ClassNK to class ammonia-fueled tugboat ‘Sakigake’ – World’s first ammonia-fueled vessel

The world’s first ammonia-fueled tugboat, named ‘Sakigake,’ has been launched by Nippon Yusen Kabushiki Kaisha (NYK Line) and IHI Power Systems Co., Ltd., with ClassNK classing the vessel as ammonia-fueled. According to research by NYK, this marks a significant milestone in commercial shipping as of August 23, 2024. The tugboat will be operated by Shin-Nippon Kaiyosha, an NYK Group company, in Tokyo Bay during a three-month demonstration period.

This innovative vessel is part of a Green Innovation Fund Project that began in October 2021, under Japan’s New Energy and Industrial Technology Development Organization (NEDO). The project aims to develop ships equipped with domestically produced ammonia-fueled engines. ClassNK, as a partner in this initiative, plays a crucial role in the safety assessment of the vessel, ensuring it meets stringent standards for operation.

NYK Supplies Fuel Ammonia for World’s First Ammonia-Fueled Vessel

The ‘Sakigake’ follows in the footsteps of its predecessor, an LNG-fueled tugboat of the same name, which was Japan’s first LNG-fueled vessel completed in August 2015. After eight years of service in Tokyo Bay, the original tugboat underwent a conversion at NYK Group’s Keihin Dock Co. Ltd., where its main engine and other components were replaced with ammonia-fueled alternatives. Sea trials using ammonia as fuel were successfully conducted to test the new systems.

As part of its commitment to supporting the transition to zero-emission vessels, ClassNK continues to provide guidance and safety requirements for alternative-fueled ships through its ‘ClassNK Transition Support Services.‘ This ongoing support is vital in advancing the adoption of sustainable fuel options in the maritime industry.