The MSC Irina, one of the largest container vessels in the world, is currently drifting off the Vizhinjam International Seaport as it awaits berthing clearance. The incident highlights the growing challenge of congestion at Indian ports and the operational complications that arise when large vessels are left in limbo.

Mega Vessel Caught in Port Delays

Measuring nearly 500 meters in length and with a capacity of 24,346 TEUs (twenty-foot equivalent units), MSC Irina stands as a symbol of maritime engineering. However, even its sheer scale cannot escape logistical bottlenecks.

The ship reached outer anchorage at Vizhinjam but has been forced to drift due to a backlog of six ships already waiting to dock. The vessel is now expected to berth around June 6 or 7, contingent on port clearance.

Operational Challenges During Drifting

To conserve fuel and machinery, MSC Irina’s engines have been shut down, a routine procedure for ships waiting at anchorage. However, this leaves the vessel vulnerable to wind and current, resulting in a drifting condition that demands constant monitoring to avoid collision or grounding.

The crew remains on high alert with regular navigational watches, ensuring the ship’s safety even while stationary. This prolonged state of readiness adds mental and physical fatigue, especially with no opportunity for crew disembarkation.

Restrictions on Crew Movement

Due to the lack of immigration clearance and shore leave facilities at Vizhinjam, the crew of 36 members, led by Captain Willy Antony, are unable to leave the ship. This also halts any possibility of crew change or visitation, further compounding stress and isolation.

Captain’s Background and Ship’s Journey

Captain Willy, a veteran with nearly 20 years at Mediterranean Shipping Company (MSC), began his current assignment in April. The ship’s last port of call was Singapore, having earlier sailed through China and Korea.

As per standard procedure, the cargo manifest, detailing the contents of all 24,000 containers, is maintained by the shipper and carrier, while the captain focuses on vessel management and safety.

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Key Data Table – MSC Irina Drifting Off Vizhinjam

Sl. No.	Key Element	Details
1	Ship Name	MSC Irina
2	Size	Nearly 500 meters in length
3	Capacity	24,346 TEUs
4	Current Location	Outer anchorage, Vizhinjam International Seaport
5	Drifting Status	Engine shut down; drifting due to wind and current
6	Port Congestion	Queue of 6 ships; berthing expected on June 6 or 7
7	Crew Size	36 members (deck, engine, cadets)
8	Crew Restrictions	No shore leave or crew change allowed due to immigration constraints
9	Captain’s Name & Experience	Captain Willy Antony; ~20 years with MSC
10	Last Port of Call	Singapore (previously visited China and Korea)
11	Cargo Information	~24,000 containers; details with shipper and carrier
12	Operational Challenges	Navigational watches, collision risk, lack of relief for crew

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Conclusion

The MSC Irina case underscores critical pressure points in port infrastructure and crew welfare practices. With Vizhinjam poised to become a major transshipment hub, such incidents emphasize the urgent need for shore leave facilities, faster turnaround mechanisms, and berth management systems to accommodate the growing size and frequency of mega vessels.