The World’S Largest Container Ships

In the vast expanse of the world’s oceans, giants silently glide, carrying the lifeblood of global trade. These colossal container ships, marvels of modern engineering, are the backbone of the interconnected world, transporting goods across continents with staggering efficiency. As global commerce grows, so does the scale of these vessels, each year setting new records in size, capacity, and innovation.

From Asia’s bustling ports to the significant hubs in Europe, the largest container ships are not just feats of design—they are symbols of the global economy’s relentless march forward. In this article, we explore the world’s biggest container ships, their awe-inspiring capabilities, and the role they play in shaping our modern lives.

The MSC Irina Class represents a cutting-edge leap in container ship design and capacity. Operated by MSC, this class boasts a massive capacity of 24,346 TEUs, making it the largest in the world. With a gross tonnage of 233,328 and a length of 399.95 meters, these ships dominate the seas with their immense size. Built in 2023, the class includes six vessels, all flagged under Liberia, and features a beam of 61.3 meters, ensuring maximum cargo efficiency while navigating global trade routes.

The OOCL Spain Class sets a new benchmark for efficiency and capacity in the shipping industry. Operated by OOCL, this class offers a capacity of 24,136 TEUs and a gross tonnage of 235,311, slightly edging out in tonnage despite its similar capacity to the MSC Irina Class. With eight ships constructed between 2023 and 2024, this class reflects COSCO subsidiary’s commitment to innovation. Measuring 399.9 meters in length with a beam of 61.3 meters, these Hong Kong-flagged vessels are equipped to handle the challenges of modern maritime logistics with unparalleled capability.

The ONE Innovation Class is a testament to the maritime industry’s technological advancements. With a capacity of 24,136 TEUs and a gross tonnage of 235,311, this class is among the largest and most capable in the world. Built in 2023 and operated by ONE, the class consists of six ships, all flagged under Liberia. Measuring 399.95 meters in length and featuring a beam of 61.4 meters, these vessels are designed to maximize cargo capacity while maintaining efficiency in global shipping networks.

The MSC Tessa Class is another monumental addition to MSC’s fleet, reflecting the company’s commitment to dominating global container shipping. With a capacity of 24,116 TEUs and a gross tonnage of 230,757, these ships are designed for efficiency and scale. Built in 2023, the class includes eight vessels, all flagged under Liberia. Measuring 399.9 meters in length and with a beam of 61.5 meters, the vessels represent a perfect balance of size and performance, solidifying MSC’s leadership in maritime logistics.

The Ever Alot Class, operated by Evergreen, stands as a milestone in shipping history as the first class of vessels to surpass the 24,000 TEU mark. With a container capacity of 24,004 TEUs and a gross tonnage of 236,228, these vessels push the boundaries of size and efficiency. Built in 2022, the class includes five vessels, flagged under Panama (two ships) and Singapore (three ships). Measuring 399.9 meters in length and with a beam of 61.5 meters, the Ever Alot Class continues to set the standard for innovation and capacity in the container shipping industry.

The Ever Ace Class, operated by Evergreen, showcases the company’s continued focus on high-capacity shipping. With a capacity of 23,992 TEUs and a gross tonnage of 235,579, this class includes six vessels built between 2021 and 2022. Four ships are flagged with Panama, while two sail under the Taiwanese flag. Measuring 399.9 meters in length and featuring a beam of 61.5 meters, these ships are a vital part of Evergreen’s fleet, ensuring seamless global trade connections.

The HMM Algeciras Class made waves upon its debut in 2020, boasting a capacity of 23,964 TEUs and a gross tonnage of 228,283. Operated by HMM, this class consists of seven vessels, all sailing under the South Korean flag. At 399.9 meters in length and with a beam of 61 meters, these ships marked a significant milestone in the carrier’s efforts to lead the industry with sustainable and efficient maritime logistics.

The HMM Oslo Class, introduced in 2020, demonstrates HMM’s dedication to large-scale efficiency. With a capacity of 23,820 TEUs and a gross tonnage of 232,311, this class includes five South Korea-flagged boxships. Measuring 399.9 meters in length with a beam of 61.5 meters, the HMM Oslo Class is a critical part of the company’s global operations.

The MSC Gülsün Class is a landmark in MSC’s fleet, featuring a capacity of 23,756 TEUs and a gross tonnage of 232,618. Built between 2019 and 2020, this class includes six ships, all sailing under the Panama flag. With a length of 399.9 meters and a beam of 61.5 meters, the MSC Gülsün Class set a new standard for container vessels at the time of its introduction, enhancing the firm’s global shipping capabilities.

The Berlin Express Class is operated by Hapag-Lloyd. Built between 2023 and 2024, the class consists of seven vessels with a box capacity of 23,664 TEUs and a gross tonnage of 229,376. Measuring 399.9 meters in length with a beam of 61 meters, these German-flagged ships are designed for maximum efficiency and reliability in handling global trade demands.

The evolution of container ships over the years reflects the relentless drive for efficiency, scale, and innovation in global trade. From the MSC Irina Class to the Berlin Express Class, these engineering marvels are more than just vessels—they are the lifeblood of the global economy, connecting nations and enabling the seamless movement of goods across continents.

As shipbuilders and shipping companies continue to push the boundaries of capacity and technology, these giants of the seas will remain a testament to human ingenuity and the ever-expanding scope of international commerce.