The Indian Register of Shipping (IRS) has classified the Lila Jamnagar, a 298,997 DWT Very Large Crude Carrier, enhancing India’s maritime capabilities. Owned by RFK Shipping and registered in GIFT City, this vessel marks a significant milestone in India’s tanker fleet, affirming IRS’s commitment to global safety and performance standards.
The sail-powered cruise ship Orient Express Corinthian has successfully completed propulsion tests, achieving remarkable speeds for its size. Set to enter service in May 2026, this 25,200 gross ton vessel features 54 suites for 110 passengers and utilizes an innovative Solid Sail system, distinguishing it in the luxury cruise market.
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.
The Neoliner Origin, the world’s largest cargo sailboat, completed its inaugural transatlantic voyage on October 30. Despite sustaining damage to its aft sail during a storm, the vessel successfully docked in Baltimore after stopping in Saint Pierre and Miquelon. Designed to significantly reduce emissions, it carries 5,300 tonnes of cargo.
Equinor’s FPSO Bacalhau has begun oil production in Brazil’s Bacalhau field, marking a significant milestone for the company. This advanced vessel, capable of producing 220,000 barrels daily, is pivotal for Equinor’s sustainability goals and aims to generate over $5 billion in free cash flow by 2030, enhancing Brazil’s energy landscape.
ABS has awarded classification to the Saildrone Surveyor, a 20-meter fully autonomous unmanned surface vehicle (USV) designed for deepwater operations. This certification underscores ABS’s commitment to innovation and safety, signaling to the maritime industry that Saildrone’s USVs are safe, tested, and ready for large-scale deployment.
Dhamra Port in Odisha has marked a significant milestone by importing its largest coking coal consignment, totaling 186,782 metric tonnes. Delivered by Tata Steel, this achievement highlights the port’s capability to handle ultra-large vessels and reinforces its status as a premier deep-draft facility on India’s eastern coast.
On June 20, 2025, the Port of Aberdeen unveiled Scotland’s largest maritime decarbonisation initiative with a new shore power system. This project allows ships to use clean energy while docked, significantly reducing greenhouse gas emissions and improving air quality. It aims to position Aberdeen as the UK’s first net zero port by 2040.
Argentine authorities have made a significant breakthrough in organized crime with the largest drug seizure in Port San Lorenzo’s history. Investigations are ongoing after the ship’s cook confessed to involvement in smuggling. Authorities uncovered 469,500 kilos of cocaine, valued at nearly $6 million in Argentina, indicating professional gang involvement.
The new Disney Adventure cruise ship, the largest for Disney, was floated out in Germany. With a gross tonnage of 208,000, it will be Disney’s first ship based year-round in Asia. Featuring the longest rollercoaster at sea, it will have a reduced passenger capacity of 6,700. Disney plans to expand its fleet to 13 ships by 2031.
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.
Bound4blue has successfully installed the world’s largest suction sails on the MV Atlantic Orchard, a juice carrier chartered by Louis Dreyfus Company. The eSAILs® were fitted during the vessel’s survey in Spain, ensuring compliance with FuelEU Maritime regulations and achieving fuel consumption savings of around 10%. This marks bound4blue’s third successful installation this year.
Amasus, a European shipping company, is partnering with Spain’s bound4blue for a second installation of the eSail technology on one of its cargo ships. This installation will feature the largest suction sail system on a general cargo vessel, with a 22-meter unit being retrofitted on a 90-meter cargo ship.
