Hong Kong | 5 November 2025 – Global ship management giant Anglo-Eastern Univan Group (Anglo-Eastern) has dramatically escalated its push for maritime decarbonisation by introducing a cutting-edge methanol bunkering simulator and a suite of specialised training courses. Developed in collaboration with technology partner Wärtsilä, this initiative is set to rapidly equip seafarers with the essential skills for the safe handling and operation of methanol, a key alternative fuel in the industry’s energy transition.
The state-of-the-art system, rolled out in October, provides a vital combination of theoretical and practical training for the safe handling of methanol as a marine fuel. It is meticulously aligned with the International Maritime Organization’s (IMO) stringent guidelines for low-flashpoint fuels, ensuring the highest standards of safety and operational readiness across the fleet.
Building on Dual-Fuel Training Infrastructure
This major development follows Anglo-Eastern’s previous investment in alternative fuel training earlier this year. In February, the company unveiled the world’s first functional LNG and ammonia bunkering station skid at the Anglo-Eastern Maritime Academy (AEMA) in Karjat, Mumbai.
Building on this physical infrastructure, the company has now launched basic and advanced Methanol and bunkering courses. These specialised programmes are designed to ensure Anglo-Eastern seafarers are fully prepared for the complex fuel-handling requirements of vessels powered by methyl/ethyl alcohol (methanol).
“Decarbonisation is not just about adopting new technologies; it’s also about preparing the people who will operate them. By investing in these advanced training facilities, we are ensuring our seafarers and industry partners have the skills to safely and efficiently handle alternative fuels and propulsion systems.” Said, Capt. Aalok Sharma, Group Director of Training at Anglo-Eastern.
Comprehensive, Multi-Tiered Training Modules
The new training initiative is delivered over three intensive days and comprises distinct modules tailored to different levels of operational responsibility and technical familiarity:
- Basic Training: For service personnel on ships using methyl/ethyl alcohol as fuel.
- Advanced Training: For officers and key personnel in service on methanol-fuelled ships.
- Introductory Familiarisation: A module focused specifically on the ME-LGIM engine and the associated fuel gas supply system (FGSS).
Francis Akkara, Principal and Director of the Anglo-Eastern Maritime Training Centres (AEMTC), stressed the necessity of keeping pace with the industry’s rapid evolution: “As the maritime industry accelerates its shift toward alternative fuels, it is essential that our training evolves in tandem. These new offerings reflect Anglo-Eastern’s commitment to equipping seafarers with the operational readiness and safety mindset needed to navigate the complexities of methanol and ammonia fuelled propulsion technologies.”
By building competence in methanol fuel handling and engine operations, Anglo-Eastern is directly supporting the global transition to low-emission shipping, cementing its role as a key partner for shipowners embracing alternative fuels.
Anglo-Eastern’s Dual-Fuel Commitment
The company currently demonstrates a formidable commitment to the alternative fuels market, with 130+ dual-fuel vessels under management and an additional 130 newbuilding projects underway as of October. Their dual-fuel capabilities span a wide range of future fuels, including LNG, LPG, ammonia, methanol, hydrogen, and WAPS (Wind Assisted Propulsion Systems), positioning them at the forefront of the green shipping revolution.
Anglo-Eastern Univan Group (Anglo-Eastern)
Anglo-Eastern Univan Group stands as a definitive global leader in the independent ship management sector, boasting an operational scale and integrated service model that places it at the very forefront of the maritime industry.
The Scale of Operations
The group’s impressive fleet metrics underscore its status as one of the world’s largest and most comprehensive ship managers:
- Full Technical Management: Overseeing the technical operations of 750+ vessels.
- Crew Management: Providing crew for an additional 500 ships.
- Newbuilding & Conversions: Project managing and supervising over 1,000 newbuilding and conversion projects to date, demonstrating deep involvement in the future shape of the global fleet.
This vast and diverse fleet includes virtually every major ship type, from dry bulk carriers and container ships to various classes of tankers and sophisticated dual-fuel vessels.
Integrated Global Network and Training Excellence
Headquartered in Hong Kong, Anglo-Eastern operates a robust global network comprising 30 locations strategically positioned across Asia, Europe, and the Americas. This extensive footprint ensures localized support while maintaining globally consistent standards of excellence.
A cornerstone of the Anglo-Eastern philosophy is its commitment to people and training. The group owns and operates:
- Anglo-Eastern Maritime Training Centres (AEMTCs): Providing advanced, post-sea education and upskilling for thousands of seafarers.
- Anglo-Eastern Maritime Academy (AEMA): A wholly-owned pre-sea institution dedicated to training the next generation of high-calibre maritime officers and engineers.
This focus on proprietary training ensures that its massive workforce is trained to the highest, most consistent standards in the industry—an essential factor in managing the increasingly complex, dual-fuel vessels of the future.
The Human Engine Room
The company’s success is powered by an enormous, dedicated team:
- Seafarers: A dedicated global workforce of over 39,000 seafarers.
- Shore Employees: Over 2,200 shore employees supporting technical, crewing, safety, and commercial functions worldwide.
This commitment to its people is central to its mission: to build trust, drive performance, and shape a better maritime future for all its clients and stakeholders.
Source: Anglo-Eastern