Two Hong Kong ship management companies contacted by the South China Morning Post said the tail shaft was custom-made for each vessel so it was difficult to estimate the cost of repairs. But they said repairs could cost up to at least US$2.25 million, which should be covered by Samsung’s insurers.
The OOCL Brussels is one of 10 ships, and the first in OOCL logos, ordered by parent Orient Overseas (International) for US$1.36 billion in 2011.
The ship was to have entered service on OOCL’s important Asia-Europe trades at the end of last month, but now would not be delivered by Samsung until March 26.
Delivery of the ship has been delayed after the tail shaft, which connects the engine to the propeller, was damaged during engine tests.