Zhenjiang Port breaks the historical record for the largest draft of ships received since the port opened

On October 25, at the Changjiang Pilot Center’s Zhenjiang Station, five pilots successfully guided the Greek bulk carrier “Sibylla,” with a draft of 12 meters, safely into Zhenjiang Port in Jiangsu Province. This achievement set a new record for the deepest draft of any vessel docking at Zhenjiang Port since it opened, marking the beginning of a new era where ships with drafts of up to 12 meters can enter and exit the port.

Cao Jinhai, the deputy chief of the Zhenjiang Pilot Station, shared insights about the “Sibylla,” which measures 299.95 meters in length and 50 meters in width. The ship initiated its journey from Australia, loaded with 93,000 tons of iron ore after a lightering process in Zhoushan, Zhejiang, before arriving at Zhenjiang Port.

He noted that the Yangtze River is currently experiencing a low-water period, with levels lower than in previous years. This has restricted navigation width, particularly in the narrow and winding section of the river near Zhenjiang, where the deep-water shipping channel known as Simawan narrows to about 350 meters. Consequently, large Capesize vessels have faced challenges in maneuvering through these waters.

To ensure the “Sibylla” could dock safely and in accordance with the “Eight Service Commitments of the Changjiang Pilot Center (2023 Edition),” the Zhenjiang Pilot Station collaborated with various agencies, including maritime, transportation, navigation, port, and agency services. They implemented tailored strategies for key enterprises and specific vessels to facilitate the safe entry of ultra-large ships into the river.

It has been estimated that the draft increases at Zhenjiang Port, from 11.36 meters to 11.8 meters and now to 12 meters, will allow cargo ships to carry an additional 6,000 to 8,000 tons per trip. This upgrade is expected to save companies approximately 70 million to 110 million yuan in logistics costs annually.

Wang Biao, the deputy general manager of Zhenjiang Port Group Co., Ltd., emphasized the significance of accommodating vessels with a 12-meter draft. He stated that this milestone enhances Zhenjiang Port’s position as a vital logistics hub, facilitates the optimization and transformation of port structures, and supports the integrated development of port, industry, and urban areas.