Bureau Veritas Classes First Methanol Dual-Fuel Container Ship for CMA CGM
Classification society Bureau Veritas Marine & Offshore (BV) has classed its first methanol dual-fueled container ship, a newbuild destined for French shipping and logistics giant CMA CGM Group.
The 15,000 TEU methanol dual-fuel vessel, CMA CGM ANTIGONE, was built by CSSC Jiangnan Shipyard in China. The ship was officially named on December 11 and delivered the following day.
Early Regulatory Preparation and Specialized Expertise
Ahead of the project launch, Bureau Veritas assembled a dedicated team of gas-carrier and alternative-fuel experts. The team provided specialized training for BV surveyors and the client’s project team, while also assessing forthcoming international regulations to facilitate early and future compliance.
Technical Review and Safety Oversight
In accordance with its Rules for Methanol & Ethanol Fueled Ships, BV carried out technical reviews and risk assessments across key areas, including ship design and fuel system safety.
During construction, surveyors applied refined process control and data-driven monitoring methods. Targeted inspections were conducted on fire safety, ventilation, and explosion-proof systems, reinforcing the vessel’s inherent safety.
Industry Milestone for Methanol-Fueled Container Vessels
Matthieu de Tugny, Executive Vice President, Industrials and Commodities at Bureau Veritas, said:
“The delivery of CMA CGM ANTIGONE represents a major step forward in the adoption of methanol as an alternative marine fuel for large container vessels. By classing our first methanol-fueled container ship, Bureau Veritas reaffirms its commitment to supporting shipowners and shipbuilders in the safe, reliable, and future-ready deployment of low-carbon solutions across the global fleet.”
Lead Vessel of the Kun Series
Measuring 366 meters in length, CMA CGM ANTIGONE is the lead ship of CSSC Jiangnan Shipyard’s independently designed Kun series of 15,000 TEU-class methanol dual-fuel container ships.
Emissions Performance and IMO Compliance
Powered by methanol dual-fuel propulsion, the vessel achieves significant reductions in nitrogen oxide (NOx) emissions and near elimination of sulfur oxide (SOx) emissions. According to Bureau Veritas, this enables early compliance with the International Maritime Organization’s (IMO) 2030 emissions reduction targets.
CMA CGM Acknowledges Project Collaboration
Xavier Leclercq, Vice President of New Building at CMA Ships, said:
“This ship is the first methanol dual-fuel container ship received by CMA CGM in China. Its successful construction and delivery are the result of the hard work and close cooperation of all project partners: Jiangnan Shipyard, China Shipbuilding Trading Co., Ltd., CMA CGM Group, Bureau Veritas, and all other relevant parties.”
He added:
“We extend our sincere gratitude to Jiangnan Shipyard and China State Shipbuilding Corporation for their excellent collaboration and strong support throughout the entire construction process of the ship. We look forward to continuing to work hand in hand for a bright future.”
