World’s First Ammonia-Fuelled Capesize Bulk Carriers Named in Qingdao
Three bulk carriers described as the world’s first ammonia-fuelled Capesize ships were named on 29 October at CSSC Qingdao Beihai Shipbuilding in Qingdao, a major port city on China’s Yellow Sea coast in Shandong province. The ships belong jointly to Japan’s Mitsui O.S.K. Lines (MOL) and Belgium’s CMB.TECH.
The vessels are named RURI MIRAI, RURI SEKAI and RURI HIKARI. “Ruri” is the Japanese word for lapis lazuli, and the other words mean future, world and light. Each ship is about 209,800 dwt, nearly 300 metres long and 50 metres wide, and carries two ammonia fuel tanks of 3,000 cubic metres each.
MOL will operate the ships on long-term charters. They are suited to long-haul iron ore and coal trades, although no route or bunkering port has been announced. The first ship is expected in early 2027, with the other two following. They will be MOL’s first net-zero-emission vessels under its BLUE ACTION 2035 plan.
Ammonia burns without carbon dioxide, but it is toxic even in small amounts. MOL says it is drawing up safe operating procedures and full safety measures with partners inside and outside the company. Strict rules for fuel handling, leak detection, ventilation and emergency response will be needed on board and at ports.
Crews joining these ships will need specialised training in ammonia fuel systems, gas detection and personal protective equipment. As more ammonia-fuelled ships enter service, officers and engineers with this training are likely to be in demand.
