Clock ticking on LNG crewing crisis

Speaking at the LNG Shipping & Terminals Conference, senior executives from Seapeak, Orion Global Transport and Pronav Ship Management highlighted the challenges of crewing the LNG fleet, which is expected to grow by 30-40% through newbuilding deliveries.

The executives emphasised cross-training from other liquid cargo sectors as a key solution, though concerns were raised about potentially destabilising other maritime segments. The panel advocated for standardising crew experience requirements through SIGTTO matrix adoption rather than individual charterer specifications.

Pronav managing director Martin Roolvink reported 90-94% officer retention rates, emphasising competitive wages alone are not sufficient - crew welfare, timely relief and strong shore support are crucial for retention.

Seapeak’s Aalam Peshimam highlighted the transferability of skills from liquid cargo vessels to LNG operations, while Orion’s Yannis Papanastasiou stressed the importance of core expertise teams in maintaining training quality.

A poll of attendees revealed crew retention as the primary concern in LNG crew development, with most viewing cadet training as essential despite high attrition rates.

All three panellists called for greater industry collaboration and charterer support in funding extended training periods, warning that without co-ordinated action, crew shortages could constrain LNG fleet growth.​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​