OOCL newbuilding damaged at Samsung yard

The vessel is one of 10 ships in a series ordered by the line in 2011 and was supposed to have been put on the key Asia-Europe trades. It is now expected to be deployed by April.

The tail shaft, which connects the engine to the propeller, was damaged during engine tests. Samsung accepted the blame for damage to two sections of tail shaft, including the aft section closest to the propeller. Apparently further damage occurred when another incident involving shaft bearings took place while the damaged sections were being removed for repair.

The cost of the damage, including the new shaft sections and labour, was still being assessed, and no amount was disclosed but estimates suggest repairs could cost up to at least $2.25m.