Arkas was founded in 1902, by Gabriel J.B. Arcas as an import company based in Izmir. In 1944, Lucien G. Arcas redefined the company’s core activity, focusing on international transportation. Later on in 1964, the son Lucien Arkas took over the management who is still the president of Arkas Holding. The company underwent a name change in 1979, becoming Arkas Shipping and Transport S.A., providing agency services for global shipping lines.
In 1996, expanding its business as a shipowner, Lucien Arkas founded Emes Shipping & Transport, primarily offering Feeder Services. Business evolved with an addition of Liner services, and eventually Liner services have become the core of business and in 2009, and Arkas Container Transport S.A. (Arkas Line) was founded with a focus on “Liner Services” headquartered in Istanbul, while feeder operations continued under Emes Feedering S.R.L. headquartered in Genoa.
27 Countries
Services across The Mediterranean, Black Sea, West and North Africa, Northern Europe, East Coast of America and the Red Sea
72 Terminals Worldwide
Weekly services connecting the world
49 Vessels
23 vessels are operated by Arkas Line, 12 vessels by Emes Feedering
34th Place
Our ranking amont the top 100 ship operators based on operated capacity (Alphaliner)
Our Manifesto
As Arkas Line, we are a brand that transcends borders in maritime transportation. We operate in 4 continents, 27 countries and 72 terminals, connecting ports all over the world and expanding into new geographies every day. We see our job not just as a duty but as a responsibility. We handle every cargo we carry with great care and meticulousness, delivering it on time, safely and in the best way possible.
We always do our job with a focus on excellence. Transportation is not just about getting things from one place to another; it is about gaining and maintaining the trust of our customers. We always put people first: Our employees and customers are the true architects of our success. That’s why we listen to them, understand their needs and always take a solution-oriented approach. For us, every challenge is an opportunity to develop creative and innovative solutions.
We care about our world and our future. We are not only committed to doing our job right but also to protecting the seas and nature. Under the “Blue for Green” initiative, we act with a sustainability platform and environmental awareness. We strive to use our energy resources efficiently, reduce our carbon footprint and create a more sustainable world for the future.
As Arkas Line, we are aware of our responsibilities on a global scale. We are guided by the principles of sustainability, customer satisfaction and excellence in every step we take. We not only act as a carrier on the seas but also as a solution partner, an innovation pioneer and an environmental protector.
We continue to move forward, crossing the seas for a better world. Because we are Arkas Line.
Our Values
Valuing People, Respecting Nature & Life…
We have been sailing on our route for generations.
We put people first as part of our company’s
core value. We produce and promote projects
that will nurture the human spirit and move
the society forward.
We respect nature and life in everything
we do. We care for creating awareness
and positive change and believe that we can
make a difference.
We proudly carry the spirit of family business
to our future. We generate new ideas by
preserving the spirit of the past. We foresee
the future and we are ready to be a part of it.
We adapt ourselves constantly to keep up with the
changing world. We respond quickly to changes.
We develop effective work plans and strategies
that are flexible enough to offer solutions.
We work in harmony and promote team spirit. We
listen to each other and share information on the
basis of mutual respect and trust. We have an
integrated approach. We are open to all kinds of
ideas that can serve the benefit of all.
We cherish the benefit of all. We take and share
responsibility. We maintain consistency in our
working principles and focus on rational solutions.
Our Corporate Social Responsibility Approach
At Arkas Line, we shape our activities in the container transportation sector not only with an economic success-driven approach but also with an awareness of environmental and social responsibility. With this understanding, we aim to add value to both our sector and our community.
Aware of the environmental impact of the container transportation sector, we prioritize sustainability in our operations. Through eco-friendly supply chains and recycling programs, we continue to minimize the environmental impact of every stage of our business processes. Contributing to the development of society is part of our commitment to sustainability, which extends beyond the environment to include social responsibility. We prioritize the education and professional development of our employees, continuously improving to ensure an equal and inclusive working environment. Additionally, we collaborate with local communities and support social responsibility projects in underserved areas.
Our corporate social responsibility approach forms the foundation of how we operate. By prioritizing environmental and social benefits at every step, we will continue to add value to the container transportation sector.
Sailing Sponsorship
With our passion for the sea and our belief in the importance of water sports in our country, Arkas Line supports sailing.
As a container transportation company, we strengthen our connection to the sea not only through our business but also through sports. Our support for sailing symbolizes this deep bond with the sea.
While supporting the development of future generations as healthy individuals with a strong sports consciousness, we aim to foster an interest in sailing by creating healthy environments for young people to engage in this sport. At the same time, we aim to contribute to the spread of maritime culture and the training of future maritime professionals.
Through Arkas’ commitment to sailing, we will continue to support the development of Turkish sailing, ensuring that Turkish sailing is visible on international waters—not only with container ships and sailors but also with its sailors—and make a difference as part of our sustainable policies.