ULSFO is a residual marine fuel reformulated to 0.10% sulphur — essentially compliant with ECA requirements as a residual rather than distillate. It occupies a small but specialised market niche for vessels that want the cost advantages of residual fuel with ECA compliance.
Vessels seeking ECA compliance with residual fuel economics; niche alongside dominant VLSFO and LSMGO choices
ULSFO bridges the gap between residual (cheaper per tonne, but dirty without compliance) and distillate (clean but pricier). For operators with high consumption who want ECA compliance without switching to distillate, ULSFO is an option.
ULSFO is not universally available. Major hubs like Rotterdam offer it commercially; smaller ports may not. Specific nomination is required; lead times can be longer than for VLSFO.
ULSFO quality is generally consistent at reputable suppliers but, like VLSFO, depends on blend composition. Compatibility between ULSFO stems from different sources should be checked.
ULSFO has not taken large share from either VLSFO (outside ECA) or LSMGO (inside ECA). It serves a specific segment rather than replacing either.
Ports in our directory where ULSFO is available as a standard commercial grade:
Seven Ocean procures marine fuel at every major global hub. Tell us the vessel, the port, the grade, and we'll come back with a stem.
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