Maersk reopens Baltimore bookings with AGAS and AMEX services

COPENHAGEN : Maersk has announced an update on its services to the Port of Baltimore, reopening bookings for direct loading and discharge on the upcoming voyages.

The Danish ocean carrier noted that the following bookings have opened:

AGAS service

1. Import to BAL – Dubai Express 421n – ETA June 1 (departing Cartagena, CO – May 19; departing Manzanillo, PA – May 20)
2. Export from BAL – Dubai Express 422S – ETD June 1

AMEX service

1. Import to BAL – Nele Maersk 417N –ETA June 11 (departing Cape Town, SA – May 23)
2. Export from BAL – Nele Maersk 422S – ETD June 11

Maersk pointed out that bookings for Transatlantic services and Baltimore exports on TP12 have not yet reopened. “We will reopen once we have more information on channel conditions for vessels deployed on these services,” said the company.

Imports to Baltimore from Asia are open for acceptance, however are subject to space availability. AGAS and AMEX are open to bookings now because those vessels can use the Fort McHenry Limited Access Channel, which is not accessible for vessels utilized currently on Transpacific or Transatlantic services.

Maersk noted that the situation in the Port of Baltimore remains fluid and booking is contingent on space availability. “Our ability to call Baltimore will ultimately rely on the refloating timeline and the Captain of the Port officially opening the port and/or the fourth alternative channel that was previously closed,” said the liner operator in a statement.

Vessels may be re-directed to another port on the United States East Coast if the timeline prevents them from calling Baltimore, according to the Maersk’s announcement.