Container Line Commits First Full Service Back To Shorter Suez Route

Maersk Line has become the first global container carrier to fully restore a regular service through the Suez Canal, signalling renewed confidence as security conditions in the Red Sea begin to stabilise.

The Danish shipping group has confirmed that its Middle East–US East Coast Loop (MECL) is once again routing vessels through the canal in both directions. The first eastbound sailing under the reinstated schedule departed Charleston on 10 January, followed by the first westbound voyage which left Jebel Ali on 15 January.

The move comes after a series of successful trial transits that demonstrated the feasibility of returning to the shorter Suez route. Vessels including Maersk Sebarok and Maersk Denver completed recent passages without disruption, helping to reassure the carrier that current conditions allow for a resumption of normal operations.

Despite the decision, Maersk has emphasised that the situation in the region remains under close review. The company has stated that the continuation of MECL services via Suez is dependent on sustained stability, and contingency plans remain in place should security risks increase again.

Since early 2024, the MECL service had been rerouted around the Cape of Good Hope, adding significant time to each voyage. A return to the Suez Canal is expected to cut transit times by up to two weeks and improve operational efficiency, allowing the loop to operate with a 12-vessel string rather than 14.

Suez Canal traffic volumes remain well below historical levels, with fourth-quarter 2025 throughput down 86% year-on-year compared with 2023. However, the decline eased to 60% in the first week of the new year, indicating a tentative recovery in carrier confidence. Croft Cargo will continue to track developments closely.

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