Oshima Shipbuilding’s Ultramax Bulk Carrier Gains Lloyd’s Register Approval

Oshima Shipbuilding Co., Ltd. has received Approval in Principle (AiP) from Lloyd’s Register (LR) for its innovative multi-fuel-ready Ultramax bulk carrier design. This significant milestone was officially presented at Oshima’s headquarters in Japan on January 23, 2026. The approval is a crucial step as the bulk carrier sector increasingly focuses on achieving lower and zero-carbon operations. It aims to instill confidence among shipowners, financiers, and charterers regarding new design solutions that align with evolving environmental standards.

The approved design encompasses a 64,000 deadweight tonnage (dwt) bulk carrier concept that is engineered to support various future fuel pathways. These include ammonia, methanol, and methane (LNG), along with provisions for onboard carbon capture and storage (OCCS). Oshima’s multi-fuel-ready approach allows shipowners to postpone final fuel decisions, thereby protecting asset value and ensuring operational relevance throughout the vessel’s lifespan.

Comprehensive Technical Review Ensures Safety and Feasibility

Lloyd’s Register conducted an extensive technical review of Oshima’s design, adhering to its ShipRight Risk Based Certification framework. This thorough assessment evaluated the safety, feasibility, and integration of the proposed fuel and carbon capture systems. The review provides independent assurance that the Ultramax bulk carrier concept is ready to advance toward detailed design and potential construction.

Sung-Gu Park, North East Asia President at Lloyd’s Register, emphasized the importance of flexibility in the maritime industry during this period of uncertainty. He noted that shipowners are currently assessing future fuel pathways, infrastructure development, and changing global regulatory expectations. Oshima’s design, which incorporates flexibility for various fuels and onboard carbon capture from the outset, offers a practical solution for shipowners as they strategize their decarbonization efforts.

Oshima Shipbuilding’s multi-fuel-ready Ultramax bulk carrier

Dr. Junichi Man, Managing Director of Oshima Shipbuilding, expressed gratitude for the approval, highlighting the growing importance of flexibility in the face of diversifying fuel options and evolving regulations. He acknowledged the collaborative effort between Oshima’s engineering team and LR’s experts, whose technical insights significantly enhanced the vessel concept. This AiP not only strengthens the longstanding relationship between LR and Oshima Shipbuilding but also underscores the critical role of early-stage assurance in promoting the adoption of next-generation technologies in the maritime sector.

Oshima Shipbuilding’s multi-fuel-ready Ultramax bulk carrier design represents a forward-thinking approach to sustainable shipping. With the backing of Lloyd’s Register, the company is poised to contribute significantly to the industry’s transition toward greener operations.