30 Sep Smoke detection causes container vessel Maersk Cincinnati to berth

The container vessel Maersk Cincinnati was forced to berth at the port of Richards Bay after smoke was detected in one of its cargo holds, both the South African Maritime Safety Authority (SAMSA) and the vessel’s owners confirmed.

According to a statement from A.P. Moller-Maersk’s Senior Media Relations Officer for the Indian Subcontinent, Middle East, and Africa, Adhish Alawani, the incident occurred around midnight local time on 15 September 2024. The vessel, which was en route from Colombo to Port Tanger Med, reported smoke in a cargo hold but no visible flames. “The temperature in the cargo hold remained under control, and smoke is no longer visible,” Alawani said.

The crew responded swiftly to the incident, following safety protocols to contain the situation. Alawani further confirmed that all crew members were safe and accounted for, and the vessel’s machinery, steering, and navigational equipment remained fully operational. “The vessel is in a stable condition, and the owners are in contact with the crew to provide any necessary support,” he added.

The Maersk Cincinnati, a 15,500 TEU container ship built in 2024, operates on the Far East Asia–North Europe route under the Hong Kong flag. The vessel’s unscheduled stop in South Africa follows a precautionary decision to ensure the safety of the ship and its crew.

The situation is being closely monitored, and the vessel is expected to resume its voyage once all necessary inspections are complete.