Courtesy of Singapore Cruise Centre
The LNG bunkering is part of a broader milestone for SCC, which facilitated the Asia Pacific’s first LNG bunkering for a cruise passenger ship in late February 2025. That operation involved TotalEnergies Marine Fuels supplying LNG to Silversea’s Silver Nova, a cruise ship delivered in 2023. Jacqueline Tan, SCC CEO, stated: “The preparation for this was done meticulously.” She emphasized that the Maritime and Port Authority of Singapore (MPA) guided the process, paving the way for expanded LNG bunkering for cruise vessels in the region.
The increasing use of dual-fuel LNG ships in the cruise industry has driven demand for enhanced LNG bunkering infrastructure at major ports like Singapore, the world’s leading bunkering hub. The MPA has supported this growth through initiatives such as sea-based LNG reloading trials and exploration of alternative fuels like bio-methane. In December 2024, the MPA issued a call for Expressions of Interest to advance these efforts, aiming to encourage broader adoption of LNG as a sustainable fuel source.
The ASUKA III’s bunkering operation supports Singapore’s efforts to promote cleaner energy solutions for maritime transport, aligning with global sustainability goals. The use of LNG reduces emissions compared to traditional fuels, contributing to environmentally friendly cruise operations without impacting fuel consumption patterns or trade dynamics. The successful bunkering underscores Singapore’s growing role as a leader in providing sustainable fuel infrastructure for the maritime sector.
