AAL Shipping, has reached a significant milestone in its fleet expansion program with the formal naming of the AAL Antwerp, the fourth vessel in its third-generation Super B-Class fleet. This event marks the halfway point of an eight-vessel series, reinforcing AAL’s dedication to providing sustainable, high-capacity shipping solutions for the evolving multipurpose (MPP) project heavy lift sector. The occasion also serves as a prelude to the carrier’s 30th-anniversary celebrations, set to take place in 2025.
The AAL Antwerp, a 32,000 dwt methanol-ready multipurpose heavy lift vessel, was officially named on November 15 at the CSSC Huangpu-Wenchong Shipyard in Guangzhou, China. The ceremony, attended by dignitaries from the local MPP supply chain, highlighted the vessel’s capabilities. With the capacity to transport over 90,000 freight tons and a combined lifting capability of 700 tonnes, the AAL Antwerp is designed to handle diverse cargo types, including heavy lift project equipment, breakbulk, and dry bulk, all on a single voyage.
Following the ceremony, the AAL Antwerp embarked on her maiden voyage, joining sister vessels AAL Limassol, AAL Hamburg, and AAL Houston to service project cargo customers across Asia, Europe, the Middle East, and the Americas.
“With so many unknowns surrounding the global shipping sector moving into 2025, this milestone illustrates AAL’s clear mission to provide our multipurpose cargo customers with unmatched sailing integrity, adaptability, and competitive solutions,” said Frank Mueller, General Manager Oceania at AAL Shipping. “Our investment extends beyond fleet expansion to include active training programs, state-of-the-art systems, and sustainable practices.”
The Super B-Class series is set to grow further, with the remaining vessels, including the AAL Newcastle and AAL Mumbai, to be delivered by 2026. These ships will feature an increased maximum heavy lift capability of 800 tonnes.
