South Korea’s Ministry of Oceans and Fisheries, along with the Panstar Group, announced that the containership Panstar Arco has successfully completed the initial leg of its demonstration voyage on the Northern Sea Route, arriving in the UK and Rotterdam. Currently docked in Rotterdam, the vessel is preparing for its return trip, aimed at showcasing the route’s potential while gathering vital data on the challenges encountered during Arctic navigation.
The journey from Busan, South Korea, to Felixstowe in the UK took 21 days, followed by an additional day to reach Rotterdam, slightly behind the expected timeline. Despite this, the ship encountered no major issues during transit. After departing Busan on August 22, it entered Arctic waters on August 31 and passed the western section of the route by September 9. The total distance covered was approximately 13,000 km (nearly 8,100 miles), significantly shorter than the typical 20,000 km (12,500 miles) route via the Suez Canal.
Carrying 737 TEUs of cargo, including chemicals and used vehicles, the Panstar Arco faced a shortfall in its cargo load due to limited booking time and uncertainties surrounding the inaugural voyage. The crew consisted of 20 members, including a Korean captain and experienced polar navigator from the South Korean icebreaker Araon, who assisted in gathering technical data on polar navigation.
The vessel experienced challenges, including drifting ice near Wrangel Island, which necessitated an overnight stop. Strong winds and currents also affected its speed and maneuverability in the Laptev Sea. The Panstar Arco reached Felixstowe on September 12 and Rotterdam on September 13, with plans to load additional cargo in Gdynia, Poland, before its scheduled return to Busan on October 12. South Korea aims to establish regular Arctic shipping routes by 2030, following earlier trials in 2013, 2015, and 2016.
