Mediterranean Shipping Company (MSC) has expanded its fleet with impressive orders for ultra-large container vessels (ULCVs) in China. The recently delivered ULCV, the MSC Tessa, is part of a new class of ULCVs. With a capacity rating of 24,116 TEU, it is currently the largest containership worldwide.

Notably, the MSC Tessa incorporates energy-saving technologies, including an air lubrication system and shaft generators, to enhance efficiency and reduce drag. MSC’s new class of ULCVs comprises 14 vessels with similar design features. These orders were distributed among several shipyards in China, including Hudong-Zhonghua (a shipyard within the China State Shipbuilding Corporation) in Shanghai and Yangzijiang Shipbuilding Group. Beyond ULCVs, MSC has ventured into cruise ferries. In collaboration with Onorato Armatori, MSC signed a contract to build four luxury roll-on/roll-off cruise ferries in China. These ferries will accommodate 2,500 passengers and have a capacity of 3,765 lane meters.

Rumours suggest additional orders for MSC: 21,000 TEU LNG dual-fuel ships are expected to be built at Jiangsu Hantong shipyard, with delivery scheduled between 2027 and 2028. Whispers also mention a series of 11,000 TEU LNG dual-fuel units at Penglai Jinglu shipyard. These strategic moves signal MSC’s independent operation on major east-west trade routes as it ends its vessel-sharing agreement with Maersk.