On March 8, the world’s largest 24,000 TEU liquefied natural gas (LNG) dual-fuel ultra-large container ship (Hull No. H1904A) completed its sea trial and safely berthed at No. 3 quay of Hudong-Zhonghua Shipbuilding’s western plant.
The vessel is the first in a series of four 24,000 TEU-class dual-fuel powered container ships ordered by France’s CMA CGM Group at Hudong-Zhonghua Shipbuilding. It is also an upgraded and optimized version of the world’s first 23,000 TEU dual-fuel powered container ship, which was completed and delivered by Hudong-Zhonghua Shipbuilding in September 2020, representing a new generation of environmentally friendly ultra-large container ships.
The vessel boasts an overall length of 399 meters, a beam of 61.3 meters, a depth of 33.5 meters, and a design draft of 14.5 meters. Capable of carrying 220,000 tons of cargo, it can accommodate 23,872 containers in a single load, including space for 2,200 standard refrigerated containers. With a maximum container stacking height of 24 tiers, equivalent to the height of a 22-story building, this vessel stands as a new generation of maritime “green giant” and “cargo king”.
During the sea trials, the vessel encountered strong winds exceeding level 9. The trial team closely monitored the storm’s trajectory and promptly adjusted the inspection items, formulating an hourly-based testing plan with clear responsibilities assigned for each task. Additionally, a project allocation system between the shipowner and the classification society was implemented to maximize resource coordination, prioritizing the completion of main engine fuel tests, speed measurement, anchor drop tests, and hull performance evaluations.
The gas-related tests, speed trials, and unmanned engine room inspections were efficiently completed, with all projects passing on the first attempt. Key performance indicators and equipment operations met the relevant technical requirements and standards, and the efficient sea trials received high praise from both the shipowner and the classification society.