Wärtsilä has introduced its advanced 4-stroke ammonia engine, achieving a 90% reduction in greenhouse gas emissions compared to diesel engines. This engine, part of the Wärtsilä 25 platform, utilizes a low-pressure Otto cycle design, ensuring safety and efficiency. Initial deliveries are expected by 2026, supporting the shipping industry’s decarbonization efforts.
A fishing vessel sank off Drogheda, Co Louth, early this morning, triggering a rapid rescue by the Irish Coast Guard helicopter R116. After detecting an EPIRB signal, the crew located two individuals in the water using advanced night vision technology. Both were rescued and transferred to medical care, emphasizing the operation’s success.
A month after announcing their merger plans, the Saverys family confirmed Golden Ocean’s integration into CMB.TECH, forming a major maritime group valued at approximately $1.4 billion. Shareholders will receive shares in the new entity, which aims to enhance resilience and leadership in decarbonization efforts, despite recent financial challenges.
LALIZAS is expanding in the Americas, having acquired Brazil’s leading lifejacket manufacturer, ATIVA NÁUTICA. Founded in 1998, ATIVA has grown significantly under Marta Lara and Roberto Sampaio. This acquisition reinforces LALIZAS’ commitment to nurturing small businesses while enhancing the nautical industry and setting new safety standards across continents.
Kongsberg Discovery has unveiled the FS80 Trawl Sonar, a revolutionary system that enhances pelagic trawling by integrating net monitoring, intake profiling, and bottom detection in a compact design. Showcased at the Pacific Marine Expo, this advanced technology aims to improve operational efficiency for fishery operators, promoting sustainable fishing practices.
To enhance intra-African cooperation, the National Insurance Commission (NAICOM) has partnered with Ghana’s insurance regulatory authority. This collaboration aims to improve marine insurance practices in West Africa through knowledge sharing and regulatory harmonization, fostering local marine insurance coverage in Ghana and strengthening ties for a unified market attractive to global reinsurers.
The Solent’s maritime sector is gaining national acclaim, with local businesses nominated in seven of eleven categories for the Maritime UK Awards, scheduled for June 26 in Dover. Notable nominees include Carisbrooke Shipping Ltd and Carnival UK. Chair Anne-Marie Mountifield praised the region’s collaboration and innovation, highlighting its maritime leadership.
The Dutch Safety Board has urged major reforms in maritime emergency response systems after investigating the 2023 fire on the Fremantle Highway. The review revealed inadequate training and poor agency coordination, leading to delayed responses and injuries. The report calls for improved communication and a dedicated director to oversee emergency efforts.
Shipping is at a crucial juncture, poised for digital transformation through AI and predictive analytics. However, challenges like data fragmentation and resistance to transparency persist. To enhance operational efficiency and drive revenue, stakeholders must prioritize data consolidation and embrace advanced technologies, ensuring adaptability in an evolving maritime landscape.
The grounding of the bulk carrier Ali Aykin in the Øresund has proven more serious than initially believed, with confirmed hull damage and water ingress. While no injuries or spills have been reported, the vessel carries 18,000 gallons of diesel, prompting authorities to monitor for pollution risks as investigations continue.
The maritime sector is poised for a digital transformation with SATMAR, a 6U nanosatellite launching on June 21 via SpaceX. Developed by Alen Space, this initiative aims to validate the VHF Data Exchange System (VDES), enhancing data transfer efficiency and maritime safety while replacing the current Automatic Identification System (AIS).
A new EU agreement has expanded the European Maritime Safety Agency’s (EMSA) role to enhance maritime security, addressing cybersecurity, the green transition, and emerging threats. EMSA will support EU member states in cyber defense, pollution response, and surveillance, adapting to modern challenges while ensuring effective resource management for its expanded responsibilities.
On May 26, Pacific Carriers Limited (PCL) and the Singapore Maritime Foundation (SMF) signed a Memorandum of Understanding to enhance talent development in the maritime industry. From 2025 to 2027, PCL will sponsor MaritimeONE scholarships and internships, aiming to cultivate a future-ready workforce and support young maritime professionals.
On May 28, 2025, Marine Rescue NSW units from Greater Sydney joined a multi-agency search for a man missing since 11 a.m. the previous day at Mona Vale Beach. Inspector Courtney Greenslade reported that three units were deployed to assist in the operation, conducting a parallel line search in favorable conditions.
Steve Fisher, former Director of International Business at Rivergate Marina & Shipyard, received the 2025 Marine Industry Champion Award at the Australian Marine Industry Awards Gala on May 20, 2025. Recognized for 42 years of service, he humorously reflected on his career, earning a standing ovation from peers and industry leaders.
