Capital Clean Energy Carriers, led by Evangelos Marinakis, has officially confirmed the formation of a joint venture with CMA CGM. Through a newbuilding order in China, CMA CGM has now formally entered the LNG bunkering vessel segment.

Mr. Marinakis disclosed on June 12 that the 50/50 joint venture has signed a construction contract with CIMC SOE for one 20,000 cbm LNG bunkering vessel. The contract is valued at close to US$83 million, with delivery expected in the third quarter of 2028.

In March this year, the joint venture had already signed a letter of intent with the same shipyard for the construction of up to two vessels of this size.

Upon delivery, the vessel is expected to enter service under a 12-year time charter to a separate joint venture between CMA CGM and energy major TotalEnergies. That joint venture was established last year to develop and operate an LNG bunkering platform in the Port of Rotterdam.

CCEC stated that the vessel will feature advanced emission-reduction technologies and be equipped with an efficient dual-fuel power generation system. According to CCEC CEO Jerry Kalogiratos, this project represents a natural extension of the company's gas business platform from the transport sector into the marine fuel supply segment.

CCEC's current operating fleet consists of 17 vessels, including 13 LNG carriers. The company is also pursuing a newbuilding program that includes an additional eight LNG carriers, as well as dual-fuel medium-sized gas carriers and small LCO₂/multi-purpose gas carriers.

Christine Cabau, Executive Vice President for Operations and Assets at CMA CGM, stated: "A high-performance LNG bunkering supply chain is essential to ensure the availability and reliability of fuels such as LNG, which represents the first step in our industry's decarbonisation journey." The liner operator has in recent years repeatedly ordered LNG-powered vessels as part of its strategy to reduce fleet emissions.