MITSUI O.S.K. Lines, Ltd. (MOL) has entered into a long-term charter agreement with Inpex Shipping Co. Ltd. for a newly built liquefied natural gas (LNG) carrier, marking a significant milestone in the partnership between the two Japanese energy and maritime giants. The vessel, christened the Harmonic Breeze, is the first LNG carrier to operate under a long-term contract with the Inpex Group. The agreement was facilitated through MOL’s wholly owned subsidiary, MOL Encean Pte. Ltd., and represents a strategic step forward in securing stable energy transport routes.
A formal naming ceremony was recently held at the Hanwha Ocean Co. Ltd. Geoje Shipyard in South Korea to celebrate the vessel’s completion. The event was attended by high-ranking officials, including Inpex Representative Director, President and CEO Takayuki Ueda, and MOL Representative Director and Chairman Takeshi Hashimoto. In the presence of numerous stakeholders, the Harmonic Breeze was officially named and prepared for delivery, where it will eventually contribute to the stable transportation of LNG and support Inpex’s commitment to a reliable global energy supply.
In a move toward more sustainable maritime operations, the Harmonic Breeze is equipped with advanced environmental mitigation technologies designed to achieve superior fuel efficiency. The vessel features an Air Lubrication System, which reduces frictional resistance between the ship’s hull and seawater by injecting compressed air from the bottom of the vessel.
Additionally, it is outfitted with a Shaft Generator that utilizes power from the main engine’s intermediate shaft to generate electricity, allowing for the reduction of diesel generator use during navigation and significantly lowering greenhouse gas emissions.
For MOL, the project aligns with its “Blue Action 2035” management plan, which focuses on driving a portfolio transformation to increase the proportion of stable revenue businesses. By expanding its LNG carrier fleet — already among the largest in the world — and securing long-term charter contracts, the MOL Group aims to strengthen its earnings foundation and reduce its susceptibility to the volatile fluctuations of the shipping market. The company remains committed to providing safe, high-quality services that contribute to reducing environmental impact while deepening its partnership with Inpex.
The Harmonic Breeze boasts impressive specifications, with a length of 294.9 meters and a breadth of 46.4 meters. It utilizes a 174,000-cubic meter membrane-type tank and is powered by a high-efficiency ME-GA main engine. Under the management of MOL Global Ship Management Pte. Ltd., the vessel stands as a testament to the group’s Environmental Vision – Blue Action 2035 Phase 2, addressing key sustainability issues and fostering growth through low-carbon and decarbonization initiatives in the global maritime industry.
