An Ocean Network Express (ONE) vessel that reported a container stack collapse, on 30 November, may have lost up to 25% of its cargo as images of the collapse show a catastrophic event, with almost all of the forward cargo stacks affected.
A consultant master Mariner with experience on container ships told Container News that the loss of cargo, reportedly around 1,900 containers, could be approximately 28% of the total cargo carried by ONE Apus on this voyage.
“We calculated this using eastbound slot utilisation for Transpacific routes as reported, and the image seen on Twitter,” said the consultant, who estimates that the quantity of lost and damaged containers may be in the range of 35% of cargo on board since lost containers will not be included in the collapsed stacks still present on deck.
“The Twitter image clearly shows that most of the container stacks between the accommodation and funnel casing have collapsed,” said the consultant, adding, “My calculation is 14,000TEU at 91% utilisation, which is my estimate, equals 12,740 TEU. That means some 1,900 containers, mostly 40’ as per the picture equals 3,600TEU or 28.25% lost in total.”
Asked to comment on the latest calculations, ONE referred Container News to its latest statement: “Chidori Ship Holding LLC as owners and NYK Shipmanagement Pte Ltd as managers of the container vessel ONE Apus (IMO# 9806079) report that the ship is now proceeding in a westerly direction towards Japan with plans to seek a suitable port to right unstable containers, assess any damages and determine the exact numbers of containers lost after encountering severe weather on the night of Monday, November 30 2020.”
The company statement confirmed the consultants fears, but also added, “Early investigations onboard the ONE Apus have determined that the impacted container bays remain unsafe for close-quarter inspections; however, it is estimated that the number of lost or damaged units could exceed 1,900, of which some 40 are believed to be DG containers.
“Our focus remains on getting the ship to a safe port to ensure the ongoing safety of the crew, the vessel and the cargo on board.”
