A.P. Moller – Maersk (Maersk) is strengthening its Asia–Europe network by adding Antwerp to the rotation of its AE1 service, a key loop within the carrier's East–West network and the Gemini Cooperation. The move reinforces Antwerp's position as a strategic Northern European gateway while expanding routing options for shippers across the trade. Under the revised rotation, AE1 will call Shanghai, Yantian, Tanjung Pelepas, Rotterdam, Hamburg, Antwerp, London Gateway, Tangier TC1, Tangier TC3 and Singapore.
By integrating Antwerp into this established corridor, Maersk is deepening connectivity between major Asian export hubs and core European consumer and industrial markets. The first westbound sailing under the updated rotation will be operated by Hamburg Express, voyage 610W, departing Shanghai on 6 March 2026. The vessel will offer direct access to Northern European gateways including Hamburg and Antwerp on its European rotation.
Adding Antwerp is part of Maersk's strategy to diversify European hinterland connectivity and creates time advantages for shippers along the Belgium–Netherlands axis. The multi-call rotation offers a more flexible service model that absorbs terminal congestion delays. The update supports Gemini Cooperation's high schedule reliability objective.
Key Takeaways:
1. Maersk adds Antwerp to the AE1 Asia–Europe service rotation, building a 10-port loop.
2. Rotation: Shanghai, Yantian, Tanjung Pelepas, Rotterdam, Hamburg, Antwerp, London Gateway, Tangier TC1, Tangier TC3 and Singapore.
3. The first westbound sailing will be operated by Hamburg Express, departing Shanghai on 6 March 2026.
4. Adding Antwerp delivers new hinterland options for shippers along the Belgium–Netherlands axis.
5. The move supports the Gemini Cooperation schedule reliability objective.
