The Greek-flagged oil tanker Sounion was attacked in the Red Sea, causing a fire and loss of power. Two small boats targeted the vessel, hitting it with projectiles and disabling its engine. Despite a brief exchange of fire, the crew escaped unharmed. Similar attacks are believed to be linked to the conflict between Israel and Hamas, leading to disruptions in international shipping routes.
Mitsui OSK Lines, Ltd. and Vale International SA have completed the retrofit of a 200,000 ton class bulk carrier with Norsepower Rotor Sails, reducing fuel consumption and emissions. This innovative technology utilizes the Magnus effect to generate thrust, aligning with MOL’s goal of achieving net-zero emissions by 2050 and Vale’s commitment to reducing Scope 3 emissions.
Four bodies were found in the sunken wreck of a yacht owned by British tech magnate Mike Lynch’s wife. Lynch and his daughter were among the deceased. The yacht, carrying 22 people, was hit by a storm off Sicily. Rescuers are struggling to recover the bodies due to challenging conditions. Investigations are ongoing.
Kongsberg Maritime has achieved a significant milestone in ensuring the cyber security of its digital products by completing testing to comply with IACS UR E27 and obtaining DNV Cyber Security Profile 1 certification. This process covers a range of products, including automation, navigation, and Dynamic Positioning systems, with plans to expand further in the future.
Cargo insurer TT Club stresses the significance of proper container stowage and weight distribution to prevent containers from falling overboard in heavy weather conditions. Peregrine Storrs-Fox highlights the importance of sticking to a stowage plan and addressing discrepancies between planned and actual stowage. By analyzing wave conditions and implementing data-driven strategies, the industry can enhance container ship safety and minimize the risk of containers toppling overboard.
Kawasaki Heavy Industries has admitted to falsifying test results for its marine engines to meet standards, joining other Japanese manufacturers in scandal. While safety is assured, NOx emissions calculations may be impacted. Ministry requests investigation. Over 6,200 engines affected. Company vows to address issue and prevent future misconduct.
The NTSB revealed that the pilot of the Marquette Transportation towboat John 3:16 fell asleep during his watch, causing a collision with an industrial cargo pier near Saint Rose, La. The incident, attributed to fatigue, highlighted the importance of mariners getting sufficient rest to avoid performance decrements and ensure safe navigation.
The issue of invasive species in ballast water has been a concern for years. The IMO adopted guidelines in 1991, but treatment systems have since evolved. Compliance with standards remains a challenge, with concerns about bypassing systems. Efforts to develop shoreside treatment systems are underway. Despite the complexities, compliance with standards can reduce the risk of biological invasion.
In the first seven months of 2024, there was a significant increase in the contracting of product tankers larger than 10k DWT, with 194 tankers totaling 13.3m DWT ordered. The order book has rapidly expanded, with Chinese shipyards securing 72% of the orders. However, the industry may face challenges in balancing supply and demand in the near future due to strong market conditions and low recycling rates.
The shortage of firefighting foam chemicals poses a safety risk on 40,000 sea vessels. New regulations will phase out PFOS, a harmful compound. Ship owners must replace foams at first survey after January 1, 2026. VIKING offers services for a smooth transition to safer alternatives, despite logistical challenges. Port state control will enforce compliance strictly.
The National Shipping Company of Saudi Arabia (Bahri) has invested $1 billion in acquiring nine advanced Very Large Crude Carriers (VLCCs) to modernize its fleet and boost competitiveness in the global market. With a focus on eco-friendly practices and cost-efficiency, Bahri aims to enhance its position in the industry while prioritizing sustainability.
Argentine authorities have quarantined a cargo ship on the Parana River near Rosario’s grain port after a crew member showed symptoms of Mpox. The global health emergency declared by the WHO has raised concerns about the spread of the viral infection. Companies are ramping up efforts to combat the outbreak.
The multimillion-dollar yacht Obsession survived Storm Ernesto after running aground on a reef off Culebra, Puerto Rico. Despite sustaining flooding and a potential environmental hazard due to diesel on board, the Coast Guard and Salvor Resolve Marine worked to defuel and remove the yacht. The salvage project aims to prevent further pollution and protect the marine ecosystem.
Nearly five months after the fatal collision of the containership Dali with Baltimore’s Francis Scott Key Bridge, the offloading of the vessel has been completed in Norfolk, Virginia. The vessel arrived in June with 4,800 containers out of its full capacity of 10,000 TEUs. Repairs are underway before it departs for the Far East.[embed]https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=j-pWhdFGXVs[/embed]
Efforts to clean up the oil spill from the grounded MV Ultra Galaxy off South Africa’s coast are being intensified. SAMSA is mobilizing personnel to expedite the oil removal process after recent storms caused the ship to release more oil. Environmental patrols are monitoring the containment and minimizing the environmental impact.
