Pacific International Lines (PIL) celebrated the official welcoming of the Kota Orkid, the fourth of its ‘O’ class LNG dual-fuel containerships, at a ceremony held at the Yangzijiang shipyard in Jiangsu, China. This new 8,200 TEU vessel is part of the shipping line’s fleet modernization program.
The naming ceremony was attended by Mrs. Annie Yap as the ship’s godmother, who highlighted the symbolism of the name, inspired by Singapore’s national flower, as a representation of resilience and progress.
More connectivity between Asia and West Africa
The vessel Kota Orkid will immediately join PIL’s South West Africa Service (SWS), alongside her sister vessels Kota Oasis, Kota Ocean and Kota Odyssey. Their addition will enable PIL to enhance its operational capacity on key routes, especially in the Asia-West Africa trade.
The commissioning of our eighth newbuilding vessel in the last year marks another step in our fleet expansion and renewal strategy. As we expand our LNG-powered fleet, we are not only investing in capacity and technology, but also in greener shipping. This vessel will play a key role in enhancing our service offering and providing greater value to our customers.
Mr. SS Teo, Executive President of PIL.
Innovation in the service of sustainability
The company already has four 14,000 TEU The company already has four 14,000 TEU dual-fuel vessels on order and has 12 more on order with capacities ranging from 9,000 to 13,000 TEU, scheduled for delivery in the next few years. These vessels are equipped with state-of-the-art engines capable of significantly reducing methane emissions and adapting to the use of biomethane.
A long-term strategy
PIL’s commitment to the use of LNG as a transition fuel reflects a broader trend in the industry, where 72% of current orders include alternative propulsion. With the integration of the Kota Orkid vessel, the shipping line reaffirms its role as a key player in the evolution of shipping towards more sustainable practices.
Source and photo: Pacific International Lines
