23-Oct-2000

The New World Alliance has commenced calls in Felixstowe on its new Atlantic Pacific Express route, which forms part of a three string service operated jointly with Maersk Sealand.

The Danube (3,733 TEU) made its inaugural call on Sunday 21 October. She was the first ever Mitsui OSK Lines (MOL) vessel to
call at the UK’s largest container port.

“Being one of the world’s largest shipowners it is very fitting to see MOL’s own ships in this port,” said David Poore General Manager of MOL Europe’s UK office. He also felt that the fast transits to the US East Coast, incorporating an 8 day fast passage to New York, would set new standards of service in the UK export market.

The occasion was marked by a reception on board the vessel during which Chris Gray, Managing Director of the Port of Felixstowe and Chief Executive of Hutchison Ports (UK) Limited, presented the Ship’s Master with a commemorative plaque.

Commenting at the reception Mr Gray said:

“We are delighted that the New World Alliance has selected the Port of Felixstowe as its UK port of call for this important service. Felixstowe has long been the leading UK port for trade with North America and this weekly service further enhances the range of options we can offer UK importers and exporters.”

After leaving Felixstowe, the Danube sailed for New York. She will call at a range of ports on the US East Coast before transiting the Panama Canal and heading for the Far East.