Kenya’s port of Mombasa last week handled the Maersk-operated, MV Clemens Schulte, the first time a container vessel with almost 6000 TEU capacity is calling on the East African coastline.

According to a Kenya Ports Authority statement, ‘The arrival of the ship signifies yet another benefit of the completed capacity expansion projects. The dredging of port entry channel to the depth of minus 15 meters and widening of turning basin to 300 meters at its narrowest point.’

The port management said hosting the ship is a result of expansion works implemented in recent years.

“The other successful key project is the construction of the 240 meter –long Berth 19 which increased the total quay length of Mombasa container terminal to 840m and the container terminal’s capability to accommodate three third generation container vessels at ago,” it reads in part.

“Both dredging and construction of berth 19 have attracted larger vessels to the port of Mombasa, boosting customers’ confidence especially shipping lines,” KPA said.

The deployment of MV Clemens Schulte into the East African Coastline is another key milestone for Maersk which last year introduced a new service by WAF MAX class vessel, the MV Maersk Cairo.

Singapore-flagged MV Clemens Schulte, a gearless vessel discharged 1600 TEUs and loaded 1150 on her maiden call to Mombasa Port.

Built in June 2013, the ship has gross tonnage of 51,872 and a net tonnage of 29,415. It has seven structured cargo holds and 650 reefer sockets. With a total capacity of 5466 TEUs, the vessel can hold 3484 TEUs on its 10 tier deck and another 1982 on her 8 tier hold.

Source: Hellenic Shipping News

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