DP World Posorja has completed manoeuvring simulations for its future 800-metre quay configuration, testing simultaneous operations with vessels measuring up to 384 metres and 400 metres. The final extension is expected to raise the Ecuadorian deep-water terminal’s annual capacity to 1.4 million TEUs by the end of 2026.
Posorja validates its future 800-metre quay
Guayaquil, Ecuador — September 2026. DP World Posorja has moved closer to completing the final phase of its berth expansion after manoeuvring simulations confirmed the viability of operating the terminal with an 800-metre quay.
The tests were carried out on August 24 and 25 at FORCE Technology in Denmark, with participation from the Guayaquil Port Authority (Autoridad Portuaria de Guayaquil). They examined vessel and tug manoeuvres under the configuration planned once the final 100 metres of quay are added.
According to the Guayaquil Port Authority, the simulations tested a scenario with a vessel of up to 384 metres at berth 1 and a second vessel of up to 400 metres at berth 2. Berthing and unberthing were assessed from port and starboard, during both daytime and nighttime conditions, with positive results reported across the manoeuvres.
The exercise provides an operational validation for the next stage of the Posorja expansion, rather than simply another construction milestone.
From 700 metres to 800 metres by year-end
DP World inaugurated an earlier phase of the Posorja expansion in April 2026, extending the quay to 700 metres through the addition of 232.5 metres. That configuration already allows the terminal to handle two post-Panamax vessels simultaneously.
The operator plans to add a further 100 metres by the end of 2026, bringing the total quay length to 800 metres and raising annual handling capacity to 1.4 million TEUs.
The April expansion formed part of a USD 190 million private investment announced by DP World. The programme also includes two fully electric Super Post-Panamax quay cranes, additional rubber-tired gantry cranes and expanded reefer capacity.
“By enabling larger vessels and improving connectivity, Posorja is strengthening its position as a world-class deepwater port,” said Carlos Merino, CEO of DP World in Colombia, Ecuador and Peru.
Larger ships meet stronger maritime connectivity
The additional berth capacity is being developed as Posorja’s maritime network expands.
In August 2026, DP World announced a new weekly direct Asia service operated jointly by Ocean Network Express (ONE) and HMM. The AX4/NW4 service became Posorja’s third direct connection to Asia and targets Ecuadorian export flows including shrimp, bananas, broccoli and other temperature-sensitive cargo.
DP World says the number of regular shipping services calling at Posorja has doubled since 2023, increasing from four to eight weekly services. The terminal is now connected with more than 40 ports across Asia, Europe, the Mediterranean and the Americas.
The parallel expansion of physical capacity and maritime connectivity is significant for the terminal. Larger container ships require longer berths and higher-capacity handling equipment, while additional liner services place further demands on vessel windows, yard operations and cargo flows.
Posorja moves toward a larger role in Ecuador’s trade
DP World has operated the deep-water terminal since 2019 and says it has invested approximately USD 700 million in Posorja since operations began.
The September simulations therefore form part of a broader development programme aimed at increasing the terminal’s ability to accommodate larger ships while supporting growing international cargo connections.
For DP World Posorja, the next milestone is the completion of the final 100 metres of quay. Once the 800-metre configuration is delivered, the Ecuadorian terminal will combine dual-vessel capability with planned annual capacity of 1.4 million TEUs and an expanding network of international services.
Sources: Autoridad Portuaria de Guayaquil / DP World
FAQ
How long will the DP World Posorja quay be?
DP World plans to extend the quay from 700 metres to 800 metres by the end of 2026.
What vessel sizes were tested at Posorja?
The simulations tested a vessel of up to 384 metres at berth 1 and another of up to 400 metres at berth 2.
What will Posorja’s annual capacity be after the expansion?
DP World expects annual capacity to reach 1.4 million TEUs once the 800-metre quay configuration is completed.
How many weekly shipping services call at Posorja?
DP World says regular services increased from four in 2023 to eight weekly services in 2026.
