Nautilus International has reminded seafarers of their rights in the Red Sea amid heightened tensions following Yemen’s Houthi declaration of a maritime blockade on Haifa. The WOAC advises that seafarers can opt out of high-risk voyages and ensures full pay for crew remaining on board during conflicts. Enhanced compensation for risks is also recommended.
The Australian Transport Safety Bureau (ATSB) reported on the July 2022 incident involving the bulk carrier Portland Bay, which nearly ran aground off Sydney. The vessel lost engine power while carrying heavy fuel oil, raising significant environmental concerns. Coordination issues and communication failures hampered the emergency response efforts.
The latest Seafarers Happiness Index shows a slight rise in satisfaction, reaching 6.98 out of 10. However, concerns remain about aging vessels, crew sizes, and training gaps. Many seafarers face stress from long hours and restricted shore leave, yet they find fulfillment through teamwork and supporting their families.
The Maryland Transportation Authority recently completed a study on the survivability of the Chesapeake Bay Bridge in the event of a ship strike. The study revealed the need for additional protection for the piers to meet safety standards. Following the Key Bridge incident, MDTA has proposed risk reduction strategies and a $160 million pier protection program.
The New Mangalore Port Authority (NMPA) is organizing a seminar on “Maritime Adversities” to enhance industry readiness and emergency response in maritime operations. With industry experts and policy-makers attending, the event will focus on crisis management techniques and collaborative efforts to address sea-bound challenges. NMPA aims to promote safety and secure maritime operations.
The Transport Accident Investigation Commission in New Zealand released a report on the grounding of the passenger vessel Fiordland Navigator, attributing it to a fatigued master who fell asleep at the helm. The incident occurred on January 24, 2024, resulting in minor injuries and moderate damage. Recommendations were made to improve safety measures and oversight.
Two European river cruise boats recently collided in separate incidents, one on the Rhine and another in Poland’s Szczecin Lagoon. While the Rhine collision left a cruise ship with significant damage but no injuries among passengers, the Szczecin incident resulted in nine injuries, prompting investigations into safety protocols and causes.
The British Virgin Islands government is updating maritime laws to improve safety, protect the environment, and boost enforcement powers. Premier Dr. Natalio Wheatley stressed the importance of maintaining the territory’s reputation in the maritime sector. The Merchant Shipping (Amendment) Bill, 2025, aligns the Virgin Islands with international maritime standards to enhance flag state administration.
Minister Kang Do-hyung vows to implement tougher safety regulations to prevent maritime accidents. Private sector groups, like the Korea Federation of Fisheries Cooperatives, are also taking action to raise awareness and educate stakeholders. These efforts highlight the growing importance of improving safety standards in the maritime industry to protect lives and prevent future accidents.
Nearly three years after a tragic incident resulting in the deaths of three stevedores, the UK’s MAIB calls for improved training and safety regulations for enclosed space management. The report highlights the need for enhanced training and emergency drills for shore workers and stevedores to prevent future fatalities in the maritime industry.
The UK MAIB report on the deaths of three stevedores on the Berge Mawson in Indonesia reveals a lack of training on safe cargo work. Another incident involving two stevedores in a cargo hold containing zinc concentrate highlights the dangers of enclosed spaces. The IMO is working to enhance safety in enclosed spaces onboard ships.
The ATLAS initiative seeks to modernize the fragmented regulatory framework for nuclear applications in the maritime industry, addressing gaps in SOLAS Chapter 8. By developing an international licensing model and collaborating with nuclear regulators, ATLAS aims to ensure safe and secure nuclear technology deployment in maritime settings, enhancing sustainability and efficiency.
A recent fire incident on the Chinese fishing vessel, Dae Jin, at Suva Harbor in Fiji has raised concerns about marine safety. The 24-year-old longliner had just finished unloading its catch when a fire broke out in the engine room. All 12 crew members escaped with minor injuries. Authorities are investigating the cause.
InterManager, in collaboration with industry partners, is conducting a survey to gather feedback from seafarers on enclosed space risks. The goal is to identify specific areas of concern and improve safety procedures. Despite efforts to reduce fatalities, incidents in enclosed spaces remain a major issue. Seafarers are urged to participate in the survey.
A maritime accident involving the U.S.-flagged chemical tanker Stena Immaculate and the Portuguese-flagged container vessel Solong off the coast of Britain has raised concerns. The collision, on March 10, 2025, caused significant damage and both ships were still burning the next day. Investigators are looking into the cause, with one sailor suspected to be deceased.
