On October 27, a crew member fell overboard from the Viking Star cruise ship in the Mediterranean. An immediate emergency response was initiated, and a search operation commenced with the Italian Coast Guard. Despite ongoing efforts, the ship resumed its voyage, with Viking expressing condolences to the crew member’s family.
Madhu Nair, Chairman and Managing Director of Cochin Shipyard, announced an order book of approximately ₹20,000 crore, with significant contributions from the merchant vessel sector. He highlighted recent infrastructure investments, including a new dry dock. Looking ahead, Cochin Shipyard aims to strengthen its presence along India’s coasts through strategic partnerships.
V.O. Chidambaranar Port in Tuticorin has emerged as a leader in green shipping corridors in India, emphasizing renewable energy and sustainable practices. Recognized during India Maritime Week 2025, the port’s initiatives, including its role as a green hydrogen hub, are set to attract significant sustainable investments, driving India’s maritime growth.
The inaugural Goa State Session of India Maritime Week 2025 showcased Goa’s commitment to sustainable maritime development. Chief Minister Dr. Pramod Sawant emphasized the theme “Blue Meets Green,” unveiling plans for port infrastructure, green shipping, and advanced technologies. Goa aims to lead India’s vision of eco-friendly growth in the maritime sector.
Karnataka’s Maritime and Waterways Masterplan aims to attract ₹23,000 crore through 125 projects, focusing on coastal districts Dakshina Kannada, Udupi, and Uttara Kannada. The initiative promotes public-private partnerships for port development, tourism, and connectivity, with notable projects like the Keni port, projected to handle 30 million tonnes annually.
Inspectors are set to board the P&O cruise ship Arvia after a tragic lift shaft accident claimed the life of a crew member. The Marine Accident Investigation Branch will assess the situation at the next port. The cruise company has extended condolences and support to the deceased’s family and friends.
The Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways (MoPSW) will host India Maritime Week 2025 from October 27 to 31 in Mumbai. Under the theme “Uniting Oceans, One Maritime Vision,” the event aims to position India as a global maritime hub, featuring over 100,000 delegates and significant international participation.
At the India Maritime Week 2025 in Mumbai, Odisha’s Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi unveiled a bold maritime strategy, signing MoUs worth ₹50,000 crore. This initiative aims to enhance ports, shipping, and marine resources, positioning Odisha as a maritime leader while promoting sustainable practices and economic growth through job creation.
Rolls-Royce has successfully tested the world’s first high-speed marine engine powered solely by methanol at its Friedrichshafen facility. This innovative project, supported by the German Federal Ministry, aims for climate-neutral shipping solutions by 2025. Initial tests show promising results, positioning green methanol as a viable fuel for marine operators.
During a live demonstration aboard the MS Lumière, Shipping Technology and Retina achieved a historic autonomous Dock2Dock voyage. The integration of Retina’s M-Pilot with ST BRAIN and Autonomous Lane Assist enabled the vessel to undock, navigate, and dock autonomously, while the captain maintained oversight for safety throughout the journey.
The Thai Ha 8888 cargo vessel, carrying 5,900 tonnes of cement, sank near Lang Co due to severe weather at 12:30 AM on October 27. Captain Nguyen Van Dong and seven crew members abandoned ship, later rescued by the Long Son 38 vessel. Authorities are monitoring for potential fuel leaks.
InterManager is urging seafarers to participate in a global survey addressing fatalities in enclosed spaces, despite improved safety measures. In 2023, 14 incidents resulted in 34 deaths, primarily in bulk carriers. The survey seeks insights from those affected to enhance training and hazard awareness, aiming to reduce these tragic occurrences.
A crew member aboard P&O Cruises’ Arvia tragically died following an accident during a two-week voyage to Barbados. The incident prompted an unexpected stop in A Coruña, Spain. P&O Cruises expressed condolences, stating their commitment to support the family and friends affected, but details about the accident remain undisclosed.
On Monday, the Maharashtra government signed MOUs worth ₹56,000 crore to boost maritime infrastructure, including port expansions and shipyard constructions. Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis emphasized the importance of these agreements for establishing Maharashtra as a maritime superpower, with significant investments planned for Dighi port and enhancements to water transport in Mumbai.
In Thiruvananthapuram, the MSC Akiteta II, stranded for nearly four months, saw its first crew change. Twelve crew members disembarked, including one from Ghana, while eleven new members boarded. Managed by Waterline Shipping, the transition involved barge transport and necessary immigration formalities, following a court-ordered arrest over a compensation dispute.
