The CMA CGM Group on 26 May announced the delivery of CMA CGM NOTRE DAME, a next-generation LNG-powered containership and currently the largest vessel of its kind.

The ship, began its maiden commercial voyage in Shanghai before heading to France and Europe, with arrival expected in early July. Measuring 400 meters in length, 62 meters in width, and 75 meters in height, the vessel can carry up to 24,212 TEU. As explained, with this addition, CMA CGM continues the modernization of its fleet while reinforcing its commitment to maritime decarbonisation and the broader energy transition, in line with its ambition to reach Net Zero Carbon by 2050.

The vessel has been deployed on the French Asia Line (FAL), the Group’s flagship Asia–Europe service, operating on a 102-day rotation and calling at major ports including Ningbo, Shanghai, Yantian, Singapore, Le Havre, Rotterdam, Hamburg, and Tangier Med—one of the world’s most critical trade corridors for European supply chains.

As stated, beyond its LNG propulsion system, CMA CGM NOTRE DAME incorporates a range of design and energy-efficiency features aimed at reducing environmental impact.

These include:

an aerodynamic windshield system to lower fuel consumption,
a 18,600 m³ LNG tank enabling long-range Asia–Europe operations and;
energy-management systems supporting refrigerated container operations through 1,600 reefer plugs.

Its design also increases cargo capacity by 280 containers without expanding the vessel’s overall dimensions.

Furthermore, the vessel is equipped with advanced digital and AI-driven technologies to enhance operational efficiency and safety. Its fully digitalised bridge provides real-time navigation tools, augmented reality systems, and 360-degree situational awareness to support manoeuvring, particularly in port environments.

CMA CGM NOTRE DAME marks the beginning of a series of 10 LNG-powered vessels named after French heritage landmarks, scheduled for delivery between 2026 and 2028 and to be progressively deployed across major global trade routes.

An inauguration ceremony is scheduled to take place in Le Havre on 2 July, following the vessel’s arrival in France.