On October 4, 2024, Spanish and French security forces seized 4 tons of cocaine from a Tanzanian-flagged vessel near the Canary Islands. The operation, named ‘Pascal-Lino 2024,’ led to the arrest of all ten crew members. The vessel’s suspicious activities and route indicated involvement in international drug trafficking, highlighting the challenges faced by authorities.
A European consortium of eleven partners has launched the MARPOWER project to decarbonize maritime transport by replacing fossil fuels with sustainable alternatives like green methanol, hydrogen, and ammonia. With nearly €8 million in funding from the EU, the project aims to develop an efficient zero-emissions gas turbine power system for ships.
The Lloyd’s Register Fuel Quality Report 2024 reveals ongoing concerns in the maritime industry regarding fuel quality, with issues like cat-fines, stability, sulphur content, and flash point still posing challenges. The report also highlights the increasing adoption of biofuels by ship operators and the implications of the newly implemented ISO8217:2024 standard.
After four years since its bankruptcy, Norway’s Kleven shipyard, now known as Green Yard Kleven, is back in the shipbuilding industry. Securing a contract for a Field Support Vessel for the Neptun Deep project in the Black Sea, the company is reentering the new construction market with innovative and sustainable solutions.
Houthi militants have stepped up attacks on merchant ships, focusing on tankers and vessels linked to Israel. The product tanker Olympic Spirit was hit in the Red Sea, with minor damage reported. The militants claimed responsibility for the attack and threatened more strikes on ships associated with Israel, America, and Britain.
DNV has granted Approval in Principle to Hydrogenious LOHC Maritime for their LOHC Release Unit in the HyNjord project, aiming to create zero-emission power for ships using hydrogen from the LOHC power system. Supported by Enova SF, Østensjø Rederi, and Equinor, the project will be demonstrated onboard the vessel “Edda Ferd”.
A Liberia-flagged tanker was struck by an unidentified projectile in the Red Sea, sustaining minor damage but no casualties. The incident occurred near the Yemeni port of Hodeidah. The vessel, en route from Jeddah to Muscat, was targeted by Houthi fighters. Despite the attack, the crew is safe and the tanker is continuing its journey.
Hyundai Heavy Industries has achieved a major breakthrough in developing ammonia-fueled engines with a unique high-pressure injection method. The engine has passed model testing and is ready for commercialization, featuring a high-pressure direct injection method. This advancement aligns with the industry’s shift towards eco-friendly fuels, with other companies also making strides in ammonia technology.
An engineering study examined carbon capture technology on vessels. Despite high costs, it could extend economic life and cut CO2 emissions with a small fuel penalty. Retrofitting a tanker showed potential for a 20% reduction in emissions. Further research is needed to make this technology feasible for the maritime industry.
Norway’s METCentre, a leading test center, has secured contracts with three companies to trial cutting-edge floating offshore wind technology, aiming to reduce costs and accelerate progress in renewable energy. METCentre plays a crucial role in the Utsira Nord development, positioning Norway as a frontrunner in floating offshore wind technology globally.
Starting April 1, 2025, marine fuel suppliers in Singapore must offer digital bunkering services and issue electronic bunker delivery notes. This initiative aims to streamline the bunkering process, save 40,000 man-days per year, and reduce fraud risk. Singapore leads the way in digital bunkering, enhancing efficiency and transparency in the industry.
Analysts have observed a sharp rise in containership construction due to demand and fleet modernization. Alphaliner predicts continued growth, with record orders for containerships. Top carriers are investing in new vessels to meet capacity needs and environmental regulations. Fleet renewal and efficiency improvements are driving the surge in orders.
The Maritime and Port Authority of Singapore (MPA) is set to establish new standards for methanol and ammonia bunkering by 2024 and 2025. This move aligns with the goal of reducing carbon emissions in the shipping industry. Safety procedures and crew competencies will be a focus to ensure the safe handling of these fuels.
The Ministry of Internal Affairs of Turkey has pledged cooperation with Spanish and French authorities in investigating a Turkish-owned cargo ship involved in drug smuggling. The vessel, named Ras, was seized 130 miles from Lanzarote with 4,000 kilos of cocaine hidden on board. The interception revealed a sophisticated smuggling operation spanning multiple countries.[embed]https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tp9H6k6jHao[/embed]
Hurricane Milton approached Florida’s Gulf Coast with tornadoes, heavy rain, and strong winds. Evacuation orders were issued for millions along the coastline after Hurricane Helene’s devastation. With sustained winds of 145 mph, Milton weakened slightly to a Category 4. Emergency preparations were underway as FEMA mobilized resources and personnel for recovery efforts.
