HHLA TK Estonia Celebrates Arrival of First Methanol Container Vessel in Estonia

HHLA TK Estonia achieved a significant milestone on July 23rd by welcoming the first crude methanol-powered container vessel at the Port of Muuga, marking a pivotal moment in the region's maritime decarbonization efforts. The vessel, named Eco Maestro and operated by X-Press Feeder, is part of the Green Finland X-PRESS (GFX) service. The ship’s route begins in Rotterdam, includes stops in Antwerp, Kotka, and Helsinki (Vuosaari), and culminates with its docking at Muuga Harbour before returning to Rotterdam. This milestone highlights the increasing adoption of sustainable fuel technologies in maritime logistics.

This represents the first instance of a methanol-powered ship docking at Muuga. The Eco Maestro, which operates on green methanol, highlights a significant shift towards sustainable maritime fuels. Green methanol, known for its ability to cut greenhouse gas emissions by up to 65% compared to conventional marine fuels, is produced either from renewable biomass or through the capture of CO2 emissions. This development underscores the port's commitment to environmental sustainability and aligns with broader industry trends towards reducing the carbon footprint of shipping operations. The introduction of such innovative fuel solutions reflects ongoing efforts to enhance the eco-efficiency of maritime logistics.

Riia Sillave, CEO of HHLA TK Estonia, remarked on the new regular service initiated by X-Press Feeders to their container terminal, beginning this spring. The service marks the introduction of methanol-powered vessels to the Baltic Sea, with the Eco Maestro being the first of 14 such vessels ordered. Sillave expressed enthusiasm about partnering with customers who are committed to sustainability and share their vision for a greener logistics industry.

Margus Vihman, CCO of the Port of Tallinn, highlighted the significance of the Eco Maestro's arrival as the first methanol-powered vessel in Estonia, with more expected to follow. He emphasized that this advancement in green technology aligns with the Port of Tallinn's commitment to achieving climate neutrality and creating new opportunities in the logistics sector. Vihman noted that the Eco Maestro’s service will enhance both environmental sustainability and the efficiency of goods transportation, benefiting Estonian exporters and importers with improved regularity and convenience in their European trade routes.

To mark the Eco Maestro's inaugural visit to Muuga, HHLA TK Estonia's Chief Commercial Officer, Andres Uusoja, welcomed the ship's captain, Hristo N. Hristov, onboard, where they exchanged symbolic gifts. The Eco Maestro, which operates under the Maltese flag, is owned by the Singaporean company X-Press Feeder. This event celebrates the vessel's role in advancing sustainable shipping practices and highlights the international collaboration in promoting greener maritime operations.