BSM to manage world's first ammonia bunkering vessel

In June of this year, Japanese trading company ITOCHU Corporation signed a contract for the construction of the world's first ammonia bunkering vessel. Bernhard Schulte Shipmanagement (BSM) is now pleased to announce that it will be providing technical management for this innovative newbuilding. The ship with a capacity of 5,000 cbm is scheduled for delivery in 2027 and will serve the Singapore bunkering hub.

“This is a significant milestone in our ongoing collaboration with ITOCHU,” says Nick Topham, Managing Director of BSM Germany. “Since 2022, BSM Germany has actively participated in ITOCHU working groups to support the development of a global ammonia supply chain infrastructure. We have contributed extensive experience in both carrying ammonia as a cargo and in cryogenic bunkering.”

Alternative fuels such as ammonia play a crucial role in maritime decarbonisation efforts. Tank-to-wake emissions from ammonia-fuelled vessels can reduce CO2-equivalent emissions by up to 90% compared to gas oil engines.

BSM began developing relevant knowledge and skills at an early stage to prepare for managing the first ammonia bunkering vessel, as well as future ammonia-fuelled ships. Operational procedures are well under way to ensure staff are well versed in ammonia-related challenges. Ammonia training courses are already conducted at BSM’s Maritime Training Centres to provide fundamental knowledge and raise awareness of new fuels and technologies. In this context, an ammonia bunkering simulator will be introduced at the MTC in Kochi in Q2 2026, further preparing seafarers for a low-carbon future.