The introduction of a series of 3,596-teu feeder vessels by Maersk Line has raised fears of overcapacity in the Baltic trades.

The first of the seven ice-class vessels, the Vistula Maersk (built 2018), was delivered on 1 February.

At more than twice the size of conventional Baltic feeders of 1,400 teu to 1,700 teu, their introduction has raised concerns about whether volumes in the Baltic and North Sea trades can sustain the additional capacity without placing pressure on freight rates.