Amsterdam, May 2025 – In a landmark achievement for sustainable maritime fueling, the Port of Amsterdam has hosted its first-ever ship-to-ship (STS) methanol bunkering operation. The event took place last week at the TMA Logistics terminal in the Amerikahaven, where the state-of-the-art offshore installation vessel Boreas, operated by Van Oord, received 500 tonnes of ISCC-certified green methanol from the bunker vessel Chicago, owned by Unibarge.
The bunkering marks a historic moment not just for the port, but for the broader maritime industry, as it demonstrates the feasibility and safety of methanol as a cleaner alternative marine fuel.
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A Next-Generation Vessel
The Boreas is the largest offshore installation vessel of its kind and a flagship for green innovation in offshore construction. Delivered earlier this year, the vessel made its maiden arrival at the Port of Amsterdam in March through the IJmuiden sea lock. This recent bunkering operation confirms the vessel’s capability to operate on sustainable fuels and sets a new standard for green shipping in offshore wind construction.
To commemorate this milestone, the captain of the Boreas was presented with a special plaque during the vessel’s stay in port.
Jaap de Jong, Project Director at Van Oord, emphasized the vessel’s role in sustainable energy “We look forward to deploying this impressive vessel for our offshore wind projects and further advancing the transition to renewable energy.”
The Boreas is not only methanol-capable but is also fitted with cutting-edge emission control systems that drastically reduce NOₓ emissions. Its 6,000 kWh battery system further decreases fuel use and greenhouse gas emissions, pushing the envelope on clean marine technology.
Leading the Transition to Sustainable Fuels
The green methanol bunkered during this operation was supplied by OCI HyFuels and delivered by Unibarge’s Chicago, a licensed bunker vessel. The methanol is produced from sustainable feedstocks, including waste and residual materials, making it significantly lower in CO₂, nitrogen oxide, and particulate matter emissions compared to conventional marine fuels.
Henri van der Weide, Clean Shipping Advisor at the Port of Amsterdam, hailed the operation as a clear sign of progress “We are pleased that Van Oord has chosen methanol. This makes them an important pioneer in the use of sustainable fuels in shipping.”
Becoming a Multi Fuel Port
This milestone aligns with the Port of Amsterdam’s ambitious Clean Shipping Vision, which aims to establish the port as a Multi Fuel Port. The port authority is actively developing safety protocols to support the bunkering of various alternative fuels such as LNG, hydrogen, ammonia, and now, methanol.
Henri van der Weide further explained “We do this in collaboration with the Clean Marine Fuels Working Group, part of the International Association of Ports and Harbors (IAPH). Together with this group, we have developed a safety checklist for methanol bunkering operations.”
Setting Safety Standards for the Future
The safe handling and delivery of alternative fuels is a cornerstone of the port’s sustainability goals. The port uses rigorous criteria to determine where and how alternative fuels can be bunkered. Methanol bunkering, while new, follows a framework already used for LNG and hydrogen.
Henri van der Weide outlined the critical steps taken:
- Licensed Operator: Only certified operators like Unibarge, meeting IAPH standards, are allowed.
- Bunkering Checklist: A dedicated safety checklist for methanol has been developed with the IAPH.
- Designated Berth: The port authority ensures that bunkering occurs at a secure and appropriate location.
By integrating these measures, the Port of Amsterdam is creating a safe, scalable model for alternative fuel use in commercial shipping.
“LNG bunkering has become business as usual for us,” Henri noted. “Now, we’re seeing hydrogen and methanol follow suit. These are no longer future technologies – they’re happening now.”
Unibarge Celebrates Historic Green Methanol Delivery in Port of Amsterdam
Unibarge, recognized for its role in sustainable marine fuel supply and transport, expressed pride in being part of this landmark operation.
“Chicago delivered 500 tonnes of green methanol to Van Oord’s Boreas during the first-ever ship-to-ship bunkering in the Port of Amsterdam,” the company stated. “We are thrilled to support the maritime industry’s shift to cleaner fuels and contribute to a more sustainable future.“
About Van Oord
Van Oord is a leading international marine contractor specializing in dredging, infrastructure, and offshore energy projects. With over 155 years of experience, Van Oord has established itself as an innovative partner for clients worldwide, creating the infrastructure for the world of tomorrow.
As a Dutch family-owned company, Van Oord is characterized by visible leadership, a long-term vision, and a strong financial foundation. The company makes substantial investments in people and equipment, ensuring the continuity and growth of its business. Van Oord’s team comprises dedicated, entrepreneurial professionals who are passionate about water and technology. Through cooperation, openness, and honesty, they build mutual trust and respect, achieving the best possible results.
What sets Van Oord apart is its marine ingenuity. This core value defines what the company does, how it operates, and what makes it unique. As a passionate, smart, and resourceful international marine contractor, Van Oord believes in the power of teamwork and is committed to being One Team, worldwide.
About UniBarge
UniBarge operates a modern fleet, offering comprehensive transport solutions for mineral oils to leading companies in the oil and chemicals industry. With a commitment to reliability, safety, and sustainability, UniBarge provides 24/7 services tailored to meet customer demands efficiently.
The company’s extensive sailing network covers key European waterways, including the ARA ports (Amsterdam, Rotterdam, Flushing, Antwerp), the Port of Hamburg, the German canals, and the Rhine River up to Switzerland. By focusing on innovative and sustainable operations, UniBarge continues to set industry standards in inland bunkering and fuel transportation.
About the Port of Amsterdam
The Port of Amsterdam is the fourth-largest seaport in Europe and plays a vital role in international trade and logistics. Strategically located in the North Sea Canal area, the port is a gateway for goods entering and leaving Europe and is home to more than 2,000 companies. With a strong commitment to sustainability and innovation, the port aims to be one of the cleanest and most efficient in the world. Its Clean Shipping Vision is central to this goal, promoting the adoption of alternative fuels and zero-emission solutions throughout the maritime sector.
Source Port of Amsterdam | Van Oord | Unibarge