The Port of East London is celebrating the docking of the longest vessel in its history.
On Thursday, the 247,2m Zhen Hau 20 – long enough to stretch across two and a half rugby fields – was delicately eased into the river port.
Zhen Hau 20, with its 41,2m beam and weight of 39,923 gross tons, required the assistance of three Transnet National Ports Authority tugs, the Impunzi, the Mthwalume and the Mvezo as well as pilot boat Tristan Tern to ensure a successful docking.
TNPA Port of East London port manager Sharon Sijako said safely docking the massive vessel required in-depth preparation. This included a site visit by Port of East London pilot Billy Rowe, who travelled to the Port of Ngqura to observe the vessel’s manoeuvring characteristics in preparation for its arrival at the Port of East London.
“Welcoming a vessel of this size required meticulous planning and flawless execution.
“Our marine crew worked efficiently in planning and arranging the optimal conditions to ensure that the vessel entered and docked safely,” said Sijako.
Rowe, who docked the vessel, said that although the task was extremely daunting, he was proud to have contributed to this momentous occasion.
“It is exciting to play a part in the making of port history.
“I am grateful for the support of the various crew members, who assisted me in docking the vessel safely,” he said...