Malta Freeport Terminals Welcomes Largest Methanol Dual-Fuel Container Vessel
Malta Freeport Terminals has welcomed the CMA CGM Berenice on her maiden call to Malta, marking a significant milestone as the largest methanol dual-fuel container vessel to call at Malta Freeport.
Measuring 366 metres in length and 51 metres in beam, the CMA CGM Berenice has a nominal capacity of 16,204 TEUs. The vessel is the fifth in a series of six methanol dual-fuel container ships introduced by CMA CGM as part of its fleet renewal and decarbonisation strategy.
Sailing under the Maltese flag, the vessel combines methanol dual-fuel capability with advanced engineering and hydrodynamic technologies aimed at improving fuel efficiency and reducing emissions. Features include an optimised hull form, an integrated submerged bulbous bow, high-efficiency propulsion systems and energy-saving devices designed to reduce water resistance.
The CMA CGM Berenice called at Malta Freeport as part of the MEX 1 Asia-Mediterranean service, berthing at Terminal One, where cargo operations were carried out using five megamax quay cranes.
Malta Freeport Terminals said the vessel’s arrival demonstrates its capability to accommodate and efficiently handle the latest generation of ultra-large container ships, while strengthening Malta’s position as a strategic transhipment hub connecting major international markets.
CMA CGM Vice President, Line, Philippe Lesbros, said the maiden call demonstrates the company’s commitment to the energy transition in shipping. The vessel’s arrival also highlights the longstanding relationship between CMA CGM and Malta Freeport, a key hub in the carrier’s Mediterranean network.
The call comes as Malta Freeport continues to invest in infrastructure, equipment and technology, including the expansion of Terminal Two. The terminal is also pursuing a long-term decarbonisation programme targeting a 30% reduction in CO₂ emissions by 2030, supported by renewable energy, energy-efficient equipment, operational improvements and onshore power supply.
The maiden call of the CMA CGM Berenice underscores the growing deployment of alternative-fuel vessels and the shipping industry’s accelerating transition towards more energy-efficient and lower-emission operations.