Maersk’s 11th Dual-Fuel Vessel “ALBERT MAERSK”, Named in India
Content Writer
March 13, 2025
In a significant step towards decarbonising the shipping industry, A.P. Moller – Maersk unveiled its 11th dual-fuel methanol-powered vessel, the Albert Maersk, during a grand naming ceremony in Mumbai on February 28, 2025. This event marked a historic first for India, as it was the maiden occasion where a global shipping line hosted such a ceremony in the country. The Albert Maersk is a testament to Maersk’s commitment to sustainability and innovation in maritime logistics.
The Vessel: Albert Maersk
The Albert Maersk is a modern container ship operated by A.P. Moller – Maersk, one of the world’s largest shipping companies. Here are some key details about the vessel:
- – Type:Container Ship
- – Year Built: 2024
- – Flag: Denmark
- – Length: 351 meters
- – Beam (Width): 54 meters
- – Fuel Type: Dual-fuel, capable of operating on methanol, supporting Maersk’s decarbonisation goals
Built by Hyundai Heavy Industries in Ulsan, South Korea, the Albert Maersk is part of a groundbreaking series of 18 large dual-fuel methanol vessels set to be delivered between 2024 and 2025. It is the 11th vessel in this series, with a capacity of 16,592 TEU (Twenty-foot Equivalent Units). Equipped with advanced dual-fuel technology, it operates on both conventional marine fuels and methanol—a cleaner alternative. Methanol, derived from bio and e-sources, can reduce greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions by at least 65% compared to traditional fossil fuels. This aligns with Maersk’s ambitious goal of achieving net-zero GHG emissions by 2040. The vessel’s design and technology represent a significant leap forward in the shipping industry’s transition to sustainable practices.
The Naming Ceremony in Mumbai
The naming ceremony for the Albert Maersk was held at Gateway Terminals India Pvt Ltd (GTI), one of the five container terminals at the Jawaharlal Nehru Port Authority (JNPA) in Mumbai. This event was not just a celebration of a new vessel but also a symbol of India’s growing importance in global maritime trade and sustainable shipping initiatives.
In a historic moment, Raksha Khadse, the Minister of State for Youth Affairs and Sports, became the first woman to name a vessel in Maersk’s fleet. Acting as the vessel’s “Godmother,” her role highlighted a significant step towards inclusivity and recognition of women’s contributions in maritime and global trade sectors. The ceremony was also graced by other dignitaries, including Union Minister of Ports, Shipping, and Waterways Sarbananda Sonowal, JNPA Chairman Unmesh Sharad Wagh, Maersk CEO Vincent Clerc, and APM Terminals CEO Keith Svendsen.
During the event, Minister Sonowal highlighted India’s potential to become a major producer and supplier of green methanol, ammonia, and hydrogen-based fuels. He emphasized that Maersk’s investments in green fuel production in India would accelerate the country’s journey towards a sustainable maritime future.
Maersk's Commitment to India
Maersk’s decision to host the naming ceremony in India underscores the country’s strategic importance in the company’s global operations. India is one of the world’s fastest-growing major economies, with a thriving manufacturing sector, booming e-commerce industry, and expanding exports. Maersk facilitates the movement of one in every six containers imported or exported from India, making it a key player in the nation’s logistics ecosystem.
The company announced a $5 billion investment pipeline for ports, terminals, and landside infrastructure development in India. This includes enhancing the capabilities of APM Terminals in Mumbai , which collectively handle over three million containers annually. These investments aim to reduce logistics costs, improve efficiency, and support India’s ambitions to become a global maritime powerhouse.
A Vision for the Future
The naming of the Albert Maersk is more than just a maritime tradition; it is a symbol of trust, collaboration, and a shared vision for a sustainable future. As the shipping industry grapples with the challenges of climate change, initiatives like Maersk’s dual-fuel vessels offer a roadmap for achieving environmental and economic goals.
India’s role in this journey cannot be overstated. With its robust infrastructure, skilled workforce, and commitment to green energy, the country is well-positioned to lead the way in sustainable maritime practices. The Albert Maersk’s maiden voyage to India is a testament to this potential and a harbinger of the transformative changes that lie ahead.
