Port of Montevideo Welcomes Largest Ro-Ro Vessel in Its History

The Port of Montevideo received the Grande Melbourne, the highest-capacity Ro-Ro vessel to have called at its facilities to date. The vessel, operated under Grimaldi Group and KMA Uruguay, was highlighted by port authorities as a milestone for rolling cargo operations at the Uruguayan terminal.

Built in 2025, the Grande Melbourne has a capacity of 9,241 CEU spread across four decks, with a length overall of 200 meters and a beam of 38 meters. The vessel is equipped with a state-of-the-art electronic engine that delivers one of the lowest specific fuel consumption rates in its class and complies with the strictest international limits for CO₂, NOx, and SOx emissions. According to the company, its design and size allow for a reduction in the CO₂ emissions index per unit of cargo carried of up to 50% compared to previous generations of PCTC vessels.

KMA Uruguay stated that the arrival of the Grande Melbourne reaffirms the importance of the Port of Montevideo as a strategic hub for Ro-Ro operations and the distribution of vehicles and cargo in the region, strengthening maritime connectivity and opportunities for international trade. The company added that, together with Grimaldi Group, it renews its commitment to the country's port and logistics development, promoting innovation and more sustainable shipping solutions.

Another Grimaldi vessel, the Grande Oriente, with a capacity of 9,000 CEU and a length overall of 220 meters, is expected to arrive in Montevideo in November. According to Portal Portuario, the vessel was delivered to Grimaldi this past July, while datamar news reported that delivery took place in late June. The Grande Oriente obtained Ammonia Ready certification from RINA, the Italian classification society, which certifies its capability to operate in the future using ammonia as an alternative fuel with no direct carbon dioxide emissions from combustion.