Denmark-based container shipping and logistics firm A.P. Moller-Maersk has ordered eight large container vessels from China’s New Times Shipbuilding, with delivery scheduled across 2029 and 2030.
The ships will form a new 18,600 TEU series. At 366 m in length and 58.6 m in beam, the design is slightly more compact than the largest 400 m boxships currently in service, a configuration Maersk says will allow for broader deployment across its network.
“We are pleased to have signed this agreement for eight large vessels. The order is part of our ongoing fleet renewal and helps maintain our fleet’s competitive edge,” said Anda Cristescu, Head of Chartering & Newbuilding at Maersk.
“Deployment flexibility has been a key factor in our decision-making. Although these vessels are large, they offer greater flexibility than the largest ships currently being built in our industry. This provides us with multiple deployment options across both our current and future network,” Cristescu added.
The vessels will be fitted with dual-fuel engines capable of operating on conventional marine fuels or liquefied gas, supporting Maersk’s strategy of maintaining optionality as lower-emissions fuel supply develops.
Following the order, Maersk now has 33 vessels on order across its newbuilding programme, with four scheduled for delivery during the remainder of 2026.
