Global shipping and logistics giant MSC is to launch a new sea route linking Liverpool with Northern Europe and Asia. 

Called ‘Britannia’, the loop provides access to the Vietnamese port of Vung Tau, creating a direct service to Liverpool and MSC’s hubs in Rotterdam, Antwerp and Hamburg, with connections to Scandinavia and Baltic destinations. 

The full route to be sailed will be: Shanghai – Ningbo – Yantian – Vung Tau – Liverpool – Rotterdam – Antwerp – Hamburg – London gateway – Singapore – Shanghai.

The first sailing will be the vessel MSC DENISSE X on 1 July, voyage number QB427W.

David Huck, chief operating officer at Peel Ports Group, which owns and operates Liverpool’s docks, said: “This is a true gamechanger for UK logistics, opening a world of possibilities for cargo owners and retailers across the country. The service will enable an improved and more sustainable flow of cargo – increasing supply chain efficiencies, while reducing lead times and landside carbon emissions.”