P&O Maritime Logistics is entering the container carrying market after recently completing what it says is the first-ever container fitting modification to the deck of a Multi-Carrying Vessel (MCV). The newly modified MCVs are to support Unifeeder to alleviate supply chain constraints.
The containerised market entry marks a first for P&O Maritime Logistics and comes off the back of the maritime solutions provider working with customer Unifeeder on providing services on container routes with low number of containers, but a need for a fast turnaround due to logistics limitations, low volume high frequency routes.
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Container carrying MCVs
P&O Maritime Logistics’ MCV fleet is now more flexible as it will be able to carry 20-foot, 40-foot and 45-foot containers when container capacity is most in need in addition to the original design to transport general and oversized project cargo.
The new model of container carrying MCVs provide a solution to the high demand of container carriers in Europe – alleviating pressure on supply chains being felt across the continent and worldwide. Container fitted MCVs are ideal for lower volume, high frequency shortsea routes as well as trade routes through rivers and to shallow water ports like the transit between Turkey and the Caspian via the Russian rivers, where multiple vessels are expected to be employed next year.
An additional five vessels are expected to undergo container fitting in the future.
Currently, several MCVs are delivering wind turbine blades, large process modules, reactors, and pressure vessels on shortsea routes and in the open season of the Volga Don Canal, with further deliveries expected in 2022.
