In a significant stride towards embracing alternative marine fuels, Singapore has welcomed its inaugural methanol bunkering vessel, a pioneering development that underscores the nation's commitment to sustainable maritime practices. The arrival of the MT Maple, a 4,000 deadweight tonnage (dwt) IMO Type 2 chemical and oil tanker, is a noteworthy milestone in Singapore's pursuit of cleaner and more environment-friendly options for the maritime industry.

The vessel, meticulously constructed in Hiroshima, Japan, by Sasaki Shipbuilding Co., adheres to the stringent licensing requirements for oil product bunker tankers set by the Maritime and Port Authority of Singapore. This strategic move aligns with Singapore's broader vision to position itself as a hub for sustainable shipping solutions. The cargo tanks of the MT Maple boast a specialized coating of inorganic zinc silicates, ensuring optimal performance and compliance with industry standards.

Managed by Stellar Shipmanagement Services Pte, a division of the esteemed Global Energy Group, the MT Maple stands as a testament to the industry's commitment to embracing diverse marine fuels, with a particular emphasis on methanol and biofuels. Loh Hong Leong, the Managing Director of Global Energy Group, expressed confidence in the vessel's versatility, foreseeing its pivotal role in facilitating the transition to low-carbon transitional marine fuels.

This groundbreaking development is not only a technological achievement but also a testament to the collaborative efforts of key industry players. The Vice-President of Bureau Veritas for Marine & Offshore in South Asia and the Pacific, David Barrow, underscored the vessel's importance in catalyzing the adoption of low-carbon alternative fuels within the shipping sector. This sentiment aligns with the overarching global trend towards decarbonization, echoing the industry's commitment to mitigating its environmental impact.

The MT Maple's arrival signals a transformative era for Singapore's bunkering capabilities, particularly in the supply of methanol. By enhancing the ease of delivering methanol to ships docking at the port, the vessel is poised to play a pivotal role in expanding the industry's horizons and meeting the growing demand for sustainable fuel options. As the first-of-its-kind methanol bunkering vessel in Singapore, the MT Maple sets a precedent for future developments in the country's maritime landscape.

The construction of the MT Maple was meticulously overseen by Stellar Shipmanagement Services, entrusted with the crucial task of providing comprehensive technical management and crewing services for Global Energy Group's fleet. The collaboration among key industry players, including Bureau Veritas, Global Energy Group, and Stellar Shipmanagement Services, underscores a concerted effort under the auspices of the Maritime & Port Authority of Singapore (MPA). This collaborative working group reflects a shared commitment to advancing sustainable practices and fostering innovation within the maritime sector.