The INSV Kaundinya, a traditional stitched sailing vessel, has set sail from Porbandar to Muscat, retracing ancient trade routes across the Indian Ocean. Built by artisans using the unique Tankai method, it showcases India’s maritime heritage and shipbuilding skills, embodying a deep connection to the sea and cultural legacy.
The Caspian Pipeline Consortium has halted oil exports from its Black Sea terminal due to severe weather and full reservoirs. This disruption follows a Ukrainian drone attack that limited loading operations, causing Kazakhstan’s oil production to decline. December exports are expected to be the lowest in 14 months, averaging 1.082 million barrels daily.
In 2025, the subsea vessel market transitioned to a cautious outlook despite strong long-term demand driven by deepwater projects. High dayrates for AHC crane vessels persisted, but a shift towards contractor-controlled fleets and short-term charters introduced volatility. Newbuild orders surged, indicating potential growth as the market stabilizes by 2026.
The cruise ship Coral Adventurer has been detained in Papua New Guinea after running aground near Dreghafen Point. Despite listing slightly, no damage or pollution has been reported, and all 124 personnel are safe. The Australian Maritime Safety Authority has raised concerns about the vessel’s seaworthiness and compliance with safety regulations.
Fire authorities at Tanjung Perak port in Surabaya successfully controlled a significant engine room fire aboard the interisland containership Verizon after four hours on December 29. Fortunately, there were no injuries reported. The fire, originating near the generator, spread to other areas, prompting a swift response from firefighting crews.
d’Amico International Shipping S.A. has signed a shipbuilding contract for two new Medium Range 1 product tankers with Guangzhou Shipyard International. Valued at $43.2 million each, the vessels will be delivered in April and July 2029. This investment supports d’Amico’s fleet renewal strategy, enhancing efficiency and capacity.
The Australian-flagged cruise ship Coral Adventurer ran aground near Dregerhafen Point, Papua New Guinea, early Saturday. Carrying 123 individuals, it grounded without reported injuries. The Australian Maritime Safety Authority detained the ship due to safety concerns, while the Australian Transport Safety Bureau launched an investigation into the incident.
The Orissa High Court has ordered the arrest of the Jordanian vessel MV The Patron near Paradip Port due to an admiralty suit by Singapore’s JALDHI Overseas Pte Ltd. The company seeks $202,000 for alleged breaches in a charter agreement, following significant delays caused by the vessel’s engine failure.
Over the weekend, a ruptured pipe at BWC Terminals in Channelview, Texas, released about one million gallons of sulfuric acid. While some spill entered the Houston Ship Channel, most was contained onshore. Two individuals were hospitalized but later released. Environmental monitoring is ongoing, with no immediate effects reported.
The commission’s revision is pivotal for advancing the European Ocean Pact, emphasizing ocean preservation and sustainable management. The upcoming European Ocean Act aims for a cohesive governance approach. Public input will be sought in early 2026, with consultations open until March 9, encouraging stakeholder engagement in ocean sustainability efforts.
Six Filipino seafarers, who endured harsh conditions and over two months of unpaid wages, were safely repatriated to the Philippines from Suriname on December 26, 2025. Welcomed by DMW Assistant Secretary Maria Regina Angela Galias, they received immediate financial aid and support for their return, emphasizing the commitment to protect overseas workers’ rights.
Goa, known for its stunning beaches, is revitalizing its industrial and commercial landscape. With the resumption of mining and enhanced maritime trade, the state anticipates a 13.87% economic growth. Chief Minister Pramod Sawant’s budget promotes various industries, aiming to balance economic expansion with environmental sustainability as Goa approaches 2026.
The expedition cruise ship Coral Adventurer ran aground off Papua New Guinea during its inaugural voyage after a recent passenger death. All 80 passengers and 43 crew members are safe, with no reports of flooding or pollution. A response officer has boarded to assist, as investigations continue into the earlier incident.
Weathernews Inc. has introduced “SeaNavigator for Master,” a revolutionary AI-driven platform enhancing maritime decision-making. This technology provides ship captains with real-time forecasts on weather hazards and navigational conditions. The platform features a Voyage Route Simulation tool, optimizing sailing routes, thus bridging communication gaps for safer, more efficient maritime operations.
The Ukrainian Cabinet of Ministers has approved a draft law to reform merchant shipping and inland navigation. This initiative aims to align Ukraine’s maritime regulations with international standards, introducing safety requirements, regulating vessel traffic, and establishing a national digital platform to streamline operations and reduce corruption risks in maritime transport.
