Samsung Heavy Industries has secured a $226 million contract to build two very large gas carriers for a Bermuda-based client. Finalized on September 29, the project will run until February 28, 2030, with payments tied to construction milestones. This order represents about 2.9% of the company’s projected 2025 revenue.
Interferry will celebrate its 50th anniversary in Bangkok, highlighting its growth and addressing current challenges in the ferry industry. CEO Mike Corrigan emphasizes the importance of tackling regulatory and operational issues, particularly electrification and workforce engagement, while recognizing the ferry sector’s vital role in global transportation infrastructure.
The situation in the Strait of Hormuz is deteriorating, highlighted by delayed reports of a vessel struck by a projectile. UK Maritime Trade Operations indicated the incident as “suspicious activity,” amidst unverified claims by Iran of targeting multiple vessels. This fragmentation complicates monitoring and creates challenges for shipping operations.
A.P. Moller-Maersk has achieved a significant milestone by bunkering its Tangier Maersk containership with 100% U.S.-produced corn ethanol in Houston. This marks the first ship-to-ship commercial ethanol bunkering for deep-sea vessels in the U.S., highlighting the company’s exploration of diverse alternative fuels for its fleet.
The MSC Hermes III faced a crisis after a crew member suffered a severe head injury, prompting an emergency evacuation by Vietnamese authorities on September 29. The ship, previously towed after drifting, raised concerns about potential toxic gas exposure. The remaining crew members were rescued by another vessel.
Japan is nearing the completion of its first Arctic research vessel, Mirai II, equipped with full icebreaking capabilities. Set for delivery this year and its first expedition in 2027, the vessel will enhance scientific research in the Arctic, focusing on vital environmental observations amid climate change challenges.
The VLCC market has experienced a paradigm shift, where older vessels are selling for prices surpassing those of newbuilds. Demand and geopolitical factors have driven valuations sharply upward, with five-year-old ships increasing from $145 million to $172 million. This trend underscores the growing preference for immediate vessel availability amidst rising earnings.
Puntland security forces have successfully rescued the MT Honour 25, a petroleum tanker hijacked by pirates in April. The operation resulted in the capture of the pirates, who will face legal action. This incident highlights the resurgence of piracy off Somalia’s coast, raising concerns over shipping safety in the region.
RINA has bolstered its Singapore Open Innovation Hub with support from the Singapore Economic Development Board, aiming to accelerate innovation in maritime and energy sectors. The initiative focuses on digital twin technologies, decarbonization solutions, and AI-driven platforms, fostering collaboration among industry stakeholders to address critical challenges and drive sustainable advancements.
A fire erupted on a vessel in the Strait of Hormuz after being struck by an unidentified projectile, as reported by the UK Maritime Trade Operations agency. The fire has since been extinguished, and all crew members are safe. No environmental damage has been reported amid rising tensions between Iran and the U.S.
Saudi Arabia has resumed oil tanker loadings at Yanbu port following the East-West Pipeline’s restart, boosting Middle Eastern oil export prospects. Loadings were halted after a drone attack earlier this month. Operations are gradually increasing, with current throughput at 2 million barrels per day and expected to rise soon.
The Dutch Safety Board has launched an investigation into the tragic death of a crew member aboard a Dutch merchant vessel in the English Channel on September 11, 2026. The individual was found in the lower cargo hold after being reported missing, prompting a thorough inquiry to determine the incident’s circumstances and contributing factors.
Lloyd’s Register and Jurong Port have updated the Best Practice Guidelines for stowage and securing of steel and general cargoes, emphasizing personnel safety. The guidelines aim to reduce cargo damage and enhance efficiency during port operations, addressing persistent issues despite technological advancements. They offer actionable recommendations for stakeholders in cargo handling.
Spliethoff Group has inaugurated a cutting-edge training simulator at its Amsterdam headquarters, developed with MARIN. This facility enables seafarers to practice complex cargo and heavy-lift operations in a realistic environment. The simulator enhances crew readiness by replicating real-world conditions, reinforcing Spliethoff’s commitment to safety and operational excellence in maritime operations.
Bernhard Schulte Shipmanagement (BSM) has acquired a 50% stake in Norwegian firm OffshoreCrew, enhancing its offshore recruitment services. This partnership aims to broaden BSM’s crewing capabilities, leveraging OffshoreCrew’s expertise and database of 30,000 professionals to provide specialized personnel across various offshore sectors, including oil and gas and offshore wind.
