LPG Dual-Fuel VLGC for Astomos Named “Liberty Pathfinder”

A significant milestone in the shipping industry occurred on September 4, when Kawasaki Heavy Industries Ltd. hosted a naming ceremony for a new very large gas carrier (VLGC) at its Sakaide Works in Kagawa Prefecture. The vessel, named “Liberty Pathfinder,” was built for Astomos Energy Corporation, a global leader in liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) operations. This marks the company’s fifth LPG dual-fuel carrier, following the delivery of “Gas Amethyst” in June.

The ceremony was attended by around 40 industry figures, including Astomos Energy President Mitsuru Yamanaka and NYK President Takaya Soga. Kei Sakaguchi, Astomos Energy’s Director, and General Manager of the Trading and Shipping Department, had the honor of naming the vessel, while his wife ceremonially cut the rope, symbolizing the ship’s readiness to embark on its journey. The name “Liberty Pathfinder” reflects the vessel’s role in leading the way toward decarbonization, with “liberty” symbolizing freedom and independence in energy transportation.

Equipped with a dual-fuel engine that can operate on both heavy oil and LPG, “Liberty Pathfinder” significantly reduces harmful emissions. Using LPG as fuel, the vessel can lower sulfur oxides (SOx) by over 95% and carbon dioxide (CO2) by more than 20% compared to traditional oil-fueled ships. Additionally, the vessel is designed to carry ammonia, a fuel expected to play a crucial role in future decarbonization efforts.

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By partnering with Astomos Energy and advancing its fleet with environmentally conscious ships, NYK continues to contribute to a sustainable, low-carbon supply chain, aligning with the global push for a decarbonized society.