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.
A jury in Piraeus, Greece found the captain and first officer of the interisland ferry, Blue Horizon, guilty in a tragic 2023 case where a passenger was pushed to his death as the ferry departed port. The crewmembers faced charges for their roles in the incident, sparking national outrage in Greece.
Marine Charging Point (MCP) is transforming travel with cutting-edge ferries like M/S Tycho Brahe and M/S Aurora, equipped with 160 kW charging stations for EVs. These ferries offer sustainable solutions with 4 MWh batteries and renewable energy sources. The market trend shows increased investments in marine EV charging, promising a greener future in maritime transport.
Germany’s first fully electric seagoing vessel, the E-Kat catamaran ferry, has successfully completed acceptance trials. Designed by Damen Group, it can carry up to 150 passengers and 11,250 kg of payload, operating at speeds of up to 16 knots. With a battery power system of 1,800 kW, it aims for efficient and environmentally friendly transportation.
Irish Ferries faced challenges with their Dublin-Holyhead ferry route due to terminal damage. They opened a new route to Fishguard, but it was also temporarily shut down. Collaborating with Stena Line and Welsh government, they found alternative solutions. Despite setbacks, they are working to address disruptions in freight and passenger transport.
The UK Marine Accident Investigation Branch (MAIB) recently published a report on an engine room fire on the ro-ro passenger ferry Stena Europe near Fishguard, Wales. The fire, originating from a main engine, was caused by pressurized fuel spraying onto a high-temperature exhaust pipe. Recommendations were made for improved safety measures and crew training.
The Maritime Safety Authority of Fiji and Goundar Shipping successfully recovered a stranded ferry near Moala Island. With 245 passengers onboard, emergency response measures were implemented, and the vessel was refloated with minimal damage. Despite past safety concerns, Goundar Shipping remains committed to improving operations and passenger experience. Passengers were safely transferred to continue their journey.
