As the maritime industry aims for zero-emission operations, ammonia and hydrogen are gaining traction as viable ship fuels due to their carbon-free emissions. A new DNV paper outlines a structured pathway for shipowners to obtain approval for these alternative fuels through IMO's alternative design approval (ADA) process. This involves undertaking seven steps to ensure safety and equivalence to conventional oil-fuelled vessels. The role of classification societies such as DNV and flag administrations is crucial in streamlining the approval process and providing necessary support. DNV's rules for ammonia and hydrogen fuels offer structured requirements to simplify ADA, providing predictability to stakeholders. Safety measures for handling hydrogen and ammonia focus on preventing leaks, ignition, and ensuring personnel protection. Ship design considerations include robust systems for leak prevention, ventilation, and safe bunkering spaces. Preparing for safe operations involves updating safety management systems, developing fuel-specific procedures, and enhancing emergency preparedness. Crew competency development is identified as a challenge due to the lack of existing courses for ammonia and hydrogen under the STCW. The paper emphasizes the need for a change in mindset concerning design, operations, and crew competence to safely deploy ammonia and hydrogen fuels in the maritime sector.