Report: MAGPIE project demonstrates that safe ammonia bunkering in ports is possible

The Port of Rotterdam has officially confirmed that ship-to-ship ammonia bunkering is viable within active port environments, following successful trials conducted under the EU-funded MAGPIE project in 2025. This milestone marks a critical shift for the maritime industry as it seeks viable zero-carbon alternatives to traditional heavy fuel oils. By establishing rigorous safety protocols for handling ammonia, the project provides a blueprint for future bunkering operations, ensuring that the transition to green energy remains secure for global merchant shipping fleets.

The operational success of the MAGPIE project aligns with the stringent safety requirements outlined in the International Code of Safety for Ships using Gases or other Low-flashpoint Fuels (IGF Code) and SOLAS Chapter II-1, Regulation 57. Compliance departments must now evaluate how these bunkering procedures integrate with existing MARPOL Annex VI emission standards and classification society guidelines for toxic cargo handling. As ammonia is highly toxic and corrosive, adherence to these international regulatory frameworks is mandatory to mitigate risks during transfer operations and ensure vessel structural integrity remains uncompromised.

Chief engineers and second engineers will be the primary ranks tasked with overseeing these new bunkering procedures. These officers must familiarize themselves with updated emergency shutdown protocols and specialized personal protective equipment requirements for ammonia handling. As the industry moves toward adopting ammonia-fueled propulsion, engine room teams must prioritize specialized training in leak detection and rapid containment strategies to maintain safety standards and ensure operational compliance during future port calls.