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.
