On August 1, NYK Bulk & Projects Carriers Ltd., a member of the NYK Group, finalized a basic agreement with Kambara Kisen Co., Ltd. for the time charter of a groundbreaking methanol dual-fuel bulk carrier. The vessel, currently under construction at Tsuneishi Shipbuilding Co., Ltd.’s factory in Hiroshima Prefecture, Japan, is scheduled for delivery in the spring of 2025. This will mark the NYK Group’s inaugural foray into operating a methanol-fueled bulk carrier.
The vessel is equipped with a dual-fuel main engine capable of utilizing both methanol and traditional fuel oil. It is designed to predominantly use bio-methanol and e-methanol—fuels produced from hydrogen derived from renewable energy sources and recovered carbon dioxide. This shift to low-carbon methanol aims to achieve a significant reduction in greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions, thereby aligning with the NYK Group’s commitment to environmental sustainability.
With an impressive loading capacity, the vessel will be the largest of its kind in the Ultramax bulker class. It features a versatile hull design, allowing it to transport a diverse range of cargoes including grain and ore.
The NYK Group’s strategic focus is on advancing fleet decarbonization and promoting clean transportation. By integrating low-carbon and decarbonized fuels such as methanol, the company seeks to drive substantial progress in reducing the environmental impact of its operations.
Vessel Particulars:
- Length Overall (LOA): 200 meters
- Breadth: 32.25 meters
- Depth: 19.15 meters
- Deadweight: 65,700 metric tons
- Capacity: 81,500 cubic meters
- Draft: 13.8 meters
The introduction of this methanol-fueled bulk carrier underscores NYK Group’s proactive stance in adopting innovative, eco-friendly technologies to achieve sustainable maritime transportation.
About NYK Group
Established in 1885 in Japan, NYK Line, formally known as Nippon Yusen Kabushiki Kaisha, has emerged as a global leader in the maritime industry over its 135-year history. Operating a diverse fleet, including container ships, bulk carriers, and tankers, NYK serves over 800 locations worldwide, offering a comprehensive suite of shipping services.
NYK Line has earned recognition for its commitment to innovation, sustainability, and safety, navigating the complexities of global logistics with diligence and foresight. This ongoing dedication underscores NYK’s pivotal role in shaping the future of ocean transport and reaffirms its status as a cornerstone of the maritime landscape.
Source NYK Line