Japan has carried out its first ship-to-ship (STS) ammonia bunkering operation, marking a milestone in the country’s development of ammonia as a marine fuel, according to Ship & Bunker.
The transfer took place on September 17 at Japan Marine United’s Ariake Shipyard, with NYK Line confirming the operation in a press release issued the following Friday, Ship & Bunker reports. During the operation, the ammonia carrier Shoei Maru transferred fuel to an ammonia-fuelled medium gas carrier currently being prepared for delivery later this year.
Industry Collaboration Behind the Milestone
The bunkering operation involved a consortium of companies, including NYK Line, Japan Marine United, Nihon Shipyard, Mitsubishi Gas Chemical, and Kokuka Sangyo, as reported by Ship & Bunker. These companies had previously signed contracts in 2023 to construct what is described as the world’s first ammonia-fuelled medium gas carrier equipped with Japanese-made engines.
According to the report, the vessel is scheduled for delivery in November and will use ammonia during its sea trials. Ahead of the bunkering operation, the participating companies worked together to establish transfer procedures, placing particular emphasis on the safe handling of ammonia. Ship & Bunker notes that ammonia differs from conventional marine fuels in that it is toxic, requiring additional safety precautions during bunkering operations.
Broader Context in Ammonia Fuel Adoption
The Japan milestone follows other developments in the ammonia bunkering space. Ship & Bunker reports that maritime transportation company Exmar already operates two ammonia-fuelled vessels, with two additional vessels set to join its fleet. The report also notes that Exmar’s first ammonia-fuelled vessel completed its first commercial voyage using ammonia as marine fuel earlier this year.
Does This Matter to You?
Ammonia is increasingly being explored as an alternative marine fuel as the shipping industry looks toward decarbonization options. This successful STS bunkering operation in Japan demonstrates that safety procedures for handling toxic ammonia fuel during transfer operations are being actively developed and tested by shipyards, engine manufacturers, and shipping companies.
For those monitoring the development of alternative bunker fuels, this operation signals progress in establishing practical, safety-focused protocols for ammonia bunkering—a step that could inform future infrastructure and procedural standards as more ammonia-fuelled vessels enter service. The involvement of multiple established maritime companies in this trial also points to continued industry investment in ammonia as a viable fuel pathway.
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
