Los Angeles-Bound Maersk Essen loses some 750 containers overboard

A Maersk operated containership en route to Los Angeles, California has reportedly lost some 750 containers overboard in the Pacific Ocean.

The incident occurred on January 16, 2021, and involved the 13,100 TEU capacity Maersk Essen, according to a casualty report by WK Webster (WKW), a cargo casualty management firm. The cargo loss is believed to be the result of severe weather.

Maersk has now also confirmed the incident.

“It is reported that up to 750 containers may have been lost overboard and it is therefore also very likely that some containers will have collapsed or been damaged in the affected stacks, but remain on board. These containers will need to be removed or repositioned,” the WKW report said.

“The vessel is understood to be continuing the voyage to Los Angeles where it is scheduled to arrive possibly as early as 22nd January, and WKW will make arrangements for surveyors to be in place in order to investigate the cause of the incident and to attend to any cargo surveys as may be necessary or possible,” it added.

Maersk confirmed the incident in a statement, posted in full below:

“We regret to announce the 13,100 TEU, Danish-flagged, Maersk Essen enroute from Xiamen, China to Los Angeles, California on Maersk’s TP6 Asia/US West Coast service experienced heavy seas during her North Pacific crossing on the 16th of January 2021, resulting in the loss of approximately 750 containers overboard. All crewmembers are safe and a detailed cargo assessment is ongoing while the vessel continues on her journey. The US Coast Guard, flag state and relevant authorities have been notified.

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Source: gCaptain

BDP International is actively monitoring the situation and reaching out to our customers who have cargo aboard the Maersk Essen. We will continue to share updates as we receive them, but should you have any questions or concerns please reach out to your local BDP representative.