Seakeeper’s motion control technology has revolutionized the performance of workboats, exemplified by the partnership with Gladding-Hearn and the Charleston Pilots. The christening of the Fort Ripley in 2014 marked a milestone, showcasing its dual-purpose design and Tier III compliant propulsion. Equipped with Seakeeper, the vessel enhances stability, safety, and operational efficiency.
The Greek Ombudsman’s inquiry into a tragic shipwreck in 2023 revealed that the coast guard failed to follow maritime regulations, leading to the loss of many lives. Survivors’ testimonies were confirmed, and disciplinary action was recommended against eight coast guard officers. Critical failures included delays in the search-and-rescue operation and lack of proper response.
On November 27, 2024, a bulk carrier off the coast of Virginia experienced explosions due to methane gas buildup while transporting “Bailey High Vol Coking Coal.” Investigations revealed safety risks from elevated methane levels in other holds. Compliance with safety standards, accurate shipping declarations, and proactive measures are crucial to prevent accidents and ensure maritime safety.
Rewriting Women into Maritime History and the SHE_SEES exhibition are on a mission to share the untold stories of women in the maritime industry globally. Led by Emilie Sandy, this three-year initiative aims to empower women to shape their own narratives. The program seeks female harbour pilots worldwide to participate in SHE_SEES HER VOICE.
India has launched a significant maritime initiative to boost trade and its role in global shipping, featuring the Bharat Container Line to reduce reliance on foreign operators. This effort includes a $3 billion Maritime Development Fund focused on shipbuilding and port infrastructure, enhancing economic connectivity through international partnerships and supply chains.
At the recent Capital Link Forum in Athens, shipping organizations expressed deep concerns about seafarer safety amid escalating geopolitical tensions and piracy. Industry stakeholders underscored the necessity for improved safety protocols, emphasizing a collaborative approach among governments and leaders to safeguard maritime professionals facing diverse threats in an increasingly complex environment.
CMA CGM is revising its fleet steering procedures after the CMA CGM Puccini lost steering control and collided with a navigational beacon in Melbourne’s Yarra River. An investigation revealed that a hydraulic valve was improperly left open, and the crew’s limited understanding of steering hydraulics contributed to the incident.
The NextWave Seafarers Project, led by IMO and KSA, aims to address global seafarer shortage by providing training to 20 cadets from LDCs and SIDS through Bahri Shipping Line. It aims to promote gender diversity, create a talent pipeline, and inspire similar programs worldwide. Collaboration is invited to build a resilient maritime workforce.
Panama’s maritime industry has excelled in meeting international safety and environmental standards, boasting a remarkable 96.5% compliance rate. The Panama Maritime Authority closely monitors the fleet, ensuring adherence to strict criteria set by global frameworks. With a growing registry and emphasis on quality, Panama remains a top choice for ship registration worldwide.
Seaspan has invested $2.5 million in new skills training for Indigenous People in Greater Vancouver, partnering with ACCESS. The program offers industry-recognized training in shipbuilding trades and support services. Additional funding will assist students in completing their training, emphasizing the importance of creating economic opportunities for Indigenous youth in the marine industry.
Austal Australasia, a subsidiary of Austal Limited, has secured a contract worth A$265 to A$275 million from Gotlandsbolaget of Sweden for a 130-meter hydrogen-ready vehicle passenger ferry. This high-speed ROPAX catamaran will feature a unique propulsion system with gas and steam turbines, aiming to redefine commercial ferry capabilities with a focus on sustainability and efficiency.
During a state visit to France, Indian PM Narendra Modi and French President Emmanuel Macron met with Rodolphe Saadé, CEO of CMA CGM, to discuss the India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor. CMA CGM, a global maritime and logistics company, plays a key role in enhancing connectivity between India and Europe, with a focus on sustainability and decarbonization efforts.
Kongsberg Maritime has developed a groundbreaking mooring solution for Offshore Construction Vessels, enhancing their capabilities. By integrating specialized equipment into the design of newbuild OSCVs, owners can now handle a wider range of mooring tasks independently. This advancement addresses the shortage of vessels for large-scale mooring installations, making OSCVs more efficient and cost-effective in offshore projects.
After a tragic accident on the ferry Lastovo last year that resulted in the death of three seafarers, the Croatian government has taken unprecedented accountability measures. The maritime ministry absolved the crew of any fault and decided to expel the CEO of the ferry operator, along with the entire board of directors.
Subsea Global Solutions successfully completed a complex in-water thruster installation and rudder bushing replacement, avoiding drydocking and keeping the vessel on schedule. The project in Portland involved round-the-clock shifts, custom cofferdam fabrication, and expert dive teams overcoming challenging conditions. Their efficient execution highlights their expertise in in-water technical repairs.
