Sinanju launches Singapore’s first dual-fuel LNG bunker tanker

Singapore-based Sinanju Tankers has launched the country’s first liquefied natural gas (LNG)-powered conventional bunker tanker Marine Vicky.

The 7,990dwt vessel has been built by Keppel Offshore & Marine (O&M) subsidiary Keppel Nantong Shipyard.

The ship will be deployed to supply marine fuels to ocean-going ships within the limits of Singapore port.

Maritime and Port Authority of Singapore (MPA) CEO Quah Ley Hoon attended the ship naming ceremony.

Hoon said: “This is Singapore’s first bunker tanker to run on LNG and signifies the emphasis that Singapore is placing on developing Singapore into an LNG-bunkering hub, as the industry gains momentum to adopt LNG as a marine fuel.”

The 103m-long and 19m-wide ship features a 55m³ LNG tank and a fuel gas supply system that helps to deliver LNG to the engine.

The tanker has been equipped with pipelines and tanks to help carry multiple grades of marine fuel cargo.

Keppel O&M New Builds executive director Tan Leong Peng said: “We are at the forefront in providing environmental solutions in the marine industry, enabling us to support Sinanju with our dual-fuel vessel solutions.

“This bunker tanker will be the third dual-fuel vessel to be delivered by Keppel O&M. The dual-fuel technology enables more sustainable and economical operations with more efficient fuel consumption, and underlines our ability to consistently provide value-added solutions.”

The tanker has been designed by Singapore-based ship design and consultancy firm SeaTech Solutions International.

By the first quarter of 2020, the bunker will become operational under the two-year time-charter agreement with ExxonMobil Asia Pacific.