Mitsubishi Shipbuilding Co., Ltd., alongside Imabari Shipbuilding, “K” LINE, MOL, NYK Line, JMU, and NSY, has signed a Memorandum of Understanding to establish a standard design framework for liquefied CO2 carriers and next-gen alternative fuel vessels. This initiative emphasizes decarbonization technologies, enhancing Japan’s shipbuilding competitiveness globally.
Inmarsat Maritime, a ViaSat subsidiary, has launched the next phase of its NexusWave bonded connectivity service, following the ViaSat-3 Flight 2 satellite’s success. With Flight 3 on the horizon, maritime customers can expect enhanced bandwidth and performance through the new VS60 terminal, designed for high-demand applications and robust security.
In 2024, Italy and Greece led the EU in passenger traffic, with Italian ports handling 93.5 million passengers and Greece 81.1 million. The Mediterranean dominated, housing seven of the ten busiest ports. Notably, Napoli experienced significant growth, increasing its passenger count by 1.7 million since 2019, reflecting a broader recovery.
Spanish maritime authorities have initiated efforts to tow the abandoned coastal freighter Marine I, adrift in the Strait of Gibraltar for ten days. The crew of 17 faces dire conditions, lacking essential supplies. A tugboat has been dispatched to ensure the safety of both the ship and its crew.
A recent ATSB report revealed inadequate safety management during an incident involving the second engineer of the Spirit of Tasmania I. While performing routine maintenance, the engineer fell, sustaining a serious knee injury. The investigation highlighted a lack of defined access routes and insufficient risk assessments, prompting new safety measures by TT-Line.
The UK Marine Accident Investigation Branch (MAIB) reported a cargo fire aboard the bulk carrier Atlay on June 27, 2025, during scrap metal loading at Albert Dock, Hull. Detected by the master, the fire prompted immediate evacuation preparations and firefighting responses. Investigations suggest an undischarged battery may have ignited the blaze.
The NATO Regional Centre, in partnership with the Istanbul Cooperation Initiative, has launched a specialized training course on “Joint Standardized Training in Contemporary Maritime Interdiction Operations.” This five-day program, led by Rear Admiral Pericles Pepis, features 22 trainees from Gulf Cooperation Council countries, focusing on enhancing maritime security skills.
The owners of the containership ONE Henry Hudson declared a General Average after a significant fire incident at the Port of Los Angeles. All crewmembers were safely evacuated, while nearly 200 firefighters managed the blaze. Salvage operations now focus on removing damaged cargo and assessing contaminated firefighting water.
Syria has regained its voting rights at the International Maritime Organization (IMO) after years of suspension. Participating in the Council elections on November 29, Syria’s re-engagement signifies a pivotal moment for its influence in global maritime policies. The IMO Assembly, running from November 24 to December 3, addresses crucial maritime issues.
Nigeria’s recent election to the International Maritime Organisation (IMO) Council represents a pivotal moment for its maritime sector. Securing a seat in Category C for 2026–2027, the nation reaffirms its position as Africa’s largest blue economy. Labor unions and media celebrate this achievement, crediting strategic leadership and inter-ministerial collaboration.
A fishing boat faced fuel issues off Llandudno’s Great Orme, issuing a distress signal at 3:38 PM on Saturday. With three crew members aboard, the vessel alerted HM Coastguard. The Llandudno RNLI and rescue teams responded, ultimately towing the boat to safety in Bangor, ensuring all crew members were unharmed.
India has been re-elected to the International Maritime Organisation (IMO) Council, securing the highest votes in its category during the London Assembly elections for the 2025-26 biennium. With 154 votes, India joins Category B, which includes nations with significant interests in international seaborne trade, enhancing its maritime influence globally.
India is enhancing its global maritime standing by promoting sustainable shipping practices, as highlighted by its recent re-election to the International Maritime Organization (IMO) Council in Category B. With 154 votes, this achievement reflects international trust in India’s leadership and commitment to a secure, environmentally friendly maritime future.
On November 28, Singapore was re-elected to the Council of the International Maritime Organization (IMO) for the 17th consecutive term. Led by Acting Minister for Transport Mr. Jeffrey Siow, the delegation emphasized the importance of collaboration in maritime safety and pollution prevention, reinforcing Singapore’s commitment to global shipping governance since 1993.
Nigeria’s National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) has detained 20 Filipino seafarers following the discovery of 20 kilograms of cocaine concealed in their vessel’s cargo. The crew, aboard the Panama-flagged bulk carrier Nord Bosporus, is reportedly being treated well as investigations continue. Communication with the Philippines’ Department of Migrant Workers is ongoing.
