The IMO Sub-Committee on Ship Systems and Equipment (SSE) held its 12th session from March 9 to 13, 2026, focusing on amendments to the Life-Saving Appliances (LSA) Code. Notably, new requirements for partially enclosed lifeboats mandate CO₂ levels below 5,000 ppm, emphasizing ventilation standards and testing protocols for safety.
On March 15, the Indian-flagged vessel ‘Jag Laadki’ departed from Fujairah port, carrying 80,800 metric tonnes of Murban crude oil to India. The Ministry of Shipping confirmed the safety of the vessel and its Indian crew. Additionally, two LPG carriers are en route, with ongoing monitoring of Indian seafarers in the region.
InterManager has raised serious concerns about the worsening security situation affecting commercial shipping in the Middle East Gulf and the Strait of Hormuz. Following recent attacks on merchant vessels, the organization urges ship managers and operators to exercise extreme caution and reassess the necessity of transiting this critical waterway.
The Director General of Shipping, alongside the Ministry of External Affairs and the Indian embassy in Baghdad, is facilitating the repatriation of Deonandan Prasad Singh, a 54-year-old engineer who died during an attack on the oil tanker MT Safesea Vishnu. His body is expected to return to India next week.
Rajesh Kumar Sinha from the Shipping Ministry announced the safe return of 30 seafarers from Gulf airports, raising total repatriations to 253. This initiative underscores India’s commitment to supporting its maritime workforce during challenging times, while ensuring uninterrupted operations at major ports through prioritized berthing of LPG carriers from global locations.
Two Indian-flagged vessels, Shivalik and Nanda Devi, successfully traversed the Strait of Hormuz, transporting 92,700 tonnes of liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) from Gulf nations. They are headed to Mundra and Kandla ports in Gujarat, expected to arrive by March 16 or 17, amid ongoing regional tensions.
Veteran Indian marine engineer Deonandan Prasad Singh tragically lost his life when a drone struck the oil tanker MT Safesea Vishnu near an Iraqi port. The sole fatality among 28 crew members, Singh succumbed to injuries after being evacuated. This incident underscores the escalating dangers faced by seafarers in conflict zones.
On March 11, the Philippine Coast Guard responded to a capsized cargo ship in Cebu, rescuing the crew but tragically reporting a dockworker’s death. The Theresa I lost stability during a loading operation, leading to its capsizing. An investigation is underway as the Coast Guard monitors for potential oil leaks.
The International Maritime Organization (IMO) has called an Extraordinary Council meeting on March 18-19 to discuss the impact of Middle East tensions on shipping and seafarers in critical maritime regions. This session, chaired by Victor Jiménez, aims to enhance maritime safety and security amid growing concerns from Council Members.
The Liberian Registry is launching electronic seafarer documents to enhance digital verification and regulatory compliance. Featuring QR codes for authenticity, this initiative aims to reduce fraudulent credentials and streamline inspections. The introduction of the SEA360 mobile app will allow seafarers to access their documents securely, boosting confidence in their credentials.
In response to escalating security concerns in the Gulf region, India is intensifying its vigilance over Indian-flagged vessels and crews. Monitoring three key ships in the Gulf of Oman, the government ensures the safety of 76 seafarers aboard, while establishing a 24/7 helpline for support during these turbulent times.
A norovirus outbreak on the Star Princess cruise ship has affected over 150 individuals, prompting the CDC to monitor the situation. The cruise line has implemented extensive sanitation measures and isolated affected individuals. This incident reflects a broader trend, with multiple gastrointestinal illness outbreaks reported on cruise ships this year.
Thailand’s Foreign Ministry has formally requested an apology from Iran after a Thai vessel was struck by a projectile in the Strait of Hormuz on March 11. The incident, which resulted in a fire and forced the crew to evacuate, has raised diplomatic tensions, prompting Thailand to seek clarification from Iran.
The sail-powered cruise ship Orient Express Corinthian has successfully completed propulsion tests, achieving remarkable speeds for its size. Set to enter service in May 2026, this 25,200 gross ton vessel features 54 suites for 110 passengers and utilizes an innovative Solid Sail system, distinguishing it in the luxury cruise market.
The International Association of Dry Cargo Shipowners (INTERCARGO) has raised concerns over escalating security issues in the Gulf waters and the Strait of Hormuz. Emphasizing the safety of seafarers, INTERCARGO convened an emergency briefing on March 11, addressing recent attacks on vessels that resulted in tragic fatalities and expressing condolences to affected families.
