MSC IRINA, the world’s largest container ship, berthing at Vizhinjam Port
MSC IRINA, the world’s largest container ship by TEU (twenty-foot equivalent unit) capacity, made its maiden call at the Vizhinjam International Seaport on Monday morning, marking a significant milestone for the port, which was inaugurated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on May 2.
The arrival of the vessel with a capacity of 24,346 TEUs will give a competitive edge to India’s Exim trade as it is one of the main services of MSC, which connects Asia to Europe. The ship also offers a direct connectivity to European ports of Valencia, Barcelona and Gioia Tauro and will considerably reduce cost and delivery lead time of both imports from Chinese sectors and exports to European sectors, Binu KS, Managing Committee member of Kerala Steamer Agents Association, told businessline.
Time-sensitive cargoes such as perishable goods, readymade garments and industrial accessories manufactured in South India will get easy access to European ports. The ship started its voyage from China, travelled to South Korea, before coming back to China and then Singapore, prior to touching Vizhinjam, he said.
Another industry source noted that the anchoring of the ship has put the Vizhinjam Port and Kerala on the world maritime trade map as one of the most prominent ports. For decades, the trading community faced challenges. These have been resolved. Goods from India can reach supermarkets in Europe faster and in as fresh a condition, creating an ideal environment for products manufactured in India to be exposed to the global consuming centres
Ship’s specs
With a length of 399.9 metres and a width of 61.3 metres, the vessel is approximately four-times longer than a standard FIFA-designated football field. Designed specifically to facilitate the transportation of large volumes of containers between Asia and Europe, the vessel’s maiden visit to a port in South India highlighted Vizhinjam’s capabilities in handling ultra-large container vessels (ULCVs).
MSC IRINA was launched in March 2023 and embarked on its maiden voyage in April of the same year. It sails under the Liberian flag and is engineered to stack containers up to 26 tiers high.
Vizhinjam Port has recently facilitated berthing of Icon-class vessels, including MSC Türkiye and MSC Michel Cappellini, further establishing its reputation as a key hub in maritime trade.
Published on June 9, 2025