Cool Carriers Takes Delivery of First Ship in New Snow Class

Why It Matters

The new high‑cube capacity and greener engines boost Cool Carriers’ competitiveness in global fruit logistics while aligning with tightening environmental regulations.

Key Takeaways

• First Snow class vessel delivered, named Snow Flower
• Holds 5,000 high‑cube pallets, 168 reefers
• Deck height 2.5 m enables full high‑cube cargo
• Engines comply with IMO/EU 2030 emissions rules
• Fleet renewal adds seven vessels by 2028

Pulse Analysis

The global refrigerated cargo market has been reshaped by rising demand for fresh fruit, especially high‑cube pallets that maximize container space. Cool Carriers, the world’s largest specialized reefer operator, has taken delivery of Snow Flower, the inaugural vessel of a seven‑ship Snow class built by Japan’s Kitanihon Shipbuilding. By dedicating an entire deck to high‑cube cargo, the new class eliminates the compromise between standard and high‑cube pallets, offering exporters a more efficient loading solution and reducing per‑ton shipping costs.

Snow Flower can transport up to 5,000 high‑cube pallets and 168 refrigerated containers, with a cargo volume of 630,000‑660,000 cubic feet and a service speed of 18 knots. Its 2.5‑meter deck height aligns with the internal height of modern reefers, allowing seamless stacking and improved cargo handling. The vessel also incorporates a modern hull form and energy‑efficient propulsion system designed to meet IMO and EU emissions standards through 2030, positioning the fleet for tighter environmental regulations while lowering fuel consumption.

The delivery marks a key milestone in Cool Carriers’ fleet renewal strategy, which aims to boost capacity on high‑value routes such as New Zealand‑Europe, Chile‑U.S., and South‑America‑Europe. With seven Snow class ships scheduled for delivery by 2028, the company will increase its total pallet capacity to roughly 14,000 per vessel, reinforcing its market leadership in perishable goods logistics. The combination of high‑cube capability and greener technology not only strengthens the firm’s competitive edge but also signals a broader industry shift toward more sustainable, volume‑optimized refrigerated shipping.