Astrid Maersk, a large methanol-powered tanker, made history as the first vessel to conduct simultaneous cargo and bunkering operations in China’s Yangshan Port.
The milestone was made possible via collaboration with the Shanghai International Port Group (SIPG).
Since the inaugural vessel call of the Sally Maersk at Shanghai in 1924, Maersk has been on a 100-year journey supporting trade in and out of China.
Vincent Clerc, Chief Executive Officer of A.P. Moller-Maersk, said: “For a century, Maersk’s conviction to facilitating global supply chains has been the driving force behind our active contribution to China’s foreign trade, with substantial investments in infrastructure, services and people.
“As we continue to pioneer sustainable practices, the deployment of large methanol-enabled vessels in the Asia-Europe trade showcases both rich heritage and the beginning of an exciting new era based on strong partnerships.
“For the energy transition to succeed, we need to go together, and we are working closely with dedicated partners like SIPG, customers, industry peers and regulators to cross the next frontiers in making green ocean transport the easy choice.”
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Jinshan Gu, Chairman of Shanghai International Port Group, stated: “We are thrilled to partner with Maersk in our joint pursuit of this ambitious goal of decarbonisation.
“Maersk and SIPG have responded to the new trend of the industries’ green and low-carbon development, and have conducted fruitful cooperation in this field.
“Today, the first green methanol bunkering with simultaneous operation for a large ocean-going vessel at Shanghai port marks a new milestone between the two parties. It will undoubtedly enhance the strength of the Shanghai port to establish it as a major regional hub for green methanol fuel bunkering.”
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The Astrid Maersk sailed from Yokohama, Japan, to Shanghai following its naming ceremony in early April. It is the second of Maersk’s 18 big methanol-enabled tankers, with delivery expected for 2024-2025.
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