The Seafarer Happiness Index has declined, dropping to 6.87 in Q2 2025. This decrease, attributed to the Persian Gulf conflict and ongoing crew morale challenges, follows a brief improvement. Key issues include low shore leave scores and recruitment difficulties, highlighting the need for better conditions and fair compensation for seafarers.
A cargo vessel was struck by an “unknown projectile” in the Strait of Hormuz, prompting an investigation by British maritime authorities. The incident occurred near Oman, raising concerns about maritime security in this critical passage. Details on damage and injuries remain undisclosed as investigations continue. Stakeholders are closely monitoring the situation.
Garden Reach Shipbuilders & Engineers Ltd. (GRSE) has secured a Notification of Award from ONGC for constructing four Platform Supply Vessels (PSVs). This project, dated July 30, 2026, enhances GRSE’s shipbuilding capabilities with advanced, environmentally-friendly designs. The vessels will utilize hybrid propulsion for efficient offshore logistics support.
Recent archaeological assessments at Palur, Odisha, have revealed significant findings of a thriving maritime settlement that lasted over two millennia. Artifacts, including red polished ware and marked potsherds, suggest extensive trade connections with Southeast Asia. This research highlights Palur’s role as a vital maritime hub in ancient history.
The Supreme Court has directed the Ministry of External Affairs to locate Deepak Kumar Gupta, an Indian seafarer missing after a drone attack on the MV AGN Ragnar in the Black Sea. Conflicting reports about the crew’s fate prompted urgent action, with the Court emphasizing the need for clarity and swift information gathering.
Six Saudi-flagged supertankers have changed course in the Gulf of Aden, heading towards southern Africa due to threats from Yemen’s Houthi movement. The vessels, returning from Asia without cargo, are avoiding the Bab el-Mandeb chokepoint for safety. This detour could significantly delay their return to Saudi ports.
Korean Register (KR) has awarded AM Solutions a manufacturing process certificate for its laser wire directed energy deposition (LW-DED) technology, enhancing 3D printing applications for metal repairs. This certification confirms safety and reliability, marking a pivotal step in expanding additive manufacturing’s role in maintenance across industries like aerospace and shipbuilding.
The crew of the anti-whaling vessel Bandero is reportedly confined aboard in Reykjavík, with only the captain formally charged. Conflicting reports arise about the crew’s status; while the foundation claims they cannot leave, police state only the captain and officers were arrested. Allegations of detainment at gunpoint remain unverified.
A fire on the Indonesian ferry Mutiara Sentosa 2 has claimed at least five lives, with many passengers still unaccounted for. The blaze erupted early Sunday as the ferry traveled from Surabaya to Makassar. Rescue efforts have saved over 220 individuals, but 41 remain missing amid challenging conditions.
A tragic incident occurred near the Muthalapozhi Estuary in Kerala, India, when a fishing vessel capsized late Friday night. One crew member has been confirmed dead, while another is missing. Strong waves overwhelmed the boat, leading to the swift rescue of two members while the others were lost at sea.
Three men have been arrested on suspicion of attempted murder after a hate crime attack on a Filipino crew member in Avonmouth. The assault, involving a large group, left one man critically injured. Authorities are treating the incident as a hate crime and urge witnesses to come forward with information.
Swedish authorities have detained the captain of the Norwegian cargo ship Misje Verde following a tragic collision with a recreational boat off Sweden’s west coast, resulting in the deaths of a woman and her young daughter. Prosecutors suspect negligence, emphasizing the need for strict adherence to maritime safety regulations.
The GasLog Shanghai, an LNG carrier, sustained damage while exiting the Strait of Hormuz on Friday, amid reports of two nearby security incidents. GasLog confirmed crew safety and vessel stability, activating emergency protocols. The nature and extent of the damage remain undisclosed as investigations into the incidents continue.
An oil tanker under sanctions, the Caroline Bezengi, is leaking crude off Oman, raising environmental alarms. After reporting issues near Mukalla, Yemen, on June 8, satellite imagery revealed dark slicks, indicating a hull breach. Experts warn the vessel may break apart, complicating the already tense geopolitical situation surrounding Russian oil transport.
The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) is in touch with the families of two Indian nationals missing after the MV AG N Ragnar was attacked near Ukraine’s Odesa port. Four crew members were aboard, with two confirmed safe. Search operations are ongoing, coordinated by Ukrainian and Romanian authorities.
