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What is fuel bunkering: history, evolution, types, and common fuels

What is fuel bunkering

In global maritime logistics, few operations are as vital and complex as fuel bunkering. As ships transport goods, equipment, and energy across oceans, the ability to refuel efficiently, safely, and cost-effectively is essential. Fuel bunkering ensures vessels can continue their journeys without delays, disruptions, or environmental risks.

At Royal Petroleum Corp., we understand how critical this process is for operational continuity, and we specialize in delivering reliable, compliant, and competitive solutions throughout Puerto Rico and the Caribbean.

What is fuel bunkering?

Fuel bunkering refers to supplying fuel to ships for their consumption. This includes loading marine fuels from a storage facility, supply vessel or tank truck into a ship’s fuel tanks while docked or offshore. Bunkering is a core service that keeps fleets in motion, whether for cargo shipping, industrial operations, or power generation support.

History and evolution of fuel bunkering

Fuel bunkering has its origins in the 19th century when steamships began to replace sail-powered vessels. These early steamships relied on coal, which was loaded manually—a laborious and time-consuming task. As petroleum-based fuels gained prominence in the 20th century, the industry shifted to oil bunkering, streamlining the refueling process and improving vessel efficiency.

Today, bunkering is governed by strict environmental and safety regulations established by the International Maritime Organization (IMO) and other global authorities. Innovations in fuel metering, transfer equipment, and emissions control have made bunkering more efficient and sustainable than ever before.

Common fuels used in bunkering

Types of fuel bunkering

Fuel bunkering can take several forms depending on location, vessel type, and operational needs:

  1. Port Bunkering

This occurs while the vessel is docked at a port. Fuel is supplied via on-site pipelines or fuel barges. It’s the most traditional and controlled method, often preferred for scheduled refueling stops.

  1. Ship-to-Ship (STS) Bunkering

STS bunkering involves transferring fuel directly from one vessel to another, side by side. This method is useful when port access is unavailable or when time constraints make docking inefficient.

  1. Offshore Bunkering

This method takes place away from shore, typically via a bunker barge or dedicated fueling vessel. Offshore bunkering is common for vessels operating in remote areas or serving oil rigs and industrial sites.

Each method requires precision planning, qualified personnel, and full compliance with safety and environmental standards.

  1. Truck-to-Vessel Bunkering

It is a flexible and highly efficient method that enables direct fuel delivery from tanker trucks to vessels docked at the port, ideal for locations without fixed bunkering infrastructure.

At Royal Petroleum, we specialize in this method, providing tailored fueling solutions that adapt to clients’ unique needs.

Types of fuel bunkering

Common fuels used in bunkering

Different vessel types and regulatory zones require specific fuels. The most common marine fuels include:

  • Heavy Fuel Oil (HFO):

A residual, high-viscosity fuel widely used in large cargo ships. It’s cost-effective but has high sulfur content, requiring scrubbers for emission control in regulated zones.

  • Marine Diesel Oil (MDO):

A lighter distillate fuel used in smaller vessels and auxiliary engines. It’s cleaner than HFO and requires less post-combustion treatment.

  • Ultra Low Sulphur Diesel (ULSD):

Also known in the marine industry as Marine Gas Oil, this is a highly refined diesel with minimal sulfur content, commonly required in Emission Control Areas (ECAs). It offers cleaner combustion and ensures compliance with strict IMO standards.

Fuel bunkering services by Royal Petroleum Corp.

Royal Petroleum Corp., a subsidiary of American Petroleum Co. Inc., offers specialized diesel fuel bunkering services across Puerto Rico and the Caribbean. We provide efficient, compliant, and cost-effective solutions tailored to maritime operations, with the added benefit of truck-to-vessel delivery and tax-exempt fuel for export purposes.

What is fuel bunkering

Our services support a wide range of industries, including maritime transport, power generation, industrial operations, and fuel resellers. We also deliver marine lubricants, offering a complete energy package for vessel operators.

What sets us apart is our strong network of relationships with local ports, marinas, and industrial partners, ensuring fast, secure, and uninterrupted fueling services wherever they’re needed.

Additionally, our high-capacity pumping equipment and support resources are designed to optimize delivery operations, making the process faster, safer, and more efficient from start to finish.

We focus on:

As marine fueling becomes more regulated and complex, Royal Petroleum remains a dependable partner committed to delivering not just fuel, but confidence and operational excellence.

Get in touch today to learn how our bunkering services can keep your fleet moving—efficiently and sustainably—throughout Puerto Rico and the Caribbean.

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