Orders for alternative-fuel vessels surged to 168 in Q3 2026, marking the highest quarterly total in two years, according to DNV’s Alternative Fuels Insight (AFI) platform. The month of September alone accounted for 69 orders, the most significant monthly figure since October 2024. Overall, 311 alternative-fuel vessels have been ordered in 2026, reflecting a 53% increase compared to the same period last year.
LNG vessels dominated the September orders, with 48 contracts covering a variety of types, including containerships, car carriers, bulk carriers, and ro-ro cargo vessels. Additionally, there were orders for 12 ethanol-fuelled bulk carriers and nine LPG-fuelled vessels.
Jason Stefanatos, Global Decarbonization Director at DNV Maritime, noted that after a slow start to the year, vessel ordering activity rebounded significantly in Q3. This quarter represents the strongest performance for alternative-fuel vessel contracting in two years, with year-to-date orders exceeding last year’s figures.
Stefanatos emphasized the variability in fuel types and vessel categories, which reflects diverse operational needs across the industry. Nevertheless, the overall increase in contracting indicates that shipowners are committed to investing in alternative-fuel capabilities as part of their long-term fleet strategies.
