World’s First Biomethanol Crew Transfer Vessel

Northern Offshore Services (N-O-S) has completed the world’s first crew transfer vessel (CTV) powered entirely by biomethanol. The vessel, named Transporter, was originally a smaller A-class CTV. It has now been converted and upgraded to run on a methanol engine.
The company plans to use only biomethanol—a renewable and clean energy source made from sustainable biomass— as fuel.
N-O-S is a subsidiary of Northern Offshore Group (NOG), which is part of the Japanese shipping and transportation company NYK Group. It operates crew transfer vessels across the global offshore wind industry.
This conversion project was fully designed and developed by N-O-S. The company said the initiative highlights its commitment to adopting emission-reducing technologies and supporting the offshore wind sector’s move toward cleaner energy.
The company confirmed that it is now operating the world’s first single-fuel biomethanol-powered CTV.
Per N-O-S, the vessel features a seating capacity for 24 people, a length of 83 feet, and a beam of 25 feet. It also offers a 230-square-foot forward deck area and a 98-foot aft deck area, ensuring operational flexibility and comfort for offshore transfers.
David Kristensson, CEO of Northern Offshore Group, stated that by launching this vessel, the company is improving the sustainability of its fleet and setting a new standard for the maritime sector. According to him, biomethanol is a strong and realistic alternative to conventional fuels, and this development puts them at the forefront of green marine innovation.
