Bureau Veritas Classes Its First Methanol Dual-fueled Container Ship

Bureau Veritas Marine & Offshore (BV) has classed its first methanol-fueled containership, CMA CGM ANTIGONE. The 15,000 TEU methanol dual-fuel vessel was built by CSSC Jiangnan Shipyard for the CMA CGM Group, and officially named on December 11 and delivered on December 12.

CMA CGM ANTIGONE is the lead ship of CSSC Jiangnan Shipyard’s independently designed “Kun” series of 15,000 TEU-class methanol dual-fuel container ships. With an overall length of 366 meters, the vessel represents a new generation of large container ships that combine high operational efficiency with significantly reduced environmental impact.

Powered by methanol dual-fuel propulsion, the vessel achieves substantial reductions in nitrogen oxide (NOx) emissions and near elimination of sulfur oxide (SOx) emissions, enabling early compliance with the International Maritime Organization’s (IMO) 2030 emissions reduction targets.

Ahead of the project launch, BV assembled a dedicated team of gas-carrier and alternative-fuel experts to provide specialized training for BV surveyors and the client’s project team and assessed forthcoming international regulations to facilitate early and future compliance. During design review, BV worked closely with Jiangnan Shipyard to optimize structural arrangements and fuel system integration, using advanced simulation tools to meet safety requirements while controlling lightship weight.

In accordance with BV’s Rules for Methanol & Ethanol Fueled Ships, BV provided technical review and risk assessment for key areas including ship design and fuel system safety. During construction, BV surveyors applied refined process control and data-driven monitoring and conducted targeted inspections of fire safety, ventilation, and explosion-proof systems, reinforcing the vessel’s inherent safety.

Xavier Leclercq, Vice President of New Building at CMA Ships, said: “This ship is the first methanol dual-fuel container ship received by CMA CGM in China. Its successful construction and delivery are the result of the hard work and close cooperation of all project partners: Jiangnan Shipyard, China Shipbuilding Trading Co., Ltd., CMA CGM Group, Bureau Veritas, and all other relevant parties. We extend our sincere gratitude to Jiangnan Shipyard and China State Shipbuilding Corporation for their excellent collaboration and strong support throughout the entire construction process of the ship. We look forward to continuing to work hand in hand for a bright future.”

Hu Hongyu, Vice General Manager of CSSC Jiangnan Shipyard, said: “The delivery of this ship is not only another fruit of the profound friendship and outstanding cooperation between CMA CGM and Jiangnan, but also another model of win-win cooperation between China and France in the field of high-end manufacturing. We sincerely thank CMA CGM Group, Sinosure, and Export-Import Bank of China for their strong support. We wish this container ship smooth sailing and have a long voyage ahead. We also look forward to Jiangnan and CMA CGM continuing to deepen cooperation, innovate in more fields, and work together to write a new chapter in shipping development.”

Matthieu de Tugny, Executive Vice President, Industrials and Commodities at Bureau Veritas, said: “The delivery of CMA CGM ANTIGONE represents a major step forward in the adoption of methanol as an alternative marine fuel for large container vessels. By classing our first methanol-fueled container ship, Bureau Veritas reaffirms its commitment to supporting shipowners and shipbuilders in the safe, reliable, and future-ready deployment of low-carbon solutions across the global fleet.”

Press Release

Source: Maritime Shipping News