On June 17, 2026, armed assailants attacked a vessel off Yemen’s coast, prompting the ship’s security team to return fire. The skiffs retreated after the confrontation, and the crew remained unharmed. This incident underscores the escalating security threats in the region, with UKMTO urging heightened vigilance in maritime operations.
India’s Directorate General of Shipping has petitioned the Bombay High Court to expedite a third auction for the abandoned vessel Sencer 1, moored in Mumbai since June 2025. This follows the release of five stranded seafarers who endured harsh conditions for nearly ten months. Swift action is needed to address maritime claims.
Royal Caribbean has celebrated a significant milestone with the keel-laying of its seventh Oasis Class vessel at Chantiers de l’Atlantique in France. Scheduled for launch in 2028, this new ship will enhance the esteemed lineup, continuing the brand’s commitment to innovative cruising experiences and setting new industry standards.
Exmar has proudly launched the MGC ANTWERPEN, the world’s first oceangoing vessel powered by a dual-fuel ammonia engine. This innovative mid-size gas carrier can transport 46,000 cubic meters of ammonia or liquefied petroleum gas, achieving nearly zero emissions with low-carbon ammonia, and surpassing current emissions reduction targets by 90%.
In May, Wallem Group’s bulk carrier, en route from Abbot Point to Cam Pha, spotted two distressed Filipino fishermen near the Babuyan Islands. Following the Master’s orders, the crew deployed a rescue boat, successfully retrieving the fishermen from their sinking vessel. The Philippine Coast Guard later commended Wallem for their swift action.
In May 2026, DNV’s Alternative Fuels Insight platform reported 36 new orders for alternative-fuelled vessels, mainly LPG/ethane carriers. Overall, 119 alternative-fuelled vessel orders were placed this year, with LNG vessels dominating. Despite lower tonnage shares compared to 2025, the industry is progressing towards decarbonization amid evolving regulations.
The new hybrid vessel, El Escudo, has launched at the Port of Los Angeles, a collaboration involving multiple partners. This 350-passenger ship features advanced emission-reduction technologies and operates in electric, diesel, or hybrid modes, aiming for at least 30% zero-emission operation, significantly cutting annual emissions.
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…
