A newly updated Rescue Guide, created by UNHCR, IMO, and ICS, provides essential legal guidance for the disembarkation of rescued individuals at sea. It emphasizes timely action and outlines responsibilities for states and maritime actors, aiming to enhance cooperation and uphold human rights for vulnerable populations, particularly refugees and migrants.
Seabourn Venture has made history as the most southerly ship to navigate the Antarctic Peninsula, reaching 70° South and crossing the Antarctic Circle. Celebrating with Champagne on the ice, the crew, led by Captain Simon Bishop, marked a significant milestone in exploration, showcasing Seabourn’s commitment to unique travel experiences.
India’s Union Budget for 2026-27 continues to label major state-owned ports as “trusts,” overlooking reforms from the Major Port Authorities Act of 2021. This act aimed to grant autonomy to ports, replacing the trust model. Despite a 48% funding increase, inconsistencies in terminology and allocations raise concerns about strategic port management.
Circle Digital Ventures has launched CDV Wealth, a revolutionary digital financial platform designed for seafarers. This tool enables secure and straightforward financial management worldwide. Key features include a multi-currency wallet, instant cross-border transfers, and a Visa Platinum debit card. CDV Wealth addresses cash dependence and streamlines payroll for shipowners.
The Fast Patrol Vessel Amulya, measuring 51 meters and displacing 320 tonnes, is powered by dual 3,000 KW diesel engines, achieving speeds of 28 knots. Its advanced propulsion system, featuring indigenously developed Controllable Pitch Propellers, enhances maneuverability, enabling it to perform vital maritime missions, including surveillance and search-and-rescue operations.
The Italian Coast Guard inspected the livestock carrier Blue Ocean A, discovering 54 deficiencies, 30 leading to its detention. Serious issues were noted with firefighting systems and life-saving equipment. The vessel, towed to Cagliari after engine troubles during a storm, is a 34-year-old ship previously converted from a containership.
Recent reports reveal troubling trends in the recruitment of seafarers, many of whom lose contact with their families for extended periods. One case highlighted a seafarer returning home with significant psychological trauma, reflecting a pattern of deceptive recruitment tactics that exploit economic vulnerabilities, emphasizing the urgent need for improved industry oversight and support.
On Monday morning, a merchant tanker rescued three individuals from a distressed sailboat 450 miles east of Daytona Beach, Florida. The Coast Guard received an EPIRB alert and dispatched an HC-130 aircraft. Despite severe conditions, the tanker Radiant Pride successfully evacuated the crew, showcasing the spirit of mutual aid at sea.
VST Tillers Tractors Ltd. has launched its marine propulsion segment, introducing Next-Generation compact Marine Engines at the India Boat and Marine Show. Ranging from 18hp to 28hp, these engines prioritize fuel efficiency and reliability, designed for fishing and coastal sectors, featuring advanced Japanese technology for superior performance.
New Zealand has set a precedent by allocating port fees for seafarer welfare services during visits. Advocate Paul MacGillivary urges Australia to adopt this model to meet Maritime Labour Convention standards. With over 500,000 seafarers docking annually, enhanced funding for welfare services is crucial to support their mental health and well-being.
On February 4, 2026, the Global Centre for Maritime Decarbonisation (GCMD) announced a partnership with CIMAC to enhance the maritime sector’s readiness for alternative fuel adoption. This collaboration aims to address challenges in transitioning to greener fuels, fostering innovation and effective strategies for a sustainable maritime future.
EUCAP Somalia’s Field Office in Puntland has significantly enhanced local law enforcement by donating maritime communication equipment and fingerprint scanners to the Puntland State Police. This initiative aims to improve maritime surveillance and coordination, while the new fingerprint scanners will aid in tackling financial crimes and cross-border illicit activities, strengthening regional security.
The Union Government has made strides in developing a domestic container ecosystem by signing a Memorandum of Understanding for the Bharat Container Shipping Line (BCSL). This initiative, endorsed by Ministers Sarbananda Sonowal and Ashwini Vaishnaw, aims to improve coordination among shipping, ports, and rail logistics, addressing exporters’ challenges.
Andhra Pradesh is progressing towards establishing a shipbuilding and repair cluster, as emphasized in the recent Union Budget. With its extensive coastline and strategic inland waterways, the state aims to enhance India’s maritime ecosystem. A 2,000-acre hub at Duggarajapatnam will attract more units, creating job opportunities for local youth.
The Philippine Coast Guard has located the sunken ferry Trisha Kerstin 3 near Basilan, allowing for potential recovery of human remains and insights into its capsizing. The confirmed death toll has risen to 43, with investigations into the shipowner’s operations and possible unregistered passengers complicating the situation further.
