Supply chain solutions specialist P&O Ferrymasters is to introduce a service-enhancing change of ferry route on its rail-sea operation moving containers between Italy and Patra in Greece.
From July 1, Ancona will replace Brindisi as home port in Italy under a renewed contract with private rail operator Crossrail that builds on the operation's success over the past two years.
"Overall transit times stay just as fast but Ancona takes us to new levels of current and potential service capability," says P&O Ferrymasters intermodal director Wim Blomme.
Apart from direct rail links, the port offers reefer and IMO reception facilities and major service partners. The rail terminal - within the port area and very close to the ship berths - is run by private operator Frittelli Maritime, while shunting and port formalities will be coordinated by Trans Ferry Spa.
Year-round daily sailings will be provided by Minoan Line, part of the Grimaldi Group. The two newly-built Minoan ferries are the world's largest ro-pax vessels. With room for up to 170 freight units per crossing, weekly capacity to Greece will rise to some 1,200 units. The ships are also fully IMO licensed to carry most hazardous classes.
"The switch will bring more stability to our intermodal offering into Greece while also extending the options for value-added services," adds Blomme. "Furthermore, it will enlarge our product portfolio by underpinning the long-term development of services into Albania and Turkey."