Global Maritime Trends

The alternative-fuel race: LNG leads as methanol and ammonia close in

As of 2026, LNG-fuelled ships lead with 600+ vessels in operation and 1,300+ on order, capturing roughly two-thirds of new alternative-fuel orders. Methanol is growing fast in container and car-carrier segments, while ammonia projects are multiplying despite toxicity and corrosion challenges. Nuclear propulsion remains a long-term prospect, held back by regulatory gaps.