Japan’s Largest Cruise Ship, ASUKA III, Christened in Yokohama

Japan’s ‘largest cruise ship ever’, the liquefied natural gas (LNG)-powered ASUKA III, has officially been named at its home port of Yokohama.

According to NYK Cruises, the owner and operator of the newly built vessel, the 52,265 GT Asuka III, considered to be the first passenger ship built under the supervision of the Japanese flag in 34 years, was christened on July 11 at the Osanbashi International Passenger Terminal in Yokohama.

Just three days later, the newbuild was bunkered with liquefied natural gas at the Chuo Wharf in Hakata port. The operation was performed by the KEYS Azalea, Japan’s inaugural dual-fuel LNG bunkering vessel owned and operated by Fukuoka-headquartered KEYS Bunkering West Japan Ltd. (KEYS).

As informed, given that KEYS Azalea has primarily been supplying car carriers and iron ore and coal bulk carriers, the operation marked the vessel’s first-ever bunkering for a cruise ship in the East Asian nation.

Environmentally Friendly Features

With its LNG propulsion system, Asuka III is expected to significantly reduce greenhouse gas (GHG) and other harmful pollutant emissions, particularly sulfur oxides (SOx) and nitrogen oxides (NOx). The ship’s engines can also run on marine gas oil (MGO) and heavy fuel oil if necessary.

In addition to LNG propulsion, Asuka III is equipped with a dynamic positioning (DP) system and POD propulsion systems, making it the first Japan-flagged cruise ship to have these features. It is also the first Japanese cruise ship capable of utilizing shore power, thanks to its alternative maritime power (AMP) system.

When docked at ports with shore power capabilities, the newbuilding can switch off its engines and receive electricity directly from land-based power sources, further minimizing emissions and environmental impact.

Maiden Voyage and Operations

After its maiden voyage on July 20, Asuka III will join its sister ship, the Asuka II, marking the first time NYK Cruises will operate two cruise vessels simultaneously. The ship is scheduled to visit 30 ports throughout Japan, excluding Yokohama.

The 230-meter-long Asuka III, whose construction began in mid-2023, was delivered to NYK Cruises in April this year. Following refueling with LNG in Singapore during its inaugural bunkering operation, the ship completed the first-ever supply of LNG in Japan in mid-June.

Conclusion

Asuka III represents a significant milestone in Japanese maritime history with its advanced propulsion systems and environmental features. The christening of this LNG-powered cruise ship in Yokohama heralds a new era of sustainable cruising in the region.

With its cutting-edge technology and commitment to reducing emissions, Asuka III sets a high standard for eco-friendly maritime operations, paving the way for cleaner and greener cruise travel in Japan and beyond.

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