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In a bold step toward the decarbonization of global shipping, Fortescue Green Pioneer, the world’s first dual-fueled ammonia-powered vessel, has made its way to London—its inaugural stop on an international mission to accelerate the maritime industry’s shift to green fuels.
Arriving at Canary Wharf on the eve of a high-profile gathering hosted by His Majesty The King’s Sustainable Markets Initiative (SMI) and Fortescue, the vessel’s presence underscores a pivotal moment for the future of sustainable shipping.
Having set sail from its home base in Singapore this January, the 75-meter vessel spent six days at the Port of Southampton, where it underwent rigorous Port State Control inspections—a historic first for an ammonia-fueled ship in the UK. The inspection gave it clearance to continue its tour, further demonstrating the viability of ammonia as a marine fuel.
Fortescue Green Pioneer’s converted engines successfully ran on ammonia during its time in Southampton, offering a tangible glimpse into a zero-emission future.
As global CEOs and dignitaries gathered at Hampton Court Palace for the Terra Carta Roundtable & Exhibition—celebrating five years of the SMI initiative—Fortescue’s Executive Chairman and Founder, Andrew Forrest, led an exclusive tour of the pioneering vessel.
The visit comes at a defining moment in shipping history. The UN International Maritime Organization (IMO) is on the brink of a transformative decision that could redefine the industry. In April 2025, key IMO meetings will determine whether a global carbon levy is implemented—a regulatory shift that would reshape emissions policies for decades.
As part of its mid-term strategy, the IMO has set binding greenhouse gas reduction targets for 2030 and 2040, with the ultimate goal of achieving complete decarbonization by 2050—a level of commitment unmatched by any other industry.
Fortescue is leading the charge, advocating for the swift adoption of zero-emission fuels, such as green ammonia, instead of transitional options like biofuels or LNG. The company is pushing ports worldwide to prepare for ammonia as a marine fuel alternative, accelerating the development of bunker infrastructure, safety measures, and operational protocols to support its large-scale adoption.
“Fortescue Green Pioneer embodies the innovative spirit, courage, and leadership that is taking Fortescue to Real Zero by 2030,” Fortescue Executive Chairman and Founder Andrew Forrest said.
“The International Maritime Organization must call on that same spirit, courage, and leadership to fast-track shipping’s transition to green fuels.
“This will not only deliver a better future for the planet but accelerate a reduction in shipping costs through the widespread adoption and scaling of renewable energy.
“There is no time to waste on so-called transitional fuels that will only serve to slow our progress towards a world no longer reliant on fossil fuels.”
This isn’t just theory—Fortescue Green Pioneer already made history in March 2024, completing the world’s first dual-fueled ammonia load and trial at the Port of Singapore. The vessel also secured a “Gas Fueled Ammonia” notation from the classification society DNV and flag approval from the Singapore Registry of Ships—further cementing ammonia’s role in the future of sustainable shipping.
The IMO Maritime Safety Committee approved interim guidelines for ammonia-fueled vessels in December 2024, clearing the path for global adoption. Now, Fortescue Green Pioneer is sailing from port to port, urging maritime hubs to adapt, invest, and act—because the time for sustainable shipping is now.
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