Seaspan and Maersk are expanding their long-running partnership with a new vessel efficiency programme across 18 containerships on long-term charter to the Danish liner giant.
The two companies said the programme is aimed at improving fuel efficiency, cargo capacity, operational flexibility and emissions performance across the shared time-chartered fleet.
The centrepiece is a retrofit package for four 13,000 teu vessels, described by the partners as one of the most significant upgrade programmes undertaken across the Seaspan-Maersk charter fleet.
The work will include installation of shaft generators to reduce auxiliary engine fuel consumption, main engine performance optimisation, a new high-efficiency propeller and pre-swirl device to improve propulsion, and carbon capture readiness to prepare the vessels for future emissions regulation.
The lashing bridges will also be elevated to increase box intake, while deadweight will be raised to improve loading capability. Seaspan said the combined package is expected to improve slot costs by around 10% to 13%, while enhancing fuel efficiency and regulatory readiness.
Total completed and planned investment in fleet upgrades across the 18 vessels stands at about $75m, with further initiatives under development.
Separately, WattSpan, Seaspan’s maritime technology and engineering joint venture focused on vessel performance and decarbonisation, has signed a non-binding memorandum of cooperation with Maersk and COSCO Shipyard. The one-year framework covers collaboration on vessel upgrades, energy efficiency improvements and maritime decarbonisation technologies.
Dimitrios Panagopoulos, chief fleet operations officer at Seaspan, said the partnership showed how “practical, high-impact collaboration” can advance decarbonisation at scale.
