Japan’s ‘biggest’ cruise ship fills up with LNG in Yokohama
Japan's ASUKA III Marks Historic LNG Bunkering
Japan’s largest cruise ship, the ASUKA III, has made headlines by completing the country’s first-ever liquefied natural gas (LNG) bunkering operation for a cruise vessel. The significant event took place at the Port of Yokohama from June 10 to June 11, 2023, showcasing Japan’s commitment to sustainable maritime practices. This operation not only highlights advancements in the cruise industry but also aligns with Japan’s broader environmental goals.
First LNG Bunkering Operation in Japan
The ASUKA III, operated by NYK Cruises, was supplied with LNG at the Osanbashi Yokohama International Passenger Terminal. The bunkering process utilized the truck-to-ship method, where LNG is transported from onshore tank trucks to the ship docked at the berth. Over the two-day operation, four tanks of liquefied natural gas were successfully transferred to the 52,200 deadweight tonnage (dwt) cruise ship, marking a milestone in Japan’s maritime history.
Constructed by German shipbuilder Meyer Werft, the ASUKA III is a 230-meter-long and 29.8-meter-wide vessel. Its construction began in the fall of 2023, and it was floated out of the building dock in late January 2023. This ship is notable for being the first passenger vessel built under the supervision of the Japanese flag in three decades. After its delivery in mid-April, the ASUKA III made a stop in Singapore, where it received LNG for the first time before returning to its home port in Yokohama.
Yokohama’s Commitment to Sustainability
The Port of Yokohama has been a pioneer in LNG bunkering since 2015, when it welcomed Japan’s first LNG-fueled tugboat, the Sakigake. This tugboat was instrumental in initiating truck-to-ship bunkering operations in the region. The Sakigake’s successor is now recognized as the world’s first ammonia-fueled vessel intended for commercial use, further emphasizing Yokohama’s role in advancing alternative fuels in maritime operations.
The Japanese government’s vision for Yokohama includes transforming the port into a carbon-neutral hub, contributing to the nation’s ambitious goal of achieving zero emissions by 2050. Maritime industry leaders, including NYK Line and NYK Cruises, have been actively involved in this initiative. In May 2021, NYK Group’s Ecobunker Shipping and Yokohama City signed an agreement to launch LNG bunkering operations, marking a significant step toward a more sustainable future for Japan’s maritime sector.
