First direct shipping route between Cork and New York secured 

The Port of Cork has secured a direct shipping route to New York and Savannah on the East Coast of the US with the addition of Cork as a port of call on CMA CGM’s Panama Direct transatlantic service.

The addition of Cork by the French shipping and logistics leader marks a major enhancement in Ireland’s international shipping connectivity.

The service officially began yesterday with its inaugural departure as the container vessel MV CMA CGM Louga sailed from Cork.

The new weekly service establishes a direct link between Cork and key US East Coast ports, providing Irish exporters and importers with a fixed-day schedule.

Reduces transit times 

By offering a direct route, the service significantly reduces transit times and streamlines logistics by eliminating the need for feeder connections through other European hub ports. Cargo can now reach New York in approximately nine days and Savannah in around 11 days, delivering faster and more efficient access for Irish exports to vital US markets.

This development is expected to support Irish trade growth by improving supply chain efficiency and strengthening transatlantic commercial ties.

Ann Doherty, CEO of the Port of Cork Company, said the announcement positions Cork at the heart of transatlantic trade and will benefit the region’s top exporters and importers.

"It is part of our strategy to continue to support jobs and industry throughout Cork and the wider Munster region by improving shipping service options and supply chain reliability for the Irish market. We are also helping diversity national trade options and the addition spotlights Cork’s role as a Tier-1 port of national significance, boosting the region's attractiveness as an investment destination.”

Expand network

Simon Smith, general manager of CMA CGM Ireland, said the addition of Cork was part of their ongoing commitment to expand their network.

"This direct solution is designed to deliver a premium experience to the Irish market and our customers. To further strengthen this service, an additional vessel will be deployed, helping us achieve our enhanced reliability and frequency objectives.” 

Cathal McSweeney, Director of Public and International Affairs at Cork Chamber, said the new route is a significant milestone for Cork and for Ireland’s international trade connectivity.

"Efficient global connections are critical to supporting business growth, enabling exporters to compete at scale and strengthening our attractiveness as a location for investment. For Cork’s strong base of indigenous and multinational companies across pharmaceuticals, medtech, technology and advanced manufacturing, enhanced direct access to key US markets is a major competitive advantage. This announcement further reinforces Cork’s position as a leading international business location and economic engine for the south of Ireland."

The Port of Cork already operates Ireland’s only other direct container shipping route between Ireland and the United States through a partnership with Independent Container Line (ICL), which connects to ports in Pennsylvania and North Carolina.