After nearly two years of interruptions, major shipping lines have resumed sailing through the Suez Canal, crucial for global trade. The giant LNG-powered vessel CMA CGM Jacques Saade recently navigated the route, marking significant progress. However, challenges like high insurance premiums and security threats remain, complicating the recovery.
Taiwanese shipping giant Yang Ming Marine Transport Corporation has ordered six 8,000 TEU-class methanol dual-fuel-capable containerships from prominent Japanese shipbuilders. This strategic move aims to modernize the fleet and reduce carbon emissions, with deliveries expected to begin in 2028, enhancing Yang Ming’s global service capabilities in a sustainable manner.
Cochin Shipyard Ltd (CSL) has marked a pivotal moment in India’s maritime industry by securing its first international order for container vessels, valued between $225 million and $300 million. This milestone, which involves constructing six LNG-powered feeder ships for CMA CGM, positions India as a rising contender in global shipbuilding.
Sperry Marine will supply Integrated Bridge Systems for two hydrogen-powered, autonomous-ready container ships commissioned by Samskip Group. Set for delivery in 2027, these vessels will be the first to use zero-emission hydrogen fuel cells and advanced navigation systems, aiming to reduce CO2 emissions by 25,000 tonnes annually.
Kerala Ports Minister V N Vasavan celebrated a milestone as nearly 400 container ships have docked at the Vizhinjam transshipment hub within its first year. The port, inaugurated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on May 2, showcases India’s advancements in automation and AI, benefiting over 100,000 people through various social initiatives.
Mediterranean Shipping Company SA (MSC) is discussing with the Ministry of Ports, Shipping, and Waterways to set up a shipyard in India. The company is looking into utilizing a shipyard in Pipavav, Gujarat for construction and repairs. With global shipyard space running low, MSC is considering this move to address its growing needs.
Hapag-Lloyd has announced the order of 24 new container ships from Chinese shipyards, with a total investment of $4 billion. The vessels will be equipped with liquefied gas dual-fuel engines and will be ammonia-ready. This investment is one of the company’s largest and aims to enhance its competitive position in the global shipping industry.
Wärtsilä has secured a contract to provide its CCS-Ready scrubber systems for three container ships owned by Leonhardt & Blumberg. This marks a significant step towards CCS implementation in the marine industry, enabling cost savings and reducing carbon footprint. The technology ensures regulatory compliance for SOx emissions.
Container ship fleet capacity has surged by 1.6 million TEU this year, marking an 11% increase to reach 29.5 million TEU. In a record-breaking first half of 2024, 264 new ships with 1.6 million TEU capacity were delivered, with a high demand and minimal recycling contributing to this growth trend.
Lloyd’s Register (LR) approves Seaspan Corporation’s next generation feeder vessel design, convertible from LNG to ammonia. This AiP project reflects Seaspan’s commitment to decarbonization. Collaborating with Technolog and LR, Seaspan anticipates future challenges in the shipping industry. Phase 2 focuses on a dual-fuel ammonia feed vessel for decarbonization journey.
ClassNK has released ‘WACDAS (Wave Climate Data Aggregation for Ships)’, a tool for calculating route correction factors crucial for container lashing safety and stacking optimization. This tool, in line with ‘Guidelines for Container Stowage and Securing Arrangements (Edition 3.0)’, enhances efficiency in marine container transportation. Accessible through a web browser, it facilitates optimal container stacking based on vessel routes and seasons. Learn more and register at the provided link.
ClassNK has awarded an approval in principle for the design of a prismatic ammonia fuel tank for container ships, developed by Planning and Design Center for Greener Ships. The tank is designed to ensure safe storage of ammonia and minimize the reduction in the number of cargo containers, while also improving constructability and increasing the fuel volume.
Ocean Network Express Pte. Ltd. (ONE) has contracted Jiangnan Shipyard and Yangzijiang Shipbuilding for twelve 13,000 TEU methanol dual-fuel container ships, with six scheduled for delivery from each shipyard from 2027. This move is part of ONE’s Green Strategy to achieve net zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2050.
