A consortium led by ACUA Ocean has received government support for a 145-foot uncrewed offshore vessel, enhancing autonomous operations in energy and logistics. With hybrid-electric propulsion, it plans to explore sustainable fuels like methanol and hydrogen. The project aims for efficient offshore solutions, bolstering inspection and logistics capabilities.
The UK ETS Authority is seeking feedback on a proposal to include emissions from international maritime voyages starting or ending in the UK, set for implementation in 2028. This would cover 50% of emissions under the UK ETS, aligning with EU standards and enhancing decarbonization efforts while evaluating potential impacts on maritime operators.
The Offshore Energies UK (OEUK) has warned that without reforms to the Energy Profits Levy (EPL), thousands of jobs and vital tax revenue are at risk. Adjusting the current levy could significantly boost tax receipts and unlock billions in U.K. projects, enhancing energy security and creating tens of thousands of jobs.
The UK Marine Accident Investigation Branch reported on an incident involving the fast rescue craft (FRC) of the ferry Lord of the Isles. During a training exercise on August 23, 2025, the FRC was unintentionally launched, falling 9 meters into the water. Fortunately, there were no injuries, but the craft was irreparably damaged.
Safety officials in the UK are investigating the death of 32-year-old Lee Hulse, a rig worker who fell from a crane aboard the Valaris 121 in the North Sea. Police confirmed the incident, which occurred on November 14, is not deemed suspicious. Valaris and Shell expressed condolences and support for Hulse’s family.
BlueNose, a London-based maritime innovation startup, has secured $460,000 from the U.K. Government’s Clean Maritime Demonstration Competition to enhance aerodynamic efficiency in commercial shipping. Their Project WAVE, in collaboration with lomarlabs, aims to develop inflatable wind-deflector modules, potentially saving operators nearly $1 million annually while reducing emissions.
On 17 November 2025, the Maritime and Coastguard Agency (MCA) launched its first Areas of Research Interest (ARI), focusing on emerging technologies like alternative fuels and maritime autonomous surface ships (MASS). This initiative aims to connect maritime researchers, businesses, and government, addressing critical trends and enhancing safety and skills for seafarers.
Alfa Laval UK has enhanced dry-docking support for shipowners by introducing pre-docking audits and customized spare parts packages. This initiative aims to minimize turnaround times and maximize fleet uptime, transforming dry-docking into an opportunity for improved performance through better planning and tailored maintenance, ultimately reducing costs and enhancing operational efficiency.
The British Antarctic Survey (BAS) is enhancing its decarbonization efforts with the RRS Sir David Attenborough, which is set to operate on hydrotreated vegetable oil (HVO) during its Antarctic voyage. This initiative aims to significantly reduce carbon emissions, aligning with BAS’s goal of achieving net-zero emissions by 2040.
DNV has launched the first public tender portal for e-methanol procurement in the EU and UK, connecting industrial offtakers with European producers. This initiative aims to enhance the availability of low-carbon fuel essential for maritime transport and heavy industry, aligning with Europe’s renewable energy regulations and accelerating the shift toward cleaner energy solutions.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi highlighted the natural partnership between India and the UK, emphasizing shared values of democracy and freedom. In discussions with British Prime Minister Keir Starmer, they announced military training cooperation and committed to enhancing maritime security in the Indo-Pacific, aiming to strengthen ties in trade and defense.
The UK Department for Transport has partnered with Nautilus to conduct a survey focused on the future of the maritime workforce and seafarer training policies. This initiative aims to gather insights on workforce composition, recruitment challenges, and career advancement pathways, ultimately shaping national policy for the maritime sector.
Recent developments in seafarer employment include a new global minimum wage set to rise to $690 by January 2026, endorsed by the International Chamber of Shipping and the International Transport Workers’ Federation. Concurrently, the UK Government’s Employment Rights Bill aims to enhance seafarer protections, particularly regarding collective redundancies and employment standards.
This year’s World Maritime Day, celebrated on September 25, emphasizes “Our Ocean, Our Obligation, Our Opportunity.” The Maritime and Coastguard Agency (MCA) underscores the UK’s commitment to maritime safety and environmental protection. Innovations in cadet training and technological advancements in search and rescue highlight ongoing efforts to support seafarers and protect marine environments.
The UK is set to launch a Maritime Innovation Hub in April 2026, aimed at accelerating decarbonization in the maritime sector. Hosted by the Maritime and Coastguard Agency, this initiative will support ship operators and technology developers in navigating regulatory frameworks to foster innovative solutions for sustainable shipping.
