NYK completes world-first ship-to-ship ammonia bunkering operation

Nippon Yusen Kaisha (NYK), alongside its Japanese partners, has completed what it claims to be the world’s first ship-to-ship (STS) ammonia bunkering operation involving an ammonia-fuelled vessel. This historic event took place on September 17 at Japan Marine United’s Ariake Shipyard and signifies a crucial step towards reducing carbon emissions in the maritime industry.

Operational Details

The ammonia was transferred from the 998 gt ammonia carrier Shoei Maru to an ammonia-fuelled medium gas carrier currently under construction. This new vessel, scheduled for delivery in November and developed under Japan’s ¥2trn ($13.7bn) Green Innovation Fund programme, is set to undergo sea trials using ammonia as fuel.

The partners involved in this operation include NYK, Japan Marine United, Nihon Shipyard, Mitsubishi Gas Chemical, and Kokuka Sangyo. These companies collaborated extensively before the transfer to establish safe operating procedures and work processes for the bunkering of ammonia between vessels. The demonstration was not only a technical achievement but also aimed at gathering practical data on handling ammonia safely during ship-to-ship operations.

Significance of Ammonia as a Fuel

Ammonia is emerging as one of shipping’s leading zero-carbon fuel candidates because it produces no CO2 when combusted. However, its toxicity has historically been a significant hurdle for widespread adoption in the maritime sector. This demonstration operation was conducted to address these challenges and gather crucial insights into the safe handling of ammonia during ship-to-ship transfers.

The partners involved have developed dedicated operating procedures specifically for this purpose. The ammonia carrier Shoei Maru, which is part of NYK’s existing fleet, has already gained operational experience with ammonia through its conversion into what the company described as the world’s first commercial ammonia-fuelled vessel in 2024.

Preparation and Practical Insights

The bunkering operation was conducted following extensive discussions among the companies involved. Safe operating procedures and work processes were established prior to the transfer, ensuring that the operation could be completed safely. Through this initiative, the partners have accumulated practical insights regarding safe fuel supply operations, which are crucial for the broader adoption of ammonia as a maritime fuel.

The demonstration was carried out by NYK, Japan Marine United, Nihon Shipyard, Mitsubishi Gas Chemical and Kokuka Sangyo, highlighting the collaborative effort required to overcome technical and regulatory challenges in implementing this new technology. The success of this operation paves the way for future ship-to-ship ammonia bunkering operations and underscores the commitment of these industry leaders to sustainable maritime practices.

What This Means for Operators

The successful completion of this ship-to-ship ammonia bunkering operation by NYK and its partners marks a significant milestone in the transition towards zero-carbon fuels. For operators, it signifies that practical steps are being taken to implement new technologies and procedures safely. As ammonia becomes more widely adopted, operators can expect increased investment in infrastructure and training for handling this fuel.

This event also highlights the importance of collaborative efforts among industry stakeholders. The success of such initiatives depends on close cooperation between shipowners, shipyards, fuel suppliers, and other relevant parties. Going forward, similar demonstrations will be crucial to address remaining challenges and build confidence in ammonia as a viable marine fuel.

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