A container stack collapse aboard an ultra-large container vessel temporarily disrupted operations at the Port of Rotterdam on 6 February 2026.
According to maritime industry reporting, the incident occurred during discharge operations on the German-flagged Bangkok Express in the Nieuwe Maas area.
A section of the container stack gave way, causing multiple containers to fall. At least five containers reportedly landed on the stern of the LNG bunkering vessel K. Lotus, which was berthed alongside and engaged in LNG transfer at the time.
Additional containers fell into the river, prompting navigational safety considerations and a temporary halt to nearby operations.
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The Bangkok Express, a next-generation LNG dual-fuel containership with a capacity exceeding 23,000 TEU, was undergoing routine cargo handling when the collapse occurred.
The adjacent K. Lotus, a 166-metre LNG bunkering tanker delivered in 2022, was conducting bunkering procedures when impacted.
Industry reports state that the crew of the K. Lotus immediately suspended LNG transfer operations and enacted onboard safety protocols following the impact.
Terminal activities in the affected area were paused while inspections and recovery efforts were initiated.
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As of the latest available reporting, no injuries have been confirmed. The extent of structural damage to either vessel has not been formally disclosed.
At the time of writing, no official press statement has been published on the Port of Rotterdam Authority’s website.
