Japanese shipping company MOL has named a newly built LNG dual-fuel VLCC for Norwegian energy firm Equinor, according to Ship & Bunker.
The vessel, named Tsurugidake, was christened at Dalian Cosco KHI Ship Engineering Co., according to an announcement from MOL cited by Ship & Bunker. The ship marks the fourth LNG dual-fuel VLCC delivered by the MOL Group overall, and the third such vessel delivered specifically to Equinor under a time charter arrangement, following two earlier deliveries to the energy company.
Onboard LNG Capacity and Design Features
According to Ship & Bunker, the Tsurugidake is equipped with an LNG fuel tank exceeding 10,000 cubic meters in capacity. MOL stated that this tank size supports long-distance voyages while offering greater operational flexibility for the vessel.
Beyond its fuel system, the VLCC includes crew welfare features. MOL described a dedicated onboard relaxation area called IKOI, which the company characterized as a “third place” distinct from both living quarters and work areas. Ship & Bunker reported that this space includes a theater room and a swimming pool, which MOL said are intended to support a more comfortable, stress-free environment for seafarers during extended voyages.
Does This Matter to You?
The continued rollout of LNG dual-fuel VLCCs reflects an ongoing shift in fuel options being adopted across the tanker segment, which may be of interest to those tracking bunker demand trends and alternative fuel uptake. Charterers and vessel operators monitoring fleet composition on major crude trade routes may also find the expansion of Equinor’s LNG dual-fuel chartered fleet relevant, as it signals continued commitment to dual-fuel newbuilds among energy majors.
The source material does not provide details on specific trade routes, bunkering ports, or fuel consumption figures for the vessel, so the direct operational or commercial impact for bunker suppliers and traders is not yet clear from this report.
Gulf Bunkering does not provide operational or security guidance. This article is for informational purposes only. Operators should consult flag state authorities, P&I clubs, and relevant advisories for decisions relating to transit planning.
Sources: Ship & Bunker
