STS methanol and LNG bunkering ops approved at Waltershofer Hafen in Hamburg

The Waltershofer Hafen has now been approved for the bunkering of methanol and liquefied natural gas (LNG) using the ship-to-ship method, according to the Hamburg Port Authority (HPA) on Thursday (28 August). 

This involves the direct transfer of liquid between two ships at sea. Ships can be supplied with these alternative fuels at the central container terminals Burchardkai and Predöhlkai.

“With this step, the HPA is taking another important step towards more climate-friendly shipping and the implementation of energy and climate targets in the Port of Hamburg,” HPA said. 

The first methanol-powered vessels are already in service worldwide, as are the first “ammonia-ready” ships, with more on order in international shipyards. Hamburg has also been called at by methanol-fuelled ships. 

“These new vessel types require the necessary fuelling infrastructure (bunker-ready terminals) to ensure availability of alternative fuels and safeguard the port’s future competitiveness,” HPA aded. 

In close cooperation with RWE Supply & Trading GmbH and other local stakeholders, HPA has carried out a comprehensive risk assessment and developed a detailed safety concept. These joint efforts have now paved the way for official approval of safe bunkering operations at the designated terminal locations.

“The expansion of bunkering options for LNG and Methanol at Waltershof’s container terminals marks an important step in strengthening the attractiveness of the Port of Hamburg,” HPA said.

“By enabling methanol bunkering, the port is consolidating its role as a Sustainable Energy Hub and contributing to the implementation of agreed Green Corridor initiatives.”

Since 2019, Cruise Center Steinwerder has already been equipped for LNG bunkering and, since 2024, for methanol as well – with a focus on the cruise sector. This has been implemented in partnership with MB Energy and Cruise Gate Hamburg.

HPA itself does not act as a bunker supplier. Bunkering operations are carried out by independent companies. The port authority has now created the necessary safety framework for approval of such operations. Discussions with several shipping lines on the use of the new bunkering infrastructure are currently underway.

Photo credit: HHM / Ahmadi
Published: 1 September, 2025