The scale of global shipping in 2025 is nothing short of extraordinary. As trade volumes grow and decarbonisation efforts accelerate, the world’s leading carriers are deploying record-breaking vessels that redefine what’s possible at sea.
Ultra-large container vessels (ULCVs) represent the pinnacle of maritime engineering. At approximately 400 metres in length and over 60 metres in beam, they are designed to maximise economies of scale on major global trade routes.
Many of these vessels are further equipped with advanced technology, including hybrid scrubbers, air lubrication systems to reduce hull friction, and emissions-reduction capabilities.
Top 10 largest containerships by TEU capacity in 2025*
| Rank | Ship (Class) | TEU Capacity | Operator | Length (m) | Beam (m) | Year Delivered |
| 1 | MSC Irina (Irina Class) | 24,346 | MSC | 399.9 | 61.3 | 2023 |
| 2 | OOCL Spain (G Class) | 24,188 | OOCL | 399.9 | 61.3 | 2023 |
| 3 | ONE Innovation (I Class) | 24,136 | ONE | 399.9 | 61.4 | 2023 |
| 4 | MSC Tessa (Tessa Class) | 24,116 | MSC | 399.9 | 61.5 | 2023 |
| 5 | Ever Alot (Ever A Class) | 24,004 | Evergreen Marine | 399.9 | 61.5 | 2022 |
| 6 | Ever Ace (Ever A Class) | 23,992 | Evergreen Marine | 399.9 | 61.5 | 2021 |
| 7 | HMM Algeciras (Algeciras Class) | 23,964 | HMM | 399.9 | 61.0 | 2020 |
| 8 | CMA CGM Seine (Jacques Saadé Class) | 23,876 | CMA CGM | 399.9 | 61.3 | 2025 |
| 9 | HMM Oslo (Algeciras Class) | 23,820 | HMM | 399.9 | 61.5 | 2020 |
| 10 | MSC Gülsün (Gülsün Class) | 23,756 | MSC | 399.9 | 61.5 | 2019 |
READ: Global trade shifts spark ULCVs boom
The game changer: The Green Sealion 27500
While the above vessels represent the state-of-the-art in service today, all eyes are now on the Green Sealion 27500 – a next-generation containership under construction by China State Shipbuilding Corporation (CSSC).
Planned to be the first vessel to break the 27,000 TEU threshold, the Green Sealion 27500 will set a new benchmark in the industry with a projected capacity of 27,500 TEUs.
The vessel’s design received Approval in Principle in late 2024, and while construction is currently underway, the delivery date and operator have yet to be announced.
Among its notable features:
- Dual-fuel LNG propulsion for reduced greenhouse gas emissions
- Shore power compatibility, enabling zero-emission operations while berthed
- Smart technologies, integrated into vessel operations to enhance efficiency and sustainability
READ: HD KSOE pushes nuclear-powered containership design
The arrival of ever-larger containerships is driving a profound global reconsideration of port infrastructure, digitalisation, and green facilities.
Leading maritime hubs such as Singapore, Port Klang, and Shanghai in Asia, alongside European centres including Rotterdam and Hamburg, are actively upgrading to accommodate these maritime giants.
Quay cranes are being modernised to span over 24 container rows, reflecting the increasing width of today’s ultra-large container vessels.
Environmental infrastructure is evolving rapidly, with ports installing LNG bunkering stations and shore power systems that enable vessels to achieve zero emissions while docked.
At the same time, ports are embracing smart technologies, utilising real-time data, predictive analytics, and digital twin platforms to optimise cargo flows and minimise turnaround times.