In a groundbreaking milestone for the maritime industry, Asia Pacific’s first LNG bunkering for cruise passenger ships was successfully completed at the Singapore Cruise Centre (SCC) on 25th February 2025. This historic operation saw TotalEnergies Marine Fuels, V. Ships, and Mitsui O.S.K. Lines coming together as key partners to deliver LNG via the bunker vessel Brassavola to Silversea’s Silver Nova.
Months of meticulous planning and coordination among multiple stakeholders ensured the smooth execution of the LNG fuelling, adhering to stringent industry safety standards. This careful preparation allowed passenger movements and ship operations to continue seamlessly throughout the bunkering process.
Jacqueline Tan, CEO of SCC, expressed excitement over this development, especially considering the increasing number of dual-fuel LNG-powered vessels in the cruise industry. The collaboration with TotalEnergies was crucial in facilitating this pioneering operation, setting the stage for future LNG bunkering activities at the HarbourFront Terminal.
LNG, as a transition fuel, offers a practical solution for the maritime sector’s decarbonization efforts in alignment with the International Maritime Organization’s targets for achieving net-zero carbon emissions by 2050. Louise Tricoire, Senior Vice President of TotalEnergies Marine Fuels, emphasized the importance of industry collaboration in driving lower-emission solutions and accelerating the transition towards sustainable shipping practices.
Mario Moretti, Managing Director of V.Ships Asia, highlighted the detailed planning and professionalism that enabled the successful LNG bunkering operation for Silver Nova. V.Ships’ expertise in LNG bunkering, demonstrated through this achievement, underscores the company’s commitment to supporting customers on their sustainability journeys.
The debut of LNG bunkering at SCC’s HarbourFront Terminal expands Singapore’s existing LNG bunkering services for harbourcraft and commercial vessels, positioning the port to support LNG-powered passenger ships in the region. This significant development aligns with Singapore’s sustainability goals for the tourism sector and reinforces the country’s reputation as a leading bunkering hub.
Chua Yeng Hian, Director of Marine Services at the Maritime and Port Authority of Singapore (MPA), commended the successful completion of the first simultaneous LNG bunkering operation for a cruise vessel in Singapore. This accomplishment reflects the industry’s dedication to upholding bunkering safety and efficiency standards while transitioning towards a multi-fuel future.
The collaboration between TotalEnergies Marine Fuels, V. Ships, Mitsui O.S.K. Lines, and SCC in achieving Asia Pacific’s first LNG bunkering for cruise passenger ships marks a significant step forward in the maritime industry’s sustainability journey. This milestone operation sets a precedent for future LNG bunkering activities and underscores the importance of partnership and innovation in driving environmental progress within the shipping sector.
