Singapore, 11 August 2025 – Pacific International Lines (PIL) has achieved a major milestone with the successful completion of its first ship-to-ship (STS) Simultaneous Operations (SIMOPS) involving LNG bunkering and container cargo handling on board its LNG dual-fuel vessel, Kota Ocean, at PSA Singapore Terminal. This landmark operation reinforces Singapore’s position as a global hub for LNG bunkering and sustainable maritime innovation.
This milestone coincides with Singapore’s 60th National Day, making the achievement even more significant for PIL, a proudly Singaporean shipping line that has grown alongside the nation’s maritime sector for nearly six decades.
LNG SIMOPS Conducted on PIL’s Dual-Fuel Vessel Kota Ocean
The operation took place at PSA Singapore’s Brani Terminal, involving PIL’s 8,200 TEU dual-fuel LNG containership, Kota Ocean. It marked the first time that PIL has carried out a simultaneous LNG bunkering and cargo handling operation in Singapore.
SIMOPS offers significant efficiency benefits by enabling vessels to bunker LNG while loading and discharging containers, dramatically reducing turnaround time. For example, bunkering 4,000 cbm of LNG typically requires up to 15 hours if conducted separately. By executing bunkering alongside cargo operations, PIL has optimised both time and fuel efficiency — a critical advantage in today’s high-performance shipping environment.
Key Partners in a Seamless Operation
PIL expressed appreciation to its valued partners in this coordinated success:
- TotalEnergies Marine Fuels – for supplying the LNG bunker
- Maritime and Port Authority of Singapore (MPA) – for regulatory and operational facilitation
- PSA Singapore – for enabling the safe and efficient execution of cargo handling during bunkering
This first SIMOPS was executed safely and professionally by ship and shore crews, who were also treated to a spectacular view of Singapore’s National Day Parade fireworks during the operation — a proud and symbolic reward for their efforts.
Advancing Singapore’s LNG Bunkering Leadership
This achievement reflects Singapore’s growing capabilities and infrastructure as Asia’s leading LNG bunkering hub, and underlines the port’s readiness to support next-generation, alternative-fuel vessels.
By enabling SIMOPS for LNG-fueled vessels, Singapore is paving the way for more efficient, cleaner shipping solutions, reinforcing its leadership role in the maritime energy transition.
Environmental Impact: The Case for LNG as a Marine Fuel
LNG continues to gain traction as a viable transition fuel that helps shipping companies meet immediate decarbonisation goals. Kota Ocean, the vessel at the heart of this operation, is PIL’s sixth LNG dual-fuel ship, delivering significant environmental benefits:
- Up to 23% reduction in greenhouse gas emissions (GHG)
- 99% less sulphur (SOx)
- 85% less nitrogen oxides (NOx)
- Lower particulate matter (PM) emissions
- Improved fuel efficiency for long-haul voyages
Looking Ahead: More LNG Vessels on the Horizon
PIL is accelerating its green fleet transformation. Over the next three years, the company plans to welcome 12 more alternative-fuel vessels, all designed to operate on LNG as marine fuel. These vessels will also be capable of transitioning to bio-methane and synthetic methane as those fuels become commercially viable, creating a pathway to even deeper decarbonisation.
This fleet expansion is central to PIL’s commitment to achieving net zero emissions by 2050. LNG, as a current solution, offers an immediate reduction in maritime emissions, and serves as a bridge to more advanced zero-carbon alternatives in the future.
A Proud Milestone on Singapore’s 60th National Day
This landmark SIMOPS operation comes at a symbolic moment — as Singapore celebrates its 60th year of independence. For PIL, a company born and built in Singapore, the operation reflects both technological advancement and national pride.
“This is a key step in PIL’s decarbonisation journey and a proud moment for our team. As a Singapore-grown company, we’re honoured to achieve this milestone in our home port — with support from trusted partners who share our vision for a sustainable maritime future,” PIL shared.
About Pacific International Lines (PIL)
Pacific International Lines (PIL) is a top-12 global container shipping company and the largest home-grown carrier in Southeast Asia. Established in Singapore in 1967, PIL has grown to operate a fleet of approximately 100 container vessels, offering reliable maritime transport services to over 500 locations in 90+ countries.
PIL provides comprehensive shipping solutions for a wide array of cargo types—including dry, reefer, special, and breakbulk cargo—with a focus on connecting emerging markets in Asia, Africa, the Middle East, Latin America, Oceania, and the Pacific Islands.
Key to PIL’s service offering is a commitment to energy efficiency, digital transformation, and sustainable operations. With active investment in LNG dual-fuel vessels, PIL is playing a crucial role in enabling lower-carbon shipping, supported by Singapore’s world-class bunkering ecosystem.
Guided by a customer-centric and people-first approach, PIL integrates advanced technologies and intermodal logistics to deliver end-to-end supply chain value. The company is also deeply involved in the maritime community and continues to support Singapore’s growth as a leading global maritime and bunkering hub.
Source Pacific International Lines