Seatrium Limited has taken a significant step forward in maritime decarbonization with the announcement that its 25,000m³ ammonia bunker vessel, the SMDT 25000VX-NH3, has received Approval in Principle (AiP) from the American Bureau of Shipping (ABS). This development marks a major milestone in the company’s efforts to pioneer next-generation zero-carbon marine fuels and support the growing demand for sustainable shipping solutions.
Approval in Principle marks key milestone in Seatrium’s push to develop scalable ammonia bunkering solutions for zero-carbon maritime operations.
The vessel is specifically designed to facilitate ammonia bunkering—refueling ships with ammonia as a clean alternative fuel—and can also function optionally as an ammonia carrier. This dual-mode capability is part of Seatrium’s broader strategy to lead the global transition towards zero-emissions shipping.
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A New Standard for Ammonia Bunkering Vessels
The SMDT 25000VX-NH3 is engineered for versatility and endurance. It features a total liquefied ammonia cargo capacity of 25,000 cubic meters, stored using IMO Type C containment systems. The design, developed in-house by Seatrium Marine & Deepwater Technology, ensures compatibility with current and future ammonia fuel supply chain needs.
The vessel is built with a deadweight tonnage of 19,500 metric tons and is capable of sailing at a service speed of 14 knots. Impressively, it is designed for an operational endurance of up to 55 days without the need for refueling—offering long-range capability that enhances logistical flexibility for ammonia fuel distribution hubs and shipping corridors.
Safety, Efficiency, and Innovation at the Core
Safety is paramount in handling ammonia, a toxic but carbon-free fuel. The vessel incorporates advanced safety architecture focused on mitigating open-deck leaks, fully aligned with the latest standards from the International Maritime Organization (IMO), the International Gas Carrier (IGC) Code, and ABS classification requirements. These measures demonstrate Seatrium’s proactive approach to regulatory compliance and crew safety.
In terms of propulsion, the vessel is equipped with dual-fuel generators capable of switching seamlessly between ammonia and diesel fuel. This dual-fuel capability supports both operational resilience and the gradual shift toward ammonia as a primary energy source.
ABS Approval Validates Technical Readiness
The Approval in Principle granted by ABS validates the vessel’s design concept, confirming its technical feasibility and regulatory compliance. This approval paves the way for further engineering development and construction, accelerating Seatrium’s timeline for delivering a commercially viable ammonia bunkering solution.
ABS’s endorsement is a strong signal to the maritime sector that ammonia is gaining traction as a next-generation bunker fuel. It also underscores Seatrium’s credibility as a technology innovator in green maritime infrastructure.
Seatrium’s Role in the Global Energy Transition
This development places Seatrium at the forefront of the maritime energy transition. With decades of expertise in offshore and marine engineering, the company is now actively shaping the emerging ecosystem for low- and zero-carbon marine fuels. The ammonia bunker vessel is a cornerstone of Seatrium’s New Energies business segment, which is focused on decarbonizing the maritime industry and supporting the shift to sustainable energy.
By building critical fuel infrastructure for zero-carbon vessels, Seatrium is enabling shipowners, operators, and ports to prepare for upcoming emissions regulations and align with international climate targets, including those set by the IMO for 2030 and 2050.
About the American Bureau of Shipping (ABS)
ABS is a globally recognized classification society and technical advisor for the marine and offshore industries. With a focus on safety, performance, and environmental stewardship, ABS supports the development and deployment of advanced maritime technologies and sustainable practices. Its mission includes enhancing the safety of life and property at sea, and safeguarding the natural environment through robust standards and rigorous evaluation processes.
ABS is at the forefront of maritime sustainability, actively contributing to areas such as decarbonization, ballast water management, and energy efficiency improvements across fleets worldwide.
About Seatrium Limited
Headquartered in Singapore, Seatrium Limited is a global provider of innovative engineering solutions to the offshore, marine, and energy sectors. With over 60 years of experience, the company offers expertise across multiple business segments, including oil and gas newbuilds, offshore renewables, repairs and upgrades, and new energies.
Through strategic investments in research, technology, and sustainable engineering, Seatrium continues to play a key role in supporting the global maritime industry’s transition to a low-carbon future. Its network of shipyards, innovation centers, and global operations allows it to deliver cutting-edge solutions to some of the world’s largest energy firms and shipping companies.
What’s Next
With the AiP secured for its 25,000m³ ammonia bunker vessel, Seatrium is not only demonstrating its leadership in green ship design but also laying the groundwork for scalable ammonia bunkering infrastructure. This move aligns perfectly with the industry’s urgent push toward cleaner energy and is another concrete step toward a ZeroCarbon maritime future.
Source Seatrium Limited | ABS