On 13 December 2014, Yantian International Container Terminals (YICT) celebrated the maiden call of the CSCL Globe, the world’s largest container vessel with a carrying capacity of 19,100 TEU. The CSCL Globe measures 400 metres long and approximately 60 metres wide, with its deck alone covering an area equivalent to four football pitches. It is deployed in China Shipping Group’s Asia-Europe service, and is the first of the five 19,100-TEU vessels under the liner’s vessel fleet. During the maiden voyage of the CSCL Globe at YICT, approximately 5,000 TEU were handled. This was a testament to YICT’s position as the preferred port-of-call for mega-vessels and the leading container hub port linking South China to the rest of the world.

The handling of mega-vessels is a monumental undertaking, made possible only through a select few ports with advantageous deep-water berths and advanced operating capabilities. With its 17.4-metre draft and 74 quay cranes available for service, 51 of which are super post-Panamax types, YICT can accommodate the world’s largest container vessels. Its advanced terminal facilities and excellent handling capacity has made it a preferred port-of-call for mega-vessels. In 2013, approximately 95% of the world’s super mega-vessels with a carrying capacity in excess of 10,000 TEU called at YICT on a regular basis.

YICT, in cooperation with China Shipping Group, held an event to celebrate this landmark occasion with Huang Min, Director-General of the Transport Commission of Shenzhen Municipality; Zhang Guofa, Director and President of China Shipping Group; and about 200 guests including customers and representatives from the government and port authorities in attendance.