ASUKA III Marks Milestone with First LNG Bunkering in Singapore

The ASUKA III, Japan’s largest flagged cruise ship, has achieved a significant milestone by successfully completing its inaugural liquefied natural gas (LNG) bunkering operation at the Singapore Cruise Centre. This advancement highlights a shift towards cleaner marine fuels within the Asia-Pacific cruise sector.

The bunkering was carried out by FueLNG Private Limited, a collaboration between Shell Singapore and Seatrium. This operation marks Shell’s first LNG supply to a cruise ship in the region, emphasizing Singapore’s growing prominence as a hub for sustainable maritime fuel solutions.

The ASUKA III, with a gross tonnage of 52,200 GT and dimensions of 230 meters in length and 30 meters in width, features 385 passenger staterooms. Operated by NYK Cruises, a subsidiary of Nippon Yusen Kabushiki Kaisha, the ship was delivered in April 2025 and is equipped with a dual-fuel propulsion system that allows it to run on both LNG and conventional marine diesel fuels.

Earlier in 2025, the Silversea vessel Silver Nova underwent a similar LNG bunkering at the same terminal, reflecting a wider trend in the industry towards utilizing LNG as a means to lower greenhouse gas emissions from maritime operations.

The Maritime and Port Authority of Singapore (MPA) has played a crucial role in promoting these initiatives, working with industry partners to advance the maritime sector’s shift towards more sustainable energy sources. The successful bunkering operation not only improves ASUKA III’s operational capabilities but also sets the stage for future LNG-powered cruise operations in the region, aligning with global efforts to enhance environmentally responsible maritime practices.

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