Germany’s Central Command for Maritime Emergencies coordinated a major response to an engine room fire on the car carrier Thames Highway. The operation involved 63 personnel, four ships, and two helicopters. The crew swiftly contained the blaze, sealing the engine room and maneuvering the vessel to safety outside the harbor.
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.
Vattenfall has made significant strides on the Nordlicht offshore wind cluster, poised to become Germany’s largest wind project. With construction set to start later this year, the first phase, Nordlicht I, will generate 980 MW, followed by Nordlicht II at 630 MW, both operational by 2028, bolstering renewable energy supply.
Germany’s maritime industry is pioneering sustainable shipping, establishing high environmental standards in global trade. By embracing alternative fuels like LNG and hydrogen, implementing shore power systems, and utilizing smart shipping technologies, German ports and companies are significantly reducing emissions. This commitment, supported by government policies, showcases a balanced approach to economic growth and environmental stewardship.
Germany’s Steelpaint is re-entering the Indian market after 16 years by introducing its Stelcatec corrosion-resistant coating at the Port of Chennai. Partnering with Kaptel Overseas, the trials will assess the performance of Stelcatec’s LPR primer and LTC topcoat on cranes, aimed at enhancing asset longevity and reducing maintenance costs in harsh environments.
German authorities are addressing a major fuel spill in Cuxhaven’s harbor after a collision between the tanker Capella and the Dutch OSV Coastal Legend. Approximately 6,000 liters of fuel leaked, creating a visible “red, oily film.” Fortunately, no injuries were reported, and containment efforts are underway to manage the situation.
Recent rainfall in Germany has led to higher water levels in the Rhine river, allowing vessels to carry more cargo. Despite this improvement, most vessels are still only sailing at around half capacity. The increase in water levels is a result of heavy rain in the region, with more forecasted in the coming days.
Swedish offshore wind developer Vattenfall has greenlit the construction of Germany’s largest offshore wind farm, Nordlicht 1 and 2. With a capacity of 980 MW, the first phase is set to start in 2026. Vattenfall aims to accelerate Germany’s energy transition and reduce carbon emissions through this project. Industry experts are optimistic about the sector’s growth.
Germany recently seized a dilapidated tanker suspected to be part of Russia’s clandestine fleet evading oil sanctions. The Panama-flagged vessel, Eventin, carrying 100,000 metric tons of oil worth 40 million euros, was intercepted en route from Russia to Egypt. The German finance ministry refrained from detailed comments due to tensions with Russia over Ukraine.
German prosecutors are investigating an accident on the Moselle that paralyzed river traffic, involving an inland cargo ship on autopilot. The ship crashed into lock gates, causing significant damage. The captain was not present during the incident. Despite repairs, the lock was reopened in just 55 days. Authorities are looking into the cause of the accident.
The Mosel river in west Germany has reopened to cargo shipping after repairs to a damaged lock were completed ahead of schedule. This crucial transit route for grains and rapeseed between Germany and France was closed for 55 days, impacting European rapeseed futures. The swift reopening is a relief for businesses and traders.
The Mosel river in western Germany is set to resume cargo shipping this week after repairs to a damaged lock progressed quickly. This river is vital for transporting grains and rapeseed between Germany and France. New lock gates have been installed, with test vessel transits scheduled for Thursday to Friday.
Damen Shipyards has delivered Germany’s first all-electric catamaran ferry, E-Kat, to AG Reederei Norden-Frisia. The 32-meter vessel will operate between Norddeich and Norderney, designed for quick passenger embarkation and disembarkation. With twin hulls and aluminum construction, the E-Kat runs on two 600kW electric motors, promising a CO2 neutral operation.
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.
The Federal Waterways and Shipping Administration successfully freed vessels trapped on the Saar in France and the Moselle in Germany ahead of schedule. 78 emergency lock operations were completed in 10 days, with 72 vessels cleared. The lock is expected to reopen by early February, impacting regional transportation in Western Germany, Luxembourg, and France.
