SeaLead, a fast-growing global shipping line, has announced the revamp of its Five Seas Express (5CX) service with a new routing structure. The newly enhanced, jointly operated weekly shipping service will directly connect key ports along the Far East and the Mediterranean trade lane via the Suez Canal.
This strategic move is designed to strengthen SeaLead’s presence in the region, supporting growing trade flows between Asia and the Mediterranean while significantly reducing transit times for customers. The inaugural sailing is scheduled to depart from Qingdao on 27 October 2025.
The revamped service rotation covers a comprehensive list of major international ports:
Qingdao – Shanghai – Ningbo – Nansha – Alexandria – Aliaga – Istanbul – Mersin – Jeddah – Port Klang – Qingdao
In addition to its speed and reliability, the service offers extensive coverage to key markets across North Africa, the Black Sea, and the Mediterranean via the Turkish port of Aliaga, creating broader market access for customers.
The key features of the revamped 5CX service include:
Doreen Yeo, Chief Commercial Officer at SeaLead, stated that by regrouping the 5CX service, SeaLead is working closely with its partners to deliver a more reliable and efficient network. This strengthened collaboration leverages the collective expertise of all partners to enhance service quality, strengthen schedule integrity, and maintain comprehensive coverage across Asia and the Mediterranean.
Kadir Oruc, Regional Managing Director for Europe and Mediterranean at SeaLead, added that with weekly sailings and a time-saving route, the service enables customers to plan more effectively and optimize their supply chains. The joint operation structure ensures enhanced service reliability and improved access to key markets, ultimately delivering greater value to customers.
