MAERSK Eindhoven is in Japanese waters after losing 260 containers overboard in rough weather after an engine-stop incident.

According to a statement from Maersk, the vessel is awaiting clearance by Japanese authorities for transit into APM Terminals Yokohama on 25 February.

The company said surveyors and salvors were on the ship reviewing the vessel and safety conditions.

“The ship’s engine and seaworthiness are in good working order and the port call repairs will address some steel railings, inspection of hatch covers and other activities that the surveyors might find,” the statement said.

“At this point in time, we have ensured that all replacement materials and welding activities can be performed in port. This is subject to change in the event our inspection and survey process finds new items to repair.”

Maersk said it expects the vessel to resume normal TP6 service routing once repairs are completed.

The ship was en rout from Xiamen to Lost Angeles when the incident occurred.

According to a statement from MSC, which is part of the 2M Alliance with Maersk, preliminary findings indicate that the engine stop and loss of manoeuvring ability in rough seas led to severe rolling, which caused the containers to topple overboard.

Maersk Eindhoven has a container-carrying capacity of 13,100 TEU, with a length overall of 366.46 metres and width of 48.26 metres. The vessel is 11 years old and is flagged in Denmark.