The Kyoto Express, Hapag-Lloyd’s
latest mega containership, was named in Yokohama and consecrated with the traditional Shinto ceremony. The patron was the wife of NYK Chairman Minako Kusakari.
The Kyoto Express is a giant containership measuring 1099 ft. (335 m) long, 141 ft. (43 m) wide; and over 197 ft. (60 m) from the keel to the superstructure. The newbuilding has a capacity of 104,000 t and can carry 8,750 standard containers (TEU). The main engine provides a speed of 25 knots (almost 50 km/h). The vessel, which sails under German flag, is manned by a crew of 24.
The Kyoto Express is deployed in the context of the Grand Alliance, providing services between Europe and the Far East on the round route Shanghai, Xiamen, Yantian, Hong Kong, Singapore, Southampton, Hamburg, Rotterdam, Port Kelang and Hong Kong again.