Royal Caribbean has appointed Sailor as the chief dog officer (CDO) for the upcoming ship, Star of the Seas, following the success of Rover on Icon of the Seas. The new ship will offer waterparks, dining options, and a refreshed Empire Supper Club. Legend of the Seas will debut in 2026.
The collapse of the Carola Bridge in Dresden last weekend shocked the city and disrupted inland shipping on the Elbe River. The cause, hydrogen-induced stress corrosion, was unexpected and difficult to detect. With WWII bombs found at the site, the demolition process is complex. Engineers warn of further risks as surviving bridge spans face corrosion issues.
Chennai Port has reached a significant milestone by handling a record-breaking 1.66 million TEUs by February 28, surpassing its previous record. This achievement was accomplished a month ahead of schedule, demonstrating the port’s efficiency. The collaborative efforts of stakeholders have contributed to this success, showcasing the port’s commitment to excellence.
V.Group has launched the Voyage Loyalty program, aimed at improving crew retention in the maritime industry. Seafarers can earn SeaStars points for their service and training, redeemable for goods and rewards via an app. Initially successful among Filipino crew, the program will now be rolled out globally to combat crew shortages.
Nominations are now open for the Seatrade Maritime News 20Under40 initiative, celebrating outstanding individuals under 40 in the global maritime industry. This year, the program has expanded beyond the Middle East. Candidates are sought for their leadership, innovation, and contributions, with finalists announced at the upcoming UAE Maritime Week.
Anglo-Eastern has inaugurated a new LNG/ammonia bunkering station skid at Mumbai Maritime Academy on February 20, 2025, enhancing training for safe fueling of LNG- and ammonia-powered vessels. This advanced facility aims to equip industry professionals with essential skills in handling emerging fuels, promoting maritime safety and sustainability amid rising demand.
In February 2025, Jawaharlal Nehru Port Authority (JNPA) experienced a significant increase in container traffic, handling 616,164 TEUs, which was 9.14% higher than the same month in 2024. The total cargo handled during this month was 7.56 million tonnes, showing a 2.09% increase compared to February 2024.
On February 26, 2025, the Royal Caribbean cruise ship Brilliance of the Seas rescued 11 refugees stranded in the Gulf of Mexico. Discovered adrift in an overcrowded boat, they were in desperate need of help. The ship’s crew swiftly launched a rescue operation, providing essential care and coordinating with authorities.
Finnish authorities have released the product tanker, Eagle S, after being detained for 53 days due to damage to undersea transmission cables. Three crew members are still held for investigation. The vessel was escorted out of Finnish waters to Port Said, Egypt. Authorities have rectified deficiencies on board and suggested sabotage as the cause.
The iconic SS United States arrived in Mobile, Alabama, ahead of schedule after being towed from Philadelphia. The vessel will be converted into the world’s largest artificial reef. Captain Mike Vinik reported a smooth journey, providing thrilling views for spectators along the coast. The project’s next phase involves extensive stripping and cleaning.
Suhora Technologies, a leading space data analytics company in India, has been granted the prestigious IN-SPACe Seed Fund Grant for their innovative work in the marine sector using space technology. Their cutting-edge solutions enhance Maritime Domain Awareness and contribute to ocean monitoring, maritime security, and disaster response efforts.
Overseas Shipholding Group, Inc. (OSG), a leader in energy transportation, has expanded its use of GIT Coatings’ graphene-based propeller coating, XGIT-PROP, to seven additional crude oil tankers. OSG experienced performance gains and fuel savings beyond expectations, confirming the coating’s effectiveness as the vessel traveled across the Pacific Ocean.
The national waterways project, expected to be completed by 2025, aims to attract private sector investments for terminal construction and streamlining processes within India’s waterway network. The government hopes this will increase private entity involvement, boost infrastructure development, and enhance business operations, aligning with the Prime Minister’s vision for sustainable growth.
The Maritime and Port Authority of Singapore (MPA) reported an unauthorized boarding of the Singapore-registered chemical tanker, Basset, outside Singapore territorial waters. One crew member was injured, prompting the vessel to anchor in Singapore waters. The ReCAAP ISC warned of increasing sea robberies in the Singapore Strait, with 21 incidents reported in January and February 2025.
AP Moller-Maersk recently held a name ceremony for its latest dual-fuel-methanol ship at Gateway Terminals India, emphasizing its commitment to sustainable maritime development. The event, attended by top officials and dignitaries including Indian ministers, highlighted India’s role in green shipping initiatives. The newly named Albert Maersk signifies Maersk’s efforts towards decarbonization and use of alternative fuels.
