ABGC DMCC Takes Delivery of Merak, a Dual-Fuel Ammonia-Ready VLGC
ABGC DMCC, a joint venture between Al Seer Marine and BGN, has officially taken delivery of Merak, a dual-fuel very large gas carrier (VLGC) equipped with ammonia-carrying capability.
Delivery of Merak
Built by Hyundai Samho Heavy Industries in South Korea and delivered on August 14, the 86,423 cbm Merak marks the third VLGC delivered to the joint venture. The vessel highlights the ongoing collaboration between Al Seer Marine and BGN in advancing maritime solutions and expanding their dual-fuel fleet capacity.
Following delivery, Merak embarked on its maiden voyage, managed by Fleet Management Singapore, heading to the US Gulf to load its first shipment of propane and butane.
Upcoming Fleet Expansions
The joint venture is also preparing for the arrival of two more carriers under construction from its 2023 order:
- A VLGC from Hyundai Samho Heavy Industries, expected in November 2025.
- An LPG/ammonia carrier from Japan’s Kawasaki Heavy Industries, scheduled for October 2025.
These additions will further strengthen the JV’s position in dual-fuel and alternative fuel shipping.
Executive Insights
Guy Neivens, CEO of Al Seer Marine, emphasized the company’s focus on alternative fuels:
“From the outset, we recognised the significant role of alternative fuel shipping in the transition of the global energy supply. Driven by this insight, we have shaped our strategy around fleet and cargo diversification to meet evolving market demands.”
Neivens highlighted strong financial performance for the first half of 2025, noting a 20.2% increase in operational revenues and an 81.7% rise in gross profit. He added that the delivery of Merak reinforces Al Seer Marine’s position at the forefront of holistic maritime solutions.
Rüya Bayegan, CEO of BGN Group, echoed this sentiment:
“We are pleased to be taking delivery of Merak, the third vessel in our strategic partnership with Al Seer Marine. This state-of-the-art carrier strengthens our dual-fuel fleet and underlines our commitment to industry-wide decarbonization efforts.”
Bayegan further noted that Merak aligns with BGN’s strategic ambitions, particularly in expanding LPG operations and moving into ammonia trading, a key objective in the company’s growth plans.
