This significant occasion marks the midway completion of AAL’s extensive fleet expansion endeavor, resonating with its dedication to offering sustainable, high-capacity shipping solutions that cater to the changing requirements of the multipurpose (MPP) heavy-lift shipping sector. Additionally, the event is a precursor to AAL’s impending 30th anniversary festivities in 2025.
The 32,000 deadweight tonnage (dwt) ‘AAL Antwerp’, equipped for methanol use and designed as a multipurpose heavy lift vessel, was officially named on November 15th during a ceremonial event at the CSSC Huangpu-Wenchong Shipyard in Guangzhou, China, with notable guests from the regional MPP supply chain in attendance.
Capable of conveying in excess of 90,000 freight tons of varied cargo and boasting a cumulative lifting capacity of 700 tonnes, the ship is engineered to accommodate a diverse range of cargo, from heavy lift project equipment to breakbulk and dry bulk concurrently. AAL’s fleet is distinguished for its proficiency in managing multifaceted cargo operations, backed by specialized teams in chartering, operations, and engineering that enhance economies of scale for cargo shippers.
Post-ceremony, the AAL Antwerp will embark on its inaugural voyage, joining its fleet mates AAL Limassol, AAL Hamburg, and AAL Houston in serving project cargo routes that link Asia, Europe, the Middle East, and the Americas.
Frank Mueller, General Manager of Oceania at AAL Shipping, remarked, “Amidst the current uncertainties in the global shipping industry as we approach 2025, reaching this milestone underscores AAL’s unwavering commitment to delivering unparalleled sailing reliability, flexibility, and cost-effective solutions to our MPP cargo clientele.”
The impending vessels of the Super B-Class series, including the AAL Newcastle and AAL Mumbai, are on schedule for delivery between now and 2026. These future ships will offer an improved maximum heavy lift capacity of 800 tonnes.
Mueller further stated, “The construction and deployment of one of the largest and most modern fleets in the project sector is not the full scope of our investment in enhancing our service offerings. We are actively engaged in training programs to cultivate the expertise of our staff at all levels and equip them with cutting-edge systems and processes – all underpinned by a commitment to sustainability and sound governance.”