The Port of Durban pulled off a serious flex when it took in the mammoth MSC Rifaya this week—the biggest container vessel ever seen in South African waters.
At nearly 400 m long (399.99 m), 58.8 m wide, and with a capacity of around 19 460 TEU, this Liberian-flagged beast—built back in 2017—sailed in unannounced on 9 June to conduct emergency repairs.
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Transnet’s four-tug escort guided the Rifaya to Pier 1, Berth 103, proving once again that the harbour’s got the muscle and skill to handle ultra-large container vessels.
Acting port manager Nkumbuzi Ben‑Mazwi praised the crew’s seamanship, saying: “It’s proof positive that our infrastructure and professionals can sort even the most complex calls.”
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Africa Ports & Ships notes that the 400‑metre arrival came under rainy skies at 07:23 UTC, marking the first time such a mega‑vessel called at a KZN port.
This visit isn’t just headline-making, it’s strategic: the ability to berth ultra-large container vessels cements Durban’s status as a serious global shipping hub. With a draught of 11.5 m and beam of 58.84 m, the Port’s widened entrance channel (now 19 m deep and 220 m wide) and Pier 1 berths proved up to the task.
Once tucked in at Berth 103, the Rifaya is expected to stay until about 13 June before sailing off to Singapore
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