Maersk orders eight “flexible” 18,600 TEU vessels in China

Maersk continues its fleet modernization with a significant order: eight container ships of 18,600 TEU, built in China at New Times Shipbuilding. Deliveries are scheduled over a long horizon, 2029–2030, which confirms a logic of structural renewal rather than a short-term opportunistic gamble.

The choice of size is particularly interesting. Maersk emphasizes one point: these ships, although very large, would remain more “deployable” than the ultra-large 24,000 TEU vessels. The company highlights more compact dimensions, allowing for more network options, stops, and configurations according to the evolution of corridors and port constraints.

Another key element: propulsion. The ships are announced to be dual-fuel (diesel / LNG), which aligns with a trajectory of emission reduction and energy efficiency improvement. For Maersk, the objective is twofold: to improve environmental performance and maintain adaptability, as fuel choices and ESG policies continue to tighten.

This order adds to a portfolio of ships already awaiting delivery. Maersk reminds us that it has several units coming up in the short term, a sign of a staggered investment schedule — an approach that aims to smooth out cycle risk while maintaining control over the capacity/technology mix.

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