A Large-Scale Collaboration
A.P. Moller – Maersk has launched a sweeping programme to retrofit around 200 vessels in its time-chartered fleet, working with 50 different shipowners. The aim is simple yet ambitious: cut costs per slot by improving fuel efficiency and cargo-carrying capacity, while also lowering greenhouse gas emissions.
“Our medium- and long-term chartered fleet makes up a significant proportion of our operations as well as of our total fuel consumption,” said Ahmed Hassan, Head of Asset Strategy and Strategic Partnerships at Maersk. “By working closely with our partners, we aim to implement solutions that not only reduce emissions but also enhance the overall competitiveness of our fleet.”
Maersk has set a target of a 35% absolute reduction in scope 1 greenhouse gas emissions by 2030, measured against its 2022 baseline.
Short-Term Gains, Long-Term Goals
The company has its eyes on net-zero emissions by 2040, but it knows the transition to alternative fuels will take time. In the meantime, efficiency upgrades to existing ships are seen as one of the strongest tools to make real progress.
“While fuel transition is needed to reach our long-term goal of net-zero emissions by 2040, investments in existing fleet efficiency enhancement technologies is a powerful tool to gain significant emissions reductions in the short term,” Hassan said. “That goes for owned as well as chartered vessels.”
1,500 Projects Already Delivered
So far, Maersk and its partners have executed more than 1,500 projects across the 200 vessels, with another 1,000 projects expected to be completed by 2027. The costs are shared between Maersk and shipowners.
“This model is a win-win,” Hassan explained. “At Maersk, we can reduce both emissions and fuel costs, while the owners get the long-term value of a modernised vessel. Fleet renewal is often seen as new vessels replacing the old, but it is also about ensuring your existing vessels keep their competitive edge.”
Propellers, Bulbous Bows, and Efficiency Potential
Many of the retrofits target vessel designs from an earlier era—when container ships routinely sailed at higher speeds. While schedules have slowed down, the propellers and bulbous bows optimized for fast steaming remained unchanged.
“There lies a big efficiency potential in replacing them,” said Anda Cristescu, Head of Chartering & Newbuilding at Maersk. “Many of these ships were designed and constructed at a time when container vessels in general were sailing at faster speeds.”
Replacing propellers and fitting new bulbous bows, sometimes alongside Pre-Swirl Devices, helps reduce drag and maximize thrust. The hydrodynamic upgrades can make a notable difference in fuel consumption, particularly at today’s lower operating speeds.
Smarter Use of Heat and Power
Other technologies being installed include auxiliary engine waste heat recovery systems, which turn otherwise wasted heat into steam for onboard use, reducing the reliance on fuel-oil-fired boilers. Shaft generator systems are also being added to cut down auxiliary engine usage, another significant contributor to fuel savings.
Increasing Cargo-Carrying Capacity
The retrofit effort doesn’t stop at fuel. Capacity improvements are also part of the programme, including raising wheelhouses for better line of sight and greater intake, strengthening vessels for deeper drafts, and upgrading lashing bridges, lashing systems, and loading computer functions.
