Russia: First NSR International Boxship Route to Start as Box Volume Grows

Russian officials are emphasizing a significant uptick in shipping activity along the Northern Sea Route (NSR), particularly for containerships. In just ten days, the first containership on an international route to European ports is expected to commence its transit through the NSR. Recent data indicates a modest increase in traffic along this Arctic shipping route compared to last year.

First Containership to Follow New Route

The Liberian-flagged containership Istanbul Bridge, with a capacity of 66,781 dwt and 4,950 TEU, is currently completing an eastbound transit. According to Rosatom, the vessel is scheduled to depart on September 15 for a westbound journey. This marks a significant milestone as it will be the first containership to follow a route originating from China, with planned stops at major ports including Felixstowe, Rotterdam, and Hamburg before arriving in St. Petersburg.

Dry Bulk Market: “Rising Tides” as Water Levels Drop in Various Hubs

During the Eastern Economic Forum, Rosatom executives reported that container vessel traffic on the NSR is increasing, driven by international shipping. Last year, only 14 containerships made the transit, but this year, they project that more than 20 will complete the journey. All vessels utilizing the NSR must secure permits from Rosatom, underscoring the regulatory framework governing Arctic shipping.

Traffic Trends and Future Projections

A mid-season analysis by the Center for High North Logistics supports these optimistic projections. Their review of AIS data revealed that transits during the first half of the season reached 52 by the end of August, up from 45 the previous year. This includes 17 completed transits, 10 nearing completion, and 12 vessels currently within the NSR area. Additionally, 13 more ships have begun their scheduled sailings through the NSR.

The analysis indicates a balanced distribution of eastbound and westbound transits, with tankers primarily traveling east laden and returning west in ballast. Tankers remain the most frequently used vessels on the NSR, with 13 voyages recorded, alongside two LNG tanker trips. Bulk carriers and containerships are tied with 10 voyages each, although only three of the eastbound bulkers were reported to be carrying cargo. In contrast, it is assumed that most containerships are transporting goods, primarily from Russia to China.

Looking ahead, September, October, and November are expected to be busy months for the NSR. However, residual ice remains a concern, particularly in the eastern part of the East Siberian Sea. The final data for the NSR will not be available until the end of the year, leaving some uncertainty regarding the accuracy of the reported growth and the progress toward achieving year-round transit goals set by Russian President Vladimir Putin.