Wärtsilä to supply propulsion to world’s largest methanol-ready cement carrier

When completed, the vessel will be the largest of its type in the world and the first to carry a methanol-ready notation. The order has been placed by NovaAlgoma, a joint venture between the Italian-Swiss Nova Marine Group and the Canadian Algoma Central Corporation. The ship is being constructed at Zhejiang Xinle Shipbuilding and is expected to be launched in late 2026. Wärtsilä secured the order in the fourth quarter of 2024.

“This highly valuable new entry demonstrates the Group’s fleet development strategy and aims to address the significant increase in cement demand,” said Vincenzo Romeo, CEO of Nova Marine Group. “This will be the largest and most eco-friendly cement carrier ever built and is a tangible sign of our strong efforts towards a green fleet. Having Wärtsilä as the technology and solution provider supports our fleet’s effective transition towards decarbonisation.”

The Wärtsilä supply package includes two Wärtsilä 32 engines, one Wärtsilä 25 auxiliary engine, two gearboxes, two controllable pitch propellers, one tunnel thruster, three selective catalytic reduction (SCR) exhaust after-treatment systems, the propulsion control system, two shaft generators (PTO/PTI), and other engine accessory items. The equipment is scheduled for delivery beginning in November 2025.

“Nova and Wärtsilä share a joint commitment to decarbonising shipping operations within the maritime industry,” commented Roger Holm, president of Wärtsilä Marine & executive vice president at Wärtsilä Corporation. “With this integrated package, we are taking a holistic approach to the operation of this innovative vessel. This will allow us to support Nova with its sustainability goals around minimising emissions and ensuring the most efficient energy utilisation during operations.”

The Wärtsilä 32 engine is designed for efficiency and ease of maintenance, combined with long periods of maintenance-free operation. Its fuel flexibility allows for easy upgrades to operate with methanol. The Wärtsilä 25 engine, with its modular design, offers maximum flexibility, while delivering high efficiency and fuel economy to minimise emissions.