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The Maritime & Coastguard Agency (MCA) has outlined the UK’s plans to implement changes to the Maritime Labour Convention (MLC) agreed upon in June 2022. The ‘Seafarers Bill of Rights’ sets out seafarers’ fundamental rights globally, with new requirements to be incorporated into UK law by 2025.
Marine Medical Solutions, led by CEO Dr. Jens Tülsner, calls for an updated International Medical Guide for Ships. Highlighting the guide’s importance in providing medical care on ships, Tülsner stresses the need for incorporating medical advancements. Advocating for involvement of medical professionals, he emphasizes the importance of updated guidelines for the well-being of seafarers.
On October 29, 2024, new rules were introduced to improve maritime safety and communication during distress situations. The rules require operators of the Global Maritime Distress and Safety System (GMDSS) to obtain a certificate by meeting specific criteria. Applications can be made online with a fee, and successful candidates will receive a provisional certificate.
IMO Secretary-General Arsenio Dominguez recently visited countries in the Red Sea area to address the current situation and show support for freedom of navigation. He expressed concern for innocent seafarers, particularly those held captive on the MV Galaxy Leader by Yemen’s Houthis. Dominguez highlighted the impact of continuous attacks on ships and seafarers.
Swedish startup Candela has launched its hydrofoil electric ferry, Nova, which is now in operation. The 30-passenger ferry traveled from Tappström to Stockholm’s City Hall in just 30 minutes, covering a 15-kilometer route. Powered by electric motors, Nova is the fastest electric ferry globally, cruising at 25 knots above the water’s surface.
South Korean shipbuilder HD Hyundai Heavy Industries is leading a demonstration of autonomous operations on a large containership as part of a government-sponsored program. Equipped with specially designed systems, the vessel is showcasing autonomous collision avoidance and remote control capabilities. The initiative aims to advance technology development and establish international standards for autonomous shipping.
The Port of Rotterdam has implemented a Geofence system to optimize ship movements and reduce CO2 emissions. Ships entering the designated area receive automatic notifications, minimizing wait times and improving efficiency. Research shows a potential 4.23% reduction in emissions and fuel consumption. This initiative highlights a commitment to collaboration for a greener maritime industry.
IMO has updated guidelines for handling MARPOL delivered samples, requiring an increased sample size of 600 ml for compliance checks under SOLAS Regulation II-2/4.2.1. Starting in May 2024, suppliers must include flashpoint data on Bunker Delivery Notes according to MARPOL Annex VI guidelines. These changes aim to improve fuel oil sampling accuracy.
ClassNK has granted approval in principle for a 30,000 m³ LNG carrier with innovative ballast tank design by GTT. This design eliminates filling limits, enhancing operational flexibility in the LNG industry. The AiP demonstrates the feasibility of the concept, showcasing its potential in improving efficiency and safety in LNG transportation.
SOLiTHOR, a solid-state battery developer, has made significant strides in battery technology with lithium metal solid-state battery prototypes showing exceptional performance. Achieving high energy densities and long-term cycling stability, the company aims to revolutionize electric transportation in aviation and maritime industries. Their innovative technology offers lighter, safer, and more powerful solutions.
ClassNK has granted Approval in Principle for Samsung Heavy Industries’ Autonomous Navigation Assistance System, a partially autonomous system providing situational awareness and collision avoidance. ClassNK’s guidelines for automated/autonomous operation were used to review the system, ensuring compliance with requirements. The organization continues to develop safety standards for automated technologies in the maritime industry.
The Indian Navy showcased cutting-edge innovation with the launch of Sagarmala Parikrama, featuring autonomous maritime technology by Indian startups. Matangi, an autonomous vessel by Sagar Defence Engineering, was inaugurated by Defence Minister Rajnath Singh. It aims to traverse 850 nautical miles autonomously, highlighting India’s advancements in technology and innovation.
Yanmar Power Technology recently completed a successful land-based demonstration test of a pilot-ignition hydrogen 4-stroke high-speed engine for coastal vessels. The engine achieved the world’s highest hydrogen fuel ratio and produced 500kW output. Yanmar is also developing zero-emission engines using biofuel and spark-ignition technology. The project is part of zero emission ship demonstration experiment.
STAX Engineering, based in Long Beach, California, has revolutionized emissions control technology with its mobile exhaust capture system. Founder Bob Sharp’s vision for a cleaner future has led to rapid growth as the company addresses air quality challenges in the maritime industry. STAX’s innovative solution is gaining momentum and expanding to meet industry demands.
The ITF Seafarers’ Trust is conducting a survey on seafarer shore leave, extended until the end of 2024. The survey aims to identify issues faced by crew members post-pandemic crew change crisis. Data will improve welfare services in ports, with results expected in January 2025. The Trust provides grants to enhance seafarers’ facilities.
