After months of work, salvors have successfully removed most of the bunker fuel from the grounded MSC Baltic III, significantly reducing pollution risks along Newfoundland’s coast. Utilizing calmer summer weather, the team transferred over 1,000 tonnes of heavy fuel oil for safe disposal, while facing challenges from the vessel’s remote location and severe damage.
The administrative court in Nice has temporarily blocked Mayor Christian Estrosi’s ban on large cruise ships, citing state authority over cruise traffic management. Estrosi’s restrictions aimed to combat pollution and mass tourism, affecting over 200,000 passengers. This reflects a growing trend among tourist destinations addressing the cruise industry’s impact.
A recent report by Sailors’ Society reveals the alarming prevalence of bullying and harassment at sea, with active seafarers facing such behavior up to ten times more than non-seafarers. The report highlights the disproportionate impact on female cadets and LGBTQ+ individuals, urging the maritime industry to foster a safer, more inclusive environment.
US Customs and Border Protection (CBP) removed up to 13 crew members from Victory Cruise Lines’ ships during port calls in Detroit. Reports indicate some were handcuffed, with one facing child pornography charges. The company is cooperating with authorities, raising concerns among international crew members about potential immigration sweeps.
On Monday, a Frontex vessel sank off Lesvos during a search for migrants after their boat from Turkey encountered difficulties. Rough seas caused the patrol boat to strike a rock, leading to flooding. Six crew members were rescued, while authorities continue to search for four missing individuals. An investigation is underway.
The Philippine government confirmed that eight out of 21 seafarers from the MV Eternity C have safely arrived in Jizan, Saudi Arabia, following the vessel’s sinking by Houthi militants. The Department of Foreign Affairs is coordinating their care and repatriation, while prohibiting Filipino seafarers from entering the Red Sea and Gulf of Aden.
A recent advisory from Manila law firm Del Rosario and Del Rosario mandates that licensed manning agencies reroute ships with Filipino seafarers away from high-risk areas, particularly the Red Sea and Gulf of Aden. This directive emphasizes the seafarers’ rights to refuse sailing in dangerous zones and ensures their safety.
The Nuclear Energy Maritime Organization (NEMO) has achieved NGO advisory status at the International Maritime Organization (IMO) and will participate in the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) General Conference meetings. This milestone enhances NEMO’s role in ensuring safe nuclear energy use in maritime environments, contributing to global decarbonization and energy security efforts.
Machilipatnam is revitalizing its historic port, now 48% complete at Manginapudi. This ambitious project, involving massive dredging and seawall construction, aims to restore trade routes impeded since British rule. Both Andhra Pradesh and Telangana foresee significant economic benefits, enhancing exports and operational efficiency through a new freight corridor.
Union Minister Sarbananda Sonowal launched over ₹276 crore in capacity-building and modernization initiatives at Visakhapatnam Port. The event included the foundation laying of six major projects aimed at enhancing port capabilities. Key projects feature the B-Ramp and a new fishing harbor jetty, significantly benefiting local commerce and community needs.
The sailing community is urged to participate in an anonymous global survey documenting collisions at sea involving sailing boats and marine life. With over 50% of reported collisions causing vessel damage, this initiative aims to create a comprehensive strike log to identify hotspots and mitigate risks, enhancing ocean ecosystem stewardship.
In response to recent deadly attacks in the Red Sea, the Philippines may limit its nationals from working on vessels in high-risk areas. The Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) is focused on ensuring safety and transparency, requiring risk assessments and immediate reporting of incidents to protect Filipino seafarers and their families.
HD Hyundai Robotics and HD Hyundai Samho are collaborating to test German robots in shipbuilding, opting for Neura Robotics’ humanoid robot, 4NE1. Designed to assist in workflows amid labor shortages, this AI-powered robot can learn and handle complex tasks. The partnership aims to enhance ship assembly and welding efficiency.
MSC Group is enhancing its luxury cruise fleet, with Fincantieri recently completing the float out of the third ship, part of a six-ship series. The first two vessels, Explora I and Explora II, feature all-suite accommodations and innovative designs, with a significant investment of $3.7 billion planned for this initiative.
A new Sustainable Maritime Transport Centre will be established in Powai, Mumbai, under BIMSTEC, as announced by Union Minister Sarbananda Sonowal during the second BIMSTEC Ports Conclave. This centre aims to implement the Maritime Transport Cooperation Agreement, enhancing maritime policies, digital transformations, and workforce skills to boost trade and connectivity in the Bay of Bengal.
