The luxury river cruise ship Nicko Vision became stranded on the Danube with nearly 200 passengers as they prepared for New Year’s Eve. Low water levels, about 9 inches below normal, hindered rescue efforts. Passengers initially traveled by bus to Budapest but later rejoined the cruise, continuing toward Bratislava.
India’s maritime heritage is deeply rooted, with shipbuilding traditions evident from the 5th century CE. Ajanta cave murals depict stitched ships made from coir, coconut fiber, and resins. Recently, the INSV Kaundinya’s maiden voyage from Porbandar to Muscat celebrates this legacy, blending ancient craftsmanship with modern design in maritime exploration.
The Odia community in London recently celebrated Bali Yatra with a Maritime Heritage Summit at the UK Parliament. This two-day event honored Odisha’s cultural and maritime legacy, featuring discussions on the historical journeys of sailors and their modern significance. Dignitaries emphasized sustainable innovation and the importance of cultural awareness.
On Kartik Purnima, Odisha comes alive with vibrant festivities as devotees partake in the Boita Bandana ritual. Early morning sees crowds at rivers and ponds, launching banana bark boats adorned with lamps and incense. This celebration honors ancient maritime traditions, symbolizing community unity and the blessings of Lord Jagannath.
During India Maritime Week 2025 in Mumbai, Kolkata Port showcased Bengal’s artistic heritage through a vibrant pavilion. The event featured live demonstrations of Shola craftwork and Chhou mask-making, captivating visitors with the region’s cultural diversity. Chairman Rathendra Raman highlighted the pavilion’s success in engaging global delegates and promoting maritime initiatives.
Bhubaneswar’s Balijatra, Odisha’s historic maritime festival, will debut at the British Parliament on November 14, organized by the Odisha Society of the United Kingdom. The event features a two-day program themed “Ancient Maritime Glory to Sustainable Futures,” celebrating Odia culture, music, and traditions while fostering international dialogue on heritage.
The Directorate General of Shipping (DGS) recently celebrated its 76th anniversary, marking over seven decades of vital contributions to India’s maritime industry. Established in 1949, the DGS has shaped maritime policy, regulated shipping, and enhanced safety standards. Looking ahead, it aims to strengthen India’s maritime sector in line with future visions.
On August 23, 2025, Amsterdam celebrated its rich maritime heritage with the return of SAIL 2025, a five-day festival coinciding with the city’s 750th anniversary. Majestic tall ships adorned with colorful pennants paraded through iconic canals, captivating spectators and inviting visitors to explore floating museums, concerts, and art exhibitions throughout the event.
CMA CGM celebrated the arrival of its first Indian-flagged containership, CMA CGM Vitoria, at Nhava Sheva on April 28, 2025. Attended by Minister Shantanu Thakur, this milestone underscores the Group’s commitment to India, enhancing trade connections with a capacity of 2,592 TEU within the BIGEX Network.
National Maritime Day on April 5 commemorates the 1919 voyage of SS Loyalty, marking India’s independence in the maritime industry. It honors senior officers and industry leaders for their contributions to global trade. The maritime industry, crucial for the global economy, transports goods internationally. India’s extensive coastline and ports position it as a leading maritime trading nation.
MSC Cruises and Chantiers de l’Atlantique recently marked important milestones in the development of three World Class ships in Saint-Nazaire, France. With the delivery of MSC World America, the coin ceremony for MSC World Asia, and the steel cutting for MSC World Atlantic, key figures celebrated the innovative partnership and groundbreaking ships.
As a third-generation boat builder from Goa, Dandekar embraced a challenge by reverting to ancient techniques. Armed only with a hammer, chisel, and coir rope, he endeavored to construct a stitched ship. Overcoming early challenges, his team crafted a vessel caulked with cotton and tree resin, ready to sail the seas.
The Propeller Club of Port Everglades celebrated National Maritime Day at the Lauderdale Yacht Club, marking its 80th anniversary. The event included an invocation by Captain Kenny Collins and performances by musicians and comedians, with remarks from Florida State Senator Chip LaMarca. National Maritime Day commemorates the first successful Atlantic crossing with steam propulsion in 1819.
