The sinking of the MSC Elsa-3 off Kerala’s coast has raised alarms over maritime safety. Captain Naveen Singhal attributed the disaster to improper container loading, leading to stability issues. He emphasized the risks of under-declared container weights, urging for improved verification methods to prevent such hazardous incidents in the future.
A fishing vessel sank off Drogheda, Co Louth, early this morning, triggering a rapid rescue by the Irish Coast Guard helicopter R116. After detecting an EPIRB signal, the crew located two individuals in the water using advanced night vision technology. Both were rescued and transferred to medical care, emphasizing the operation’s success.
On May 28, 2025, Shantanu Thakur inaugurated significant projects at Deendayal Port Authority, highlighting a commitment to enhancing seafarer welfare and operational excellence. Key developments include a Seafarer Centre with premium amenities, an extended railway infrastructure for better cargo efficiency, and a new telescopic gangway for safer vessel access.
A month after announcing their merger plans, the Saverys family confirmed Golden Ocean’s integration into CMB.TECH, forming a major maritime group valued at approximately $1.4 billion. Shareholders will receive shares in the new entity, which aims to enhance resilience and leadership in decarbonization efforts, despite recent financial challenges.
LALIZAS is expanding in the Americas, having acquired Brazil’s leading lifejacket manufacturer, ATIVA NÁUTICA. Founded in 1998, ATIVA has grown significantly under Marta Lara and Roberto Sampaio. This acquisition reinforces LALIZAS’ commitment to nurturing small businesses while enhancing the nautical industry and setting new safety standards across continents.
Kongsberg Discovery has unveiled the FS80 Trawl Sonar, a revolutionary system that enhances pelagic trawling by integrating net monitoring, intake profiling, and bottom detection in a compact design. Showcased at the Pacific Marine Expo, this advanced technology aims to improve operational efficiency for fishery operators, promoting sustainable fishing practices.
To enhance intra-African cooperation, the National Insurance Commission (NAICOM) has partnered with Ghana’s insurance regulatory authority. This collaboration aims to improve marine insurance practices in West Africa through knowledge sharing and regulatory harmonization, fostering local marine insurance coverage in Ghana and strengthening ties for a unified market attractive to global reinsurers.
The Solent’s maritime sector is gaining national acclaim, with local businesses nominated in seven of eleven categories for the Maritime UK Awards, scheduled for June 26 in Dover. Notable nominees include Carisbrooke Shipping Ltd and Carnival UK. Chair Anne-Marie Mountifield praised the region’s collaboration and innovation, highlighting its maritime leadership.
All 20 Filipino seafarers aboard the M/V MSC Elsa, which sank off Kochi, Kerala, are safe and awaiting repatriation. Currently in a local hotel, they maintain communication with families for support. The Department of Migrant Workers is coordinating with authorities to expedite their return to the Philippines.
As strong monsoon rains impact Vizhinjam International Seaport, officials have implemented safety measures for container and ship operations. Despite rough sea conditions, container activities continue, as cranes operate from a control room. However, the expansion of the breakwater faces delays due to high waves complicating construction efforts.
The Dutch Safety Board has urged major reforms in maritime emergency response systems after investigating the 2023 fire on the Fremantle Highway. The review revealed inadequate training and poor agency coordination, leading to delayed responses and injuries. The report calls for improved communication and a dedicated director to oversee emergency efforts.
Shipping is at a crucial juncture, poised for digital transformation through AI and predictive analytics. However, challenges like data fragmentation and resistance to transparency persist. To enhance operational efficiency and drive revenue, stakeholders must prioritize data consolidation and embrace advanced technologies, ensuring adaptability in an evolving maritime landscape.
On May 28, 2025, Thailand’s cabinet approved amendments to the Maritime Labour Act, enhancing seafarer protections to meet international standards. The revisions include employment contracts under the Social Security Act, prohibiting underage employment, and granting the Marine Department authority over training certifications, significantly improving labor conditions for seafarers.
The grounding of the bulk carrier Ali Aykin in the Øresund has proven more serious than initially believed, with confirmed hull damage and water ingress. While no injuries or spills have been reported, the vessel carries 18,000 gallons of diesel, prompting authorities to monitor for pollution risks as investigations continue.
In a dramatic rescue, all ten crew members of the Vietnamese cargo ship Cong Thanh 07 were saved after it sank off Ha Tinh Province on May 25. The vessel, carrying 4,900 tons of coal, succumbed to engine failure and heavy listing, triggering a swift response from local authorities.
