With the launch of the Atlantic Runner II by Gulfcam SAS, Cameroon is reaffirming its maritime presence. This 180-meter-long vessel is now the spearhead of coastal shipping (cabotage) between the ports of Kribi and Douala, offering a high-performance alternative to road transport.

The return of Camship to sub-regional maritime routes

The return of Camship to sub-regional shipping lanes is major news for the Cameroonian economy. The Atlantic Runner II—a "giant of the seas" capable of carrying up to 1,100 TEU containers—has already completed its first technical calls. Equipped with four onboard cranes and capable of reaching speeds of 18 knots, the vessel is designed to ensure a fluid, rapid connection between the country’s two main economic hubs while also serving neighboring ports in the sub-region.

This initiative by Gulfcam SAS does more than just strengthen the national flag; it meets a critical need for competitiveness. By shifting a portion of cargo flow from road to sea, economic operators benefit from increased cargo security and a substantial reduction in transport costs.

A competitive lever for logistics subcontracting

For the BSTP-CMR, the commissioning of the Atlantic Runner II opens unprecedented perspectives for SMEs specializing in the supply chain and port services. The development of maritime cabotage creates an immediate demand for local services and technical expertise.

"The return of a vessel of this scale under the Cameroonian flag is a strong signal for 'Local Content.' It generates direct opportunities for our subcontractors in terminal management, warehousing, naval maintenance, and shipping agency services," analyzes a maritime economics expert.

By reducing reliance on road transport—which is often subject to infrastructure challenges—subcontracting firms can now guarantee more reliable delivery times to their prime contractors.

Driving regional integration

This dynamic aligns perfectly with the government's vision to establish Cameroon as a major logistics hub in Central Africa. For members of the Exchange, the Atlantic Runner II is more than just a ship; it is a flow accelerator that enables local SMEs to integrate into broader regional value chains and improve their operational performance in the international trade market.