Maersk is modifying the OC1 service, which operates between Oceania and the Americas. Vessels that previously used the Panama Canal will now bypass it, utilizing a “land bridge” with rail transport across Panama.
While recognizing the potential impact on cargo movements, Maersk aims to minimize delays. Due to current and projected water levels in Gatun Lake, the Panama Canal Authority (ACP) has enforced reductions in the number and weight of vessels passing through.
The vessels that utilized the Panama Canal before will now omit the Panama Canal and use a “land bridge” that utilize rail to transport cargo across the 80 km of Panama to the other side.
This creates two separate loops, one Atlantic and one Pacific. Pacific vessels will turn at Balboa, Panama, dropping off cargo heading for Latin America and North America and picking up cargo heading for Australia and New Zealand.
Furthermore, Atlantic vessels will turn at Manzanillo, Panama, dropping off cargo heading for Australia and New Zealand and picking up cargo heading for Latin and North America.
