In a landmark achievement, the Port of Durban has welcomed the largest container ship to ever dock at its facilities. The 399.99 meter MSC Rifaya arrived unexpectedly to conduct emergency repairs.
State-owned ports and logistics company, Transnet, said in a statement on Tuesday that the achievement demonstrates the port’s capabilities and infrastructure to accommodate large vessels, solidifying its position as a major player in the global maritime industry.
The arrival of MSC Riyafa, with a capacity of 19 437 TEUs (twenty-foot equivalent units), was made possible by a highly coordinated four-tug operation to safely navigate the vessel.
“The successful handling of this massive vessel is a testament to the Port of Durban’s world-class infrastructure and expertise, and we are proud to have a team of skilled and dedicated professionals who can handle the most complex maritime operations,” said Nkumbuzi Ben-Mazwi, acting port manager of the Port of Durban.
The logistics company said the achievement demonstrates its capabilities and readiness to handle the increasing demand for large vessels and its commitment to continuously improve its infrastructure and services to meet the evolving needs of the maritime industry.