MOL wraps up first truck-to-ship LNG bunkering operation of cruise vessel in Japan

Mitsui OSK Lines (MOL) on Sunday (12 April) said MOL Techno-Trade, in collaboration with Saibu Gas, successfully conducted LNG bunkering operation for the international cruise vessel Luminara, operated by The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection, while she was calling at Nagasaki Port on April 3, 2026. 

This operation marked the first LNG bunkering for a foreign-flagged cruise ship using the truck-to-ship method in Japan. 

In this project, Saibu Gas was responsible for LNG procurement and overall coordination of the bunkering operation, while MOL Techno-Trade handled the commercial aspects of LNG fuel supply, jointly delivering LNG bunkering services for The Ritz-Carlton.

As international environmental regulations continue to tighten, MOL said the number of LNG-fuelled cruise ships is expected to increase. 

“This achievement demonstrates the flexibility of the Truck-to-Ship method, enabling LNG supply without reliance on specific infrastructure, and represents an important step toward expanding LNG bunkering services for international cruise vessels in Japanese ports,” MOL added. 

“Leveraging its expertise in marine fuels and commercial structuring, the MOL Group will continue to work with partners to contribute to maritime decarbonisation and enhance the international competitiveness of Japan’s ports, with safety and reliability as top priorities.” 

Photo credit: Mitsui OSK Lines
Published: 14 April, 2026