Wallenius Wilhelmsen has taken delivery of Arctic Tern – the first vessel in its Shaper-class series. The dual fuel, methanol-ready vessel will be deployed by Eukor Car Carriers, the jointly owned shipping line of Hyundai Motor Group and Wallenius Wilhelmsen.
The Shaper-class series offers greater cargo capacity, improved efficiency and fuel flexibility. Arctic Tern is expected to complete its first methanol bunkering shortly after delivery and will enter service between Asia and Europe.
“These vessels strengthen our ability to deliver reliable and efficient services to customers while supporting the transition towards lower-emission operations,” said Xavier Leroichief operating officer, shipping services at Wallenius Wilhelmsen and ceo of Eukor Car Carriers. “They are also a critical building block in our ambition to offer net-zero end-to-end services as early as 2027.”
Wallenius Wilhelmsen signed the letter of intent for four methanol-capable and ammonia-ready ro-ro vessels, with options for an additional eight vessels, back in August 2023. The company since increased the order, exercising several options to bring the total number of vessels in the Shaper-class series to 14.
This includes seven 9,300 ceu vessels and seven, larger 11,700 ceu vessels.
