinctive aspect of Seapeak's journey is its commitment to self-reliance in LNG shipbuilding since 2002, managing a total of 36 new builds entirely in-house. Seapeak prides itself on close collaboration with shipbuilders to pioneer world-leading designs, including MEGI and ARC 7 technologies.
6. MISC Berhad: Malaysia's Global LNG Carrier
MISC Berhad, a subsidiary of Petronas and a prominent Malaysian shipping corporation, has carved a formidable niche in the global LNG carrier industry. With a distinguished history and powerful backing from Petronas, MISC Berhad commands a fleet of 29 LNG carriers, aggregating an impressive 2.7 million cubic meters in capacity. These carriers, classified into various cutting-edge classes, exemplify MISC Berhad's commitment to innovation and efficiency. The Seri C Class vessels represent the epitome of LNG carrier technology.
Notably, the Seri Cenderawasih, delivered in 2023 with a capacity of 150,200 cubic meters, and the Seri Camellia, propelled by a dual-fuel engine operating on both LNG and diesel fuel, showcase pioneering technology. MISC Berhad's largest LNG carrier, the Seri Bakti, with its staggering 452,319 cubic meters capacity, underscores the company's preeminence in the LNG sector.
7. BW Group: A Diversified Maritime Giant with a Leading Gas Fleet
BW Group, founded by Sir Yue-Kong Pao in 1955, has established itself as a global leader in maritime energy transportation and infrastructure. The company has evolved over the decades, expanding its reach into various segments of the shipping industry, including LNG transportation. BW LNG, a subsidiary of BW Group, has steadily built a robust LNG fleet to meet the growing demand for clean energy. BW LNG owns and operates a fleet of over 27 LNG carriers and 4 Floating Storage and Regasification Units (FSRUs).
The BW LNG fleet includes a variety of vessels, including Q-Flex, Q-Max (the largest LNG carriers in the world with a capacity of 266,000 cubic meters), and Arc7 carriers (designed for Arctic waters). The BW LNG fleet is deployed globally, transporting LNG to power plants, industrial facilities, and LNG terminals, committing to safe and reliable transportation of this clean and efficient energy source.
8. GasLog: A Formidable Force in LNG Shipping
GasLog Ltd, a Monaco-based company publicly traded on the New York Stock Exchange, has become a formidable force in the LNG shipping sector since its inception in 2003. With a fleet of 34 LNG carriers, boasting a total capacity of 5.75 million cubic meters, GasLog plays a pivotal role in the global transportation of liquefied natural gas (LNG). The fleet encompasses a diverse range of vessels, including Q-Max vessels (266,000 cubic meters capacity) and Arc7 carriers (engineered for Arctic operations).
Standout vessels include the GasLog London (the largest LNG carrier in the fleet), the dual-fuel engine-powered GasLog Savannah, and the recently delivered GasLog Sydney. With a well-maintained, modern fleet, GasLog is ideally positioned to meet the burgeoning demand for LNG transportation, also managing a fleet of LPG carriers.
9. Shell International Trading and Shipping (Shell Shipping): An Integrated Energy Giant
Shell International Trading and Shipping Co. Ltd. (Shell Shipping), a subsidiary of Royal Dutch Shell plc, is a pivotal player in the LNG transportation sector. As a subsidiary of one of the world's largest oil and gas companies, Shell Shipping holds responsibility for the comprehensive management of Shell's fleet, including a significant number of LNG carriers. Shell is a prominent player across the entire LNG value chain, encompassing upstream production, liquefaction, shipping, regasification, and downstream sales.
Their extensive fleet of approximately 67 LNG carriers operates globally. Notably, they operate the world's largest LNG carrier, FSRU Prelude, with a remarkable displacement of up to 600,000 metric tons. Shell's commitment extends to environmental responsibility, with some of their LNG carriers featuring dual-fuel diesel-electric propulsion systems, reducing emissions and enhancing efficiency.
10. Dynagas: A Modern Fleet in a Growing Market
Dynagas Ltd, established in 2005, is a prominent independent LNG carrier operator known for its commitment to safety, reliability, and environmental responsibility. With a fleet of 18 state-of-the-art LNG carriers boasting a combined capacity of nearly 3 million cubic meters, Dynagas is a significant player in the industry. Notably, their vessel Clean Copano, launched in 2022, has a capacity of 199,829 cubic meters. The company excels in chartering, commercial management, and investments in advanced technologies to enhance operational efficiency and sustainability. Dynagas's presence in the LNG maritime transportation sector underscores its dedication to meeting the rising global demand for clean energy transport.
The Enduring Power of LNG Tankers in Global Energy Security
These Top 10 LNG Tanker Companies play an indispensable role in powering global energy security. Their vast, technologically advanced fleets are not just moving fuel; they are enabling national energy diversification, supporting geopolitical stability, and facilitating the transition to cleaner energy sources worldwide. The substantial investments in newbuilds and specialized carriers reflect profound confidence in LNG's enduring importance.
As the LNG market continues its robust expansion, these largest LNG shipping companies will remain at the forefront, navigating the complexities of energy demand, geopolitical shifts, and the continuous drive for efficiency and sustainability.
Shipfinex's Perspective: Unlocking Investment in the LNG Tanker Market's Future
The insights into these top LNG tanker companies reveal an industry characterized by massive scale, strategic operations, and continuous adaptation to global energy demands and environmental mandates. While investing directly in a multi-million-dollar LNG carrier might seem out of reach for many, Shipfinex recognizes the immense value these maritime giants represent and the compelling maritime investment opportunities within this sector.
Shipfinex is pioneering solutions that democratize access to this historically exclusive market.
Through fractional ownership of maritime assets, our platform enables investors to participate in global trade and potentially earn returns from operating vessels, including those in the high-value LNG segment. We transform the dream of being a tanker owner into a tangible reality, bringing transparency and accessibility to maritime investments, and allowing discerning investors to capitalize on the crucial role LNG plays in the global energy mix.
FAQs on top LNG tanker companies
Who are some of the top LNG tanker companies globally in 2025?
Leading companies include Nakilat, Mitsui OSK Lines (MOL), NYK, Maran Gas, Seapeak, MISC Berhad, BW Group, GasLog, Shell, and Dynagas, all playing crucial roles in global LNG transport.
What is the current size and growth of the global LNG vessel fleet?
The global LNG fleet comprises over 630 vessels with significant capacity, and the LNG carrier orderbook has seen a substantial surge to over 280 new vessels, with robust fleet growth of around 7.5% expected in 2025.
How are LNG tanker companies contributing to energy security?
They ensure the vital movement of liquefied natural gas from production hubs to consumption centers worldwide, addressing global energy demands and providing crucial flexibility in energy supply, especially during geopolitical shifts.
What advanced technologies are new LNG carriers using?
Many new LNG carriers are employing technologies like eXpanded Diesel Fuel (XDF) and Dual-Fuel Diesel Electric (DFDE) propulsion systems, along with advanced containment systems, to enhance efficiency and reduce emissions.
How can one invest in the LNG tanker market?
Traditionally a high-capital market, platforms like Shipfinex are now making investment in LNG carriers more accessible through fractional ownership and tokenization of maritime assets, offering a new pathway for investors.