Sea route · Asia – Africa
Cai Mep – Thi Vai to Durban by sea
Typical routing, approximate distance and estimated transit time for ocean freight from Cai Mep – Thi Vai to Durban.
- Approx. distance
- 5,540 nm (≈ 10,260 km)
- Transit (direct service)
- 15–18 days
- Transit with transshipment
- 18–25 days
- Pure sailing time at 16–18 knots
- 12.8–14.4 days
- Main straits & canals
- Singapore Strait, Strait of Malacca
- Service pattern
- Direct & transshipment options
- Typical transshipment hubs
- Singapore
Routing
From Cai Mep – Thi Vai the usual routing passes Singapore Strait, Strait of Malacca before reaching Durban.
Both direct services and transshipment options are offered on this route; transshipment typically connects in Singapore.
Straits and canals on this route
- Singapore Strait Busy strait at the southern end of the Malacca route, next to the Singapore, Tanjung Pelepas and Batam hubs.
- Strait of Malacca The main sea link between the Pacific and Indian Oceans, used by most Asia–Europe, Middle East and South Asia services.
About this trade lane: Asia – Africa
Vietnam to East, Southern and West Africa across the Indian Ocean, often relayed in Singapore or other hubs.
Southern Africa is served by Asia–Africa services sailing across the Indian Ocean; Durban is the main gateway, with feeder connections onwards.
Distances are the sum of great-circle legs between waypoints along the usual sea lanes, through the relevant straits and canals, rounded to the nearest 10 nautical miles. Transit ranges assume a typical service speed of 16–18 knots plus time for intermediate port calls and canal transits; transshipment adds several days for the connection at the hub. Figures are estimates for planning and comparison, not carrier schedules.
Frequently asked questions
How long is shipping from Cai Mep – Thi Vai to Durban?
About 15–18 days port to port on a direct service, for an approximate sea distance of 5,540 nautical miles. Add time for inland transport, customs and any transshipment.
Are there direct services from Cai Mep – Thi Vai to Durban?
Both direct and transshipment services are commonly offered; transshipment usually connects in Singapore.
How can I get a freight rate from Cai Mep – Thi Vai to Durban?
Send Global Logistic Group your cargo type, volume (FCL or LCL), ready date and Incoterms®; we will compare carriers and send an all-in quote.
Information on this page is general guidance compiled by Global Logistic Group from public sources. Port facilities, carrier networks, routings and transit times change frequently; always confirm current schedules, cut-offs and requirements with us or the carrier before booking. Data as of October 2026.