The first cargo vessel operating on the China-Europe Arctic Express route departs from Ningbo-Zhoushan Port in 2025. [Photo/Yongpai app]

A container shipping route linking China and Europe via the Arctic Ocean is set to begin regular operations this year, offering a faster alternative to traditional sea freight between the two regions.

Sea Legend Shipping, the operator of the route, announced that the service will run weekly from August through October, with eight scheduled voyages planned for 2026. The first sailing is expected to depart from Ningbo-Zhoushan Port on Aug 15 and arrive at the UK's Port of Felixstowe in about 20 days.

The route uses Ningbo as its main departure hub, consolidating cargo from several Chinese ports, including Dalian, Qingdao, Shanghai, Fuzhou, Taicang, and Nansha, before heading north through Arctic waters toward Europe.

The launch follows last year's trial operation and includes a significant capacity expansion. Seven vessels will be deployed on the route this season, compared with a single ship during the pilot phase.

Once cargo reaches Felixstowe, it can be distributed to destinations across Europe, including France, Germany, Belgium, the Netherlands, Poland, Sweden, Denmark, Estonia, and Latvia.

Shipping industry observers say the Arctic route offers competitive transit times compared with existing options. The service is expected to complete the journey between Ningbo and the UK in about 20 days, compared with roughly 25 days for rail freight and 30 to 40 days or more for conventional maritime routes via the Suez Canal.