Image credit: Nova Marine Group

Nova Marine Group has formalized a significant agreement for the construction of an unprecedented vessel. The contract was signed by the Group’s founder and Chairman, Mr. Giovanni Romeo, alongside COO Salvatore Pugliese, and the Chairman of Xinle Shipbuilding, as announced in a recent Nova Marine release.The new vessel, a 38,000 DWT cement carrier, will be the largest of its kind upon completion. Scheduled for launch by the end of 2026, it is already secured under a long-term contract with one of Nova Marine’s longstanding clients.

In addition to its impressive size, the vessel will be the first cement carrier equipped with a methanol dual-fuel system, capable of operating on both traditional fuel and methanol. This innovation follows Nova Marine’s existing dual-fuel fleet, which currently utilizes LNG. The ship will also achieve zero emissions while docked, thanks to its cold ironing capabilities.Further enhancing its eco-friendly profile, the vessel will be outfitted with an experimental air lubricating system. This system injects air under the ship’s flat bottom through micro air cavities, significantly reducing sea water resistance. This leads to improved efficiency, reduced fuel consumption, and lower emissions. The vessel, classified by RINA, will be manned by a crew of 21, cementing its status as the flagship of Nova Marine’s fleet.