Seaspan and Maersk unveil vessel efficiency upgrade program

Photo: Seaspan

Seaspan Corporation Pte. Ltd. is collaborating with Maersk to roll out a comprehensive vessel efficiency program on 18 Seaspan vessels on long-term charter to Maersk. The program is aimed at unlocking measurable gains in fuel efficiency, cargo capacity, operational flexibility, and emissions reduction.

As a cornerstone initiative, the partners have jointly developed high-impact retrofit solutions for four 13,000 TEU vessels.

The retrofit solution consists of the installation of a shaft generator to reduce auxiliary engine fuel consumption, a main engine performance optimization, a new high-efficiency propeller and pre swirl device to improve propulsion efficiency, and carbon capture readiness to prepare the vessel for future emissions regulations.

In addition, the lashing bridge will be elevated to increase cargo carrying capacity, and the deadweight will be increased to enhance loading capability. Together, these retrofit measures are expected to improve the vessel’s slot cost by approximately 10–13%, while enhancing fuel efficiency, operational performance, and regulatory readiness.

To date, combined investments in fleet upgrades for the 18 vessels, completed and planned, are approximately USD $75 million, with further initiatives under development to support continued decarbonization and performance gains.

Separately, WattSpan, a strategic maritime technology and engineering joint-venture between Seaspan and Watts Energy,focused on vessel performance, energy efficiency, and decarbonization solutions–has joined Maersk and COSCO Shipyard in signing a non-binding Memorandum of Cooperation, establishing a one-year framework for collaboration on vessel upgrades, energy efficiency improvements, and maritime decarbonization technologies. Initiatives include, but are not limited to, joint development, information sharing, and future project execution under separate commercial agreements.

“This partnership reflects the kind of practical, high-impact collaboration needed to advance decarbonization across the maritime industry,” said Dimitrios Panagopoulos, chief fleet operations officer at Seaspan. “By working closely with Maersk, WattSpan, and COSCO Shipyard, we are combining technical expertise, operational insight, and long-term investment to improve vessel performance today while preparing our fleet for the fuels and technologies of the future. It is a strong example of how trusted partnerships can deliver meaningful progress at scale.”

Anda Cristescu, head of chartering and newbuilding at Maersk added, “For many years, Seaspan has been a valued partner and significant provider of tonnage to the Maersk fleet. By working closely with Seaspan, we aim to implement vessel upgrades that reduce fuel costs, lower greenhouse gas emissions, and increase cargo capacity – all of which enhance the competitiveness of our fleet.”