Matson Christens New Aloha Class Vessel 'Makua'

Matson, Inc. and Hanwha Philly Shipyard, Inc. (HPSI) celebrated the christening of the new containership 'Makua' at HPSI's shipyard in Philadelphia on Saturday, October 10. This is the first of three new vessels Matson has ordered for its China-Long Beach Express (CLX) and Hawaii services.

During the ceremony, Matson board member Jenai Wall officially christened the vessel by breaking a champagne bottle against its hull. Approximately 300 guests attended, including U.S. Maritime Administration Deputy Administrator Mark Johnson, along with executives from Matson and HPSI.

The three new vessels, representing an investment of approximately $1 billion, are being built to Jones Act standards and will match the size and speed of Matson's two existing Aloha Class ships. The new vessels weigh over 51,400 metric tons, have a capacity of 3,600 TEU, and a top speed of nearly 24 knots, enhancing delivery reliability to Hawaii and transit times from Asia to the U.S. West Coast.

Similar to their sister ships, the new vessels will be equipped with dual-fuel engines capable of running on conventional marine fuels or liquefied natural gas (LNG), along with other green ship technologies. 'Makua' is scheduled for delivery in the first quarter of 2027, with the second vessel to follow in the third quarter of 2027 and the third in the second quarter of 2028.

Matson Chairman and CEO Matt Cox stated that the addition of the three new Aloha Class ships will improve operating efficiencies, reliability, and capacity in Matson's core services. He also highlighted the project's support for American shipyard jobs and creation of employment opportunities for U.S. mariners.