Carrier library
Conventional Ocean-Going LNG CarrierQ-MaxEducational data
Q-Max LNG carrier
The largest LNG carriers ever built by cargo volume.
Class overview
Q-Max is the maximum-size class sized to the limits of Qatari loading facilities. With up to 266,000 m³ of capacity, a single voyage moves roughly twice the cargo of a conventional carrier, concentrating enormous value in one hull and one port call.
Classification
- Operational role
- Conventional Ocean-Going LNG Carrier
- Containment system
- GTT Mark III Membrane · GTT NO96 Membrane
- Tank geometry
- Hull-conforming prismatic membrane tanks
- Capacity class
- Q-Max — indicative: approximately 260,000–266,000 m³
- Propulsion options
- ME-GI · DFDE / TFDE
- BOG management
- Reliquefaction · BOG as fuel
Key systems
ContainmentFive large membrane tanks with low-BOG insulation
Boil-offReliquefaction rather than gas burning in the main engines
ManoeuvringTwin rudders and high-capacity thrusters for berthing
Operational environment
Very long-haul trades where terminal infrastructure is purpose-matched to the segment.
Safety and operational considerations
- Draft and beam limit the number of terminals able to receive the vessel.
- Manoeuvring in confined water requires detailed planning and tug support.
- Machinery and cargo systems are scaled accordingly, with matching maintenance scope.
Strengths
- Lowest unit transport cost on very long, stable trade lanes
- Fewer port calls for the same annual delivered volume
- Twin-screw redundancy for high schedule reliability
Considerations
- Only a limited number of terminals worldwide can receive the class
- Canal and channel constraints shape routing options
Technical information
- Status
- Educational overview — editorial review required
- Seeded educational summary awaiting editorial and technical review.
- Last reviewed
- 15 September 2026
- Source status
- Sources pending editorial review.
Technical parameters are indicative and may vary by vessel design, generation, shipyard, operator and intended service.