Asia Pacific’s First LNG Bunkering for Cruise Ships Marks Milestone in Singapore

On February 24, 2025, TotalEnergies Marine Fuels successfully completed the first LNG bunkering for cruise passenger ships in the Asia Pacific region at the Singapore Cruise Centre (SCC). The operation involved delivering LNG to Silversea’s cruise ship, Silver Nova, setting a new standard for sustainable maritime fueling.

The LNG was supplied via the bunker vessel Brassavola, managed by V.Ships and owned by Mitsui O.S.K. Lines (MOL), showcasing a collaborative effort among key industry players to ensure safety and compliance with industry standards.

SCC CEO, Jacqueline Tan, expressed excitement about the milestone, highlighting the growing trend of dual-fuel LNG-powered vessels in the cruise industry. The successful bunkering operation was made possible through meticulous planning and coordination, guided by the Maritime and Port Authority of Singapore (MPA).

LNG has emerged as a viable transition fuel for the maritime sector, aligning with the International Maritime Organisation’s goal of achieving net-zero carbon emissions by 2050. The use of LNG as a marine fuel represents a practical step towards decarbonization and sustainability in the shipping industry.

Louise Tricoire, TotalEnergies Senior Vice President of Aviation and Marine Fuels, emphasized the significance of partnerships in driving emissions reduction efforts and supporting the industry’s transition to cleaner fuels. TotalEnergies’ commitment to carbon neutrality by 2050 underscores the importance of developing alternative fuels for global shipping.

The introduction of LNG bunkering services at SCC’s HarbourFront Terminal expands Singapore’s sustainability initiatives, complementing existing LNG bunkering services for harbourcraft and commercial vessels. This development positions Singapore Cruise Centre as a hub for LNG-powered passenger ships in the region, contributing to the country’s sustainability goals for the tourism sector.

MPA Director of Marine Services, Chua Yeng Hian, reiterated Singapore’s commitment to upholding bunkering safety standards and supporting the industry’s shift towards a multi-fuel future. The recent call for an Expression of Interest for sea-based LNG reloading and supply of e/bio-methane as marine fuel further underscores Singapore’s proactive approach to meeting the growing demand for LNG in the maritime sector.

Key Growth in LNG Bunkering

In 2024, LNG sales in Singapore witnessed a significant increase from 0.11 million tonnes in 2023 to 0.46 million tonnes in 2024, reflecting the rising demand for LNG bunkering services. With a growing global fleet of LNG dual-fueled vessels and competitive LNG bunker prices, MPA anticipates continued growth in LNG usage in the port.

The successful completion of the first LNG bunkering for cruise ships in the Asia Pacific region signifies a major step towards a more sustainable maritime industry. As Singapore continues to lead in bunkering safety and efficiency, the adoption of LNG as a marine fuel is set to play a pivotal role in achieving emissions reduction targets and advancing the industry’s green transition.