Hello there, I'm an expert in maritime affairs and fuels used in the industry. When it comes to the types of fuel used in ships, there are several options, and the choice often depends on the type of ship, its size, the distance it needs to travel, and environmental regulations.

Bunker Fuel is one of the most commonly used types of fuel in the shipping industry. It is a heavy fuel oil, which is a byproduct of the refining process of crude oil. Bunker fuel is known for its high energy density and low cost, making it an attractive option for large cargo ships and tankers that require a lot of power to move vast distances. However, it is also known for being one of the dirtiest forms of fuel, producing high levels of sulfur emissions, which can have significant environmental impacts.

Diesel is another type of fuel that is used in ships, particularly in smaller vessels and those that require a more flexible fuel source. Diesel fuel is a distillate fuel oil that is lighter and cleaner than bunker fuel. It is easier to handle and store, and it burns more cleanly, resulting in fewer emissions. Diesel engines are also more efficient and can be adapted to run on a variety of fuels, including biodiesel.

Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG) is a newer option that is gaining popularity due to its environmental benefits. LNG is natural gas that has been cooled to a liquid state for easier storage and transport. Ships powered by LNG produce fewer emissions than those using traditional bunker fuel, making it a more environmentally friendly choice. However, the infrastructure for LNG is not as widespread as that for bunker fuel, and the initial investment for LNG-powered ships is higher.

Marine Gas Oil (MGO) is a distillate fuel oil that is similar to diesel but is specifically designed for use in marine engines. It is cleaner than bunker fuel and is often used in areas with strict environmental regulations, such as the Baltic and the North Sea. MGO is also used in smaller vessels and yachts where the higher cost is not as prohibitive.

Alternative Fuels like biofuels, hydrogen, and wind power are also being explored for use in ships. These alternative fuels aim to reduce the environmental impact of shipping and are part of a broader effort to transition to more sustainable energy sources. However, they are not yet widely adopted due to various technical and economic challenges.

In conclusion, the choice of fuel for ships is a complex decision that involves balancing cost, efficiency, environmental impact, and regulatory requirements. Bunker fuel remains the most common due to its low cost and high energy density, but there is a growing trend towards cleaner fuels like LNG and alternative options as the industry seeks to reduce its environmental footprint.

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Bunker fuel or bunker crude is technically any type of fuel oil used aboard vessels. It gets its name from the tanks on ships and in ports that it is stored in; in the early days of steam they were coal bunkers but now they are bunker fuel tanks.read more >>