PIL’s 14K TEU LNG dual-fuel boxship duo named in China

Singapore-based shipping company Pacific International Lines (PIL) has named its first two 14,000 TEU LNG dual-fuel container vessels built at Jiangnan Shipyard in China as part of the liner’s fleet renewal program.

The two vessels, which were named Kota Eagle and Kota Emerald at a ceremony on October 15, are the largest in PIL’s fleet and also the first to fully run on LNG.

The 14,000 TEU vessels have an overall length of 335 meters and a width of 51 meters. They are equipped with GTT’s Mark III LNG containment system and feature a high container intake as well as various energy-saving technologies such as hull coatings, an optimized hull form, and variable frequency drive motors.

The ships will also use artificial intelligence (AI) and the Internet of Things (IoT) which will increase the automation of tasks and enable better monitoring and planning of the vessels’ operations and routes through PIL’s Centre for Maritime Efficiency, the company explained.

Once delivered, Kota Eagle and Kota Emerald will sail from the Far East to Latin America on PIL’s West Coast Central and South America Service 2 route.

Lars Kastrup, CEO of PIL, commented: “It is a happy occasion for us to name the first two of our 14,000 TEU LNG dual-fuel vessels. Taking delivery of these highly efficient vessels which run on LNG from their maiden voyage is a major milestone in our sustainability journey. They will contribute to reducing our carbon footprint as part of our strategy to transition to net zero emissions by 2050.

“These were the first dual-fuel LNG container vessels ordered by an Asian container shipping line in 2022. Together with another 11 new dual-fuel ships we have on order, they mark the start of our programme to renew and modernise our fleet. They will complement the existing vessels in our fleet and boost our connectivity around the world to better service customers.

“As market trends change and sustainable shipping solutions grow in importance, we ensure that we are Future-Focused and well prepared to meet the evolving needs of the industry. In line with our purpose of Putting Customers First, our new vessels feature the latest technological and digital advancements which optimise operational efficiency and enhance our services.”

PIL has 11 other LNG dual-fuel containerships on order, including two 14,000 TEU vessels, four 8,000 TEU vessels, and five 13,000 TEU vessels. They will be progressively delivered in the next few years.