Maersk, Hapag-Lloyd to reroute Gemini service through Red Sea and Suez Canal

A.P. Moller–Maersk and Hapag-Lloyd say they will change the routing of one of their shared services under the Gemini Cooperation, transitioning it through the Red Sea and the Suez Canal with naval security assistance in place.

The companies say the ME11 service, which connects India and the Middle East with the Mediterranean, will begin the change from mid-February. Adjustments will apply to westbound sailings starting with the vessel Albert Maersk and to eastbound sailings starting with the vessel Astrid Maersk.

Maersk and Hapag-Lloyd say they may also reroute the AE12 and AE15 services through the Red Sea and the Suez Canal at a later stage, with further details to be provided to customers and other stakeholders. No additional changes to the Gemini network related to the Red Sea are planned at this time.

The companies say the transition will be carried out in a way that minimizes disruption for customers while maintaining schedule reliability.

They say the highest security precautions will be taken to protect crews, vessels and cargo, and that both carriers will continue to closely monitor the security situation in the Middle East. Any further changes will depend on continued stability in the Red Sea region.

Maersk and Hapag-Lloyd launched their operational collaboration, the Gemini Cooperation, Feb. 1, 2025. The network includes 29 shared mainline services and 29 shared shuttle services on East-West trade routes.