CMA CGM Vessel on MV Losses 99 Containers During Storm off South Africa

For the second time in a month, one of CMA CGM’s large containerships has encountered severe weather off the coast of South Africa, leading to the loss of cargo. The CMA CGM Belem, a recently inaugurated vessel with a capacity of 13,000 TEU, reported the loss of up to 99 containers during a storm on August 15, 2024. The South African Maritime Safety Authority (SAMSA) confirmed the incident, noting a significant stowage collapse and the vessel’s subsequent request for refuge.

Initially, the CMA CGM Belem sought shelter in Maputo Bay but was later redirected to the Port of Ngqura due to its size and draft, which limit suitable port options in the region. SAMSA reported that the vessel had arrived at Port Elizabeth’s anchorage by late Sunday, August 18, where a full damage assessment is expected to take place. The incident highlights the challenges faced by large boxships navigating the Cape of Good Hope route, particularly during the harsh winter storm season.

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This incident follows a similar event on July 9, 2024, when the CMA CGM Benjamin Franklin, another ultra-large container vessel, lost up to 40 containers in the same region. The ongoing series of strong winter storms in South Africa has disrupted maritime operations, raising concerns about the safety and reliability of this alternative route for containerships diverted from the Red Sea. The recent events underscore the risks posed by these weather conditions, which have also led to the loss of other vessels, such as the bulk carrier Ultra Galaxy.