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With the Delivery of Axel Maersk, the Danish Giant AP Moller, Maersk Completes Its First Global Series of Large Methanol-Powered Containerships, Strengthening Its Pioneering Role in Maritime Decarbonization.
AP Moller, the renowned Danish transport and logistics company, announced the completion of its first series of large dual-fuel methanol containerships. The delivery of the Axel Maersk, which took place on May 27, 2025, in South Korea, marks this important milestone. This development is crucial for Maersk’s strategy to achieve net-zero emissions.
The Final Milestone in Maersk’s Innovative Fleet
AP Moller officially received the Axel Maersk. This event completes the first global series of large methanol dual-fuel containerships. The naming and delivery ceremony for the 16,200 TEU vessel took place at the HD Hyundai Heavy Industries (HD HHI) shipyard in South Korea. The ceremony date was May 27, 2025.
As reported, the new Maersk vessel was named Axel Poul Peder Maersk Uggla. He is the grandson of Ane Mærsk Mc-Kinney Uggla, chairman of the AP Moller Foundation.
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Danish Company’s Commitment to Decarbonization
The Danish company highlighted the importance of this fleet on its social media. “With the delivery of AXEL MÆRSK, we complete the first global series of large dual-fuel methanol containerships,” it stated. The company added, “This iconic fleet is a sign of what is possible when ambition meets action, All The Way To Zero.”
It also emphasized the continuance of its efforts. “From Laura Mærsk to Axel Mærsk, each dual-fuel vessel marks a bold step toward a future with net-zero emissions.”
Technical Details and Inaugural Route of Axel Maersk
The green containership features impressive dimensions. It measures 336.78 meters in length, 53.5 meters in width, and has a draft of 18 meters. The vessel flies the flag of Denmark.
Classified by the American Bureau of Shipping (ABS), the Axel Maersk has a gross tonnage of 189,508 tons (dwt). The Maersk, based in Denmark, reported that the vessel is already sailing on its inaugural voyage. It operates on the East-West Network, connecting customers in Asia and Europe.
Pioneering the Adoption of Green Methanol
The completion of this series is another step in the pioneering efforts of Maersk toward decarbonization. In September 2023, the first green methanol containership, the Laura Maersk, was christened. The ceremony took place in Copenhagen and was attended by European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen. The 2,100 TEU vessel symbolizes a new era for the company and the industry.
Subsequently, in January 2024, the company named the Ane Maersk. This was the world’s first large methanol-powered containership, capable of carrying 16,000 TEU. The ceremony also took place at the HD HHI Ulsan shipyard. The Ane Maersk is the first of 18 large methanol-powered vessels by Maersk, with deliveries scheduled between 2024 and 2025.
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