Video: MSC Ship Loses 15 Containers Overboard In The Atlantic Ocean

The container ship MSC Houston V, sailing under the Portuguese flag, lost 15 to 20 containers overboard while battling rough seas off Portugal’s southern coast on March 20, 2025.

The ship, operated by MSC, was en route from Piraeus, Greece, to Liverpool, UK, when it encountered severe weather near Cape St. Vincent due to Storm Martinho.

Wind speeds reached up to 48 knots, causing a partial stack collapse and displacing several containers, with some falling into the ocean and others left precariously hanging off the starboard side near the stern.

Due to its large size and deep draft, the vessel was unable to dock at Portugal’s Port of Leixoes.

The operator sought an alternative port and requested permission to enter Vigo, Spain. The ship arrived at the Spanish port on March 21 and received authorization to berth at the Guixar Container Terminal, managed by Termavi.

15 Containers Lost Overboard from MSC Houston V in Atlantic Storm
On March 21, the MSC Houston V was caught in Storm Martinho while en route from Piraeus to Liverpool. Battling winds up to 48 knots.
Following the incident, the vessel made an emergency call at the Port of Vigo pic.twitter.com/YGo0q12499

— Arcadio Martinez (@tatin17) March 22, 2025

Port authorities, led by Vigo Port Authority President Carlos Botana, are working on a safety plan to secure or remove the affected containers.

A mobile crane will be deployed for this delicate operation. The terminal has cleared the area of other cranes to ensure the safety of workers and port infrastructure.

Officials have confirmed that the cargo does not pose any environmental or safety hazards. However, the exact duration of the ship’s stay in Vigo remains uncertain as inspections and container repositioning are expected to take time.

The 266 meter long vessel, built in 2010, was forced to interrupt its journey due to the damage sustained. It remains docked at Vigo while authorities assess its condition and plan the necessary steps to restore its cargo before it can resume its voyage to Liverpool.

Reference: container news

Source: Maritime Shipping News