GTT announces receiving an order from Korean shipyard HD Hyundai Heavy Industries for the tank design of three new Very Large Ethane Carriers (VLECs) on behalf of an Asian ship-owner. The tanks will offer a total capacity of 98,000m3 and will be fitted with GTT’s Mark III membrane containment system. Delivery is scheduled between Q4 2026 and Q2 2027.
The Israeli military has targeted places of worship for the first time in southern Lebanon in its war against Hezbollah. The Israel Defense Forces hit forests, residential homes, and roads in the border area, raiding the National Evangelical Church and targeting various towns. Hezbollah retaliated with appropriate weapons, causing further conflict and displacement.
President Marcos has directed the Maritime Industry Authority (Marina) to standardize the Philippine maritime industry to meet global benchmarks. He emphasized the need to provide a standardized system following international standards before implementing any proposed programs. The agency’s primary goal is to ensure the safety and security of life and property at sea.
The commercial marine industry needs the next generation of innovators and problem solvers to shape the future. The European Commission stresses the need for investment in skills and career development in the Blue Economy. Seawork hosts a Maritime Training & Careers Pavilion and Careers Trail to showcase opportunities in the industry.
National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan announced the re-designation of the Houthis as a Specially Designated Global Terrorist group. This decision is a response to the militants’ attacks on US military forces and international maritime vessels. The aim is to hinder their access to funding and hold them accountable. The designation will be effective in 30 days.
Carnival Corporation and Fincantieri are rumored to be finalizing a $5 billion new cruise ship construction order, breaking the drought on large cruise ship orders since the pandemic. The order would break records in ship size and dollar value, reiterating Carnival’s leadership in the industry.
Shipping giants Maersk and Hapag-Lloyd have signed a long-term operational cooperation agreement called “Gemini Cooperation”, scheduled to begin in February 2025. The partnership aims to offer superior schedule reliability, a comprehensive global network, and reduced carbon footprint. The collaboration will combine the fleets of both companies to create a pool of around 290 ships with a total capacity of 3.4 million containers.
Ocean Network Express (ONE) is investing in methanol dual-fueled containerships, part of a $20 billion fleet and operations strategy. The vessels, to be delivered in 2027, will have a capacity of 13,000 TEU and feature state-of-the-art technologies for fuel efficiency and GHG emissions reduction. The move aligns with ONE’s sustainable goals.
Tuco Marine proudly delivers a cutting-edge 15m ProZero workboat to Diskoline, a renowned Greenlandic shipping company. The vessel is designed for Arctic conditions, powered by twin inboard Volvo Penta diesel engines, and equipped with specialized features for passenger comfort and safety. This delivery demonstrates Tuco Marine’s commitment to providing innovative and reliable vessels.
Applied Satellite Technology Ltd (AST) has been awarded the Intellian OneWeb Certification, allowing them to install Intellian parabolic antennas. This accreditation solidifies AST’s position as a leader in maritime connectivity solutions. AST is also authorized to offer certified training for Intellian OneWeb solutions, aiming to foster a community of skilled technicians in the maritime sector.
Orkney Ferries, a Scottish inter-island ferry operator, has partnered with Hogia Ferry Systems to implement their reservation system, BOOKIT, in Spring 2024. This new system will offer benefits for customers, allowing online changes and refunds. Hogia Ferry Systems aims to improve Orkney Ferries’ service level and customer offerings with their modern platform.
Hanwha Group’s Vice Chairman, Kim Dong-kwan, revealed the company’s strategy to decarbonize maritime shipping at the World Economic Forum. The plan includes developing a zero-emission gas carrier and using green technology to operate on alternative fuels like ammonia. This initiative aims to stimulate market demand for decarbonized maritime solutions.
ISRO has developed a second generation Distress Alert Transmitter (DAT-SG) for maritime rescues. Leveraging advances in satellite technologies, the DAT-SG uses an ultra high frequency (UHF) transmitter based on the NavIC module. It allows fishermen to send out emergency messages, receive alerts, and report their locations, improving safety and efficiency.
Classification society ClassNK has awarded approval in principle (AiP) to Japanese company Yanmar Power Technology (YPT) for a maritime hydrogen fuel cell system, marking the first AiP certification for such a system developed by a Japanese manufacturer. The 300 kW system is designed with key auxiliary components integrated within the system enclosure for easy installation on ships.
WAFIC has proposed an alternate plan for the South Coast Marine Park, with only a 10.7% sanctuary zone allocation based on science and consultation. CEO Darryl Hockey acknowledges the hardship for fishers but emphasizes the proposal’s environmental and socioeconomic benefits. More information can be found on their website.
