Pacific International Lines (PIL) has deployed its latest LNG dual-fuel containership, Kota Orkid, which made its maiden call at Singapore on November 26. This is the fourth vessel in PIL’s 8,200 TEU LNG dual-fuel “O-Class” series, on its South West Africa Service route.

Kota Orkid, whose name is inspired by Singapore’s national flower, reflects "the values of resilience, elegance, and progress," according to PIL. The vessel is currently operating on both LNG and bio-methane, which the company claims significantly reduce greenhouse gas emissions and offer flexibility to run on bio-methane.

The Kota Orkid also incorporates a series of energy-saving technologies, including an optimised hydrodynamic hull design and high-performance anti-fouling coatings that improve fuel efficiency and reduce overall carbon output.

During the Singapore port call, PSA Singapore presented a commemorative plaque to the vessel's master, Captain Kan Liang, who reciprocated with a miniature replica of the ship.

Kota Orkid joins sister ships Kota Oasis, Kota Ocean, and Kota Odyssey, helping strengthen PIL’s regional service reliability, capacity, and operational efficiency. Following its Singapore call, the vessel is scheduled to call at ports in Ghana, Togo, Nigeria, and Côte d'Ivoire before returning to Asia.

The addition of Kota Orkid forms part of PIL's fleet expansion and renewal programme, which the company says demonstrates its transition towards lower-carbon shipping operations through investment in dual-fuel technology.