Mitsui O.S.K. Lines (MOL) recently held a naming and launching ceremony for the LNG-fueled ferry Sunflower Pirka, which is currently under construction at Naikai Zosen Corporation. The LNG-fueled tugboat Ishin, operated by MOL Group company Nihon Tug-Boat, assisted with towing operations during the launch of the ferry. MOL is committed to adopting LNG as a low-carbon fuel to help lead the world towards a low-carbon/decarbonized society.
The ferry, named Sunflower Pirka, is expected to be delivered from Naikai Zosen in April 2025 and will operate on the Oarai-Tomakomai route under MOL Sunflower. This new addition will join the Sunflower Kurenai and Sunflower Murasaki, already in service on the Osaka-Beppu route since 2023, as well as the upcoming Sunflower Kamuy, set to start operating on the Oarai-Tomakomai route in early 2025. The MOL Group will soon have a fleet of four LNG-fueled ferries serving East-West routes in Japan.
Overall, MOL’s proactive adoption of LNG as a low-carbon fuel is a significant step towards achieving a more sustainable future. By incorporating LNG technology into their fleet, MOL is contributing to the global effort to reduce carbon emissions and promote environmental sustainability in the maritime industry.
More Stories
Scania Reveals New 13-Liter Marine Engine in Latest Release.
Spain Awards Contract for Maritime Aerial Search-and-Rescue
Advanced ASV Technology Used to Find Plane Missing Since 1968