Jiangnan Shipyard has delivered IVY COVE, the world's first 93,000 cbm very large ammonia carrier, to Eastern Pacific Shipping.

The vessel is also China's first delivered 93,000 cbm VLAC. It will enter service under charter to Trafigura.

The ship is based on Jiangnan's “PANDA 93A” design, developed from its 93,000 cbm very large gas carrier platform and adapted for ammonia transportation.

Ammonia cargo requires higher tank strength and stricter material control than conventional LPG because of its higher density and corrosive properties. Jiangnan said the vessel's structure, tank arrangement and lightweight design were optimized to meet these requirements.

IVY COVE can carry a full load of ammonia, as well as propane, butane and other LPG cargoes. It can also load two grades of liquefied gas at the same time, giving the vessel commercial flexibility while global ammonia trade is still developing.

The vessel is fitted with an LPG dual-fuel main engine and shaft generator. Jiangnan said the design can cut carbon dioxide emissions by about 20% and sulphur oxide emissions by about 99%, while meeting EEDI Phase III requirements.

The ship is also ammonia-ready, with provisions for future conversion to ammonia fuel.

The delivery marks a key step for Jiangnan in the large gas carrier market and adds a new Chinese-built vessel type for future ammonia transportation.