March 8 - A new shipping link between Italy and Algeria is set to launch later this month, operated by Sloman Neptun Shipping and Transport, writes Kirsten Shepherd.

Using multipurpose tweendecker vessels, the new service will connect the Italian ports of Livorno and Genoa with ports in Algeria on a monthly basis.

Owned by Sloman Neptun, the four vessels have ro-ro ramps that can be used for rolling stock weighing up to 195 tonnes and are suitable for mobile cranes, mobile construction equipment or mobile oil drilling equipment. 

The first departure of the new service will be from Livorno on March 19th with the main focus being the Algerian ports of Skikda, Bejaia, Mostaganem and Oran. 

Sloman Neptun managing director, Ralf Kaptein says that the line decided to launch the new link in response to improving cargo development from Italy. Furthermore, Italian west coast ports are very well placed as hubs for transshipment traffic from India/Pakistan and the Far East.