The Waltershof Hafen has received official approval to conduct ship-to-ship bunkering of methanol and liquefied natural gas, enabling direct fuel transfers between vessels at sea.
This new capability is available at the Burchardkai and Predöhlkai container terminals, positioning Hamburg as a leading hub for alternative marine fuels.
With this step, the Hamburg Port Authority is advancing its commitment to climate-friendly shipping and supporting the port’s long-term energy transition and climate goals. The move comes as the first methanol-powered and ammonia-ready ships begin entering service worldwide, with growing numbers on order.
The approval follows a comprehensive risk assessment and the development of a detailed safety concept in collaboration with RWE Supply & Trading GmbH and other local stakeholders. This framework ensures that methanol and LNG bunkering can now be carried out safely at Waltershof’s designated terminal locations.
The expansion of bunkering options strengthens Hamburg’s role as a Sustainable Energy Hub, enhancing the port’s attractiveness for global shipping lines and supporting Green Corridor initiatives aimed at decarbonising maritime transport.
Since 2019, Cruise Center Steinwerder has already been equipped for LNG bunkering, and since 2024, for methanol bunkering as well primarily serving the cruise sector through partnerships with MB Energy and Cruise Gate Hamburg.
While the HPA does not act as a bunker supplier, it has established the regulatory and safety framework required for independent companies to deliver bunkering services.
Discussions are already underway with several shipping lines interested in leveraging the new infrastructure.
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