Orders for alternative fuel ships in October 2026 increased by 57 percent compared to last year. According to newly released information, shipowners have ordered 53 new alternative fuel shipments, bringing the total orders for the year to 364 shipments.
Increase in Orders in the Second Half of the Year
These figures indicate an increase in contract activity that began in the summer, after a relatively quiet start to 2026. LNG fuel remained the most popular option in October, including 30 new orders, comprising 18 container ships and 12 car carriers. Additionally, 19 orders for LPG ships and four ammonia-fueled car carriers have been added to the DNV database.
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Growth in Demand for LNG Fuel
So far, LNG accounts for approximately 63 percent of total orders, with 230 orders out of a total of 364 alternative fuel ships. Container ships lead this market segment with 134 orders, followed by car carriers with 75 orders. These two types of ships have accounted for over 90 percent of new LNG fuel orders this year.
DNV officials highlighted the importance of established supply chains and growing LNG refueling networks as key advantages of this fuel over competing fuels. Given the relatively high infrastructure of LNG, shipowners view this fuel as a reliable investment option for ships expected to be in service for years.
However, the growing popularity of LNG comes amid ongoing discussions about its long-term environmental benefits, particularly the impact of methane emissions. While LNG can reduce some air pollutants compared to traditional marine fuels, its overall performance depends on factors such as methane leakage and greenhouse gas emissions.
The Future Outlook of the Maritime Industry
Overall, the new figures show that shipowners continue to favor the commercial advantages and established infrastructure of LNG over newer fuel technologies, even as the industry considers long-term carbon reduction options. A decade after LNG sales as a viable fuel for ships began, this fuel continues to attract investment and attention in the maritime industry.
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