Dual-fuel fleet passes 500 ships on the water as investment exceeds $200 billion

The World Shipping Council (WSC) has reported that over 500 dual-fuel container ships and vehicle carriers are now operating worldwide, marking a significant milestone in the industry's shift towards cleaner fuels. As of September 2026, 503 of these ships are currently on the water, representing a 41% increase from the 358 ships recorded at the same time last year. Additionally, there are 849 ships on order, bringing the total of delivered or ordered ships to 1,352.

These dual-fuel vessels are designed to operate on either conventional marine fuels or alternative fuel types, such as renewable and lower-emission fuels, paving the way for the transition to cleaner shipping methods. Joe Kramek, President & CEO of the WSC, emphasized that the container ship and vehicle carrier industry has committed more than $200 billion to ships capable of running on cleaner fuels.

"The investment is happening, but these ships need commercially competitive alternative fuels to deliver their full potential to reduce emissions," he stated.

The latest data indicates that alternative-fuel-capable ships constitute 65% of container ship orders and 97% of vehicle carrier orders, in terms of deadweight tonnage. This dominance highlights the industry's strong preference for ships that can operate on cleaner fuels. However, there has been a notable rise in orders for conventional-fuelled ships as well, reflecting ongoing uncertainty surrounding global greenhouse gas regulations at the International Maritime Organization (IMO).

The expansion of the overall orderbook has contributed to this trend. Kramek stressed the importance of clear global rules to provide certainty for future investment decisions. "Ships ordered today will be operating for decades. Shipping companies and fuel producers need certainty to make the investments that will shape the future fleet and its fuel supply," he added. The WSC strongly supports a global greenhouse gas measure proposed through the IMO, as outlined in its 2023 GHG Strategy.

A global measure is crucial for closing the cost gap between conventional and renewable or near-zero emission fuels, while also offering clear, consistent rules for the international shipping sector. Without such a framework, shipping could face a growing array of regional emissions regulations, complicating global trade and increasing costs.

Kramek reiterated the need for a global measure with clear rules and strong enforcement to provide companies with confidence in investing in cleaner fuels and the necessary infrastructure to supply them. He expressed trust that IMO member states can unite to establish this framework, noting that each delay exacerbates uncertainty and adds to the transition's challenges and expenses for the global economy.

The updated WSC Dual-Fuel Fleet Dashboard, providing comprehensive information on the subject, is accessible at: https://www.worldshipping.org/dual-fuel-fleet-dashboard.