EXMAR has announced the delivery of MGC ANTWERPEN, the first oceangoing vessel powered by a dual-fuel ammonia engine.
As a gas shipowner and infrastructure developer, EXMAR is taking a very significant step in low-carbon shipping with the delivery of the newbuild Midsize Gas Carrier named ANTWERPEN.
This milestone marks a decisive step forward in the decarbonisation of shipping, positioning EXMAR and partners at the forefront of sustainable maritime innovation.
Developed in close collaboration with HD Hyundai Heavy Industries, WinGD, Nord Gas Solutions (formerly Wärtsilä Gas Solutions), and Lloyd’s Register, ANTWERPEN is capable of carrying up to 46,000 m³ of ammonia or LPG and trading with close to zero emissions when using low-carbon ammonia fuel. The vessel meets and exceeds current IMO emissions reduction targets, reducing greenhouse gases by up to 90% compared to conventional ships.
Operational safety has been a key focus throughout development, drawing on EXMAR’s four decades of experience transporting ammonia and other liquefied gases. With comprehensive crew training, robust risk assessments, and input from leading partners and the Belgian administration, ammonia propulsion is now realized and regulatory frameworks are established for safe operations.
“Ammonia propulsion is no longer theoretical—we are deploying it. Change comes through execution, not debate. This achievement reflects collective expertise and our commitment to drive sustainable shipping forward,” said Carl-Antoine Saverys, Chief Executive Officer of EXMAR Group.
The newbuild is the first in a series of four ammonia dual-fuel midsize gas carriers, each named after a Belgian city. With the delivery of ANTWERPEN, EXMAR continues its tradition of innovation and its leadership in the maritime transport and handling of ammonia.
