Seafarers are seeking certification in Ghana due to limitations imposed by NIMASA in Nigeria. The Co-founder of MOFN, Emmanuel Jeremiah, urges the agency to remove restrictions on OOW licenses. Nigerian seafarers face challenges securing foreign employment opportunities due to the lack of MoUs with top shipping nations. Ghana offers more advantageous training and employment conditions.
Eleni Antoniadou and Neil Henderson from Gard P&I Club offer solutions for FuelEU Maritime compliance. Renewable Fuels of Non-Biological Origin (RFNBOs) are key for long-term compliance. In the near term, biofuels, wind-assisted propulsion systems, and onshore power supply are viable options. Onboard Carbon Capture may be considered in the future. Read more on Gard’s website.
The UKMTO reported electronic interference on a merchant vessel in the Persian Gulf, a first for the authority. The incident, involving GPS/AIS failure, occurred east of Saudi Arabia. Last year, a warning was issued to ship captains about potential threats. The US Maritime Administration also warned of GPS interference globally.
A maritime convoy carrying undelivered food for Gaza returned to Cyprus after World Central Kitchen aid workers were killed in an Israeli airstrike. The cargo ship, originally carrying 240 tons of food, sailed back to Larnaca, Cyprus, after the deadly attack. The aid operation by WCK was suspended after the killings.
Learn how the International Transport Workers’ Federation (ITF) is addressing the unjust treatment of seafarers in response to maritime incidents and suspected crimes. Criminalization is a major issue affecting seafarers, with many being detained without fair treatment. The ITF has released a guide to educate and support seafarers facing legal challenges. Contact Nautilus for assistance during investigations.
The US may lift the terrorist designation on Yemen’s Houthis if ship attacks cease in the Red Sea, aiming for diplomatic solutions. Talks with Oman and Saudi officials indicate a desire for peace and de-escalation. The Houthis could demonstrate goodwill by releasing a kidnapped crew to restart UN peace talks in Yemen.
Marine engine maker Wartsila is set to deliver its first ammonia-powered engine for a new ship in early 2025, with larger sales expected in the 2030s. As shippers explore alternative fuels to reduce carbon emissions, interest in ammonia engines is on the rise. The company sees green fuels capturing a portion of the global bunkering market by 2030.
A revolutionary wall-climbing robot designed for steel structures has been introduced by MOL, SHI, and MOLSHIP. This robot, tailored for ship inspection and maintenance, passed a demonstration test, earning an Innovation Endorsement Certification from ClassNK. Its agility, imaging capabilities, and precision measurements mark a significant advancement in maritime operations.
The total traffic for the financial year 2023-24 at Jawaharlal Nehru Port Authority (JNPA) reaches 85.82 million tonnes. JNPA achieved a historic milestone with its highest-ever throughput of 6.43 million TEUs, marking a 6.27% increase from the previous year. Chairman Unmesh Sharad Wagh expressed pride in making the port a premier gateway for trade.
Most marine casualties are caused by human error, as shown by insurers’ data. The allision of the towboat Susan K with the Natchez-Vidalia Bridge was a clear example of this. The captain admitted to becoming complacent after 200 trips on the same route, leading to the unfortunate accident.
The Australia Maritime Safety Authority has successfully convicted a ship’s master and shipping company for a ladder failure resulting in pilot injuries. AMSA emphasizes the importance of properly maintaining and rigging pilot ladders to prevent accidents. Neglecting ladder safety can have deadly consequences, as seen in recent incidents.
OASIS Marine in North-East Scotland is at the forefront of decarbonizing vessels with innovative technology. Their Hydrogen Buoy and Power Buoy offer offshore hydrogen bunkering and electric charging, reducing CO2 emissions in the shipping industry. With support from the Scottish Government, Oasis Marine is revolutionizing the maritime energy mix.
The Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) supports the designation of the Red Sea and the Gulf of Aden as high-risk areas and war-like zones by the International Transport Workers Federation (ITF) and International Bargaining Forum (IBF). Guidelines outlined in Department Order 01 (Series of 2024) aim to ensure the safety of seafarers in these regions.
The crew members of the Singapore-flagged ship Dali, stranded after colliding with the Francis Scott Key Bridge in Baltimore, were concerned about public perception. Despite being in good health, they kept quiet as they awaited the outcome of the ongoing investigation, unsure of how they were being portrayed in the world.
Paradip Port Authority (PPA) has achieved record-breaking year-on-year traffic growth of 10.02 million tonnes, surpassing Deendayal Port’s previous records. The port is also becoming a hub for coastal shipping in the country, handling 21,665 rakes, 2,710 ships, and increasing its operating surplus by 16.44 percent.
