CMA CGM Andromeda Sets a New Terminal Record at DP World Southampton

On Saturday 18 April 2009, DP World Southampton welcomed the CMA CGM Andromeda, as part of her inaugural deployment between Asia and Europe, as she set a new record for the largest containership to ever be handled at the terminal.

CMA CGM Andromeda weighs 131,000 gross tonnes, is 363 metres in length and has a capacity of up to 11,400 TEU. 

Campbell Mason, Managing Director, DP World Southampton, said:

“We were delighted to welcome the CMA CGM Andromeda, her captain and crew to Southampton, as her first port of call in Western Europe, on her inaugural voyage between Asia and Europe.

This is another milestone in the container port’s history.  A key reason for our heavy investment in enhanced operational capability, such as super post-panamax cranes is to meet the ongoing industry trend toward larger vessels which enable shipping lines to derive economies of scale.  We are growing to meet our customers’ needs.”

During the vessel’s visit, the traditional plaque presentation took place onboard between Stuart Morris, Shift Manager, DP World Southampton and Captain Igor Sikic, CMA CGM Andromeda’s Captain.

CMA CGM Andromeda, which will be carrying dry cargo such as manufactured goods destined for the high street, is the latest in a succession of record arrivals for DP World Southampton.

In February, Marit Maersk was the longest-ever vessel to call at Southampton. She is four metres longer than CMA CGM Andromeda but has less carrying capacity.

Last November the CMA CGM Vela, at 347m and with an 11,040 TEU capacity, took the crown from the CMA CGM Orfeo before being eclipsed by the CMA CGM Andromeda.

The vessel is also reportedly one of the most environmentally-friendly ships in the world.  Her Fast Oil Recovery System eliminates the need to hole the vessel’s hull, in the event of an emergency, which in turn reduces the risk of oil escaping.  The ship’s electronically-controlled main engine is able to optimize fuel and lubricants consumption, which are respectively reduced by 3% and 25%.  Other green measures include onboard waste recycling and a module that allows the vessel to plug into alternative power sources.