SOUTH KOREA – Maersk, a global leader in shipping and logistics, has named the world’s first large methanol-enabled container vessel, Ane Mærsk signaling a large stride towards sustainable shipping.
The naming ceremony took place at the HD Hyundai Heavy Industries shipyard in Ulsan, South Korea.
Ane Mærsk McKinney Uggla, Chair of A.P. Moller Foundation and A.P. Moller Holding, had her eldest granddaughter serve as the godmother, christening the vessel with the traditional champagne bottle over the bow.
This innovative vessel represents the first of Maersk’s planned fleet of 18 large methanol-enabled vessels, scheduled for delivery between 2024 and 2025.
The vessel is set to commence service on the AE7 string, connecting Asia and Europe, in early February.
Notably, it is the world’s second methanol-enabled container vessel, featuring an industry-first design placing the bridge and accommodation at the forefront for enhanced fuel efficiency.
Vincent Clerc, Chief Executive Officer of Maersk, emphasized the transformative impact of this vessel on their climate ambitions: “This series of vessels will have a transformative impact on our ambition to progress on our industry-leading climate ambitions. It is a visual and operational proof of our commitment to a more sustainable industry.”
Ane Mærsk will embark on its maiden voyage powered by green methanol, showcasing Maersk’s dedication to reducing emissions.
The company is actively working on sourcing and bunkering solutions for the entire methanol-enabled vessel fleet, with a focus on sustainable and green fuels.
Maersk’s ambitious 2040 target is net-zero greenhouse gas emissions, with a commitment to transport a minimum of 25 percent of ocean cargo using green fuels by 2030.
MPS Terminal 3 initiates express vessel services
In another significant development, the Meridian Ports Services (MPS) Terminal 3 in Ghana has introduced a new express service with the arrival of Maersk Edirne 1, a 366-meter-long container ship.
This vessel, part of the updated Far East-West Africa Service, made history as the first port of call for the 13,676 Twenty-foot Equivalent Unit (TEU) in West Africa.
Maersk Ghana Limited’s Managing Director, Mr. Razak Ngula, expressed excitement about bringing the express service to customers, reducing transit time significantly.
He highlighted the growth of the corridor, noting a 23 percent increase in 2023, and anticipated the vessel’s arrival to further boost cargo capacity into West Africa.
Mr. Mohammed Samara, Chief Executive Officer of MPS, emphasized the positive impact on the logistics supply chain.
The express service not only ensures shorter transit times but also anticipates marginal reductions in freight rates, benefiting international traders.
Furthermore, other shipping lines have shown interest in exploring similar services through the Port of Tema, reinforcing its vision of becoming the leading container hub in the subregion.
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