Maersk and Hapag-Lloyd Confirm ‘Cape’ Route for Gemini Cooperation Launch
Maersk and Hapag-Lloyd have announced they will use the Cape of Good Hope route for the launch of their “Gemini Cooperation” starting on February 1, 2025. This decision highlights ongoing concerns about safety in the Red Sea, where tensions remain due to attacks on shipping linked to the Iran-backed Houthis.
Initially, the companies had considered two options for the new service: either the Red Sea route or the Cape of Good Hope. However, due to continued security risks, they have chosen the Cape route.
In a joint statement, Maersk and Hapag-Lloyd emphasized that their priority is the safety of ships and crew. They plan to return to the Red Sea when it is deemed safe.
The Cape of Good Hope route will feature 29 main services and 28 regional shuttle services, supported by a fleet of around 340 vessels, with a total capacity of 3.7 million TEU. The collaboration between the two shipping giants aims to provide highly reliable schedules, with a target of over 90% reliability, by operating a hub-and-spoke model that connects major hub ports to smaller ports via feeder vessels.
The decision also coincides with Hapag-Lloyd’s exit from THE Alliance at the end of January 2025 and the end of the 2M Alliance between Maersk and MSC Mediterranean Shipping Company.
