The luxury river cruise ship Nicko Vision became stranded on the Danube with nearly 200 passengers as they prepared for New Year’s Eve. Low water levels, about 9 inches below normal, hindered rescue efforts. Passengers initially traveled by bus to Budapest but later rejoined the cruise, continuing toward Bratislava.
Norwegian hydropower plants threaten aquatic life due to oversaturated water, causing gas bladder disease in fish. Researchers at NTNU, led by Professor Ole Gunnar Dahlhaug, are investigating this issue exacerbated by extreme weather. Their DeGas project uses ultrasound technology to mitigate dissolved air levels, aiming to protect vulnerable species.
The Saudi Red Sea Authority (SRSA) has launched the first digital Introductory Guide to Coastal Tourism Activities, centralizing vital information for tourists, investors, and industry professionals. This comprehensive resource streamlines access to regulations and procedures, enhancing the coastal tourism sector and supporting Saudi Vision 2030’s growth objectives.
Ocean Infinity has launched a renewed search for the missing Flight MH370, which disappeared in 2014. Utilizing advanced technology, the vessel Armada 86 05 is meticulously scanning challenging underwater terrain. If successful, Ocean Infinity could earn $70 million, but previous searches have yielded no results, underscoring the immense challenges ahead.
Finnish police have seized the cargo vessel “Fitburg,” suspected of sabotaging an undersea telecom cable between Helsinki and Estonia. The incident, occurring in the Gulf of Finland, raises alarms amid a series of similar disruptions. The crew has been detained, and NATO countries remain on high alert for potential threats.
A team from the Viking Ship Museum in Denmark has uncovered the largest medieval cargo ship in Europe, named Svaelget 2. Measuring 100 feet long and dating back to the early 1400s, the ship highlights the era’s long-distance trade, with advanced features like a brick-hearth galley and a unique deckhouse.
Saudi Arabia has launched limited airstrikes on Mukalla’s port in Yemen, alleging unauthorized military equipment shipments by the UAE. This escalation highlights the rivalry between the nations, each supporting different factions in Yemen’s conflict. The UAE denies wrongdoing, emphasizing a focus on counterterrorism amid rising tensions.
Turkish authorities swiftly responded to two tankers near Istanbul in distress due to strong winds. The empty Azerbaijan-flagged Kalbajar and the Turkish-flagged Alatepe, carrying 2,500 tons of chemicals, faced a collision risk as the Kalbajar’s propeller became entangled with the Alatepe’s anchor chain. Emergency tugs were dispatched.
The nine crew members of the LPG gas carrier CGAS Saturn have been safely released after a piracy incident off West Africa. The ordeal began on December 3 when pirates boarded the vessel, abducting the crew. Four remained on board, with one sustaining minor injuries. Repatriation is underway.
India’s maritime heritage is deeply rooted, with shipbuilding traditions evident from the 5th century CE. Ajanta cave murals depict stitched ships made from coir, coconut fiber, and resins. Recently, the INSV Kaundinya’s maiden voyage from Porbandar to Muscat celebrates this legacy, blending ancient craftsmanship with modern design in maritime exploration.
The UN Development Program (UNDP) praised Mexico’s new Sustainable Ocean Plan, a significant step in long-term ocean governance. This policy, replacing the 2018 framework, aligns national efforts with global sustainability goals, emphasizing environmental protection and sustainable ocean production. It promotes marine ecosystem preservation and responsible ocean industries through comprehensive collaboration.
Oil prices held steady on Tuesday as hopes for a Russia-Ukraine peace agreement faded, with tensions rising in the Middle East, particularly Yemen. Brent crude rose to $62.21 a barrel, while U.S. West Texas Intermediate climbed to $58.44. Analysts note limited expectations for short-term breakthroughs in peace talks.
Sagarmala Finance Corporation Limited (SMFCL) has announced a ₹4,300 crore loan disbursement for maritime financing this fiscal year, positioning itself as India’s first NBFC dedicated to this sector. With plans to expand its portfolio to ₹8,000 crore by 2025-26, SMFCL aims to bolster maritime development significantly.
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.
