Maersk Announces Updates for Baltimore Services

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

The Danish ocean carrier noted that bookings are now open for the following services:

AGAS service:

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

AMEX service:

Import to BAL – Nele Maersk 417N – ETA June 11 (departing Cape Town, SA – May 23)
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 now open for acceptance but are subject to space availability. AGAS and AMEX are open to bookings because those vessels can use the Fort McHenry Limited Access Channel, which is not accessible for vessels currently utilized on Transpacific or Transatlantic services.

Maersk noted that the situation at 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.

According to Maersk's announcement, vessels may be redirected to another port on the United States East Coast if the timeline prevents them from calling at Baltimore.