Record-equalling container vessel arrives in the Haven

12 September 2025

 

In the early hours of Friday morning (12 September 2025), the MSC Siena arrived into the Port of Felixstowe from the Far East with a deep draught of 17.1m.

This is only the second time a vessel of this depth has arrived in UK waters and equals the record set by the MSC Elenoire in November 2024.

The 366m vessel, which is only a year old, was expertly crewed by Harwich Haven Authority Senior Pilot Simon Browne who met her 16 miles out at sea and piloted her into the Haven until she was safely alongside on Berth 8.

Harwich Haven Authority Harbour Master Will Barker said:

“The Harwich deep water channel is the only channel of its kind that can accommodate such deep vessels in the UK. Bringing in a vessel of this draught takes a huge amount of work in planning, coordinating and teamwork and delivering this significant maritime achievement highlights the world-class expertise and infrastructure we have here at Harwich Haven Authority. 

We’re proud to play our part in enabling global trade by ensuring the safe, efficient arrival of the world’s largest ships, even at their deepest.”

Video credit: Jeff Welch, JW Shipping Photography