Technology group Wärtsilä is focused on supporting the marine industry’s efforts to decarbonise operations, driving concrete steps forward. The latest order involves supplying a complete propulsion package for a 38,000 DWT methanol-ready cement carrier vessel. When built, this will be the world’s largest vessel of its type and the first with a methanol-ready notation.
The order was placed by NovaAlgoma, a joint venture between Nova Marine Group, based in Italian Switzerland, and the Canadian Algoma Central Corporation. The ship is being constructed at Zhejiang Xinle Shipbuilding Co., Ltd, and is expected to be launched in late 2026. The order was booked by Wärtsilä in Q4 2024.
This new entry demonstrates the Group’s fleet development strategy, addressing the significant increase in cement demand, according to Vincenzo Romeo, CEO of Nova Marine Group. It will be the largest and most eco-friendly cement carrier ever built, signifying strong efforts towards a green fleet. Wärtsilä’s role as the technology and solution provider supports the fleet’s effective transition towards decarbonisation.
Wärtsilä’s scope of supply includes two Wärtsilä 32 engines, one Wärtsilä 25 auxiliary engine, two gearboxes, two controllable pitch propellers, one tunnel thruster, three selective catalytic reduction (SCR) exhaust after-treatment systems, the propulsion control system, two shaft generators (PTO/PTI), and engine accessory items. Delivery is scheduled to commence in November 2025.
The Wärtsilä 32 engine reflects the company’s expertise, designed for efficient and easy maintenance with long maintenance-free operating periods. Its excellent fuel flexibility allows for upgrades to operate with methanol. The Wärtsilä 25 engine’s modularity offers maximised flexibility, efficiency, and fuel economy, minimising emissions.
Wärtsilä’s propulsion solutions also deliver high efficiency, aiding vessels in achieving compliance targets. This is achieved with a gearbox that reduces propeller speed, allowing for a larger propeller diameter to maximise propulsive efficiency.
