Crowley’s new LNG-powered containership, Quetzal, has set sail on its maiden commercial voyage, ushering in a new era in ocean shipping. The vessel can carry up to 1,400 TEUs and runs on cleaner LNG fuel. Designed for efficiency and versatility, these ships promise faster and more frequent services to various destinations.
Svitzer has signed a global EcoTow agreement with Wallenius Wilhelmsen, advancing their decarbonization efforts. The partnership aims to reduce Scope 3 emissions in Svitzer’s global operations, using biofuels in tug jobs in key markets. This collaboration reflects a growing demand for voluntary emissions reduction schemes and sets a positive example for the maritime industry.
The Belize-registered dredger KSE Hitachi has sunk off Tuas, Singapore, with no personnel aboard at the time, ensuring no casualties. The Maritime and Port Authority of Singapore (MPA) is investigating the incident and has issued navigational warnings to nearby vessels. Salvage operations are being planned, with patrol crafts deployed for assistance.
In 2023, South Korea saw a 5.3% increase in maritime accidents, resulting in 164 deaths or missing persons. Collisions were the most common incidents, followed by safety issues, fires, capsizing, and sinking. The government vows to enhance safety measures to prevent future tragedies and protect those at sea, emphasizing the need for stricter regulations.
Leaders in the maritime industry recently gathered at SMW 2025 to discuss the challenges and opportunities in the sector. Jeremy Nixon highlighted political processes and security issues affecting container trade, while Zahid Osman emphasized the impact of conflict on global trade. James Marshall shared optimism about market recovery and the industry’s strategies for decarbonization.
Experts have raised concerns about the $5.4 trillion global maritime industry’s susceptibility to cyber threats. In response, the US Coast Guard introduced a regulation aimed at bolstering cybersecurity for US-flagged vessels and facilities. Effective July 16, 2025, it mandates cybersecurity plans and incident reporting to protect critical maritime infrastructure.
The IMO’s MEPC83 has approved the establishment of the largest Emission Control Area (ECA) in the world in the North-East Atlantic Ocean. Research by the ICCT and Porto University showed the benefits of reducing emissions. The new ECA will connect existing ones, leading to significant decreases in harmful pollutants and health-related costs.
Bound4blue has successfully installed the world’s largest suction sails on the MV Atlantic Orchard, a specialized juice carrier chartered by Louis Dreyfus Company (LDC) and owned by Wisby Tankers AB. The four 26-meter high eSAILs® were fitted during the vessel’s 10-year survey at Astander Shipyard in Spain, ensuring optimal efficiency.
The IMO Net-zero Framework, established at MEPC 83, is a revolutionary initiative for the shipping industry. It includes emissions limits, GHG pricing, a new fuel standard, and a global pricing mechanism. Despite challenges, industry leaders recognize its importance for decarbonization efforts. Stakeholders have expressed mixed views on the framework.
European wind developers are urging governments to protect the industry, facing challenges in competitiveness and security. The EU aims for wind to contribute 35% of electricity by 2035, leading countries to expand renewable energy, particularly offshore wind. Developers want at least 100GW worth of CfDs auctioned over ten years to address issues.
The UK Department for Transport has launched a Maritime Decarbonisation Strategy to cut greenhouse gas emissions in domestic maritime transport. The goal is zero fuel lifecycle GHG emissions by 2050, with interim targets of 30% reduction by 2030 and 80% reduction by 2040. The strategy focuses on smaller vessels below 400GT with clear pathways to decarbonisation.
The Royal Niestern Sander shipyard in the Netherlands ordered 2 MAN 16V175D MEM engines for the ‘Easymax 5’ vessel for Wagenborg Operator. The engines will serve as gensets for power generation on the CO2 carrier, set to be chartered by Ineos, Denmark. The vessel will transport CO2 for storage in the Danish North Sea.
According to the Maeil Business Newspaper, Jeju and North Gyeongsang are identified as the regions in South Korea with the highest incidence of maritime accidents in 2024. The increase in accidents calls for improved safety measures and cooperation among authorities to address the root causes and enhance maritime safety in these areas.
The Philippine Coast Guard swiftly responded to a fire aboard the Roro Master 2 at the port of Abra de Ilog. With passengers and trucks on board, the crew managed to control the fire near the fantail. No injuries were reported, emphasizing the importance of collaboration and preparedness in maritime incidents.
Thierry Birles, a maritime law expert, is advocating for sustainable cultural tourism by preserving maritime traditions. He believes that traditional maritime skills can drive economic growth in coastal communities. Birles’ initiative aims to create partnerships to showcase maritime practices, address challenges like climate change, and integrate cultural preservation with economic development for a sustainable future.
