A.P. Moller – Maersk has officially completed its ambitious fleet renewal strategy with the ordering of 20 state-of-the-art dual-fuel container vessels. This marks a significant milestone for the company’s decarbonization journey, as all ships are designed to operate on lower-emission fuels. The contracts, signed with three shipyards, cover a total capacity of 300,000 TEU and include vessels ranging in size from 9,000 to 17,000 TEU.
Announced back in August, this fleet expansion aligns with Maersk’s commitment to modernizing its operations while reducing its environmental footprint. Anda Cristescu, Head of Chartering & Newbuilding at Maersk, shared her enthusiasm:
“We are pleased to have signed agreements for 20 vessels and thereby completed the acquisition of 300,000 TEU capacity as announced in August. These orders are a part of our ongoing fleet renewal program and in line with our commitment to decarbonisation, as all the vessels will have dual-fuel engines with the intent to operate them on lower emissions fuel.”
The vessels will be equipped with liquified gas dual-fuel propulsion systems, ensuring operational versatility. From smaller 9,000 TEU ships to the larger 17,000 TEU vessels, this mix provides flexibility for Maersk’s future deployment needs. Once delivered, the new vessels will gradually replace older capacity in the fleet. Deliveries are scheduled between 2028 and 2030.
This latest order includes:
- 2x 9,000 TEU vessels from Yangzijiang Shipbuilding in China.
- 12x 15,000 TEU vessels, with six being built at Hanwha Ocean in South Korea and six at New Times Shipbuilding in China.
- 6x 17,000 TEU vessels from Yangzijiang Shipbuilding.
The August update also revealed Maersk’s intention to charter an additional 500,000 TEU of dual-fuel capacity through partnerships with tonnage providers. Those contracts have also been finalized, reflecting a comprehensive approach to modernizing the fleet.
Cristescu further highlighted the importance of these vessels’ sizes and capabilities:
“Due to their different sizes, the vessels will be able to fill many roles and functions within our future network and give us a lot of deployment flexibility when they are ready to enter our fleet.”
Maersk’s actions underscore its determination to balance operational efficiency with sustainability. By investing in dual-fuel propulsion technology, the company not only strengthens its market position but also makes tangible progress toward its environmental goals.
