Maersk, a pioneer in green fuels, is reportedly exploring the possibility of acquiring additional methanol-powered container vessels. The company’s journey into sustainable shipping began with the deployment of the 2,136 TEU vessel named “LAURA MAERSK,” which is already in active service.
Following this, Maersk proceeded to place orders for twelve 16,200 TEU vessels referred to as ‘Equinox Mk-I’ ships from Hyundai Heavy Industries. Subsequently, they ordered six more vessels of 17,000 TEU capacity, known as ‘Equinox Mk-II’ ships from the same builder.
In June, Maersk expanded its commitment to green fuels by adding six 9,200 TEU methanol dual-fuel ships to its fleet. These ships were constructed by YZJ.
Now, the Danish shipping company is rumored to have issued requests for proposals for the potential construction of up to 15 container ships with a capacity of 3,500 TEU.
In their search for shipbuilders, Maersk has approached established builders of vessels of this size, which include Yangzijiang Shipbuilding (YZJ), Guangzhou Wenchong Shipyard (GWS), and Zhoushan Changhong International Shipyard (ZCIS). Additionally, they have reportedly invited Taizhou Sanfu to submit a proposal.
Notably, Taizhou Sanfu, which has traditionally focused on smaller container vessels and multi-purpose ships (mpp ships), secured orders for six LNG-powered 3,500 TEU ships in both 2021 and 2022. These ships will be owned and operated by Seaboard Marine and are constructed based on a German design developed by HB Hunte Engineering.
Detailed specifications for Maersk’s proposed 3,500 TEU methanol-powered ships have not been disclosed to the public. However, it is worth noting that Maersk is currently in the process of receiving a ten-unit series of conventionally-powered geared 3,600 TEU ships from YZJ. These compact vessels have a length of 200.00 meters and a breadth of 36.40 meters, with 14 rows.
Sources: Maersk, Alphaliner
