On September 4, 2024, NYK Line, one of the world’s leading shipping companies, held a naming ceremony at the Sakaide Works of Kawasaki Heavy Industries Ltd. in Kagawa Prefecture, Japan, for the Liberty Pathfinder, a very large gas carrier (VLGC) built for Astomos Energy Corporation, a global leader in liquefied petroleum gas (LPG). The event marked the fifth LPG dual-fuel carrier in Astomos Energy’s fleet, following the delivery of Gas Amethyst in June of the same year.
The ceremony was attended by approximately 40 individuals, including key figures such as Mitsuru Yamanaka, President of Astomos Energy, and Takaya Soga, President of NYK Line. The naming itself was performed by Kei Sakaguchi, Director and General Manager of Astomos Energy’s Trading and Shipping Department. His wife, in accordance with tradition, cut the ceremonial rope, officially christening the vessel as Liberty Pathfinder.
A Symbol for the Future
The name “Liberty Pathfinder” was chosen to symbolize the vessel’s role in leading the transition to a decarbonized future. As a dual-fuel VLGC, the ship represents independence and innovation, essential qualities as the maritime industry moves toward sustainability. Not only is the vessel equipped to run on both LPG and traditional heavy fuel oil, but it also has the capability to transport ammonia, a fuel gaining attention for its potential in a decarbonized energy landscape.
Advanced Environmental Features
The Liberty Pathfinder is powered by a state-of-the-art dual-fuel engine capable of using either heavy oil or LPG. When running on LPG, the vessel can reduce sulfur oxides (SOx) emissions by over 95% and cut carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions by more than 20%, significantly lowering its environmental impact compared to conventional ships that use heavy fuel oil exclusively. Additionally, the carrier is equipped to transport ammonia, positioning it as a forward-looking vessel, ready to meet the demands of a decarbonizing world.
By further solidifying its relationship with Astomos Energy, NYK Line continues to play a critical role in promoting the development of eco-friendly fleets, while contributing to the global shift toward a low-carbon supply chain.
Vessel Specifications
- Length overall: 229.90 meters
- Breadth: 37.20 meters
- Depth: 21.90 meters
- Summer draft: 11.65 meters
- Tank capacity: 86,953 cubic meters
A small amount of heavy oil is used as pilot fuel to ignite LPG fuel.
Supporting Sustainable Growth
The Liberty Pathfinder is a key part of NYK Line’s “Sail GREEN” initiative, which is focused on reducing greenhouse gas emissions and advancing eco-friendly transportation across ocean, land, and terminal operations. This aligns with NYK’s medium-term management plan, “Sail Green, Drive Transformations 2026 — A Passion for Planetary Wellbeing,” which emphasizes environmental, social, and governance (ESG) strategies at its core.
NYK’s growth strategy aims to go “Beyond being a comprehensive logistics company” by developing core and new businesses that contribute to a sustainable future, all while supporting the needs of its global customers.
With the launch of the Liberty Pathfinder, both Astomos Energy and NYK Line reaffirm their dedication to advancing the maritime industry’s green transition, contributing to a more sustainable future for global shipping.
About Astomos Energy Corporation
Astomos Energy Corporation was established in 2006 following the merger of the LPG divisions of Idemitsu Kosan and Mitsubishi Corporation. Today, Astomos stands as one of the world’s largest LPG suppliers, playing a critical role in ensuring stable energy imports for Japan. However, Astomos is also expanding its footprint globally, supplying LPG to regions where demand is high, further solidifying its position as a key player in the global LPG market. The company’s mission remains focused on ensuring safe and continuous energy supply, with an eye toward sustainability and future growth.
About NYK Line
Founded in 1885, NYK Line (Nippon Yusen Kabushiki Kaisha) is one of the world’s leading shipping companies, boasting over 135 years of experience. Operating a diverse fleet that includes container ships, bulk carriers, and tankers, NYK serves over 800 locations globally, providing a comprehensive array of maritime logistics services. Renowned for its commitment to sustainability, innovation, and safety, NYK Line is an industry leader in pioneering green shipping solutions.
Source NYK Group