The escalating global demand for shipping has led to increased energy consumption, impacting health and the environment. International organizations aim to achieve 50% fuel desulfurization and decarbonization by 2050. Methanol, derived from renewable sources and produced through carbon dioxide hydrogenation, is highlighted as an effective solution for reducing greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions. Its favorable properties, global scalability, and compatibility with existing infrastructure make it a cost-efficient and minimally disruptive alternative to traditional fuels. This review explores methanol's role as a hybrid maritime fuel, emphasizing its ecological production methods, advantages, and challenges in the shipping industry's green transition. It discusses the environmental impacts of methanol use and analyzes economic factors, positioning methanol as an eco-friendly and financially prudent choice for global shipping. Methanol is efficient and cost-effective, excelling over MGO, especially in new ships, and offers flexibility without specialized pressure tanks. Global marine fuel trends prioritize fuel traits, accessibility, and environmental considerations, incorporating factors like policies, emissions, bunkering, and engine adaptability during transitions.The escalating global demand for shipping has led to increased energy consumption, impacting health and the environment. International organizations aim to achieve 50% fuel desulfurization and decarbonization by 2050. Methanol, derived from renewable sources and produced through carbon dioxide hydrogenation, is highlighted as an effective solution for reducing greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions. Its favorable properties, global scalability, and compatibility with existing infrastructure make it a cost-efficient and minimally disruptive alternative to traditional fuels. This review explores methanol's role as a hybrid maritime fuel, emphasizing its ecological production methods, advantages, and challenges in the shipping industry's green transition. It discusses the environmental impacts of methanol use and analyzes economic factors, positioning methanol as an eco-friendly and financially prudent choice for global shipping. Methanol is efficient and cost-effective, excelling over MGO, especially in new ships, and offers flexibility without specialized pressure tanks. Global marine fuel trends prioritize fuel traits, accessibility, and environmental considerations, incorporating factors like policies, emissions, bunkering, and engine adaptability during transitions.