SIMIC

BANGKOKMAX container ships were initially designed to access the city port of Bangkok on the Chao Phraya River, reports Container News.

However, these vessels have now gained popularity for regional trade in Asia and other parts of the world.



According to a report released by Alphaliner on May 10, the dimensions of Bangkokmax ships, which have a maximum length of 172 metres, make them suitable for regional routes, accommodating 1,700 to 1,900 TEU.



In recent times, Bangkokmax vessels have expanded their presence in various regions, including the Mediterranean, South America, the Caribbean Basin, the Middle East, Africa, Australia and New Zealand as well as the Pacific Islands.



Alphaliner predicts that Bangkokmax ships will gain even more favour due to the aging feeder fleet in the Atlantic region and the closure of numerous shipyards in Europe.



The exit of JJ Sietas in Germany, which used to be a major builder of Atlantic-based feeder tonnage up to 1,700 TEU, has also contributed to this trend.



The intra-Asia trade represents the largest market for Bangkokmax ships, with 196 vessels currently in service, accounting for 70 per cent of the Bangkokmax fleet.



This year, there has been a noticeable increase in demand for Bangkokmax vessels in Atlantic and American trading.



Three newly built Bangkokmax ships, along with a unit from 2013, have already been deployed for these routes.



This growing demand has resulted in a resurgence of newbuilding activity, with companies like Reederei Nord and XT Shipping recently placing orders for these vessels.



Earlier this month, Reederei Nord broke a seven-year hiatus in newbuilding orders by contracting two 1,900 TEU Bangkokmax units from CSSC Huangpu Wenchong Shipbuilding, with options for an additional two vessels.