Missile-hit containership Safeen Prestige confirmed lost in Strait of Hormuz escalation
The containership Safeen Prestige has reportedly sunk in the Strait of Hormuz after a missile strike triggered a severe onboard fire, according to The Maritime Telegraph. A safety warning issued by NAVAREA IX on April 1 confirmed the vessel’s loss, marking the first reported total ship loss linked to the current security escalation affecting commercial shipping in the region.
The vessel sank near the northern tip of the Musandam Peninsula, about 6.5 nautical miles northeast of Ras Madrakah, in waters roughly 120 meters deep. Authorities observed floating containers and traces of an oil slick near the site, pointing to possible environmental impact and navigational risk.
Built in 2013 and later operated within regional liner services, the 1,740-TEU ship previously belonged to AD Ports Group before its sale to an Egyptian owner in 2024 while remaining on charter. The vessel mainly connected Abu Dhabi with Gulf ports, the Indian Subcontinent, and selected Red Sea destinations.
After the March 4 strike, an engine-room fire forced the crew to abandon the ship. A support tug sent several days later also came under projectile attack, causing casualties. Analysis from United Against Nuclear Iran indicated the vessel may have suffered additional damage before sinking.
The incident forms part of a wider deterioration in maritime security across the Persian Gulf corridor. Since February 28, at least 22 incidents involving vessel damage, strikes, or interception debris have been reported, highlighting growing operational risks for shipping companies transiting the area.
