Danube transit to Ukrainian ports now takes 2.5 times longer

The duration of voyages through the Danube to and from Ukrainian ports has increased significantly, with some shipments now taking around a month. According to Avalon Shipping operations manager Kateryna Kononenko, a typical route via Izmail now takes at least 2.5 times longer than before.

One voyage from Izmail to Egypt took 26 days, from the notice of readiness submitted on August 19 to arrival on September 14. For another vessel on the Izmail–Izmir route, the total voyage duration is estimated at 28–29 days.

Another voyage from Izmail to Egypt is expected to take 32–33 days. By comparison, a typical route to Egypt previously took around 12 days, including waiting time, canal passage, loading, port departure and the sea voyage.

The delays increase vessel turnaround times and the actual logistics costs for cargo owners. The situation could become even more difficult in autumn and winter due to more frequent adverse weather and possible temporary closures of the canal to navigation.

According to Avalon Shipping, there are currently no clear prerequisites for a significant reduction in Danube transit times. A noticeable improvement in logistics may depend on the restoration of full operations at the Greater Odesa ports.

Tags: shipping, logistics, transit, Danube, Odessa port, Ukraine