Part 2/12:
In a February 2024 analysis, discussions centered on the diversion of ships around Africa's Cape of Good Hope due to regional conflicts like the Houthi movement restricting access through the Red Sea. This shift had practical implications: ultra-large ships were seen routing predominantly from Asia to Europe, bypassing traditional pathways and highlighting their strategic importance.
The Evolution of Container Ship Sizes
The growth trajectory of container ships is well-documented, drawing from Jean Paul Rodrigue's transport geography studies. Since the early days, ships have undergone several significant phases:
- Early Ships: Carried a few hundred to a few thousand TEUs.