NYK wraps up its first STS transfer of liquefied ammonia near Spain

Japanese shipping company NYK Line on Wednesday (24 September) completed its first ship-to-ship (STS) ammonia transfer, marking a step forward in the potential application of ammonia as a marine fuel. 

The transfer was executed from ammonia carrier Berlian Ekuator — owned by NYK and time-chartered by Mitsui & Co Ltd — to the ammonia carrier Eco Enchanted, operated by ammonia trader Trammo on 2 September. 

The STS transfer of 23,000 metric tonnes (mt) of ammonia was completed on the high seas off the coast of Ceuta, Spain.

“While NYK has experience with STS transfers involving crude oil, liquefied natural gas (LNG), and liquefied petroleum gas (LPG), this marks our first operation involving liquefied ammonia,” NYK said on its website. 

NYK completed the operation with the support of Trammo and its designated STS specialist provider, International Fender Providers.

Beyond its existing applications in fertilizers and chemicals, the company said ammonia is emerging as a next-generation clean energy source, especially valued for its carbon-free combustion.

“It is expected to be used in various applications, including marine fuel,” it said. 

“With demand expected to increase, the STS method, which is not constrained by port size or onshore equipment, is attracting attention as a flexible supply method compared to conventional land-based cargo handling methods. 

“The success of this operation marks a significant milestone in developing an international supply network for ammonia.”

Photo credit: NYK
Published: 26 September, 2025