Lemissoler names first two dual-fuel methanol bulk carriers
Lemissoler Navigation of Cyprus has celebrated the naming of MV Lem Azalea and MV Lem Plumeria, the first two vessels in its four-vessel dual-fuel methanol newbuilding programme.
The naming ceremony took place on 27 July 2026. The two 65,000-dwt dry bulk carriers were built by CSSC Huangpu WenchongShipbuilding in cooperation with China Shipbuilding Trading Co. (CSTC).
The vessels originated from Lemissoler's operational experience and ambition to develop efficient, competitive dry bulk carriers with the flexibility to meet both present requirements and the evolving demands of the maritime energy transition.
Bringing this vision to life was a joint effort. Shanghai Merchant Ship Design and Research Institute (SDARI) translated Lemissoler'soperational requirements and continuous owner input into the vessel design and detailed engineering, while the American Bureau of Shipping (ABS) contributed its classification expertise and technical guidance.
The resulting Lem65ePlus-SDARI design combines dual-fuel methanol capability with advanced hull optimisation, improved propulsion efficiency, energy-saving technologies and modern environmental systems. The design received Approval in Principle from ABS in 2023.
MV Lem Azalea and MV Lem Plumeria are capable of operating on both conventional marine fuel and methanol. This flexibility will allow the vessels to maintain reliable operations while supporting the adoption of lower-carbon fuels as their availability and the required infrastructure develop. Both vessels will operate under charter to Cargill.
The vessels have been designed around long-term operational efficiency and regulatory readiness, helping them remain competitive and relevant throughout the maritime energy transition. Their addition to the Lemissoler fleet represents an important step towards the company's objective of achieving net-zero emissions by 2045.
Philippos Philis, Chairman and CEO of Lemissoler Navigation, said: "The naming of MV Lem Azalea and MV Lem Plumeria is a significant milestone for Lemissoler and for everyone who has contributed to this programme.
"The concept began with a clear operational objective from our team: to develop efficient dry bulk vessels with the flexibility to meet both present requirements and the transition towards alternative fuels.
"Bringing that concept to life required close collaboration. SDARI translated our operational requirements and continuous input into the vessel design and detailed engineering, while ABS provided valuable classification expertise and technical guidance. Together with the shipbuilding capabilities of CSSC Huangpu Wenchong and CSTC, and the commitment of our technical and commercial partners, this collaboration turned our ambition into working vessels.
"MV Lem Azalea and MV Lem Plumeria demonstrate what can be achieved when operational experience, specialist engineering knowledge and close cooperation are brought together."