Port of Hamburg sees an 83% spike in ULCVs, but still no sign of dredging in the Elbe

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The number of ultra-large container vessels (ULCVs) of 14,000-19,000 teu calling at the port of Hamburg in the second quarter was 83% higher than the same period last year.

Despite the lack of progress in approving deeper navigation channels on the Lower and Outer Elbe, container lines are scheduling their biggest ships to the city port in greater numbers.

According to port officials, the deepening project – which also includes a 385-metre-wide passing point – would enable an ULCV to load an extra 1,800 teu of cargo during its ...