MV Lem Azalea and MV Lem Plumeria are the first vessels in the company’s four-ship alternative-fuel newbuilding programme

Lemissoler Navigation has celebrated the naming of MV Lem Azalea and MV Lem Plumeria, the first two vessels in its four-vessel dual-fuel methanol newbuilding programme.

The naming ceremony took place on 27 July 2026. The two 65,000-dwt dry bulk carriers were built by CSSC Huangpu Wenchong Shipbuilding in cooperation with China Shipbuilding Trading Co. (CSTC).

The vessels originated from Lemissoler’s operational experience and ambition to develop efficient, competitive dry bulk carriers with the flexibility to meet both present requirements and the evolving demands of the maritime energy transition.

Bringing this vision to life was a joint effort. Shanghai Merchant Ship Design and Research Institute (SDARI) translated Lemissoler’s operational requirements and continuous owner input into the vessel design and detailed engineering, while the American Bureau of Shipping (ABS) contributed its classification expertise and technical guidance.

The resulting Lem65ePlus-SDARI design combines dual-fuel methanol capability with advanced hull optimisation, improved propulsion efficiency, energy-saving technologies and modern environmental systems. The design received Approval in Principle from ABS in 2023.

MV Lem Azalea and MV Lem Plumeria are capable of operating on both conventional marine fuel and methanol. This flexibility will allow the vessels to maintain reliable operations while supporting the adoption of lower-carbon fuels as their availability and the required infrastructure develop.

Both vessels will operate under charter to Cargill.

The vessels have been designed around long-term operational efficiency and regulatory readiness, helping them remain competitive and relevant throughout the maritime energy transition. Their addition to the Lemissoler fleet represents an important step towards the company’s objective of achieving net-zero emissions by 2045.

Philippos Philis, Chairman and CEO of Lemissoler Navigation, said: “The naming of MV Lem Azalea and MV Lem Plumeria is a significant milestone for Lemissoler and for everyone who has contributed to this programme.

“MV Lem Azalea and MV Lem Plumeria demonstrate what can be achieved when operational experience, specialist engineering knowledge and close cooperation are brought together.”

The programme builds on Lemissoler’s established approach to fleet development. Drawing on its operational experience, the company defines vessel concepts and performance requirements before working closely with specialist naval architects, shipyards, classification societies and technology providers to develop practical and commercially relevant solutions.

Lemissoler extends its appreciation to SDARI, ABS, CSSC Huangpu Wenchong and CSTC, as well as its financial institutions, equipment suppliers, technology providers, supervision teams and all other partners involved in developing and delivering the programme.

The company also recognises the contribution of its newbuilding, technical, procurement, commercial, legal, finance and operations teams, as well as the captains, engineers and crews who will be responsible for the vessels’ safe and successful operation.

MV Lem Azalea and MV Lem Plumeria are the first two vessels in the four-ship programme. Together, the series represents a significant renewal of Lemissoler’s fleet and a practical investment in the future of lower-emission dry bulk shipping.