According to DNV’s Alternative Fuels Insight (AFI) platform, May 2026 saw 36 new orders for alternative-fuelled vessels, primarily driven by the demand for LPG/ethane carriers, which accounted for 26 of these orders. Additionally, eight LNG-fuelled vessels were ordered, including six container ships and two car carriers, along with two ethanol-fuelled bulk carriers.
In total, 119 alternative-fuelled vessel orders have been placed in 2026, with LNG vessels making up the largest share at 60. Most of these orders (42) are for container ships, while 12 are for car carriers. LPG/ethane carriers follow with 50 orders, while methanol/ethanol, ammonia, and hydrogen orders remain limited.
By the end of May, the share of alternative-fuelled vessels in total tonnage was lower than in the same period in 2025. Despite varying contracting rates, the industry is advancing towards its transition, with owners making strategic fuel and technology decisions amid changing regulations.
Jason Stefanatos, DNV Maritime’s Global Decarbonization Director, noted a shift in focus towards smaller vessels and increased activity in tanker and bulker segments, indicating that fuel choice is now seen as a portfolio decision rather than a singular bet.
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