On 23 August 2024, NYK and IHI Power Systems, in collaboration with Nippon Kaiji Kyokai (ClassNK), completed the world’s first ammonia-fueled tugboat, Sakigake.
This vessel, designed for commercial use, will be operated by the NYK Group company Shin-Nippon Kaiyosha for tugboat services in Tokyo Bay during a three-month demonstration period.
The Sakigake tugboat is part of a Green Innovation Fund Project initiated in October 2021 by Japan’s New Energy and Industrial Technology Development Organization (NEDO). The project aims to develop vessels powered by domestically produced ammonia-fueled engines.
The original Sakigake, which was Japan’s first LNG-fueled tugboat, was launched in August 2015. After eight years of service in Tokyo Bay, it was retrofitted at the NYK Group’s Keihin Dock, with its main engine and other components replaced by ammonia-fueled ones. The vessel, retaining the name Sakigake, reflects its pioneering status, first with LNG and now with ammonia as fuel.
Under the same Green Innovation Fund Project, NYK is also engaged in the development of an ammonia-fueled medium gas carrier (AFMGC) in partnership with Japan Engine Corporation, Nihon Shipyard, IHI Power Systems, and ClassNK. The delivery of this vessel is anticipated in November 2026.
The NYK Group remains committed to advancing the decarbonization of the maritime industry by promoting and expanding the use of ammonia-fueled vessels, drawing on the expertise gained from this research and development initiative.
According to NYK’s research, the “world’s first” designation is accurate as of 23 August 2024.
