Dorian LPG Linked to $349M Order for Three More VLGCs at Hanwha Ocean

## Dorian LPG Expands Fleet with Major South Korean Newbuilding Order Dorian LPG appears to be deepening its commitment to fleet renewal and expansion, with market sources linking the New York-listed LPG carrier owner to a significant new order at South Korean shipbuilder Hanwha Ocean, according to Splash247. Hanwha Ocean disclosed a three-ship contract this week valued at KRW477.8 billion (approximately $349 million), identifying the customer only as an Oceania-based owner — a description that industry sources have attributed to Dorian LPG. The deal works out to roughly $116 million per vessel, consistent with current market pricing for modern, large-scale LPG tonnage. If confirmed, the order would represent another substantial vote of confidence in the VLGC segment from one of its most prominent operators. Dorian LPG has been an active participant in the newbuilding market in recent years, positioning itself to capitalise on sustained demand for LPG transportation, particularly on long-haul routes linking US export terminals with Asian import markets. VLGCs — Very Large Gas Carriers — are the workhorses of the global LPG trade, typically capable of carrying 80,000 cubic metres or more of liquefied petroleum gas. Demand for the vessel class has been underpinned by robust US LPG export volumes and growing energy consumption across Asia, where LPG is widely used for cooking, heating, and petrochemical feedstock. Hanwha Ocean, formerly known as DSME (Daewoo Shipbuilding & Marine Engineering) prior to its acquisition by the Hanwha Group, has been actively securing gas carrier orders as part of its broader strategy to strengthen its position in the high-value vessel segment. Dorian LPG has not made a public statement confirming its involvement in the contract. The company, which is listed on the New York Stock Exchange and operates one of the world's largest fleets of modern VLGCs, has previously ordered tonnage at leading South Korean yards. The reported order adds to a busy period for VLGC newbuilding activity globally, as owners seek to lock in yard slots amid competitive shipbuilding schedules and position their fleets for the next cycle of LPG trade growth.