The order follows a previous contract for five 13,000 TEU LNG dual-fuel container vessels from the same shipbuilder earlier this year. Credit: Pacific International Lines.

Pacific International Lines (PIL) has ramped up its fleet renewal strategy by ordering another five 9,000 TEU liquefied natural gas (LNG) dual-fuel container vessels.

The ships, contracted with Hudong-Zhonghua Shipbuilding, are slated for delivery in 2027 and 2028, marking a significant step towards enhancing PIL’s service capabilities and environmental sustainability.

The new vessels will feature advanced cargo stowage options and are designed to run on LNG, with the potential to switch to bio-methane.

The order follows a previous contract for five 13,000 TEU LNG dual-fuel container vessels from the same shipbuilder earlier this year.

These ships will be equipped with cutting-edge digital technologies, including AI and IoT, to facilitate real-time monitoring and automate various operational tasks.

The digital enhancements aim to optimise route planning and cargo management, ensuring PIL provides timely and reliable service to its customers.

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PIL CEO Lars Kastrup said: “With 18 newbuild vessels ordered in the last couple of years, PIL is demonstrating our commitment to renew, expand and modernise our fleet. Our aim is to replace up to half our fleet in the next decade with modern new ships and charters.

“These ships are a significant step towards our green shipping goal of achieving net zero emissions by 2050, while increasing operational and cost efficiencies, improving services to our customers as well as enhancing the welfare of our crew.”

The vessels will adhere to the International Maritime Organisation’s (IMO) standards for energy efficiency and carbon intensity.

They will incorporate energy-saving features such as a streamlined hull, VFD motors, shaft generators, LED lighting, and advanced hull coatings.

Including this new order, PIL’s recent investments will total 18 newbuild vessels since 2022, including various classes ranging from 8,000 to 14,000 TEU capacity.

The fleet expansion includes the recently named 14,000 TEU vessels, Kota Eagle and Kota Emerald, with Kota Eagle having commenced service in late October 2024.