GAC Russia handles world’s first reinforced Arc7 LNG carrier

The vessel is the world’s first LNG ship in the reinforced Arc7 class. It is the first of 15 vessels designed to export LNG from Sabetta to both Asian and European markets.

Upon arriving at Murmansk for ice trials in the Kara Sea, GAC Russia provided a number of services, including: obtaining its permit to operate in the Russian territorial waters; boarding engineers and scientists for the trials; delivering equipment and supplies on board; coordinating the vessel’s route with the Russian Coast Guard Service; and advising on Arctic navigation. After the trials were carried out, customs and border formalities were completed, and the crew disembarked the vessel. In addition to this, GAC Russia also handled safe passenger operations in Murmansk, arranged bunker supplies and delivered machine parts and ship supplies.

Following this, Christophe de Margerie commenced its journey to Sabetta. The port is dedicated to gas and gas condensate exports from the South-Tambeyskoye gas field, and is home to a liquefaction plant. Commercial shipments are expected to begin before the end of 2017.

GAC Russia’s General Manager, Tatyana Shorokhova, said: “This was an important milestone, both for us and for the country, and one which attracted considerable media attention.

“We believe that this is the start of a new era for Sabetta, and we look forward with confidence to the part that we will play in that future.

“GAC Russia will be at hand when commercial shipments start to provide the world-class professional agency services and other support, thus further strengthening our position in the Arctic.”