World’s First Ammonia Dual-Fuel Midsize Gas Carriers Named In South Korea

Belgian shipping company EXMAR has named the world’s first ocean-going ammonia dual-fuel midsize gas carriers during a ceremony held in South Korea.

The vessels, ANTWERPEN and ARLON, were developed under a joint programme with HD Hyundai that began more than three and a half years ago.

The company described the naming as an important step for the project and the industry.

Each vessel has a total capacity of 46,000 cubic metres, including 45,000 cubic metre cargo tanks and two 500 cubic metre deck tanks. The ships were built in close cooperation with the South Korean yard.

EXMAR said the vessels were made 10 metres longer with a slight increase in beam, which allows them to carry more cargo than standard designs.

The ships are designed to run on ammonia as a fuel. According to the company, this can cut carbon dioxide emissions by up to 90% during navigation. Using cargo as fuel is also expected to give more flexibility in operations.

The project involved several partners, including HD Hyundai, HHI-EMD, Wärtsilä Gas Solutions, WinGD and Lloyd’s Register.

The propulsion systems were tested over many operating hours at HD Hyundai’s facilities before the vessels were completed.

EXMAR said safety was a key focus during the design process. The vessels were developed through workshops, risk assessments and technical reviews, with input from seafarers who have experience handling ammonia cargo.

The company also worked with Lloyd’s Register and authorities to help develop guidelines for using ammonia as fuel on gas carriers. This work contributed to progress in the International Maritime Organization’s regulatory framework.

Earlier this year, EXMAR carried out its largest ship-to-ship transfer of ammonia so far, adding to its operational experience.

Reference: Exmar