Hapag-Lloyd confirms first SE1 sailings via Red Sea and Suez Canal

Hapag-Lloyd has confirmed the first westbound and eastbound sailings of the Gemini Cooperation’s SE1 service through the Red Sea and Suez Canal.

The container ship Umm Qarn will operate both voyages.

The announcement follows the earlier decision by Hapag-Lloyd and Maersk to transition selected Gemini services from the Cape of Good Hope route to the Red Sea and Suez Canal.

According to Hapag-Lloyd, its initial transits through the Bab el-Mandeb Strait proceeded as planned and provided operational experience ahead of the SE1 passages.

Each voyage will remain subject to a detailed security assessment. Transits will also take place under naval protection and in coordination with the relevant authorities and security partners.

Hapag-Lloyd stressed that the move represents a gradual, service-specific approach. It does not constitute a full strategic return of the Gemini network to the Red Sea.

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