India makes waves as MSC Irina, world’s largest cargo ship, docks at Vizhinjam port for the first time (see pics)

MSC Irina, one of the world’s largest container ships, docked at Vizhinjam International Seaport on Monday after departing from Singapore and reaching the port’s outer waters on June 3.

This is MSC Irina’s first-ever visit to a South Asian port, highlighting Vizhinjam’s capacity to handle Ultra-Large Container Vessels (ULCVs).

Karan Adani, MD of Adani Ports, praised the milestone as a bold step toward India's growing transshipment capabilities and global shipping relevance.

The ship measures 399.9 meters in length and 61.3 meters in width, with a record capacity of 24,346 TEUs (twenty-foot equivalent units), making it the largest container vessel to call at a South Asian port.

Kerala CM Pinarayi Vijayan called the arrival a historic milestone, celebrating the ship’s docking as a symbol of the state’s global maritime aspirations.

MSC IRINA plays a vital role in the Asia-Europe trade route, showcasing Vizhinjam’s capacity to handle Ultra-Large Container Vessels (ULCVs) and boosting India's presence in global transshipment.

VISL MD Divya S Iyer officially welcomed the crew, highlighting the importance of this visit just a month after Prime Minister Modi inaugurated the deepwater port on May 2.

Launched in March 2023, the vessel uses energy-saving features, reducing carbon emissions by up to 4%, aligning with modern environmental goals.

Following the recent arrival of MSC Türkiye and MSC Michel Cappellini, Vizhinjam Port is fast becoming a reliable hub for global maritime trade, with MSC IRINA cementing its place on the map.