Strategic Partnership for Fleet Efficiency
Seaspan Corporation and A.P. Moller – Maersk have announced a deepened strategic collaboration to enhance the efficiency of their time-chartered fleet. Building on more than 20 years of partnership, the two companies are advancing a comprehensive vessel efficiency programme across 18 vessels on long-term charter to Maersk. The programme aims to unlock measurable gains in fuel efficiency, cargo capacity, operational flexibility, and emissions reduction.
High-Impact Retrofit Solutions
As a cornerstone initiative, the partners have jointly developed high-impact retrofit solutions for four 13,000 TEU vessels, representing one of the most significant upgrade programs for the shared Seaspan – Maersk time charter fleet. The retrofit solution includes installation of a shaft generator to reduce auxiliary engine fuel consumption, main engine performance optimisation, a new high-efficiency propeller and pre-swirl device to improve propulsion efficiency, and carbon capture readiness to prepare vessels for future emissions regulations. Additionally, the lashing bridge will be elevated to increase cargo carrying capacity, and deadweight will be increased to enhance loading capability. These measures are expected to improve the vessel’s slot cost by approximately 10–13% while enhancing fuel efficiency, operational performance, and regulatory readiness.
Investment and Collaboration
To date, combined investments in fleet upgrades for the 18 vessels, completed and planned, are approximately USD $75 million, with further initiatives under development to support continued decarbonization and performance gains. Separately, WattSpan—a strategic maritime technology and engineering joint-venture partner to Seaspan—has joined Maersk and COSCO Shipyard in signing a non-binding Memorandum of Cooperation, establishing a one-year framework for collaboration on vessel upgrades, energy efficiency improvements, and maritime decarbonization technologies. Initiatives include joint development, information sharing, and future project execution under separate commercial agreements.
Industry Impact
“This partnership reflects the kind of practical, high-impact collaboration needed to advance decarbonization across the maritime industry,” said Dimitrios Panagopoulos, Chief Fleet Operations Officer at Seaspan. “By working closely with Maersk, WattSpan, and COSCO Shipyard, we are combining technical expertise, operational insight, and long-term investment to improve vessel performance today while preparing our fleet for the fuels and technologies of the future. It is a strong example of how trusted partnerships can deliver meaningful progress at scale.”
