A ship-to-ship (STS) ammonia transfer has been successfully executed from the ammonia carrier ‘Berlian Ekuator’ — owned by NYK and time-chartered by Mitsui — to the ammonia carrier ‘Eco Enchanted’, operated by ammonia trader Trammo.
The transfer was conducted in accordance with stringent safety protocols on the high seas off the coast of Ceuta, Spain. While NYK has experience with STS transfers involving crude oil, LNG and LPG, this marks its first operation involving liquefied ammonia.
With the support of Trammo’s longstanding experience and its designated STS specialist provider, International Fender Providers, NYK’s advanced safety management system and STS operational know-how enabled the safe transfer of the entire cargo of liquefied ammonia, approximately 23,000t, to Berlian Ekuator.
Beyond its existing applications in fertilisers and chemicals, ammonia is emerging as a next-generation clean energy source, especially valued for its carbon-free combustion. It is expected to be used in various applications, including marine fuel. With demand expected to increase, the STS method, which is not constrained by port size or onshore equipment, is attracting attention as a flexible supply method compared to conventional land-based cargo handling methods. The success of this operation is considered to mark a significant milestone in developing an international supply network for ammonia.
NYK will build on the insights and experience gained from this successful transfer to further advance next-generation fuels and strengthen safe maritime transportation systems, thereby contributing to the broader goal of achieving a decarbonised society.
Image: The ammonia STS operation from ‘Berlian Ekuator’ (right) to ‘Eco Enchanted’ (source: NYK)
