AMS Barging christens 9,000 m³ methanol-ready tanker Felicitas as fleet continues to grow

Dutch shipping company AMS Barging has officially named its newest diesel-electric tanker, Felicitas, at Rotterdam's Noordereiland. The vessel was christened by the daughters of co-owner Igor Jansen, Liv and Julie. This 135-meter tanker was designed by RensenDriessen Shipbuilding and built by Den Breejen Shipyard. With a cargo capacity of roughly 9,000 cubic meters, Felicitas includes 12 cargo tanks, a dual piping system, two mass flow meters, a nitrogen generator, a bunker boom, and a pumping capacity of 1,800 cubic meters per hour. The design incorporates provisions for future modifications to accommodate methanol fuel.

The addition of Felicitas brings AMS Barging's fleet to 17 vessels. Earlier this year, the company also christened Fortuna, a sister ship to Felicitas.

The shipping industry is adapting to evolving fuel demand due to geopolitical changes and the transition to cleaner energy sources. AMS Barging is responding by developing vessels capable of carrying conventional fuels while also being prepared for potential shifts in fuel demand. Methanol as a marine fuel is gaining traction, with over 150 methanol-capable vessels currently operating globally, and more than 290 on order.

Methanol can substantially reduce emissions of harmful pollutants like sulphur oxides, nitrogen oxides, and particulate matter compared to traditional marine fuels. It can also cut lifecycle greenhouse gas emissions by over 90%.

As demand for efficient tanker capacity grows, AMS Barging emphasizes the importance of methanol-capable vessels in their fleet. According to Commercial Director Martin van Veen, "No one knows exactly what the fuel mix will look like in ten years' time. We see methanol as one of the important alternatives." The company is investing in vessels that can operate efficiently now while also adapting to future developments.

Felicitas has recently completed its maiden commercial voyage and is now operating on the spot market. The vessel's diesel-electric propulsion and Z-drives improve maneuverability, and its engines comply with Stage V emissions standards. AMS Barging has reported fuel savings of around 25% with similar systems compared to conventionally powered vessels.

By building newbuild vessels, AMS Barging can incorporate the latest technologies and tailor each vessel to current market needs, thereby investing in both additional capacity and the future of their fleet.