A search is underway for the crew of a fishing vessel that capsized off Couverden Island, Alaska. The crew of the Wind Walker sent a distress call before losing contact. Despite finding immersion suits and strobe lights, the crew remains missing. The Coast Guard and local vessels are conducting a search in challenging weather conditions.
A.P. Moller – Maersk has christened its new dual-fuel methanol container vessel, A.P. Møller, in honor of founder Arnold Peter Møller. The ship is part of Maersk’s sustainability efforts, with plans for a total of 18 methanol ships by 2025. Møller’s legacy and Maersk’s commitment to decarbonization are at the forefront of this initiative.
The International Association of Classification Societies (IACS) stresses the need to address safety risks in the maritime industry’s shift to alternative fuels. With the release of Revision 5 of UR M10, new safety requirements aim to protect internal combustion engines from crankcase explosions, particularly concerning with gas and low flashpoint fuels.
The Panama Maritime Authority swiftly canceled registration of six Panamanian vessels on the UK Sanctions List. Director General Ramón Franco prioritized the registry’s integrity, already canceling three ships with eight more in process. This proactive approach upholds international standards and demonstrates Panama’s commitment to a reputable maritime registry.
The Port of Antwerp-Bruges has recently added six new energy-efficient tugs to its fleet, including Europe’s first fully-electric RSD tugboat. These tugs, constructed by Damen in Vietnam, were carefully tested before being delivered to Belgium. The electric tugboat, named Volta 1, boasts impressive maneuverability and a bollard pull of 70 tons.
Westinghouse Electric Company and Core Power have joined forces to create floating nuclear power plants with microreactors. These plants will be manufactured centrally and easily transported, offering clean and reliable electricity to remote areas. The innovative design incorporates heat pipe technology for enhanced reliability and efficiency. This partnership aims to revolutionize power generation in various locations.
Transport Canada discovered 40 deficiencies on the Nordic Malmoe, including a sexual harassment complaint towards a female cadet. Nathan Smith intervened after receiving an email before the ship arrived in Vancouver. Safety violations and crew wanting to leave led to the ship’s detention. Seafarers face isolation and mistreatment, highlighting the need for prompt action.
The Colombo West International Project by Adani Port and Special Economic Zone receives continued support from Sri Lanka Ports Authority, with no plans to review the agreement. Adani’s $1 billion investment in the Colombo Terminal is the largest foreign investment in Sri Lanka’s port industry, boosting infrastructure development.
The Indian Coast Guard recently completed the 11th National Maritime Search and Rescue Exercise (SAREX-2024) off the coast of Kochi, showcasing India’s commitment to maritime safety. The event featured workshops, seminars, and live-action sea drills to refine search and rescue protocols. International delegates from 38 countries participated, promoting global maritime partnerships.
A.P. Moller-Maersk aims to increase its use of alternative fuels to 15-20% by 2030, part of its goal to achieve net zero emissions by 2040. The company plans to use biodiesel, green methanol, and bio-methane in its vessels. Maersk is working to establish regulations with the IMO to promote cleaner alternatives in the shipping industry.
A Swedish cargo ship caught fire off the coast of Bornholm in the Baltic Sea, prompting a swift rescue operation. The crew issued a Mayday call, leading to Danish rescue teams responding promptly. The Swedish Maritime Administration’s helicopter rescued all crew members safely. The coordinated efforts of Swedish and Danish teams ensured a successful operation.
The Asian Shipowners Association (ASA) has raised alarms over the increasing detention of seafarers abroad, epitomized by the year-long hostage situation of the Galaxy Leader’s crew. Highlighting cases like prolonged imprisonment without charges, the ASA urges a united effort to protect seafarers’ rights and ensure fair legal treatment globally.
The Maritime Safety Authority of Fiji and Goundar Shipping successfully recovered a stranded ferry near Moala Island. With 245 passengers onboard, emergency response measures were implemented, and the vessel was refloated with minimal damage. Despite past safety concerns, Goundar Shipping remains committed to improving operations and passenger experience. Passengers were safely transferred to continue their journey.
The upcoming Underwater Archaeology Museum in Piraeus, Greece, will be a significant landmark housed in a combination of a 1930s silo and a modern building. With 2,500 artifacts on display from prehistoric times to the Second World War, including a 3D printed ancient trireme, the museum aims to preserve maritime history and attract tourists.
Azolla has released an upgraded version of its CASPER™ platform to help shipowners comply with the upcoming Fuel EU Maritime regulation. The platform, initially developed for EU Emissions Trading System compliance, now offers comprehensive emissions management solutions. Key features include real-time data insights, compliance balance tracking, and strategic partnerships for enhanced compliance capabilities.
