In recent years, the maritime industry has undergone dramatic transformations, giving rise to the largest container ships in the world has ever seen. These colossal vessels, stretching over 1,300 feet in length, are marvels of modern engineering and are key drivers of global trade
Why are the world’s largest container ships so significant? In the 1970s, Panamax ships, with a capacity of 4,000 TEU, were considered enormous. However, as global trade expanded, so did the demand for larger, more efficient vessels.
The early 2000s witnessed the advent of Ultra-Large Container Vessels (ULCVs), revolutionizing the shipping industry. These colossal ships can carry over 10,000 TEU, with MSC Irina currently holding the record as the largest container ship in the world, boasting a capacity of 24,346 TEU!
However, the story of container ships is not merely about size. Efficiency and advanced technology are paramount. Modern vessels are designed to optimize fuel consumption, streamline operations, and ensure precise tracking. As ships grow larger, so do their sophisticated systems, making monitoring and managing these behemoths easier than ever.
The Top 10 Largest Container Ships In The World
To date, the world has witnessed container ships breaking records in size, capacity, and technology. Join VINALIFT as we explore the top 10 largest container ships in the world.
MSC Irina
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MSC Irina is the world’s largest container ship, boasting a capacity of 24,346 TEU. Flying the Liberian flag, the vessel measures 399.9 meters in length and 61.3 meters in width. This colossal ship is the first of six vessels constructed by China’s Jiangsu Yangzijiang Shipbuilding Group.
Both MSC Irina and her sister ship, MSC Loreto, feature an intelligent design that reduces fuel consumption. Notable features include large propellers, an air-lubrication system to reduce hull friction, and a hybrid scrubber system that cuts carbon dioxide emissions by 3 to 4%.”
MSC Loreto
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MSC Loreto is a container ship with a capacity of 24,346 TEU, ranking among the world’s largest container vessels. This ship is one of six constructed by China’s Jiangsu Yangzijiang Shipbuilding Group for Mediterranean Shipping Company.
Flying the Liberian flag, MSC Loreto is equipped with intelligent designs such as large propellers and a hybrid scrubber to enhance fuel efficiency and reduce carbon emissions.
MSC Michel Cappellini
The MSC Michel Cappellini is another remarkable vessel in the MSC fleet. It showcases MSC’s dedication to pushing the boundaries of maritime engineering. With a capacity of 24,346 TEU, it is one of the world’s largest container ships, capable of highly efficient ocean transportation.
This colossal vessel measures 400 meters in length, 61.5 meters in width, and 16.5 meters in depth, allowing it to transport massive quantities of cargo with exceptional precision. The ship is named after former MSC CEO Michel Cappellini, who led the company to become a global maritime empire.
OOCL Spain
The OOCL Spain is the first vessel from the Orient Overseas Container Line (OOCL) to exceed a capacity of 24,188 TEU. The ship embarked on its maiden voyage on March 25, 2023, and is one of the largest container ships globally.
Constructed by Nantong COSCO KHI Ship Engineering Co., the vessel measures 399.9 meters in length, and 61.3 meters in width, and has a gross tonnage of 235,341 tons. The American Bureau of Shipping has awarded the vessel the ‘Smart Ship’ notation due to its implementation of intelligent technologies for enhanced operational efficiency, fuel economy, structural health monitoring, and high safety standards.
ONE Innovation
The ONE Innovation is the flagship vessel of Ocean Network Express (ONE). With a capacity of 24,136 TEU, it is one of the world’s largest container ships, equipped with cutting-edge technology.
Constructed by Mitsubishi Heavy Industries in Japan, this maritime marvel measures 400 meters in length, 61.5 meters in width, and 16.5 meters in depth, enabling it to navigate the oceans with precision. Its name reflects ONE’s strong focus on innovation, continually redefining the standards of maritime transportation.
MSC Tessa
The MSC Tessa once held the title of the world’s largest container ship in 2022, before being surpassed by its sister vessels and newer builds in the past one to two years.
This vessel is designed for energy efficiency with features such as a bulbous bow, energy-saving ducts, large propellers, hybrid scrubbers, and air lubrication. These elements contribute to optimal reductions in energy consumption and carbon emissions.
Ever Alot
The Ever Alot was constructed in 2022 by Hudong-Zhonghua Shipbuilding Group Co. and delivered to Taiwan’s Evergreen Marine. It has a capacity of up to 24,004 TEU.
The vessel measures 399.9 meters in length and 61.5 meters in width, making it one of the largest container ships globally. The ship is equipped with technology that enhances its seakeeping performance, enabling it to transport heavy cargo swiftly and efficiently while consuming less fuel.
HMM Algeciras
The HMM Algeciras is one of twelve environmentally friendly 24,000 TEU container ships and is also one of the largest container ships in the world. Flying the Panamanian flag, the vessel measures 399.9 meters in length, 61 meters in width, and has a depth of 33.2 meters.
Constructed by Daewoo Shipbuilding and Marine Engineering, the ship is equipped with a scrubber system and features an intelligent hull design to enhance its environmental friendliness and fuel efficiency.
Ever Ace
The Ever Ace, another significant member of the Evergreen fleet, has a capacity of 23,992 TEU. The vessel embarked on its maiden voyage in July 2021.
Constructed by Samsung Heavy Industries in South Korea, the Ever Ace measures 399.9 meters in length and 61.5 meters in width. Equipped with a Wartsila two-stroke engine, the Ever Ace can achieve a service speed of 22.6 knots.
HMM Oslo
Just like its twin, the HMM Algeciras, the HMM Oslo, built by Samsung Heavy Industries, is one of the biggest container ships around. This nearly 400-meter-long, 61.5-meter-wide ship can carry 23,820 TEU and flies the Panamanian flag. It’s part of HMM’s plan to have 20 new eco-friendly ships that meet the toughest environmental standards.
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