The MSC IRINA, currently the world’s largest container ship by capacity, arrived at Vizhinjam International Seaport on Monday morning, marking a historic moment for India’s maritime industry.
The giant vessel reached the port at 8 am and was welcomed with a traditional water salute. It is expected to remain docked until Tuesday, port officials confirmed.
With a massive carrying capacity of 24,346 TEUs (Twenty-foot Equivalent Units), MSC IRINA is a powerful symbol of India’s growing role in global trade. Measuring nearly 400 metres in length and 61.3 metres in width—about four times longer than a standard football field—the ship is specifically designed to carry large volumes of cargo between Asia and Europe efficiently.
Karan Adani, Managing Director of Adani Ports and SEZ Ltd., took to social media to share his pride. “Proud to welcome MSC Irina, the world’s largest container ship… to our Vizhinjam port. This marks the vessel’s maiden visit to the South Asian shores, making it a milestone not just for Vizhinjam but for India’s emergence as a key player in global transshipment,” he posted on X.
Vizhinjam port, which was officially inaugurated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on May 2, has already welcomed other Ultra-Large Container Vessels (ULCVs) like MSC Türkiye and MSC Michel Cappellini, solidifying its place as a major international maritime hub.
Launched in March 2023, MSC IRINA began its maiden voyage in April last year. The ship can stack containers up to 26 tiers high and surpasses its predecessor, OOCL Spain, by 150 TEUs in capacity.
In addition to its massive size, the vessel is also a step forward in eco-friendly shipping. It features energy-saving systems that reduce carbon emissions by up to 4%, aligning with global sustainability goals.
The arrival of MSC IRINA not only highlights Vizhinjam’s capability to handle some of the largest ships in the world but also represents India’s leap into a more connected and sustainable future in global shipping.
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