Keralite Captain Leads MSC Irina, World’s Largest Container Ship, to Vizhinjam Port
MSC Irina, the world’s largest container ship operated by the Mediterranean Shipping Company (MSC), recently arrived at Vizhinjam International Seaport. This milestone marked a proud moment for its captain, Willy Antony, a native of Thrissur, Kerala. With a distinguished maritime career spanning 29 years, including 19 years with MSC, Captain Antony currently commands the lead ship of the MSC Irina class—an ultra-large container vessel (ULCV) series of six identical ships.
From Early Aspirations to Commanding Mega Vessels
Born into a maritime family, Captain Antony was inspired by his late father, Palokkaran Antony, a marine surveyor based in Kochi. After completing his higher secondary education, he pursued a diploma in nautical science and joined as a cadet in 1996. His dedication and passion propelled him through the ranks, culminating in his role commanding one of the largest container vessels ever built.
Future of Maritime Transport: Growing Vessel Sizes
Captain Antony has extensive experience navigating various types of vessels, including ultra-large container ships since their inception in the MSC fleet. He emphasized that container ships will continue to increase in size and capacity, allowing for the transportation of greater cargo volumes per voyage.
- Operational Efficiency: Larger ships improve efficiency by consolidating cargo, reducing the number of individual voyages required.
- Environmental Impact: Larger vessels have relatively lower carbon emissions per unit of cargo transported, contributing to greener shipping practices.
He also shared insights into challenges at sea, including sailing through high-risk pirate areas, noting that he has so far avoided any untoward incidents.
Vizhinjam Port: Gateway to Economic Growth
Captain Antony hailed the Vizhinjam International Seaport as a significant opportunity for India's economic advancement. He remarked that the port project should have been operational much earlier, given its strategic potential.
For aspiring seafarers, he advises thorough preparation and a deep understanding of the demanding life at sea. Passion and hard work, he stresses, are crucial for a fulfilling maritime career.
Family Accompanies Captain Antony on Voyage
Captain Antony was accompanied on the voyage to Vizhinjam by his wife, Hilda, and son, Benhail, who is a ninth-grade student. The family later disembarked in Singapore, allowing Benhail to resume his academic commitments.
