The Cape-size vessel Solar Glory berths at Rugao Port. [Photo/WeChat account: rugaofabu]

The vessel Solar Glory, carrying nearly 100,000 metric tons of iron ore, recently berthed at Rugao Port, marking the 700th safe docking of a Cape-size vessel since the port's opening.

Cape-size vessels, named for their necessity to navigate around the Cape of Good Hope due to their dimensions, are among the largest in the global shipping industry. Typically measuring 250–300 meters in length, with immense displacement and inertia, they pose high demands on port infrastructure and are a key focus of maritime safety supervision.

Since the arrival of the first Cape-size vessel on July 21, 2011, Rugao Port has leveraged advanced technologies such as smart maritime systems, drones, and CCTV monitoring to track the navigation status of incoming vessels in real time, ensuring a safe and efficient berthing environment.

Direct berthing of Cape-size vessels at Rugao Port significantly reduces transshipment costs. Each arrival is estimated to save port enterprises millions of yuan, while also cutting emissions associated with additional transfers, achieving both economic and environmental benefits.

Beyond direct gains, the ability to handle Cape-size and other ultra-large vessels has stimulated related industries, including warehousing, transportation, and agency services, creating a positive cycle of growth for the port economy.