Assembly Begins on Matson’s New “Aloha Class” Ships at Philly Shipyard

Hanwha Philly Shipyard and Matson have officially launched the construction of the first of three new Aloha Class containerships, marking a significant milestone in American shipbuilding. The initial block of the vessel, named Makua, was lowered into the dry dock on August 4, signaling the start of hull assembly. This project follows Matson’s order placed in November 2022, with steel cutting commencing last September.

Significance of the Keel Laying Ceremony

The keel laying ceremony was highlighted by the placement of the first engine room section, weighing an impressive 420 metric tons, into the dry dock. This event not only marks the beginning of a new ship but also underscores the strong partnership between Hanwha Philly Shipyard and Matson. David Kim, CEO of Hanwha Philly Shipyard, emphasized the importance of this collaboration, stating, “Today’s keel laying marks more than the beginning of another great ship — it symbolizes the strength of our ongoing partnership with Matson and our shared commitment to American shipbuilding.”

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This project is particularly significant for Hanwha Philly Shipyard, which was acquired by South Korea’s Hanwha Systems and Hanwha Ocean at the end of 2024. The company aims to utilize its shipbuilding expertise to explore new opportunities in the American market, with this being the first commercial endeavor since the change in ownership. The new Aloha Class ships will join Matson’s fleet, which already includes two previously built vessels of the same class, enhancing the company’s operational capabilities.

Details of the Aloha Class Ships

The new Aloha Class containerships will each measure 854 feet in length and have a carrying capacity of 3,600 twenty-foot equivalent units (TEU). Designed for speed and efficiency, these vessels are expected to operate at speeds exceeding 23 knots, reinforcing Matson’s reputation for fast and reliable delivery across its trade routes, including Hawaii, Guam, and the China-Long Beach Express (CLX).

In addition to their impressive size and speed, the new ships will feature a more fuel-efficient hull design and dual-fuel engines, allowing them to operate on liquefied natural gas (LNG). This advancement aligns with Matson’s commitment to sustainability and operational efficiency. The three new Aloha Class ships will replace three existing vessels currently in service and are scheduled for delivery in 2027 and 2028.

Matt Cox, Chairman and CEO of Matson, highlighted the broader impact of this project, stating, “These new ships are just the latest Jones Act vessels Matson has built with Philly Shipyard over the past 22 years, supporting 1,500 jobs for skilled American workers and providing additional opportunities for American mariners.” This initiative not only strengthens Matson’s fleet but also contributes to the American maritime industry as a whole.