Alternative-Fuelled Vessel Orders Surge in September 2026

The latest figures from DNV’s Alternative Fuels Insight (AFI) platform reveal that September 2026 saw the highest monthly total of alternative-fuelled vessel orders since October 2024, with 69 orders recorded last month. This surge marks a significant upturn in the maritime industry’s push towards decarbonisation and alternative fuels.

September's Record-Breaking Orders

According to DNV’s AFI, September 2026 witnessed 69 orders for alternative-fuelled vessels, the highest monthly total since October 2024. This month’s activity brought the third quarter total to 168 vessels, making it the busiest quarter since the third quarter of 2024. Ship & Bunker’s data also confirms this trend, noting that September saw 69 alternative-capable vessel orders, a marked increase from the 52 orders recorded in August.

LNG Dominates the Market

LNG emerged as the dominant fuel choice, with 48 of September’s 69 orders dedicated to LNG-powered vessels. These orders spanned various vessel types, including container ships, car carriers, bulk carriers, and Ro-Ro cargo vessels. Ship & Bunker’s report highlights that LNG vessel orders have reached 200 so far in 2026, a 52% increase from the same period last year. DNV’s data further reinforces this trend, with LNG accounting for the majority of the September orders.

Multi-Fuel Strategy Continues

While LNG remains the primary choice, shipowners are increasingly diversifying their fuel strategies. Ship & Bunker reports that September also saw 12 orders for ethanol/methanol-fuelled bulk carriers and nine orders for LPG-fuelled vessels. This variety reflects an industry that continues to explore multiple fuel pathways rather than settling on a single replacement for conventional marine fuels. DNV’s Jason Stefanatos, Global Decarbonization Director, notes that the mix of fuels and vessel types varies across different segments, indicating differing operating profiles and commercial realities.

Annual Trend Analysis

DNV’s Alternative Fuels Insight platform has recorded a total of 311 alternative-fuelled vessel orders so far in 2026, representing a 53% increase compared to the same period last year. This substantial rise underscores the industry’s commitment to reducing emissions and adopting cleaner technologies. DNV’s figures show that the third quarter of 2026 saw the highest quarterly total since Q3 2024, highlighting a significant acceleration in contracting activity following a relatively slow start to the year.

What This Means for Operators

The surge in alternative-fuelled vessel orders reflects a growing commitment by shipowners to decarbonise their fleets, driven by regulatory pressure and environmental concerns. For operators, this trend necessitates a strategic approach to fuel choices and vessel design. As the industry continues to diversify its fuel pathways, operators will need to carefully consider the economic and operational implications of different fuel types. The continued variability in fuel choices also underscores the importance of flexibility in fleet management, enabling operators to adapt to changing regulations and market conditions.

As DNV’s Jason Stefanatos notes, ordering activity can turn quickly, reflecting the industry’s ongoing uncertainty around fuel costs, infrastructure, and future emissions rules. Therefore, operators must remain agile and informed, leveraging insights from platforms like DNV’s AFI to navigate the complexities of the evolving maritime landscape.

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