MOL Hosts Ship Tour Event to Celebrate Marine Day's 30th Anniversary

Exploring the Seas: MOL's Celebration of Marine Day

On July 21, 2025, Mitsui O.S.K. Lines (MOL) participated in the celebration of Marine Day, marking its 30th anniversary, through an engaging ship tour event. This event, co-hosted by the Ocean Policy Headquarters, the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism, and the Nippon Foundation, showcased their latest LNG-fueled car carrier, CELESTE ACE.

The tour welcomed around 600 lucky participants, including children from elementary to high school, as well as their families, selected from a large pool of applicants. They boarded the impressive 200-meter car carrier to explore the bridge, crew living quarters, and various other areas, while also receiving insightful explanations on shipping and maritime activities from onboard crew members. A demonstration on vehicle loading in the cargo hold captivated many attendees, showcasing the operational aspects of the shipping industry.

Children enjoyed a hands-on experience at the Tokyo International Cruise Terminal, where they operated ship simulators and engaged in various activities centered around MOL's newly opened interactive museum, “FUNESHIRU.” The museum, which opened on July 19, 2025, offers exhibits focused on the scale of shipping, the role of ships, and the future of shipping, making learning both informative and playful. Through quizzes and games, young visitors were encouraged to deepen their understanding of the maritime industry.

In addition to the ship tour and terminal exhibitions, approximately 250 MOL staff members participated in organizing the event. Feedback from participants was overwhelmingly positive, with many expressing their amazement at the ship's size, their excitement for learning about the industry, and admiration for the meticulous vehicle loading process.

The MOL Group emphasizes the importance of social responsibility through its initiative called, “BLUE ACTION for ALL.” This program is designed to foster sustainable societal contributions alongside its core business objectives. The term “BLUE ACTION” reflects the company’s commitment to environmental preservation and highlights the significance of collaborative efforts in community engagement.

From July 21 to October 9, 2025, the period was designated as the “BLUE ACTION for ALL Campaign,” where MOL’s various domestic and international offices would come together to promote social contributions and community engagement. MOL continues to encourage children and the public to connect with the maritime world, ensuring that the next generation understands and appreciates the shipping industry's importance.

CELESTE ACE, being the third vessel in MOL’s BLUE series of LNG-fueled car carriers, symbolizes the company's mission to innovate and responsibly meet diverse shipping needs. Since the launch of Japan's first car carrier in 1965, MOL has evolved into a pioneering force in the industry, operating a fleet of around 100 vessels that ensure safe and stable transport services across the globe.

MOL also champions educational initiatives, appointing “MOL Ambassadors,” comprising 10 middle and high school students. These ambassadors play a crucial role in sharing the importance of marine conservation and the fascination of a career in shipping with their peers. They are part of ongoing efforts to cultivate future leaders in the maritime sector.

As MOL advances its mission for sustainable growth intertwined with ecological responsibility, events like the Marine Day ship tour serve both as a celebration and an opportunity to inspire the upcoming generation of maritime professionals. By providing platforms for education and hands-on experiences, MOL is laying the groundwork for a brighter future for the maritime industry and society as a whole.

The commitment to integrating sustainability into business practices continues to be a priority for MOL, emphasizing the potential of collaborative efforts to create a lasting impact in the community and the world. The combination of fun and education at events ensures that participants walk away with newfound knowledge and respect for the maritime industry, further solidifying MOL's role as a responsible and innovative leader in the shipping world.