Ignazio Messina: “Projecting a heavy lift fleet”

The Genoa-based Messina Group is considering the acquisition of heavy lift vessels to expand its break bulk traffic. Despite handling smaller quantities, break bulk cargo—comprising special loads—offers higher yields compared to other goods. Ignazio Messina, the company’s CEO, acknowledges that the Port of Genoa is well-equipped for break bulk cargo. However, the procedures for obtaining permits for oversized and overweight cargo tend to favor the Adriatic route.

The Messina Group aims to diversify its operations by adding break bulk traffic, including eco-bales, aluminum, steel, and other consignments, alongside container transport. Their strategic shift involves entering the project cargo market with heavy lift vessels, deploying them on non-liner services, and seeking exceptional cargoes from the Adriatic to the Arabian Gulf. This move reflects their commitment to growing in markets where the group already has a presence, while maintaining a historical tradition of activity in the sector.