World’s Largest Container Ship Docks At Vizhinjam Port In Historic First

The world’s largest container ship by capacity, MSC Irina, docked at Vizhinjam International Seaport in Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala, on the morning of June 9, 2025. This is the vessel’s first-ever visit to a South Asian port.

The port authorities confirmed that the ship will remain at the port until Tuesday, June 10. The event also marked a major milestone for the newly inaugurated port, which was formally dedicated to the nation by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on May 2 this year.

The MSC Irina, operated by the Mediterranean Shipping Company (MSC), is officially recognised as the world’s largest container ship based on TEU (Twenty-foot Equivalent Unit) capacity. With the ability to carry 24,346 TEUs, it has surpassed the previous record-holder, OOCL Spain, by a margin of 150 TEUs.

The ship, built to serve long-haul trade between Asia and Europe, stretches an enormous 399.9 metres in length and 61.3 metres in width, making it almost four times the length of a FIFA-standard football field. It is designed to stack containers up to 26 tiers high, offering an unmatched level of cargo capacity.

Vizhinjam seaport — Image Credits: VizhinjamInternationalSeaport/X

The Liberian-flagged vessel was launched in March 2023 and began its maiden voyage in April 2023. Officials described it as a key addition to the global fleet, not just for its size, but also for its eco-friendly features.

According to data shared by the company, MSC Irina includes energy-saving systems that help cut carbon emissions by up to 4%, making it more efficient and aligned with modern environmental standards.

Port sources said the arrival of MSC Irina signals Vizhinjam’s growing presence on global shipping routes. Since it began trial operations in July 2024 and moved to full commercial operations in December 2024, the port has handled 349 vessels and processed 7.33 lakh containers.

The port has also recently welcomed other large vessels, such as MSC Michel Cappellini and MSC Türkiye, both part of MSC’s Icon-class fleet. These visits have played a role in building Vizhinjam’s status as a strategic transshipment hub in the Indian Ocean region.

Industry analysts have called MSC Irina’s stop at Vizhinjam a clear indicator of the port’s readiness to handle future maritime demands. It also reflects India’s growing potential in the global container shipping and logistics space.

References: NDTV, The Hindu

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