Latest figures from classification society DNV’s Alternative Fuels Insights (AFI) platform reveal that March was a “slow month” for the ordering of alternative-fuelled vessels.

DNV, has shared the latest data from the March AFI platform, which show that five new orders for alternative-fuelled vessels were registered last month.

Two LNG-fuelled car carriers, two LPG gas carriers, and one methanol-fuelled PSV were ordered last month. LNG-fuelled vessels continue to dominate in the first quarter of 2026 with 32 orders, followed by LPG with 10 orders.

Jason Stefanatos, global decarbonization Director DNV, said: “It was a slow month, with five new orders for alternative-fuelled vessels registered, including two LNG-fuelled car carriers, two LPG gas carriers, and one methanol-fuelled PSV.

“Taking a wider view, a total of 45 vessels with alternative-fuel capability were ordered in the first quarter of 2026, representing a year-on-year decline of 37%. Ordering activity was dominated by LNG-fuelled container vessels (32), continuing a trend that became well established in 2025.

“At the other end of the pipeline, we have also seen the delivery of 60 vessels with alternative-fuel capability in the first quarter of 2026, including 27 LNG-fuelled and 17 methanol-fuelled vessels. This reflects the strong ordering activity seen three to four years ago, with this expected to continue throughout the year as more projects reach completion.”

The Alternative Fuels Insight platform provides the maritime industry with an open platform for evaluating the uptake of alternative fuels and technologies.