Isle of Man Embraces Sustainable Shipping with Arrival of Innovative Eco-Tanker

Image Credits: Isle of Man Ship Registry/LinkedIn

A recent publication by the Isle of Man Ship Registry highlights the launch of LETTIE PG, a state-of-the-art tanker that has just begun operations under the Isle of Man flag. This vessel is the first in a trio commissioned by Pritchard-Gordon Tankers (PG Tankers) as part of thier initiative to modernize their fleet.

LETTIE PG is a 10,600 DWT oil product and chemical tanker crafted with sustainability in mind, tailored to meet contemporary trading demands while adhering to eco-friendly standards. Built at CMJL Ding Heng shipyard in China, it was launched in September 2024 and is now ready for commercial use.The design work was carried out by FKAB Marine Design from Sweden, renowned for its innovative approaches to energy-efficient vessels. Based in North East England, PG Tankers specializes in transporting crude oil and refined products through sensitive ecological areas using specially designed shallow-draft double-hull tankers.

This new vessel incorporates several advanced technologies. It’s prepared for methanol fuel usage and features peak-shaving batteries powered by solar energy. Additionally,LETTIE PG supports zero-emission discharge operations and can connect to shore power while docked—this considerably cuts down on emissions during port stays.

One standout feature is its patented F-bow design from FKAB that minimizes wave resistance. The hull has been optimized using computational fluid dynamics (CFD), enhancing both flow performance and fuel efficiency.

Moreover, LETTIE PG includes a twisted leading-edge rudder paired with a custom propeller-hull system that boosts speed while conserving fuel—crucial elements for reducing underwater noise pollution which benefits marine ecosystems.The Isle of Man Ship Registry commended this vessel as part of an emerging class focused on environmental responsibility within shipping industries like that of PG Tankers. They expressed pride in supporting such enduring initiatives.

Sustainability lies at the heart of IOMSRS mission; they are collaborating with various shipowners on green projects and exploring advanced wind propulsion technologies aimed at lowering emissions. A notable exmaple includes BERGE OLYMPUS—the most powerful wind-assisted cargo ship globally—also registered under the isle of Man flag.

As one of the founding members of the Getting to Zero Coalition—a global effort striving for complete decarbonization within shipping—IOMSR stands alongside over 120 stakeholders from maritime sectors including energy and finance led by organizations like Global Maritime Forum and World Economic Forum.

In April 2022, the Isle of man became pioneering among flag states by offering a 15% discount on registration fees for vessels utilizing green technologies such as biofuels or alternative fuels—a move aimed at encouraging operators across various types including cargo ships and commercial yachts towards greener practices.

Today’s Isle of Man Ship Registry ranks among top registries worldwide—18th according to Clarkson’s—with oversight over approximately 300 ships totaling around 12.5 million gross tonnage. Located in Douglas on this self-governing British Crown dependency, it holds prestigious positions within both Paris MoU and Tokyo MoU white lists concerning port state control efforts.