The LNG (liquefied natural gas) dual-fuel RORO vessel Glovis Selene made its maiden call at the Hambantota International Port (HIP) last week, unloading 627 CEUs (Car Equivalent Units) and loading 934 CEUs bound for the Persian Gulf. This marks the second time a dual-fuel LNG vessel has docked at HIP, highlighting the port’s capacity to accommodate next-generation vessels.

The Glovis Selene, measuring 200 metres in length, 38 metres in width, and a draft of 8.6 metres, features 12 vehicle stowage decks with a carrying capacity of 7000 CEU’s. Commissioned in September 2024, this vessel is part of the latest addition to the LNG dual-fuel fleet of South Korean shipping giant Hyundai Glovis, ranked amongst the 3 Largest RORO Shipping Companies in 2023 by Daily Logistics. Apart from being a key RORO volume contributor to Sri Lanka overall, Glovis plays a vital role in sustaining high volumes at HIP.

LNG-powered vessels are increasingly central to sustainable maritime operations, blending environmental responsibility with fuel efficiency and modern resource management. Many LNG carriers now rely on LNG fuel for both propulsion and auxiliary power, aligning with international environmental standards such as the IMO's global sulphur cap. This transition significantly cuts emissions of sulphur oxides (SOx), nitrogen oxides (NOx), and particulate matter (PM), enabling shipowners to meet stringent environmental regulations and support global decarbonization efforts. Additionally, LNG tankers utilise boil-off gas—naturally evaporated LNG during transport—as fuel, efficiently managing this byproduct and minimising its atmospheric release. Equipped with dual-fuel engines, these vessels can run on either LNG or heavy fuel oil (HFO), offering flexibility and improved fuel efficiency. As the use of LNG-fueled tankers expands, they will become more central to sustainable and efficient maritime operations worldwide.

Following its call at HIP, the Glovis Selene will continue on to Port Jebel Ali in Dubai, UAE.