Contecon Manzanillo clears way for ultra‑large container vessels up to 15.5 m draft

Regulatory go‑ahead for deeper drafts

Maritime Professional reports that Contecon Manzanillo S.A. de C.V. (CMSA), the Mexican arm of International Container Terminal Services, Inc., has secured permission to berth vessels drawing up to 15.5 metres. The clearance is a prerequisite for handling the newest generation of ultra‑large container ships (ULCS) that routinely operate at such drafts.

Size limits now defined

Container News adds that the same approval extends the terminal’s design envelope to accommodate vessels up to 400 metres in overall length. In practical terms, CMSA can now receive containerships capable of carrying roughly 24 000 twenty‑foot equivalent units (TEU), a capacity tier previously unavailable at any other Manzanillo facility.

Only terminal with ULCS capability in the harbour

Hellenic Shipping News points out that, following the draft clearance, CMSA becomes the sole operator within the Port of Manzanillo equipped to service such ultra‑large vessels. The distinction gives the ICTSI‑run terminal a competitive edge over rival berths that remain limited to smaller ships.

Operational readiness and infrastructure

Marine Link notes that the go‑ahead has been accompanied by preparatory works at the terminal, including reinforcement of quay structures and dredging programmes designed to maintain the 15.5 m water depth. While the article does not detail a specific commissioning date, it confirms that the facility is now technically ready to receive ULCS traffic.

Industry reaction

Maritime Professional observes that liner companies are closely watching Manzanillo’s upgrade, as the Pacific gateway offers a strategic alternative to Mexican ports on the Gulf of Mexico for Asia‑Latin America trade lanes. The new capacity could help alleviate congestion at larger West Coast terminals in the United States and Canada.

What this means for operators

For ship owners and charterers, the clearance translates into a fresh call‑away point on the Pacific coast capable of handling the largest container ships without the need for transshipment. Operators can now schedule direct services to Manzanillo with vessels up to 400 m long, potentially reducing sailing time and demurrage risk associated with intermediate ports. Additionally, the exclusive ULCS capability may encourage carriers to renegotiate service contracts in favour of a more diversified Mexican port network, offering resilience against disruptions elsewhere.

Related coverage

• Contecon Manzanillo cleared to berth ultra‑large container ships