When maritime professionals come together, great things happen.. Since 1948, the Eisbeinessen has stood as one of the most anticipated networking traditions in the global shipping industry..
For those new to the tradition, Eisbeinessen is the German name for a long-standing maritime networking event built around good company, strong industry relationships, and the sharing of a traditional Eisbein meal, a hearty pork knuckle dish..
Eisbein literally means “ice leg” and is said to have originated from the historical use of the pig’s leg bone for making ice skates.
Held annually on the first Friday of November in Hamburg, the event attracts more than 8000 global industry players, including shipbrokers, shipping agents, freight forwarders, bunker suppliers, insurers, financiers, and port and trade leaders from across the world..
This year, in 2025, the Institute of Chartered Shipbrokers South Africa (ICS SA) steps into the international spotlight as the exclusive official VHBS (Hamburg and Bremen Shipbrokers Association) Partner in the country for the first-ever Eisbeinessen event in South Africa..
Why this event matters
Being selected as an Exclusive Official Partner is a testament to ICS South Africa’s leadership in elevating maritime excellence and professional standards in the country..
ICS SA continues to strengthen the country’s profile on the global stage by championing skills, industry collaboration, and advancing South Africa’s maritime capabilities..
This partnership enables ICS South Africa to:
- Showcase the professional strength, talent, and technical expertise of its membership community
- Build deeper relationships with German and international maritime leaders
- Drive collaboration, knowledge sharing, and opportunities for sustainable investment
- Inspire and empower maritime professionals across all sectors of the industry
This is ICS South Africa stepping forward to show the world that we are not only part of global trade, we are shaping its future as a credible and influential partner of choice..
Network with industry leaders and peers
Your presence matters.. Every handshake and every conversation strengthens the network that keeps ships moving and trade flowing..
As the only professional body that trains, certifies, and represents commercial shipping professionals worldwide, ICS ensures that global maritime business is guided by knowledge, integrity, and trust..
Events like this reinforce the value of belonging to a respected international fraternity..
So come network with your peers in a premium yet relaxed setting..
Event details
📍 Venue : Maison, Florida Road, Durban
📆 Date : Friday, 7 November 2025
⏱️ Time : From 17:00 onwards
📩 Enquiries & Ticket Information: ics@icssa.co.za
📞 Tel : +27 (0)31 824 1388
ICS SA members can benefit from Complimentary tickets, with additional tickets available for guests or colleagues..
ICS South Africa thanks its sponsors for their contribution in making this event possible..
- Gold – Linsen Nambi Shipbroking
- Silver – Uniatlantico Shipping Gmbh & Co. KG
- Bronze – Envision Maritime, Alpha Shipping
- Drinks – Fix Point
Join us in celebrating South Africa’s maritime excellence
This iconic networking tradition, loved for its hospitality and its hearty serving of Eisbein, is more than just a meal.. It is where relationships in global shipping are built, strengthened, and celebrated..
Now, the same spirit of connection arrives in Durban, uniting maritime leaders from across the world on South African soil..
Come join us at the start of a new tradition in the South African shipping calendar.. A night that blends global heritage with local pride, and a toast to the future shared with friends old and new..
We look forward to seeing you at the table.. 🇿🇦⚓ South Africa is ready to serve a spectacular first course..
