Q-Max LNG tanker for Fos Cavaou

The Al Mafyar belongs to the 14 strong Q-Max class, the largest existing tankers for transporting LNG. Measuring 365m long by 54m wide, the vessel can carry up to 266,000m³ of LNG.

Terminal owner, Fosmax LNG, says its ability to receive such large tankers is down to its cooperation with the services of the Port of Marseille Fos (GPMM), namely the Harbour Master’s Office and the docking pilots.

Hubert Greiveldinger, CEO, Fosmax LNG, told GreenPort: “By receiving such a big LNG tanker, this proves the economic attractiveness of the Fos Cavaou terminal and promotes our Capmax project – to increase our regasification capacities from 8,25bcm (billion cubic metres)/year today up to 16.5bcm/year in 2020.”

The port’s pilots carried out simulations for Al Mafyar’s approach and berthing in order to ensure it was received in the safest possible conditions.

Located at the entrance of the port, the Fos Cavaou LGN terminal is designed to receive all kinds of vessels. Its Mediterranean and “optimal nautical” location (out of the way of port traffic and low-amplitude tide), enables it to receive imports from major areas of LNG production, including North and West Africa and the Middle East.

Since it became operational in 2010, the terminal has received more than 180 vessels, a quarter of which were Q-Flex (210,000m³).