Less than two months after its delivery to CMA CGM, the LNG-powered dual-fuel containership CMA CGM Belem lost 99 containers off South Africa’s east coast due to severe weather on August 15, 2024. The vessel, with a capacity of 13,000 TEU, encountered adverse conditions near Richards Bay, leading to a significant stow collapse.

Initially, the ship sought refuge in Maputo Bay but was later redirected to Qheberha for safety reasons. A navigational warning has been issued, and the South African Maritime Safety Authority (SAMSA) has called for reports on any sighted containers still floating at sea.

The Malta-flagged CMA CGM Belem arrived at Ngqurha port in Algoa Bay on August 18, 2024, where it will be temporarily berthed. The damaged containers will be discharged at a container port facility.

Launched by Chinese shipbuilder Hudong-Zhonghua in January 2024, CMA CGM Belem is the fifth of six LNG-powered ships ordered by CMA CGM as part of a $2.3 billion deal aimed at decarbonizing its fleet. The ship was officially delivered on June 28, 2024.