The dual-fuel, methanol-ready vessel is due to enter service between Asia and Europe almost immediately, and is expected to complete its first methanol bunkering shortly after delivery.

"As the first vessel in our new Shaper Class series, ARCTIC TERN reflects our commitment to investing in the future of shipping," says Xavier Leroi, COO Shipping Services at Wallenius Wilhelmsen and CEO of EUKOR Car Carriers. He describes the class as a critical building block in the company's ambition to offer net-zero end-to-end services as early as 2027.

Wallenius Marine oversaw site management and delivery readiness at the shipyard, while Wilhelmsen Ship Management prepared the vessel for commercial operation and takes over ship management following delivery. "These vessels represent cutting-edge maritime technology and managing them safely and efficiently will require the full strength of our technical expertise, operational capabilities, and highly skilled crews," says Håkon Lenz, President and CEO of Wilhelmsen Ship Management.

ARCTIC TERN also inaugurates a new naming tradition for the Shaper Class, drawing on birds known for long migrations — the Arctic tern undertakes the longest migration of any species on Earth.

ARCTIC TERN will be followed by another 13 Shaper Class vessels, the last eight of which will be even larger at 234 metres, with a record-breaking car capacity of 12,100 units.

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