Lloyd’s Register, EXMAR, and the Belgian FPS for Mobility and Transport have developed interim guidelines for the safe use of ammonia as fuel on gas carriers. This initiative, which began over two years ago, aims to facilitate the maritime industry’s transition to sustainable fuel alternatives, addressing safety concerns while promoting flexibility in vessel design.
The U.S. is intensifying efforts to intercept vessels transporting Venezuelan oil, following the seizure of a tanker—the first since 2019 sanctions. This military buildup aims to pressure President Maduro, prompting shipowners to reconsider operations in Venezuelan waters as risks escalate. Seizures target vessels linked to sanctioned nations like Iran.
The oil tanker market is grappling with a fierce shortage, leading new vessels, usually designated for refined fuels, to pivot to crude transport. In a stark contrast to 2024, six supertankers made empty maiden voyages to load crude oil this year, driven by soaring demand and shifting shipping dynamics.
On December 11, Ukrainian drones targeted the Filanovsky oil rig in the Caspian Sea, a significant escalation in disrupting Russian energy production. The strikes halted operations at over 20 wells, impacting Russia’s oil output. This offensive underscores Ukraine’s intensified campaign against Russian oil facilities to weaken Moscow’s military finances.
The BIMCO Documentary Committee has introduced new clauses for Memoranda of Agreements (MoAs) regarding ship sales, addressing the complexities of the FuelEU Maritime Regulation and EU Emissions Trading System. These clauses clarify responsibilities, costs, and data-sharing obligations, ensuring both buyers and sellers navigate evolving maritime regulations effectively.
On Thursday morning, the ferry Ternen in Norway overshot its berth, colliding with a historic building on Herfol Island. The incident, occurring around 9:30 AM, temporarily halted ferry services. Fortunately, the six passengers were unharmed. Witnesses suggested a technical issue may have contributed to the mishap.
Japan is set to launch its first autonomous navigation ferry, the Olympia Dream Seto, starting operations on December 11. This initiative, part of the MEGURI 2040 project, aims to enhance maritime safety and efficiency. The ferry can accommodate 500 passengers and 60 cars while navigating autonomously, marking a significant technological advancement.
A fully loaded Very Large Crude Carrier (VLCC) faced severe weather damage near Ile d’Ouessant, France, with winds over 60 knots and waves exceeding 10 meters. The incident highlighted inadequate planning, leading to the loss of critical safety equipment. Key lessons stress the importance of weather monitoring and prioritizing safety.
Fincantieri’s Marghera shipyard has successfully floated out the Seven Seas Prestige, an ultra-luxury cruise ship for Regent Seven Seas Cruises. This new vessel, weighing 76,550 gross tons and measuring 257 meters, will accommodate 822 passengers with a crew of 630, ensuring an exceptional service experience. The ship features the largest suite ever on a cruise ship.
On December 9, Union Minister Sarbananda Sonowal announced key advancements in India’s maritime sector. Under Prime Minister Modi’s leadership, the focus is on enhancing infrastructure, digital innovation, and sustainable shipping practices. This strategic approach aims to modernize the industry, improve efficiency, and support global climate change efforts.
The United Nations has launched the first-ever Decade of Sustainable Transport (2026–2035) in New York, emphasizing collaboration among governments, industry, and academia. The initiative aims to enhance cleaner mobility and access to essential services, with 83 global commitments supporting clean transport and significant investments in renewable fuels to reduce emissions.
Svitzer has signed a shipbuilding agreement with Cochin Shipyard to construct four battery-electric TRAnsverse 2600e tugs, marking the first of this design in India. The collaboration supports Svitzer’s global fleet renewal and aligns with India’s Maritime India Vision 2030, emphasizing green transitions in port operations. Deliveries are expected by 2027-2028.
Danish shipping leader Maersk is expanding its low-emission fuel options by testing ethanol alongside methanol in its dual-fuel fleet. Initial trials on the container vessel Laura Mærsk showed promising results with a 10% ethanol blend, leading to plans for further tests, including a 50/50 ethanol-methanol mixture. This initiative supports Maersk’s goal of achieving net-zero emissions by 2040.
Ukraine has intensified its maritime offensive, launching a third sea drone attack on the Comoros-flagged Dashan in the Black Sea. This strike targets Russia’s oil trade amid rising tensions, while the Ukrainian Security Service confirmed two previous attacks on other tankers, indicating a coordinated strategy amid ongoing sanctions.
CMA CGM’s “She Sails” program, celebrating its first anniversary, has effectively doubled the number of women on board its vessels, increasing from 200 to 403. With a goal of 1,000 female seafarers by 2030, the initiative enhances maritime careers and fosters mentorship, inspiring future generations of women at sea.
