CMA CGM VP describes Malta as ‘a strategic hub’ as massive ship arrives at Freeport

A Vice President of CMA CGM, one of the largest container shipping companies in the world, has described Malta as “a strategic hub at the heart of our Mediterranean network," marking the arrival of the largest methanol dual-fuel container vessel to call at the Malta Freeport.

This arrival reflects the “strong and longstanding ties” between CMA CGM and Malta, CMA CGM VP of the Asia-Mediterranean, Adriatic, East Med & Black sea lines Philippe Lesbros said

Measuring 366 metres in length, with a beam of 51 metres and a nominal capacity of 16,204 TEUs, the CMA CGM Berenice is the fifth vessel in a series of six methanol dual-fuel container ships introduced by CMA CGM as part of the group’s fleet renewal and decarbonisation strategy.

Sailing under the Maltese flag, the vessel combines alternative-fuel capability with advanced engineering features designed to improve fuel efficiency and reduce emissions.

Mr 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.”

Sailing under the Maltese flag, the vessel combines alternative-fuel capability with advanced engineering features designed to improve fuel efficiency and reduce emissions.

The vessel called at Malta Freeport on the MEX 1 Asia-Mediterranean service berthing at Terminal One, where cargo operations were carried out using [five] megamax quay cranes.

Malta Freeport Terminals CEO Alex Montebello said: “The arrival of CMA CGM Berenice reflects both the confidence placed in Malta Freeport Terminals by CMA CGM, the largest customer of Malta Freeport and one of the world's leading shipping groups transitioning towards more sustainable operations.”

“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,” he said.

The vessel’s arrival represents another milestone for Malta Freeport Terminals, demonstrating the facility’s ability to accommodate and efficiently handle the latest generation of container vessels while reinforcing Malta's strategic role as a key transhipment hub connecting major international markets, the Freeport said.