Wärtsilä to Power the World's Largest Methanol-Ready Cement Carrier

Wärtsilä to Power the World’s Largest Methanol-Ready Cement Carrier

Wärtsilä Corporation has announced it will supply a complete propulsion package for the world’s largest methanol-ready cement carrier vessel. The 38,000 DWT ship, ordered by NovaAlgoma, a joint venture between Nova Marine Group and Algoma Central Corporation, will also be the first of its kind with a methanol-ready notation. The vessel is being built at Zhejiang Xinle Shipbuilding Co., Ltd and is expected to launch in late 2026. The order was confirmed in the fourth quarter of 2024.

“This ship represents a major step in our strategy to develop a greener fleet and meet the growing demand for cement transportation,” said Vincenzo Romeo, CEO of Nova Marine Group. “It will be the largest and most eco-friendly cement carrier ever built, and Wärtsilä’s advanced technology will help us move closer to our decarbonisation goals.”

Advanced Propulsion Package

Wärtsilä’s propulsion system for the vessel will include:

Two Wärtsilä 32 main engines
One Wärtsilä 25 auxiliary engine
Two gearboxes
Two controllable pitch propellers
One tunnel thruster
Three selective catalytic reduction (SCR) exhaust systems
A propulsion control system
Two shaft generators (PTO/PTI)
Various engine accessories

The equipment will be delivered starting November 2025.

Supporting Sustainability

Roger Holm, President of Wärtsilä Marine, highlighted the shared commitment to reducing emissions: “This integrated propulsion system takes a holistic approach to efficiency and sustainability. It will help Nova meet its goals of lowering emissions and using energy efficiently.”

Designed for the Future

The Wärtsilä 32 engine is built for long maintenance-free periods and can be upgraded to use methanol fuel. The Wärtsilä 25 auxiliary engine offers flexibility and efficiency, ensuring lower emissions and fuel costs. Wärtsilä’s propulsion systems are designed to maximise efficiency, including gearboxes that reduce propeller speed, allowing for larger propellers that improve propulsion.

This innovative ship is a key step in decarbonising the maritime industry while meeting the increasing global demand for cement transportation.