Fincantieri and Oceania Cruises recently celebrated the keel laying of the Oceania Sonata at Marghera shipyard. This inaugural vessel of the Sonata class, set for delivery in 2027, will accommodate 1,390 guests and emphasize luxury travel. The program includes three additional ships, enhancing Oceania’s premium offerings.
On January 19, 2026, Meyer Turku shipyard began production of the fifth Icon Class vessel for Royal Caribbean Group. The steel-cutting ceremony marked the start of over two years of construction. Scheduled for delivery in summer 2028, this ship will enhance the Royal Caribbean fleet with innovative holiday experiences.
Sallaum Lines has proudly welcomed the MV Ocean Explorer to its Ocean Class fleet, marking a significant milestone in its commitment to sustainable maritime operations. This advanced Pure Car and Truck Carrier features LNG dual-fuel propulsion, significantly reducing emissions and aligning with the company’s goal to decarbonize the RoRo shipping sector.
Hindustan Shipyard Limited (HSL) has marked significant progress in its 60-ton Bollard Pull Tug program for the Visakhapatnam Port Authority. Key milestones include the keel laying of the first tug and a contract for a second vessel, underscoring the collaboration aimed at modernizing VPA’s fleet in line with India’s Maritime Vision 2030.
South Korea’s HMM has approved a significant investment of approximately KRW 4.03 trillion (around US$2.8 billion) for constructing new container vessels and very large crude carriers (VLCCs). This strategic move aims to enhance its fleet and operational efficiency, positioning HMM competitively in the evolving global shipping landscape.
The Jawaharlal Nehru Port Authority is advancing the Vadhvan Port development in Maharashtra after receiving Cabinet approval. Despite local opposition leading to legal challenges, the Supreme Court has allowed the project to proceed. Chairperson Unmesh Sharad Wagh emphasized the port’s potential to enhance India’s global trade connections and regional development.
Fincantieri has laid the keel for the Viking Libra, the world’s first hydrogen-powered cruise ship, at its Ancona shipyard. Slated for service in December 2026, this groundbreaking vessel features a hydrogen propulsion system that produces zero harmful emissions, marking a significant step in decarbonizing the cruise industry.
VOC Port has commenced construction of Multi-Cargo Berth No. 10, celebrated by Chairperson Susanta Kumar Purohit at a groundbreaking ceremony. The berth, extending 445 meters with a draft accommodating vessels of up to 125,000 DWT, aims to bolster cargo handling capacity and strengthen the port’s pivotal role in India’s maritime sector.
Cochin Shipyard has begun constructing the Pelagic Wahoo, a sophisticated commissioning service operation vessel for Pelagic Wind Services. This cutting-edge vessel, measuring 93 meters and designed for sustainability, will accommodate 120 personnel. With advanced hybrid propulsion and automation, it highlights Cochin Shipyard’s commitment to innovation and environmentally-friendly practices.
The construction of a new fishing port in Vizhinjam will commence in October 2025, featuring a 250-meter lakeside area as part of a £45 crore project. The initiative, approved by the Kerala State Cabinet, aims to modernize fishing infrastructure while engaging local communities for input on the design and layout.
Chowgule Shipbuilders in Goa marks a milestone in Indian shipbuilding with the launch of the country’s first air cushion vehicle (ACV) at Rassaim Yard. Commissioned by the Ministry of Defense for the Indian Coast Guard, this innovative project reflects India’s growing defense capabilities and commitment to self-reliance under the Aatmanirbhar Bharat initiative.
India has begun constructing its first AI-equipped patrol vessel, the Next Generation Offshore Patrol Vessel (NGOPV), to bolster maritime security. At 384 feet long and displacing 2,700 tons, it will support up to 121 personnel and achieve speeds of 23 knots, enhancing rapid response and extended patrol capabilities.
Bibby Marine has begun constructing its first hybrid commissioning service operation vessel (e-CSOV) for the offshore wind sector, marked by a keel-laying ceremony in Vigo, Spain. Scheduled for 2027, the vessel will reduce emissions and support up to 120 personnel, embodying the company’s commitment to sustainable maritime practices.
The Ministry of Manpower (MOM) imposed $230,100 in fines and issued three stop-work orders after conducting 514 site inspections from April to June. These inspections revealed 1,263 unsafe conditions, including unguarded machinery and faulty forklifts, highlighting significant safety concerns in the construction, manufacturing, and marine sectors.
Fincantieri has landed a major deal with Carnival Corporation worth over $2 billion to build two new cruise ships for AIDA Cruises. This marks the first time Fincantieri will construct ships for AIDA Cruises, showcasing their commitment to sustainability and innovation. The vessels are set to be delivered in the early 2030s.
