MSC Irina

MSC Irina Latest News

The world’s largest container ship, MSC Irina, is set to make its maiden call at the Vizhinjam port, Kerala.

Why in the News?

• This is the first time MSC Irina, the lead ship of the MSC Irina-class, a series of six identical ultra-large container vessels (ULCVs), is sailing into the coast of a south Asian port.

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About MSC Irina

• It is a container ship built in 2023 and currently sailing under the flag of Liberia.
• It is the world’s largest container ship.
• It is operated by the Swiss-based container shipping giant, Mediterranean Shipping Company (MSC).
• It is 399.9 meters long and 61.3 meters wide.
• The Irina-class ships have a capacity of 24,346 TEUs (Twenty-foot Equivalent Units). It exceeds the previous record-holder, OOCL Spain, by over 150 TEU.
• The vessel could carry more than 24,300 standard 20-foot shipping containers stacked up to 22 decks.
• Beyond its size, MSC Irina is a pioneer in green shipping. The vessel incorporates cutting-edge innovations. 
  • With air lubrication technology, energy-efficient propellers, and advanced hull design, the ship significantly reduces fuel consumption and lowers its carbon footprint. 
  • These features make it one of the most eco-friendly mega container ships ever built. 

MSC Irina FAQs

Q1: Is MSC Irina the largest container ship in the world?

Ans: Yes, as of 2025, MSC Irina holds the title of the world’s largest container ship by capacity.

Q2: Under which country’s flag is MSC Irina currently sailing?

Ans: Liberia

Q3: Which company operates the MSC Irina?

Ans: It is operated by the Swiss-based container shipping giant, Mediterranean Shipping Company (MSC).

Source: NIE