In case you missed it, earlier this week, SC Ports welcomed a very special guest — one that also set a new record.

The OOCL Iris, which arrived at the Wando Welch Terminal, became the largest vessel to dock at the Port of Charleston.

According to the Maritime Executive, here are a few quick facts about the massive vessel:

The vessel spans 1,204 feet in length and has a capacity of 16,828 TEUs, meaning it can carry up to 16,828 standard 20-foot containers.
It was formally named OOCL Iris last December.
Its soon-to-be-introduced sister ship, OOCL Sunflower, will operate alongside it on a trade route connecting China and other ports in Asia to U.S. East Coast ports.
The previous record-holder was the CMA CGM Marco Polo, which set its record in May 2021, with a capacity of 16,022 TEUs.

In a press release, SC Ports President and CEO Barbara Melvin stated, "SC Ports’ strategic infrastructure investments allow us to continue welcoming the largest ships calling the US East Coast.” Melvin added, ”The Iris calling on the Port of Charleston is evidence of our commitment to providing highly productive port service to our customers.”

Bonus:In addition to capturing stunning images of the vessel, photographer and videographer Matthew Peacock had the opportunity to go aboard.

Did you know? At 52 ft, SC Ports has the deepest harbor on the US East Coast. The port is also investing ~ $3 billion to update infrastructure, expand cargo capacity, and build rail connections.