'Algeciras' container ship passing Canvey on 14th June 2020.

HMM Algeciras passing the Labworth.

The world’s biggest container ship HMM ‘Algaciras’ has just passed Canvey for the first time concluding it’s journey from China to DP World London Gateway in Thurrock via South Korea, the Netherlands, Germany and Belgium.

At 1,312ft (400m) long and 200ft (61m) wide, preparations began more than six months ago, with the Port of London Authority modelling its arrival on a simulator to ensure it could be carried out safely. HMM Algeciras will depart later on Sunday, carrying UK exports on her return journey to China via Singapore.

Peter Livey, managing director for Britain at shipping company HMM, which owns the vessel, described its maiden voyage as a “major milestone”. He said: “Ships of this size give us the capacity and flexibility to get our customers’ goods to the right place at the right time.”

DP World UK chief executive Ernst Schulze said the commitment of his staff has been “critical” to London Gateway remaining open throughout the coronavirus lockdown.