“The call is testament to international shipping trust in Port of Colombo”
- Keith D. Bernard, Chairman SLPA
The container vessel MV EVER ARM made its first call at the Colombo East Container Terminal (CECT) on September 5, 2024. The vessel is part of Evergreen’s fleet, operating on the China-Europe-Mediterranean (CEM) route, sailing under the Taiwanese flag. This call marks a significant milestone for the Sri Lanka Ports Authority (SLPA), which operates the CECT terminal.
MV EVER ARM, measuring 400 meters in length and 60 meters in beam, boasts a substantial summer draught of 17.027 meters and an advanced propulsion system that enhances its operational efficiency and cargo capacity.
Built by Samsung Heavy Industries Co., Ltd. at their Geoje Shipyard in 2022, the vessel has a gross tonnage of 235,579 and a deadweight capacity of 241,960 metric tonnes. It is designed to accommodate up to 24,000 TEUs, exemplifying the modern standards of container ships.
The 55-meter-high ship-to-shore cranes at CECT ensured smooth operations during the vessel’s stay at the Port of Colombo. After departing from Rotterdam Maasvlakte, MV EVER ARM is currently en route to Kaohsiung, Taiwan.
Commenting on the occasion, SLPA Chairman – Mr. Keith D. Bernard said that the vessel’s call is a testament to the trust the international shipping, maritime, and logistics sectors place on the efficiency and modern developments at the Port of Colombo. The Sri Lanka Ports Authority is well geared with the latest state of art equipment, facilities and competencies to meet the demands of the present and future global maritime sector.
Expressing views, the Additional Managing Director (Operations) at SLPA – Mr. Lal Weerasinghe said that the landmark achievement reflects the excellence of the Sri Lanka Ports Authority and the Port of Colombo as a whole. “It showcases the cutting-edge technology and modern infrastructure at CECT, the newly commissioned deep-water terminal in our port,” he added.
The first call of MV EVER ARM at the SLPA-controlled CECT highlights the Port of Colombo’s capability to handle the latest generation of ultra-large container vessels, reinforcing its strategic importance in global maritime trade. The successful operation of the vessel at CECT also affirms the Port of Colombo’s role as a premier hub for international trade and consolidating its position as a key player in the global maritime sector.
Evergreen Shipping Agency Lanka (Pvt) Ltd., is the local agent for the vessel.