The Maersk Triple-E will be the world’s largest container vessel class yet the propulsion system is remarkable for its relatively small size and high efficiency. The adoption of a twin skeg propulsion system with two engines driving two propellers heralds a new era in container ship design producing the vessel’s world record efficiency. The lower speed of 23 knots, introduces the opportunity of using an engine with a lower rpm, such as the recently announced MAN B&W G series of ultra long stroke engines. Not only does the G series have a lower specific fuel consumption, it allows the use of a higher efficiency larger diameter propeller. The estimated net benefit for the Triple-E propulsion system is a four per cent energy saving over the PS class single screw system. [More]