P&O Maritime Logistics will launch a new container route using Multi-Carrying Vessels (MCVs) across the Red Sea.
In partnership with Unifeeder, P&O Maritime Logistics (both firms owned by DP World) will increase connectivity across the Red Sea between Port of Jeddah and Port Sudan.
As a ‘micro’ feeder, the new MCV line has the ability to bypass congestion.
The shallow draft MCVs utilise less space and can access areas of the port where larger ships cannot fit due to their size and length.
This is useful when connecting feeder ports, such as Port Sudan, with hub ports, such as Port of Jeddah.
Two of P&O Maritime Logistics’ recently modified MCVs, the Topaz Lena and the Topaz Volga, have been contracted for the new route and work has already started for both vessels.
P&O Maritime Logistics began modifying MCVs following the successful trials with the Topaz Lena, where they found they could deliver faster turnaround times to their customers with their cargo. Port turnaround time can be reduced by 70-80 per cent.
The new liner service highlights P&O Maritime Logistics’ return to the Red Sea after 180 years and its expansion into the container carrying market as it is the first time the company crosses the Red Sea carrying containers.
By connecting Port of Jeddah – a key port between Europe and Asia – and Port Sudan, P&O Maritime Logistics delivers a faster-than-anticipated service to shippers.
The MCVs call at different terminals at both Jeddah and Port Sudan.
Martin Helweg, CEO of P&O Maritime Logistics said: “P&O Maritime Logistics provides additional capacity and alleviate the already-stretched global supply chains.
“This is particularly useful on lower-volume, higher-frequency trade routes, such as the Red Sea, where our MCVs can provide a more efficient service to our clients. Seeing such niche feeders operating successfully forms a blueprint for further expansion with new and existing clients.”
P&O Maritime Logistics are modifying a further two vessels and could have as many as 10 modified upon request.
The company said it will also leverage the container modified MCVs with other partners worldwide.
