Barcelona is tackling concerns over overcrowding and overtourism linked to cruise ships by redeveloping its seaport. With a 20% rise in cruise passengers since 2018, Mayor Jaume Collboni proposes limits, including higher tourist taxes. The city plans to reduce cruise terminals from seven to five by 2030, enhancing sustainability.
Photographers have until October 12 to enter the Pantaenius Yacht Racing Image Award 2025. An international jury will select 80 photos for public voting starting October 20. The top 20 will be showcased at Metstrade Amsterdam from November 18-20, with the awards ceremony on November 21 during the Yacht Racing Forum.
Over 140 individuals aboard the Royal Caribbean ship Navigator of the Seas fell ill during a cruise from Los Angeles to Mexico, as reported by the CDC. Symptoms included diarrhea and vomiting. In response, Royal Caribbean intensified cleaning and isolated affected passengers while the CDC investigates the outbreak’s cause.
Two prominent Asian cities are enhancing their maritime heritage with new attractions. Osaka will unveil the Mitsui OSK Lines’s Funeshiru Museum, featuring interactive displays and a world-first navigation simulator. Meanwhile, Hong Kong’s Jockey Club Anchor Plaza showcases a massive anchor from the Seawise Giant, fostering maritime education and community engagement.
In 2025, over 2,280 seafarers were abandoned on 222 vessels, reflecting a 30% rise from the previous year. The International Transport Workers’ Federation reported $13.1 million in unpaid wages, highlighting severe human rights violations. The Gulf states and Europe face criticism for their inaction, as nearly 75% of abandoned vessels are registered under Flags of Convenience.
The Akademi Laut Malaysia has launched the Maritime Experiential Learning Centre, the first MASTER Centre in the Asia Pacific. Endorsed by Wärtsilä, it features advanced simulators for real-world vessel operations. This initiative, part of Malaysia Maritime Week 2025, aims to equip future seafarers with essential skills in decarbonisation and smart navigation.
Mitsui O.S.K. Lines (MOL) is partnering with Innovative Space Carrier and Tsuneishi Solutions TokyoBay to develop an offshore rocket launch and recovery vessel. This initiative, part of MOL’s ‘MOL Incubation Bridge’ program, aims for commercialization by 2030, enhancing rocket launch frequency and contributing to next-generation space transport infrastructure.
The maritime industry is embracing digitalization, driven by data demand. Companies can leverage NexusWave for high-speed connectivity, unlimited data, and secure infrastructure, enhancing operational efficiency. This service supports AI and data analytics, ensuring seamless communication and improving crew morale, while prioritizing cybersecurity and future-ready bandwidth solutions.
In 2025, over 2,280 seafarers were abandoned on 222 vessels, a 30% rise from the previous year, according to the ITF. Facing dire conditions, they lack pay, food, and medical aid, with unpaid wages reaching $13.1 million. The situation is particularly severe in the Arab World and Europe.
Recent developments in seafarer employment include a new global minimum wage of $690 per month, effective January 1, 2026, endorsed by the International Chamber of Shipping. Additionally, the UK Government’s Employment Rights Bill has been amended to enhance protections for seafarers, particularly regarding collective redundancies and wage standards.
Iranian officials recently seized a foreign oil tanker in the Gulf of Oman, confiscating over 2 million liters of suspected smuggled fuel. The vessel’s 17-member crew, including the captain, has been arrested. The ship’s identity is undisclosed, as authorities conduct tests to confirm the fuel’s type and legality.
The Maharashtra Maritime Summit 2025, hosted by Times Network, showcased Maharashtra’s maritime vision, emphasizing sustainable port-led development. Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis championed public-private partnerships and smart technology to enhance efficiency. With initiatives like the Vadhavan Port revival, the summit highlighted the state’s commitment to becoming a key player in India’s maritime landscape.
India’s Directorate General Shipping (DGS) achieved full compliance with the STCW Convention, confirming high standards in seafarer training and certification. The evaluation highlighted best practices, including a Comprehensive Inspection Program and modern training tools. Recommendations focused on standardizing examiner records and enhancing faculty development, underscoring India’s maritime commitment.
The Indian government’s Carbon Credit Trading Scheme (CCTS) targets greenhouse gas emissions in eight energy-intensive sectors. Implemented under the 2023 Energy Conservation Act, it incentivizes organizations that exceed emissions benchmarks with marketable credits. However, its modest 1.68% reduction goal raises concerns about alignment with India’s broader climate commitments.
The Japan Coast Guard ship Itsukushima, under Captain Naoki Mizoguchi, docked at Chennai Port on July 7 for its Global Ocean Voyage Training. This visit highlights the strengthening partnership between the Indian Coast Guard and JCG, featuring bilateral meetings, cultural exchanges, and a joint sea exercise named ‘Jaa Mata’ on July 12.
