LNG-fueled container ships played a crucial role in maintaining the share of alternative fuels in the global shipbuilding orderbook in 2025, despite a significant decline in overall newbuilding activity. Data from DNV indicates that total newbuild orders dropped from 4,405 vessels in 2024 to 2,403 in 2025, yet alternative-fueled ships still made up 38% of total gross tonnage, largely due to the container segment’s resilience.
In 2025, there were 275 alternative-fueled vessel orders, a 47% decrease from the previous year. However, container ship contracts increased to 547, representing about 49% of total gross tonnage and 68% of alternative-fuel orders. Within this segment, LNG accounted for 58% of tonnage, with conventional fuels at 36% and methanol at 6%.
The slowdown reflects a natural correction after years of heightened ordering activity, but the push for alternative fuels remains strong, driven by cargo owners’ emissions reduction goals. Investment in supporting infrastructure continued, with 22 new LNG bunkering vessels ordered, alongside ships designed for methanol and biofuels. Wind-assisted propulsion systems also gained traction, with 24 ships delivered in 2025.
