Udupi Cochin Shipyard has launched six 3800 TDW general cargo vessels for Norway’s Wilson ASA, celebrated by dignitaries including Martine Aamdal Bottheim. Wilson ASA, a key player in Europe’s short sea fleet, has ordered eight additional vessels, marking a significant milestone in their partnership with Cochin Shipyard. Stay informed with Maritime Gateway.
Negotiations are ongoing between a local representative for a Chinese fishing vessel and tribal elders representing pirates who seized the boat off the coast of Somalia. The demand for the release of the crew members is now set at $10 million, with reports suggesting possible inside involvement in the incident. EU forces are investigating the situation.
Michael Virgil, a 35-year-old man, passed away aboard Royal Caribbean’s Navigator of the Seas after being subdued by the security team following an outburst. The cause of death is still unknown, and steps are being taken to protect the privacy of those involved. Virgil leaves behind a wife and 7-year-old son.
The council has updated Operation ATALANTA’s mandate to enhance maritime security in Somalia, the Gulf of Aden, the West Indian Ocean, and the Red Sea. The goal is to combat piracy and illicit trafficking at sea by strengthening regional maritime security. Collaboration with Operation ASPIDES and rebranding the Maritime Security Center will further bolster these efforts.
The Neelkamal, a private passenger ship bound for the Elephanta Caves near Mumbai, capsized, causing multiple fatalities. The incident occurred during the popular tourist journey from the Gateway of India. Concerns have been raised about safety measures for such excursions, prompting calls for stricter regulations to protect passengers and crew on similar trips.
Eastern Shipbuilding Group (ESG) has commenced cutting steel for the first of four advanced escort tugs for Saltchuk Marine, with delivery scheduled for 2026. ESG’s Chairman Joey D’Isernia is thrilled to construct these cutting-edge vessels, while Saltchuk Marine’s CEO Jason Childs praises ESG as the perfect partner for their harbor tugboat project.
The Union Ministry of Ports, Shipping, and Waterways plans to acquire over 5,000 acres of salt pan lands in Maharashtra for industrial and maritime infrastructure projects, including the Vadhvan Port in Palghar. This strategic move aligns with the government’s efforts to boost India’s maritime trade capacity and support economic growth in key sectors.
DNV has introduced competence standards for methanol and a recommended practice for ammonia to address safety risks in the maritime industry. With a growing number of vessels ordered with alternative-fueled capability, it is crucial for shipboard crew to have the necessary knowledge and skills to ensure safe operations.
Wärtsilä, a technology group, is leading the way in supporting the marine industry’s decarbonization efforts. They secured an order to supply a complete propulsion package for a methanol-ready cement carrier vessel, the world’s largest of its kind. This partnership with NovaAlgoma showcases Wärtsilä’s commitment to sustainability and innovation in the maritime sector.
The government introduced the ‘Jalvahak’ initiative to boost freight movement on national waterways, aiming to reduce road and rail congestion. With up to 35% reimbursement for operational expenses, large shipping corporations can benefit. The program anticipates a modal shift of 800 million tonne-kilometers by 2027, enhancing India’s inland waterway network for efficient and sustainable transportation.
Greenpeace ships are a powerful symbol of strength for supporters worldwide, leading various campaigns and expeditions. The newest addition, Oceania, and the Greenpeace Australia Pacific office have been pivotal in raising awareness in remote locations. From the Arctic to the Amazon coast, the crew’s dedication to environmental activism shines through their actions.
The Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways has approved Rs 50.30 crore for an all-weather ROPAX pier in Odisha under the Sagarmala initiative. The project will reduce travel time, benefitting the local population along the Dhamra River. The Government of Odisha will fund 50% of the project’s cost, creating indirect employment opportunities and boosting commercial activities.
Allcargo Terminals in Kolkata, West Bengal has expanded its CFS capacity to handle over 1,200 TEU of rice monthly, boosting throughput by 25%. Equipped with reach stackers and qualified staff, the facility offers same-day transit-to-port solutions. Plans for a conveyor belt system aim to streamline cargo handling, ensuring efficient operations for customer demands.
The 109th session of the Maritime Safety Committee at IMO Headquarters in London focused on amendments to IGC and IGF Codes, addressing toxic fuel use and ship design safety. Progress was made on a regulatory framework for Maritime Autonomous Surface Ships, with plans for a mandatory MASS Code by 2032.
Denmark recently released anti-whaling activist Paul Watson from detention, rejecting a Japanese extradition request over decade-old charges. Watson, founder of Sea Shepherd, expressed relief and gratitude for the overwhelming support he received. The decision was based on various factors, including the age of the case and uncertainties about potential sentence deductions.
