When maritime professionals come together, great things happen. Since 1948, Eisbeinessen has stood as one of the most anticipated chain traditions in the global shipping industry.
For those new to the tradition, Eisbeinessen is the German name for a long-standing seafood networking event built on good company, strong industry ties, and the sharing of a traditional meal of Eisbein, a hearty pork knuckle dish.
Eisbein literally means “ice leg” and is said to originate from the historical use of pig leg bones to make ice skates.
Held annually on the first Friday of November in Hamburg, the event attracts more than 8,000 global industry players including shipbrokers, freight forwarders, freight forwarders, shelter suppliers, insurers, investors and port and business leaders from around the world.
This year, in 2025, the Institute of Shipbrokers South Africa (ICS SA) will step into the international spotlight as the exclusive official partner of the VHBS (Association of Hamburg and Bremen Shipbrokers) in the country for the first ever Eisbeinessen event in South Africa.
Why is this event important?
Being selected as the exclusive official partner is a testament to ICS South Africa’s leadership in promoting maritime excellence and professional standards in the country.
ICS SA continues to strengthen the country’s profile on the global stage by supporting skills, industry collaboration and advancing South Africa’s maritime capabilities.
This partnership enables ICS South Africa to:
- To showcase the professional strength, talent and technical expertise of its membership community
- Building deeper relationships with German and international maritime leaders
- Promote collaboration, knowledge sharing and sustainable investment opportunities
- Inspiring and empowering marine professionals across all industry sectors
It is ICS South Africa that is moving forward to show the world that we are not only part of global business, but shaping its future as a trusted and influential partner of choice.
Network with industry leaders and peers
Your presence is important. Every handshake and every conversation strengthens the network that keeps ships moving and business flowing.
As the only professional body that educates, certifies and represents commercial shipping professionals worldwide, ICS ensures that global maritime trade is driven by knowledge, integrity and trust.
Events like this reinforce the value of belonging to a prestigious international fraternity.
So come network with your peers in a privileged yet relaxed environment.
Event details
đź“Ť venue : Maison, Florida Road, Durban
📆 date : Friday, November 7, 2025
⏱️ time : From 17:00 onwards
đź“© Questions and ticket information: [email protected]
đź“ž phone : +27 (0)31 824 1388
ICS SA members can enjoy free tickets, with additional tickets for guests or colleagues.
ICS South Africa thanks its sponsors for their help in making this event possible.
- Gold – Linsen Nambi Shipbroking
- Silver – Uniatlantico Shipping Gmbh & Co. KG
- Bronze – Envision Maritime, Alpha Shipping
- Drink – fixed point
Join us in celebrating South Africa’s maritime excellence
This iconic chain tradition, beloved for its hospitality and hearty serving of Eisbein, is more than just a meal. This is where relationships in global shipping are created, strengthened and celebrated.
Now, that same spirit of connection is coming to Durban, uniting maritime leaders from around the world on South African soil.
Join us at the start of a new tradition in the South African sailing calendar. A night that combines global heritage with local pride, and a toast to the future shared with friends old and new.
We look forward to meeting you at the table.. 🇿🇦 ⚓ South Africa is ready to present a spectacular first course..
Raise a glass – create new partnerships – celebrate our industry
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