Bureau Veritas (BV) has classed CMA CGM NOTRE DAME, the first vessel in CMA CGM’s new series of 24,000 TEU LNG dual-fuel ultra-large container ships (ULCS) built by Jiangsu Yangzi Xinfu Shipbuilding.
The vessel was delivered in May 2026 and marks a milestone for Chinese shipbuilding in the construction of next-generation mega containerships.
Measuring 399.9 metres in length and 61.3 metres in beam, CMA CGM NOTRE DAME can carry 24,092 TEU. The vessel is powered by an LNG dual-fuel propulsion system designed to reduce emissions of sulphur oxides, nitrogen oxides and carbon dioxide.
BV worked closely with the shipyard and designers during the project. The classification society reviewed key design elements, including structural reinforcement and vessel layout. Bureau Veritas Solutions Marine & Offshore (BVS) also carried out hull optimisation work to improve cargo capacity and energy efficiency, while conducting safety assessments of the LNG fuel tank arrangement.
During construction, BV surveyors inspected critical processes, including large thin-plate welding, shaft alignment and the installation of the LNG fuel storage and fuel gas supply systems.
BV said the project highlights its growing cooperation with both CMA CGM and Yangzi Xinfu on advanced and lower-emission vessel programmes.
More than 200 vessels in CMA CGM’s fleet are currently classed by BV, while over 50 additional vessels are under construction under BV classification, including LNG dual-fuel and methanol-powered ships.
