Why it matters: The arrival of the Elenoire container ship marks a significant milestone for UK shipping capabilities and reinforces Felixstowe's position as a key international trade gateway.
The big picture: The successful docking demonstrates how recent infrastructure investments are allowing the Port of Felixstowe to accommodate the world's largest vessels. Felixstowe, which handles more than 40% of the UK's containerised goods, is now the only UK port capable of receiving ships with a 17-metre draught.
By the numbers:
Ship's draught: 17.1 metres
Channel deepening investment: £130 million
Channel depth increased from 14.5 metres to 16.0 metres
What they're saying: William Barker, Marine Director and Harbour Master at Harwich Haven Authority, said: "No other port in the UK has the depth of water to accommodate vessels with a draught of 17 metres."
"I couldn't be more proud of what we have achieved and I am very lucky to lead such a great team of people," he added.
Behind the scenes: The vessel arrived from Tanjung Pelapas, Malaysia, under the guidance of Harwich Haven Authority's specialist pilots and support teams.
Wider context: The success comes as MSC and Hapag-Lloyd recently announced their decision to move their Asia-North Europe routes from Felixstowe to London Gateway, potentially highlighting a growing infrastructure gap between Suffolk and Essex, with business leaders, experts and campaigners warning that the Port of Felixstowe's future depends on urgent infrastructure improvements.
Concern as Port of Felixstowe loses major shipping routes to expanding London Gateway
The loss of major shipping routes to London Gateway highlights a growing infrastructure gap between Suffolk and Essex, with business leaders, experts and campaigners warning that the Port of Felixstowe's future depends on urgent transport improvements.
The bottom line: The record-breaking arrival positions Felixstowe as a leading European trade hub, capable of handling the next generation of mega-ships.
