MSC Cruises has made history as the first cruise line to receive independent verification for methane emissions from its LNG-fueled vessels under the FuelEU Maritime framework. The MSC World Europa and MSC Euribia achieved certification from Bureau Veritas, marking a significant step in enhancing regulatory oversight of maritime greenhouse gas emissions.
Danish shipping giant A.P. Moller-Maersk has launched its second methanol-powered container vessel, advancing its decarbonisation efforts to achieve net-zero emissions by 2040. The 9,000-TEU vessel, built by Yangzijiang Shipbuilding, showcases dual-fuel engines and represents a pivotal shift towards sustainable fuels in the shipping industry amidst evolving regulatory pressures.
Maersk’s U.S.-flagged vessel, Alliance Fairfax, successfully transited the Strait of Hormuz under U.S. military protection, marking a significant step in reopening this crucial waterway. Stranded since February due to rising tensions, the ship’s exit highlights ongoing security challenges, with experts warning of persistent risks for commercial shipping in the region.
The UKMTO reported two vessel incidents near the UAE, including a fire in the engine room of a cargo ship north of Dubai, with all crew safe. Another vessel caught fire west of Mina Saqr, with no environmental impact. Tensions rise as Iran is accused of attacking an ADNOC tanker.
On Sunday, a fire broke out aboard the bulker Nord Houston at Newport Docks, Wales, sparking a major emergency response. The incident underscores a rise in scrap metal fires, often fueled by hazardous materials like lithium-ion batteries. Fortunately, no injuries occurred, and nearby businesses were not threatened.
A recent report by Windward reveals a vessel breached the US blockade on Iranian ports. On April 14, an Iranian-flagged landing craft departed Abbas Port, entering the Gulf of Oman. Additionally, a large oil tanker, falsely flagged and under sanctions, was detected navigating Iranian waters, indicating ongoing maritime activity despite US restrictions.
India’s energy supply was bolstered with the arrival of the Indian-flagged tanker Jag Laadki at Adani Ports’ Mundra terminal, carrying approximately 80,886 metric tonnes of crude oil from the UAE. This marks the fourth Indian vessel navigating the Strait of Hormuz amidst regional tensions, providing essential support to Indian refiners.
On March 13, the Vietnam Maritime Search and Rescue Coordination Center received an alert regarding the Truong Hung 268, which…
A vessel navigating 7 nautical miles east of Fujairah reported an unidentified projectile impact, damaging its steel plating. The UKMTO confirmed all crew members are safe, with no fire or water ingress. This incident raises concerns about maritime safety in the region, prompting investigations into the projectile’s source.
The recent Pollution Prevention and Response Sub-Committee meeting at the IMO in London focused on a paradigm shift in assessing environmental performance. Discussions expanded beyond fuel types to encompass vessel lifecycles, addressing operational challenges like hull conditions and maintenance. This signifies a transformative approach to maritime environmental regulation, emphasizing actual performance.
GustoMSC, a subsidiary of NOV, has secured contracts to design and supply equipment for Hanwha Ocean’s new wind turbine installation vessel, based on the NG-16000X design. Scheduled for delivery in Q2 2028, this vessel will enhance South Korea’s offshore wind capabilities, supporting the government’s goal of 25 GW by 2035.
Cochin Shipyard Limited (CSL) recently delivered the MS Heinz, a versatile vessel, to HS Schiffahrts UG & Co KG in Germany on January 12. This marks the first delivery in the HS EcoFreighter series. The vessel, designed for diverse cargo types and built at CSL’s Kochi facility, underscores CSL’s commitment to global shipbuilding.
Eight months after the sinking of the MSC Elsa 3, MSC Mediterranean Shipping Company posted a bond with the Kerala High Court, enabling the release of the MSC Akiteta II, detained due to compensation claims exceeding $1 billion for environmental damage. Upcoming hearings are set for February 13, addressing local fishing community losses.
Defence Minister Rajnath Singh recently commissioned the Indian Coast Guard’s first indigenously designed pollution control vessel, ‘Samudra Pratap’, in Goa. This advanced 114.5-meter vessel, built by Goa Shipyard Limited, emphasizes India’s commitment to self-reliance, boasting over 60% indigenous content and enhanced capabilities for marine pollution enforcement and search and rescue operations.
In 2025, the subsea vessel market transitioned to a cautious outlook despite strong long-term demand driven by deepwater projects. High dayrates for AHC crane vessels persisted, but a shift towards contractor-controlled fleets and short-term charters introduced volatility. Newbuild orders surged, indicating potential growth as the market stabilizes by 2026.
