A dramatic maritime incident unfolded in Hong Kong’s port on Saturday evening as the 364-meter-long container ship ONE Columba collided with the 6,600 TEU Clifford Maersk during docking maneuvers. The impact, captured in widely circulated videos, led to multiple containers toppling off the Maersk vessel into the water.
Collision Details
As ONE Columba approached its designated berth, its bow forcefully struck the starboard bow of the berthed Clifford Maersk, causing three containers to fall overboard. Port authorities swiftly responded, retrieving the containers from the water. Initial assessments indicate that Clifford Maersk sustained minor structural damage, while the extent of damage to ONE Columba remains under review.
Possible Cause: Power Failure?
Local reports suggest that ONE Columba may have experienced a power loss as it entered the terminal, which could have impaired its ability to maneuver safely. Investigations are underway to determine the exact cause of the collision and whether technical failures or human error played a role.
The incident occurred at Modern Terminals, a key shipping hub in Hong Kong. Despite the disruption, port operations resumed swiftly, and no injuries were reported among the crew members of either vessel.
Ongoing Investigations
Shipping authorities and terminal operators are conducting a full investigation to assess the damage and prevent future incidents. Maritime experts emphasize the critical importance of vessel power reliability and navigation protocols in busy port environments.
As one of Asia’s most significant shipping hubs, Hong Kong’s port remains a critical gateway for global trade, making this collision a stark reminder of the challenges involved in managing high-traffic maritime routes.
