Princess Cruises Third Officer Shaina Moriones made history as the first female cum laude at the MOL Magsaysay Maritime Academy in the Philippines. Hailing from Cebu City, she defied traditional expectations by pursuing a STEM maritime education. Her training with Princess Cruises deepened her passion for seafaring, inspiring future generations.
At Nor-Shipping 2025, DNV reinforced its partnership with India, focusing on collaboration in the maritime sector. CEO Remi Eriksen engaged in discussions with Minister Sarbananda Sonowal, leading to a newbuilding agreement with Garden Reach Shipbuilders and a comprehensive MoU with Larsen & Toubro, enhancing green shipping initiatives in India.
A Russian ship captain recently caused a minor collision in Bremen, Germany, while navigating from Terminal 1. Despite no injuries, both vessels were damaged. Authorities found the captain with a blood alcohol level over 1.6 per mille, leading to a $6,000 deposit. This incident underscores the vital need for sobriety in maritime operations.
Garden Reach Shipbuilders and Engineers (GRSE) is poised to launch a greenfield shipbuilding facility near Kolkata to meet the growing demand in defense and commercial sectors. With an enhanced capacity to construct 24 ships simultaneously, GRSE plans to boost production to 28 ships by 2025, strengthening its position in the maritime industry.
A proposal for a maritime university in Mangaluru is gaining momentum, led by MP Capt Brijesh Chowta. This initiative aligns with significant anniversaries, aiming to harness coastal Karnataka’s marine potential. Supported by NMPA Chairman A.V. Ramana, the university will focus on practical and theoretical marine education, fostering innovation and skill-building.
The National Bureau of Investigation of Finland has completed its inquiry into the December 25, 2024, cable damage in the Gulf of Finland. Senior officers of the tanker Eagle S are now suspected of aggravated criminal mischief, with evidence pointing to their negligence in navigation and anchor deployment during the incident.
After over seven years of anticipation, dredging surveys for the Brahmaputra River have commenced at Bogibeel. A team from the Inland Waterways Authority of India is focusing on a critical 300-meter stretch to enhance navigation, significantly improving ferry, cruise, and cargo services in the region. Actual dredging is expected soon.
The Joint Maritime Information Center (JMIC) reports no confirmed threats to maritime traffic but may revise this if scenarios like missile use near chokepoints or attacks on commercial vessels arise. Owners and charterers are urged to conduct thorough risk assessments before entering the Arabian Gulf to ensure vessel safety.
Kochi’s port is set to emerge as a pivotal base for offshore oil exploration after a formal agreement between Oil India and the Cochin Port Authority. The partnership aims to develop essential infrastructure, including a logistics center and specialized facilities, enhancing operational efficiency and promoting sustainable practices in India’s energy sector.
The Directorate General of Shipping has alerted Indian seafarers and vessels about the rising tensions between Iran and Israel. Following an advisory from the Ministry of External Affairs, operators are advised to exercise caution while in Iranian ports or transiting through the Strait of Hormuz, prioritizing crew safety and adhering to local protocols.
V.O. Chidambaranar (VOC) Port has been awarded first place for Excellence in Cost Management for 2024 by The Institute of Cost Accountants of India, marking its seventh win since 2008. Key achievements include manpower optimization, sustainable practices, and a remarkable operating ratio of 29.45%, showcasing a commitment to efficiency and environmental responsibility.
UK’s Maritime Solent is seeking a new chair to lead its board, a crucial role in shaping the region’s maritime sector. The chair will drive transformation, promote growth, and enhance partnerships to maintain the Solent’s status as a premier maritime hub. Applications are open until July 13, with interviews the following week.
The first successful ship-to-ship transfer of ammonia in Western Australia marks a milestone in maritime decarbonization. Led by the Global Centre for Maritime Decarbonization, the pilot at Port Dampier demonstrated safe ammonia transfers in offshore conditions, paving the way for future ammonia bunkering operations globally.
Recent regional tensions have led to significant airspace closures, impacting flights in Iranian, Iraqi, and Jordanian skies, and halting operations at Israel’s Ben Gurion Airport. Eurocontrol reported nearly 2,000 affected flights in Europe, with 650 cancellations in one day, raising operational costs and altering aviation insurance dynamics.
Sea Lord Containers has launched a state-of-the-art cryogenic LPG terminal in Mangalore, enhancing India’s energy logistics with 82,000 metric tons of storage. Operated by Aegis Vopak, this facility promises safer LPG handling, better seasonal demand management, and aligns with national clean energy goals while fostering sustainable coastal infrastructure development.
