MSC’s 8,401-TEU container vessel MSC Silvana VIII has sunk deeper into the water off Zhoushan, China, following a grounding during Typhoon Bavi last month, raising concerns that the vessel could eventually become fully submerged.
The 20-year-old, 332-metre-long containership arrived at the Zhoushan ship-repair area on June 22 from Gwangyang, South Korea, for repairs. During the passage of Typhoon Bavi in mid-July, the vessel reportedly broke away from its position and subsequently ran aground off Daishan in Zhejiang province.
Attempts to refloat the vessel have so far failed. The ship has since developed a severe stern trim, with several cargo holds and the engine room reportedly flooded. Recent images indicate that a significant portion of the vessel is now submerged, while the surrounding waters could reach depths of 40–50 metres, raising the possibility that the ship could slip completely beneath the surface if salvage efforts are unsuccessful.
The salvage operation has already removed around 3,000 tonnes of fuel from the vessel. However, satellite imagery indicated a fuel-oil slick extending several miles from the casualty area as recently as August 7, highlighting the potential environmental risks associated with the incident.
The vessel was reportedly undergoing repair work when the incident occurred, with scaffolding visible around its bridge and foremast. The precise circumstances that led to the grounding, the extent of structural damage and the next stage of the salvage operation remain unclear.
The situation is also being complicated by further adverse weather conditions in the region, increasing pressure on salvors to stabilise the vessel and prevent additional flooding.
MSC has not yet issued a public statement on the casualty, according to reports.
The incident underscores the significant challenges involved in salvaging a large containership after grounding, particularly when severe weather, structural damage, flooding and potential fuel pollution are involved.