- Maersk has named its latest dual-fuel methanol-powered container ship, Adrian Mærsk, in Rotterdam, marking another step in its sustainability efforts.
- The vessel, with a capacity of over 16,000 TEUs, will operate on the Asia-Mediterranean route, contributing to Maersk’s goal of reducing greenhouse gas emissions by up to 90% with bio- and e-methanol.
- Maersk continues to invest in alternative fuels, recently retrofitting older ships and securing long-term bio-methanol supply agreements to support its expanding green fleet.
A.P. Moller – Maersk has officially named its latest dual-fuel methanol-powered container vessel, “Adrian Mærsk,” during a ceremony at the APM Terminals Maasvlakte II in Rotterdam on March 27, 2025, reads an official release.
Maersk decarbonization strategy
Stephanie Pullings Hart, Executive Vice President and Chief Operations Officer at Nestlé, served as the vessel’s godmother. Nestlé, a key Maersk customer, has been utilizing Maersk’s ECO Delivery Ocean product since 2023, shipping 100% of its ocean cargo under this initiative to achieve over 80% reduction in greenhouse gas emissions compared to conventional fossil fuels.
The “Adrian Mærsk” boasts a capacity exceeding 16,000 TEUs (Twenty-Foot Equivalent Units) and is set to operate on the Asia-Mediterranean trade lane following its maiden voyage from Rotterdam. This deployment aligns with Maersk’s new East-West network, aiming to achieve schedule reliability above 90% once fully implemented. Hub terminals like Maasvlakte II play a crucial role in meeting this objective.
Maersk’s investment in dual-fuel vessels is a significant component of its decarbonization strategy. Depending on the feedstock and production process, bio- and e-methanol can reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 65% to 90% compared to traditional fossil fuels. Recognizing the global fuel demand, Maersk is also deploying dual-fuel liquefied methane vessels, with plans to utilize bio- or e-methane as soon as feasible. This diversified approach underscores the necessity of multiple alternative low-emission fuel technologies to effectively decarbonize the shipping industry.
The naming of “Adrian Mærsk” follows Maersk’s recent christening of another dual-fuel methanol vessel, “Albert Maersk,” in Mumbai on February 28, 2025. This event marked Maersk’s first-ever name-giving ceremony in India, highlighting the country’s potential as a major producer and supplier of green methanol, ammonia, and hydrogen-based fuels.
Commitment to sustainable shipping
Maersk’s commitment to sustainable shipping is further evidenced by its pioneering efforts in retrofitting existing vessels with dual-fuel methanol engines. In November 2024, the company completed the industry’s first large container vessel conversion, transforming the “Maersk Halifax” to operate on methanol. This initiative demonstrates the viability of retrofitting as an alternative to new builds in the transition from fossil fuels to greener alternatives.
To support its expanding fleet of methanol-powered vessels, Maersk has entered into a long-term agreement with China’s LONGi Green Energy Technology for the supply of bio-methanol, commencing in 2026. This partnership aims to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and underscores the potential of bio-methanol in achieving significant emission reductions within the decade.
The introduction of “Adrian Mærsk” represents a significant milestone in Maersk’s journey towards sustainable shipping, reflecting the company’s dedication to innovation and environmental stewardship in the maritime industry.
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Source: Maersk
