The Port of Gdynia has welcomed its largest-ever container vessel following the successful arrival of MSC Venice at Baltic Container Terminal (BCT), the International Container Terminal Services, Inc. (ICTSI)-operated facility. Measuring 399 metres in length and with a capacity of 16,652 TEU, the vessel represents the largest and longest ship to berth at the Polish port to date, underlining Gdynia’s growing ability to accommodate the biggest container ships operating in the Baltic Sea.
The milestone reflects a series of infrastructure improvements carried out across the port and terminal in recent years, enabling the safe and efficient handling of larger vessels. Alongside works to deepen the port’s waters, the redevelopment of Helskie Quay and the expansion of Turning Basin No. 2 have enhanced navigational access, while BCT has also invested in new quay cranes and yard equipment to increase operational capacity.
“The maiden call of MSC Venice is a historic moment and a very tangible result of the investments that have transformed the capabilities of our ports in recent years. The deepening of port waters, the reconstruction of the Helskie Quay, and the expansion of Turning Basin No. 2 have created the conditions for the safe handling of the largest container vessels entering the Baltic Sea. This is an important step for the Port of Gdynia, BCT and the entire port and logistics sector in Gdynia.”
– Piotr Gorzeński, Port of Gdynia Authority management board president and chief executive officer.
“The arrival of MSC Venice is a defining moment for BCT and the Port of Gdynia. It validates the significant investments made by all stakeholders to accommodate the next generation of larger container ships and reinforces our position as a deep-water gateway port to support Poland’s economic growth.”
– Patrick Chan, BCT chief executive officer
The successful handling of MSC Venice is the result of long-term collaboration between BCT and a range of partners involved in the port’s ongoing development. These include the Port of Gdynia Authority, the Maritime Office in Gdynia, the Polish Navy and other stakeholders whose continued investment and cooperation have supported the port’s ability to accommodate a new generation of ultra-large container vessels.
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