HAKATA, JAPAN – July 15, 2025 – KEYS Bunkering West Japan Ltd. (KEYS) has marked a significant milestone in Japan’s maritime decarbonization efforts by successfully completing the nation’s first-ever ship-to-ship (STS) LNG bunkering operation for a cruise vessel. On July 14, the LNG bunkering vessel KEYS Azalea, owned and operated by KEYS, supplied liquefied natural gas (LNG) fuel to the cruise ship ASUKA III at Chuo Wharf in Hakata Port.
This achievement underscores Japan’s growing infrastructure for alternative marine fuels and highlights the expanding role of LNG in the cruise sector—a key advancement in the transition to low-emission shipping.
From Bulk and Car Carriers to Cruise Ships
While KEYS Azalea has previously conducted LNG bunkering operations for car carriers and dry bulk vessels—including those transporting iron ore and coal—this is the first instance of the vessel supporting a cruise ship. The operation also marks Japan’s first ship-to-ship LNG bunkering for a cruise vessel, solidifying KEYS Bunkering’s position as a pioneer in the clean marine fuel space.
About the Vessels Involved
KEYS Azalea, a purpose-built LNG bunkering vessel, was constructed by Mitsubishi Shipbuilding Co., Ltd. and is equipped with the following specifications:
- Length Overall (LOA): 82.4 meters
- Beam: 18.2 meters
- Draft: 4.8 meters
- Gross Tonnage: 4,744 tons
- LNG Loadable Capacity: 3,500 cubic meters
- Propulsion: Dual-fuel engine (LNG or fuel oil)
About ASUKA III
The ASUKA III is Japan’s most advanced cruise ship, delivered to NYK Cruises in April 2025 and officially entering service in July. Built by Meyer Werft, the vessel has a gross tonnage of approximately 51,950 GT and accommodates up to 744 passengers across 385 balcony cabins. Inspired by traditional Japanese aesthetics and hospitality, the ship offers multiple restaurants, open-air spas, and features artwork by renowned artists.
Powered by LNG, ASUKA III is among the cleanest-operating cruise ships in Asia. It features a tri-fuel engine system and energy-saving technologies aligned with NYK’s vision for sustainable and efficient cruise operations. Its inaugural season includes domestic itineraries throughout Japan, positioning the vessel as a flagship for eco-conscious travel.
LNG as a Marine Fuel
Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG) is increasingly recognized as a cleaner alternative to conventional marine fuels, offering significant reductions in sulfur oxides (SOx), nitrogen oxides (NOx), and carbon emissions. LNG bunkering—the process of refueling vessels with LNG—has seen global expansion driven by stricter maritime regulations including IMO 2020, CII, and the EU ETS. With the rise of dual-fuel vessels and wider port infrastructure development, LNG is seen as a practical transitional fuel supporting the maritime industry’s decarbonization goals.
About KEYS Bunkering West Japan Corporation
KEYS Bunkering West Japan Corporation., established on February 2, 2022, is a pioneering coastal shipping company supplying LNG as marine fuel via ship-to-ship transfer. Based in Kitakyushu City, Fukuoka Prefecture, it is the first LNG bunkering business in western Japan, covering areas from Kyushu to the Setouchi region. KEYS provides flexible and stable LNG fueling solutions across multiple vessel types, supporting Japan’s commitment to building a carbon-neutral maritime economy.
The company is led by Representative Takashi Mitsuyoshi and is backed by a strong shareholder structure:
- Kyushu Electric Power Co., Inc. – 40%
- NYK Line – 40%
- ITOCHU ENEX CO., LTD. – 15%
- Saibu Gas Co., Ltd. – 5%