Why Are Ships Going Around Africa Instead of Through the Suez Canal?

The longer route around the Cape of Good Hope is becoming a strategic choice as security risks reshape global shipping.

The Route That Saves Thousands of Miles

For decades, the Suez Canal has been the preferred shortcut between Asia and Europe. Instead of sailing around the southern tip of Africa, ships can pass through the Mediterranean and Red Sea, cutting thousands of nautical miles from a voyage. But today, security concerns are making that shortcut less attractive for some operators.

What Changed in the Red Sea?

The major reason is the security situation around the Red Sea and Gulf of Aden. Repeated attacks and threats against commercial vessels have made operators reassess the risk of sending ships through the Bab el-Mandeb and toward Suez. The IMO has continued to warn that attacks endanger seafarers and disrupt international shipping.

Why Take the Long Way Around?

For some companies, adding days to a voyage is preferable to exposing a vessel, cargo and crew to a higher-risk area. Ships can instead sail south through the Atlantic, round the Cape of Good Hope, and then continue toward their destination. UNCTAD notes that vessels once crossing the Red Sea in days have, in many cases, been sailing for weeks around the Cape.

MY OBSERVATION

From a seafarer’s perspective, the decision is not simply about distance. A longer voyage means more fuel, additional watchkeeping, changing arrival schedules and greater operational costs—but security remains the first consideration when the alternative route reduces exposure to a dangerous chokepoint.

The Hidden Cost of Going Around Africa

The detour affects much more than the ship’s ETA. Longer voyages consume additional fuel, increase emissions, require more voyage planning and can push up freight and insurance costs. UNCTAD has reported that rerouting around the Cape has contributed to higher costs, delays and emissions.

Is Suez Being Abandoned?

Not permanently. Some major carriers have already begun cautiously restoring services through the Red Sea and Suez Canal as security conditions change. The shipping industry is therefore balancing two priorities: the efficiency of the Suez route versus the security of the people and vessels using it.