Wan Hai 503 finds refuge in Dubai after 13-week odyssey

The beleaguered container ship Wan Hai 503 has secured a berth in Dubai after enduring a challenging 13-week journey at sea. Previously unable to discharge cargo or access ports due to a significant fire incident, the vessel has now been granted refuge at a DP World facility. Initial assessments indicate that the ship’s structural integrity remains intact, with cargo expected to be unloaded next month.

A Long and Perilous Journey

The Wan Hai 503, built in 2005 and capable of carrying 4,333 TEU, found itself stranded at sea since June, following a catastrophic fire triggered by an explosion beneath its deck. The incident occurred on June 9 while the ship was navigating approximately 50 nautical miles off the southwestern coast of India, during its voyage from Colombo to Nhava Sheva. Tragically, the fire resulted in the loss of four crew members and injuries to six others.

Wan Hai Provides Limited-time Carbon Offset Route Service For Customer’s Sustainable Engagement

In the wake of the disaster, salvage teams worked tirelessly to stabilize the ship and cool the affected cargo holds. However, Indian authorities ordered the vessel out of its exclusive economic zone by late June, ultimately leading to a series of unsuccessful attempts to dock in Sri Lanka. Throughout this ordeal, crewing agencies expressed growing concern for the well-being of the ship’s remaining crew, highlighting the emotional toll of such a prolonged and uncertain situation.

The successful relocation of Wan Hai 503 to Dubai marks a significant milestone in a saga reminiscent of the Maersk Frankfurt, which faced a similar fate earlier this year but managed to stay under its own power while navigating the Arabian Sea to Khorfakkan. As Wan Hai Lines prepares for the upcoming cargo discharge, the situation serves as a stark reminder of the inherent risks faced by vessels operating in challenging maritime environments.