Galway Port last week welcomed the inaugural visit of Thun Renew, one of the most environmentally advanced coastal tankers operating in European waters.
The vessel arrived carrying a cargo of fuel oil and marks the start of a new regular service to the port.Under the new schedule, Thun Renew will call at Galway Port twice monthly, helping to ensure the reliable supply of energy products to the West of Ireland while supporting the maritime sector’s transition towards more sustainable operations.
Built in 2026 by Ferus Smit Shipyard in Leer, Germany, Thun Renew is the third vessel in the innovative R-Class series developed by Erik Thun Group. Designed for maximum resource efficiency, the vessel delivers significantly lower emissions, reduced fuel consumption and enhanced onboard conditions for crew.
A key feature of Thun Renew is its ability to operate in emission free mode while sailing in Irish waters, including Galway Bay. This capability represents a significant step forward in reducing the environmental impact of maritime transport and supports Ireland’s wider decarbonisation and sustainability ambitions.
Commenting on the vessel’s first visit, Captain Brian Sheridan, Interim CEO of Galway Port, said they are delighted to welcome Thun Renew to Galway for the first time.
“This vessel represents the future of coastal shipping, combining operational efficiency with innovative environmental technology.
“Its ability to operate carbon-free in Irish waters demonstrates how the shipping industry is embracing sustainable solutions while continuing to provide essential services to regional economies.”
Thun Renew is part of a new generation of tankers designed to meet the highest environmental and operational standards. Its advanced technology and modern design enable the safer, cleaner and more efficient transport of oil and chemical products across Northern Europe.
The vessel’s regular deployment to Galway highlights both the continued importance of maritime trade to the region and the growing adoption of low-emission technologies across the European shipping industry.
