MHSS Raises Concerns about Indian Seafarers’ Loneliness
German maritime specialist Mental Health Support Solutions (MHSS) has observed an increase in Indian seafarers reaching out for mental health…
German maritime specialist Mental Health Support Solutions (MHSS) has observed an increase in Indian seafarers reaching out for mental health…
In 2019, the captain of the submersible Conception was sentenced to four years in prison for the tragic fire that claimed the lives of 34 people off the California coast. Jerry Nehl Boylan, 69, was found guilty of “sailor manslaughter” for his role in the disaster. The National Transportation Safety Board cited poor oversight by the ship’s owner as a contributing factor to the tragedy.
Muscat: Foreign Minister Sayyid Badr Hamad Al Busaidi met with Luigi Di Maio, EU Special Representative for the Gulf. They discussed bilateral cooperation in maritime security, technical, economic, and cultural fields. They emphasized supporting GCC-EU trade liberalization and mutual visa cancellation. They also addressed the humanitarian crisis in Gaza, advocating for a ceasefire and lifting the blockade.
Kamila Calko is launching SeaLight, an initiative to increase the number of women in the marine industry. With 20 years of experience at sea, including as a captain in the Canadian Coast Guard, Calko believes fostering an inclusive environment is key. SeaLight Sisters, a community app, will provide support for women in the industry.
Four months into the Red Sea diversions, liner shipping has shown improvements in schedule reliability. Sea-Intelligence reports a 1.6% increase in carrier reliability in March 2024, reaching nearly 56%. Carriers have adjusted schedules and brought in new tonnage to absorb disruptions, with late-arriving vessels reducing wait times. Pre-crisis levels are not yet reached.
A study by World Weather Attribution found that the El Niño climate phenomenon, not climate change, caused decreased rainfall in Panama last year. This led to shipping restrictions in the Panama Canal, impacting global trade. Water management, prioritizing human consumption over the canal, also played a role in the restrictions.
A cargo ship named Samuda-1 drifted out of control in Chattogram, Bangladesh, hitting the Kalurghat Railway Bridge. Eyewitnesses reported strong winds as the ship floated from a nearby shipyard. Officials are investigating if the ship broke away from its moorings or if it was a helmsman error. Salvage efforts are underway.
Maryland’s governor announced progress in clearing the shipping channel at Baltimore’s Key Bridge after the container ship Dali struck a pier, causing its collapse. Salvage efforts have removed over 3,300 tons of steel, with the goal of freeing the trapped vessel by May 10. Reconstruction funding is sought for the Key Bridge.
The deputy director of Iran’s Ports and Maritime Organization confirmed the crew of the seized Portuguese-flagged container ship MSC Aries is in good health. The Revolutionary Guard intercepted the ship in the Strait of Hormuz, linked to an Israeli-owned company. Consular access has been granted, and the crew is expected to be released soon.
The Women in Maritime group is advocating for gender equality policies in the industry, particularly for female seafarers. Captain Tarisi Vasuca emphasizes the importance of preparing female students for workplace challenges, such as sharing accommodations with male colleagues. MSAF Board Acting Director Savenaca Cavalevu supports professional development for women in maritime.
Details of the attack on the MSC Orion (158,000) were confirmed by maritime security forces, indicating a troubling extension of the Houthi’s drone range. The vessel, 300-400 nautical miles from Yemen, reported an explosion from a “Uncrewed Aerial System.” Experts believe Iran-made drones are being used, posing new challenges for shipping routes.
The International Convention for the Safety of Life at Sea (SOLAS) is a crucial part of maritime safety legislation, established after the tragic loss of the RMS Titanic. With ongoing revisions to keep up with industry advancements, SOLAS sets international standards for ship safety, benefiting companies by reducing accidents and enhancing reputation. Future challenges include managing automation, cybersecurity, and environmental concerns.
The latest Seafarers Happiness Index (SHI) report shows a positive start to 2024, with an overall increase in happiness from 6.36 to 6.94 out of 10. Seafarers reported improvements in financial security, job satisfaction, crew relationships, connectivity, and training. However, challenges like work-life balance and discriminatory practices still persist.
Iranian officials have pledged to release the crew from the seized MSC Aries on humanitarian grounds in an effort to…
French sail shipping company TOWT announced ambitious plans for carbon-free cargo shipping, with strong demand and support from investors for six additional vessels. The vessels, each 1,000 tons, will carry up to 1,100 tons of cargo. TOWT aims for 500 ships by 2050, reducing carbon emissions by 95% compared to conventional ships.