UPDATE: Windswept Malta-flagged cargo vessel, CMA CGM BELEM, safe in Algoa Bay, awaiting berthing at Ngqurha deep water port

Meanwhile in Gqeberha, Eastern Cape; SAMSA confirmed that the CMA CGM BELEM, arrived in Algoa Bay at the weekend and was currently anchored at the Port of Ngqurha.

Said SAMSA: “Authorities are actively working to secure a berth for the vessel as soon as one becomes available. Currently, the weather conditions at the anchorage are calm, and there is no risk to the vessel while she remains at anchor.

“The CMA CGM Belem, a container ship sailing under the Maltese flag, encountered severe weather off the coast of Richards Bay on the night of 15 August 2024, resulting in a significant stow collapse and a loss of 99 containers overboard.

“The vessel, which measures 336 meters in length, 51 meters in height, and has a draft of 14.8 meters, had initially sought refuge at Maputo Bay but was redirected to Gqeberha.

“In response to the incident, the owners are cooperating with the authorities and a navigational warning has been issued for the safety of navigation of other vessels in the vicinity.

“Vessels traversing the ocean area, and the public, are requested to report any sightings of the lost containers to the relevant authorities,” said SAMSA.

Source : SAMSA