Image Credits: Alabama Port Authority Maersk announced the successful bunkering of Tangier Maersk, a dual-fuel alcohol-enabled container vessel, using U.S.-produced corn ethanol. The operation marked the first ship-to-ship commercial ethanol bunkering of a deep-sea container vessel in the United States. The milestone is part of Maersk’s broader efforts to explore multiple potential fuel pathways for the future of shipping. This operation provided valuable insight into the operational, infrastructure, sourcing, and supply chain considerations for using ethanol as a marine fuel. While ethanol benefits from an established production base, existing infrastructure and compatibility with alcohol-enabled vessel technology, scalable future fuel pathways will also depend on fuel availability, regulation and operational readiness across the maritime value chain. Achieving lower-emission logistics requires turning new technologies into practical, scalable solutions. This bunkering operation aboard Tangier Maersk provides valuable real-world experience with alternative fuels in commercial shipping. The insights gained will help drive the development of more sustainable supply chains. Ditlev Blicher, Maersk Regional President for North America, says. The operation builds on previous ethanol trials aboard Laura Maersk and Antonia Maersk. It reflects Maersk’s continued commitment to exploring and advancing credible pathways to drive progress within the shipping industry’s energy transition. Fast Facts Vessel: Tangier Maersk Vessel type: Dual-fuel alcohol-enabled container vessel Fuel used: 100% U.S.-produced corn ethanol Operation: Commercial ethanol bunkering Location: United States Significance: First ship-to-ship commercial ethanol bunkering of a deep-sea container vessel in the United States Purpose: Support Maersk’s commitment to driving progress within the energy transition by exploring multiple future fuel pathways Press Release