Tsuneishi Shipbuilding Delivers World’s First Methanol Dual-Fuel Bulk Carrier

Tsuneishi Shipbuilding Co., Ltd., based in Fukuyama, Hiroshima, has delivered the first-ever methanol dual-fuel bulk carrier in the 65,700 deadweight tonnage (DWT) class. The vessel, part of the TESS66 AEROLINE series, was handed over at the company’s Tsuneishi Factory on May 13.
Designed for improved environmental performance, the ship combines the fuel efficiency and cargo capacity typical of the TESS66 series with a methanol dual-fuel system. The use of methanol enables a reduction in nitrogen oxide (NOx) emissions by up to 80%, sulfur oxides (SOx) by up to 99%, and carbon dioxide (CO2) by up to 10% compared to vessels powered by conventional heavy fuel oil. When operated on green methanol, the ship offers the potential for even lower carbon emissions.
The vessel features a deadweight of 65,700 metric tons and a cargo hold capacity of 81,500 cubic meters, aligning it with top-performing ships in the Ultramax category. The methanol fuel tank is installed in a configuration that prioritizes operational safety and maintains efficient cargo handling. In addition to its alternative fuel system, the ship is equipped with a fuel-efficient main engine and Tsuneishi’s proprietary AEROLINE design, which reduces wind resistance to further enhance fuel performance.
Commenting on the delivery, Tsuneishi Shipbuilding President and CEO, Okumura Sachio, noted that this vessel represents a milestone in the company’s environmental strategy. He stated that the firm will continue building methanol-fuelled vessels at its overseas locations and pursue advancements aimed at supporting more sustainable maritime operations.
The development is in line with the maritime sector’s broader push toward alternative fuels and lower emissions, as the industry adapts to evolving environmental regulations and decarbonization targets.