A perceived growth in the long-term demand for LNG is fuelling the continued interest in LNG carrier newbuildings that will deliver in about five years’ time but shipowners said contracting at today’s high prices will require six-figure rates and long-term contracts.

Speaking at the Capital Link conference held during London International Shipping week, Cool Co chief executive Richard Tyrrell said he believes there are people who got squeezed after ordering and fixing out LNG carrier newbuildings only to find the cost of financing rising and reducing their margins.