Maharashtra is revolutionizing ferry services with digital ticketing on over 35 routes, launched by Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis on September 30, 2025. This initiative, in partnership with Billeasy, simplifies the ticketing process via WhatsApp, enhancing public transport accessibility and efficiency while minimizing queues for commuters.
Swan Defence and Heavy Industries (SDHI) has achieved a significant milestone by securing its first contract for six IMO Type II chemical tankers, valued at $227 million. This landmark order from Rederiet Stenersen AS marks a pivotal moment for India’s shipbuilding sector, showcasing the nation’s growing capabilities in maritime construction.
The BBNJ Agreement, set to take effect on January 17, 2026, represents the world’s first global treaty for ocean life protection in international waters. It emphasizes sustainable marine resource management, fair sharing of genetic resources, and strict regulations for ships, aiming to enhance marine conservation and reduce pollution across borders.
Cochin Shipyard Limited (CSL) recently delivered the MS Heinz, a versatile vessel, to HS Schiffahrts UG & Co KG in Germany on January 12. This marks the first delivery in the HS EcoFreighter series. The vessel, designed for diverse cargo types and built at CSL’s Kochi facility, underscores CSL’s commitment to global shipbuilding.
The methanol-fueled shipping sector faces a slowdown in orders, yet Cargill remains committed to sustainable operations. Their new vessel, Brave Pioneer, will gather crucial data on green shipping innovations, including wind-assisted propulsion and alternative fuels. President Jan Dieleman emphasizes the importance of testing new technologies for broader adoption.
PaxOcean Group and ABB have launched Singapore’s first fully electric tug, PXO-ACE-1, enhancing the city-state’s harbor craft electrification efforts. Set for deployment in April 2026, this 50-tonne tug features ABB’s advanced electric propulsion system, aligning with the Maritime and Port Authority’s 2030 sustainability goals for harbor vessels.
The launch of the first large-capacity vessel for CO2 transport, with a capacity of 22,000 cubic meters, signifies a breakthrough in shipping. Named Active, it will initially transport LPG under a six-month charter. Capital Clean Energy Carriers aims to capitalize on the expanding carbon capture market, projecting significant growth by 2030.
On Tuesday, the Indian Coast Guard inaugurated ‘Samudra Pratap’, its first domestically developed pollution control vessel. This achievement enhances India’s ability to tackle maritime pollution and reflects a commitment to self-reliance in defense. Equipped with advanced technology, the vessel will play a vital role in environmental protection and maritime security.
An Arc7 ice-class LNG carrier, the Christophe de Margerie, has made history by completing the first winter pickup of LNG from Russia’s Arctic LNG 2 plant. Loaded on December 19, this pivotal achievement for Novatek signifies an effort to sustain production amid Arctic winter challenges, highlighting advancements in ice-class shipping capabilities.
Babcock International Group’s LGE division has reached a milestone with its ecoCO2® cargo handling system. The first of four 22,000m³ liquefied CO₂ carriers completed its maiden gas trial, marking the system’s first operational test. This achievement confirms the ecoCO2® technology’s effectiveness in managing low-pressure CO₂ cargo.
Bureau Veritas Marine & Offshore has classified the CMA CGM ANTIGONE, the world’s first methanol-fueled containership. This 15,000 TEU vessel, built by CSSC Jiangnan Shipyard, emphasizes operational efficiency and reduced environmental impact, featuring a dual-fuel propulsion system that significantly lowers NOx and SOx emissions, aligning with IMO’s 2030 targets.
MSC Cruises has signed a landmark deal with Meyer Werft to build four cruise ships, valued at over €10 billion. The new “New Frontier” vessels, each weighing 180,000 gross tons and accommodating 5,400 passengers, will enhance guest experiences while incorporating advanced environmental technologies to achieve net-zero emissions by 2050.
In a landmark move for India’s maritime sector, the Andhra Pradesh government has approved Sagar Defence Engineering’s proposal for the country’s first dedicated autonomous maritime shipyard at Juvvaladinne fishing harbor. This facility aims to create around 750 jobs and enhance indigenous defense technologies, positioning Andhra Pradesh as a key hub for maritime innovation.
Union Minister Sarbananda Sonowal inaugurated India’s first hydrogen fuel cell passenger vessel at Varanasi’s Namo Ghat, symbolizing a leap in green energy for inland waterways. Developed by Cochin Shipyard, the 24-meter catamaran can carry 50 passengers and emits only water and heat, highlighting India’s commitment to sustainable technology and eco-friendly transportation.
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.
