New vessel boosts greener shipping

The new Arctic Tern features dual-fuel capability, methanol readiness and greater cargo capacity. It will enter service almost immediately on the Asia-Europe trade through EUKOR Car Carriers, the jointly owned shipping line of Hyundai Motor Group and Wallenius Wilhelmsen. The vessel is also expected to complete its first methanol bunkering shortly after delivery.

“As the first vessel in our new Shaper Class series, Arctic Tern reflects our commitment to investing in the future of shipping,” said Xavier Leroi, chief operating officer of Shipping Services at Wallenius Wilhelmsen and chief executive of EUKOR Car Carriers.

“These vessels strengthen our ability to deliver reliable and efficient services to customers while supporting the transition towards lower-emission operations. They are also a critical building block in our ambition to offer net-zero end-to-end services as early as 2027.”

The Shaper Class introduces a new naming tradition inspired by migratory birds, with Arctic Tern taking its name from the seabird renowned for undertaking the world’s longest migration. The company said the name reflects the endurance, adaptability and global connectivity central to modern shipping.

The project was delivered through close collaboration between Wallenius, Wilhelmsen, Wallenius Marine and Wilhelmsen Ship Management. Wallenius Marine oversaw site management at the shipyard, while Wilhelmsen Ship Management prepared the vessel for commercial operations.

“With Arctic Tern and the Shaper Class, Wallenius Wilhelmsen is setting a new benchmark in shipping. We aim to set the same benchmark in ship management,” said Håkon Lenz, president and chief executive of Wilhelmsen Ship Management.