Ship Refloated in Suez Canal, Restoring Normal Traffic Flow

This incident comes as a relief to global trade, as the Suez Canal is a crucial shipping route between Europe and Asia.

Cairo, May 25, 2023 – In a significant development, the massive ship Xin Hai Tong 23, a bulk carrier sailing under the Hong Kong flag, has been successfully refloated in the Suez Canal, according to leading shipping agent Leth Agencies. The ship had been stranded for several hours, causing disruptions in one of the world’s busiest waterways. This news comes as a relief to global trade, as approximately 12% of the world’s trade passes through the Suez Canal, serving as the shortest shipping route between Europe and Asia.

The Suez Canal Authority has successfully refloated M/V XIN HAI TONG 23 at 0740hrs.

The northbound convoy will enter at 0930hrs. https://t.co/r2aGSALXE0

— Leth (@AgenciesLeth) May 25, 2023

Leth Agencies confirmed the refloating of the Xin Hai Tong 23, measuring 190 meters (623 feet) in length, stating, “The Suez Canal Authority has successfully refloated M/V XIN HAI TONG 23 at 0740hrs (0440 GMT). The northbound convoy will enter at 0930hrs.” The canal authorities deployed tugboats to overcome an engine malfunction that caused the ship to be grounded. Despite a brief delay due to the ship’s winch failure, the refloating process was ultimately successful.

As soon as the towing process is completed, shipping activities in both directions will resume their normal operations, as per the precautionary measures issued by the canal authorities. This incident briefly disrupted two convoys of ships, causing a temporary halt in the smooth flow of traffic.

Also Read: https://themaritimepost.com/2021/04/video-this-is-how-the-ever-given-was-freed-from-the-suez-canal/

Trackers from Refinitiv Eikon shipping data indicated that the Xin Hai Tong 23 was initially positioned at an angle, with its stern abutting the eastern side of the canal. However, it has now been moved towards the center, pointing south. Three Egyptian tugboats were seen surrounding the vessel, providing essential assistance in the refloating operation.

M/V XIN HAI TONG 23 has grounded in the Suez Canal at KM 159/0400 hrs – leaving behind 4 vessels from the early convoy in addition to the ordinary group which was planned to enter Suez Canal at about 0600 hrs.

Suez Canal tugs are currently trying to re-float the vessel.

— Leth (@AgenciesLeth) May 25, 2023

The Xin Hai Tong 23, managed by Tosco Keymax International Ship Management and owned by Xiang B12 HK International Ship Lease, originated from Dhuba port in Saudi Arabia. The successful refloating of the ship marks a crucial milestone in the maritime industry, ensuring the efficient movement of goods and trade between Europe and Asia.

For more information on the Suez Canal and its significance in global trade, visit the official Suez Canal Authority website.