The crew of the ultra-large Maersk container ship, Marie Maersk, successfully contained a fire while sailing off the Liberian coast on August 13, 2025. The fire was detected in containers as the vessel traveled from Rotterdam to Tanjung Pelepas, Malaysia. The crew promptly initiated firefighting efforts, ensuring all members remained safe, and the ship’s systems continued functioning normally.
Over the weekend, the crew’s efforts prevented the fire from escalating. Additional support arrived with three tugboats and an offshore supply vessel equipped for firefighting. Maersk indicated that these external resources would enhance firefighting operations, allowing for relief for the onboard team once they can board the vessel.
The ship is currently being diverted to a port of refuge for faster landside assistance. Maersk’s Crisis Response Team is maintaining regular contact with the crew to provide guidance. The impact on the cargo remains unclear, and further investigation into the affected containers will occur only after the fire is fully extinguished. The Marie Maersk, launched in 2013, operates under the Danish flag and has a carrying capacity of 19,076 TEU.
