A fire on the Stena Immaculate oil tanker in the North Sea has been greatly reduced, with salvage operations beginning. The incident occurred when the container ship Solong struck the tanker. Crowley is working with U.K. agencies to support response efforts and mitigate environmental impact. Boskalis has been tasked with salvaging the tanker.
Global chemical tanker operator Odfjell is now using wind-assisted propulsion to reduce emissions. Their first sail installation on the Bow Olympus in Antwerp is being closely monitored for its impact on operations. VP Technology Erik Hjortland stressed the importance of real-time analysis. Odfjell plans to install more sails after validating results.
Lloyd’s Register in the UK is using generative AI with Microsoft Azure OpenAI Service to streamline nuclear technology regulations in maritime applications. By leveraging historical data and refining permitting documents efficiently, LR aims to expedite regulatory compliance. This collaboration with Microsoft aims to transform regulations into launchpads for innovation in the maritime industry.
The hull for Bernhard Schulte (BS) Offshore’s new Commissioning Service Operation Vessel (CSOV) has arrived at Ulstein Verft’s shipyard, marking a significant milestone in the shipbuilding process. Designed for ‘walk-to-work’ (W2W) operations, the vessel is a product of collaboration between Ulstein Design & Solutions and various Ulstein companies in Norway and Poland.
The upcoming WISTA International Board meeting in India highlights the organization’s commitment to diversity, inclusion, and leadership in the maritime industry. The conference will focus on sustainable shipping practices, showcasing women’s significant role in shaping the future of the industry. Stakeholders will explore innovative strategies to promote environmental sustainability and build a more inclusive industry.
ABS has issued guidance on the recent amendments to the International Code for the Safe Carriage of Grain in Bulk, known as the Grain Code, effective from January 1, 2026. These changes address loading conditions for grain transportation, including “specially suitable compartments.” The new loading condition aims to ensure ship stability during grain transport.
The crime wave around the Singapore Strait persists in 2025, with a notable increase in robberies and violence. Seafarers face greater risks as armed boarders strike vessels, prompting security consultant Ambrey to advise crews to secure their ships and avoid direct confrontations. ReCAAP reports 26 incidents in Southeast Asia this year.
A maritime accident involving the U.S.-flagged chemical tanker Stena Immaculate and the Portuguese-flagged container vessel Solong off the coast of Britain has raised concerns. The collision, on March 10, 2025, caused significant damage and both ships were still burning the next day. Investigators are looking into the cause, with one sailor suspected to be deceased.
South Korean shipbuilder HD Hyundai Heavy Industries (HD HHI) is leading a project to recycle evaporated gas emitted during the construction of liquefied natural gas-powered ships into city gas. The initiative aims to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and is part of a national task established by the South Korean Ministry.
Norwegian maritime technology company Pherousa has achieved approvals from ABS and DNV for its ammonia cracking technology on ships, paving the way for fossil-free and zero-emission propulsion in the maritime sector. This innovative solution, including PEM Fuel Cells and FGSS, will be crucial in reducing carbon footprint and enabling emission-free transportation of essential commodities.
A collision between the US-flagged oil tanker, Stena Immaculate, and Portuguese-registered container ship, Solong, in the North Sea led to a ruptured cargo tank and explosions. Jet-A1 fuel spilled, causing fires and emitting black smoke. The incident threatens marine life, fishing, and coastal communities. Cleanup efforts involve various methods to contain and recover spilled oil.
The International Oil Pollution Compensation Funds (IOPC Funds) recently addressed the collision between the Solong and Stena Immaculate in the UK. The incident, involving a tanker carrying jet fuel, is not covered by the 1992 Conventions. The IOPC Funds cannot intervene due to the non-persistent oil classification.
The Maritime Technologies Forum (MTF) has released a detailed report on the safe transportation of electric vehicles (EVs) on PCTC vessels. Titled “Safe Carriage of Electric Vehicles,” the report addresses EV fire characteristics and emphasizes early detection, prevention, firefighting, evacuation procedures, and training to enhance safety onboard ships. International regulations for EV transportation are in development.
A whistleblower has raised concerns about the RNLI’s cost-saving measures potentially endangering lives during a recent tanker crash response in the North Sea. Crew shortages led to the delayed deployment of a more suitable ship, leaving volunteers to navigate dangerous conditions in a smaller boat without proper protection from toxic fumes.
A cargo ship collided with an oil tanker carrying jet fuel for the US military off the coast of Hull, England, causing both vessels to catch fire. Video footage showed thick black smoke billowing from the ships. Fortunately, all 37 crew members on board were safe, with one individual hospitalized.
