Authorities in Singapore are investigating a serious collision between the ferry Horizon 9 and a chemical tanker, which caused panic among passengers. The incident occurred near the Southern Islands, prompting a swift response from the Maritime and Port Authority. Fortunately, all passengers were safely disembarked, and no injuries were reported.
Finland’s Bluetech has partnered with INSW to develop the ‘SeaWasp’ tanker, focusing on wind propulsion while integrating with INSW’s MR fleet. Enhanced by Norsepower’s Rotor Sails, the design achieves substantial fuel savings, with projected annual reductions of 597.2 metric tons, improving efficiency by 13.5% under optimal conditions.
Seafarers faced a harrowing ordeal, held captive for nearly ten months by two African nations. Enduring torture and mistreatment, their experience raises urgent concerns about the safety of maritime workers. Their release in May 2023 from the vessel Heroic Idun underscores the pressing need for stronger protections and regulations in the industry.
On October 4, the Dutch Coast Guard responded to an emergency involving the product tanker Eva Schulte, which lost propulsion near the Holland Kust Zuid offshore wind farm. Severe weather complicated the situation, but the Multiship emergency tug Protector successfully secured the vessel after hours of effort, preventing a potential disaster.
The Arab Shipbuilding and Repair Yard Company (ASRY) has successfully completed repairs on the Torm Venture, a cargo tanker owned by Denmark’s Torm. Project Manager Mahmood Hassan highlighted the challenge of finishing in 14 days instead of the estimated 18. Torm’s Dry Dock Manager praised ASRY for exceeding expectations in quality and timing.
An ocean-going rescue tug has reached the stranded tanker, Golden Mind, south of New Zealand’s South Island. Maritime New Zealand oversees the situation, confirming no immediate danger. However, towing operations await a break in severe weather. The tanker has been immobilized since September 10, facing steering difficulties.
The trial of Captain Davit Vadatchkoria and two senior officers of the tanker Adler S began on August 25 in Helsinki. Facing serious charges of sabotage and telecommunications interference, the prosecution is seeking prison sentences of two to ten years, alleging intentional misconduct leading to significant maritime damage.
Finland’s National Public Prosecutor has charged the captain and two officers of the EagleS oil tanker for damaging underwater cables in the Gulf of Finland. The crew, predominantly Georgian and Indian nationals, is accused of causing a severe criminal disaster by dragging the ship’s anchor, severing vital communication lines.
On July 6, the Hong Kong-flagged tanker Fulda faced a fire and explosion while traveling from Kandla to Port Sohar. After discharging methanol, the vessel began gas-freeing operations when the blast occurred. All 21 crew members were safely evacuated, and pollution control measures were initiated as a precaution.
The National Bureau of Investigation of Finland has completed its inquiry into the December 25, 2024, cable damage in the Gulf of Finland. Senior officers of the tanker Eagle S are now suspected of aggravated criminal mischief, with evidence pointing to their negligence in navigation and anchor deployment during the incident.
The delivery of Brands Hatch marks a significant milestone in maritime innovation, being the first tanker equipped with BAR Technologies’ WindWings. This technology aims to reduce fuel consumption by 1,200 tonnes annually, cutting CO₂ emissions by over 3,800 tons. Union Maritime is leading a fleet transformation towards sustainability and efficiency.
A product tanker was boarded by pirates off the Nigerian coast, with the crew escaping unharmed. This incident highlights the ongoing threat of piracy in the Gulf of Guinea and West Africa, despite being the first reported in the area in years. Security services are urging caution as pirate activity continues to rise.
BIMCO and ASBA have updated ASBATANKVOY, the non-affiliated tanker form, to reflect changes in the industry since 1977. Developed with input from industry leaders, the 2025 edition includes updated provisions and arbitration venues to streamline the chartering process. The revised form aims to enhance legal certainty and reduce the need for additional rider clauses.
The successful transfer of jet fuel cargo from the damaged tanker Stena Immaculate has been completed, with preparations underway to bring the vessel into a UK port. The collision with the feeder ship Solong led to a fire, crew abandonment, and one missing crewmember presumed dead. Salvors are stabilizing the situation and conducting clean-up operations.
Family members of crewmembers abducted from the product tanker BITU River off the west coast of Africa are pleading for help. Ten crewmembers were taken by pirates while the vessel was en route to Cameroon. The families are seeking assistance from the Indian government to secure the safe return of their loved ones.
