NYK Signs Contracts for First Methanol-Powered VLCC

Japanese shipping company NYK has recently inked construction and charter agreements for its inaugural methanol-powered very large crude carrier (VLCC).

The vessel, NYK’s initial VLCC capable of utilizing methanol or traditional fuel oil for propulsion, will be built by Nihon Shipyard and operated under a long-term charter with Idemitsu Tanker.

The 310,000 deadweight ton (dwt) VLCC will feature a dual-fuel methanol main engine and a sizable shaft generator.

Anticipated for delivery in 2028, the 339.5-meter ship will be constructed based on a Malacca Max next-generation environmentally friendly VLCC design crafted by NYK in partnership with Idemitsu Tanker, IINO Kaiun Kaisha, and Nippon Shipyard.

In a collaborative effort starting in January 2024, these Japanese entities embarked on a joint research and development initiative to formulate an eco-conscious VLCC with a goal of reducing greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions by up to 40%.

The unveiling of the design concept for what is being hailed as Japan’s premier Malacca Max-type VLCC capable of running on methanol as an alternative fuel took place in October 2024.