Grimaldi delivers ammonia-ready PCTC Grande Manila

Grimaldi Group celebrated the delivery and christening of its new Pure Car & Truck Carrier (PCTC), Grande Manila, in Shanghai. This is the Group’s seventh ammonia-ready vessel, designed for future use of ammonia as a zero-carbon fuel.

The ship was built by SWS (Shanghai Waigaoqiao Shipbuilding) and CSTC (China Shipbuilding Trading Company), part of China State Shipbuilding Corporation (CSSC). The Grande Manila will soon begin her maiden voyage on the Asia–Europe service.

Vessel Overview

Length: 200 meters
Beam: 38 meters
Gross tonnage: ~77,500 tons
Loading capacity: 9,241 CEU (Car Equivalent Units)
Decks: Four, capable of carrying heavy rolling cargo up to 250 tons and 6.5 meters high

The Grande Manila can carry cars, SUVs, vans, electric vehicles, and other rolling cargo efficiently. The vessel’s name honors Manila and the Philippine maritime community, highlighting the country’s growing role in Grimaldi’s network.

Ceremony and Partnerships
Attendees included Zhang Wei, Vice President of SWS, and Luigi Pacella Grimaldi, Automotive Intercontinental Director of Grimaldi Group. Doris Ho, President and CEO of Magsaysay Group, served as godmother.

The Magsaysay Group partners with Grimaldi Marine Partners to employ thousands of Filipino seafarers. Grimaldi Managing Director Emanuele Grimaldi stated: “Grande Manila marks a milestone in fleet expansion and modernisation. Filipino seafarers are key to our operations. Through our partnership with Magsaysay Group, we reaffirm our commitment to their growth and well-being. Adding Philippine ports strengthens sustainable trade and supports the country’s economy.”

Maiden Voyage
The Grande Manila departs Taicang, China, this week, carrying over 5,800 cars and 1,300 linear meters of rolling cargo (buses, trucks, excavators, wheel loaders). The cargo will reach the UK, Spain, Belgium, and via Antwerp transshipment, other Northern European and Mediterranean destinations. The vessel will return to East Asia by late April.

Technology and Sustainability
The Grande Manila features a state-of-the-art electronic engine, offering low fuel consumption and compliance with strict CO₂, NOx, and SOx emission limits.

Thanks to her efficient design and advanced systems, the vessel reduces CO₂ emissions per cargo unit by up to 50% compared to previous PCTCs.

Ammonia-Ready and Green Features

RINA “Ammonia Ready” class notation ensures future conversion to ammonia fuel.
Equipped for shore power supply (cold ironing) to reduce fuel use while docked.

The Grande Manila combines high efficiency, environmental compliance, and versatility, reinforcing Grimaldi’s commitment to sustainable shipping and strong ties with the Philippines.

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