CMA CGM’s methanol dual-fuel container ship, CMA CGM Berenice, has made its first call at Malta Freeport Terminals, becoming what is said to be the largest methanol dual-fuel container vessel to call at the port.

Built in 2026, the vessel has a capacity of 16,188 TEU and is one of six methanol dual-fuel vessels CMA CGM is introducing under its fleet-renewal and decarbonisation strategy. It is the fifth vessel in the series.

Sailing under the Maltese flag, and with a length of 366 metres and a beam of 51 metres, Berenice is fitted with a MAN B&W 8G95ME-C10.5-LGIM dual-fuel main engine, enabling operation on methanol as well as conventional marine fuel. The ship uses Jiangnan Shipyard's KUN-15M 'Kun' series design.

Malta Freeport Terminals CEO Alex Montebello noted that CMA CGM is the largest customer of Malta Freeport, adding: “Our continued investment in infrastructure, equipment and technology ensures we remain well positioned to handle the latest generation of container vessels while supporting the future needs of global maritime trade.”

CMA CGM VP Line, Philippe Lesbros, said: “The maiden call of the CMA CGM Berenice in Malta is a strong illustration of CMA CGM’s commitment to the energy transition of shipping. As one of the latest additions to our fleet, this 16,000-TEU methanol dual-fuel vessel combines alternative-fuel capability with the highest standards of efficiency and innovation. This first call also reflects the strong and longstanding ties between CMA CGM and Malta, a strategic hub at the heart of our Mediterranean network.”

As previously reported, Berenice was delivered in China on 24 June at a naming ceremony attended by representatives from CMA CGM, Jiangnan Shipyard, China Shipbuilding Trading Co., Bureau Veritas, and other parties.