- Gemini is well-positioned for terminal operations across key global regions as its alliance nears its launch in February 2025.
- The hub and spoke model will use major hubs and shuttle vessels to regional ports.
- Gemini has a strong operational capacity, particularly in North Europe and the Mediterranean.
Gemini is the upcoming alliance between Maersk and Hapag-Lloyd. It is well-prepared for efficient terminal operations across major regions ahead of its February 2025 launch. Experts from Drewry Shipping have highlighted the carriers’ strategic port infrastructure. It will happen in North Europe, the Mediterranean, and other key areas, reports Seatrade Maritime.
Challenges at Hamburg
Hamburg’s Altenweder Terminal poses a challenge due to larger ships being unable to pass under the Köhlbrandbrücke bridge. However, both carriers have backup capacity, with Maersk at Bremerhaven and Hapag-Lloyd at Wilhelmshaven, ensuring smooth operations.
Gemini will employ a hub and spoke model. It will be using major hubs for cargo consolidation and shuttle vessels to deliver freight to regional ports. This system will enhance the operational efficiency and reduce delays.
Strong Relationships at Non-Owned Terminals
According to Drewry’s Eleanor Hadland, Gemini’s exposure to non-stakeholder terminals is minimal. The carriers’ long-standing relationships at such terminals, including Jebel Ali, Saudi Arabian Red Sea ports, and Shanghai transshipment, should ensure smooth operations.
“Gemini is in a good position to start with very little exposure to ports and terminals where neither carrier has a shareholding.”
Hadland estimates that 70% of the terminals Gemini will call at are either operated or partly owned by Maersk or Hapag-Lloyd. It will reduce operational risks and improve schedule reliability.
Caribbean Port Call at Cartegena
One notable port call on the Caribbean coast of Columbia at Cartagena is where neither carrier has a direct stake. However, Hadland noted that this port will handle a single weekly shuttle. It would connect non-Gemini Latin American services along South America’s east coast.
In North Europe and the Mediterranean, Hapag-Lloyd strongly supports Gemini’s stake in the Tanger terminal and Maersk’s ownership of two terminals in Tangier. It was to provide excess capacity to meet demand.
“Terminals at Tangier are exceptional, world class,” said Hadland, “their crane performance is up there with the highest in the world and they operate a ‘just-in-time’, no wait arrival system too.”
Central Europe and the Red Sea Ports
Hapag-Lloyd’s acquisition of the Spinelli Group in Genoa ensures that Gemini will meet service schedules in these regions with ample capacity. It is along with Maersk’s and Hapag-Lloyd’s strong presence in Suez and the Red Sea.
Gemini’s overlap in Egypt, with Hapag-Lloyd’s terminal at Damietta and Maersk’s APM Terminals at the Suez Canal, offers additional spare capacity. It ensures the carriers can maintain their operational efficiency.
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Source: Seatrade Maritime
