Thu 7 May 2026, 06:32 GMT | Updated: Thu 7 May 2026, 06:35 GMT | Bunker Index Staff

Hanwha Philly Shipyard advances construction on two LNG-fuelled container ships for Matson


Dock mounting completed for Malama while steel cutting begins on sister vessel Makena.


Malama vessel dock mounting ceremony.
Hanwha Philly Shipyard is constructing LNG-fuelled containerships for Matson’s Aloha Class fleet. Pictured: Dock-mounting ceremony for the LNG-fuelled containership Malama. Image credit: Hanwha Philly Shipyard

Hanwha Philly Shipyard says it has completed dock mounting for the containership Malama and commenced steel cutting for the Makena.

Both vessels are part of Matson’s Aloha Class series of LNG-fuelled container ships.

"Moments like these reflect the strength of our workforce, the precision of our craft, and the continued progress of our shipbuilding program," the shipyard said.

"We’re honored to support Matson in delivering the next generation of vessels and advancing more efficient, sustainable maritime operations," Hanwha Philly added.

Located in Philadelphia's Navy Yard, Hanwha Philly Shipyard constructs vessels for commercial and government customers. Matson operates a fleet of containerships serving routes between the US West Coast and Hawaii, as well as other Pacific markets.

Matson's 3,220-teu Aloha Class vessels are designed specifically for Matson's Hawaii service. The first ship, Daniel K. Inouye, was completed in Q4 2018. This was followed by the completion of Kaimana Hila in Q1 2019. The third vessel in the series, Makua, is due for delivery in Q1 2027, whilst the Malama and Makena are expected to be delivered in Q3 2027 and Q2 2028, respectively.



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