Maersk Unveils Albert Maersk: Latest Methanol Dual-Fuel Container Vessel
Danish shipping and logistics giant Maersk has officially revealed the name of its newest methanol dual-fuel container vessel. The vessel, named Albert Maersk, was christened during a ceremony in Mumbai on February 28 as part of its maiden voyage to India.
A Step Towards Sustainable Shipping
Built at Hyundai Heavy Industries in Ulsan, South Korea, Albert Maersk is part of a series of 18 large dual-fuel methanol vessels slated for delivery between 2024 and 2025. With a capacity of 16,592 TEU, it becomes the eleventh vessel in Maersk’s fleet capable of operating on methanol.
India’s Minister of Ports, Shipping, and Waterways, Sarbananda Sonowal, emphasized the significance of the event:
“It is a privilege for India to host the naming of this advanced dual-fuel vessel, a historic first for a foreign shipping company in our country. With the demand for green vessels rising, India has the potential to become a major producer and supplier of green methanol, ammonia, and hydrogen-based fuels.
Maersk’s decision to focus on green fuel production in India is a welcome step that will accelerate our journey towards a sustainable maritime future. This vessel naming is more than just a tradition—it is a symbol of trust, collaboration, and a shared vision for the future.”
Maersk’s Growing Presence in India
Maersk has established a strong foothold in India with two APM Terminals operations in Mumbai and Pipavav, handling the import and export of over three million containers annually. Additionally, its 26 warehouses span across 350,000 square meters, while its distribution network reaches over 80% of India’s pin codes.
Against the backdrop of the naming ceremony, Maersk also announced its investment pipeline of approximately $5 billion in India’s ports, terminals, and landside infrastructure development.
Vincent Clerc, CEO of A.P. Moller – Maersk, highlighted India’s strategic importance:
“Maersk continues to take firm steps towards decarbonizing shipping with the addition of one more dual-fuel vessel to its fleet. India is among the world’s fastest-growing major economies, with a thriving manufacturing sector, a booming e-commerce industry, and expanding exports.
Shipping and logistics are high on India’s priorities, and Maersk looks forward to partnering with India on various aspects, such as exploring the potential sourcing of alternative fuels for low-emissions shipping and activities involving ship repairs and shipbuilding that align with the Indian Government’s ambitions to promote the shipping sector.”
Commitment to Decarbonization
The dual-fuel fleet expansion plays a crucial role in Maersk’s goal of achieving net-zero greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions by 2040. The company continues to push for strong International Maritime Organization (IMO) regulations, advocating for fuel-agnostic policies that support a multi-fuel future and close the price gap between fossil fuels and alternative green fuels.
In line with its sustainability commitments, Maersk has also finalized agreements with two Chinese and one South Korean shipyard to construct 20 additional dual-fuel container vessels. These vessels, set for delivery by 2030, will feature liquefied gas dual-fuel propulsion systems and range in size from 9,000 to 17,000 TEU.
The Future of Green Shipping
With continued investments in green fuel technology, dual-fuel vessels, and infrastructure development, Maersk remains at the forefront of maritime decarbonization. The unveiling of Albert Maersk marks yet another milestone in the company’s ongoing journey toward a sustainable and low-emission shipping future.
