ABS to class Maersk 19,630 TEU newbuilds

JULY 9, 2015 — ABS is to class the eleven giant, second generation Triple-E container vessels ordered by Maersk Line last month (see earlier story).

The carrier ordered the 19,630 TEU vessels from Daewoo Shipbuilding & Marine Engineering (DSME) of South Korea in a $1.8 billion deal that includes options to build up to six additional vessels.

ABS was chosen to class 20 of the Triple-E containerships that Maersk ordered from the same shipyard four years ago. While the new additions will be slightly larger the owner indicated energy efficiency, economy of scale and the environment are still central considerations.

“ABS is pleased that the Maersk Group has expressed its continued confidence by classing these innovative ships with us,” says ABS Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer Tony Nassif. “ABS offices worldwide, working in unison, are providing support and analysis for Maersk in the latest standards and international codes, including the energy efficiency standards measured and mandated by the IMO.”

Much like the first generation of Triple-E containerships this second order will allow the carrier to further increase operational efficiencies over and above those of other vessels involved in the Asia to Europe trade while maintaining its market share in line with container trade volumes.  
The newbuildings, which will be the largest containerships in the Danish carrier’s fleet, are due for delivery between April 2017 and May 2018.