Montfort Maritime Took Delivery of Gas Carrier MFM Nicole
The medium gas carrier entered service on July 21, 2026, following its construction at a shipyard in China.
Updated on Oct. 13, 2026 in Oil and Gas
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Montfort Maritime took delivery of the medium gas carrier MFM Nicole on July 21, 2026. The vessel has since entered service on a time charter to Trafigura.
Why it matters
The vessel utilizes LPG dual-fuel engine technology to significantly reduce gas and particulate emissions during transit. This deployment reflects an industry-wide focus on lowering the environmental impact of international shipping operations.
The MFM Nicole measures 180 metres in length and features a deadweight of 30,000 tonnes. The ship is capable of a design speed of 16 knots and features a minimum cargo design temperature of -50 degrees Celsius.
The players
Montfort Maritime
This international shipping entity is the owner of the newly delivered MFM Nicole.
Trafigura
This is a multinational commodity trading company that operates the MFM Nicole under a time charter.
Jiangsu Yangzi-Mitsui Shipbuilding
This Chinese shipbuilder is responsible for the construction of the MFM Nicole.
Synergy Maritime Gas
This company serves as the technical manager for the MFM Nicole.
Nissen Kaiun
This Japanese ship-owning company concluded commercial agreements with Montfort Maritime in 2024.
The details
Built by Jiangsu Yangzi-Mitsui Shipbuilding, the vessel is registered in Singapore and managed by Synergy Maritime Gas. It features three independent, prismatic IMO Type A tanks and a MAN B&W ME-LGIP LPG dual-fuel main engine that burns either LPG or very low-sulphur fuel oil.
Timeline
Montfort Maritime concluded agreements with Nissen Kaiun in 2024.
The MFM Nicole was handed over to Montfort Maritime on July 21, 2026.
The sister vessel MFM Ophelia is expected for delivery around the turn of 2026-27.
Market Landscape
The deployment of the MFM Nicole signifies a strategic push by Montfort Maritime to integrate modern, emission-reducing propulsion systems into the global shipping fleet. This move positions the company to better meet tightening environmental regulations compared to firms relying on traditional, heavier fuel oils.
For clients and partners in the energy sector, the introduction of this vessel increases the availability of lower-emission transportation capacity. This operational expansion potentially stabilizes regional gas supply chains by offering cleaner logistical options for commodity movement.
The takeaway
The addition of the MFM Nicole highlights the ongoing shift toward dual-fuel vessels that provide operational flexibility while meeting environmental mandates. Companies in the sector should monitor how these investments impact long-term fuel efficiency and regulatory compliance costs.
What happens next
The sister vessel MFM Ophelia is expected to join the company fleet around the turn of 2026-27.
Further reading
Find more updates on industry developments in the Oil and Gas section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Baird Maritime.
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