The Maersk Essen arrived at Lazaro Cardenas port anchorage as a port of refuge late on the 26th January 2021.
It is understood that the vessel may not berth until 30th January whereupon cargo operations can commence. These operations are expected to take several weeks to complete given the complexity and dangers involved.
Thereafter, the plans for on-carriage of cargo to the intended port of destination have not been clarified, but recent information suggests that following repairs, the vessel is likely to re-stow discharged containers and sail to Los Angeles as originally intended. It is probable, however, that some containers will be unsuitable for on-carriage and will require to be trans-loaded or dealt with locally.
The Maersk Essen had departed China on December 26 on its regular route taking it across the Pacific to Los Angeles, where it was scheduled to arrive on January 22. It is believed it was approximately 430 nautical miles north northeast of Hawaii on January 16 when it encountered a storm. Approximately 750 containers were lost overboard.
According to Maersk, the vessel will call at the APM Terminals Lazaro Cardenas, Mexico. MSC, which had containers aboard the vessel is reporting that Maersk intends to discharge cargo, perform emergency repairs, then reload cargo and proceed to Los Angeles. It is expected that this may take about two to three weeks.
Read more
Sources: The Maritime Executive, BDP International, WK Webster
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.
