DNV has launched a new recommended practice for using hydrogen as ship fuel, focusing on the competence requirements for crew and technical personnel. With safety concerns like leakage and high-pressure storage, proper training is essential. The RP aims to guide operational procedures and enhance emergency preparedness for hydrogen-fueled vessels.
Iran has launched “Hormuz Safe,” a digital insurance platform for vessels in the Strait of Hormuz, allowing cryptocurrency payments amid global banking restrictions. War-risk insurance costs have surged, with premiums rising dramatically. Traditional payments face sanctions, making crypto a viable option, while the U.S. proposes a reinsurance facility for shipping risks.
A consortium led by the University of Vaasa has secured Horizon Europe funding for the H4PERION project, which aims to demonstrate hydrogen-capable internal combustion engines in large vessels. Over four years, the project will innovate in engine development, fuel supply systems, and emissions reduction, targeting efficient, zero-carbon shipping solutions.
Following the launch of a ship-to-ship bunkering service at Vizhinjam International Seaport, the Kerala Maritime Board initiated operations using coastal barges. Recently, 120,000 liters of diesel were delivered to the detained Vietnam-flagged vessel MT Solis, marking a significant advancement in local fueling capabilities and reducing reliance on foreign ports.
The Panama Canal authorities are addressing misconceptions about auction slots, asserting that no vessels bypass waiting lines. CFO Victor Vial emphasized that available slots come from cancellations, enhancing transparency in prioritization. Rising demands have driven auction prices from $135,000 to approximately $385,000, coinciding with increased transit capacity amid improved weather conditions.
The Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways has confirmed the safety of Indian seafarers in the Western Persian Gulf. No incidents involving Indian-flagged vessels were reported in the past 24 hours. Two LPG carriers successfully navigated the Strait of Hormuz, ensuring the safety of operations amid geopolitical concerns.
TUI Cruises has drastically cut crew numbers on the Mein Schiff 4 and Mein Schiff 5, now docked in Abu Dhabi and Doha. Currently, only 59 of 900 crew members remain on the Mein Schiff 4, which has been inactive since late February, focusing on essential operations. Both ships aim to resume service on May 1, 2026.
A French container ship and a Japanese tanker have successfully navigated the Strait of Hormuz for the first time since conflict closed it over a month ago. The passages indicate a possible shift in maritime operations, though it’s unclear whether this results from government action or independent negotiations.
Amid rising tensions in the Persian Gulf, the Indian government has confirmed the safety of all Indian seafarers, with no incidents reported recently. Eighteen vessels, crewed by 485 seafarers, are operating normally. Notably, two LPG carriers have successfully crossed the Strait of Hormuz, ensuring the flow of essential goods continues.
The Australian Border Force (ABF) has ramped up its operations, destroying five foreign fishing vessels under Operation BROADSTAFF. Acting Deputy Commander Brooke Dewar highlighted the proactive enforcement strategy, emphasizing daily patrols to protect marine resources. Since January, 19 vessels have been intercepted, with nine destroyed, showcasing the operation’s effectiveness against illegal fishing.
The International Maritime Organization (IMO) has raised alarms about the dire situation in the Strait of Hormuz, where around 2,000 vessels and 20,000 seafarers are stranded. Secretary-General Arsenio Dominguez emphasized the immense stress on crews facing fatigue and supply shortages, urging for a humanitarian corridor to aid their safe passage.
India is enhancing diplomatic efforts to secure the safe passage of 22 Indian-flagged vessels and 611 seafarers in the Persian Gulf conflict zone. Prioritizing the safety of its tankers and crews, India aims to ensure uninterrupted energy supplies as recent shipments of LPG and crude oil reach its ports, addressing local gas concerns.
On March 12, 2026, the Hellenic Statistical Authority released findings from a 2024 ship and crew census. It revealed 1,107 active ships, predominantly Greek-owned (91.2%). These vessels employed 18,822 seafarers, with a notable increase in female employment, rising from 1,237 in 2020 to 2,048 in 2024, a 65.6% increase.
As tensions mount in West Asia, 38 Indian-flagged ships, carrying around 1,100 seafarers, remain stranded in the Persian Gulf. This situation raises serious concerns for maritime safety and global trade. Union Shipping Minister Sarbananda Sonowal has convened a review to address these issues and ensure the safety of Indian personnel.
On March 1, 2026, three vessels were attacked in the Strait of Hormuz amidst rising tensions from Iranian retaliatory strikes against US-Israeli air raids. One ship off Oman was hit by an unidentified projectile, igniting a fire that was later controlled. Another vessel also faced a projectile strike, but all crew members remained safe.
