Crew Reviews, Ratings & Info for Maersk-Vallvik

In the aftermath of a fierce storm that struck Durban, South Africa, recovery operations are now in full swing. The tugboats of Transnet National Ports Authority (TNPA) successfully facilitated the release of the container ship 'MSC Ines' from the entrance channel without any incidents of spillage. However, the vessel has sustained significant rudder damage that necessitates repairs before it can resume its journey. As of October 15, 'MSC Ines' has been safely berthed at the City Terminal. In a more fortunate turn of events, the tanker 'Bow Triumph' grounded in the sheltered area known as Island View after breaking from its moorings and drifting ashore, landing on soft sands off Salisbury Island. Fortunately, the grounding did not result in any hull breaches. Meanwhile, the 'MSC Susanna' was also brought to the City Terminal for an underwater inspection after breaking free and colliding with other vessels. Following the evaluation, 'MSC Susanna' returned to berth 108/9 at the container terminal on October 15, where she is currently engaged in cargo operations. The 'SM New York' successfully completed its cargo operations before running aground on a nearby sandbank after breaking free from its moorings. The ship set sail on October 14, heading towards Port Elizabeth and arriving near the port on October 15. At Island View, 'Bow Triumph' is now focused on cargo operations, with its next destination set for Fujairah. Other vessels have reported damage due to the storm, including the 'Maersk Vallvik,' now docked at C berth at the Ro-Ro and MPT Terminal, and the French Navy frigate 'Floreal,' which saw a delay in its scheduled departure after suffering significant dents along its starboard hull and minor damage on the port side. Following the completion of safety surveys in Durban Bay, all navigable areas have been cleared, allowing shipping activities to return to normal as of October 13, just three days after this unprecedented storm caused considerable disruption. The remarkable swift response and professionalism of the marine staff at TNPA has been praised, particularly the pilots and tug crews who managed to navigate the torrential conditions with skill and expertise. The storm, which hit with sudden ferocity, produced nearly nil visibility, with wind gusts reaching up to 91 knots and rainfall amounts between 100 and 200mm pouring down on southern Durban, including the port area. This extreme weather caused significant damage to quayside structures, with several businesses facing flood-related issues, notably the Transnet School of Excellence adjacent to the Durban Container Terminal on Pier 2. Cargo handling equipment sustained damage at both DCT Pier 1 and Pier 2 terminals, as did key infrastructure at the Bulk, Break-bulk, and Car Durban Terminals. Reports indicate that eight Ship-to-Shore cranes and three rubber tyre gantries (RTGs) were also impacted, while several containers were washed into the bay.