Danish shipping giant A.P. Moller-Maersk has launched its second methanol-powered container vessel, advancing its decarbonisation efforts to achieve net-zero emissions by 2040. The 9,000-TEU vessel, built by Yangzijiang Shipbuilding, showcases dual-fuel engines and represents a pivotal shift towards sustainable fuels in the shipping industry amidst evolving regulatory pressures.
CMA CGM has achieved a significant milestone with the delivery of its 400th owned vessel, the CMA CGM Monte Cristo. This methanol-powered container ship, with a capacity of 16,204 TEU, is set to enhance the company’s decarbonization strategy and will commence service on January 29, 2026.
The methanol-fueled shipping sector faces a slowdown in orders, yet Cargill remains committed to sustainable operations. Their new vessel, Brave Pioneer, will gather crucial data on green shipping innovations, including wind-assisted propulsion and alternative fuels. President Jan Dieleman emphasizes the importance of testing new technologies for broader adoption.
Bureau Veritas Marine & Offshore has classified the CMA CGM ANTIGONE, the world’s first methanol-fueled containership. This 15,000 TEU vessel, built by CSSC Jiangnan Shipyard, emphasizes operational efficiency and reduced environmental impact, featuring a dual-fuel propulsion system that significantly lowers NOx and SOx emissions, aligning with IMO’s 2030 targets.
On October 9, 2025, the Fratelli Cosulich Group unveiled Maya Cosulich, the world’s first methanol-powered IMO II chemical bunker tanker, at Taizhou Maple Leaf Shipyard. The event featured Ms. Hoe Sook Mei as the ship’s Godmother. Designed by SeaTech Solutions, it sets a new standard for alternative marine fuel delivery.
A.P. Moller-Maersk has launched the world’s first large fleet of dual-fuel methanol-powered container vessels, marking a pivotal advancement in sustainable shipping. This initiative, supported by partners like Nestlé and Nike, aims to decarbonize the industry by employing ships capable of running on traditional fuels and green methanol.
