Reports have been received that the Liberian-flagged containership MSC Antonia, build in 2009, lost 46 containers overboard on August 29, during adverse weather conditions whilst the vessel was in a position approximately 29 nautical miles northeast of Port St Johns, South Africa.
Shipping claims specialist WK Webster said that approximately 305 containers stowed on board the vessel have also sustained damage as a consequence of the incident.
The vessel continued its voyage to Cape Town – as shown in Marine Traffic the vessel on Monday was located in South Africa – with no reported injuries to any crew members onboard.
Image: Marine Traffic
WK Webster noted that the vessel (IMO: 9398216) will continue its voyage to Cape Town in order to assess the extent of losses.
The claims specialist emphasised the fact that they have cargo surveyors on hand to investigate any damage to cargo that may arise and also the cause of the incident.
Further surveys may need to be undertaken to affected units at final ports of destination in due course.
The claims specialist warns that possible recovery issues may arise as a result of this casualty. Shipowners may also seek to declare general average as a result of this incident. However, it is not clear at this stage whether this matter gives rise to general average, WK Webster said.
Furthermore, it recommends its clients to contact them urgently if they are concerned with any of the cargo affected by this incident, so immediately steps to be taken for the protection of the client’s interests.
