DP World Handles Longest Containership Ever

DP World Southampton welcomed today (Friday 13 February 2009) the
Marit Maersk, setting a new record as the longest containership to call at Southampton in the terminal’s history.

The Marit Maersk at a length of 367 metres and a capacity of nearly 7,000 TEU made a one off call at the terminal during a positioning voyage from Europe to the Far East. The vessel is scheduled to depart the terminal later today (Friday 13 February 2009) destined for Hamburg.

Talking about the new record, Campbell Mason, Managing Director, DP World Southampton, said:

“We are delighted to welcome the Captain and crew of the Marit Maersk on her maiden call to Southampton, as she sets a new record for the longest vessel ever to call at DP World Southampton. Looking beyond the current trading situation, the industry is trending toward ever larger vessels and we are continuing to expand our shipside operational capability to meet the longer term needs of our customers. ”

Mark Cornwell, Operations Director, Maersk Line UK & Ireland, added:

“As one of our newest vessels, the Marit Maersk includes many industry-leading technological and operational innovations which help preserve the environment. This includes a main engine and waste heat recovery system designed to achieve up to 10% reduced fuel consumption. We are very pleased that the Marit Maersk was able to play a part in this important milestone in the terminal’s history and demonstrate Maersk Line's continued commitment to providing reliable transportation solutions for our customers in the UK.”

During the vessel’s visit the traditional plaque presentation took place between Captain Benny Rasmussen (vessel’s master), Stuart Morris (DP World Southampton’s Shift Manager), Captain Phil Holliday (ABP Southampton’s Harbour Master) and Geoff Lock (Maersk Line’s Operations Manager).

Notes to Editors

1. DP World Southampton is the UK's second largest container terminal.
2. In 2007, DP World Southampton handled 1.9 million TEU - a 26% increase compared to 2006 (1.5 million TEU).
3. DP World is one of the largest marine terminal operators in the world, with 44 terminals and 13 new developments across 28 countries.
4. In 2007, DP World handled more than 43.3 million TEU across its portfolio - an increase of 18% on 2006.

As at 1 March 2008