First ammonia-fuelled VLAC named: Terra Clove sets sail for zero-carbon
Eastern Pacific’s 93,000 cu m Terra Clove becomes the world’s first ammonia dual-fuel very large ammonia carrier.
Singapore-based Eastern Pacific Shipping (EPS) has unveiled the world’s first ammonia dual-fuel very large ammonia carrier (VLAC), marking a key step in maritime decarbonization. The vessel, named Terra Clove, was christened at HD Hyundai Heavy Industries’ Ulsan shipyard in South Korea and is scheduled for delivery in November after sea trials.
The 93,000-cubic-meter carrier measures 230 meters in length and is designed to transport ammonia as cargo while using it as fuel. It is the first of two such vessels ordered by EPS from HD Hyundai and the first commercial ammonia dual-fuel ship registered under the Singapore flag.
Its propulsion relies on an Everllence B&W 6G60ME-C10.5-LGIA two-stroke engine, developed by Everllence and manufactured under license by HD Hyundai’s Engine & Machinery division. The engine completed factory acceptance testing in April and received type approval in June, enabling the vessel to operate on ammonia or conventional marine fuels.
HD Hyundai Heavy
Safety systems and industry collaboration: Terra Clove
The Terra Clove features four cargo tanks and specialized ammonia fuel handling infrastructure, including leak detection, ventilation, and emissions control systems. These measures address the challenges of using ammonia, a toxic and corrosive substance, as a marine fuel.
The project originated in June 2022 through a partnership between EPS, the Maritime and Port Authority of Singapore (MPA), HD Hyundai Heavy Industries, and classification society ABS. The collaboration focused on vessel design, safety protocols, and regulatory compliance, with particular emphasis on ammonia handling, emissions management, and crew training.
Expanding ammonia capabilities
During the naming ceremony, EPS announced a strategic partnership with the Mærsk Mc-Kinney Møller Center for Zero Carbon Shipping. The agreement will advance research into alternative fuels, dual-fuel propulsion, energy efficiency, and ammonia safety, including studies on methane and ammonia emissions. A joint white paper on VLAC design, operational safety, and crew training is expected later this year.
The launch of Terra Clove aligns with EPS’s broader strategy to expand its ammonia carrier fleet. Earlier this year, the company ordered two additional 90,000-cubic-meter VLACs from China’s Jiangnan Shipyard, scheduled for delivery in early 2028. These vessels will use LPG dual-fuel propulsion, complementing EPS’s existing orders for six 93,000-cubic-meter VLACs from the same yard.
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