An arrest warrant was issued for Yu, the captain of a Yang Ming containership, amid drug smuggling suspicions. Detained after an inspection at Kaohsiung, authorities found a large quantity of high-purity heroin onboard. Yang Ming Marine Transport Corporation is cooperating with investigations, having alerted officials about potential smuggling activities.
The Offshore Charging Working Group, a coalition of offshore wind and maritime sectors, aims to decarbonize service operations by electrifying service operation vessels (SOVs) and crew transfer vessels (CTVs). Key challenges include early design considerations and ensuring clear commercial access to offshore power for charging, necessitating effective policy frameworks.
A maritime growth organization has welcomed GeoPura, a zero-emission hydrogen power provider, enhancing Teesside’s clean energy reputation. This partnership offers Tees Maritime Cluster members access to hydrogen expertise, fostering collaboration and reducing risks in zero-emission projects. GeoPura’s innovative solutions aim to transform industrial and maritime energy practices sustainably.
The Malaysian Maritime Enforcement Agency (MMEA) has detained two tankers suspected of illegal crude oil transfers in Malaysian waters. Acting on intelligence, MMEA personnel boarded the vessels near Port of Penang. The operation underscores the agency’s commitment to maritime security and its proactive stance against maritime crime in the region.
The Union Budget for 2026 allocates ₹5,164.80 crore to the Ministry of Ports, Shipping, and Waterways, a significant rise from last year’s ₹3,470.58 crore. Key allocations include ₹1,000 crore for the Maritime Development Fund, ₹515 crore for the Shipbuilding Financial Assistance Scheme, and ₹250 crore for capacity development initiatives.
On February 1, Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman presented the 2026-27 Union Budget, highlighting significant advancements in the maritime sector. Key initiatives include establishing new freight corridors, operationalizing 20 waterways, and promoting indigenous seaplane manufacturing to enhance connectivity and boost tourism, while fostering environmentally sustainable cargo transportation.
Three more bodies from the sunken ferry Trisha Kerstin 3 have been recovered near Basilan, raising the confirmed death toll to 40, according to the Philippine Coast Guard. Among the deceased is Coast Guard Seaman Alkhaizar Hadjail, honored for his dedication to public service. An investigation is underway to determine the cause of the incident.
Raymarine has partnered with The Nippon Foundation and GEBCO to advance the Seabed 2030 project, aiming to map the entire ocean floor by 2030. Currently, only 25% is mapped to modern standards. Raymarine will contribute crowd-sourced bathymetric data from vessels, enhancing marine conservation and sustainable ocean resource management.
The search for Captain Gus Sanfilippo, his crew, and a NOAA observer, missing after the Lily Jean sank off Massachusetts, has been suspended. Despite extensive efforts covering 1,000 square miles, severe winter weather hampered rescue attempts. The fishing community mourns the loss, with Governor Maura Healy highlighting the dangers of commercial fishing.
Families of 16 Indian seafarers detained in Iran since November are deeply concerned about their living conditions. Reports reveal the crew is confined in a small room with insufficient food and water. With personal devices confiscated, communication is limited. Families have appealed to the Indian government for assistance amid Iran’s political turmoil.
The International Maritime Organization’s Sub-Committee on Ship Design and Construction (SDC) held its 12th session in January 2023, chaired by Mr. Erik Tvedt. Key outcomes included a draft workplan for a greenhouse gas safety framework and guidelines for remote inspection techniques, alongside efforts to mitigate underwater radiated noise from ships.
Cochin Shipyard Limited (CSL) has secured a contract from Polestar Maritime Limited to build two battery-electric harbour tugs for the Jawaharlal Nehru Port Authority. These tugs, each with a 60-tonne bollard pull, will support the Centre’s Green Tug Transition Programme, promoting greener maritime operations and zero emissions during port activities.
Japan’s MODEC, Norway’s Eld Energy, and Delta Electronics are collaborating to deploy solid oxide fuel cell (SOFC) technology on a floating production, storage, and offloading (FPSO) vessel. This partnership aims to facilitate the maritime energy transition, focusing on zero-carbon solutions and efficient power generation by 2027.
A recent survey by the World Maritime University reveals alarming conditions for seafarers, including excessive workloads and deteriorating mental health. With an average of 71 hours worked weekly, nearly half of US seafarers report poor mental wellbeing, prompting many to consider leaving the profession within five years. Urgent industry changes are needed.
The V.O. Chidambaranar Port Authority has announced a special purpose vehicle to establish a shipbuilding cluster in Tuticorin, enhancing India’s maritime sector. This joint venture, named the National Shipbuilding & Heavy Industries Park, aims to boost domestic shipbuilding capabilities, aligning with the Union Cabinet’s vision for maritime infrastructure growth.
