The Maritime and Coastguard Agency (MCA) is spearheading a project to modernize seafarer training in the UK, aiming to set a gold standard for safer and greener shipping globally. UK submissions to the IMO’s HTW sub-committee have been accepted for consideration as a major amendment to the STCW convention.
Mitsui O.S.K. Lines (MOL) successfully completed a biodiesel-blended marine fuel bunkering operation on its capsize bulk carrier, Midnight Dream, in collaboration with BHP Group. By using biofuel derived from organic sources, MOL aims to reduce CO₂ emissions and embrace more sustainable practices in the shipping industry. This marks a significant step towards a greener future.
The 20th Session of the BIMSTEC Ministerial Meeting in Bangkok saw Indian External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar in attendance. The Ministers signed the Agreement on Maritime Transport Cooperation and finalized the draft Declaration of the 6th BIMSTEC Summit. The meeting aimed to enhance regional maritime partnerships and outline the future course of cooperation.
In a recent meeting between Prime Minister Modi and Thailand’s Paetongtarn Shinawatra, India and Thailand solidified their bilateral relationship through strategic partnerships. Agreements were signed to enhance cooperation in digital technologies, maritime heritage, small industries, and aligning policies. The focus on crucial sectors like defense and security highlights the commitment to mutual growth and friendship.
The RMT transport union is pushing for changes to help seafarers, citing a study showing many lack access to shore leave. Shockingly, 26% get no leave, while 70% rarely go ashore during their contracts. General secretary Eddie Dempsey warns of fatigue due to inaccurate work hour reporting. He urges global reforms for seafarers’ well-being.
According to a report, the Solong departed from Grangemouth in Scotland carrying various products, including some designated as dangerous, en route to Rotterdam. The collision with the Stena Immaculate occurred the next day, with the Solong traveling at a speed of 16 knots. Both vessels lacked a dedicated lookout on the bridge, contributing to the incident.
Seaspan Shipyards has started building the Canadian Coast Guard’s new heavy polar icebreaker, the first of its kind in Canada in 60 years. This vessel will support Arctic operations and emergency response, with advanced features like scientific labs and helicopter decks. The project is part of Seaspan’s commitment to the National Shipbuilding Strategy.
PPG’s SIGMAGLIDE® 2390 fouling release hull coating offers a solution to reduce fuel consumption and emissions intensity for ship owners. With a 100% pure silicone binder system, it can decrease emissions by up to 35% compared to traditional antifoulings. The electrostatic application technique further enhances sustainability benefits by reducing overspray and waste.
A recent project by the Maersk Mc-Kinney Møller Center focused on converting Kamsarmax bulk carriers to dual-fuel methanol operations. The project aimed to assess the feasibility of retrofitting fuel oil-powered vessels to run on methanol, with Approval in Principle from Japan’s ClassNK. It highlights the potential for low-emission solutions in the maritime industry.
Japan recently launched its first hydrogen dual-fuel tug as part of the “Zero Emission Ships Project” sponsored by The Nippon Foundation. The vessel, equipped with a high-power output hydrogen dual-fuel internal combustion engine and a large-capacity high-pressure hydrogen gas storage system, aims to maintain operational performance while using hydrogen fuel.
Maritime professionals are driven by more than just competitive salaries. Factors like career growth, recognition, autonomy, challenging work, and work-life balance play a significant role in their loyalty to a company. Companies that prioritize these aspects are more likely to retain employees in the maritime industry, ultimately benefiting both parties.
The Andhra Pradesh state cabinet is considering a captive port in Anakapalle to enhance economic growth and logistics. AM/NS India plans to establish a steel plant with 24 million metric tonnes capacity and ₹1.47 lakh crore investment. The port project will create 17 berths and generate around 8,000 jobs, showcasing the region’s potential for industrial development.
The Indian government plans to sell a 4.83% stake in Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders, aiming to divest its ownership in state-owned companies. The sale of 11.4 million shares at a floor price of 2,525 rupees per share is expected to attract investor interest and increase liquidity. This move reflects the government’s strategy to unlock value.
Two European river cruise boats recently collided in separate incidents, one on the Rhine and another in Poland’s Szczecin Lagoon. While the Rhine collision left a cruise ship with significant damage but no injuries among passengers, the Szczecin incident resulted in nine injuries, prompting investigations into safety protocols and causes.
Miros, a global ocean insights specialist, has launched the Oil Spill Detection (OSD) Monitoring app in Miros Cloud. This new solution offers real-time visibility, centralized collaboration, and full accountability for offshore operators. Users can monitor, track, and respond to oil spills faster, minimizing environmental impact and reducing operational costs.
