Historic Arrival of MSC IRINA at Vizhinjam International Seaport
The MSC IRINA, acclaimed as the world’s largest container ship by capacity, is set to make a landmark docking at the Vizhinjam International Seaport on Monday, marking a major achievement for the recently inaugurated port.
Setting a New Benchmark in Global Shipping
With a staggering capacity of 24,346 TEUs (Twenty-foot Equivalent Units), MSC IRINA stretches nearly 400 metres in length—equivalent to roughly four times the length of a FIFA-standard football field—and spans 61.3 metres wide. This colossal vessel, launched in March 2023, embarked on its maiden voyage just one month later and sails under the Liberian flag.
Enhancing Trade and Maritime Connectivity
Designed primarily to transport vast quantities of containers between Asia and Europe, MSC IRINA plays a pivotal role in streamlining trade routes and improving logistics efficiency. Its arrival at Vizhinjam marks its first visit to a South Asian port, underscoring the port’s advanced capability to handle Ultra-Large Container Vessels (ULCVs).
Strategic Growth of Vizhinjam Seaport
Operated by Adani Ports and SEZ Ltd, Vizhinjam International Seaport recently opened under the auspices of Prime Minister Narendra Modi on May 2. It has quickly gained prominence by accommodating other massive vessels such as MSC Turkiye and MSC Michel Cappellini, solidifying its role as a crucial maritime hub.
Engineering Marvel with Sustainability at Its Core
- MSC IRINA stacks containers up to 26 tiers high, maximizing cargo capacity beyond that of its closest competitor, the OOCL Spain, by 150 TEUs.
- The ship incorporates state-of-the-art energy-saving technologies which reduce carbon emissions by up to 4%, reflecting a commitment to greener shipping practices.
A Leap Forward in Maritime Innovation
The docking of MSC IRINA not only highlights Vizhinjam’s strategic significance in the global supply chain but also signals a progressive step towards sustainable maritime operations, setting new standards for ports and shipping worldwide.
