Top 10 Largest Cargo Ships in the World

After some time, CMA CGM Alexander von Humboldt was replaced by Emma Maersk as the largest container ship in the world. It was recognized as the seventh largest ship globally and has an intriguing history surrounding it. In 2006, this enormous vessel was introduced, gradually becoming the largest container ship ever built. About four years later, Emma Maersk shared the title of the longest container ship in history with seven other ships.

Ranked at number 6, the Maersk Mc-Kinney Moller is one of the largest cargo vessels in terms of TEU capacity. It was recognized as the world's longest service vessel in 2003. The ship was constructed by Daewoo Shipbuilding & Marine Engineering (DSME) of South Korea, and after a lengthy construction process, it was launched in July 2013. This massive ship is 399 meters long and can travel up to 23 nautical miles per day.

Esso Atlantic is perhaps one of the most well-known massive ships. Not only is it famous for its impressive length and width, but it is also regarded as one of the most beautiful vessels ever built. According to experts, this ship has a deadweight tonnage of over 516,890 tons and was capable of serving for 30 years. Originally used for transporting oil, it was decommissioned in 2002 in Pakistan after an extended period of service. Given its colossal size and long service history, it undoubtedly deserves a spot on this list.

Built in 1976 by Chantiers de l'Atlantique in Saint-Nazaire, the Batillus was another colossal oil tanker. Preliminary studies show that Batillus was the largest ship in the world when it was launched. It measured an astounding 414.22 meters in length and could carry up to 552,000 tons. Sadly, on December 28, 1985, this magnificent vessel completed its final journey.

Next in line, the third largest oil tanker in the world is the Pierre Guillaumat. Named after the French politician and founder of Elf Aquitaine, Pierre Guillaumat, this oil tanker was constructed in 1977. Weighing an impressive 555,000 tons and stretching approximately 414.22 meters, it was built by Chantiers de l'Atlantique in Saint-Nazaire for Compagnie Nationale de Navigation. Sadly, after serving for some time, it eventually was retired and turned into scrap.

Taking the second spot is the massive Seawise Giant, a ship with an impressive length of 445 meters. Also known by several other names such as Oppama, Jahre Viking, Knock Nevis, and Happy Giant, this vessel was constructed in 1979 by Sumitomo Heavy Industries Ltd. During the Iran-Iraq war, it sustained significant damage, sinking to the bottom of the ocean. However, the wreckage was eventually salvaged, repaired, and put back into service. Unfortunately, by December 2009, it was once again scrapped.

Claiming the top spot on this list is the Prelude FLNG, the largest ship in the world, measuring a staggering 488 meters in length. This vessel has even been compared to the Empire State Building, one of the tallest skyscrapers in the world. It was brought into service in South Korea in 2003.

Experts estimate that the FLNG Prelude weighs around 600,000 tons—an astonishing weight, far heavier than the largest aircraft carriers ever built.

Did you know that most of the largest ships ever built have either been scrapped or were designed as oil tankers? The TI Class Tanker is not only massive in size but also features an eye-catching design.

Reports suggest that this ship is the fourth largest double-hull oil tanker in the world. It was built to transport crude oil across vast distances. The ship's impressive length reaches 380 meters.

The Berge Emperor holds the title of the ninth largest ship in the world and is well known as one of the biggest oil tankers ever built. Constructed in 1957 by Japanese engineer Mitsui, the ship weighed a massive 211,360 tons and stretched 381.82 meters in length. Initially, it was owned by Bergesen D.Y & Co.

In 1985, the ship was sold to Maastow BV and was renamed the Emperor. Unfortunately, in 1986, the once-great ship was reduced to scrap metal in Kaohsiung.

Ranked 8th on the list, the CMA CGM Alexander von Humboldt is known as the largest container ship created by the Maersk Triple E Class. Why does this vessel make it to the top 10 largest ships? It's because of its impressive size: measuring 396 meters in length and weighing a staggering 187,624 tons.

The Maersk Triple E Class gave this colossal ship the name Alexander von Humboldt, one of the most immense ships I've ever encountered.