HGK Shipping has officially named its latest gas tanker, “GAS 96,” during a ceremony in Rotterdam on 9 October 2025. The vessel marks another milestone in sustainable inland waterway transport. Moreover, the vessel is the company’s third gas tanker optimized for shallow-water operations.
Equipped with a diesel-electric, future-fuel-ready propulsion system, GAS 96 will serve routes between Rotterdam, Antwerp, and Cologne under a long-term charter with chemical company LyondellBasell (LYB). The tanker features four cargo tanks with a total volume of 3,256 cubic meters and was developed at HGK Shipping’s Design Center.
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With a length of 110 meters and a width of 15 meters, GAS 96 can safely navigate even when water levels are extremely low. At just 1.20 meters draught, it can carry over 300 tons of cargo. Also, ensurs reliability during challenging conditions. Under ideal conditions, capacity exceeds 2,500 tons.
“The GAS 96 is a clear example of our innovative partnership with HGK Shipping,” said Yarelis Hernandez, Vice President of Global Intermediates & Derivatives Manufacturing at LYB. “Sustainable logistics and supply reliability are essential to our operations and those of our partner Covestro.”
Anke Bestmann, Managing Director of HGK Gas Shipping GmbH, emphasized the vessel’s future-ready design: “The GAS 96 is built for the next generation of cargo and fuel systems. Its intelligent power management reduces fuel use and emissions, aligning with our sustainability goals.”
The vessel was christened by Hernandez alongside Reverend Daniel Odhiambo and representatives from HGK Shipping during the Rotterdam ceremony.
