On May 25, 2025, the MSC Elsa 3 sank off Kerala, carrying 643 containers, including hazardous materials. An interim report revealed the vessel’s unseaworthiness due to malfunctioning ballast systems and overlooked pressure readings. Aging equipment and delayed management responses contributed to the disaster, highlighting critical gaps in crew training and emergency preparedness.
Wärtsilä will supply the engine and propulsion systems for a new 3,800-deadweight-tonne heavy lift vessel for Hartman Seatrade. Featuring a Wärtsilä 31 engine, the vessel emphasizes fuel efficiency and low emissions. Construction will occur at Rock Shipbuilding, with equipment delivery anticipated in spring 2027, enhancing operational flexibility.
The MSC World Europa, one of the world’s largest cruise ships, lost propulsion off Italy’s coast on August 25. Initially feared to have grounded, authorities confirmed it was safe. With 6,496 passengers onboard, the crew restored partial power, enabling the ship to dock in Naples later that evening.
In real-world tests, Inmarsat Maritime’s NexusWave bonded connectivity service has proven to be a powerful solution for ships at sea, achieving impressive download speeds of 330–340 Mbps and upload speeds of 70–80 Mbps. With network availability exceeding 99.99%, NexusWave combines multiple underlays for superior reliability and redundancy, ensuring seamless connectivity in challenging maritime environments.
Efforts to enhance port capabilities for shore power are underway in Italy, with Cavotec securing €7 million in orders for sustainable technologies. The company will supply systems for cruise ships, Ro-Ro vessels, and containerships in western and southern Italy. The growing trend of onshore power connection is expected to continue, with significant growth projected by 2028.
Orix Corporation and Sumitomo Heavy Industries are collaborating on a new project to explore the feasibility of using soft sails for wind-assisted propulsion on a larger bulker ship. This innovative approach represents a departure from traditional methods, with North Sails Japan developing a furling sail made of UltraPE laminated cloth for testing.
Auramarine, a fuel supply systems pioneer, has launched an Ammonia System to support decarbonisation goals in the marine industry. With expertise in green strategies, the system ensures safety and compliance with regulations. CEO John Bergman highlights the importance of ammonia in achieving net zero shipping and anticipates deliveries in 2026.
