DNV: Alternative-fuelled ship orders rebound in April after early-year lull

Latest data from classification society DNV’s Alternative Fuels Insight (AFI) platform showed a total of 38 new orders for alternative-fuelled vessels were placed in April 2026.

The majority of these orders (20) were for LNG-fuelled vessels. Eight of these were for vessels in the car carrier segment, six for container vessels, four for crude oil tankers, and two for cruise vessels. 

A further 14 orders were placed for LPG/ethane carriers.

The remaining four orders were for ammonia-fuelled vessels in the bulk carrier segment. A total of 83 orders for alternative-fuelled vessels have been ordered in the first four months of 2026.

Jason Stefanatos, Global Decarbonization Director at DNV Maritime, said: “After a slow start to the year, it is encouraging to see an uptick in orders for alternative-fuelled vessels in April. While the broader trend towards LNG remains evident in the data, it is also interesting to see a wider spread among the segments this month, with notable uptake in the tanker and cruise segments.

“The ordering of four ammonia-fuelled vessels in the bulker segment also stands out. While ammonia is still at an early stage as a marine fuel, projects like this – and the operational experience gained from them – are essential for moving the industry from concept to capability and taking practical steps towards wider adoption.” 

Photo credit: DNV
Published: 6 May, 2026