Zim orders mega ships to transit expanded Panama Canal

Zim orders mega ships to transit expanded Panama Canal Israel-based Zim Integrated Shipping Services' board of directors has approved the purchase of eight 12,600-TEU vessels designed to fit through the expanded Panama Canal when that project is completed.
   Zim has been a key carrier in the fast-growing Asia/Florida market, and the addition of the new vessels will impact that market in the years ahead. Several Florida ports are basing parts of their long-term master plans on expected volume increases from the Asia trades when the canal expansion is completed in 2014 or 2015.
   The eight mega ships will cost about $170 million each, Zim said. The order also includes an option for a ninth vessel. The first ships in the order will be delivered at the end of 2009 and in early 2010.
   According to American Shipper's ComPair Data shipping schedules, Zim in involved in three joint services from Asia to Florida:
   ' The Asia Gulf Express service with Emirates Shipping Line that calls at the Port of Tampa.
   ' The Asia-USA Express service with Evergreen Line and Emirates that calls Port Everglades.
   ' The Asia-U.S. West and East coasts service with China Shipping Container Line that calls the Port of Miami.
   In addition to the order for the mega ships, Zim's recently authorized the purchase of eight feeder-sized ships: six with capacities of 1,700 TEUs and two 2,500-TEU vessels. Some of those could be deployed for Zim's feeder services out of its hub in Kingston, Jamaica.