KEYS Azalea Conducts First LNG Bunkering for Cruise Ship in Japan

On July 14, a significant milestone was achieved in Japan’s maritime industry as KEYS Azalea, a liquefied natural gas (LNG) bunkering vessel owned and operated by KEYS Bunkering West Japan, successfully bunkered LNG by ship-to-ship method for the cruise ship ASUKA III. This operation marked the first-ever LNG bunkering for a cruise ship in Japan.

The bunkering operation took place at Chuo Wharf in Hakata port for the ASUKA III, a cruise ship equipped with engines that use three types of fuel, including LNG, and operated by NYK. KEYS Azalea, which has previously bunkered for car carriers and bulk carriers transporting iron ore and coal, added this achievement to its list of successful operations.

KEYS Bunkering West Japan, a joint venture established by Kyushu Electric Power, NYK Line, Itochu Enex, and Saibu Gas, took delivery of the KEYS Azalea vessel in April 2024. This vessel is Japan’s first LNG bunkering vessel equipped with a dual-fuel engine, making it a pioneer in the country’s LNG bunkering industry.

The vessel, measuring 82.4 meters in length and 18.2 meters in beam, has a LNG loadable capacity of 3,500 cubic meters. With its advanced capabilities, KEYS Azalea is well-positioned to support the growing demand for LNG bunkering services in Japan.

Looking ahead, KEYS Bunkering West Japan reaffirmed its commitment to providing safe and reliable LNG bunkering services. By contributing to the development of a carbon-neutral society and fostering the LNG bunkering business in Japan, the company aims to play a vital role in the transition towards cleaner energy sources in the maritime sector.