Classification society DNV recently released the third edition of its paper series Alternative fuels for containerships, focused on LNG, methanol and ammonia as alternative bunker fuel options for containerships.

In its updated paper series, DNV examined the different alternative marine fuel options and provided an overview of the most important technical and commercial considerations for the containership sector.

It explored the bunkering technology for LNG, bunkering infrastructure for methanol, and availability and infrastructure of ammonia. 

Building on the foundation laid in the second edition, which focused on the most important aspects of methanol as a fuel, this latest third edition delves deeper  – exploring the technical intricacies and commercial considerations associated with adopting methanol as an alternative fuel for containerships.

Furthermore, it provides an overview of crucial aspects related to ammonia and discusses its potential as an alternative fuel for containerships.

Amongst others, the new edition of the paper looks at the following aspects:

• Technical design considerations for methanol
• Commercial implications of adopting methanol as an alternative fuel
• Ammonia's potential as an alternative fuel
• Availability, infrastructure and ship fuel technology for ammonia
• Major updates based on the latest IMO GHG strategy decisions at the MEPC 80 meeting

Note: The third edition of DNV’s full paper titled Alternative Fuels for Containerships can be found here.

Related: DNV paper outlines bunkering infrastructure of alternative fuels for boxships

Photo credit: DNV
Published: 29 November, 2023

Italian shipbuilder Fincantieri on Tuesday (28 November) said the launch of Mein Schiff Relax, the first of two InTUItion class new concept cruise ships dual-fuel powered (Liquid Natural Gas - LNG and Marine Gas Oil - MGO) that Fincantieri is building for TUI Cruises, a joint venture between TUI AG and Royal Caribbean Cruises, took place at the Monfalcone shipyard. 

The godmother of the ship was Elena Sperti, an employee of the shipyard. 

With approximately 160,000 gross tonnes, these units will constitute the backbone of TUI Cruises’ future fleet. The order is based on a prototype project developed by Fincantieri that enhances the consolidated characteristics of modernity and sustainability of TUI Cruises, a company with one of the most advanced fleets from an ecological point of view. 

Energy efficiency is at the centre of the project, with the dual objective of containing operating consumption and minimising environmental impact, in line with all the most recent regulations on the matter. The ships will be able to use LNG  bunker fuel. The vessels will be future-proof thanks to their ability to also burn low-emission fuels such as bio- or e-LNG: an important step towards climate-neutral cruising.

The units will also be equipped with catalytic converters (compliant with the Euro 6 standard) and with a generative turbine that uses the residual heat of the diesel generators and an electrical shore-power connection from the ground. All this guarantees almost emission-free operation while in port (about 40% of operating time). Finally, the ships will be equipped with an even more efficient innovative waste treatment system capable of transforming organic substances into charcoal through a thermal process.

TUI Cruises is a joint venture between the TUI Group, number one in the world in the tourism sector, and the cruise group Royal Caribbean Cruises Ltd. The company was founded in April 2008, based in Hamburg. Since May 2009 it has been offering cruises for the German-speaking market.

Photo credit: Fincantieri
Published: 29 November, 2023

Shipbuilder Meyer Turku on Monday (27 November) said the LNG-powered cruise ship Icon of the Seas has been delivered to Royal Caribbean.

It said Icon of the Seas was scheduled to depart from the shipyard on 28 of November.

Tim Meyer, CEO of Meyer Turku, said the handover of Icon of the Seas was a significant moment in the shipyard's history. 

"Icon of the Seas is the world's largest, but above all, the world's most advanced cruise ship. Together with Royal Caribbean, we set the bar exceptionally high in terms of design, technology, safety and reducing energy consumption,” he said in a social media post.  

“Icon of the Seas is a revolutionary ship and at the same time a significant step towards the green transition, which is the shipyard's most important competitive advantage. Such a demanding project has only been possible because we cooperate closely within the maritime cluster. In particular, I would like to highlight the finishing expertise of our supply chain. I am extremely proud of the people of Meyer Turku and everyone who has participated in this project.”

Icon of the Seas is Royal Caribbean International’s first LNG-powered cruise vessel, the first ship in Royal Caribbean’s new Icon Class.

Related: First of six multi-fuel engine started on LNG-fuelled cruise ship “Icon of the Seas”

Photo credit: Lavea Media
Published: 28 November, 2023