CMA CGM names first 24,000 TEU LNG flagship

The CMA CGM Group has named the CMA CGM NOTRE DAME, the first of 10 LNG-powered 24,000 TEU containerships to sail under the French flag.

The naming ceremony took place in Le Havre, marking the introduction of what the company says is the world’s largest LNG-powered containership and the largest vessel sailing under the French flag.

Measuring 399 metres in length with a beam of 61.3 metres, the vessel has a capacity of 24,000 TEUs and will operate on the French Asia Line service between Asia and Europe.

The newbuild is part of CMA CGM Group’s fleet renewal programme, which aims to increase the number of French-flagged vessels from 30 to 40 by 2028.

The expansion is also expected to support the recruitment of 135 French seafarers over the next two years.

Powered by liquefied natural gas (LNG), the vessel is equipped with propulsion technology designed to reduce emissions of sulphur oxides, nitrogen oxides, fine particulate matter and CO2 compared with conventional marine fuels.

It also features digital systems that enable real-time voyage optimisation to improve energy efficiency and operational performance.

Rodolphe Saadé, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of CMA CGM Group, said: “This vessel also embodies a France that is looking to the future. It reflects the bold industrial choices we have made in recent years to usher maritime transport into a new era.

“First, decarbonisation, with one of the most advanced LNG propulsion systems, supporting our ambition to achieve Net Zero Carbon by 2050. Then artificial intelligence, in which I strongly believe. The CMA CGM NOTRE DAME is equipped with systems that enable real-time voyage optimization, improve energy efficiency and enhance the vessel’s environmental performance.”

The vessel’s name pays tribute to the Notre-Dame Cathedral, with Delphine Arnault, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Christian Dior Couture, serving as its godmother during the ceremony.