Belgian shipowner CMB.TECH announced yesterday (October 9) that the world's first 210,000 DWT ammonia dual-fuel bulk carrier, the "Mineral Europa" (flying the Belgian flag), has been delivered. The vessel is currently preparing to set sail for Australia on its maiden voyage.

CMB.TECH stated that this is the world's first dry bulk carrier powered by ammonia, and the first in a series of vessels it plans to build, with engines that can run on either ammonia or conventional marine fuel. By 2029, the company plans to deliver a total of 21 ammonia-powered vessels, including 18 dry bulk carriers, 1 container ship, and 2 chemical tankers, most of which are expected to be delivered within the next nine months.

The vessel was built by Beihai Shipbuilding and will be operated under a charter agreement with Australian mining company Fortescue. In June of this year, Fortescue agreed to charter up to 12 of CMB.TECH's Newcastlemax vessels, of which up to three will be equipped with dual-fuel ammonia engines, with the remainder in ammonia-ready condition.

CMB.TECH CEO Alexander Saverys said: "The Mineral Europa is the first vessel of its kind, but in the coming months and years, many more will follow." The company also stated that it is building the infrastructure needed to fuel its fleet, including ammonia storage and handling facilities and bunkering barges.

In April of this year, CMB.TECH announced delivery plans for 11 ammonia-powered newbuildings, to be delivered progressively before March 2027. The sister Newcastlemax vessel "Mineral Lietuva" was delivered in June of this year.

CMB.TECH is one of the world's largest listed diversified shipping groups, with an integrated fleet of approximately 235 vessels, covering dry bulk carriers, crude oil tankers, chemical tankers, container ships, and offshore energy vessels.