Visakhapatnam Port Authority has successfully berthed MV Graceous, a cape-sized bulk carrier, at its EQ-1 berth in the Inner Harbour, marking a significant milestone in the port’s cargo-handling capabilities and operational capacity.
MV Graceous measures 292 metres in length, has a 45-metre beam and a draft of 12.2 metres, making it one of the largest bulk carriers to call at the port. The vessel arrived carrying a large coal cargo and was accommodated at the East Quay berth following detailed planning and coordination by port authorities.
Cape-sized vessels are among the largest dry bulk carriers in operation and are typically used for transporting commodities such as coal, iron ore and other bulk cargoes across long-distance international trade routes. Due to their size, these vessels generally operate only at ports equipped with the required draft, berth infrastructure and navigational facilities.
According to the port authority, the successful berthing of MV Graceous represents an important achievement for Visakhapatnam Port, which now has more than one cape-compliant berth capable of handling large bulk carriers. The development strengthens the port’s ability to attract bigger vessels and handle higher cargo volumes.
The milestone reflects ongoing efforts by the port to enhance infrastructure, improve operational efficiency and expand its capacity to meet growing maritime trade requirements. Accommodating larger vessels allows ports to benefit from economies of scale, improving cargo movement efficiency and reducing logistics costs for exporters and importers.
As one of India’s major ports on the east coast, Visakhapatnam Port continues to play a crucial role in handling bulk cargo traffic and supporting industrial and trade activities across the region. The successful handling of a vessel of this size further reinforces its position as a key gateway for maritime commerce and bulk cargo operations.
