Malaga, Spain | August 28, 2025 – The Port of Malaga (Puerto de Málaga) has achieved a significant operational breakthrough in its decarbonization journey, successfully coordinating its first-ever double simultaneous LNG bunkering operation.
The event, which took place on Saturday, August 23, 2025, in the city of Malaga, saw two ultra-modern container vessels refueling with Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG) at different terminals within the port, involving two separate bunker suppliers and major global shipping lines.
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Strategic Dual Supply
The operation highlights the port’s expanding infrastructure and its ability to handle complex, multi-vessel alternative fuel logistics. The dual refueling was split across the port’s key terminals with specific vessel pairings:
- MSC Operation at Container Terminal: The LNG-powered container vessel MSC Ghana, under full cargo operations at the Container Terminal, received its LNG supply from Shell’s specialized bunkering vessel, New Frontier 1. This maneuver was performed as a Simultaneous Operation (SIMOPS), allowing the vessel to load and unload containers while bunkering, thereby maximizing time efficiency and reducing port stay duration.
- ZIM Shipping Milestone at Muelle de Levante: In a historic first for the port, the LNG-powered vessel ZIM Moonstone made its inaugural stopover at Malaga specifically for refueling purposes. The vessel docked at the Muelle de Levante and was supplied by Peninsula’s LNG bunkering vessel, Levante LNG.
Strategic Role in the Mediterranean’s Green Shipping Corridor
This double bunkering operation represents a significant leap in the Port of Malaga’s strategy to lead the decarbonization of maritime transport in the Western Mediterranean. By providing high-efficiency access to cleaner fuel alternatives, the port is actively advancing the IMO’s global decarbonization targets and ensuring compliance with the EU’s FuelEU Maritime regulations, which came into effect in 2025.
A Competitive Alternative Hub
Located at the vital crossroads of East–West and North–South global trade routes, Malaga is rapidly evolving from a traditional port of call into a strategic bunkering hub. This successful dual-supply operation demonstrates that Malaga can compete directly with established regional giants like Algeciras and Gibraltar by offering:
- Operational Excellence: The ability to coordinate multiple international suppliers (Shell and Peninsula) simultaneously.
- Efficiency: Proven SIMOPS (Simultaneous Operations) capability, allowing vessels like the MSC Ghana to refuel while continuing cargo operations, significantly reducing turnaround times.
- Infrastructure Maturity: A robust safety and regulatory framework capable of handling the logistical complexities of cryogenic and alternative fuels in a high-traffic environment.
Future-Proofing for Zero-Carbon Fuels
The successful delivery of LNG and bio-LNG is only the beginning. This milestone establishes a scalable blueprint for the port’s transition toward even more sustainable energy carriers. As part of its long-term vision, the Port of Malaga is positioning itself as a gateway for the next generation of marine fuels, including, E-Methanol and Bio-Methanol, Green Ammonia, Green Hydrogen.
By aligning its infrastructure with the evolving needs of shipping giants like MSC and ZIM, Malaga is cementing its role as a key player in the Mediterranean’s green shipping corridors, driving the industry toward a net-zero future.
Industry Outlook
As the global fleet of LNG-powered container vessels continues to grow, ports capable of offering SIMOPS and multi-vessel bunkering will likely capture a larger share of the transshipment market. Malaga’s ability to service two major carriers simultaneously sends a strong signal to the industry regarding its operational readiness for the future of maritime transport.
About the Port of Málaga
The Port of Málaga is a strategic gateway in Southern Europe, linking the Atlantic and Mediterranean shipping corridors and the North–South maritime axis. Its proximity to the Strait of Gibraltar, combined with its diverse commercial portfolio, positions it as a hub of opportunity for local, regional, and international trade.
With more than 7,000 meters of quay, the port handles a wide range of traffic: cruise and cabotage passengers, container and general cargo, Ro-Ro, vehicles, liquid and dry bulk, as well as fishing and recreational nautical activities.
Beyond its commercial operations, the port has become a symbol of successful port–city integration. Its waterfront area attracts over 10 million annual visitors, serving as a vibrant hub for culture, leisure, gastronomy, and commerce, located just minutes from Málaga’s historic city center.
Source: Port of Málaga