The service includes calls at Qingdao, Shanghai, Ningbo, Felixstowe, Rotterdam, Hamburg, and Gdansk. Sea Legend plans to operate this route as a seasonal service during warmer months when the Arctic passage is accessible. The Istanbul Bridge, which previously sailed as Flying Fish 1, has prior experience on Arctic voyages, having completed a similar journey in 2023.
Sea Legend Shipping emerged as a Chinese-controlled carrier during the Red Sea crisis, operating with Chinese-flagged vessels that were adapted for enhanced security. With the new NSR route, the company is focusing on transporting premium cargo with high time sensitivity. Goods such as electronics and fashion are central to its strategy, as the reduced transit time offers faster delivery cycles and improved inventory management for shippers.
The 18-day transit time compares favorably with traditional Asia–Europe shipping routes, providing a competitive advantage for customers requiring quicker connections. By shortening delivery schedules, Sea Legend aims to capture demand from industries where speed and reliability are critical.
Another Chinese carrier, New New Shipping, introduced its own liner service through the NSR in 2023, highlighting growing interest in Arctic routes as an alternative for Asia–Europe trade. With increasing cargo volumes and demand for efficiency, the NSR has gained attention as a seasonal option that can reduce sailing distances.
Sea Legend’s new initiative reflects an effort to diversify service offerings and provide tailored solutions for time-sensitive cargo. The company sees the Arctic route as an opportunity to expand its market presence and establish itself in niche segments of international shipping.
Looking forward, Sea Legend plans to strengthen its position in container trade between China and Europe by developing regular NSR operations. The company expects the service to be particularly valuable for shippers looking to balance speed, cost, and inventory needs during peak demand seasons.
With this development, Sea Legend Shipping joins other carriers in exploring the potential of Arctic trade lanes, underscoring a trend of diversification in global container shipping routes. The NSR, while limited to specific months, offers a shorter alternative to traditional passages and presents opportunities for carriers seeking efficiency in international logistics.
