We are excited to announce the Approval in Principle (AiP) for a groundbreaking new Ultramax bulker design, developed through a collaborative effort between CSSC-SDARI (Shanghai Merchant Ship Design & Research Institute) and RINA. This significant milestone was achieved as part of a joint development project that combined the innovation and expertise of SDARI, RINA, and Almi Marine.
This project stems from SDARI’s latest generation Green Dolphin 64 platform and aims toward designing a fully electrified ship equipped with a VLSFO/LNG/Hydrogen tri-fuel system with the onboard hydrogen reforming unit, addressing the technical and economic challenges associated with liquid hydrogen storage. The LNG and hydrogen produced in the reformer will be co-burned in the generators in controlled proportions. Capturing CO₂ prior to combustion further reduces greenhouse gas emissions, thereby enhancing the ship’s Carbon Intensity Index (CII).
The Approval in Principle for the ship's innovative design was presented by RINA on June 5 at NorShipping 2025. This recognition underscores the vessel's compliance with current safety and performance standards while validating its readiness for the low-carbon transition. Moreover, the optimized hull form not only increases cargo capacity but also significantly improves hydrodynamic performance, reducing fuel consumption across various operating conditions.