The world's largest methanol dual-fuel container ship, "Oriental Wisdom," was officially named in Nantong, Jiangsu Province, on May 8. The ship's captain, Lin Yijun, and chief engineer, Chen Dengfei, both core management crew members, are outstanding graduates of Zhejiang International Maritime College (formerly Zhoushan Navigation School), showcasing the institution's robust maritime talent cultivation and the prestigious "Zhoushan Seafarer" brand.
Constructed by Nantong COSCO KHI Ship Engineering Co., Ltd., the "Oriental Wisdom" is the first 24,000 TEU-class methanol dual-fuel container ship for Orient Overseas Container Line. With a maximum capacity of 24,168 TEUs, it measures 399.99 meters in length and 61.3 meters in width, with a deadweight tonnage of 225,000 tons. The vessel operates at a service speed of 22.7 knots and is equipped with the world's largest methanol dual-fuel main engine, auxiliary engine, and boiler, allowing flexible fuel switching. It reduces annual carbon dioxide emissions by approximately 150,000 tons, setting a benchmark for decarbonization in shipping.
After trial voyages later this month, the ship will serve European routes, led by the "Zhoushan Seafarer" team under the command of these two alumni from Zhejiang International Maritime College. Lin Yijun and Chen Dengfei have extensive experience in ocean shipping, with their professional expertise and practical skills widely recognized in the industry. In June 2023, both served as management-level crew on the ultra-large container ship "Oriental Turkey." Their appointment to command the world's most advanced green intelligent vessel reaffirms their comprehensive capabilities.
To adapt to the methanol dual-fuel system, the two alumni, along with half of the "Zhoushan Seafarers" on board, completed specialized training and obtained certification, demonstrating their proficiency in operating this significant national asset.
As a vocational college with distinct maritime characteristics, Zhejiang International Maritime College consistently aligns with international shipping standards, focusing on core disciplines such as navigation technology and marine engineering. The institution has developed a talent cultivation system integrating "academic education + vocational training + international cooperation." In collaboration with Orient Overseas, the college established a maritime academy, deeply addressing the needs of green shipping and intelligent vessel industries. It has trained over 170,000 seafarers, providing solid support for the "Zhoushan Seafarer" talent pipeline.
In recent years, the college has continuously optimized courses related to green ships and new energy propulsion, helping students master cutting-edge skills such as dual-fuel systems and intelligent energy efficiency management to meet the global shipping industry's low-carbon transition demands. The appointment of these two alumni to command the "Oriental Wisdom" exemplifies the precise alignment between the college's talent cultivation and industry needs.
Moving forward, the college will continue to advance maritime education, enhance the "Zhoushan Seafarer" brand, and contribute more high-quality technical and skilled professionals to support China's green, intelligent, and international shipping development, aiding in the construction of a maritime and shipping powerhouse.
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