A Gazprom delegation headed by Vyacheslav Mikhalenko, Member of the Management Committee, Head of Department, took part in the keel-laying ceremony for Chaika LNG, the first passenger ship in Russia to be powered by liquefied natural gas (LNG). The event was held at the shipyard of Zelenodolsk Plant named after A.M. Gorky in Zelenodolsk, Republic of Tatarstan.

The Chaika LNG leisure and sightseeing boat (motor ship) is intended for passenger voyages, including via tourist routes. The vessel, which can accommodate at least 170 people, is expected to be launched as early as this year.

The use of natural gas in river and maritime transport is a new segment of the NGV market. Today, LNG is the most promising motor fuel for waterborne transport and the most affordable alternative to bunker fuel oil and diesel fuel.