Lloyd’s Register has granted Approval in Principle to HD Hyundai Heavy Industries for its next-generation LNG carrier design. This innovative vessel features a forward accommodation layout and an integrated Wind Challenger, enhancing propulsion efficiency and allowing for future integration of alternative fuels and battery storage to meet evolving regulations.
The 14th edition of INMEX SMM India commenced at the Bombay Exhibition Centre in Mumbai from September 10 to 12, 2025. Inaugurated by Minister Nitesh Rane, the event gathered global maritime experts to explore innovations and policies, with Maharashtra aiming to enhance its role as a leading maritime hub through strategic investments and policies.
Fisheries and Ports Minister Nitesh Rane has directed officials to establish a single-window system for project approvals under the Maharashtra Maritime Board. This initiative aims to simplify the current process, which involves multiple departmental clearances. Rane also emphasized finalizing rental rates for stalls and expediting hoarding installations by November.
The Principal District and Sessions Court in Navsari sentenced Dineshbhai Babubhai Ganvit, a junior clerk at the Gujarat Maritime Board, to three years of rigorous imprisonment and a ₹10,000 fine for bribery. The case stemmed from Ganvit’s demand for a ₹5,000 bribe to issue a fishing permit, leading to his arrest.
Inmarsat Maritime, a Viasat company, has partnered with Station Satcom to implement NexusWave on a bulk carrier managed by Norse Ship Management. This initiative enhances crew and business connectivity, aligning with digitalization goals by providing seamless data exchange and real-time monitoring, ensuring reliable internet experiences comparable to land.
Pooling may seem like a simple solution for complying with FuelEU Maritime regulations, but it can lead to financial challenges for shipowners. A new whitepaper from ZERO44 highlights that while pooling offsets emissions, it often involves costly investments in cleaner technologies. Alternative strategies could prove more cost-effective for compliance.
At Gastech 2025 in Milan, HD Korea Shipbuilding & Offshore Engineering and HD Hyundai Heavy Industries received approval in principle from ABS for their innovative 16,000 TEU container ship featuring electric propulsion. This milestone underscores the collaboration aimed at enhancing eco-friendly maritime technologies, aligning with the IMO’s 2050 carbon-neutral goals.
Eastern Pacific Shipping (EPS) has received the new eco-friendly very large gas carrier, Rosablanche, from Samsung Heavy Industries. This addition enhances EPS’s dual-fuel fleet, featuring advanced cargo handling and fuel systems. EPS is also expanding into the ethane sector, with plans for six new carriers anticipated by 2027.
India’s cruise tourism is evolving from luxury to accessibility, appealing to diverse age groups. With supportive policies and improved infrastructure, India aims for one million cruise passengers by 2029. Interest from Millennials and Gen Z is driving market growth, but challenges like port infrastructure need addressing for success in this sector.
Concerns regarding the quality of very low sulfur fuel oil (VLSFO) have resurfaced, with over 45% of global supplies failing to meet ISO standards. Sediments and impurities threaten fuel systems, risking costly outages. Experts emphasize rigorous monitoring to ensure operational reliability, as incidents in Houston and Singapore highlight the dangers of contaminated fuel.
The Korea Atomic Energy Research Institute and Samsung Heavy Industries have achieved a groundbreaking milestone by obtaining the world’s first Approval in Principle for an LNG carrier powered by a small modular salt reactor. This innovative reactor technology promises enhanced safety and efficiency, marking a significant advancement in maritime drive technology.
Delegates at the TUC Congress from September 7-10, 2025, unanimously endorsed Nautilus International’s motion on “Future-Proofing UK Maritime Skills and Training.” The motion calls for full government support in maritime training, including 100% SMarT funding and a national training provider, emphasizing the urgent need for skilled maritime professionals.
The UK Marine Accident Investigation Branch (MAIB) has released a report on the tragic sinking of the fishing vessel Argos Georgia near the Falkland Islands, resulting in 13 fatalities. The investigation identified a malfunctioning shell door as the primary cause, allowing water to flood the trawler and lead to its eventual sinking.
The trial regarding the tragic collision between the Commodore Goodwill and fishing trawler L’Ecume II continues, with crew members Artur Sevash-Zade and Lewis Carr facing manslaughter charges. Testimonies reveal Carr labeled the L’Ecume II as “dangerous” before the incident, which resulted in the deaths of three crew members. The case centers on alleged gross negligence.
At the APPEC conference in Singapore, shipping executives highlighted that the transition to alternative fuels will accelerate post-2030 due to stricter emissions regulations. Emma Mazhari of Maersk emphasized a shift toward dual-fuel vessels, while Takeshi Hashimoto noted a focus on LNG and methanol, despite current decarbonization challenges.
