Danish shipping giant A.P. Moller Maersk has taken delivery of a new ultra-large containership (ULCS) during a ceremony at the Port of Aarhus, as reported by Baird Maritime. This addition to the fleet marks a significant step toward the company’s ambitious target of achieving “net zero” greenhouse gas emissions by 2040.
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Named Antonia Maersk, the vessel is part of a new series of methanol-enabled ships that Maersk will receive between 2024 and 2025, following their construction at South Korea’s HD Hyundai Heavy Industries. This move aligns with Maersk’s commitment to reducing emissions across its operations.
The Antonia Maersk mirrors its sister ship, Ane Maersk, with a length of 350 meters, a beam of 53.5 meters, a draught of 18 meters, and a capacity of 16,592 TEUs. The ship accommodates 30 crewmembers and features an innovative design that places the funnel at the stern while positioning the bridge and accommodation block forward, enhancing fuel efficiency and maximizing cargo space.
Powered by a Hyundai-MAN B&W 8G95ME-C10.5-LGIM-EGRTC eight-cylinder, dual-fuel engine, the Antonia Maersk can reach a service speed of 21 knots. This engine is capable of running on both traditional marine fuel and methanol, offering operational flexibility. The vessel’s two methanol fuel tanks, with a total capacity of 16,000 cubic meters, enable it to sail up to 23,000 nautical miles. Moreover, operating on methanol can reduce the ship’s CO2 emissions by as much as 280 tonnes per day compared to similar vessels using heavy fuel oil.
This delivery underscores Maersk’s ongoing efforts to lead the maritime industry in sustainability, with the Antonia Maersk setting a new standard for environmentally conscious shipping.