In a landmark event for India’s maritime and logistics infrastructure, MSC Irina, the world’s largest container ship, docked at the under-construction Vizhinjam International Seaport in Kerala on June 6, 2025. The vessel’s arrival marks a pivotal moment in India’s aspirations to become a global transshipment hub and significantly boost its cargo-handling capabilities.
Operated by Mediterranean Shipping Company (MSC), the MSC Irina spans an impressive 399.9 meters in length and has a carrying capacity of over 24,000 TEUs (Twenty-foot Equivalent Units). The docking at Vizhinjam highlights both the port’s strategic geographic advantage and its readiness to handle Ultra Large Container Vessels (ULCVs).
Vizhinjam Port, located near Thiruvananthapuram, is being developed by Adani Ports and Special Economic Zone (APSEZ) and is designed to become India’s first deepwater, mega transshipment terminal. The port’s proximity to major international shipping lanes, with a natural depth of over 20 meters, makes it ideal for handling the world’s largest cargo ships without the need for dredging.
Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan, who oversaw the ceremonial welcome of the vessel, described the docking as “a monumental step in Kerala’s maritime history.” He also emphasized that Vizhinjam’s operationalization would significantly reduce India’s reliance on foreign ports like Colombo, Singapore, and Dubai for transshipment, leading to substantial cost savings for Indian exporters and importers.
The arrival of MSC Irina also serves as a test run for port facilities ahead of Vizhinjam’s full commissioning, scheduled later this year. Engineers and logistics specialists are closely monitoring operations to ensure readiness in handling high-volume container traffic.
Experts in the shipping industry consider this event a potential game-changer for India’s maritime economy. “The successful berthing of a vessel of this size shows that India is ready to compete with global maritime hubs,” said Captain Ramesh Pillai, a retired navy officer and shipping consultant.
The port project has seen significant investment and international interest, with expectations that Vizhinjam will not only ease congestion at Indian ports but also attract global shipping lines seeking alternative transshipment locations amid geopolitical shifts and evolving trade dynamics.
