A Malta-flagged feeder ship has become the first container vessel casualty in the Strait of Hormuz after being struck and abandoned by its crew, reported the UK’s Seatrade Maritime News.
Authorities said the 1,740-TEU Safeen Prestige, owned by Transmar International Shipping of Abu Dhabi, was attacked two nautical miles off Oman while transiting eastbound. All crew were reported safe after a fire broke out in the engine room.
The incident comes as 138-147 container ships, totalling 470,000 TEU, are trapped west of the Strait amid escalating conflict between the US, Israel and Iran. Houthis have also threatened shipping near Bab el-Mandeb, further restricting access to Gulf ports.
Xeneta chief analyst Peter Sand said congestion, yard density and transit times will rise as carriers divert vessels. MSC has already declared Gulf-bound cargo at the end of its voyage, with ships seeking safe ports to discharge.
Xeneta’s Destine Ozuygur tracked Hapag Lloyd’s 23,664 TEU Damietta Express, which diverted from the Suez Canal to Salalah, Oman, before changing course again for Malaysia. Analysts warned even shipments outside the Gulf are at risk of disruption.
Following drone strikes, Salalah is no longer considered safe, with Colombo in Sri Lanka emerging as an alternative discharge port. Alphaliner reported 15 MSC and 14 CMA CGM vessels trapped in the Gulf, while other carriers plan ad hoc calls at Khor Fakkan and Salalah.
Drewry said the conflict will amplify scheduling disruptions globally, causing backlogs, equipment shortages and higher spot rates. Analysts warned operational difficulties at sea will translate into congestion and delays on shore.
