“KEYS Azalea” completes 100th LNG bunkering operation in Japan

KEYS Azalea, an LNG bunkering vessel owned and operated by KEYS Bunkering West Japan (KEYS), completed its 100th LNG bunkering operation, according to a joint statement on Monday (26 October). 

NYK Line, KEYS, Itochu Enex, Saibu Gas and Kyushu Electric Power said KEYS Azalea refuelled the bulk carrier SG Dawn, operated by NYK Line. 

Since conducting its first ship-to-ship LNG bunkering operation in western Japan in April 2024, KEYS Azalea has supplied LNG fuel to a wide range of LNG-fuelled vessels, including car carriers, bulk carriers transporting iron ore and coal, and cruise ships.

Assuming all LNG supplied to date has been used as a substitute for the heavy fuel oil (HFO) traditionally used in marine transportation, the CO₂ emissions reduction is estimated to be approximately 75,000 metric tonnes (mt), based on an equivalent energy input comparison.

NYKGroup said it is steadily advancing the development of Japan’s domestic LNG bunkering network through the operation of two dedicated vessels: KEYS Azalea in western Japan and Kaguya in eastern Japan’s Ise Bay. 

Two dedicated LNG bunkering vessels operate in Japan: KEYS Azalea in western Japan and Kaguya in the eastern region’s Ise Bay. 

Kaguya completed its 200th bunkering operation on 30 September, followed by KEYS Azalea reaching its own milestone. The two vessels support the development of LNG bunkering infrastructure in eastern and western Japan.

Photo credit: NYK Line
Published: 27 October, 2026