Khalifa Bin Salman Port welcomes largest vessel to ever visit port

APM Terminals Bahrain marked a significant milestone for the Kingdom’s maritime sector with the arrival of MSC MARIELLA, the largest container vessel ever to call at Bahrain.

With a capacity of 24,346 TEUs, MSC MARIELLA sets a new benchmark for vessel size handled at Khalifa Bin Salman Port (KBSP). The vessel’s maiden call highlights Bahrain’s position as a strategic maritime and logistics hub connecting Asia and the Middle East through direct shipping services. It also reflects the contribution of APM Terminals Bahrain in supporting the Kingdom’s growing role within regional and global trade networks.

A plaque exchange ceremony brought together key representatives from across the maritime sector, including His Excellency Mr Bader Hood Al Mahmood Undersecretary for Ports and Maritime Affairs at the Ministry of Transportation and Telecommunications, Mahesh J. Manikoth representing APM Terminals Bahrain and Biswas K. Narayanan representing MSC Mediterranean Shipping Company. Their presence, along with other key industry participants, reflected the shared commitment to strengthening maritime connectivity and supporting Bahrain’s logistics growth.

Precise coordination supported the vessel’s safe arrival and departure, guided by Bahrain’s experienced marine teams and strengthened by the use of the country’s newest high performance maritime assets. Senior Pilot Abdulwahab Mubarak Abdulla led the approach, while Senior Pilot Saber Mansoor Mohammed oversaw the departure, ensuring a smooth and well executed operation throughout.

The safe and efficient handling of MSC MARIELLA showcases the operational expertise at the Port and reinforces the Kingdom’s competitive position in the regional logistics landscape. Through continuous investment in equipment, people and technology, APM Terminals Bahrain plays an active role in ensuring reliable performance for customers and partners across the supply chain.