Eastern Pacific Shipping (EPS) has received the new eco-friendly very large gas carrier, Rosablanche, from Samsung Heavy Industries. This addition enhances EPS’s dual-fuel fleet, featuring advanced cargo handling and fuel systems. EPS is also expanding into the ethane sector, with plans for six new carriers anticipated by 2027.
India’s cruise tourism is evolving from luxury to accessibility, appealing to diverse age groups. With supportive policies and improved infrastructure, India aims for one million cruise passengers by 2029. Interest from Millennials and Gen Z is driving market growth, but challenges like port infrastructure need addressing for success in this sector.
Concerns regarding the quality of very low sulfur fuel oil (VLSFO) have resurfaced, with over 45% of global supplies failing to meet ISO standards. Sediments and impurities threaten fuel systems, risking costly outages. Experts emphasize rigorous monitoring to ensure operational reliability, as incidents in Houston and Singapore highlight the dangers of contaminated fuel.
The Korea Atomic Energy Research Institute and Samsung Heavy Industries have achieved a groundbreaking milestone by obtaining the world’s first Approval in Principle for an LNG carrier powered by a small modular salt reactor. This innovative reactor technology promises enhanced safety and efficiency, marking a significant advancement in maritime drive technology.
Delegates at the TUC Congress from September 7-10, 2025, unanimously endorsed Nautilus International’s motion on “Future-Proofing UK Maritime Skills and Training.” The motion calls for full government support in maritime training, including 100% SMarT funding and a national training provider, emphasizing the urgent need for skilled maritime professionals.
The UK Marine Accident Investigation Branch (MAIB) has released a report on the tragic sinking of the fishing vessel Argos Georgia near the Falkland Islands, resulting in 13 fatalities. The investigation identified a malfunctioning shell door as the primary cause, allowing water to flood the trawler and lead to its eventual sinking.
The trial regarding the tragic collision between the Commodore Goodwill and fishing trawler L’Ecume II continues, with crew members Artur Sevash-Zade and Lewis Carr facing manslaughter charges. Testimonies reveal Carr labeled the L’Ecume II as “dangerous” before the incident, which resulted in the deaths of three crew members. The case centers on alleged gross negligence.
At the APPEC conference in Singapore, shipping executives highlighted that the transition to alternative fuels will accelerate post-2030 due to stricter emissions regulations. Emma Mazhari of Maersk emphasized a shift toward dual-fuel vessels, while Takeshi Hashimoto noted a focus on LNG and methanol, despite current decarbonization challenges.
A new report warns that the maritime industry’s decarbonization goals are jeopardized without urgent action. Released by the Environmental Defense Fund and Lloyd’s Register, it identifies over $1 trillion in investment gaps threatening climate objectives. Innovative financing strategies, like the Maritime Multiplier and Time Stacked Offtake, are essential for attracting necessary capital.
Vizhinjam International Port has marked a milestone with the arrival of the MSC Virginia, a container ship measuring 16.95 meters in draft, the deepest at the harbor. This achievement, celebrated during the Onam Festival, demonstrates the port’s capability to handle large vessels, solidifying its status as a premier deep-water hub in India.
Haldia Dock Complex (HDC) celebrated a major milestone with the arrival of the MV SITC ZHI, the deepest-draft container ship ever handled at the port. This achievement showcases HDC’s enhanced capabilities and commitment to supporting global trade, reaffirming its position as a vital hub in India’s logistics network.
The Global Sumud Flotilla’s primary vessel, the “Family Boat,” was reportedly struck by a drone in Tunisian waters, carrying activists like Yasemin Acar and Greta Thunberg. Although the boat suffered fire damage, all six onboard are safe. The GSF remains undeterred in its mission to support Gaza’s residents.
The Director General of Maritime Administration plans to blacklist 86 foreign ships linked to the abandonment of Indian seafarers. This move aims to address human rights issues and enforce compliance among Recruitment and Placement Services License holders, ensuring repatriation and wage settlement for affected seafarers, amidst rising concerns in the shipping industry.
ClassNK has granted Approval in Principle (AiP) for an ammonia-fueled LPG/NH3 carrier, a collaboration between Kawasaki Heavy Industries and MITSUI E&S. This certification confirms the vessel’s compliance with regulatory and safety standards, marking a significant advancement in the maritime industry’s shift towards zero-carbon fuels like ammonia.
BIO-UV Group has introduced a containerized ballast water treatment system for the offshore wind sector, essential for compliance with regulations against invasive species. Funded by the EU’s ELBE EUROCLUSTER, the system utilizes BIO-SEA technology in standard containers, enabling on-site treatment during windmill assembly. Initial trials confirm its effective dual-stage treatment capability.
