Woodward, a global leader in fuel injection systems, is showcasing its range of injection systems for P2X fuels like methanol and ammonia at SMM in Hamburg. The Medium Pressure Injection (MPI) and High-Pressure Dual Fuel (HPDF) product lines have been fully integrated into a family design.
Anti-whaling activist Paul Watson is facing extradition to Japan from Greenland, where he was detained in July. His legal team is fighting the extradition, citing concerns about Japan’s justice system. Supporters, including French President Macron, are campaigning for his release. Watson’s fate remains uncertain as he awaits a final decision.
Belgian authorities have introduced a new sensor to improve detection of ships violating emissions regulations in the North Sea. The sensor aims to collect data on pollutants emitted by ships and is part of a program that began in 2021. The authorities are stepping up efforts to enforce emissions regulations and combat climate change.
Viking has ordered two more cruise ships from Fincantieri, bringing the total to 10. The collaboration began in 2012, resulting in the launch of Viking Star in 2015. The new ships will be larger, accommodating 998 passengers. Fincantieri has a busy schedule with orders from various cruise lines, indicating a resurgence in the industry.
Torvald Klaveness of Norway has sold its Ship Management division to OSM Thome to enhance scale and investment in the sector. OSM Thome will operate Klaveness while Torvald Klaveness will manage ship management for Klaveness Combination Carriers. The move aims to modernize operations, support growth, and maintain high standards of safety and efficiency.
The FCCA reported record economic contributions from the 2023-2024 cruise year, with $4.27 billion in direct expenditures across 33 destinations. This marked a 27% increase from 2018, supporting 94,027 jobs and 29.4 million onshore visits. Cruise lines spent $968.3 million, with an average of $29.3 million per destination.
French maritime authorities recovered the bodies of two migrants from the English Channel on Wednesday, bringing the total number of dead and missing in French waters this year to over 50. 46 other individuals were rescued after a failed attempt to cross the dangerous waterway between France and England on an overcrowded inflatable boat.
The last batch of Filipino crew members from the M/V Minoan Courage, attacked by Houthi rebels, safely landed at NAIA Terminal 3. The DMW, OWWA, and other agencies collaborated to ensure the repatriation of all 21 seafarers. The crew will receive necessary support and evaluations to address the traumatic experience at sea.
A recent survey revealed strong support for ammonia as a fuel in the maritime industry. Safety, training, and system design are key concerns, with 58.6% willing to work with ammonia-powered ships. Comprehensive training is crucial for safe usage, as some remain unsure or opposed to its adoption. Further education is needed to address doubts.
Since September 2024, Russian missiles have targeted five merchant ships in Ukrainian ports, posing a threat to 1% of the world’s dry bulk exports. Despite rising war risk insurance prices, the impact on exported volumes has been limited. The coastal corridor has boosted dry bulk shipments, but a decline is expected in 2025.
Mitsui O.S.K. Lines (MOL) has secured a long-term time charter contract with Singapore LNG Corporation for a new FSRU to be built in South Korea and delivered in 2027. This strategic partnership aims to enhance Singapore’s energy supply stability by providing a crucial facility for LNG regasification and gas distribution.
Russia is planning to implement ship-to-ship transfers of LNG and gas condensate in the Barents and Bering Seas to free up ice-class tankers for Novatek. This initiative aims to address vessel shortages in Arctic waters and increase efficiency. Loadings of Russian LNG in EU ports will be prohibited by March 2025.
MAN Engines is proud to launch the MAN D3872 LE427, a powerful engine tailored for heavy-duty workboats. Delivering 1,250 hp (920 kW) at 1,800 rpm, it meets stringent EU Stage V emission standards. Equipped with advanced aftertreatment systems, it’s ideal for diverse applications, reinforcing MAN’s commitment to innovation in maritime solutions.
The Indian Register of Shipping (IRS) and SeaTech Solutions International have signed an MoU to approve designs for green tugs and harbour craft. Indian shipyards may now construct electric-powered tugboats designed by SeaTech, with IRS ensuring compliance with regulatory standards. The collaboration will support India’s green-tug transition programme and Harit Nauka guidelines.
The North Atlantic right whale, a rare species, has seen a slight increase in population, giving hope to conservationists. Threatened by global warming, ship collisions, and fishing gear entanglement, their numbers dropped to less than 360 in the early 2020s. Efforts are needed to ensure their recovery and long-term survival.
