A LARGE tanker has moored in Weymouth Bay.

Kmarin Emerald has anchored just off the coast of Weymouth.

The vessel, which was built in 2007 and is classed as an LNG carrier, arrived in Weymouth Bay on Saturday, January 29 at 8.27am.

An LNG carrier is a term for a tanker ship with temperature-controlled tanks, which are intended to transport Liquefied Natural Gas.

Dorset Echo: Kmarin Emerald in the far distance in Weymouth BayKmarin Emerald in the far distance in Weymouth Bay

The ship is currently sailing under the flag of the United Kingdom.

Prior to its arrival on the south Dorset coastline, the tanker was last recorded as being moored at London Thamesport near Southend-on-Sea, on Wednesday (January 26) before departing at 4.25am.

Prior to anchoring in London Thamesport, the tanker was moored at Freeport, in Maine, USA, on January 10 before departing for the UK at 8.42pm.

It is not known the ship's next destination or how long it will be moored in Weymouth Bay.