Pacific International Lines (PIL) has reached another milestone in its sustainability journey with the maiden call of its new “O”-Class vessel, Kota Oasis, at Ghana’s Port of Tema on June 12. The 8,200 TEU vessel is the first of its class and is part of PIL’s South West Africa Service (SWS) route, which connects major ports in Asia and West Africa. The arrival of the Kota Oasis represents not only an operational achievement but also a step forward in the company’s vision to modernise its fleet with environmentally friendly technologies.
To mark the historic occasion, PIL’s Ghana team organised a celebration on board the vessel, attended by over 40 invited guests. The attendees included key customers, shipping partners, and representatives from the Ghana Ports and Harbours Authority (GPHA) and terminal operator Meridian Port Services Ltd (MPS). During the event, guests had the opportunity to tour the state-of-the-art ship and learn more about its advanced green capabilities. In a keynote address, MPS Chief Operating Officer Curtiss Dakpogan praised PIL for its consistent commitment to Ghana’s maritime industry and for investing in sustainable shipping solutions that align with global efforts to decarbonise the sector.
Dual-fuel technology
The Kota Oasis stands out for its dual-fuel technology, which allows it to run on both liquefied natural gas (LNG) and bio-methane. This flexibility supports the transition to cleaner energy sources while maintaining operational efficiency. The vessel is equipped with Win-GD’s XDF engines integrated with Intelligent Control by Exhaust Recycling (iCER) technology, a system designed to optimise combustion and significantly reduce methane slip one of the key environmental challenges in LNG-powered shipping. These innovations demonstrate PIL’s dedication to reducing its carbon footprint while maintaining reliable trade operations across continents.
Following its stop at the Port of Tema, the Kota Oasis is scheduled to continue its journey along the SWS route, making calls in Togo, Nigeria, and Côte d’Ivoire before returning to Asia. The service plays a crucial role in strengthening trade flows between West Africa and Asia, enabling the movement of a wide range of goods including manufactured products, raw materials, and agricultural exports. By deploying a vessel of this calibre on the route, PIL not only enhances capacity but also reinforces its strategic commitment to building a more sustainable and resilient shipping network.
PIL describes the Kota Oasis as a symbol of its long-term investment in greener maritime transport. The launch of this vessel reflects broader industry trends as shipping companies worldwide embrace new technologies and alternative fuels to meet tightening environmental regulations and customer expectations for low-carbon logistics solutions. For Ghana and other ports on the SWS route, the vessel’s arrival signals a promising future for cleaner shipping, greater efficiency, and stronger commercial ties with Asia.