French authorities are probing potential foreign interference after discovering remote-access malware on the Italian-operated ferry, Fantastic, in Sète. The Remote Access Trojan (RAT) enables hackers to remotely control systems. Two crew members were arrested; one remains in custody. Officials suspect an organized attempt to compromise the ferry’s data systems.
The Balearia ferry Ciudad de Mahón encountered severe weather while crossing the Strait of Gibraltar, resulting in the abandonment of its journey to Ceuta. Strong winds and high waves triggered significant discomfort among passengers, leading to seasickness. The captain decided to return to Algeciras for safety after hours of turmoil at sea.
Japan is set to launch its first autonomous navigation ferry, the Olympia Dream Seto, starting operations on December 11. This initiative, part of the MEGURI 2040 project, aims to enhance maritime safety and efficiency. The ferry can accommodate 500 passengers and 60 cars while navigating autonomously, marking a significant technological advancement.
The Korea Coast Guard is pursuing an arrest warrant for the Queen Jenuvia II’s captain after the ferry ran aground near Shinan County, injuring 30 of the 267 individuals on board. Accused of gross negligence, he allegedly left the wheelhouse unattended in a perilous channel, violating maritime regulations. Investigations continue.
The UK Marine Accident Investigation Branch reported on an incident involving the fast rescue craft (FRC) of the ferry Lord of the Isles. During a training exercise on August 23, 2025, the FRC was unintentionally launched, falling 9 meters into the water. Fortunately, there were no injuries, but the craft was irreparably damaged.
All 267 individuals aboard the South Korean ferry Queen Jenuvia 2 were rescued after the vessel ran aground near Jindo, echoing the tragic Sewol disaster of 2014. Initial investigations suggest a navigational error. Passengers reported panic after a loud bang, but the ferry remained upright, with weather conditions favorable for rescue.
Wightlink, the ferry operator serving the Isle of Wight and Hampshire, has proposed staff reductions impacting up to 50 positions as part of its efficiency project. The RMT union warns that this could jeopardize 160 jobs, threatening industrial action unless plans are retracted. Concerns over safety and service quality have been raised.
Two ferry crewmembers are on trial in Jersey for the deaths of three fishermen after a December 2022 collision. The Condor Ferries vessel, Commodore Goodwill, struck the fishing boat L’Ecume II, sinking it instantly. The defendants deny charges of gross negligence, arguing the incident was unavoidable despite the prosecution’s claims.
Indonesian maritime services and police are searching for survivors after the interisland ferry KMP Tunu Pratama Jaya sank near Bali on July 3. Six bodies have been recovered, with 29 survivors found, while about 30 remain missing. Witnesses reported the ferry tilting and taking on water before sinking.
On Monday, the Indonesian ferry Muchlisa sank off East Kalimantan, resulting in the deaths of two crew members. The incident occurred during a journey from Balikpapan to Penajam when the ferry’s engine failed, leading to hull damage. Despite grounding itself on a sandbar, it later sank offshore.
Denmark’s Scandlines is set to launch a pioneering hybrid-electric ferry, known as Futura, currently in trials in Turkey. This vessel, the first in its fleet for zero-emission operations, features a 10 MW battery, enabling efficient travel between Rodbyhaven and Puttgarden. Designed for versatility, it accommodates freight and passengers alike.
The Scottish ferry Glen Sannox faced setbacks, including a five-inch hull crack linked to potential vibration issues. Operational challenges persist with most passenger elevators disabled. The Scottish government is negotiating to purchase Ardrossan Harbor to enhance facilities. Meanwhile, Glen Rosa is significantly overdue, raising concerns among Scottish MPs.
The Hinnøy, Norway’s largest fully battery-powered ferry, has completed construction in Turkey and is on its way to Norway. With a capacity for 399 passengers and 120 cars, it will operate in the Arctic fjord region, setting new records in size, speed, and charging capabilities. This marks a significant step towards sustainable maritime transportation in Norway.
The recent investigation into the sinking of the South Korean ferry Sewol has determined that a steering failure and cargo shift caused the vessel to capsize, resulting in the deaths of 304 people. The captain’s actions were deemed negligent, leading to convictions for murder by omission. Shanghai Salvage was hired to raise the Sewol for further examination.
Kongsberg Maritime has been awarded a project to convert the MF Hamlet ferry to operate emission-free on battery power. The upgrade includes large battery packs and new motors for the azimuth thrusters. Objectives include achieving zero emissions, full electric operation, and mechanical propulsion redundancy. The project is set to begin in November 2025.
