Hapag-Lloyd Expands ‘Hamburg Express’ Class Fleet with Delivery of Genova Express

Hapag-Lloyd has welcomed a new addition to its growing fleet, marking the eleventh vessel in its advanced ‘Hamburg Express’ class of containerships. The latest ship, Genova Express, was officially named at the Okpo shipyard of Hanwha Ocean in South Korea and is set to be deployed on the Far East–North Europe Service, under the newly established Gemini Cooperation alliance.

With a capacity of 24,000 TEU, the Genova Express belongs to a new generation of dual-fuel containerships that can operate on liquefied natural gas (LNG) and are engineered to accommodate future-ready fuels such as green methane. These vessels represent a significant leap in sustainable shipping practices and are considered the largest containerships ever to fly the German flag.

Hapag-Lloyd emphasized that this new class of ships is designed to improve operational efficiency and sustainability, with expected reductions in emissions ranging from 20% to 25% per container transported. The flagship of this series, Hamburg Express, was christened at the Port of Hamburg’s Container Terminal Burchardkai on November 4, 2024.

In related developments, Hapag-Lloyd is reportedly in advanced discussions with Hanwha Ocean for a new shipbuilding order. According to Greek shipbroker Intermodal, the company has placed an order for six 16,800 TEU vessels, also to be built at the Okpo shipyard. These ships, expected to feature LNG dual-fuel technology, are scheduled for delivery starting 2027. Although Hanwha Ocean has not officially confirmed the deal, local media reports suggest the agreement is nearing finalization. If concluded, the deal could be worth an estimated $1.2 billion, with each ship priced at $200 million.

Hapag-Lloyd’s fleet expansion is part of a broader commitment to modernize its operations, reduce its carbon footprint, and meet evolving global shipping demands.