On January 13, Ferry Sunflower launched Japan’s first LNG-fueled ferry, Sunflower Kurenai. It will replace the existing “Sunflower Aibori” and connect Osaka Nanko Sunflower Terminal to Beppu International Tourist Port.
The number of passengers on the new Kurenai has increased from the Aibori’s 710 to 716, the number of passenger cars loaded from 97 to 100, and the number of trucks loaded from 92 to 137, respectively, increasing the gross tonnage by approximately 1.9 times and the interior area by approximately 1.7 times.
In addition, the number of seats in the restaurant was increased by 1.5 times, the area of the large bathroom was doubled, and public spaces such as a three-story atrium were installed.
The two new vessels are fueled by LNG (liquefied natural gas), which reduces SOx emissions to almost zero, NOx emissions by 80%, and CO2 emissions by 25% compared to conventional vessels. Two more vessels are under construction and are scheduled to enter service on the Oarai-Tomakomai route in 2025.
© Source travel watch