Image: MAERSK

Maersk Launches 16K‑TEU Dual‑Fuel Vessel Adrian Mærsk in Bold Move Toward Green Shipping

Maersk christened its new 16,000‑TEU dual‑fuel methanol container ship, Adrian Mærsk, today, June 24, 2025, at the APM Terminals Maasvlakte II facility in Rotterdam. The vessel, designed to operate on the Asia-Mediterranean trade lane, was formally named by Nestlé’s Executive Vice President and COO, Stephanie Pullings Hart, underscoring the company's commitment to eco-friendly logistics through its ECO Delivery Ocean programme.

The introduction of Adrian Mærsk marks a major milestone in Maersk’s sustainability strategy. The vessel runs on bio- and e‑methanol, which, depending on feedstock and production methods, can reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 65 % to 90 % compared to conventional fossil fuels. Nestlé ships all its ocean freight under the ECO Delivery Ocean initiative, reducing emissions by more than 80 % and reflecting a substantial investment since launching the programme in 2023.

Karsten Kildahl, Maersk’s Chief Commercial Officer, emphasised that while the technology exists to transition the industry, regulatory support is essential. "The technology for the energy transition of the shipping industry is here," he stated. "What is crucial now are the decisions that IMO member states will make in London next month. We urgently need regulation to support the uptake of fuels that significantly reduce GHG emissions".

Pulling Hart highlighted Nestlé’s environmental ambition: “By achieving a 20 % reduction in greenhouse gas emissions by 2024, ahead of our 2025 target, and aiming for net zero by 2050, we demonstrate our dedication to sustainability. Our green logistics efforts, including partnerships with Maersk, showcase our commitment to reducing emissions and promoting a sustainable future”.

As part of Maersk’s new East‑West network, Adrian Mærsk is expected to contribute to a schedule reliability goal exceeding 90 %, leveraging the capabilities of Maersk’s core hub terminals. This vessel adds to Maersk’s growing fleet of methanol‑enabled ships, which includes Ane, Astrid, Alette, Alexandra, Albert, and Arthur Mærsk—each reinforcing their commitment to alternative fuel technologies.

Maersk Halts Haifa Operations, Reroutes Cargo via Ashdod
Maersk Halts Haifa Operations, Reroutes Cargo via Ashdod
View

This launch not only demonstrates Maersk’s strategic investment in sustainable shipping but also underscores the importance of collaborations between carriers and clients like Nestlé. By advancing dual‑fuel technology and advocating for robust international regulation, Maersk aims to set a precedent for decarbonisation across the global maritime trade.