Shipping Revolution Faces Teething Problems: Demand Drop Reduces Service to Once a Week
The brand-new ferry service connecting Puerto Caldera, Costa Rica, and Puerto La Unión, El Salvador, has initiated operations with a mere 10-15% cargo capacity. This surprisingly low uptake prompted a schedule cut to just one trip a week.
Maiden Voyage Statistics
Confirmed by the owning company, Blue Wave, their vessel, the Blue Wave Harmony, kicked off its journey on August 10th. On its first return trip from Costa Rica on August 12th, it carried just two trucks in contrast to its announced capacity of 100 vehicles.
Though initially planning to operate two round trips a week, the service had to suspend the second trip after just one week. Nevertheless, Michael Volks, CEO of Blue Wave, remains optimistic about the project’s trajectory.
Why the Initial Drop in Demand?
The sluggish start didn’t catch the company off-guard. They had anticipated this sluggish uptake due to the novelty of the operation. The maritime transport initiative began back in 2015 but only became operational after eight years, following necessary regulatory adjustments and amid concerns about Puerto Caldera’s capacity.
Ticket to Sail: Price Breakdown
The fare to use the ferry service ranges between $1,145 and $1,360, dependent on vehicle length, weight, and cargo. According to Blue Wave, the journey covers 360 nautical miles, with the inaugural voyage exceeding the expected 18-hour journey time.
Exporters Eyeing the New Option
Costa Rica’s Chamber of Exporters (Cadexco) emphasizes the need for cost-competitive services. Suggestions include forging partnerships with Central American land transporters to provide more competitive rates.
Many stakeholders remain watchful, weighing the ferry against land transport in terms of logistics, schedules, and cost-effectiveness.
El Salvador Government’s Optimism
El Salvador’s Ambassador to Costa Rica, Oscar Toledo Soriano, is hopeful about the ferry’s potential and plans to collaborate with Blue Wave for an informational campaign targeting business chambers. Aiming for tourism, the ferry boasts 73 cabins for passengers, self-service restaurants, and Wi-Fi.
The trade between Costa Rica and El Salvador has soared to $699.34 million, emphasizing the significance of strengthening the maritime connection.
