Pacific International Lines (PIL) has marked the inaugural arrival of its new Ubuntu Express (UBX) service in South Africa with a series of celebrations across Durban, Cape Town, and Johannesburg, following the successful launch of the service in April.
The milestone was first commemorated on 25 June in Durban, where SC Mara, the vessel operating the inaugural UBX service, made its maiden call at Durban Gateway Terminal (DGT). The event brought together PIL’s South African colleagues, Singapore’s High Commissioner to South Africa, H.E. Zainal Arif Mantaha, representatives from the agricultural sector, and partners from DGT to officially welcome the service. Commemorative plaques were presented to the vessel’s Master and Durban Gateway Terminal in recognition of the historic occasion.
The celebrations continued on 3 July in Cape Town, where PIL’s operations team hosted a cake-cutting ceremony on board SC Mara together with the vessel’s Master and crew. In Johannesburg, colleagues also gathered to celebrate the successful launch of the service and this important milestone for the company.
The Ubuntu Express (UBX) service strengthens trade links between Asia and South Africa through reliable weekly sailings, providing customers with enhanced connectivity, improved market access, and greater supply chain efficiency. As PIL continues to expand its network, the company remains committed to its “Putting Customers First” philosophy by supporting international trade, enabling business growth, and creating stronger connections across the regions it serves.
Ubuntu Express (UBX) Port Rotation
Shanghai
Ningbo
Kaohsiung
Shekou
Singapore
Durban
Cape Town
Singapore
Shanghai
The launch of the Ubuntu Express reinforces Pacific International Lines’ commitment to delivering dependable, customer-focused shipping solutions while strengthening maritime connectivity between Asia and Southern Africa.