A groundbreaking transatlantic container service has been announced, offering unparalleled speed for Ireland to North America routes.
- The collaboration between ACL, BG Freight Line, and Peel Ports promises transit times up to two weeks faster.
- The new service will enhance connectivity between Dublin, Belfast, and major North American ports.
- Liverpool will serve as the pivotal European port, avoiding other stops to reduce transit times.
- The venture is expected to boost sustainability by decreasing fuel consumption.
A groundbreaking transatlantic container service has been announced, linking Ireland with North America at unprecedented speeds. This innovative service, a collaboration between Atlantic Container Line (ACL), BG Freight Line, and Peel Ports Group, pledges to reduce transit times by up to two weeks compared to existing routes. The service aims to offer importers and exporters direct access to major ports in Halifax, New York, Baltimore, and Norfolk via the Port of Liverpool.
The strategic use of Liverpool as the exclusive European entry and exit point significantly cuts transit times by bypassing additional European ports. BG Freight Line’s Irish Sea hub feeder service, complemented by ACL’s G4 Con-Ro vessels, will enhance connectivity between Dublin, Belfast, and North America’s extensive market.
The companies involved have optimised their schedules to minimise connection times at Liverpool, with both ACL and BG Freight Line being granted berth priority. David Huck, COO of Peel Ports Group, highlighted the enhanced control over service management, citing reduced transit times and increased service differentiation.
Koert Luitwieler, Chief Executive of BG Freight Line, noted the reliability improvements owing to the newly established schedule, emphasising the considerable upgrade over existing services. The service promises not only faster delivery but also increased reliability due to the extended schedule.
Sustainability is also a crucial aspect of this venture, with the route requiring less fuel due to decreased steaming times to and from Belfast and Dublin. Liverpool’s strategic location, being the closest deep-sea port to both Dublin and Belfast, further underscores the efficiency of this service.
Andrew Abbott, CEO of ACL, expressed enthusiasm about the improved service offerings, positioning it as a superior alternative to other continental and UK port routes. The first eastbound sail of this service, Atlantic Sun, initiated its journey from New York, with subsequent stops in Baltimore, Liverpool, Dublin, and Belfast.
This partnership marks a significant advancement in transatlantic shipping, enhancing both speed and sustainability.
