The Marine Mammal Advisory Group is calling on sailors worldwide to participate in a survey documenting collisions between sailing vessels and marine life. These incidents are common in the sailing sector, often involving encounters with whales. By engaging sailors in this survey, the organization aims to identify collision hotspots and gather crucial data to protect marine life.
France’s Mediterranean maritime authority successfully towed the disabled product tanker, Kriti Captain, to Marseille after an engine room fire. The Greek-operated tanker, carrying 25,000 tonnes of diesel fuel, docked in Port-la-Nouvelle for offloading and inspection. No injuries were reported, and the vessel’s safe arrival in Marseille marked a crucial step in the salvage operation.
A coal carrier operated by Japan’s Iino Lines and J-Power completed its first voyage with a rotor sail from Norsepower, showcasing the industry’s commitment to reducing emissions. The rotor sail on the bulker Yodohmie is a pioneering move in utilizing innovative technologies to cut fuel consumption and CO2 emissions.
MAN Energy Solutions achieved a significant milestone with its ME-LGIA engine running on Liquid Gas Injection Ammonia at 100% load during testing. The cautious approach since November 2024 paid off, marking a crucial step in maritime energy transition. Positive emission and performance characteristics were confirmed, with focus now on optimizing performance and emissions for future development.
The Mosel river in western Germany is set to resume cargo shipping this week after repairs to a damaged lock progressed quickly. This river is vital for transporting grains and rapeseed between Germany and France. New lock gates have been installed, with test vessel transits scheduled for Thursday to Friday.
HPC Hamburg Port Consulting has won a contract to oversee the H2-Derivatives@BalticSeaPorts initiative, promoting hydrogen-based fuels in Baltic Sea ports. With 15 partners from seven countries, the project aims to accelerate the adoption of green energy in maritime transport. This collaborative effort is crucial for reducing CO2 emissions and shaping a sustainable future for the industry.
In 2024, maritime shipping in Rotterdam saw a slight decrease in fuel bunkering compared to the previous year, with a 0.9 percent drop in demand for fuel oil and marine gas oil. However, there was a significant 52 percent increase in LNG demand, along with a surge in bio-methanol bunkering.
A national workshop in Manila from 27-31 January aims to enhance understanding of IMO liability conventions. Hosted by MARINA, the workshop brings together key agencies to improve cost recovery for maritime incidents. Led by experts, sessions focus on practical application and legislative processes, driving progress in implementing IMO instruments in the Philippines.
The updated guidelines for ship operators include new ballast water record books and a Ballast Water Reporting Form for vessels entering ports. While tank-by-tank logs are recommended, they are not mandatory. Some stakeholders support the changes for sustainability, but others worry about administrative burdens and inspection delays. The technical assistance for new protocols is available.
The world’s first multi-purpose vessel, Prima Verde, has been delivered with the ability to run on marine gas oil (MGO) and wind-assisted propulsion simultaneously. Equipped with environmentally friendly features like green steel materials and a wind-assisted propulsion system, the vessel aims to reduce CO2 emissions and promote sustainability in the maritime industry.
The Neoliner Origin, a wind-powered Ro-Ro vessel, has reached a significant milestone as the hull is floated by Turkish shipbuilder RMK Marine. With a unique design aimed at utilizing wind power, the vessel is set to revolutionize maritime transportation with a target maiden voyage in July 2025 from France to Maryland.
The Damen Maaskant shipyard in Stellendam is renowned for converting icebreakers into expedition yachts. Eric Moerkerk, the Managing Director, has led the shipyard to significant growth through innovative project control strategies. With revenue tripling to €100 million and the workforce doubling, the shipyard’s reputation for new vessel construction and yacht conversion continues to grow.
The second day of the Passenger Vessel Association’s 2025 Maritrends conference showcased the impressive new Artemis Technologies EF-12 Escape water taxi. With zero emissions and minimal wake, the high-speed vessel wowed attendees with its advanced hydrofoil technology. Artemis co-founder David Tyler highlighted the vessel’s design features, emphasizing its stability and efficiency.
Shipping companies navigating the Baltic Sea may soon face a new fee to protect critical undersea cables, proposed by Estonia’s defense minister. NATO plans to deploy frigates, patrol aircraft, and drones to address cable damage incidents. The initiative aims to enhance security measures to prevent future disruptions and ensure maritime safety in the region.
The chief engineer of a Chinese-owned ship was sentenced to prison after admitting to breaking environmental laws by concealing the illegal discharge of oily waste. Feu Wang, 38, was given a three-month prison term and fee of $200. The US Coast Guard led the investigation, uncovering fraudulent log entries and improper disposal practices.
