Belgian gas shipping and infrastructure company EXMAR has achieved a major milestone in maritime decarbonisation with the delivery of MGC ANTWERPEN, the world’s first ocean-going vessel powered by a dual-fuel ammonia engine.
The newbuild midsize gas carrier represents a significant breakthrough in the shipping industry’s transition towards low-carbon fuels and sustainable operations. Developed through a collaboration between EXMAR, HD Hyundai Heavy Industries, WinGD, Nord Gas Solutions, and Lloyd’s Register, the vessel is capable of transporting up to 46,000 cubic metres of ammonia or liquefied petroleum gas (LPG).
According to EXMAR, ANTWERPEN can operate with near-zero emissions when fueled by low-carbon ammonia, reducing greenhouse gas emissions by up to 90% compared to conventional marine fuels. The vessel is designed to meet and exceed current emission reduction targets established by the International Maritime Organization.
The project marks the culmination of years of development focused on both environmental performance and operational safety. EXMAR leveraged more than four decades of experience in ammonia transportation, conducting extensive risk assessments, crew training programmes, and close cooperation with industry partners and Belgian authorities to establish a regulatory framework for ammonia-powered shipping.
“Ammonia propulsion is no longer theoretical—we are deploying it. Change comes through execution, not debate. This achievement reflects collective expertise and our commitment to drive sustainable shipping forward,” said Carl-Antoine Saverys, Chief Executive Officer of EXMAR Group.
ANTWERPEN is the first vessel in a planned series of four ammonia dual-fuel midsize gas carriers being built by EXMAR. Each vessel in the series will be named after a Belgian city, reinforcing the company’s heritage while showcasing its commitment to maritime innovation and sustainability.
The delivery positions EXMAR among the pioneers of ammonia-fueled shipping, a technology widely regarded as one of the most promising pathways for achieving the global shipping industry’s long-term decarbonisation goals. As demand for low-carbon transport solutions continues to grow, the successful deployment of ANTWERPEN could serve as a blueprint for the next generation of environmentally friendly commercial vessels.
