Suiso Frontier, first liquefied hydrogen carrier makes visit to Oman

In a historic moment for Oman’s clean energy aspirations, the world’s first liquefied hydrogen carrier, the Suiso Frontier, has made its inaugural visit to Oman. And it was GAC that acted as its agent for its maiden call to Muscat’s Sultan Qaboos Port.

For countries like Oman, which are dedicated to achieving Net Zero by 2050 through decarbonisation efforts, hydrogen emerges as a compelling export option. The vessel’s arrival marked a meaningful step towards establishing feasible hydrogen supply chains in the country. Manufactured by Kawasaki Heavy Industries (KHI), the Suiso Frontier sets a new benchmark for sustainable energy solutions. The name “Suiso”, meaning hydrogen in Japanese, encapsulates the vessel’s groundbreaking purpose.

The Suiso Frontier’s visit underscores the progress made in hydrogen transportation and signifies a substantial stride toward establishing a commercially resilient supply chain using the vessel as the preferred carrier.

As GAC Oman’s Shipping Business Manager Sivasankar Kushal explains, the services provided went beyond the scope of a usual port call and needed to be delivered within a short timeframe – a challenge that the GAC team met to the satisfaction of the Master and owner’s representatives.

The success of the port call was thanks to meticulous coordination between GAC Oman’s shipping and support service departments and the dedication of other colleagues who played key roles. From overseeing pre-arrival necessities to ensuring smooth berthing upon arrival, managing port entry logistics, arranging visitor transportation, and handling departure formalities, GAC Oman has been instrumental in every step of the process.

A distinguished assembly of visitors were at the port to witness the vessel’s arrival, including representatives from the Government of Oman, the media, owners’ representatives and the GAC Oman management team.