Hutchison Ports Port of Felixstowe has completed a major dredging project at Berths 8&9, successfully enhancing accessibility for the world’s largest containerships.
This announcement coincides with the maiden call of the OOCL Felixstowe, a colossal 24,188 TEU container vessel operated by Orient Overseas Container Line Ltd. (OOCL).
The project involved deepening the main approach channel and Berths 8&9 at the port. The approach channel’s depth was increased from 14.5 metres to 16 metres, while Berths 8&9 saw their depth augmented from 16 metres to 18 metres below chart datum.
Robert Ashton, Chief Operating Officer of the Port of Felixstowe, said: “The completion of this major dredging project reinforces Felixstowe’s position as one of Europe’s leading ports for the latest generation of mega vessels.
“It provides levels of access that are unequalled anywhere else in the UK. The dredge increases the maximum size of vessel we can handle, the berthing windows for the biggest vessels, and the number of ultra-large vessels that can enter or leave the port on each high tide.
“Most importantly, it provides more flexibility and certainty of service for our customers in an industry where delays can be costly.”
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The port’s commitment to accommodating larger vessels is not new. In 2022, Berths 6&7 were upgraded to handle vessels with capacities exceeding 20,000 TEU.
The dredging project, overseen by Harwich Haven Authority, was carried out by a joint venture of Dutch dredging contractors Royal Boskalis Westminster and Van Oord at a cost of £130 million ($158 million).
Sarah West, Chief Executive of Harwich Haven Authority, added: “The project to deepen the approach channel has been a significant financial investment by the Authority to ensure this vital UK gateway remains competitive and further safeguards the UK’s position as a major trading nation.”
The project also received praise for its environmental considerations, with extensive studies conducted to minimise ecological impact.
