Yang Ming Expands Fleet with Methanol and LNG Dual-Fuel Vessels Under Fleet Optimization Plan

Yang Ming Marine Transport Corporation has announced plans to expand its fleet with three additional 8000 TEU methanol dual-fuel-ready containerships. The vessels will be built by Nihon Shipyard Co Ltd and Imabari Shipbuilding Co Ltd. This new order follows a previous purchase of three similar ships in March, bringing the total number of methanol dual-fuel-ready vessels to six. These ships are scheduled for delivery between 2028 and 2030.

The decision is part of Yang Ming’s broader fleet optimization strategy aimed at maintaining the competitiveness of its core container shipping operations. Approved at the company’s 404th Board Meeting, the plan includes the procurement of up to thirteen newbuilds in the 8000 to 15000 TEU range. This comprises six 8000 TEU methanol dual-fuel-ready containerships and seven 15000 TEU LNG dual-fuel vessels.

The new vessels are intended to replace older ships in the 5500 to 6500 TEU class that have been in service for over two decades. According to the company, this move is expected to stabilize fleet deployment over the medium to long term and enhance service offerings.

The upcoming 8000 TEU vessels will incorporate energy-efficient main engines and be constructed with methanol dual-fuel-ready designs. This will enable greater flexibility in adopting alternative fuels as global regulatory frameworks and fuel availability evolve. The 15000 TEU LNG dual-fuel vessels will further support Yang Ming’s efforts to modernize its fleet and improve environmental performance. Yang Ming reiterated its commitment to implementing its fleet renewal program in order to enhance service coverage, operational resilience and sustainability. The company emphasized the importance of reliable transport solutions in light of ongoing changes in global supply chains and macroeconomic uncertainties.