The oil tanker market is grappling with a fierce shortage, leading new vessels, usually designated for refined fuels, to pivot to crude transport. In a stark contrast to 2024, six supertankers made empty maiden voyages to load crude oil this year, driven by soaring demand and shifting shipping dynamics.
On December 11, Ukrainian drones targeted the Filanovsky oil rig in the Caspian Sea, a significant escalation in disrupting Russian energy production. The strikes halted operations at over 20 wells, impacting Russia’s oil output. This offensive underscores Ukraine’s intensified campaign against Russian oil facilities to weaken Moscow’s military finances.
The BIMCO Documentary Committee has introduced new clauses for Memoranda of Agreements (MoAs) regarding ship sales, addressing the complexities of the FuelEU Maritime Regulation and EU Emissions Trading System. These clauses clarify responsibilities, costs, and data-sharing obligations, ensuring both buyers and sellers navigate evolving maritime regulations effectively.
On Thursday morning, the ferry Ternen in Norway overshot its berth, colliding with a historic building on Herfol Island. The incident, occurring around 9:30 AM, temporarily halted ferry services. Fortunately, the six passengers were unharmed. Witnesses suggested a technical issue may have contributed to the mishap.
Two prominent Japanese shipping companies, NYK and MOL, have settled a long-standing UK case accusing them of colluding to fix vehicle shipping prices. The settlement, worth £54 million, addresses allegations of coordinated rate manipulation affecting 17 million vehicles. This landmark decision allows consumers to recover losses from cartel activities.
A fully loaded Very Large Crude Carrier (VLCC) faced severe weather damage near Ile d’Ouessant, France, with winds over 60 knots and waves exceeding 10 meters. The incident highlighted inadequate planning, leading to the loss of critical safety equipment. Key lessons stress the importance of weather monitoring and prioritizing safety.
The European Commission has launched an investigation into Terminal Investment Limited Holding’s proposed joint control of Terminal Catalunya with Hutchison Ports. Concerns have been raised about potential price increases and reduced service quality at the key Barcelona container terminal, which may hinder competition and impact shipping costs.
The United Nations has launched the first-ever Decade of Sustainable Transport (2026–2035) in New York, emphasizing collaboration among governments, industry, and academia. The initiative aims to enhance cleaner mobility and access to essential services, with 83 global commitments supporting clean transport and significant investments in renewable fuels to reduce emissions.
Danish shipping leader Maersk is expanding its low-emission fuel options by testing ethanol alongside methanol in its dual-fuel fleet. Initial trials on the container vessel Laura Mærsk showed promising results with a 10% ethanol blend, leading to plans for further tests, including a 50/50 ethanol-methanol mixture. This initiative supports Maersk’s goal of achieving net-zero emissions by 2040.
Ukraine has intensified its maritime offensive, launching a third sea drone attack on the Comoros-flagged Dashan in the Black Sea. This strike targets Russia’s oil trade amid rising tensions, while the Ukrainian Security Service confirmed two previous attacks on other tankers, indicating a coordinated strategy amid ongoing sanctions.
Mintra, a leader in digital learning for the maritime and energy sectors, has acquired SQLearn, a top Greek provider of online maritime training. This acquisition enhances Mintra’s commitment to digital transformation in Greece, combining its global reach with SQLearn’s local expertise to improve operational efficiency and compliance for shipping companies.
EVE Energy and Green Whale Technology (GWT) have partnered to advance marine electrification with innovative Battery Energy Storage Solutions (BESS). This collaboration combines EVE’s lithium marine battery technology with GWT’s marine engineering expertise, offering systems that last up to 15 years, outperforming traditional LFP systems and reducing ownership costs.
ABB has achieved a breakthrough in Dynamic Positioning (DP) technology after successful trials on the WTIV Norse Wind. The new DP2 system integrates ABB Ability Marine Pilot Control with Azipod propulsion, enhancing vessel safety and operational decision-making. This innovation will also be applied to the sister ship Norse Energi, launching in 2026.
Japan’s NYK has commissioned a next-generation car carrier from Shinkai Toyohashi Shipbuilding, set for delivery on March 31, 2026. Measuring 199.95 meters long and 38 meters wide, the vessel will feature advanced digital systems for enhanced navigational safety, reduced crew workload, and improved operational efficiency, including autonomous navigation capabilities.
Everllence has successfully tested its 21/31 dual-fuel engine on ethanol in Frederikshavn, Denmark, showcasing reliable performance. This achievement underscores the engine’s potential with alternative fuels, driven by growing market interest in ethanol. The recent tests provide valuable insights, reinforcing confidence in the engine’s ability to operate efficiently on ethanol.
