CMA CGM Launches 24,000 TEU LNG Containership NOTRE DAME

CMA CGM celebrated the naming ceremony of the CMA CGM NOTRE DAME in Le Havre on July 2, 2026, the largest French-flagged containership and largest LNG-powered containership globally. Measuring 399 metres in length with 24,000 TEU capacity, it is the first of ten next-generation vessels. The Group will recruit 135 French seafarers, expanding its French-flagged fleet from 30 to 40 vessels by 2028.

2 de julio de 2026 • 3 min de lectura

Imagen de portada - CMA CGM Lanza el Portacontenedores de GNL de 24.000 TEU NOTRE DAME

The CMA CGM Group today celebrated the naming ceremony of the CMA CGM NOTRE DAME in Le Havre, the newest vessel in its fleet.

Measuring nearly 400 metres in length, 61 metres in width and with a capacity of up to 24,000 TEUs, the CMA CGM NOTRE DAME is the largest containership operating under the French flag. It is also the largest LNG-powered containership in the world. Its liquefied natural gas (LNG) propulsion technology significantly reduces emissions of sulphur oxides, fine particulate matter, nitrogen oxides and CO₂ compared with conventional marine fuels.

A Symbol of the Renewal of the French Fleet

The CMA CGM NOTRE DAME is the first in a series of ten next-generation containerships that are larger, more efficient and will all be registered under the French flag.

This commitment, made by Rodolphe Saadé, reflects the Group's determination to make a lasting contribution to strengthening France's maritime sovereignty, support the national merchant navy officer training system and promote the excellence of the French flag on the world's major trade routes.

By 2028, CMA CGM's French-flagged fleet will increase from 30 to 40 vessels. To support this expansion, the Group will recruit 135 French seafarers.

Rodolphe Saadé, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of the CMA CGM Group, said: "This vessel also embodies a France that is looking to the future. It reflects the bold industrial choices we have made in recent years to usher maritime transport into a new era. First, decarbonization, with one of the most advanced LNG propulsion systems, supporting our ambition to achieve Net Zero Carbon by 2050. Then artificial intelligence, in which I strongly believe. The CMA CGM NOTRE DAME is equipped with systems that enable real-time voyage optimization, improve energy efficiency and enhance the vessel's environmental performance."

A New Milestone in the Energy Transition of Maritime Transport

The CMA CGM NOTRE DAME illustrates the decarbonization strategy the Group has been pursuing for several years.

Thanks to its LNG propulsion system, the vessel is part of a trajectory aimed at accelerating the energy transition of maritime transport while maintaining a high level of operational performance on the Group's main Asia-Europe trade lanes.

Showcasing France Across the World's Oceans

The name NOTRE DAME pays tribute to one of the most iconic landmarks of France's cultural heritage.

By carrying this name across the world's oceans, the vessel becomes an ambassador for French industrial, maritime and cultural excellence.

Its godmother, Delphine Arnault, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Christian Dior Couture, embodies this ambition to promote French excellence around the world.

The naming ceremony, held in Le Havre, brought together numerous national and local personalities, including Édouard Philippe, Mayor of Le Havre, representatives of the maritime authorities, elected officials, economic partners, as well as the women and men who operate the vessel every day.