Maersk Names Third Large Methanol Dual-Fuel Box Ship in Denmark
Maersk has celebrated the christening of Antonia Maersk, the third in its fleet of 18 large dual-fuel methanol containerships, as part of the company’s ongoing efforts to modernize its fleet with greener vessels. The ceremony took place in Aarhus, Denmark, with Kirsten Andersen, spouse of Vestas CEO Henrik Andersen, serving as the godmother.
The Antonia Maersk is named after Antonia Uggla, granddaughter of Ane Maersk Mc-Kinney Uggla, chair of A.P. Møller Foundation and A.P. Moller Holding. This vessel follows the Ane Maersk, christened in January 2024, and the Astrid Maersk, named in April 2024.
“We are excited to introduce Antonia Maersk, the third large dual-fuel vessel in our fleet capable of sailing on green methanol,”
the company announced.
These new ships feature innovative designs, including a bow-positioned deckhouse and offset funnel. They have a 16,500 TEU capacity and are equipped with dual-fuel engines that can run on methanol, reducing CO2 emissions by approximately 280 tonnes per day compared to traditional diesel-powered ships.
Ane Maersk which entered service in January highlights the different configuration of the vessel (Maersk)
During the ceremony, Maersk’s CEO, Vincent Clerc, reiterated the company’s commitment to reducing carbon emissions while acknowledging the challenges:
“We cannot make this journey alone. A price mechanism is needed that can close the gap between the prices of transport with green fuels and fossil fuels.”
He also pointed out the difficulties in sourcing enough green methanol, which has led to the new ships operating part-time on traditional fuels.
Maersk is planning to order 50 to 60 new vessels as fleet replacements, aiming for 800,000 TEU of capacity by 2030. The company’s strategy includes a mix of methanol and liquified gas dual-fuel propulsion systems, with ongoing efforts to secure bio-LNG offtake agreements.
