Seafarers worldwide face significant challenges, including fatigue and anxiety, according to research from Cardiff University’s Seafarers International Research Centre. Over a third of cargo workers reported insufficient sleep, often due to demanding hours. Alarmingly, many did not receive timely medical care, exacerbating the already difficult conditions at sea.
Transport Corporation of India Ltd. (TCI) reported strong financial results for Q4 and FY2025, with consolidated revenue of ₹11,972 million, reflecting a 9.3% increase. EBITDA rose 11.3% to ₹1,401 million, and Profit After Tax grew by 11.4% to ₹1,151 million. The company’s focus on multimodal logistics drives its growth.
RINA reported impressive financial results for 2024, achieving €915 million in revenues and €138 million in EBITDA, reflecting significant growth. The company’s net profit more than doubled to €30.4 million. Looking ahead, RINA is advancing its 2030 strategic plan, emphasizing innovation through initiatives like Open Innovation Hubs and the AI Factory.
Lloyd’s Register’s Maritime Decarbonisation Hub and Mærsk Mc-Kinney Møller Center for Zero Carbon Shipping have released reports addressing the upskilling needs of future seafarers in the transition to alternative fuels. Focusing on ammonia as a promising fuel, the reports highlight safety hazards and propose comprehensive training programs to ensure seafarer safety.
The International Seafarers’ Welfare and Assistance Network’s SeafarerHelp helpline has seen a surge in calls regarding abandonment, mental health issues, and abuse at sea. The rise in cases highlights the struggles faced by seafarers, including unpaid wages and fraudulent recruitment. YachtCrewHelp also reported an increase in contractual problems, underscoring the need for better support.
Bikram S. Bhatia’s PhD dissertation at the World Maritime University uncovered discrepancies in seafarers’ work/rest hour reporting within the shipping industry. Using the ITFRAM, his research highlighted seafarers’ record adjustments and PSC officers’ high compliance rates. The study emphasized the need for systemic changes to enhance safety and fairness in the industry.
The global merchant fleet is aging rapidly, with many vessels expected to be over two decades old by 2030. Xclusiv Shipbrokers in Greece is concerned about meeting green targets set by the IMO. The industry surge in shipbuilding is not enough to replace aging vessels and meet environmental goals.
ISWAN’s campaign ‘Safe at sea…it takes all of us!’ offers practical guidance on addressing inappropriate behavior and building support networks in the maritime sector. By promoting allyship between male and female crew members, the guides aim to create a safer and more inclusive work environment for all seafarers.
The establishment of international regulatory sandboxes is crucial for the advancement of Maritime Autonomous Surface Ships (MASS), as outlined in a report by LR and MOL. These environments enable testing of new technologies, promoting regulatory harmony and innovation in the maritime industry. MASS has the potential to enhance efficiency, safety, and sustainability.
The St Vincent and the Grenadines Sailing Association, along with the French Embassy and Blue Life Yacht Charters, are offering local youth training and work experience in the yacht charter industry. This program aims to prepare them for careers in this growing sector, with training taking place in Bequia over 8 weekends between October 2024 and May 2025.
Opsealog’s new white paper stresses the crucial role of data standardization in the marine offshore sector, going beyond regulatory requirements to enhance operational efficiency and environmental performance. The report advocates for a revolution in data standards, highlighting industry initiatives like the Smart Maritime Council and Energy LEAP.
The 2024 edition of The Future of Maritime Safety Report by Inmarsat Maritime shows a 7.6% decrease in Global Maritime Distress and Safety System (GMDSS) distress calls in 2023 compared to the previous year. Despite this decline, the service was still triggered 788 times, highlighting ongoing challenges in maritime safety and the need for real improvements in the industry.
Paris MoU has released guidelines for certifying Seafarers and Manning Requirements in line with STCW Convention, MLC, and SOLAS. SOLAS V/14.2 applies to ships under SOLAS 1974, while STCW 1978 and MLC, 2006 apply to seafarers on seagoing ships. Inspections should note deficiencies related to these conventions, with specific focus on verifying certificates and endorsements. PSCC instructions should be followed for MLC deficiencies.
Data from the first quarter of 2024 reveals the harsh working conditions faced by seafarers, with increased risks due to geopolitical tensions. The International Bargaining Forum designated the Red Sea and Gulf of Aden as ‘Warlike’ zones after a fatal missile attack, while Somali piracy incidents resurged. SeafarerHelp saw a rise in seafarers seeking assistance for contractual issues and ABHDV, highlighting the urgent need for industry unity in protecting seafarers’ rights and welfare.
Bureau Veritas (BV) has released a report assessing the technical viability of carbon capture & storage (CCS) technology in the marine market. Titled “Onboard Carbon Capture: An Overview of Technologies to Capture CO2 Onboard Ships,” the report explores emerging CCS technologies, feasibility studies, challenges, and the role of carbon capture in decarbonizing the maritime sector.
