Shipping lines began re-routing their cargo ships back in December 2023 / January 2024, following attacks on commercial shipping vessels by Houthis. The re-routing has involved a 3,000 mile diversion around the Cape of Good Hope, in order to avoid the Red Sea and minimise risks on sea freight vessels and crew. This routing has lengthened transit times and, naturally, increased costs involved in sea freight shipping.
In the first half of 2025, there appeared to be a lull in the number of attacks by Houthis on commercial sea freight shipping vessels. Most shipping lines remained cautious and have continued to route around the Cape of Good Hope. However, the beginning of July saw some dramatic and violent attacks, resulting in the sinking of two bulkers, and the death of at least three seafarers.
Given the current climate, it looks likely that the majority of shipping lines will maintain their cautious approach, avoiding the Red Sea, keeping the current routing around the Cape of Good Hope and associated costs on sea freight.
If you are utilising sea freight for your shipments, either involving routing around the Cape of Good Hope, or traffic from the West, get in touch with our team to request a quote. We have established relationships with the major shipping lines and consolidators (for LCL shipping), teamed with our AEO status and ability to perform customs clearances at most UK ports, UK based freight forwarder Mercator is well placed to handle your sea freight requirements. You can get in touch by calling (+44) 02392 756 575, emailing sales@mercatorcargo.co.uk or completing the form below and we will be in touch.
