A.P. Moller – Maersk (Maersk) is expanding its fleet renewal program, initiated in 2021, by securing newbuild orders and time-charter contracts for dual-fuel vessels. This strategic move aligns with the company’s target of replacing approximately 160,000 TEU of its fleet annually.
“Our fleet renewal program is essential for maintaining a competitive edge in the ocean business and is a cornerstone of our decarbonization efforts,” stated Rabab Boulos, chief operating officer at Maersk. “To ensure a steady flow of capacity for our network between 2026 and 2030, we have ordered and chartered 800,000 TEU of dual-fuel vessels.”
The decision to invest in this substantial capacity comes as shipyard order books are filling up rapidly, and vessel delivery lead times have increased significantly. The new vessels will be a mix of owned and chartered, allowing Maersk to maintain financial and operational flexibility while retaining ownership of a significant portion of its strategic tonnage. The diverse vessel sizes will provide network adaptability, and all will be equipped with dual-fuel engines capable of operating on low-emission fuels, supporting Maersk’s decarbonization goals.
Maersk has chosen a combination of methanol and liquefied gas dual-fuel propulsion systems to future-proof its fleet and accelerate decarbonization efforts. While green methanol is expected to be the most competitive and scalable decarbonization solution in the short term, the company recognizes the potential of a multi-fuel future, including liquefied bio-methane.
Ahmed Hassan, Head of Asset Strategy and Strategic Partnership at Maersk, said that with these orders, approximately 25 percent of the Maersk fleet will be equipped with dual-fuel engines. He pointed out as well that this expansion will not increase the overall fleet size, which will remain at around 4.3 million TEU. As older vessels reach the end of their life, they will be replaced, ensuring fleet modernization.
By diversifying its fleet and fuel options, Maersk gains the flexibility, knowledge, and experience to navigate a future with multiple fuel pathways. The company expresses gratitude to its partners for their collaboration in advancing the industry towards decarbonized ocean transport.
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