ABS to Class Maersk Line's Second Generation Triple-E Mega-Ships

Maersk Line's first Triple E, Maersk Mckinney Moller, was launched in 2013.

ABS Wednesday announced it has been selected to class Maersk Line's 11, second generation Triple-E ultra-large containerships (ULCs).

Maersk Line confirmed its $1.8 billion order for the 19,630 TEU capacity container ships, which includes options to build up to six additional vessels, last month.

"ABS is pleased that the Maersk Group has expressed its continued confidence by classing these innovative ships with us," says ABS Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer Tony Nassif.

"ABS offices worldwide, working in unison, are providing support and analysis for Maersk in the latest standards and international codes, including the energy efficiency standards measured and mandated by the IMO."

The vessels will be built at Daewoo Shipbuilding & Marine Engineering (DSME) of South Korea and ABS was also chosen to class 20 of the Triple-E containerships that Maersk ordered from the same shipyard four years ago.

"While the new additions will be slightly larger the owner indicated energy efficiency, economy of scale and the environment are still central considerations," ABS noted.

"Much like the first generation of Triple-E containerships this second order will allow the carrier to further increase operational efficiencies over and above those of other vessels involved in the Asia to Europe trade while maintaining its market share in line with container trade volumes."

The newbuildings, which will be the largest containerships in the Danish carrier's fleet, are due for delivery between April 2017 and May 2018.

Also on Wednesday, Maersk Line said it has placed a separate $1.1 billion order for nine 14,000 TEU capacity containerships.