Lloyd’s Register Grants Approval in Principle for KSOE’s Multi-Fuel Newcastlemax Bulk Carrier Design

Lloyd’s Register (LR) has awarded Approval in Principle (AiP) to HD Korea Shipbuilding & Offshore Engineering (KSOE) for a new 210,000 DWT Newcastlemax bulk carrier design. The vessel features fuel flexibility and digital navigation systems aimed at supporting the evolving regulatory and operational needs of global shipping.

The design allows for the use of a range of fuel types, including conventional marine fuels, liquefied natural gas (LNG), ammonia and methanol. This multi-fuel approach provides shipowners with options to align with future emissions regulations and fuel market developments.

KSOE’s concept also includes a refined hull form and integrated smart navigation technologies intended to improve energy efficiency and safety at sea, while helping reduce carbon dioxide emissions.

Nikos Kakalis, Global Bulk Carrier Segment Director at Lloyd’s Register, noted that the AiP reflects a broader strategy to enable innovation within the maritime sector. He said the design represents progress in the advancement of next-generation bulk carrier technologies.

Bong-geo Kim, Head of the Global Shipyard Technical Sales Team at KSOE, said the collaboration with LR supports the development of future-ready bulk carriers and enhances understanding of Newcastlemax design applications for upcoming shipbuilding programmes.