Newly-established Doornekamp Lines  has announced that global shipping carrier CMA CGM Group has agreed to be one of the users for the launching in May of a bi-weekly Canadian-flag container service via the St. Lawrence Seaway between Halifax and Picton, a small growing port on Lake Ontario some 200 kms east of Toronto.

First feeder vessel on the service will be the Gesina Schepers, an Antigua Barduba-registered vessel with a capacity of 855 TEUs and reported draught of 8.5 metres. Presently in the western Mediterranean, it will soon make its voyage to the Great Lakes.

Doornekamp Lines is a subsidiary of Doornekamp Construction, a family-owned business with head office in Odessa, Ontario. (See MM first report March 3)

“Booking all cargo and containers now!” stated Ben Doornekamp , one of the principals. “We move all types and sizes of containers, heavy lift, breakbulk, project cargo, etc.  We can provide first and last mile trucking options through local transportation provider Cooney Transport.”

“We are proud to announce global shipping leader CMA CGM Group will be one of the many customers to have containers sailing on our service in 2021. With a presence in 160 countries, 110,000 employees worldwide and a fleet of 502 vessels, CMA CGM is bringing their unique cargo solutions to customers in Ontario and the Great Lakes region.”

“Doornekamp Lines is dedicated to creating new opportunities for regional consumers and ultimately supporting Canadian consumers by increasing transport efficiencies, improving road safety and offering a more environmentally responsible option for both domestic and international trade,” Mr. Doornekamp continued.

He added: “Doornekamp Lines offers an alternative transportation mode that facilitates diversification in the logistics chain from the East Coast to the Ontario Market.”

The Ontario-based shipping enterprise also announced Phase 2 plans to include a bi-weekly service between Picton and Cleveland, Ohio. (Photo source: Doornekamp Lines)