The Paris-based investment firm has successfully raised over €175 million for its Sustainable Maritime Infrastructure II fund, aimed at facilitating the decarbonization of the European maritime sector. With a focus on small and medium-sized enterprises, the fund offers tailored financing solutions amid increasing environmental regulations and limited options.
Malta’s maritime industry, often operating under the radar, achieved remarkable milestones in 2024 and 2025. With a gross tonnage of 91.3 million tonnes, it became Europe’s largest maritime register. This growth reflects Malta’s economic resilience and commitment to regulatory quality, enhancing its global reputation and influencing international maritime governance.
Hanwha Ocean has delivered the Wind Mover wind turbine installation vessel (WTIV) to Cadeler ahead of schedule. The formal handover occurred on November 28, with the vessel departing on December 2. Wind Mover, featuring a 2,600-tonne crane, will operate in Europe, expanding Cadeler’s fleet to ten vessels.
In 2024, European shipping emissions surged by 13%, reaching their highest levels since 2018. This rise, driven by disruptions in the Red Sea and increased containership speeds, underscored the sector’s vulnerability. Agathe Peigney from Transport & Environment emphasized the urgency for effective emissions regulations amid persistent fossil fuel reliance.
The NGO Shipbreaking Platform, in collaboration with Sandbag and the University of Tuscia, has released a report highlighting the potential of scrap steel from decommissioned ships to support the European steel industry’s decarbonization. Enhancing ship recycling capacity within the EU is essential for transitioning to low-carbon electric arc furnace technology.
Syros, Greece, is emerging as a maritime innovation hub through a partnership between the University of Aegean and EIT Digital. The EIT Digital Summer School focused on Maritime Informatics and Robotics, where participants built autonomous boats and honed coding skills, fostering collaboration between academia and industry to advance marine technology.
The newly launched Whale Alert app in Europe aims to prevent whale collisions by offering real-time alerts and reporting features. Developed by the International Fund for Animal Welfare (IFAW) and Conserve.IO, this free app empowers both recreational and commercial vessels to navigate safely, protecting whales from potential ship strikes.
Two maritime cadets from the Solomon Islands, Selister Kedrian Tamara and Augustine Sino Teisibwebwe, are set for advanced training in Europe, sponsored by a major shipping company and the International Maritime Organization. This opportunity, announced by Captain Dr. Teorae Kabure, aims to enhance the nation’s maritime capabilities significantly.
Holland America Line kicked off its 2025 season in Rotterdam with the arrival of the Nieuw Statendam, utilizing the port’s shore power system for the first time. VP Nico Bleichrodt praised the sustainability efforts and partnership with the port. The season will feature voyages to Europe, showcasing Dutch vendors and supporting local businesses.
The MarLEN project, part of Horizon Europe, aims to transition waterborne transport to zero emissions. Coordinated by Forschungszentrum Jülich, it involves 14 organizations from 10 European countries. MarLEN strengthens the European Research Area in waterborne research, promoting collaboration and funding initiatives to support zero-emission technologies in the maritime sector.
Companies going bankrupt and workers losing their jobs is common in capitalist societies. However, abandoned ships present a different scenario. When a ship is left in a foreign port with no support, dwindling supplies, and services shutting down, it signifies a complex situation. Crewmembers are left in uncertainty, relying on welfare agencies.
Polish Maritime Border Guard officers made a significant discovery in the Baltic Sea, finding over 100 kilograms of cocaine worth $15 million on the black market. This operation highlights the ongoing battle against drug trafficking and the need to protect national security. Seven individuals have been apprehended in connection with the drugs.
Capital Ship Management Corp and FORCE Technology have joined forces to develop Europe’s first XR Full Mission Bridge simulator, enhancing maritime training. Housed in Greece at Capital Group’s facility on Chios Island, set to open in 2025, the simulator reflects a commitment to innovation, sustainability, and leadership in the maritime industry.
A new patrol vessel with a wind-assisted propulsion system is revolutionizing maritime operations by reducing fuel consumption and emissions. This vessel combines traditional power sources with eco-friendly technologies like photovoltaic panels and active trim control for optimal performance at sea. With a focus on sustainability, it sets a new standard in the industry.
A Vietnamese cargo ship sank in the Singapore maritime region, but all 18 crew members were rescued by the container vessel Nicolai Maersk. The successful rescue operation highlighted the importance of swift action and effective communication in maritime emergencies. The incident serves as a reminder of the risks faced by seafarers in the shipping industry.
