Major new report identifies pathways to unlocking £75bn financing needed for UK shipping’s energy transition
A report produced by Marine Capital Ltd, with the support of UMAS and Lloyd’s Register (LR), estimates that approximately £75bn of investment over the coming three decades will be required for the UK’s domestic maritime sector to transition to net zero. Attracting new sources of capital will be key to the industry’s energy transition. The report, ‘UK Domestic Shipping: Mobilising Investment in Net Zero’, identifies funding mechanisms that can be applied immediately to unlock untapped investment capital to finance this transition, without waiting for the introduction of carbon pricing or the selection of a ‘winning’ zero emission fuel solution.
The report presents the most comprehensive study to-date of the UK domestic maritime sector, and its findings and recommendations are intended to contribute significantly to the next iteration of the UK government’s Clean Maritime Plan.
The complexity of the UK’s domestic maritime sector, with its diverse range of stakeholders, vessels and ports presents significant challenges to achieving net zero. The Study identifies the vessels which comprise the UK domestic and short-sea shipping fleets and provides a profile of these fleets, including a breakdown of emissions by different vessel types. This analysis shows that the largest source of emissions come from a relatively small subsector of vessels, providing the potential for targeted measures.
Both investment and clear, coordinated policy support will be required to overcome the various barriers that currently hinder the sector’s decarbonisation transition. These barriers include uncertainty regarding future demand for and supply of clean fuels, lack of clarity over the evolution of the policy and regulatory environment and limited access to funding by many stakeholders. Identifying areas of priority will be key to the sector’s successful navigation of the net zero pathway over the coming two decades.
Institutional investors, who together represent over $80 trillion in assets, could be a viable source of funding. However, government support will be needed to help them overcome some of the hurdles currently impeding their participation.
Through the use of case studies, the report considers how institutional capital can be unlocked at scale through different types of funding mechanisms and the appropriate supporting government policy. The case studies highlight particular areas which are appropriate for priority attention. Ferries and Ro-Ro vessels, which account for 10% of vessels but 50% of emissions from the domestic and short sea fleets are one such area, as are offshore service vessels. Given the UK’s planned expansion in offshore wind projects, vessels which service this market are also good candidates for targeted measures.
In assessing the appropriate measures and structures that could be applied to the UK’s domestic maritime sector, the report also considers the lessons that can be learned from other comparative regimes, including initiatives such as Green Corridors.
Although decarbonisation undoubtedly presents many challenges for the industry, it also opens up the potential for the UK to build on its core competences and increases the opportunities for growth throughout the UK’s maritime supply chain, from maritime equipment manufacturers and domestic shipyards to manufacturers of clean maritime technology.
Commenting on the report’s findings, Tony Foster, CEO of Marine Capital Ltd, said: ‘Shipping’s decarbonisation presents many challenges. Domestic shipping is enormously diverse, so merely getting to grips with that diversity was a key element in framing the report. We have highlighted, through case studies, financial mechanisms which can facilitate the participation of institutional capital, particularly in the large-scale fleet renewal that is required. The report clearly indicates how progress can be made now and the support which government can provide to unlock this investment.’’
Akash Kapur of UMAS said: “The UK domestic and short sea fleets’ structures of ownership and operation is ill-prepared and ill-suited to the rapid transition to new energy and technologies that is needed. The suggestions for new investors, novel ownership structures and coalitions, in combination with much greater clarity and regulation from government, provides a pathway for shipping to align with UK’s net zero objective.”
“The coming three decades will need to see a significant shift towards large-scale investments into new and retrofitted vessels in domestic fleets, zero carbon fuel production and bunkering infrastructure, alongside their associated supply chains, which can span across multiple related industries across the world,” observed Dr.Carlo Raucci, Decarbonisation Consultant, LR Maritime Decarbonisation Hub. “These are deep, long-term commitments requiring a coordinated approach by both government and the industry to mobilise investments from external sources of capital.”
Jos Standerwick, CEO of Maritime London, who chaired the working group that highlighted the need for this report said: “This report provides a crucial contribution to the UK’s maritime decarbonisation plan. The report clearly evidences where the barriers to new capital entering the market exist and how the UK government can provide assurance to unlock investment. The UK domestic shipping industry now has the foundations of a commercial pathway to successfully achieve the UK’s net zero objectives.”
Inmarsat reaches deal with Zamil Offshore to roll-out Fleet connectivity for Saudi Aramco chartered vessels
Inmarsat has reached an agreement with offshore services provider Zamil Offshore to roll out an Internet-of-Things (IoT) solution to more than 60 vessels in the Gulf area.
The solution - powered by Fleet Connect and Fleet Data delivered through Inmarsat’s award-winning Fleet Xpress - will allow Zamil to identify, trial and select the best solutions to meet vessel performance expectations set by its charterer, Saudi Aramco. The announcement follows a successful trial on the fleet’s anchor tug, Zamil 57.
As the world’s leading energy and chemicals producer, Saudi Aramco is contributing to Saudi Vision 2030, a strategic framework that aims to reduce Saudi Arabia’s dependence on oil and diversify its economy. This means Aramco needs deeper insight and control over the performance of its chartered ships, including those piloted by Zamil.
Fleet Connect will provide the dedicated bandwidth to support vessel CCTV capabilities and other value-added services, while Fleet Data will power enhanced data analytics for efficiency and sustainability.
Scott Middleton, Regional Sales Director, Inmarsat Maritime, said: “In addition to providing fast and reliable connectivity to improve crew welfare, Fleet Xpress enables the digital and IoT capabilities that Zamil Offshore needs to meet their needs. We are grateful to our local partner, Petroleum and Energy Trading Services Company, for its support in rolling out our end-to-end solution across Zamil’s extensive and varied fleet.”
Fredrik Lang, Technical Manager, Zamil Offshore, said: “Inmarsat has been deeply involved in this project from the outset, offering us guidance and support in securing value-added services that will allow us to meet Saudi Aramco’s requirements in surveillance and performance monitoring.
“Thanks to the scalability of the IoT solution, we can add more applications and have the the opportunity to evaluate different options to establish what best meets our needs within our contract. New applications for vessel digitalisation are surfacing constantly and we are delighted with how Fleet Xpress allows us to find the best providers without being locked in.”
Aamir Khan, Regional Manager, Petroleum and Energy Trading Services Co. (PETSE), said: “Saudi Aramco is the leading energy company in the Middle East, while Zamil operates the region’s largest offshore fleet. Operations of such scale require high-performing satellite connectivity. Inmarsat’s offering in this arena is unparalleled.”
The programme will also see an initial pilot of Videosoft Global’s live-video compression and transmission services to meet Aramco’s CCTV requirements, supported over Inmarsat’s Fleet Connect dedicated bandwidth channel. Vessel performance management capabilities will be provided by VPS, using Fleet Data’s analytics capabilities to support its solution for data-driven decarbonisation, Maress. These separated channels ensure there is no interference with mission-critical bandwidth onboard.
Iain Janes, Satellite Business Development Manager, Videosoft, said: “Our ultra-low bandwidth streaming service is dramatically more data-efficient than other solutions. As a result, we are opening new markets in areas where live video streaming from a vessel was believed to be too data hungry, unaffordable, or not possible. There is also the added advantage that Videosoft technology provides automatic variable bitrate control, so customers should never lose a live stream whilst there is a connection, even as low as 4 kbps.
“When delivered via a secure, dedicated connection through Fleet Connect - and backed by the high speeds and reliability of Fleet Xpress - Videosoft offers an onboard CCTV solution that fulfils Saudi Aramco’s high expectations for round-the-clock monitoring.”
Sindre Bornstein, VP Commercial Decarbonisation, VPS, said: “Inmarsat’s Fleet Data supports the data collection, transfer, and analysis processes that we will use to offer actionable insights. We are excited to support Zamil Offshore and Saudi Aramco in improving the efficiency of offshore operations. Maress will allow these companies to collaborate to minimise fuel consumption and emissions in line with Saudi Vision 2030.”
In partnership with Zamil and Saudi Arabia’s CST – Communications, Space and Technology Commission - Inmarsat will continue to highlight the potential of IoT technology delivered via geostationary orbit satellites as a means of connecting offshore vessels to shore to enable applications such as fuel & emissions savings, condition based monitoring and remote surveys.
WinGD cybersecurity type approval from DNV prepares owners for incoming regulations
Swiss marine power company WinGD has become the first marine engine designer to gain cybersecurity type approval for its engine control system, ahead of mandatory regulations due to enter force in 2024. Classification society DNV has granted WinGD Control Electronics (WiCE) an SP1 type approval, aligning with International Association of Classification Societies (IACS) Unified Requirement (UR) E27 technical system requirements – a cybersecurity standard that will apply to all newbuilds.
DNV’s SP1 ‘Cyber Secure Essential’ notation certifies that vessels are built with cybersecurity standards equivalent to UR E26, governing system integration, and UR E27, applying to installed technologies. The engine control system is one of several ship systems that need to be validated to E27 standard. Type approval assures that WiCE is technically ready to meet this standard.
WinGD Head of Digital Transformation & Technology Peter Krähenbühl said: “This approval places WinGD as a frontrunner in the cybersecurity of essential ship systems, offering peace of mind to yards and shipowners that vessels powered by a WinGD engine will be compliant with upcoming regulations. It is great to see our digital roadmap on track to deliver the confidence and security our customers rely on us for.”
DNV Head of Digital Ship Systems Jarle Coll Blomhoff said: “Cybersecurity is an increasingly critical element for the safe operation of more vessels as system complexity interconnectedness on-board and on-shore deepens. This is also a trend we see reflected not only in the emerging regulations, but commercial requirements.
“We are very pleased to be able to award WinGD SP1 type approval for their WiCE engine control system. Taking a proactive approach to cyber-security compliance not only assures customers that their systems have been developed with cyber threats in mind, but also helps build confidence and streamline the implementation of advanced digital technologies throughout the maritime industry.”
The approval ensures that WiCE meets a list of requirements that safeguard cybersecurity according to the IEC62443 standard. This includes identification and authentication, software authenticity verification, backup and rollback functionality, cybersecurity event logging, and traffic monitoring and control.
The approval of WiCE is the first step in assuring cybersecurity across WinGD’s control and monitoring systems for vessels. The next steps involve working towards type approval for sub-control systems governing auxiliary components, including emissions abatement.
WiCE was introduced in 2019 to provide WinGD engines with the robust connectivity and security needed to support more advanced control strategies, as well as increased integration with other ship systems. It is deployed across most new WinGD engines and will replace the long-established UNIC architecture.
New great journey in heavy-lift shipping unfolds as Harren Group completes full takeover of Intermarine
The future of heavy-lift shipping is unfolding in an exciting new way. With a combined fleet of 50 vessels, Intermarine and SAL Heavy Lift enter the world as sister companies under one corporate roof and ownership. A greater service scope to clients and a larger footprint in the market is the target.
When the Harren Group took a 50% stake in Intermarine in late 2020, the market was still significantly affected by the decade-long slump in the multipurpose sector and amid a COVID-19 pandemic. With a fleet of six vessels servicing the Americas, Intermarine was a niche operator with a historically strong brand and a dedicated team. Fast forward to 2022: Intermarine now operates a fleet of 25 vessels, is the dominant multipurpose operator in the Americas and is expanding internationally servicing clients in Asia and Europe.
From the beginning, it was clear that Intermarine should remain an independent brand with its own dedicated commercial setup next to SAL’s. This strategy will remain after the full acquisition of Intermarine, but an even closer cooperation will develop over time.
Svend Andersen, CEO of Intermarine, states: “When Martin Harren and I discussed the business plan for Intermarine two years ago, it was clear that we should build on its existing strong brand and legacy and keep focused on our core competency – our reliable and regular breakbulk shipping in the Americas. Since that discussion, we have expanded the business with offices in Brazil, Denmark, and most recently Bangkok. Today the Intermarine brand stands strong and in lock-step with that of SAL.”
Richard Seeg, President of Intermarine, elaborates further: “The last two years have been busy – we have re-established Intermarine as the go-to multipurpose carrier in all the Americas. We focus on reliable transportation for our clients in the oil and gas, mining, power generation and infrastructure industries, through our regular liner and chartering services. While SAL and the Jumbo-SAL-Alliance focus more on complex, heavy project cargos, we continue to find synergies that are beneficial for our individual and mutual customers with the vessels and services available through both of our services.”
Jens Baumgarten, Managing Director and Head of Chartering at SAL Heavy Lift, adds: “I can justly confirm that both the Jumbo-SAL-Alliance and Intermarine have grown stronger through the cooperation and mutual understanding we have commercially. We now explore together with Intermarine how we can expand further and build an even stronger offering in strategic markets and for key clients that can benefit from the bandwidth of services that we jointly provide. Intermarine sits extremely well within our global network that counts 23 offices in 21 countries and 50 vessels with more to come.”
Chad Call, CFO of Intermarine, says: “The synergies with SAL and the Harren Group have been crucial to building up Intermarine for the long term. By leveraging the Group’s ship management capacity, financing capabilities, engineering resources and marketing function, Intermarine has been strengthened significantly over the past 24 months. This will continue.”
Dr. Martin Harren, CEO of the Harren Group, adds: “In fact both SAL and Intermarine support each other – our breakbulk clients benefit from more vessel positions and a wider range of services looking holistically at the business. But just as important – each company contributes to the growth of the entire group, enabling us to continue to invest and develop our businesses and fleets for the long-term future. So, you can say that the success of one becomes the success of the other.”
The transfer of shares was completed on 16 November 2022 and has no effect on the current operations or the commercial obligations of either Intermarine or the Jumbo-SAL-Alliance.
Valaris renews fleet-wide LSA service and maintenance agreement with Survitec
Offshore drilling operator Valaris has confirmed it has renewed, for an additional three years, the service agreement it has in place with Survival Technology solutions provider Survitec championed by a customer-centric approach.
An extensive network of more than 400 service stations around the world combined with streamlined lifesaving appliance maintenance were key factors in the decision by Valaris to remain with Survitec.
The master service and supply contract, originally signed in 2016, covers the annual and five-year inspection, servicing, and maintenance of LSA, including lifeboats, davits, and fast rescue crafts across Valaris’ global fleet of 11 drill ships, 5 semi-submersibles and 36 jack-up rigs.
“This significant development is indicative of the global energy sector’s preference for a company capable of servicing third-party, multi-brand safety and survival equipment through a single point of contact,” said Jim Cook, Head of Business Development – Energy, Survitec.
“We are seeing a marked increase in operators looking for more customer-centric service arrangements, so we are obviously delighted that Valaris – the world’s largest offshore drilling company – has renewed. It shows Survitec is the valued and trusted partner to the offshore oil and gas industry,“ said Cook.
Survitec’s ‘single point of contact’ business model essentially rolls four functions into one: technical services, customer services, operations and administration.
“Ultimately, offshore oil and gas operators benefit from a single service provider without the administrative burden and costs associated with contracting multiple service partners,” said Cook.
The agreement comes at a time when the energy market is experiencing a sudden rise in oil prices with demand far exceeding supply.
Jeff Walker, Sales Manager – Americas, Survitec, said: “With an increase in the number of projects coming on stream and vessels returning to service, offshore oil and gas operators do need to ensure their lifesaving appliances are regularly inspected, serviced and maintained, with up-to-date certificates.”
ClassNK issues AiP for dual fuel generator engine for 160,000m3 Liquefied Hydrogen Carrier
ClassNK has issued an Approval in Principle (AiP) for a dual fuel generator engine using hydrogen gas as fuel and related machinery systems and arrangements for a 160,000m3 liquefied hydrogen carrier developed by Kawasaki Heavy Industries, Ltd. (KHI). This marks ClassNK's first AiP for a dual fuel generator engine using hydrogen gas as fuel.
As hydrogen is expected to be used as a clean energy source to realize a decarbonised society, ClassNK has worked on the establishment of necessary standards and certification to contribute to its maritime transportation and marine fuel use. For the 160,000m3 liquefied hydrogen carrier developed by KHI, ClassNK has so far issued AiPs for its integrated design as well as its Cargo Containment System (CCS), Cargo Handling Systems (CHS), and dual fuel main boilers that use hydrogen boil-off gas as fuel.
In the latest examination, ClassNK carried out the design review of the dual fuel generator engines using hydrogen gas as fuel and related machinery systems and arrangements based on its Part N of Rules for the Survey and Construction of Steel Ships incorporating the IGC Code, and its Guidelines for Liquefied Hydrogen Carriers incorporating the IMO’s interim recommendations for Carriage of Liquefied Hydrogen in Bulk. In addition, a comprehensive safety assessment was conducted based on the HAZID risk assessment results, which has led to the issuance of the AiP.
According to KHI, the dual fuel generator engine is capable of switching between hydrogen and low-sulphur fuel oil flexibly, and when hydrogen fuel is selected, boil-off gas naturally evaporated from the ship's liquefied hydrogen cargo tanks is used as the main fuel at a calorie - based mixed ratio of 95% or higher to generate and supply electricity in board, which is expected to reduce greenhouse gas emissions from the ship significantly.
ClassNK will actively continue to take part in advanced initiatives toward decarbonisation and also support the decarbonisation of the entire maritime industry by incorporating the knowledge gained through collaboration with front runners into rules and guidelines.
Anemoi renews Rotor Sail testing base with Port of Blyth
Anemoi Marine Technologies have extended the lease for their land-based Rotor Sail test facility at the Port of Blyth following a period of growth for the business.
Anemoi is an award-winning global provider of proven wind technology for the shipping industry. For nearly 10 years Anemoi’s test facility has been based at the Port of Blyth, which is a leading offshore energy support base. The collaboration has been instrumental in bringing Anemoi Rotor Sail Technology to the market as the London-headquartered business takes huge strides towards future proofing the shipping industry. The location at the Port of Blyth obtains similar wind conditions to those experienced at sea, which allows Anemoi to test and research the performance of Rotor Sails in a safe and controlled environment. The facility, which houses a full-scale folding Rotor Sail, continues to play an important role in the development of Anemoi Rotor Sails.
Martin Lawlor, Chief Executive at the Port of Blyth, said: "It's fantastic that Anemoi will continue their operations here at the Port. Anemoi plays a key role in decarbonisation within the maritime industry and we are proud to facilitate forward-thinking companies who are creating a greener future. There is a growing cluster of pioneering businesses along the estuary that are leading the energy transition from Blyth."
Kim Diederichsen, Chief Executive at Anemoi, said: "We're delighted to be extending our lease at the Port of Blyth. Anemoi is going from strength to strength as Rotor Sails become an integral tool in the race to reduce global ship emissions. Anemoi are proud to invest in the United Kingdom and continue our close ties with such a significant Port."
Pole Star announces Robert Skea as new CEO
Maritime intelligence and technology provider Pole Star Space Applications has announced the appointment of Robert Skea as its new Chief Executive Officer. In his role, Skea will spearhead the company’s global expansion following last year’s successful growth investment.
Skea brings to Pole Star a proven track record of translating market insights into executable strategies and building profitable businesses within the analytics, fintech, and software industries. He specialises in turning complex technology and data into marketable products and driving Go-to-Market acceleration and growth. Prior to joining Pole Star, Skea was most recently Chief Executive Officer at Discovery Data, which was sold to ISS Governance in 2021. Prior to Discovery Data, Skea ran North America for Dun & Bradstreet from 2014 to 2019. Skea brings a wealth of experience at a pivotal point in the company’s development.
Skea succeeds Julian Longson, who was instrumental in building Pole Star’s business through the last phase to scale. Longson will move into a new role as an advisor focused on key corporate growth initiatives.
Commenting on Skea’s addition to the management team, Deepak Sindwani, Managing Partner at Wavecrest Growth Partners, which co-led the Company’s growth financing in 2021 said: “The maritime industry is ripe for change and disruption, and we’re excited to have Bob join Pole Star at a very exciting time for the business to help us drive accelerated growth and to extend our market leadership. Bob is a leader in bringing data and analytics products to market in simple, customer-centric approaches.”
Skea says, “I’m very excited to be brought into Pole Star at this time. The organisation has been a well-established market leader since 1998, and yet the opportunity to grow even further is tremendous. The critical impact that maritime channels have on the global supply chain has never been more important. I’m looking forward to collaborating with our senior management and global teams on how to advance our product offering and increase our presence in the global market. I’d like to thank Julian Longson, for his 7-year contribution as CEO and his 24 years with the company. “
Chairman of the Board, Michael Jankowski, says “We are pleased to welcome Bob to Pole Star and have him in the CEO role. He is a proven leader with a clear vision to expand the company’s success and take us into our next phase of growth and innovation.”
BCS Group - Boers Crew Services hosts dedicated workshop to help manning agencies
Manning agencies who are often faced with the challenges of going through the complex Schengen visa application process have received expert advice and knowledge thanks to a workshop held by BCS Group – Boers Crew Services following Crew Connect Global.
The Dutch crew specialist company held its own event last Friday (November 25), with selected manning agencies to offer support and expert knowledge covering the complex visa applications process.
More than 150 people attended the ‘Schengen state Visa for seafarer’ two-hour session, which covered lack of appointments, letter of invitation, complaints to the Embassy, and other issues that may arise when applying for a Schengen visa.
Delays with applying for visas can often lead to issues with crew supply and in recent months crew changes have even been cancelled because the visa applications have not been approved on time.
The event demonstrates Boers’ commitment to helping facilitate crew changes as quickly and efficiently as possible and keeping seafarers’ time in ports to a minimum.
Common questions raised during the workshop included: how to get an earlier appointment at the Visa Facilitation Service; where can I apply for Schengen state visa; what are the rules for tramping vessels; why do Schengen state countries have different rules; and is a visa on arrival still possible?
Hans Boers, Group Director and co-owner at Boers, said: “We held a fantastic event with more than 150 staff from manning agencies who attended to learn how to avoid long delays when applying for a Schengen visa.
“There are often many challenges and delays when applying for a Schengen visa and we believe having open communication with the different agencies involved, really helps streamline the whole process. It is often a challenge for companies to get documents in on time, which is a significant factor in delays.
"We are here 24/7 to solve any issues around applying for the visa and it is all about collaboration between crew supply companies, us, the seafarer, and their families.
“We felt it was important to hold this event because we can share our knowledge and warn people of the pitfalls that can end up causing delays. Crew changes have been cancelled due to seafarers not being granted their visas, so it really is a big issue that is having a real impact on the crew supply crisis. “
Group Director and co-owner Peter Smit was part of the Crew Supply Forum debate during Crew Connect Global where he discussed the importance of communication and collaboration between all the agencies involved in the visa application process.
Norra Skeppningsgruppen becomes GAC's second Swedish ship agency acquisition this year
Global shipping, logistics and marine services provider GAC Group has acquired Finland-based ESL Shipping's Swedish subsidiary Norra Skeppningsgruppen (NSG), marking the second Swedish ship agency purchase by GAC this year. The transfer of NSG to GAC Sweden was completed today 1 December.
Established in 2015 and a part of ESL Shipping since the autumn of 2019, NSG provides a range of ship agency services, as well as logistics and chartering services, to ship owners and operators in most ports in the southeast of Sweden. Its main office in Oxelösund, where GAC Sweden has had a presence since its acquisition of SwedAgency AB in August 2019, handles about 200 port calls a year, with a further 150 at other ports in the region, including Åhus, Luleå, Norrköping, Södertälje and Ystad. Under the deal, the staff of NSG will transfer to GAC Sweden.
“We are pleased to welcome NSG to GAC Sweden,” says Johan Ehn, Managing Director of GAC Sweden. “This latest addition, following the acquisition of Hasting Ship Services AB in October, represents the latest step in our sustainable growth strategy, especially in the dry bulk sector. Together with our new colleagues, we will continue to strengthen our organisation, working even more closely with our customers in the region.”
“ESL Shipping has been working with GAC in Finland for many years, and we are pleased that we have found a good and experienced owner for the NSG business,” says Mikki Koskinen, Managing Director of ESL Shipping. “The sale of NSG will enable ESL Shipping to focus on its core operations as the leading carrier of dry bulk cargoes in the Baltic Sea region. I want to take this opportunity to thank all NSG employees for their dedication and commitment.”
GAC Sweden specialises in ship agency and freight forwarding services, with a particular focus on the energy sector and, increasingly in recent years, renewable energy.
The acquisition of NSG will further support GAC Sweden’s comprehensive range of ship agency, logistics and marine services for all kinds of vessels, from cruise liners and FPSOs to roll-on/roll-off vehicle carriers.
Cyprus Shipping Chamber welcomes the provisional agreement on EU emissions trading for shipping
The Cyprus Shipping Chamber welcomes the outcome of the trilogue negotiation, on 29 November 2022, on the inclusion of the shipping sector in the EU ETS (emissions Trading System). It says that it is pleased to note that the EU institutions have embraced a number of positions promoted by the shipping industry, which will assist in the shipping’s decarbonisation through a more pragmatic and realistic implementation of the EU ETS for shipping.
The Chamber particularly welcomes the agreement on mandatory dedicated calls for maritime under the Innovation Fund and the earmarking of at least 20 million ETS allowances for maritime under the ETS Innovation Fund up to 2030. The 20 million ETS allowances under the current prices correspond to around 1.5 billion euro. Dedicated support to shipping through the Innovation Fund is key to bridging the price gap with clean fuels, improving the energy efficiency of ships, fostering innovation and building the infrastructure in ports.
The shipping industry will not be able to tackle the major task of decarbonisation alone. All stakeholders must be on board. The Chamber therefore also welcomes the recognition of the ‘polluter-pays principle’ through mandatory requirements for the pass-through of the EU ETS costs to the commercial operators of the vessels.
The phase-in period and the gradual inclusion of emissions from shipping over a three-year period from 2024-2026 is also important to ensure a smooth transition for the sector.
On the Scope of the EU ETS, the Chamber always advocated that that vessels below 5000gt should also contribute in the decarbonisation effort of our industry and thus welcomes the fact that from 2025, general cargo ships and offshore vessels between 400gt and 5000gt will be covered by the EU MRV and by end of 2026, the Commission will present a report on the possibility to include them in the EU ETS.
The Chamber considers that the derogation for voyages performed in the framework of a transnational public service contract or a transnational public service obligation is a positive development for Cyprus, being an island away from mainland Europe without a land connection.
The Chamber’s strong belief of course is that an international market-based measure within the framework of the IMO would be more effective and therefore considers that the inclusion of a clause asking the Commission within 18 months after the adoption of an IMO measure and before it becomes operational, to present a report examining the global market-based measure and the coherence between the EU ETS and the IMO measure, is crucial.
The trilogue agreement on shipping will be subject to an overall agreement for all ETS sectors, expected to be achieved in the last trilogue meeting on 15-16 December 2022.
Accelleron launches new all-inclusive service agreement for auxiliary engine turbochargers
Accelleron has launched an all-inclusive service agreement for auxiliary engine turbochargers that streamlines maintenance procedures and eliminates unexpected costs. Turbo AuxiliaryCare provides ship owners and ship managers with peace of mind that vessels can undergo necessary auxiliary engine turbocharger maintenance as and when required, with minimal administrative burden, at a fixed price.
By providing event-based maintenance, inclusive of all spare parts, labor, and transport Turbo AuxiliaryCare customers gain full financial predictability, enabling them to accurately plan for future servicing without unexpected costs. In addition, the Turbo AuxiliaryCare service agreement is flexible with respect to the covered equipment. When the customer’s fleet of vessels changes, the coverage of Turbo AuxiliaryCare can be adapted accordingly, providing further peace of mind.
Turbo AuxiliaryCare customers enjoy exclusive access to Accelleron’s pool of exchange turbocharger units, which are delivered to a vessel prior to a required maintenance taking place. This allows the crew to swap units that need to be serviced as and when required, even while sailing or bunkering. Exchange units in need of servicing are then sent to the Accelleron service hub for overhaul and storage until their next use. As a result, engine downtime due to turbocharger service is kept to the absolute minimum while, at the same time, customers are no longer required to invest in exchange units themselves.
The Turbo AuxiliaryCare service agreement significantly reduces the administrative burden. The procurement process is largely simplified by removing multiple purchase orders, contracts, and invoices usually encountered when coordinating maintenance jobs for a moving, global fleet. This is achieved through Turbo AuxiliaryCare customers having a single point of contact at Accelleron who coordinate all maintenance activities, with only one purchase order and invoice issued for each servicing event.
Dr. Thorsten Bosse, Head of Global Service Product Management at Accelleron, said: “Making it easy and reliable for our customers to do business with us is our number one priority at Accelleron. With Turbo AuxiliaryCare we make financial planning simple by offering a fixed-price service and we ensure there are no surprises or budget overruns. By making use of a pool of turbocharger exchange units tailored to our customer’s needs, we provide those exchange units right on board the vessel when they are needed.
“The swapping can be done by the crew, it’s easy and fast. Alternatively, based on our customer's preference, we will send our service engineers on board to do the exchange. In any case, Turbo AuxiliaryCare helps to keep engine downtime to an absolute minimum with easy turbocharger service planning and full financial control for the customer.”
e1 Marine and NAVTEK sign collaborative agreement to scale availability of hydrogen powered car carriers and tugboats
Global renewable energy company e1 Marine has signed a Memorandum of Understanding with naval design and engineering specialists, NAVTEK, to collaboratively develop hydrogen-powered low-carbon emission marine vessels and port applications for the European market. This includes incorporating e1 Marine’s methanol-to-hydrogen generator technology with PEM fuel cell power solutions on NAVTEK-identified marine applications.
The initial project will be to develop a 120-160-meter hydrogen-powered car carrier design that requires 8-10 M.W. of propulsion power, with the focus then shifting to a methanol fuel cell powered hybrid tugboat design.
As part of the agreement, which was finalised at The International Workboat Show in New Orleans, USA on November 30th, NAVTEK will be responsible for the naval architecture and overall vessel design, as well as the supply of electrical propulsion system design. NAVTEK will also manage the power system and controls integration, and the ship assembly and construction. e1 Marine will supply its methanol-to-hydrogen reformers to the vessels and provide best practices on system integration.
NAVTEK is a naval architecture firm with a focus on innovative design for the decarbonization of the tugs, pilot boats, tankers, carriers, and ports sectors. The firm is part of Kiran Holdings, a maritime organization with naval architecture, shipyard, system integration, and vessel operation capabilities.
e1 Marine’s technology offers a unique solution for decarbonization, adding to a limited selection of methanol-enabling technologies within the industry. The organisation, which is wholly and equally owned by the triumvirate of Element 1, Ardmore Shipping Corporation, and Maritime Partners, has a deep knowledge of methanol, hydrogen, and fuel cell technology, with insight and experience of both the inland waterways market and international shipping.
Commenting on the MOU, Ferhat Acuner (pictured, right), General Manager and Board Member at NAVTEK said:“NAVTEK is spearheading innovation to create the next generation of vessel designs that can seamlessly reduce total emissions. Our agreement with e1 Marine is the latest in a series of collaborations that brings together specialist technologies and expertise to meet the diverse needs of fleets and port operations in their journeys to reach a zero emissions future.”
Robert Schluter (left), Managing Director at e1 Marine added: “e1 Marine is committed to ensuring that safe, efficient, and affordable hydrogen is available at scale for the shipping industry. Collaboration is a key component in the decarbonization of the sector, and this partnership with NAVTEK will enable us to combine our expertise and open up opportunities for car carriers and tow boats to accelerate the decarbonization process.”
e1 Marine’s system produces zero particulates, zero NOx, zero SOx, and less CO2 than a diesel generator. The hydrogen that e1 Marine’s methanol-to-hydrogen generator produces also meets ISO14687 (2019) purity specifications for all PEMFC applications.
IUMI Stats Report presents another positive year for marine insurers
The International Union of Marine Insurance (IUMI) has released its 2022 global marine insurance market analysis – known as the IUMI Stats Report.
The report details that 2021 saw a robust macroeconomic recovery, but in 2022 worries about inflation and recession are gathering. The International Monetary Fund (IMF) has lowered (Oct 2022) its global growth projection to 2.7%.
Commenting on this year’s report, IUMI Secretary General Lars Lange (pictured) said: “We are reporting this data at a time when several shocks have hit a world economy already weakened by the pandemic. Indicators in many economies now point to an extended period of subdued growth. Marine underwriters are navigating some highly complex issues.
“Building on the gains made in 2020, 2021 was another positive year for marine insurers. It was the year when global trade saw a tentative recovery, absolute premiums rose, claims impact was benign, and, as a result, loss ratios improved. However, this position is tempered by the significant economic uncertainties the world is facing today.”
The report presents various statistical data from multiple sources, including IUMI’s data, to provide insight into the marine insurance market within the context of global trade and shipping. Also, for the third year, IUMI Stats contains analysis from its major claims database, which now comprises 11,000 claims records amounting to USD 17.3 billion of major losses.
Hights of the report include as follows:
Global marine insurance premiums in 2021 reached USD 33 billion, up 6.4% on 2020. Premiums have been lifted by increased global trade volumes, a stronger US dollar, increased offshore activity, higher vessel values and a reaction to deteriorating results in previous years. Insurers in Europe and Asia, in particular, saw premium growth.
The positive trend for the ocean hull business, starting in 2021, continued into 2022. Premiums grew 4.1% in 2021, reaching USD 7.8 billion. There was continued rapid growth in the Nordic region and China, but much weaker in the UK (Lloyd’s) market, where the decline of recent years continued. The extraordinarily benign claims impacted both the frequency and the cost in recent years and could achieve the recovery of previous years’ adverse results.
The cargo market saw an increase in premiums for 2021 to USD 18.9 billion, driven by increased global trade volumes. Also, in this segment, claims impact was comparably benign in 2021 and loss ratios in most markets improved.
The offshore energy sector saw an increase in overall premiums, reaching USD 3.9 billion in 2021, representing a 6.9% increase in 2020. This is the second year of rise after six years of decline (2014 to 2019). The demand for offshore energy insurance typically tracks oil prices as projects become viable. Historically, there is an 18-month time lag between improved oil prices, authorised offshore expenditure, and unit reactivation. Loss ratios kept in recent years a fragile balance with significant loss events being absent, but with a long backlog in claims reporting, the youngest years still have to mature. With the oil price rally in 2022, more activity and, thus, demand for offshore energy insurance may be expected.
The full report is available to download from the IUMI website.
‘Diversity and Inclusion Toolkit for Shipping’ now available to pre-order
The International Chamber of Shipping (ICS) is pleased to announce the release of the first edition of an important new title - Diversity and Inclusion Toolkit for Shipping.
An essential new guide, the publication has been developed to create awareness and inspire change in the strategies, policies and practices that will enable the maritime industry to meet the needs of the diverse seafarer community.
“A diverse workforce can be a company's strongest asset,” says the I in its announcement that the publication is available to pre-order.
Diversity and Inclusion Toolkit for Shipping provides descriptions and definitions; provides ways to assess the current needs of diverse communities and identify gaps in services, policies and practice; and makes suggestions on how to fill these gaps.
The toolkit is designed to help companies:
• Enhance existing diversity assessments and increase awareness of diversity issues and needs;
• Embed the principle of diversity throughout their service and influence strategic planning at all levels;
• Develop good practice;
• Meet legislative requirements;
• Assess current performance, to identify any barriers preventing progress and to provide advice and guidance on how to overcome these; and
• Enhance monitoring and data collection mechanisms to highlight the needs of different communities.
Order your copy of the book today. The Diversity and Inclusion Toolkit for Shipping is available in both print and ebook versions and is priced at £140. It will be officially launched in January 2023.
ICS signs milestone MOU with Emirates Shipping Association
The International Chamber of Shipping (ICS) has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with the Emirates Shipping Association for increased cooperation and collaboration towards the UNFCCC Climate Conference COP28 and beyond.
This landmark signing took place at the International Maritime Organization’s (IMO) headquarters in London today, at an event hosted by the UAE government, with Captain Abdulkareem Almessabi, Chairman of the Emirates Shipping Association, and ICS Secretary General Guy Platten. United Arab Emirates’ Minister of Energy and Infrastructure His Excellency Suhail Mohamed Al Mazrouei and IMO Secretary General Kitack Lim were also in attendance.
Following the success of the Shaping the Future of Shipping conference at COP26 in Glasgow, United Kingdom, and the increase profile of shipping at COP27 in Sharm El-Sheik, Egypt, ICS and the Emirates Shipping Association recognised the importance of COP28 and the role of shipping in the global energy transition. COP28 will be hosted in the UAE next year and the two organisations formed this milestone agreement to work with government of the UAE collaboratively in the lead up to the UNFCCC Climate Conference.
Capt. Abdulkareem Almessabi, Chairman of the Emirates Shipping Association, commented: “Emirates Shipping Association is pleased to strengthen the relationship with International Chamber of Shipping through this MOU, as we hope to take a step closer in preparing and navigating the shipping industry in the UAE towards a responsible energy landscape. Sustainability is one of the important pillars of the association and we do look forward to engaging with the private sector and building their capacity to enable transition. Our collaboration with ICS and Ministry of Energy and Infrastructure (MOEI) at COP 28 will mark an impact within the maritime industry.”
ICS Secretary General, Guy Platten, added: “The UAE has a strong maritime background and continues to be a critical hub for the global shipping industry. The country has an ambitious approach to the industry’s energy transition. The next few years will be critical and shipping will play a fundamental role in delivering low carbon fuels globally, acting as an enabler for governments and industries to achieve their climate targets. We look forward to working with the Emirates Shipping Association on this in the lead up to UNFCCC Climate Conference COP28 and beyond.
“Time and time again the UAE has shown its leadership in maritime issues and was in fact one of the first governments to sign up to work on the Clean Energy Marine Hubs initiative (CEM-Hubs). With His Excellency Minister Al Mazrouei at the helm for the UAE’s energy transition and working collaboratively with the Emirates Shipping Association we believe that this will be a positive and successful partnership for the industry overall”.
The CEM-Hubs initiative, which is co-led by a taskforce of CEOs, is a cross-sectoral public-private initiative aiming to accelerate the production, export and import of low-carbon fuels across the world. The initiative is co-ordinated with the support of the ICS and the International Association of Ports and Harbours (IAPH), and the Clean Energy Ministerial (CEM).
The Emirates Shipping Association was founded in 2004 and officially incorporated in 2005 to promote and protect the interests of shipowners and the shipping community of the UAE. The association became a full member of the ICS in September 2019.
West strengthens Member support in Asia through two new senior promotions
West P&I Club has announced the promotions of David Griffiths and Xuanlun (XL) Cai. David has become the Regional Head of Underwriting, Singapore, and Xuanlun is now Regional Head of Underwriting, Hong Kong.
These new appointments will strengthen two of the Club’s key regional offices, building on the strong relationships and reputation that West enjoys in Asia. This will subsequently complement the exceptional support that West provides to Members across the world.
Both David and XL have had great success as senior underwriters, and these promotions highlight the Club’s commitment to supporting promising and dynamic colleagues throughout their careers and into prominent positions at West.
“Since joining West, XL and David have excelled in their respective roles,” said Tom Bowsher, Group CEO of West P&I. “These promotions reflect David and XL’s hard work in their respective regions over many years and we are delighted to see them advance to these senior positions.”
After studying economics at University, David initially worked in West’s Hong Kong office for five years before helping establish West’s Singapore office in 2017. In his previous role, David had underwriting responsibility for a number of the Club's Members across Singapore, South Korea, Thailand, Taiwan, Hong Kong and Southeast Asia.
XL graduated in law from Shanghai Maritime University and spent several years practising law in mainland China. After gaining an MA in Law at Bristol he joined West’s Hong Kong office in 2013, where he handled P&I and FD&D claims. XL also was admitted as a solicitor in HK. He transferred from Claims to the Underwriting team 6 years ago and since then has had increasing responsibility for the underwriting of the Club’s Chinese Members.
Both their duties included writing the full range of products on offer at West, including covers for Mutual P&I, Fixed P&I, Charterers and Traders, FD&D, and Extended Liabilities, as well as promoting the products and services offered by West’s partners Nordic, Astaara and Qwest.
Global energy major joins The Castor Initiative
The Castor Initiative has announced that global energy major TotalEnergies has become the eighth partner to the global coalition that is committed to make zero emission shipping a reality.
The global coalition, which includes MISC Berhad (MISC), Lloyd’s Register (LR), Samsung Heavy Industries (SHI), MAN Energy Solutions (MAN), the Maritime and Port Authority of Singapore (MPA), Yara Clean Ammonia (Yara) and Jurong Port, was established in January 2020 and its most recent project milestone was the April 2022 memorandum of understanding for a pair of zero emission deepsea tankers vessels.
With TotalEnergies as the Castor Initiative’s latest partner, the multinational coalition has added to its diverse circle of maritime expertise to ensure and support the complete ecosystem required for ammonia-fuelled tankers to operate sustainably and safely. As a leading energy major on a global scale, and its commitment to sustainability, TotalEnergies brings its extensive operational experience to this global alliance to support the maritime industry’s drive to decarbonisation. The experience and expertise of each Castor Initiative partner will be central to the success of the initiative, from conception to project realization.
Jérôme Cousin, Senior Vice President Shipping, TotalEnergies said: “Among various decarbonized marine fuel alternatives, Ammonia could rapidly become a viable solution in the maritime sector while challenges remain to be addressed, in particular on the safety aspects. We are therefore enthusiastic to join the Castor initiative, one of the most comprehensive and ambitious project dealing with ammonia as a fuel today. As a multi-energy company committed to the energy transition, TotalEnergies will strive to bring its charterer perspective in this consortium of highly reputable industry players.”
MISC President and Group CEO, Captain Rajalingam Subramaniam said: “Thank you TotalEnergies for this great leadership and collaboration towards achieving a common industry goal in shaping another decarbonisation pathway for the maritime industry, in a safe and efficient manner. I would also like to thank all the partners of The Castor Initiative for their steadfast commitment towards this global coalition. We have much to do to realise this mission, but today, we reached another milestone in our journey with TotalEnergies joining this global coalition, which is a huge recognition of the whole-of-society approach principle, on which we anchor our purpose of bringing zero emissions in shipping closer to reality.”
LR Chief Executive Officer Nick Brown, said: “Efforts to decarbonise the maritime sector are forging ahead and collaboration among the Castor Initiative partners on ammonia-fuelled tonnage continues apace. We are delighted that TotalEnergies has joined our development project as its considerable industry experience and expertise will help to accelerate the partnerships’ goal of delivering safe zero-emission shipping in the middle of this decade.”
Brian Østergaard Sørensen, Vice President, Head of Research and Development, Two-Stroke, MAN Energy Solutions, said: “MAN Energy Solutions welcomes TotalEnergies to the Castor Initiative. This coming together of such a broad variety of industry partners – each with their own expertise – can only be of great, mutual benefit as we advance the case for green ammonia as a sustainable fuel for maritime shipping on this path to decarbonisation.”
SHI President and CEO Mr JinTaek Jung said: We are very delighted to have TotalEnergies join the Castor Initiative. We believe that TotalEnergies's diverse expertise in the energy and maritime shipping sector will be another enabling factor to the successful development of the ammonia-fuelled deep-sea tanker. We look forward to working with our new partner in this inspiring collective collaboration.
Murali Srinivasan, SVP and Commercial Head of Yara Clean Ammonia said:
“The clock is ticking for the decarbonization of the maritime sector. Within the Castor Initiative all partners in the value chain have made a significant commitment towards decarbonization and have been collaborating actively to achieve that goal. We are excited to welcome TotalEnergies to the initiative and look forward to jointly advancing ammonia as a credible and safe zero-carbon maritime fuel. TotalEnergies entering the existing partnership will create an acceleration of the consortium’s efforts toward the common goal of delivering zero-emission deep sea tankers in the near future.”
MPA welcomes TotalEnergies’ participation to the Castor Initiative. The decarbonisation of the fleet and development of green ammonia supply chain and other hydrogen carriers to meet IMO targets will require the commitment of diverse stakeholders across the entire value chain. As the world’s top bunkering hub, Singapore will work closely with the industry to bring in green marine fuel supply chain, through consortiums such as the Castor Initiative and the green and digital shipping corridors, to enable the energy transition.” said Kenneth Lim, Assistant Chief Executive (Industry & Transformation), MPA.
Jurong Port Chief Executive Officer, Terence Seow: “Jurong Port looks forward to TotalEnergies’ participation and contribution to complete the supply chain solution needed for ammonia-fuelled tankers to operate safely and sustainably. The consortium will be able to leverage on TotalEnergies’ technical capabilities & operational experience. To support the adoption of zero emission vessels, Jurong Port will work closely with the partners of The Castor Initiative to develop a robust and sustainable ammonia bunkering supply chain in Singapore.”
To meet the International Maritime Organization’s (IMO) 2050 ambitions on halving greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions from 2008 levels, zero-carbon vessels need to enter the world fleet by 2030. This Joint Development Project has been motivated by the partners’ shared belief that the maritime industry needs leadership and greater collaboration if shipping is to meet the IMO’s GHG ambitions.
While ammonia is one of the fuels being considered by maritime stakeholders, the partners also recognise that the shipping industry will need to explore multiple decarbonisation pathways and hope their collaboration will spur others in the maritime industry to work collectively on addressing this global challenge.
MacGregor introduces electric transloading crane to complete electric crane series
As part of its mission to support customers with more sustainable products and solutions, MacGregor is proud to introduce the fully electrically driven heavy-duty transloading crane, with the type name ‘TCE’.
The new heavy-duty transloading crane is a result of combining decades of extensive customer experience in transloading operations. The crane is based on the latest generation of the electric drive system with experience of more than 580 electric cranes delivered since 2007.
Launching the new TCE crane finally closes the gap in MacGregor´s electric crane portfolio, and enables offering the most efficient cranes up to SWL 50t in this demanding segment.
Lower emissions, increased safety and efficiency
Transloading cranes are usually used for heavy-duty work in areas with draft restrictions or limited infrastructure. Consequently, the cranes typically run 24/7 to ensure the most efficient handling of bulk material worldwide.
By electrifying the drive system, MacGregor’s new TCE crane brings efficiency to the next level. In combination with an energy storage system, to get the maximum benefit from the regenerated power, the crane consumes approximately 60% less energy, compared to a hydraulic drive system. As a result, the CO2 emissions will be reduced by more than 5,500t within a typical lifecycle of a hydraulic crane. The amount of reduced emissions is comparable to 1,200 gasoline cars driving 20,000 km per year.
£10m to support seafarers in crisis
The Seafarers’ Charity has announced that an incredible £10 million has been awarded by the Charity to support the safety and welfare of seafarers over the past three years. An unprecedented period which has seen seafarers’ welfare severely impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic, a war in Ukraine and also the cost-of-living crisis. As a long term and substantial supporter of seafarers’ welfare, The Seafarers’ Charity has considerably stepped up its financial support for maritime welfare during this extremely difficult period for seafarers and their families.
Most recently in 2022, The Seafarers’ Charity has awarded over £3 million to support maritime welfare and safety for both UK and international seafarers. This £3m package of support is for everyone who works at sea, whether that be in global shipping, international ferries, UK fishing or the professional yacht industry. Highlights include:
· Funding the essential work of 61 charities and not for profit organisations to deliver a range of welfare support for seafarers – including practical assistance within port, telephone advice, emotional support and hardship grants.
· Supporting working seafarers and those who have retired through services aimed at reducing loneliness and preventing isolation.
· Funding initiatives and services throughout the UK from the Isle of Wight to remote Scottish Islands and internationally in the Philippines, India, Ukraine, the United Arab Emirates and within African ports too.
· Developing and leading several substantial projects to improve safety in the UK fishing fleet.
The substantial impact of the Charity’s funding is documented in a recently released Impact Report.
The Seafarers’ Charity has been committed to supporting seafarers' safety and welfare for 105 years - ever since it was first established by King George V in 1917. Over the last 10 years alone, The Seafarers’ Charity has pumped an incredible total of £28 million into supporting seafarers’ welfare, with £10m awarded in the most recent 3 years of crisis – demonstrating the increased needs of seafarers at this time. As well as the Charity’s responsiveness and generosity in financially supporting maritime welfare charities to innovate and respond.
First MSC Air Cargo aircraft delivered
MSC has taken the next step in developing its Air Cargo solution with the delivery last week of the first MSC-branded aircraft, built by Boeing and operated by Atlas Air. The B777-200 Freighter will fly on routes between China, the US, Mexico and Europe.
Jannie Davel, Senior Vice President Air Cargo at MSC, said: “Our customers need the option of air solutions, which is why we’re integrating this transportation mode to complement our extensive maritime and land cargo operations. The delivery of this first aircraft marks the start of our long-term investment in air cargo.”
Jannie Davel brings extensive air cargo experience, having worked in the sector for many years, most recently heading Delta’s commercial cargo operations, before joining MSC in 2022.
He said: “Since I started at MSC, I have spoken to numerous partners and customers right across the market and it is very clear that air cargo can enable a range of companies to meet their logistics needs. Flying adds options, speed, flexibility and reliability to supply chain management, and there are particular benefits for moving perishables, such as fruit and vegetables, pharmaceutical and other healthcare products and high-value goods.
“We are delighted to see the first of our MSC-branded aircraft take to the skies and we believe that MSC Air Cargo is developing from a solid foundation thanks to the reliable, ongoing support from our operating partner Atlas Air.”
Atlas Air, a subsidiary of Atlas Air Worldwide Holdings, is supporting MSC on an aircraft, crew, maintenance and insurance (ACMI) basis. This aircraft is the first of four B777-200Fs in the pipeline, which are being placed on a long-term basis with MSC, providing dedicated capacity to support the ongoing development of the business.
The B777-200F twin-engine aircraft has been commended for its advanced fuel efficiency measures. It also has low maintenance and operating costs, and, with a range of 4,880 nautical miles (9,038 kilometres), it can fly further than any other aircraft in its class. It also meets quota count standards for maximum accessibility to noise sensitive airports around the globe.
Optimarin highlights how to navigate the challenges of BWTS retrofits
A ballast water treatment system (BWTS) retrofit is not plain sailing. And proper planning with a trusted and reliable supplier onboard is essential to navigate technical, logistical and regulatory hurdles to achieve compliance, says Optimarin.
As well as detailed planning, drydock capacity must usually be secured ahead of time for a BWTS retrofit that typically has an engineering lead time of six months prior to installation. As an alternative, it is also possible to carry out the installation afloat if docking space is hard to come by. Several of Optimarin’s customers have already done installations while sailing, with great success.
The first stage is to determine the right BWTS based on several selection criteria, including the size and type of vessel, classification, sailing pattern, flag state and port authority requirements, followed by procurement of the system.
Then comes the planning stage that entails inspection and site engineering to look at structural, pipe, electrical and other elements, as well as carry out a 3D scan.
This stage also includes design engineering to transfer site data to a digital platform, arrangement of structural plans for piping and outfitting, a bill of material and pre-fabrication drawings, with class approval required for the design.
The final stage is installation and commissioning of the BWTS, followed by an initial survey of the operational system to verify compliance with class and regulatory requirements.
Commissioning testing of a newly installed BWTS, which includes sampling and analysis of ballast water, is also required by the IMO to validate that the system functions according to performance standards. Such testing is now mandatory for all ships as of 1 June this year.
This is necessary to gain an International Ballast Water Management Certificate that shows compliance with the IMO’s ballast water management convention set to enter into force in September 2024.
But there are also logistical challenges with BWTS installation partly due to supply chain disruption caused by the Covid-19 pandemic and geopolitical issues that has affected delivery of system components, microchips and parts such as piping and cables.
“There are multiple considerations for a shipowner seeking to install a compliant BWTS in terms of system selection, yard capacity and future reliability to cut maintenance costs in the long run,” says Optimarin chief executive Leiv Kallestad.
“Fast turnaround on installation is also a priority to minimize vessel downtime and disruption to revenue-generating operations.
“Therefore, it is in my view the most important job for the shipowner to secure the necessary competence and capacity to carry out fast and cost-effective retrofits of a proven and reliable BWTS within a tight timeframe.”
With its fast-track delivery model, Optimarin is able to deliver its flexible, modular BWTS in 6-10 weeks, and can access available drydock capacity at one of partner Newport Shipping’s global network of 15 affiliate yards.
The modular design of the system makes it highly adaptable for installation on different vessel types and deck configurations with limited space.
The company also has a strong track record of expertise in managing the entire process of BWTS installation from initial engineering to final commissioning, based on over 1000 system installations on all types of vessels to date, supported by a global aftersales network.
Furthermore, continuous product development has resulted in a more streamlined system with competitive pricing, while maintaining quality and robustness.
And the proven and reliable system can demonstrate documented compliance with the so-called D2 standard of viable organisms for ballast water discharges as stipulated by the IMO.
“Proactive and effective planning with a reliable BWTS supplier onboard can help the shipowner navigate the challenging route towards compliance to keep its fleet running efficiently in future,” Kallestad says.
Technomar partners with Ocean Technologies Group to deliver the next phase of its digital learning strategy
Technomar Shipping Inc, a leading Greek owned ship management company, has confirmed that it has signed an agreement that will provide its seafarers access to over 70 e-learning titles from Ocean Technologies Group (OTG).
The agreement includes a comprehensive portfolio of e-learning resources as diverse as personal safety, firefighting, cargo handling, ship handling & navigation, marine engineering, maintenance & repair, cyber security, mental health, maritime legislation and environmental protection. The agreement covers the entire Technomar fleet of 84 container and bulker ships.
The initial project began in 2020 with Technomar’s office team utilising OTG’s pre-employment assessment tests for the evaluation of new joiners. This was swiftly followed by an e-learning pilot conducted in 2021 onboard five vessels inducting and consulting with crew members in how to use and get the most out of the Ocean Learning Platform and its resource library. These pilot projects helped Technomar to identify the key training requirements for their crews so it could make that content available to them through OTG’s learning platform onboard and online.
Due to the success of both the office and onboard pilot projects, Technomar has decided to roll-out Ocean Learning Platform and its suite of e-learning titles to its entire fleet.
“We’re really happy with how the roll-out is progressing as our crew and office teams have access to the latest learning modules which they can access 24/7 anywhere in the world.” said Capt. Panagiotis Fasilis (pictured, left), Health Safety Quality and Environmental Manager for Technomar.
“The titles cover important mandatory STCW training courses which all crew members need to have studied before going aboard. There are also titles aimed at specific roles so that seafarers can ensure they are aware of the most up to date practices which will improve their key competencies and reduce incidents and accidents.”
“Winning this contract off the back of such successful trials is very satisfying,” said Ioannis Athanasopoulos (pictured, right), Managing Director for Ocean Technologies Group in Greece. “We have learned a lot from the two pilot projects and are grateful for all the feedback we have received from the staff at Technomar. Such positive collaboration set us up nicely for the piloting of future innovative developments such as our Adaptive Learning concept, that Technomar is keen to explore.”
Jamaica celebrates its role at the heart of maritime regulation as it launches its campaign for IMO re-election
Jamaica underscored the importance of being at the heart of international maritime regulation by holding a reception in London to launch its campaign for re-election to Category C of the Council of the International Maritime Organization (IMO) for the 2024-25 biennium.
As the largest English-speaking island State in the Caribbean, Jamaica has a long history of involvement in maritime affairs and in shipping, which plays an integral role in the socio-economic development of the country.
Hosting the event, Mrs Corah Ann Robertson Sylvester (pictured), chair of the Maritime Authority of Jamaica (MAJ) said: “Jamaica’s continued membership in Category ‘C’ of the IMO Council will continue to improve our country’s capacity, and that of the Caribbean region, to contribute to major policy decisions, rule-making and the development of standards at international level.”
Mrs Robertson Sylvester outlined how Jamaica's continuing membership on the Council will ensure the interests of the Member States of the Caribbean Community (CARICOM), as well as of the Small Island Developing States (SIDS) and Least Developing Countries (LDCs) continue to be adequately represented and defended within the IMO. “Climate change is of great concern for every State, and SIDs and LDCs suffer its impacts disproportionately. Jamaica supports the IMO and the global efforts to achieve zero greenhouse gas emissions from international shipping. We are involved in many initiatives including GloMEEP as a Lead Pilot Country to combat climate change by reducing emissions from international shipping, and we are tasked to transfer knowledge gained to the rest of the Caribbean and other SIDS.”
At the Global level, Jamaica’s Prime Minister, among 13 other world leaders, is a member of the High-Level Panel for a Sustainable Ocean Economy, as established by Norway’s Prime Minister. The 14 leaders of the Ocean Panel are committed to bringing a holistic approach to ocean management that balances protecting, production and prosperity to an area of the ocean the size of Africa.
A vigorous supporter of the IMO’s fight against climate change, consistent with the UN Sustainable Development Goal 13, Jamaica maintains that international shipping must be decarbonised by 2050, consistent with the Paris Climate Goals for emissions to reach net zero by 2050.
As a current member of the Council, Jamaica contributes actively to the work of the IMO, promoting adherence to international maritime standards and regulations. Jamaica keenly participates in the Council’s reform work including supporting the concept of a broader and more equitable representation geographically and the recognition of special status of SIDs and LDCs.
Jamaica plays a leadership role in the Caribbean in the areas of maritime administration, training and port related developments and through its participation in the work of the IMO. The MAJ’s Director General was Chair of the IMO’s Standards of Training and Watchkeeping Sub Committee for 10 years, while the Deputy Director General was also elected Chairman of the Sub Committee on Implementation of IMO Instruments (III) in 2018 and continues to serve in this capacity having been re-elected three times.
In addition, Jamaica continues to serve on the IMO’s panel of competent persons, established under the International Convention on Standards of Training, Certification and Watchkeeping for Seafarers (STCW), 1978 as amended. The country has demonstrated its commitment to the Voluntary IMO Audit Scheme (VIMSAS) and was audited in 2011. Jamaica also supported the implementation of the scheme through the provision of auditors and lead auditors for the conduct of audits of Member States and stands ready to assist other States in the region to prepare for audit under the IMO member State Audit Scheme (IMSAS).
Jamaica has a clear vested interest in port, flag and coastal State standards and has been actively supporting the work of the IMO in these areas for many years. Through both Government and also private sector initiatives, Jamaica has progressively developed its maritime infrastructure, which comprises container, cruise and bulk cargo ports. Jamaica’s maritime authority provides a fully functional maritime administration and ship registration, while the country’s other maritime activities include the training of seafarers and allied shipping personnel.
Jamaica has been producing officers for the global shipping industry since 1980. These officers are trained to international standard at the Caribbean Maritime University (CMU), and the country continues to fill the demand for the increased output of seafarers.
The Government of Jamaica has submitted its candidature for re-election to Category "C" of the Council of the International Maritime Organization (IMO), for the period 2024-2025, at elections to be held during the 33rd Regular Session of the IMO Assembly in November 2023 in London, United Kingdom.
Mrs Robertson Sylvester concluded: “It is important for Jamaica to be re-elected to the Council as a responsible maritime nation that represents the interests of Caribbean States, Small Island Developing States, and Least Developed Countries. We are fully committed to, and involved in, the work of the IMO.”
UK Club strengthens Hong Kong office with internal promotions
The UK P&I Club, one of the leading providers of P&I insurance and other services to the international shipping community, has announced that Amy Lovseth will assume the role of Syndicate Manager in its Hong Kong office following Seán Geraghty’s move to the Greece office earlier this autumn.
This announcement follows on from David Harley joining the team in the UK Club’s Hong Kong Office at the end of September. Amy and David Harley will share the role of P&I Regional Claims Director for Asia Pacific.
Amy moved to Hong Kong as a Senior Claims Director after fifteen years’ experience across the UK and US offices of the Club. Amy is a qualified US lawyer with extensive experience offering guidance to claims executives on large and complex claims, specialising in cargo, bills of lading and casualties.
David Harley joined the Club in September, having previously worked for the Britannia in Hong Kong. Most recently, David worked for another P&I Club, serving as Deputy Director and Head of the Hong Kong office since 2020. He has over twenty-five years of experience handling a wide range of P&I and FDD claims.
Philip Clacy, Chief Operating Officer, UK P&I Club, says: “We are pleased to announce Amy Lovseth’s new role as Syndicate Manager in the Hong Kong office. This is a well-deserved promotion. Amy has a wealth of experience across the Club and we have no doubt she will put this to good use in our Hong Kong office. Concurrently, we wish to congratulate Amy Lovseth and David Harley on their new joint role as Asia Pacific Regional Claims Director. We are confident the pair will use their extensive claims handling experience to the benefit of our Asia Pacific Members.”
Improvements in Philippines’ seafarer training promised at Crew Connect conference
A record number of more than 600 delegates, VIPs, speakers and exhibitors attended Crew Connect Global event at the Sofital Philippines Plaza Manila late last month - the first in-person edition of the annual event since 2019.
The conference was moderated by John Adams, MD of V.Ships UK, Chairman of Bahamas Shipowners’ Association and Vice-Chair at the International Chamber of Shipping (ICS), while Gerardo Borromeo (pictured), CEO of PTC Group, VP of the Filipino Shipowners’ Association and Vice Chair of the ICS, introduced a keynote address delivered by Jaime Jimenez Bautista, Secretary of the Department of Transportation of the Philippines.
Mr Bautista stated that the Maritime Industry Authority of the Philippines (MARINA) was “seriously addressing” failings in national seafarer training and certification identified by the latest European Maritime Safety Agency (EMSA) audit and by the IMO’s Independent Evaluation for the STCW (Standards of Training, Certification and Watchkeeping) ‘white list’. He said that “a barrage of corrective actions on various levels” was now underway “with the collaborative support of concerned government agencies” [sees also cover story in latest issue of SMI magazine].
Mr Bautista went on to describe how the Philippines had initiated a 10-point Maritime Industry Development Plan to serve as “our road map not just to strengthen the local maritime industry but also to entrench our rightful place in the global shipping industry. We plan to modernise our domestic shipping by creating new routes, expanding the merchant fleet and incentivising domestic operations to attract new players.”
He said the country was also looking at expensing its shipbuilding and repair activities, as well as building a marine industrial park to house such activities and further developing the country’s inland waterways for transport.
“seriously addressing “ the findings pledged that the government was committed to rectifying the deficiencies found both in and a recent
Addressing deficiencies in the Philippines’ training and certification.
CrewConnect celebrated a record attendance from the international crewing community.
Silverstream Technologies appoints Simon Helliwell as Chief People Officer amid global expansion
Air lubrication technology provider Silverstream Technologies has announced the appointment of Simon Helliwell (pictured) as Chief People Officer (CPO) to grow the company’s existing talent, bring in new team members, and support its global outreach. As Silverstream’s orderbook and personnel grows rapidly, he will also work to retain and develop the company’s unique culture.
In his former role at Elsevier, Simon held the position of Executive Vice President, Human Resources. Simon was responsible for the delivery of the full range of HR practices including Talent Acquisition, Talent Development, Rewards, Organisation Design and business partnering support.
Simon joins Silverstream at a time of fast exponential growth, now with over 90 staff and two offices in London and Shanghai. The company’s cumulative orderbook, comprising fleet orders with the likes of MSC, Carnival and Grimaldi, has now surpassed £120m, and Silverstream is also currently expanding its AI and data functions to maximise the efficiency of its market-leading air lubrication technology, the Silverstream® System.
Simon will bring strategic oversight and planning to the development of Silverstream’s diverse and passionate culture, helping to attract talent into the business from around the world. Honing a strong employee value proposition built on a sustainable, purpose-driven mission will empower Simon and his team to hire high calibre talent spanning experts in naval architecture, data science, operations & supply chain, and commercial roles.
Simon Helliwell, CPO, Silverstream Technologies, said: “This is an incredible opportunity to join a purpose-driven, fast growth business at a critical time in its development. Silverstream’s technology is proven and the market opportunity is gaining considerable momentum. We now need to scale the business carefully and sustainably to manage our exciting trajectory, while safeguarding our staff and ensuring their wellbeing above all else. In doing so, we will enable Silverstream to become a market leader for talent, as well as for innovation, in global shipping.”
Noah Silberschmidt, Founder & CEO, Silverstream Technologies, said: “At a time of remarkable growth for our business, Silverstream must nurture its brilliant team while also seeking out the very best new talent, from highly experienced professionals to new graduates. Simon’s track record in leading the HR functions of scale-up businesses as they transform into successful, data-led operations will ensure that Silverstream has the best possible environment and people to help us continue our amazing journey.”
Signs of progress on DEI in shipping, reports DSG Annual Review
The shipping industry is making progress on diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI), according to the results of the 2022 Annual Review from the Diversity Study Group. This progress is most evident in junior and mid-level ranks, helping to build a more diverse talent pool of future leaders, but diverse representation remains far more limited at C-suite level.
This is the third annual report from the Diversity Study Group (DSG), a membership organisation dedicated to fostering a more diverse, equitable and inclusive shipping and maritime sector.
The report is based on the responses from over 3,000 participants from a wide range of corporate members, including ship owners, operators and managers, class societies and marine services firms. It covers every part of the globe and a wide spectrum of respondents, in age, seniority, nationality, professional background and other characteristics.
However, the report shows that there is still a significant lack of ethnic diversity and female representation in senior roles, although representation at lower-level roles is improving. C-suite and Heads of Department roles are predominantly held by white respondents, with roughly a quarter of roles headed by those identifying as Asian.
Encouragingly, the report shows progress with women starting to break through in greater numbers below the C-suite level, where 17.9% of this year’s respondents are women. Women comprise 23.8% of Heads of Department, an increase from just 12.3% last year. This year, 38.3% of those at the Team Leader level are women, up from 29% last year. Finally, female representation at the Junior/Trainee level remains high at 56.7% and at 48% at the Midlevel position.
Heidi Heseltine, Founder of the Diversity Study Group, said: “This year’s results reveal some fascinating insights on the state of DEI in shipping. Whilst there is still a lack of diversity at the senior level, there are signs of a growing ‘waiting room’ of more diverse talent below the C-suite. The onus is on employers is to provide the development support and opportunities that help them to fulfil their potential, in order to see real diversity in leadership positions.”
Innovative maritime safety start-up Captain’s Eye arrives in Greece via Oriani Hellas
Oriani Hellas recently announced that it will be representing the Israel-headquartered, innovative start-up Captain’s Eye in Greece.
Captain’s Eye has developed a holistic system using Artificial Intelligence (AI) that provides real-time video analytics by detecting and immediately alerting on safety, operational and security incidents onboard. The AI integrated system can detect & therefore prevent a number of internal events and anomalies onboard such as leakages, smoke, fire, unresponsive crew and more.
Oriani's team of experienced maritime professionals actively take on the role of a Trusted Partner of the Greek Shipping Industry, by offering the most innovative and value-add maritime digital solutions to help the industry increase their operational efficiency with the help of technology.
"We are proud to promote a solution that is so focussed on increasing the safety of the crew on-board and the vessel itself,” says John Vandoros, Business Development Director of Oriani Hellas.
“While digital solutions, such as Captain’s Eye, have the potential to drastically improve operational efficiency while also providing a solid return on investment – we must never forget that it's the crew on-board who are the most valuable asset, and their safety must be paramount.”
Captain’s Eye will set a new on-board safety management standard for Greek Shipping Companies with its AI integrated system, through dramatically shortening the detection time of potentially hazardous events on board, preventing accidents & environmental pollution.
"We are excited and happy to offer our product to the Greek shipping market,” added Uri Ben Dor, CEO of Captain’s Eye.
“We are confident in our ability to give our customers great value by saving human lives, saving money and allowing our customers efficiency and savings in day-to-day operations.”
Secro receives green light from International Group for its E-bill of lading
The International Group of P&I Clubs (IG) has added Secro as an approved electronic bill of lading provider. Established in 2021, Secro is an independent technology company helping buyers and sellers of bulk commodities to digitise their core business workflows and optimize working capital.
Approval by the IG ensures that liabilities arising in respect to the carriage of cargo under such paperless trading are covered. The legal documentation and terms of use associated with the use and operation of Secro system, as well as the Secro electronic bill of lading, were reviewed and approved by the Group.
Secro, which is a member of BIMCO, provides a frictionless digital trade documentation platform that is safe, trustable and seamless. The customer is onboarded to the Secro platform with a nimble click-through process and can collaborate with its trading partners in minutes.
Internal due diligence is simplified by robust yet concise terms of use and conditions of carriage. Further, the Secro platform enables the customer to invite its trading partners on the platform, for free, just by sharing a secure link at any given stage of the transaction, allowing unprecedented flexibility.
Secro Co-Founder and CEO, Michele Sancricca stated: “Our customers asked us to build a platform to easily create securely exchanged electronic bills of lading with anyone in the world without the need for cumbersome private agreements. This innovative approach delivers the ease of adoption that legacy providers did not achieve.”
Truly viable electronic bills of lading, able to replace traditional paper-based documents, has been a chimera for decades. Thanks to Secro proprietary technology’s compliance with the latest digital trade laws, for the first time the adoption of electronic bills of lading really offers speed, security and cost savings.
“Secro E-bill of lading is only the first product we are launching in this arena. Customers will find in Secro a one-stop-shop to digitise their end-to-end trade workflows,” adds Sancricca.
At SHIPPINGInsight 2022, Secro received the organization’s Innovation Award by securing the most support from investors and shipowners in the event’s ‘Shark Tank’ (pictured).
Secro is currently available to selected customers with the public launch expected during Q1 2023.
Oldendorff Carriers invests in Alpha Ori Technologies
Oldendorff Carriers, one of the world’s leading dry bulk operators, has signed a deal that will see it invest in leading maritime digital solutions provider Alpha Ori Technologies (AOT). An Oldendorff Carriers’ representative will also join the AOT board.
AOT’s digital solutions are increasingly being adopted by leading maritime operators worldwide. This new investment will further accelerate its sales activities and product capabilities.
Peter Twiss (pictured), CEO of Oldendorff Carriers, said: “Oldendorff is pleased to be an investor in Alpha Ori Technologies. Having considered various cleantech, optimization and fuel savings products on the market, we believe AOT has the right mix of talent, technologies and futuristic vision to be a transformative force in shaping the future of the maritime industry.
“With this investment we not only want to support the digitaliSation and decarboniSation journey of our industry but also benefit from it directly.”
With a diverse range of products that includes SMARTShipTM, SMARTVoyager, ShipPalmTM and VIO, AOT is transforming the maritime industry by harnessing the power of real-time data, generating insights for faster decision-making, and helping customers achieve cost efficiencies and lower emissions.
Capt. Rajesh Unni, founder & Co-CEO of AOT and founder and CEO of the Synergy Group, commented: “Oldendorff’s investment is testament to management’s confidence in our vision, our state-of-the-art digital solutions and the cutting-edge technologies that AOT is using to transform the shipping industry.
‘Our digital solutions harness the power of data, shaping it into insights that enable our customers to make effective decisions in a timely manner. We are extremely proud of our association with Oldendorff and look forward to partnering in future-proofing its fleet.”
Panama presents candidature for IMO Secretary-General
With current IMO Secretary-General Kitack Lim beginning the final year of his second term in office, the Republic of Panama through the Panama Maritime Authority (AMP) has presented the candidature of Arsenio Dominguez to succeed him as head of the International Maritime Organization.
Mr Dominguez, is the first Panamanian and Latin American candidate for this position. A naval architect, he has been an alternate representative of Panama at the IMO from 2004 to 2014 when he was designated Panama’s Ambassador to the IMO and president of the MEPC until 2017 when he joined the International Maritime Organization as the Chief of Staff, later Administrative Division Director and to date Marine Environment Director.
Arsenio Dominguez’ campaign “Taking the lead, for a united and better future” aims at serving IMO “by putting people and the planet first.”
His dedication to the Organization is well known and he sees it as an “opportunity to capitalise” for the greater good for all and “will launch a new era for IMO, where we are seen as a source of ingenuity, the creators of productive resolutions and as a rewarding workplace where the best talent thrives.
“I believe that the IMO has incredible potential that extends beyond shipping, to the society. That’s why I am committed to fulfilling my mission and vision.”
Panama is proud to support Mr Dominguez’s mission and vision, that “we share as a country,” said Noriel Arauz, Panama Maritime Authority Administrator and Minister of Maritime Affairs. “We have and will always stand by the IMO and its work in benefit of shipping, the welfare of seafarers and the environment.”
Ground-breaking SAR technology set for commercialisation with £2.3m investment
Zelim, an Edinburgh based start-up pioneering unmanned search and rescue (SAR) solutions, including the world's first remotely operated rescue vessel, has secured £2.3m equity investment. Most of the funding comes from lead investor, Kero Development Partners and Aberdeen based I7V, who are following initial investment in Zelim’s seed round in 2020.
Zelim aims to make the ocean a safer place to work by improving the chances of finding and recovering people in distress whilst limiting the exposure to danger that rescuers face. The company recently launched its patented ‘Swift’ rescue conveyor and will release ‘Guardian’, the world’s first fast rescue craft, with the flexibility of both crewed and uncrewed operation modes, in 2023.
Zac Hall, Managing Director of Kero, said: “We are proud and excited to have led this latest financing round for Zelim. The products they are developing will change the face of offshore rescue - more lives will be saved and it will be quicker and safer for search and rescue services to perform their roles. Zelim is as perfect an example of a mission-focused team and business that you will see.”
Zelim has its sights set on revolutionising emergency response for the whole maritime sector but has focussed to date on the fast-growing offshore energy market to launch its technology. The company is also funded by the Offshore Wind Growth Partnership (OWGP), an industry backed programme supporting innovative UK supply chain companies.
Sam Mayall, CEO of Zelim, said: “We are delighted to welcome Kero as a new shareholder in the company. They are one of the few investors focused on technology hardware and have highly relevant experience to help us commercialise. We also welcome further investment from I7V, who have supported us over the last 18 months with their CEO, Doug Duguid, in post as Chairman of the Board. It has been an incredible journey so far for the team and 2023 is set to be an exciting year with Guardian leaving the yard in spring.”
Doug Duguid said: “I7V are very pleased with the progress that the Zelim team has made over the past 18 months in maturing the technology. We remain confident that the company is progressing towards a full commercial offering in the next 12 to 18 months and that confidence is reinforced by the support of the marine regulatory authorities and potential customers.”
In June 2022, Zelim conducted live demonstrations of its SAR technology to the UK and US Coastguard at Race Bank Offshore Wind Farm, off the coast of Norfolk in the UK. This latest investment round and continued support from the OWGP sees the company now primed for successful commercialisation.
VIKAND reflects on key seafarer issues discussed at CrewConnect Global
As a leading global healthcare specialist to the shipping industry, VIKAND’s attendance at CrewConnect Global was integral to the company’s strategy of raising awareness about comprehensive seafarer healthcare, mental health and well-being.
VIKAND’S proactive approach to offering a total healthcare solution to the maritime industry includes supplying suitable advice and guidance to seafarers to encourage them to make healthier meal choices and take up more active lifestyles to help lower their risk of developing common conditions such as diabetes and high blood pressure.
All VIKAND’s medical personnel have worked at sea so they understand the challenges faced by seafarers working long hours and being away from loved ones for extended periods. With this in mind the company has a 24/7 mental wellness hotline comprised of an onshore support team and medical psychologists standing by to help provide the support needed for seafarers to maintain a healthy mindset. This also makes commercial sense as it reduces the risk of onboard incidents and accidents which ultimately leads to safer, efficient and more profitable vessel operations.
Speaking on a panel at Crew Connect Global discussing how the industry can work towards “Normalizing A Healthy Approach to Mental Health and Work in The Maritime Industry,” Amy White, VIKAND’s Director of Medical Operations, said: “It is vital that we de-stigmatize mental health problems by educating crew that mental health issues can be dealt with early on and can be assisted whilst on board, depending on the situation and resources available. We must encourage a culture where seafarers are not afraid to speak up if they are suffering or if they recognize a colleague is having mental health issues.
“In addition to this, we strongly encourage that those repatriated for mental health issues should have a secondary review of their PEME to re-join their vessels once recovered as per the recommendations from IMO/ILO/MLC. Seafarers should be reviewed on a case-by-case basis rather than a one-size fits all approach.”
To demonstrate its commitment to the world’s largest supplier of seafarers, VIKAND opened an office in Manila back in May 2022 with a team of four. In a little over five months this has grown to nineteen personnel, such is the demand for crew mental and physical healthcare solutions in this strategically important region.
Speaking before the CrewConnect Global awards dinner, VIKAND’s SVP of Commercial Partnerships, Bo Larsen, said: “VIKAND is named after the Scandinavian expression “vi kan” or “ we can” as nothing will stop us from providing the best possible total healthcare solutions for our seafarers who have endured so much, particularly during the height of the global pandemic.
“A healthy crew will be more motivated and better equipped to perform their tasks in a safe and competent manner. Having access to good healthcare will also help to retain experienced crew members which is vitally important given the various industry predictions of a shortfall in seafarers in the coming years. Through industry collaboration we need to ensure that seafarers are provided with the best possible onboard medical, catering, and living conditions in recognition of the sacrifices they make to keep our global supply chains moving.”
Onboard Maritime to provide Clyde Marine Training with digital learning platform
Onboard Maritime (OM) has been appointed by the UK’s largest maritime training provider, Clyde Marine Training, to provide a digital training support platform to Officer Cadets when onboard vessels.
The digital learning platform provides Cadets with access to learning resources aligned to STCW (Standards of Training, Certification and Watchkeeping) training competencies, support and guidance for completion of their training record, as well as tutor-led micro-learning modules.
All aspects of the platform are designed to support cadets’ learning and maritime life and will complement existing academic support provided by colleges.
Angus Ferguson (pictured, left) , CEO and Founder of Onboard Maritime, said: “We’re delighted to be Clyde Marine Training’s provider for this digital cadet platform and have the opportunity to support cadets holistically and help them embark on amazing careers at sea.
“I created Onboard Maritime’s digital learning to help cadets complete their studies and achieve lasting maritime careers. Our tutor-led, online courses are completely flexible – providing additional accessible support when the cadets are undergoing the sea phases of their cadetships.”
Thomas Campbell (right), General Manager, Clyde Marine Training also commented on how the partnership will support the needs of cadets: “Clyde Marine Training are delighted to be working with Onboard Maritime in the delivery of the Cadet Development Programme.
“We believe in taking a proactive approach to support our cadets and their onboard training, and this programme is designed to bridge the gap between the learning the cadet does at college and the Training Record Book (TRB) tasks at sea. I feel this is an exciting, strategic partnership to support our cadets and create a full learning experience preparing them well for their career at sea.”
Airseas carries out successful sea trials of Seawing kite system
France-based wind propulsion leader Airseas has issued the first pictures and video footage of its automated kite system Seawing during the first phase of transatlantic trials which the company reports has been successfully completed..
The system is undergoing sea trials on the 154-metre RoRo vessel Ville de Bordeaux, which is operated by Louis Dreyfus Armateurs (LDA) and chartered by Airbus, Airseas' minority shareholder and launch customer, to transport aircraft components between Europe and the US. A team of Airseas engineers is on board to test the system and gather data, with the operational support of LDA’s crew and Airbus’ Transport & Logistics department.
Flying 200 meters above sea level, Seawing aims to slash fuel consumption and emissions by an average of 20%. Combining expertise from the aerospace and maritime sectors, the system will use digital twins and advanced automation systems to ensure that the system can be safely deployed, operated and stored at the push of a button with minimal input or training needed from crew. The solution can be installed on virtually any type of commercial vessel.
The first stages of the sea trials have successfully validated key steps such as the folding and unfolding of the wing, take-off and landing, and flights in altitude. The next phase will test the Seawing in a broader range of weather conditions and fine-tune the automation system.
In addition to the first system on the Ville de Bordeaux for Airbus, Airseas has also received firm orders from “K” Line for five Seawing systems, with additional options to equip up to 51 vessels in total.
Vincent Bernatets, CEO of Airseas, said: “Seeing the Seawing in action on a commercial vessel is such a proud moment for us, and the culmination of years of meticulous research and development. Testing a brand new technology in real-life conditions and while respecting the operational constraints of a commercial ship is an ambitious endeavour, and the solid progress of our sea trials is a testimony to the dedication of our team of engineers on board and on shore.”
Antoine Person, Corporate Secretary of LDA, commented: “We are committed to playing an active role in reducing shipping’s carbon emissions, starting now. We are proud to be associated with this project as a supplier and partner of Airbus, working for the success of this innovative wind propulsion solution alongside Airseas.”
FUJCON to make its physical return at Fujairah next March
The International Fujairah Bunkering & Fuel Oil Forum (FUJCON) returns for an in-person, 13th edition in Fujairah on March 13-15, 2023. This follows the 2021 virtual session and the last in-person session in 2019, prior to the Covid-19 pandemic.
The International Fujairah Bunkering & Fuel Oil Forum is now organised by S&P Global Commodity Insights and hosted by the Department of Industry & Economy, Government of Fujairah and the Port of Fujairah. FUJCON 2023 is held under the Patronage of His Highness Sheikh Hamad bin Mohammed Al Sharqi, Member of the UAE Supreme Council and Ruler of Fujairah. It is supported by the Fujairah Oil Industry Zone.
FUJCON 2023 is expected to attract participants from the Middle East, Asia, Africa, Europe and the Americas. They will include leading oil and bunker producers, traders, oil majors, national oil companies, shipowners and operators, managers, brokers, charterers, terminal operators, refiners, classification societies, shipping consultants and digital technologists, as well as banks and exchanges, legal firms, regulators, testing laboratories, renewable energy players, and other supply/service companies.
This year’s FUJCON 2023 theme is ‘The Maritime Energy Transition and Future Fuels’. The Forum will examine market developments and Fujairah’s future fuel options from the supply, operational, environmental and economic perspectives, as well as the possible technologies, investments, delivery infrastructure and industry collaboration needed to uncover new low-carbon maritime solutions and achieve sustainability goals.
Dr Mohammed Saeed Al Kindi, Chairman of the FUJCON Steering Committee, said: “Against the backdrop of Fujairah, which is recognised as a global hub for bunkering, oil storage, and crude and petroleum products supply, FUJCON 2023 will provide an exciting opportunity for key players in the bunkering and maritime industries to come together for both critical discussions and the Forum’s networking opportunities.
“We are delighted to be hosting FUJCON in-person once again, providing a meeting ground for the important dialogues, deliberations and discussions that have been a distinguishing feature of FUJCON since its inception, as well as the networking opportunities that have been its hallmark over the years”
Fujairah is experiencing the development of a number of major projects that will further strengthen its leading position as the Middle East’s largest storage & trading hub, significantly increase its dry-bulk footprint and enhance its maritime service offering. By the beginning of 2023, the port will commission its new dry-bulk export facility in Dibba, adding an initial 18 million tons of aggregate handling capacity.
Also expected in 2023 is the Etihad Rail project, which will connect Fujairah by rail with other key economic zones in the UAE for the movement of containers & general cargo. Last April, ADNOC announced its new, carbon-efficient Fujairah LNG plant moved to the design stage, with the project expected to produce 9.6 million tons per year of LNG to help meet the growing global demand for natural gas. The design stage is expected to be followed by the award of an engineering, procurement and construction contract in 2023.
Dave Ernsberger, Head of Market Reporting & Trading Solutions, S&P Global Commodity Insights, said: “Fujairah and the surrounding markets have continued to evolve and grow throughout the past few years, even as global markets have worked through their own transformations. FUJCON 2023 is an ideal moment for market participants from around the world to reconnect in the UAE and bring together updates on the latest developments in the local markets, with their experiences of change in the global space. This is the right time to organize and prepare for opportunities and challenges that the coming months and years will bring.”
Launch of Switch to Zero campaign to reduce shipping’s carbon emissions via ‘insetting’
Companies that import or export their freight by vessel generally have little influence on the container shipping company’s fuel choice. GoodShipping aims to change this with the ‘insetting’ concept. The Port of Rotterdam Authority and GoodShipping are conducting a joint campaign to inform companies of this concept so they can have part, or all of their sea freight transported via sustainable fuel.
The aim of the Switch to Zero campaign is to get some twenty sea freight shippers on board. Swinkels Family Brewers, known for brands including Bavaria and Cornet, and Dille & Kamille are the first to announce their participation in this campaign. They will have some or all of their containers shipped using sustainable fuel next year.
Insetting does not involve achieving carbon reductions through compensation (offsetting by planting trees, for example) but through shipping using sustainable fuel. Shippers often transport small numbers of containers on different vessels and can use insetting to purchase a certain amount of carbon reduction via GoodShipping. GoodShipping ensures that this is achieved by providing a vessel with sustainable fuel. This does not need to be the same vessel on which the containers are transported.
As part of their drive to promote CO2 savings in the logistics sector, GoodShipping and the Port of Rotterdam Authority aim to find some 20 new sea freight shipping companies that wish to use this service. The campaign makes it easy to get involved and make a concrete contribution to reducing carbon emissions. The aim is for joint vessel bunkering with these shippers to reduce the amount of carbon released into the atmosphere by 2023 tonnes. This is comparable to the amount of carbon released when transporting some 15,000 TEU containers between Rotterdam and Gothenburg.
Allard Castelein, Port of Rotterdam Authority CEO, said: ‘Shipping is not yet on schedule to be carbon neutral by 2050. We are working with partners to develop a range of initiatives to help make logistics more sustainable: from battery-powered inland shipping to shore power for sea-going vessels, and from bio-kerosene production for aviation to so-called Green Corridors for sea-going vessels.
“The 2023 tonne reduction through sustainable fuel use is just the start. We want to show that it can be done and start the discussion, with the aim of scaling up and reducing carbon emissions even further. The transition tempo needs to step up.
Dirk Kronemeijer, CEO GoodShipping, said: ‘We’ve seen a huge acceleration in the pace of the energy transition brought about by shippers over the past two years, which is why we want to give more companies the opportunity to have their freight shipped sustainably.
“The Port of Rotterdam Authority aims to be the world's most sustainable port and it was an obvious choice for GoodShipping to support that. With the Switch to Zero campaign, we’re making it easy for companies to enhance the sustainability of their transport without complex supply chain adaptations.’
Braemar recruits new tanker desk, opens Spanish office
Braemar Plc is pleased to announce that it has recruited a new tanker broking team, based in Madrid, Spain. The highly experienced team of 10 brokers is renowned within the international tanker market, and previously worked for Medco Shipbrokers SL. The team specialises in crude, dirty products, clean products, and period chartering.
The new desk’s offering and client base will complement those of Braemar’s existing tanker desks in London and Geneva, strengthen Braemar’s global coverage, and bring new commercial relationships to the Group.
The recruitment of the team has been actioned through the acquisition of a newly established Spanish company that has been formed to employ the brokers locally and which is wholly owned by Braemar.
Tris Simmonds, Braemar COO, said: “I am delighted to welcome the new Spanish tanker team to Braemar. They have an exceptional track record spanning over 30 years and bring with them a well-established customer base that will enhance our presence in the global tanker market.
“Expanding into new markets has always been part of our strategy, and the recruitment of this Madrid-based team is our next step in executing our growth plan.”
Lalo Pacheco, Spanish desk head, said: “We are delighted to join Braemar and look forward to working together to form a formidable partnership and to strengthen our service to our loyal clients. We are excited about the future and the potential to grow and develop as part of a powerful global team.”
Global Inertial Navigation System (INS) market to reach $14.8 billion by 2027
In the changed post COVID-19 business landscape, the global market for Inertial Navigation System (INS) estimated at US$10.8 Billion in the year 2020, is projected to reach a revised size of US$14.8 Billion by 2027, growing at a CAGR of 4.6% over the analysis period 2020-2027. Gyroscopes, one of the segments analyzed in the report, is projected to record a 5.2% CAGR and reach US$6.4 Billion by the end of the analysis period. Taking into account the ongoing post pandemic recovery, growth in the Accelerometers segment is readjusted to a revised 4.7% CAGR for the next 7-year period.
Find out more:
Inertial Navigation System (INS): Global Strategic Business Report
INTERCARGO statement on IMO decarbonisation ambitions, medium-term measures and Carbon Intensity Indicator
Dry bulk shipowners’ association INTERCARGO continues to fully support the ambition to achieve net zero emission shipping by 2050. It is important to stress, however, that this goal can only be achieved by providing the shipping industry with alternative zero carbon fuels.
The responsibility for decarbonisation cannot be placed solely on the shoulders of the ship operator at the end of the line – it is a challenge that must be dealt with holistically by the entire shipping industry, says INTERCARGO Chairman Dimitris Fafalios (pictured).
It is essential that appropriate policies are included in the Revision of the IMO GHG Strategy to ensure that green fuels are secured as well as the necessary infrastructure to ensure availability and bunkering in ports around the world, says INTERCARGO, but unfortunately, these aspects are not sufficiently discussed and addressed despite their critical role.
INTERCARGO’s position is that a combination of core elements of previous proposals on medium-term measures is the best way forward, and therefore welcomes the ICS revised proposal (paper ISWG-GHG 13/4/9).
Specifically, INTERCARGO believes that a flat rate contribution per tonne of CO2 emitted on a Tank-to-Wake (TtW) basis - and subject to the outcome of the ongoing discussions at IMO on fuel emissions’ Life-Cycle Assessment (LCA) - should be combined with an International Maritime Sustainability Funding and Reward (IMSF&R) mechanism where ships of 5,000 GT and above will make an annual contribution per tonne of CO2.
Under such a scheme only ships that use ‘eligible alternative fuels’ would receive a reward for CO2 emissions prevented.
A combination of technical and economic measures should be accompanied by appropriate policies and commitments from the Member States, in order for fuel suppliers to secure the required alternative fuels in ports around the world in sufficient quantities.
On CII (Carbon Intensity Indicator)
INTERCARGO believes that the current Carbon Intensity Indicator (CII) framework should not be used as a benchmark for IMO’s medium-term measures.
During the Association’s recent deliberations during its semi-annual meetings, INTERCARGO members expressed their belief that CII cannot be used to achieve the desired decarbonisation goals as under real life operating conditions it will not deliver equitable, transparent and non-distorting emissions’ reductions.
A number of factors can have a significant adverse impact on a vessel's CII rating, most of which are outside the vessel’s control. Examples include adverse weather, voyage distance, port waiting times, port infrastructure, and charterers orders. Paradoxically when considering voyage distances and port waiting times, vessels with longer travel distances can produce more emissions but have a better CII rating when compared to vessels travelling shorter distances and producing less emissions.
INTERCARGO does not therefore believe that CII, in the current format, would achieve the desired de-carbonisation goals or targets. While generally supportive of the operational short-term measure, there are significant flaws that need to be addressed in order to make CII fit for purpose.
Vanessa Howlison appointed to the Port of London Authority Board
Vanessa Howlison has been appointed a non-executive Board director of the Port of London Authority (PLA).
Currently chief financial officer at National Highways, a post she took up in June 2016, prior to which Vanessa was group finance director at the Department for Transport. She has previously been finance director for the Department of Energy and Climate Change, and Ofsted, and also brings experience and enthusiasm for carbon accounting, which is very relevant to our ambitions for Net Zero at the PLA.
Jonson Cox, chair of the PLA, said: “Vanessa will be a welcome new member of the Board, bringing highly relevant experience for the priorities on which we are focused. As an organisation our focus is on safety and delivering the Thames Vision. I expect Vanessa’s experience in infrastructure and the transition to Net Zero, within a complex and varied stakeholder environment, will prove especially valuable.”
Vanessa Howlison will join the PLA Board with effect from 1 January 2023 and will chair the audit and risk committee. She is a council member of the Accountancy body, Chartered Institute of Public Finance and Accountancy, and also sits on its Sustainability Panel.
PLA non-executive director, and audit committee chair, Judith Armitt will step down from the Board at the end of the year, having concluded two terms on the PLA Board.
“Judith been an invaluable member of the Board, chairing the audit committee and contributing actively to the evolution of the river development plan, Thames Vision 2050. We have also seen her active commitment to the Thames environment. She will leave with our thanks for all her contributions to the PLA,” concluded Jonson Cox.
ITIC reimburses ship agent member €30,000 following substantial pastry loss
ITIC has reimbursed a ship agent €30,000 after the member had to make a payment on behalf of the carrier for the latter’s liability to a consignee for the total loss of its pastry shipments which were transported at an incorrect temperature due to the agent’s mistake.
A 40ft reefer container carrying 12 tons of frozen pastry and baking dough in pallets was booked to be transported from Europe to the Middle East via the port of Antwerp. The cargo was loaded in the container by the shipper and the temperature set at -18c.
Once the vessel reached Antwerp however, the agent incorrectly booked the cargo into the carrier’s system to be transported at +18C. Despite the bills of lading stating the correct temperature of -18C, the error in the booking system was not spotted until discharge in the Middle East.
The cargo therefore travelled from Antwerp to the Middle East at +18C, resulting in a total loss. The consignee subsequently tried to claim directly against the ship agent for the full commercial value of the cargo, which was in excess of the limitation of liability the carrier would have been able to rely upon.
The carrier was able to rely on the limitation of liability on the bill of lading and settled with the consignee. The carrier passed the claim to the agent, who had to settle the €30,000 payment.
ABS Global Ship Systems Center Director honoured for Technical Achievement at 2022 Greek Shipping Awards
Dr. Chris Leontopoulos, ABS Director, Global Ship Systems Center, received the Technical Achievement Award at the 2022 Lloyd’s List Greek Shipping Awards for his contributions to pioneering vessel technologies and research. These included the prototype award-winning ‘Smart Bearing Sensor’ and the pioneering of the bearing double-slope optimisation concept, already applied in the majority of newbuilding vessels.
His more recent initiatives involved the ABS approval in principle (AIP) to the Shanghai Merchant Ship Design and Research Institute (SDARI) for a revolutionary vessel design that negates the risk of pollution from oil lubricated bearings and promotes efficient vessel operations.
The SDARI design, developed in cooperation with Thordon Bearings Inc. and the National Technical University of Athens (NTUA), involves removal of the stern tube casting, employing seawater for aftmost bearing lubrication and creating an aft chamber to permit in-water shaft and bearing maintenance for the first time, thus eliminating the need for drydocking or shaft line removal for bearing/seal replacement.
“I am delighted for Chris and the project stakeholders to be recognized for their work by the industry,” said Patrick Ryan, ABS Senior Vice President, Global Engineering and Technology. “As a technology leader, we are pleased to apply our insight and experience to support innovation, working with industry leaders on significant new technologies like this one for SDARI, NTUA and Thordon Bearings.”
ZESTAs granted IMO Consultative Status
ZESTAs (Zero Emissions Ship Technology Association) has been granted International Maritime Organization Consultative Status by IMO Council on provisional status for two years, after which time it will be reviewed for its contributions to standards. ZESTAs is invited to send observers to attend IMO meetings of interest to the organization with immediate effect.
“We are honoured to share our knowledge and insights on current commercial zero-emission technology and future development with the IMO,” stated Jogchum Bruinsma, ZESTAs Chair and Chief Commercial Officer for Nedstack Fuel Cell Technology. “To fulfil the IMO targets on decarbonization, it is vital to cooperate throughout the full shipping value chain and go for zero where possible. At ZESTAs we have the technology and the spirit to make zero-emission happen today.”
ZESTAs works to revolutionize the shipping industry through the promotion of rapid and large-scale uptake of zero-emissions technology and fuel. By combining zero emission technologies, it is possible to achieve zero emissions at the shipboard level faster. With today’s technologies, the shipping industry can achieve fully zero emissions now, particularly on smaller return to base vessels, as well as drastically reduce emissions on larger, ocean-going vessels with more complicated operational profiles.
The purpose of IMO Consultative Status is to enable IMO to obtain information or expert advice from non-governmental international organizations with special knowledge in a particular sector of IMO's activities and to enable such non-governmental international organizations representing large groups whose activities have an important and direct bearing on the work of IMO to express their points of view to it.
IMO has worked to lower shipping’s emission for over 20 years. As recently as 2018, IMO issued a goal of a 40% reduction in emissions by 2030 over 2008 levels and a 50% reduction by 2050. In recent years, however, pressure has built for IMO to be more ambitious and look towards zero emissions by 2050.
Madadh MacLaine, ZESTAs Secretary General, observed: “We cannot underestimate the importance of the work being undertaken currently at the IMO. The technologies exist to keep shipping in line with 1.5 degrees of warming and we look forward to working closely with the IMO to achieve the high level of ambition required to assure a fair and just transition and secure a safe future for all. “
Shipping is considered a ‘hard to abate’ sector for reducing greenhouse gas emissions. However, recently there is tremendous momentum in innovation and willingness to uptake zero-emission solutions. ZESTAs is well positioned to provide input on these solutions and has held a series of ‘ShipZERO’ events bringing together change-makers and innovators from across the entire maritime value chain from shipowners and manufacturers to financiers and regulators. The next will be held during London International Shipping Week 2023.
WinGD wins engine diagnostics orders as ship owners look to reduce OPEX
Swiss marine power company WinGD has received orders from two LNG carrier operators for its WinGD Integrated Digital Expert (WiDE) engine monitoring, diagnostics and remote support service.
Knutsen OAS Shipping has ordered WiDE for seven vessels, which include a recently delivered LNG carrier and six under construction. CoolCo, formed in 2021 with Eastern Pacific Shipping and Golar LNG as shareholders, will use the service on two existing vessels. The orders will deliver diagnostics to a total of 17 WinGD X-DF dual-fuel engines.
Rudolf Holtbecker, Director Operations, WinGD said: “WiDE empowers the vessel’s operation team with the tools needed to increase insight into engine performance, manage their maintenance plan and troubleshoot any challenges in order to reduce operating costs.”
WiDE uses advanced data sensors, analysis and modelling to compare engines’ in-service operation with their ideal reference performance for real-time conditions, identifying anomalies before they raise alarms and alerting crew to potential issues. This enables crews to avoid or dramatically reduce the time taken for troubleshooting, while fleet managers can optimise maintenance programmes based on detailed and up-to-date insight into component condition.
WiDE enables support from dedicated WinGD Operations Experts and provides regular updates on engine performance and condition. Robust connectivity through a leading telecommunications provider powers the WinGD 24x7 emergency response service, offering vessel operators around-the-clock remote support when needed.
“WiDE is a powerful tool for operators who want to take operating expenses into their own hands,” said Holtbecker. “Backed by our on-call experts, they can have total confidence that they will be able to maximise engine availability and optimise performance. As new engine technologies start to enter the market this level of support will become an increasingly important safeguard for early adopters and pioneers.”
More than 200 vessels are now monitored through WiDE. All new WinGD engines are fitted with the WiDE hardware as standard to enable the service.
Rivertrace continues growth path with acquisition of Solar Solve
UK-based environmental monitoring solutions provider Rivertrace has completed its acquisition of Solar Solve Ltd, a manufacturer and supplier of anti-glare window roller sunscreens (pictured) in the marine, offshore, aviation, agriculture, and commercial sectors.
The purchase, which was finalised in November following nine months of negotiations, represents the latest step in Rivertrace’s growth strategy. Rivertrace has grown more than 25 percent in the past five years and is now looking to consolidate the two businesses with further potential acquisitions on the horizon.
Solar Solve will continue to operate as an independent entity with all its current staff retained. The four Rivertrace directors have been appointed to the Board of Solar Solve.
The two family-owned companies, both of which were founded in the 1980s, are export oriented with distributors, OEMs and end-user customers, selling to over 65 countries across the world. The synergistic effects of the acquisition include Solar Solve being able to benefit from Rivertrace’s systems, processes, engineering experience, and infrastructure, while Rivertrace will be able to build on the legacy established by Solar Solve’s founders.
Mike Coomber, Executive Chairman of Rivertrace said: “Our plan has been to grow Rivertrace organically through the introduction of new products, expansion of our distribution model and infiltration of new markets and applications. We have been looking for a smaller business to purchase for the last year and Solar Solve has offered us a great opportunity.
“We are delighted to have secured the acquisition of Solar Solve, which has succeeded and grown due to the dedication and hard work of its owners, John Lightfoot MBE and Julie Lightfoot MBE, to join the ever-growing Rivertrace family. We will work with the key stakeholders of Solar Solve, its employees, customers, and suppliers to expand the business in line with our strategic goal.”
Terminal operators upgrade pivotal rail-shortsea connection at Rotterdam
Procedures have been overhauled in a critical link between Europe’s rail freight and shortsea networks in Rotterdam, in an upgrade responding to customer feedback which also enhances multimodal transport competitiveness.
Rail Service Center Rotterdam (RSC) loads and discharges 14-15 freight trains daily on average, at a state-of-the-art terminal fed by nine train service providers weekly from all over Europe. While many of the estimated 270,000 cargo units passing through each year are redistributed overland, significant numbers transfer to shortsea ships. Around 70,000 units move via the nearby Rotterdam Shortsea Terminals (RST).
In a project initiated by the boards of the two terminal companies and supported by Samskip, work began in May 2022 to eliminate inefficiencies in the connecting ‘shunt’. All three parties recognise optimising the modal switch of unitised cargoes at Europe’s largest container port as a material factor in shipper transport choices.
“This has been an invaluable project, where we have worked together to troubleshoot issues and set up procedures and solutions,” said Pierre van Dalen, Operations Manager, RSC. “Our common goal is to optimise efficiency and renew RSC’s ability to take advantage of growth in multimodal transport.
“We have established a permanent framework so that the shunt operation between our two terminals contributes to - rather than frustrates - the efficiency of transport providers, rail networks and all of our shortsea clients. Future work will focus on squeezing any remaining inefficiencies out of the process to shorten transit times.”
Harbor Lab secures €6.1 million funding for disbursement analysis software
Maritime tech start-up Harbor Lab has secured €6.1 million in funding to further develop its shipping disbursement analysis software program. Disbursements are all expenses that the Agent makes on behalf of the operator whilst the vessel is in port. Port expenses are the second largest cost behind bunkers for a shipping company and amount annually to more than $120 billion.
The Athens-based company is the first to offer SaaS (Software-as-a-Service) disbursement account analysis software that automatically calculates and evaluates port expenses against real-time port tariffs. It will use the capital injection to acquire talent to scale up its core products that are already bringing significant savings and greater transparency to the maritime industry.
The funding represents one of the largest amounts raised by a maritime technology company during a seed round. VentureFriends and Speedinvest led the funding round, with participation from a large number of additional investors including theDOCK, Signal Ocean, Motion Ventures, TecPier, Innoport, Charge VC and others. The company also received investment from notable tech founders including Alexandros Chatzielftheriou, founder of Blueground.
HarborLab CEO and founder Antonis Malaxianakis (pictured) says:“Many digitalisation gaps have been closed across shipping in recent years, however the disbursements process in shipping companies is often inefficient and administration-heavy, with little visibility for the ship operator of the actual costs associated with port calls. Harbor Lab’s DA Tool addresses these issues and can save operators around $2000 per port call, when a vessel operates in the spot market, and $1500 when she is on time charter.”
Costs paid on disbursements often include port dues, towage and pilotage fees, which combined represent the second-largest operating cost after fuel for a ship operator.
Through the Harbor Lab DA Tool, the ship operator can appoint a representative in port, confirm decisions and compare fees for items paid through their disbursements account, reducing administration by up to 500% – an operator can handle six to eight vessels manually but 40 through the platform. By leveraging the total volume of port calls processed through Harbor Lab’s platform, operators secure discounts on marine services and agency fees, producing savings that can reach on average seven times the amount spent on Harbor Lab’s services.
Since launching in March 2020, Harbor Lab has received positive feedback from end users with more than 10,000 port calls processed using the software. Harbor Lab’s ship operating clients have reported a greater visibility of port costs, faster processes and savings of around 6% per call as cost discrepancies are identified.
Apostolos Apostolakis, Partner at VentureFriends, says: “We are very excited to further support Harbor Lab in its quest to expand globally while establishing their footprint in major maritime hubs like Copenhagen and Singapore. We are also keen to see the product develop with the utilization of machine learning to digitalize ports around the world making shipping more efficient.”
With a current client base centred in Europe, the recently secured capital will enable Harbor Lab to expand its footprint with offices throughout Asia and North America and further capitalize on the estimated $200 billion maritime disbursements industry.
Philip Specht, Partner at Speedinvest, says: “Harbor Lab is one of those rare companies that can fundamentally disrupt key operating principles of a gigantic industry. By streamlining port calls and port operations across the world, Harbor Lab unlocks massive value for shipping companies and stakeholders in ports. We couldn’t be happier to back the team on their exciting journey.”
Nor-Shipping targets renewable potential with first Norwegian Offshore Wind pavilion
Nor-Shipping has announced that its 2023 event, taking place in Oslo and Lillestrøm, 6-9 June, will feature a dedicated offshore wind pavilion for the very first time.
Hosted by specialist cluster organisation Norwegian Offshore Wind (NOW), the new area aims to showcase national expertise to a global audience, opening up business opportunity for stakeholders throughout the maritime and ocean industries. Floating offshore wind will be a key focus, highlighting the potential of an energy niche set for ‘explosive growth’.
“The offshore wind industry is the global ‘talk of the town’,” comments Arvid Nesse, NOW’s Manager. “At Nor-Shipping we aim to demonstrate that Norwegian companies are primed to hit the markets now, accelerating global development in a sector that has huge promise for delivering long-term, sustainable energy.
“With over 350 member organisations, we have a diverse and established range of expertise, solutions and services to showcase. In effect, we offer a complete value chain that can be world leading in unlocking enormous value and growth, especially in floating offshore wind, where our members have truly unique competency. The fact that Nor-Shipping attracts such a high-quality, global audience of industry decision-makers makes it the perfect place to supercharge developments. Come and see for yourself in Hall T next June.”
The new pavilion complements both Nor-Shipping’s overall mission of enabling sustainable, profitable commercial opportunity in the ocean space, while also dovetailing with 2023’s main theme of #PartnerShip.
“We see this as an evolutionary step forward for Nor-Shipping,” states Sidsel Norvik (pictured), Nor-Shipping Director. “The need to facilitate ways of accessing truly renewable energy sources is evident to all, and here we have an organisation with the membership to make this a reality. Combining their expertise with our platform will, we believe, create awareness, understanding and a desire to seize the business opportunity that is open to many beyond the energy field, including our core maritime audience.
“We see this as profitable #PartnerShip in action. It’s an exciting move, for all our stakeholders.”
With members ranging from start-ups to major industry players, including names such as Equinor, ABB, Fred Olsen Seawind and Mainstream, NOW is targeting a global market share of over 10%, with considerably more than that relating to floating offshore wind. The body, located in Haugesund, Oslo, Stavanger and Kristiansand, has grown out of Norway’s Marine Energy Test Centre, where the world´s first floating wind turbine is currently being tested. Norway aims to position itself as a leading international ‘brand’ for offshore wind development, with this pavilion being utilised as a key measure in enabling that strategy.
Alongside the Offshore Wind Pavilion, Nor-Shipping offers visitors and exhibitors a range of national pavilions covering key maritime and ocean industry markets, including Japan, Germany, South Korea, Turkey and Singapore, amongst others.
Nor-Shipping 2023 will feature five main exhibition halls, spanning some 22,000 m2. Your Arena for Ocean Solutions also boasts an activity programme that includes the C-level Ocean Leadership Conference, Blue Talks, The Fourth International Autonomy Summit, AfterWork social schedule, and much more.
Boston Consulting Group and ABS combine expertise to support marine and offshore decarbonisation
Global management consultancy Boston Consulting Group (BCG) and classification society American Bureau of Shipping (ABS) have signed a memorandum of understanding to join their technical and consulting expertise in the maritime and offshore industries, providing joint support to clients’ decarbonisation journeys.
The new joint proposition will help clients achieve their net-zero goals, supporting asset owners in their efforts to explore feasible options for operational and technical improvement, advise on carbon capture technologies, and the uptake of alternative and low-carbon fuels, among other consultative services that support carbon reduction strategies.
Peter Jameson (pictured, right), Partner and Global Lead for Climate and Sustainability in BCG’s Infrastructure, Transport and Cities practice, said: “High uncertainty around regulation, technology and new markets requires every player across the maritime value chain to work together. Taking a bold leadership position, even with uncertainty, will create an advantage for first movers, and sustainable business for followers.”
Christopher J. Wiernicki (left), ABS Chairman, President and CEO, said: “We are excited to be bringing two global and industry recognized brands together to help the maritime industry, governments, charterers, suppliers, shipyards and shipowners deal with the challenges and opportunities of decarbonisation.
“ABS is built to play in the sweet spot of safety, technology and regulations while BCG is built to play in the sweet spot of strategy, transformation and change management. Bringing these capabilities together will provide a unique offering to help the industry safely unlock value, manage risks and take advantage of opportunities over the life cycle of the clean energy transition in a changing world. “
Shipowner decarbonisation survey identifies ‘collaboration crisis’
A survey of shipowners conducted by design and engineering consultancy Houlder has highlighted that reliance on ad hoc collaboration between ship owners, and between technology companies and owners, is currently a major barrier to the decarbonisation of shipping.
The research – based upon owner feedback from across the container, tanker, bulk, cruise and ferry sectors – uncovers that while the potential impact of more in-depth interaction is significant in achieving carbon reduction commitments, this is not currently being delivered in a way that owners need.
Every senior industry player interviewed confirmed that there is a willingness to collaborate and that it is critical to achieving rapid, fundamental change. However, collaboration is less evident in practice, as owners focus on achieving emissions reductions while safeguarding competitive advantage. The research unearthed two core areas for improvement: collaboration between owners and clean technology providers, as well as collaboration between owners themselves.
Owners identified a lack of good quality and relevant operating data as a key barrier to the uptake of clean technology. There is also a perceived shortage of independent corroboration for the claims made by some technology vendors. None of the participants accused technology providers of suggesting deliberately misleading results but reflected that the data in a brochure will inevitably relate to another ship. So the results (and the unintended consequences) of any technology intervention need to be recognised as a retrospective, and sometimes fundamental, design change.
Large shipowners, in particular, are doing a great deal to move the industry forward by creating clear demand for future green fuels, by setting up infrastructure to trial new technologies, and by sharing some of their findings. However, according to respondents, that only highlights the challenge for the smaller owners and medium-sized owners – where typically the scale and investment required for R&D and trialling was unattainable. To play their part, these smaller and medium shipowners need to draw in partners in order to access the knowledge, scale and resources to enable them to make changes.
Effective collaboration needs convenors to safeguard participants and break down barriers. Convenors can act as a central black box, bringing sensitive information together to paint the full picture while protecting the confidentiality of the data owners. They can also help ship owners share the cost of trialling a new technology while giving them all access to the benefits.
Sean McLaughlin, Strategy Consultant at Houlder, commented: “Collaboration has become a decarbonisation buzzword, much heralded as central to shipping’s energy transition, and critical to meeting the International Maritime Organisation’s emissions reduction targets. This research highlights that, while the heart is willing, the head remains focused on safeguarding competitive advantage. This creates a fundamental barrier which has to be addressed if shipping is to achieve its decarbonisation goals.
“Collaboration is more than just ship owners sharing technical data on a new technology. It encompasses all stakeholders and often supply chains as well. What is clear is that we cannot expect collaboration to “just happen” – there has to be more proactive convenors. Flag states, national chambers and the international chamber, industry coalitions and independent consultants all have a key convening role to play if significant barriers are to be overcome. This should form a core discussion point at the Marine Environment Protection Committee (MEPC) 79 meeting next week.”
The full whitepaper entitled ‘Clean Technology and the decarbonisation challenge - a Houlder Perspective’ is available to download from the company’s website.
MOU signed between SSA and ClassNK to establish framework for cooperation on cyber security research activities
Singapore Shipping Association (SSA) and ClassNK have signed an MOU (Memorandum of Understanding) to establish a framework for cooperation in cyber security research activities.
Cyber security has been acknowledged by the maritime industry as a key element to keep ships safe during operations, and to ensure its solid and steady digital transformation in coming years. Singapore, being a global maritime hub that connects regional and global markets, is ideally positioned for such research activities that eventually contributes to reinforce cyber resilience of the global supply chain to be launched.
With the signing of the MOU, the two parties will conduct joint basic research concerning establishing vessels’ cyber security operation centres that provide crew members with support from onshore in monitoring and responding to cyber events onboard. Based on expertise and experience gained from this research, SSA and ClassNK will work on drafting a joint white paper on the finding of the research and developing education and training plans of personnel to work for vessels’ cyber security operation centres jointly.
Mr. Michael Phoon, Executive Director of Singapore Shipping Association said: “Cyber-risk for ships are growing, as our industry gets more digitally sophisticated, integrated, and automated. Today, many shipping companies are focused on providing better welfare onboard for their seafarers, such as internet connectivity for them to stay in touch with their family and friends. That means, the ability of onshore personnel to gain access to decisive and strategic cyber threat intelligence and insights is critical.
“This SSA-ClassNK partnership is timely as it forms the basis of efficient operations of cyber security operation centres aimed at supporting onboard cyber needs.”
Capt. Naoki Saito, General Manager of Maritime Education and Training Certification Department, ClassNK said: “Recognizing that cyber security is the challenge that should be tackled with the collaborative approach of the industry, ClassNK firmly believes international frameworks can commit to helping the industry in raising awareness and studying the real-world risks. In this light, ClassNK is very glad to expand its partnerships with the driving leader in the sector in Singapore, a global maritime hub.
“We are committing to take this opportunity to identify the possible measures to establish the best practice on the issue. We hope to bridge the outcome from the MOU to contribute to ensure the regional and global growth of maritime transportation in a secured manner.”
SEA-KIT International secures USV export deal
SEA-KIT International has announced an Uncrewed Surface Vessel (USV) export sale to ThayerMahan, a world leader in autonomous maritime solutions based in Connecticut, USA.
The X-Class USV’s award-winning combination of extended range, high sea state endurance and payload capacity attracted ThayerMahan initially to the UK-based USV technology leader. The fact that SEA-KIT’s vessels are already commercially proven across the globe also factored heavily in their decision-making process.
Mike Connor, President and CEO at ThayerMahan, said: “We are always striving to improve the efficiency of maritime domain awareness and to keep people safe. SEA-KIT’s flexible payload design enables us to host multiple, sophisticated maritime sensing systems onboard, which in turn will support ThayerMahan to continue leading the field of remote and autonomous mobile acoustic sensing and sense making.
“We envisage that the introduction of this hi-tech USV to our portfolio will enhance the protection of ports and vessels at sea as well as have a positive impact on illicit trafficking across international borders.”
ThayerMahan is a world-leading provider of state-of-the-art remote and autonomous maritime sensing systems for government, industry and academia. The company plans to use the SEA-KIT USV to support introduction of the technology into government service, as well as for its own commercial activities in US and international waters.
Ben Simpson, SEA-KIT CEO, said: “This US export deal marks a significant milestone in the company’s journey so far. The UK is forging a leadership stance in Maritime Autonomous Systems innovation, and we are proud to be part of that. We look forward to a fruitful, ongoing partnership with ThayerMahan and to supporting their current and future maritime domain awareness goals.”
ThayerMahan is set to take delivery of the latest 12m SEA-KIT X-Class design in spring 2023, with plans for it to enter operation over the summer.
Tom Chant, Chief Executive of the UK’s Society of Maritime Industries (SMI), recognised its member’s achievement: “SEA-KIT has been with SMI right from its inception and it is tremendously satisfying to witness the growth of the company and to follow its numerous overseas projects, like the recent subsea volcano survey in Tonga.
“Winning new export business with new technology takes vision and a great deal of investment in product development, allied with the development of service and support teams. Congratulations to everyone at SEA-KIT for this impressive export win.”
Marlink leverages SES capacity to meet booming demand from energy customers
Smart network solutions company Marlink and satellite network provider SES have responded to booming energy sector demand by providing an additional one gigabyte of SES’s O3b satellite bandwidth capacity to Marlink customers.
The service now available to Marlink’s energy sector customers makes it possible for them to digitalise rig operations, connect crew with ease and provide heavyweight applications such as videoconferencing, workflow tools and Enterprise Resource Planning, in combination with data collection and proactive cyber security.
Marlink is experiencing increased demand across its energy portfolio and is able to meet highly demanding Service Level Agreements common in the sector using software-defined networks (SD-WAN) to optimise the user experience so that applications do not drop out but are assigned priority that keep assets and users connected.
Marlink’s hybrid network seamlessly combines both GEO a(geostationary Earth orbit) and high-performance MEO (medium Earth orbit) , which can be augmented with LEO (low Earth orbit) and terrestrial 4G/5G coverage. Used in combination, these services provide a seamless, intelligent data flow to enable customers to work from remote sites as active nodes on the corporate network, enjoying full coverage and connectivity.
Since the beginning of 2022, Marlink and SES have been collaborating on seven major energy projects across Africa, providing a full hybrid network solution leveraging SES’s O3b satellites that will be upgraded next year to include SES’s second-generation medium earth orbit (MEO) satellites, O3b mPOWER. The framework agreement signed earlier this year between the partners allows Marlink to easily leverage the high performance O3b mPOWER satellite system to deliver uncontended CIR and guaranteed performances to customers in Africa and the Middle East using real-time cloud-based applications.
“MEO capacity forms a vital component of the bandwidth blend that we use to meet the very high bandwidth demand of customers in the energy market,” said Alexandre de Luca, President, Energy, Enterprise and Government, Marlink. “Within our hybrid network, we depend on MEO bandwidth to give users a near-terrestrial experience for the heaviest applications, with smart management of traffic routing and customer priorities.”
“We are pleased to have further extended our strong relationship with Marlink, helping to keep their customers secure and connected,” said Simon Gatty Saunt, Vice President of Networks Sales, Europe at SES. “In addition to its flexibility and high-throughput capacity, O3b mPOWER will allow customers across any market and geography to boost their businesses through digital transformation and unlocking new cloud-based applications.”
Spring Marine praises time-saving automation and smooth installation procedure with Dualog Drive
Leading maritime software provider Dualog is delighted to announce that Spring Marine Management, a ship manager based in Athens, Greece, has added Dualog Drive data transfer service to improve the management of their fleet of 25 vessels.
A key challenge for many shipping companies is to reduce manual work and eliminate time-consuming operations when handling data transfers in shipping IT environments. Also, reducing the complexity of handling data exchange in maritime conditions is a key priority.
This was very much the situation for Spring Marine, a small, agile ship management company with a one-person IT department. The objective was clear: Find a solution that helps them spend less time on the IT system while improving the workflow when distributing documents and data across their fleet.
Konstantinos Zacharias, ICT Manager of Spring Marine, explains: "Transferring files and keeping documents up to date across a fleet has always been a challenge in our industry. Dualog Drive offers a very streamlined way of automating tasks. Once configured, I can relax because the system automatically transfers the documents from ship to shore and vice versa. I can now spend my time focusing on other important responsibilities."
He also emphasises the user experience for task creation and flexibility in the system: "We started with a few initial data transfer requirements and made tasks to fit those. After testing, we quickly expanded to solve more use cases and created additional tasks to suit these needs. We are confident Dualog Drive will become the perfect tool for future challenges."
When asked about highlights of the system, Mr Zacharias beams when he describes the smooth roll-out process. "The Dualog systems use something they call 'Link Activation Codes' to get the onboard installations to connect with the office. I only needed to send the small installation file to the captain and share the appropriate code. Within a few minutes, we could see that the vessel was online and ready to receive or transmit data. It worked like magic!"
Kyriakos Papapolydorou, Regional Sales Manager at Dualog, said: "The entire process with Spring Marine has been very smooth. They had clear goals to improve. Our objective has been to reduce the agony of managing data transfers between ship and shore. Based on customer feedback, we seem to have succeeded."
IHMA announces latest round of bursaries for Diploma in Harbour Masters Programme at Lloyd’s Maritime Academy
The International Harbour Masters Association (IHMA) has announced the recipients of its latest round of bursaries towards the Diploma in Harbour Masters Programme of Lloyd’s Maritime Academy.
The IHMA has been providing bursaries, which count towards 50% of course fees, since 2007. In that time, the association has awarded approximately 30 bursaries to aspiring harbour masters.
On this occasion the bursary recipients are as follows:
Greg Tandy, Hydrographic Surveyor, UK.
Damien Allen, Assistant Harbour Master, Port of Cork, Ireland.
Mohamed Alshereiqi, Maritime Pilot, Port Sultan Qaboos, Oman.
The course is aimed at those, particularly seafarers, preparing themselves to enter the Harbour Master profession. The programme has been developed jointly by the Lloyd’s Maritime Academy and the IHMA. It provides the marine safety and management knowledge required by Harbour Masters and deputy Harbour Masters, port captains and others with responsibility for marine functions in ports around the world.
The IHMA typically awards two bursaries for both spring and autumn intake of the? course each year. This year, however, the association awarded a third bursary due to the number and quality of applications.
IHMA President Paul O'Regan: “The Harbour Master has a key role to play in ensuring that people living and working in or close to the port, as well as those visiting the port environment, can go about their business safely and efficiently. Harbour Masters must be familiar with all relevant safety, environmental and health legislation at the international, national and local levels. We are pleased, as an organisation representing this important role internationally, to be able to support the development of the next generation of Harbour Masters in this way.”
The bursaries are just one example of the IHMA’s commitment to supporting the educational development of Harbour Masters. The association has teamed up with Lloyd’s Maritime Academy to provide access to a range of courses offering the knowledge of legislation, risk management, navigational equipment, security, marine operations and management skills required to overcome key industry challenges.
The partnership provides existing IHMA members with up to 15% discount on selected Lloyd’s Maritime Academy courses. Non-members enrolling on the courses, on the other hand, will receive a one-year complimentary associate membership of the IHMA.
MacGregor wins two large orders for heavy-duty cranes and electric transloading cranes
MacGregor, part of Cargotec, has been selected to supply heavy-duty cranes for a total of 10 floating crane barges to be built by PT Karya Teknik Utama at their shipyard in Indonesia. The orders were booked into Cargotec’s 2022 Q3 and Q4 order intake. The barges are scheduled to be delivered from the second quarter of 2023, until the third quarter of 2024.
The orders consist of 10 heavy-duty cranes, some of them including a foundation and a pedestal. The cranes are designed for 1,800,000 load cycles and are equipped with a mechanical grab to ensure optimal performance and turnover. Two of the ordered cranes will be the first electric transloading cranes of the TCE type to be produced and delivered to the customer.
PT Karya Teknik Utama has chosen MacGregor to supply the cranes thanks to the good and long relationship established during the years of cooperation and to the capacity and endurance of the cranes.
Winarto Asnim CEO of PT Karya Teknik Utama comments; “MacGregor was chosen to supply the cranes based on our experience with their quality and productivity. In addition, we have a history of successful business together and would like to continue building this relationship that weighs a lot on trust.
“We are excited to be the first buyer of the inaugural electric transloading crane TCE which will be the forerunner in the transshipping industry and enables us to contribute to a more sustainable future. We look forward to developing our business with MacGregor even deeper in the future.”
“In the last five years, we have supplied more than 10 heavy-duty cranes to PT Karya Teknik Utama to demanding loading work on their barges. We are very proud that they have trusted us with these orders and we are committed to supporting KTU´s business by delivering what is promised. We intend to continue building our cooperation together” says Magnus Sjöberg, Senior Vice President, Merchant Solutions, MacGregor.
IMRF announces new Chief Executive Officer
The International Maritime Rescue Federation (IMRF) has announced the appointment of Caroline Jupe as the organisation’s new Chief Executive Officer, effective from 1 February 2023.
She will replace Theresa Crossley who will be retiring next year following a five-year tenure but remaining in a support role to help with preparations for the IMRF’s World Maritime Rescue Congress, which will be held in Rotterdam, the Netherlands, in June 2023.
Dean Lawrence, IMRF Chair, said: "We are delighted that Caroline has emerged as the best candidate from a strong field of applicants. Her commitment to supporting IMRF members, combined with her enthusiasm and vision for the organisation, really shines through. We are confident that she is the right person to build on the huge progress that has been made in the past five years and to lead the organisation into the next stage of its development.
"We would like to thank Theresa Crossley, our outgoing CEO, who has guided the organisation through a challenging time and leaves it in a stronger position than it was when she joined us,” he added.
Caroline joined the IMRF in March 2016 as Fundraising Manager before becoming the organisation’s Head of Fundraising & Projects. She has played a key role in the development of several IMRF initiatives designed to improve the capabilities and best practices of search-and-rescue organisations around the world.
These include #WomenInSAR, which aims to increase the representation of women in the maritime sector, and #SARyouOK?, a campaign to increase awareness of mental health and wellbeing issues faced by SAR (Search and Rescue) personnel.
"Maritime SAR is constantly evolving in response to new challenges, but we are stronger when we face those challenges - and work out solutions – together,” Caroline said. “That sharing of experience is at the heart of the IMRF and I am really excited to have the opportunity to lead this fantastic organisation as it continues to support the development of global SAR."
As of the end of 2021, the IMRF has 123 members from 53 countries.
GoodFuels successfully delivers 100% biofuel to AIDAprima
GoodFuels, the leading biofuels provider for the global transport industry, has successfully delivered 140mt of 100% biofuel to AIDAprima, enhancing its partnership with Carnival Corporation’s AIDA Cruises brand, the companies have announced today.
The Hyperion-class cruise ship was refuelled with GoodFuels’ sustainable biofuels during its 8thDecember port call to Rotterdam, in the Netherlands. This first bunkering of 100% biofuels for AIDAprima marks another important step forward to achieving sustainability and decarbonisation in the cruise industry.
GoodFuels’ next-generation sustainable biofuel is derived from feedstocks that are certified as 100% waste or residue, including processed used cooking oil, tallow, and animal waste fats. It enables a well-to-exhaust CO2 reduction of 80% to 90% when compared to fossil fuels. Thanks to its “drop in” properties, AIDAprima was bunkered with biofuel without requiring any modifications to the engine or tanks.
The vessel was refuelled with a 100% biofuel product, without blending with conventional marine fuels, proving the viability and technical applicability of sustainable marine biofuel for all types of vessels.
The successful delivery of GoodFuels’ 100% biofuel builds on the partnership kicked off between the two companies in July 2022, when AIDAprima was bunkered with a blend of biofuel and conventional marine fuels. This new step demonstrates AIDA Cruises’ continued commitment to investing in low carbon emissions technologies as part of the company’s decarbonisation strategy.
Commenting on the partnership, Dirk Kronemeijer, CEO of GoodFuels, said: “This bio-bunkering with AIDA Cruises comes as yet another big step forward on the cruise sector’s decarbonisation pathway. It builds on the collaboration and partnership we are enjoying with AIDA Cruises and the wider Carnival group, and once again proves that our sustainable biofuels are an immediately available sustainability solution for a range of segments in the global fleet.
“The team at GoodFuels is focused on delivering immediate impact, and we are pleased to be able to continue to work with the pioneers at AIDA Cruises to see 100% biofuel used in operations to help deliver more sustainable voyages.”
Nextvoyage expands leadership team with key hires
Nextvoyage is pleased to announce that it has expanded its leadership team by welcoming onboard both Mr John Viggiano and Mr Jonathan McLean, as new Chief Operating Officer (COO) and Chief Technology Officer (CTO) respectively.
Both John and Jonathan arrive at Nextvoyage from careers in the software industry, including experience in maritime industry software. Together with Mark Pith, their Chief Executive Officer, Nextvoyage is well positioned to continue their mission to provide modern and effective solutions for Freight Management in the maritime industry.
John Viggiano brings with him deep operations know-how and hands-on project management experience. In his new role as COO John will focus on developing and executing strategies that quickly bring value to clients. Prior to Nextvoyage, John worked in various roles in the information technology sector, including maritime technology, and started his career in telecommunications.
Jonathan McLean, as CTO, will focus on the overall product engineering and solution architecture of Nextvoyage’s leading SaaS offering. Jonathan has rich experience in many different aspects of the software and maritime industries including product design, development, and project implementation. Along with managing technical details, Jonathan has also worked one-on-one with clients to help them use technology solutions to meet and exceed their business goals.
“I’m excited to grow our team and to welcome John and Jonathan. Working together, we will be able to deliver even more value to our customers,” said Nextvoyage founder Mark Pith. “Their experience will contribute to our solid foundation as we expand our business and capabilities and bring that value directly to our customers.”
Asyad Shipping expands service footprint to Singapore
Asyad Shipping has opened the company’s first international office in Singapore as part of its ambitious growth plans to expand the business portfolio into the Asian market. The new office will act as a platform for Asyad Shipping to serve the increasing demand from current and potential customers in that region.
Asyad Shipping operates a diversified fleet of more than 70 vessels with a total Deadweight capacity (DWT) of 8 million including a mix of Very Large Crude Carriers (VLCCs), Product Tankers, LNG carriers, Chemical carriers, LPG Tankers, Very Large Ore Carriers (VLOCs) and Dry Bulk carriers as well as various regional container line services.
Earlier this year, Asyad Shipping commissioned a new container line that connects Oman directly to Singapore and Malaysia to increase trade relations with Asian countries and to provide Omani traders with a fast, time and cost-effective access to Singapore as an international distribution hub and subsequently to Southeast Asian markets.
Established presence in Asia will afford Asyad Shipping with a wider reach to prospective global clients, particularly to the shipping clients based in Japan, China and Korea and other liner and logistics companies with the added benefit of working in the same time zone. The placement of Asyad Shipping in Singapore will have a greater value-added service to its ship management and chartering activities. The move also facilitates the expansion of Asyad’s existing fleet through the chartering in of more vessels from anticipated increased interactions with major Asian clients.
“Establishing our presence in Asia will play a crucial role in driving future growth. We see plenty of expansion opportunities in this region and now is the right time to enter the market with greater force. Our Singapore office represents our commitment to bringing the very best of Asyad Shipping to our clients, Asian shipyards and other liner companies,” says Dr. Ibrahim Al-Nadhairi, CEO of Asyad Shipping & Asyad Drydock.
Osbit supercharges US offshore wind capability
Osbit, the UK-headquartered offshore technology expert, has significantly expanded its US footprint to meet demand within the country’s rapidly growing offshore wind market.
Set up in 2010 and currently operating two sites in Northumberland, as well as holding a tenancy at OrbisEnergy in Lowestoft, the business has completed the first stage of its US growth strategy, which vastly increases Osbit’s presence and capability at the heart of the country’s burgeoning offshore wind community.
The company is now fully operational under its new US entity, Osbit Inc in Rhode Island and Delaware, which has been created to support the company’s ongoing engagement with the local supply chain and regional authorities.
As part of its expansion plans, Osbit has also appointed its existing business development colleague Dustin Varnell as US Country Manager, to lead its team’s efforts on the ground and handle current opportunities.
Dustin (pictured, far right, with team) is now based at a new facility Osbit has taken on in Providence, Rhode Island, a growing offshore wind hub.
Osbit is currently developing a range of equipment to suit the specific needs of the US wind market, as well as recently delivering its Swordfish subsea to Jan De Nul and an upending hinge to an undisclosed repeat customer.
As part of offshore wind services outfit Venterra Group, Osbit is working in collaboration with many of its fellow member companies in the US region, as the Group seeks to play a leading role in the offshore wind industry’s rapid expansion.
Venterra Group continues to invest to support the Engineer, Build and Support phases of the offshore wind farm lifecycle, providing the urgently needed capabilities required to unlock industry potential.
Chris Jones, Business Development Director at Osbit comments: “We have long been excited about the fantastic developments coming in US offshore wind, and the steps we’re now making cement Osbit’s commitment to supporting its growth. Osbit has been supplying offshore equipment to enable blue economy development for over twelve years now and we are really enjoying collaborating with and sharing our expertise with stakeholders across the US industry.”
Dustin Varnell, Osbit’s US Country Manager, adds: “Osbit Inc. is in a great position to help solve engineering and construction challenges for US offshore wind. Our unique approach to partnering with local companies and our expertise with a proven track record have put us in a great position to support customers here in the US.”
Ardmore Shipping opts for Value Maritime’s emissions-cutting technology
Product and chemical tanker company Ardmore Shipping Corporation has placed an order for Value Maritime’s emissions-reducing Filtree system, including the Clean Loop system, for an initial six MR Tankers.
Aligning with Ardmore’s energy transition ambitions, the tankers will be made Carbon Capture ready for collecting CO2 emissions onboard in the future. Taking place during regularly scheduled drydocks, the Filtree units will be installed in yards in Europe and Asia. Timing installations in this way ensures zero disruption to the commercial activities of Ardmore’s vessels.
The Filtree system is based on innovative technology that will filter sulphur, CO2 and 99% of ultra-fine particulate matter from the tankers’ exhaust stream. The system uses a Clean Loop mechanism which additionally filters its own washing water, removing oil residues and particulate matter, ensuring the pH neutral value of the water and contributing to reduced acidification of seas and rivers.
Ardmore Shipping is looking for sustainable solutions for its fleet, now and for the future. Due to the Filtree system’s removal of sulphur from the exhaust gas flow, Ardmore can cut its emissions today while continuing to sail with more cost-effective high-sulphur fuel. Additionally, this positively affects the vessel's performance and maintenance requirements. As a direct result, the Filtree system offers a rapid return on investment.
Through its Energy Transition Plan (ETP), Ardmore has set the target of playing a pivotal role in the industry’s goal to reach net-zero emissions. To achieve this, Ardmore is finding technologies that promote the roll-out and short-term implementation of alternative fuels, as well as identifying and implementing fuel efficiency technologies that lead the way to a sustainable future for the tanker industry.
Garry Noonan, Director of Innovation - Ardmore Shipping “In terms of technology, we believe strongly in working with technical and commercial partners to develop solutions addressing the energy transition. As we embrace what could be referred to as the next generation in exhaust gas cleaning system technology, Value Maritime’s Filtree is unique in its ability to not only clean and neutralize overboard discharge, but also offer an additional benefit in the form of a potential carbon capture upgrade, this allows us flexibility today, while future-proofing our vessels for tomorrow in an economical and efficient way.”
Braemar launches Greek Corporate Finance desk led by Stefanos Fragos
Braemar Plc has announced the expansion of its Corporate Finance desk to Athens, Greece, and the appointment of Stefanos Fragos (pictured) to spearhead its growth in the region.
Braemar is responding to a clear need in the market from shipowners in Greece and the Mediterranean for expert counsel in the equity and debt capital markets, advisory for mergers, acquisitions, restructuring, and help originating, structuring and delivering tailor- made ship finance solutions.
Amongst several other promising opportunities for 2023, Braemar sees great potential in sourcing capital from Asia and making this available to smaller and medium sized Greek shipowners.
Stefanos Fragos joins Braemar from alternative finance provider Yieldstreet where he ran the Athens office. Prior to that he was a senior banker in DVB Bank’s Greek office for more than a decade. Stefanos will work closely with Braemar’s Corporate Finance offices in London, Hamburg, and Singapore, as well as its S&P and Newbuilding desks globally.
The arrival of Corporate Finance to Braemar’s Athens office is the latest investment in Braemar’s ability to meet the need amongst its Greek clients for the highest level of expertise and practical experience. Led by Head of Athens, Dimitris Kyrtsos, Braemar is now able to provide the full range of chartering, shipping investment advisory, and shipping risk advisory directly from Athens to its Greek clients.
Axel Siepmann, Global Head of Corporate Finance, commented: “We have been looking for the right candidate for a long time and we are very grateful that Stefanos has agreed to join our team. Stefanos’s skills and professional experience will enable us to immediately promote Braemar’s financial advisory service offering in Greece, which combines raising debt and equity capital, but also transaction support and restructuring advice.”
Stefanos Fragos, Head of Corporate Finance in Greece, commented: “I am delighted to be joining Braemar’s global network of Corporate Finance specialists, and offering Greek owners focused financing and advisory services accretive to their forward-looking aspirations.”
International Chamber of Shipping urges unity on GHG reduction measures ahead of MEPC 79
Speaking at the conclusion of a greenhouse gas working group at the International Maritime Organization, which precedes this week’s 79th session of the Marine Environment Protection Committee (MEPC 79), ICS Secretary General Guy Platten commented:
“At COP26, global shipowners reiterated their commitment to reaching net-zero carbon emissions by 2050. IMO Secretary-General Kitack Lim’s closing remarks in Glasgow were: ‘We hear you.’
“We welcome signals that IMO member states now seem to be on track to adopt a similar target for international shipping, as well as a goal for 5% of the energy used by shipping to be produced from alternative fuels by 2030. But the hard work starts now.
“Many submissions on the table at the IMO include ambitious but pragmatic decarbonisation solutions, including ICS’s recent ‘Fund and Reward’ proposal. Government representatives at the MEPC must resist the urge to find fault, and instead find cohesion, to move these proposals forward. The increasing impacts of climate change will not wait.
“Zero-carbon fuels must be available in significant quantities no later than 2030 if we’re to have any hope of hitting a 2050 target. Encouragingly, consensus is growing. Proposals show a groundswell of support for a flat rate contribution per tonne of CO2 emitted by ships on a global basis, to accelerate the production and uptake of these fuels.
“The EU 27 have signalled acceptance of this approach rather than pursuing carbon trading on a global basis, and we hope next week will advance these complex negotiations further.
“We urgently need to reduce the political and investment risk. We can never forget that to decarbonise the world, you need shipping.”
The Swedish Club announces General Increase for 2023
In recognition of the need to maintain a balanced approach, the Board of The Swedish Club has made the decision to set a 10% P&I General Increase for 2023.
The FD&D General Increase has been set at 15%.
Speaking at last week's board meeting, Managing Director of The Swedish Club, Lars Rhodin, said: “It is essential for the long-term stability of the Club that premiums remain in line with exposures. The current geopolitical environment, coupled with a slow post-COVID recovery, has left the world facing levels of inflation that have not been experienced for many years. We are seeing this trend reflected in claims inflation, and it is essential for our members that we continue to offer stable performance and stable underwriting for which we are known.”
The Swedish Club continues to develop quality business, with high levels of member retention and selective growth across all sectors.
InterManager emphasises strength in numbers as Mark O’Neil's appointed to serve further term
Gathering in Cyprus for the Annual General Meeting, InterManager members agreed that working together is the way to achieve success and improve standards in the shipmanagement sector.
Accepting the role of President for a further term, Mark O’Neil, CEO of Columbia Shipmanagement, summarised this year’s achievements and commented: “There’s a lot to be happy and positive about and 2023 offers us an opportunity to step up even further.”
Mr O’Neil is a firm believer in the ‘One Voice’ approach and he vowed to increase membership further, encouraging in-house shipmanagement teams to join alongside third party ship and crew managers. “The maritime world is evolving quickly in this post-pandemic era and ship managers need to speak out loudly and in unison on international issues to ensure ship management concerns and crew welfare are properly taken into account.”
His comments were echoed by InterManager Secretary General, Captain Kuba Szymanski, who told the meeting: “Working together really does bring a lot of benefits.” Describing the association’s members as “ambassadors”, he said: “While we are competitors, 80% of what we do overlaps and there is much we can achieve by working together.”
Captain Szymanski encouraged ship and crew managers to “be bold” when speaking out to raise awareness of industry concerns, encouraging them to “flag up your pain points – together we can change things.”
For information about InterManager membership please visit our website: www.intermanager.org
CSM says engine health monitoring is essential to meeting the CII requirements
Shipowners and charterers using the newly-released Emissions and Engine Health Monitoring System, via Columbia Shipmanagement’s (CSM) Performance Optimisation Control Room (POCR), will be aligned with BIMCO’s Carbon Intensity Indicator (CII) Operations Clause for Time Charter Parties designed to help the industry commercially navigate the complexities of the IMO’s CII regulations.
This was the assurance made by Capt Pankaj Sharma, CSM’s Group Director Digital Performance Optimisation, ahead of the new regulations on the carbon intensity of international shipping coming into force on 1 January, 2023.
A recent BIMCO announcement suggested that owners and charterers need to collaborate and cooperate to manage the IMO objective to reduce carbon emissions. Its new clause sets out a way forward in a time charter context, where charterers are responsible for the operation of the vessel.
“With the recent introduction of the BIMCO CII operation clause addition, the need to use continuous CII monitoring systems as well as an engine health monitoring system are fully covered through our emissions monitoring addition and PANGIA-Engine Monitoring System,” he said.
According to Capt Sharma, when it came to advising shipowners, the CII should be measured and assessed on a continuous basis and trends identified proactively rather than depending on end-of-year results.
“Shipowners should use CII projection to predict resultant CII and have early discussions with their charterers. It is important they ensure their engines are in good working health and are advised to invest in an engine health monitoring system such as the one used in the POCR, for recordkeeping and evidence. The crew should also be fully trained for sensitivity and impact of CII reporting and management,” he said.
Based on this, CSM would advise charterers to measure CII and monitor the health of the engine. “They should ensure there is implementation of an operations monitoring system including statement of fact for recordkeeping and evidence and should engage with shipowners to identify and resolve any technical issues,” Capt Sharma said.
POCR’s Emissions and Engine Health Monitoring System is not only cost-effective but it enables ship managers and technical superintendents to quickly identify issues and failures, monitor vessel KPIs, and integrate third-party data analytics to continuously improve their vessel’s engine room performance.
Digitalisation at the engine level can provide instant, in-depth analysis of the engine with actionable advice or steps that reduce fuel oil consumption. This can ensure the engine is operating at maximum performance and help extend the lifetime of the engine by monitoring asset health.
-Ends-
IACS Council strengthens quality structures in recognition of evolving technical developments
The 86th session of the IACS Council (C86) focused on recent developments around its internal oversight of Quality matters, recognizing that the restrictions imposed by COVID-19 and the associated responses, the challenges posed by the rapid introduction of new regulations and technologies in relation to decarbonisation and the ongoing development of IQARB make it essential for IACS to respond rapidly in these areas.
Accordingly, an unprecedented sub-Committee of the IACS Council has been established to develop future Quality policy, to provide both high-level and in-depth review of ongoing performance and improvement, and to manage IACS’ engagement with external Quality stakeholders such as the International Quality Assessment Review Body (IQARB). This new Council sub-Committee provides IACS with enhanced bandwidth to focus, at Council level, on Quality related developments while also facilitating faster responses to external developments.
Nick Brown, IACS Chair and CEO of Lloyd’s Register, welcomed Council’s decision “Maintaining the highest standards of Quality performance remains at the core of IACS’ purpose – this dedicated sub-Committee provides the space for both ongoing review and the innovative thinking necessary to ensure IACS Quality System Certification Scheme remains the gold standard for Classification Societies”.
IACS Council also reaffirmed its commitment to supporting the Safe Decarbonisation of the maritime industry and welcomed the increasing recognition at IMO of the need for a practical and achievable implementation plan to accompany the delivery of its greenhouse gas (GHG) reduction strategy for shipping. In this context C86 agreed to take a leading role to support IMO Member States in their development of a new output proposal to allow the Maritime Safety Committee to determine how best to address any identified safety issues.
C86 also welcomed the progress being made by its recently established Safe Decarbonisation Panel in developing an effective oversight arrangement for the safety of decarbonisation solutions, and also re-emphasised IACS’ unique ability to develop common technical requirements that can make a key contribution to the delivery of regulatory certainty.
C86 also saw IACS ready itself for future challenges by adopting a new six-year strategy that, in addition to Quality, focuses on aligning its technical output with societal and industry demands, enhancing its stakeholder engagement, maintaining its role and visibility in the industry and underpins this with a drive to improve the efficiency and effectiveness of its internal processes to streamline the delivery of IACS outputs.
The gradual return to normal operating practices in most parts of the Globe in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic allowed C86 to be held as an entirely physical meeting for the first time since 2019. This meant that the high-level IACS Council/Industry meeting could be resumed and whose agenda saw productive discussions around the need for cross-industry collaboration on safe decarbonisation, the need for enhanced data-sharing around new technologies, progress with IQARB and a number of projects currently underway in IACS that will, in time, feed into the future evolution of common structural rules.
Speaking after the meeting, Nick Brown said ‘At a time of global geo-political uncertainty, increasingly ambitious societal demands for the decarbonisation of shipping and ongoing rapid technological change, C86 reaffirmed IACS’ commitment to safety and its ability both to meet current demands while also preparing itself for future challenges”.
Mitsui OSK Lines implements Marlink smart hybrid connectivity including Starlink LEO services
Marlink is to deploy its hybrid satellite communications connectivity solutions on selected vessels operated by Japanese shipowner Mitsui O.S.K. Lines (MOL), integrating Starlink LEO (low Earth orbit) with its highly reliable Sealink GEO (geostationary Earth orbit) VSAT service and its digital platform.
MOL will verify how Marlink’s unique network can enhance operating safety and improve high-speed communications for seafarers. Starlink’s high speed, low latency connectivity will form an integral part of this hybrid solution, designed to provide a reliable Committed Information Rate (CIR) in combination with unparalleled Maximum Information Rate (MIR) performance.
The Marlink network will be completed with an L-band backup solution and will be seamlessly and securely orchestrated with Marlink’s network management platform, XChange and advanced Cyber threat detection, including Security Operation Center (SOC) as a service.
MOL is one of the world's largest shipping companies with more than 130 years of history and operational experience. The company plans to verify the effectiveness of Marlink’s hybrid network solution including Starlink within its future digital innovation strategy.
Marlink’s integration of Starlink into one seamless end-to-end managed hybrid network provided to MOL, will improve user experience, application performance and security. MOL will also benefit from additional managed services including global 24/7 support to ensure the smooth integration of the connectivity into MOL’s business operations.
Marlink will leverage its 40 years of satcom network expertise to provide MOL with professional services such as network assessment, design, configuration, integration and delivery. Marlink’s network management platform, XChange will include the latest software-defined (SD-WAN) technology to optimise the routing of MOL’s applications by leveraging the different connectivity solutions simultaneously.
MOL is committed to improving operational and environmental performance across its diversified fleet. The company has long believed in the importance of communications technology to drive efficiency and voyage optimisation through data collection.
“Marlink is honoured to have been selected by MOL for this next-generation connectivity evaluation, blending GEO/LEO services and we look forward to working with our Japanese colleagues to demonstrate the power of this hybrid, future-proof network,” said Tore Morten Olsen, President, Maritime, Marlink. “This pilot will demonstrate the unique user experience of high speed, low latency connectivity working alongside our highly reliable GEO VSAT services, enabling shipowners to drive operational efficiency and enhance crew welfare.”
“MOL is pleased to be collaborating with Marlink to bring the next generation of maritime communications to our fleet and understand better how these services fit into our digital sustainability strategy,” said Ryusuke Kimura, Managing Executive Officer, Mitsui OSK Lines. “The ability to improve our business processes and the welfare of our crews, with a partner like Marlink enables us to focus on our core activities and provide the best possible service to our customers.”
New mobile app from North P&I eases evidence gathering burden for marine professionals
A new mobile app from North P&I will make collecting evidence on incidents faster, easier and more accurate while enhancing reporting consistency in future claims.
Launched on 12 December 2022, the ‘The MRCE Handbook’ app from North will help senior officers, surveyors and shore-based technical and marine personnel gather evidence quickly and efficiently, using standardised formats on mobile phones and tablets.
The MRCE Handbook app has been developed by North’s in-house Loss Prevention Team using proven methodologies established in The Mariner’s Role in Collecting Evidence Handbook. Published by North, the source Handbook outlines the most commonly occurring incidents and accidents on board ship, offering evidence collection checklists for each. It is widely regarded as a leading reference guide for seafarers.
“Evidence that is gathered and preserved at the time of the incident is invaluable to the resolution of claims and disputes,” said Colin Gillespie (pictured), Director (Loss Prevention), North. “Using digital tools to streamline its collection helps with speed and accuracy, making it more likely that a comprehensive and objective record of events is established. Timely collection reinforces the value of evidence, both for pursuing and defending claims.”
Compatible with iPhones, Androids and tablets, the app is free to access for all North entered Members and Correspondents. It offers clear guidance on best practice in evidence-gathering methods and covers incidents such as those involving people or cargo, those caused by vessels (including pollution), and those relating to H&M claims or commercial disputes.
The MRCE Handbook app is available 24/7, allowing users to generate a checklist based on the types of incident, available evidence and to upload information on each checklist item - online and offline - to generate a standardised report to share with the shipowner or manager. Users can also save incomplete checklists and return to them later to finish the job.
“Once the facts are known, they can be used to demonstrate compliance or determine liability, but also to learn and help prevent similar incidents from happening in the future,” said Mike Salthouse, Global Director (Claims), North. “Establishing what really happened and how it happened is critical and, as well as making it easier for mariners to fulfil evidence-gathering duties, The MRCE Handbook app will also help to base safety recommendations on more accurate evidence.
“Mobile devices are commonly used to capture still, and video images as incidents unfold. Having The MRCE Handbook app to hand will increase awareness that formalised evidence gathering and reporting is also required and can be accomplished more easily than ever before.”
The new app is now available for download to multiple users via a single registration within the MyNorth account Members Area on the company website.
NLB awards contract for build of hybrid powered ship to Spanish shipyard Gondán
The Northern Lighthouse Board (NLB), the General Lighthouse Authority for Scotland and the Isle of Man, has announced the award of a £51.8 million contract to Spanish shipyard Astilleros Gondán S.A, for the build of a state-of-the-art hybrid powered ship to support its vital safety service to mariners.
Gondán is a well-established and highly respected family business with a track record of delivering quality vessels. The tender includes a commitment to place over £2 million of contracts with UK suppliers with a requirement for any contract over £25k to be advertised in the UK. As part of the deal Gondán will also create a special fully funded internship programme for up to 15 UK-based students who will benefit from a range of placements at the yard during the vessel’s construction.
Mike Bullock, NLB’s Chief Executive said: “This is a really exciting time for us, and we are delighted we can now take forward our ambitious plans for the build of a hybrid powered aid to navigation tender to replace NLV POLE STAR, which after 23 years of service is rapidly approaching the end of her economic life.
“The new vessel, which will take the name POLE STAR, will be a step change from what has gone before using new technology to minimise the impact on the environment and will bring additional capability to help deal with the effects of Climate Change. This will ensure that we can continue to protect mariners and our precious marine environment in Scottish and Manx waters into the 2050s.”
Alvaro Platero, CEO and Owner of Gondán said: “We are thrilled to have been awarded this contract by the Northern Lighthouse Board, and we are honoured to have been chosen after a very thorough tender process. Our team worked tirelessly to submit a competitive bid, and we are grateful to NLB for recognizing our efforts.
“We take great pride in our reputation as a shipyard specialized in the delivery of tailored vessels that perform even on the most demanding conditions and we are committed to upholding that reputation with the construction of this modern and environmentally friendly vessel. We would like to thank NLB for entrusting us with this project, and we look forward to working with them to bring their vision to life.”
Maritime Minister Baroness Vere said: “This new vessel will deliver vital stores and supplies to lighthouses along the coastline and help to carry out important buoy work, providing a crucial service to the wider maritime sector and upholding world-class levels of safety in our waters.
“As we continue working to deliver Maritime 2050 and decarbonise, it’s great to see the new POLE STAR will also be much greener than its predecessor and make use of innovative technology to reduce emissions, while supporting jobs and skills in the UK.”
NLB operates two ships NLV PHAROS and NLV POLE STAR. The ships carry out buoy work, deliver stores and supplies to lighthouses and inspect navigation aids on oil and gas rigs in the Scottish sector. The new vessel which will follow a tradition started in 1892 by being the fifth NLB vessel to bear the name POLE STAR, will be constructed to a detailed specification which ensures improved sea keeping, better and safer buoy servicing operations, towing and firefighting capability. There will also be improved crew accommodation and substantial environmental improvements over its predecessor.
The vessel will enter service in June 2025 and will meet the ambitious environmental targets set out in the UK Government Clean Maritime Plan, whilst future proofing NLB’s ability to deliver its vital safety services over the next 25 years.
Turkey joins Institute of Chartered Shipbrokers governing body
Turkey’s growing maritime industry is set to take a bigger role in the development of professional shipbroking standards following its admittance to the Institute of Chartered Shipbrokers (ICS) governing body. The London headquartered ICS provides globally recognised professional qualifications for brokers, agents and managers. It becomes the 27th branch member of the 111-year-old organisation.
ICS Turkey, based in Istanbul, will be responsible for growing the membership and education programme in Turkey and coordinating events, workshops, and examination centres. With its representation at Institute Controlling Council meetings, the Turkey branch will join other international branches in playing an integral and influential role in the overall development of the Institute.
Welcoming the branch at the Institute’s Controlling Council Meeting in London, ICS Chairman Glenn Murphy (pictured) said: “Turkey is a fast-growing maritime force. With over 1000 ship agencies active across the country supporting the 526m tonnes of cargo handled in Turkish ports in 2021, not to mention the increasing number of shipbrokers and ship managers, high quality professional education is critical to the country’s development as an international shipping centre. We are delighted to elevate Turkey to ICS branch status.”
ICS Turkey is chaired by Bahadir Tonguc FICS, also MD of Supramar Shipping & Trading, who said: “This is a journey which began in 2012 when an ICS member had an idea that was quickly supported by professionals working in shipping in Turkey. It steadily grew over the years to the forming of a leadership group, the hosting of events, the development of teaching resources and local exam centres to support students, and the qualification of new members.
“We are delighted to be recognised by our peers and look forward to growing the membership and education programme in Turkey and contributing to the Institute as the global organisation for shipping professionals.”
Change of CEO at Maersk as Soren Skou retires
Effective as of 1 January 2023 Vincent Clerc will be appointed new CEO of A.P. Møller - Mærsk A/S (Maersk) replacing Søren Skou who will leave the Group. Vincent Clerc is currently CEO of the company’s Ocean & Logistics business and has been with the Group for 25 years.
The Executive Board will hereafter consist of CEO Vincent Clerc, CFO Patrick Jany, Henriette Hallberg Thygesen and Navneet Kapoor.
Since 2016 Soren Skou has led the transformation of Maersk from a diversified conglomerate to an integrated logistics company and set the business on a new growth trajectory.
Chair of the Maersk Board of Directors, Robert M. Uggla, said: “Soren has contributed to our Group’s development over almost 40 years, of which 11 years as CEO for Maersk Tankers, four years as CEO for Maersk Line and close to seven years as CEO for Maersk.
“During his tenure as CEO of Maersk, Soren has been instrumental in redefining Maersk into a customer centric end-to-end logistics provider with a global leadership position in sustainable transportation solutions. On behalf of the Board, I sincerely thank Soren for his valued leadership and impressive results.
“I am equally grateful for Soren’s support in the CEO succession review making sure the Company does not lose any momentum in its strategic endeavors in a changing and difficult market.”
On Vincent Clerc succeeding Soren Skou, Robert M. Uggla added: “The Board is pleased to announce Vincent Clerc as the new CEO of Maersk. Since 2019, Vincent has been the CEO of Maersk Ocean & Logistics, which contributes a significant part of the company’s invested capital and results. He has been a pivotal leader for Maersk’s transformation, demonstrating great strategic acumen, an ability to execute complex plans and deliver long term shareholder value through compelling customer solutions.
“The strong tail winds that benefited the supply chain industries during the pandemic are coming to an end. With an increasingly challenging outlook, the Board believes Vincent holds the right experience and capabilities as CEO to pursue and oversee Maersk’s strategic and organizational development in the years to come.”
Soren Skou leaves Maersk with gratitude and pride, saying: “For almost seven years I have worked together with my team to change the business model, the culture, the digital backbone, and the results to make Maersk a profitable growth company again. That was the mandate I got as CEO in 2016 and I would like to thank the Board, our main shareholder, my executive team and all my fantastic global colleagues for their trust and support throughout the years.
“Now is the right time for Maersk, for Vincent, and for me to make this transition. The Company has executed very well over the past years. We have never been stronger financially and we have an inspiring and visionary plan for the continuation of our global integrator strategy that will guide Maersk for many years to come.
“I have worked closely with Vincent for more than a decade and I am confident that he is ready to take the Company to the next level. I look forward to a new chapter in life where I will continue to work at non-executive level and have more time for my family and for other interests.”
Vincent Clerc said: “I am thrilled by the trust the Board is showing by giving me the opportunity to lead the next stages of our transformation. It is a privilege for me to lead a company with such a long heritage, strong values, and tremendous potential. I am looking forward, together with the leadership team and all the Maersk colleagues around the world, to take it to the next level, building on the very strong foundation we obtained with Soren at the helm, and delivering on our promises to customers, shareholders, and to the society at large.
“On the heels of a pandemic, and now with the war in Ukraine and an energy crisis upon us, there are many tough challenges ahead; challenges that impact us all and where Maersk can make a difference. Companies are rethinking their supply chains in this new environment, they are looking for more stability, and more support on their decarbonisation journey. This represents an incredible business opportunity for Maersk that we all are eager to seize.
“It will demand of us that we stay the course on our strategy, delivering on our digitalisation and decarbonisation roadmaps, while keeping a sharper than ever eye on our operational excellence and performance. When we do that, we will make a profound positive impact for all our stakeholders.”
KBB and Eminox issue ‘Turbo to Tailpipe’ white paper on engine emissions
Turbocharger manufacturer Kompressorenbau Bannewitz (KBB) and emissions control specialist Eminox have extended their recent technological collaboration to develop a white paper publication, ‘From turbo-to-tailpipe - minimising emissions from internal combustion engines in a net zero emissions future’, that acts as an advisory to any ship operator looking to reduce engine emissions.
As part of the maritime industry’s commitment to achieving a zero carbon future, marine diesel engines are subject to IMO Tier I and Tier II regulations. Additionally, every vessel entering specific emission control areas (ECAs), including the Baltic Sea, North Sea and North American ECAs must meet much stricter IMO Tier III targets, with tighter nitrogen oxides (NOx) emissions requirements. For vessels to be compliant when operating on European inland waterways, Stage V regulations apply, with stringent particulate matter (PM) emissions compliance.
Future legislation, including an update to the EU Stage V regulations and new IMO Tier IV regulations, are expected to set dramatically lower NOx and PM emissions targets from the early 2030s.
The flood of legislative requirements for gaseous emission reduction in the past decade has encouraged the industry’s transition to cleaner fuels. However, while alternative energy sources such as batteries and wind power can be adopted, medium-speed diesel, gas, and dual fuel engines will remain to be the de facto for marine propulsion and auxiliary power units.
The new white paper gives ship operators a vital tool when navigating emissions reductions from internal combustions engines. The paper examines key regulations and timelines and explores how recent innovation in fully integrated exhaust management solutions can enable operators to achieve more stringent emission control targets.
In 2021, KBB and Eminox launched a co-developed, fully integrated emissions control solution that provides marine engine manufacturers with the technology needed to deliver clean marine diesel engines. The KBB Eminox solution is optimised for specific engines which increases performance efficiency and the effectiveness of emissions reduction.
Aimed at medium speed engines over 1MW power, the new solution brings together KBB’s expertise in marine turbocharging and air handling with Eminox’s proven EMx exhaust aftertreatment system (EATS) technology.
“The time is now for marine operators and engine manufacturers to accelerate their emissions reduction journey,” said Dr Roman Drozdowski (pictured), Managing Director, KBB. “This white paper provides everything they need to know to do that, and we can provide an in-house solution for all their needs.”
“Diesel engines are the backbone of the marine industry, making it vital to optimise their performance to lower emissions as we move to a zero-carbon future,” added David Phillips, Engineering Director, Eminox. “However, how do we ensure that these engines are generating less emissions? Our emissions control solution is a technology that is available now to fully address all emissions requirements, now and in the future.”
IMO Secretary-General receives new President of the Comité Maritime International
IMO Secretary-General Kitack Lim received Dr Ann Fenech, new President of the Comité Maritime International (CMI), at IMO Headquarters last week.
Mr Lim and Dr Fenech, the first female President in the CMI's 125-year history, discussed continued and future collaboration, including on issues such as Maritime Autonomous Surface Ships (MASS) and fraudulent vessel registration.
The close cooperation between IMO and CMI dates back to 1967, when the Torrey Canyon oil tanker grounded off Southwestern England. Two years later, in 1969, the Civil Liability Convention was adopted at a Diplomatic Conference held in Brussels, thanks to continued joint efforts between the two organisations.
An exclusive interview with Dr Fennech appears in the November/December issue of ShipManagement International – the magazine’s 100th issue – that will be released online next week, written by Felicity Landon, winner of the Seahorse 2022 ‘Maritime Journalist of the Year’ Award.
Former Cisco CTO and Director of Innovation joins Silverstream Technologies as Chief Data Officer
Air lubrication technology specialist Silverstream Technologies has announced the appointment of Nick Chrissos (pictured) as Chief Data Officer (CDO) to lead the company’s data strategy at a pivotal time of growth for the business. Nick joins Silverstream following two decades at global technology giant Cisco, where he held various roles including Chief Technology Officer (CTO) globally for small businesses, and Director of Innovation in EMEAR.
As the innovation leader for Cisco in Europe, Middle East, Africa and Russia, Nick was involved in some of the most technologically advanced projects in the world, from smart cities and autonomous vehicles to agriculture robots and fish farming automation. During this time, he led some of the best engineering teams to create viable solutions for deploying cutting-edge technologies across multiple sectors and industries.
His appointment marks a significant moment for Silverstream as the company places increasing strategic importance on customer data to its overarching value proposition. Nick, and the existing data science team he will lead at Silverstream, will help the business fully utilise the power of its data. Through the application of advanced data analytics, AI and machine learning tools, this data can be hugely valuable to customers and support optimal use of Silverstream’s technology, as well as other aspects of ship operation.
Nick Chrissos, CDO, Silverstream Technologies, said: “Playing a central role in the evolution of Silverstream, and to the disruption of an industry that is ready for digitisation, was an opportunity that I couldn’t resist. Silverstream’s technology is already successful in the market but having the urge to take it much further, believing in the power of the data, and investing in the R&D around new solutions, defines Silverstream as an innovation leader in maritime. What we are trying to achieve requires brilliant vision and huge effort, but this all depends on the calibre of the people and the unique culture of the company underpinning it. This was for me the most critical factor when I agreed to join Silverstream.”
Noah Silberschmidt, Founder & CEO, Silverstream Technologies, said: “Bringing onboard a data and innovation leader from one of the world’s top technology organisations is very exciting for Silverstream and is another sign of where we are headed. Nick will provide strategic direction and industry-leading expertise to our data practices and will help Silverstream generate new value streams for our customers. We are at the tip of the iceberg when it comes to harnessing the true power of our data, and Nick’s experience in creating innovative products and services based on that data will prove to be a very strong asset for Silverstream in the coming years.”
Hong Kong Maritime Week 2002 successfully showcased local cluster
The sixth edition of Hong Kong Maritime Week (HKMW) was successfully concluded on 26 November 2022, report the organisers, with local industry having rendered “unstinting support”. Some 49 separate activities in total took place, ranging from conferences, seminars and forums, to visits, competition and family fun day, staged by 69 local and overseas organisations.
The Hong Kong SAR (Special Administrative Region) Chief Executive, Mr John Lee, said in a pre-recorded speech at the opening ceremony that the National 14th Five-Year Plan championed Hong Kong's status as an international shipping centre, which included the development of high value-added maritime services for better integration into China's overall progress and, more specifically, Hong Kong's place in the development of a world-class port cluster.
Speaking at the opening ceremony, the Chairman of the Hong Kong Maritime and Port Board (HKMPB) and Secretary for Transport and Logistics Mr Lam Sai-hung emphasised the utmost importance of keeping the maritime cluster vibrant.
He said that the HK SAR Government would continue to take proactive measures to fuel the development of the maritime industry, such as implementing tax concessions for shipping enterprises, the smart port initiative, and new schemes for maritime manpower development.
ABB releases 2022 edition of Generations – ‘Harnessing the power of change’
ABB is pleased to announce the release of the 2022 edition of Generations, presenting the business perspectives, ambitions and success stories of a diverse group of industry thought leaders and pioneers alongside in-depth technical insight from ABB’s in-house experts.
With ‘Harnessing the power of change’ as its theme, this year’s Generations turns the spotlight on the innovators and experts challenging convention to deliver benefits for commerce, society and the planet. It also highlights ABB’s commitment to making the maritime industry safer, smarter and more sustainable by providing innovative electric, automated and digital solutions and promoting social progress.
Readers gain insight into the measures and solutions targeting to minimize the impact of underwater radiated noise – a growing concern for shipowners worldwide – and learn how ports and transport hubs can safeguard the electric grids that serve them. Meanwhile, an Italian ferry operator describes the transition of an iconic ferry from diesel to hybrid-electric propulsion, and a Norwegian shipbuilder and designer introduces a potential ‘silver-bullet’ solution for truly sustainable shipping.
Generations 2022 also provides technical details from ABB’s research into environmentally friendly maritime solutions, including a fusion-powered container vessel concept, a fuel cell-fed hybrid power and propulsion system, vessel power trains based on hybrid batteries and fuel cells, and a hydrogen-based shore power system.
BV and ThorCon join forces to develop a molten salt nuclear power barge
Bureau Veritas and nuclear power technology developer ThorCon have entered an agreement for the Technology Qualification and the subsequent development of a 500 MW molten salt nuclear power barge for operations in Indonesia.
The concept developed by ThorCon is a molten salt fission reactor. Unlike current nuclear reactors, the ThorCon reactor operates at low pressure and uses liquid fuel. The liquid fuel enables much higher operating temperatures, leading to greater efficiency while also enabling completely passive safety (requiring no action from the operator nor intervention on the power source to stop the reaction).
The 500 MW fission power plant will be integrated within a floating barge hull and then towed to a shallow water site before being ballasted to rest on the seabed. The technology will then deliver energy to the power grid to meet land-based energy needs. ThorCon plants will be designed to be mass produced, which will support the transition to carbon free and reliable energy.
BV has been selected to support ThorCon through the Technology Qualification process, both for the nuclear reactor itself and for its encapsulation (enclosed safe compartmentalization allowing the replacement of depleted fuel) and integration with the hull systems.
Experts from Bureau Veritas’ Nuclear Certification Department and from the Marine & Offshore Division will collaborate throughout the process. A key area of work will be to identify the applicable standards, codes and Class Rules, potential gaps with those currently available and the development if needed of new guidance notes and rules.
The scope of the agreement also includes the potential development and deployment phases once the Technology Qualification is completed. At this stage, it is anticipated that the Technology Qualification process will take a minimum of three years and if successful, the deployment phase would require an additional two years.
ThorCon has entered into discussion with the Indonesian province of Bangka-Belitung, the State Electricity Company PLN, and the Nuclear Energy Regulatory Agency BAPETEN regarding potential sites for the demonstration and the final installation of a 500 MW power plant.
Laurent Leblanc, Senior Vice President Technical & Operations at Bureau Veritas Marine & Offshore, commented: “Nuclear power is increasingly seen as one of the means to achieve global decarbonization and the 1.5°C objectives. New technologies, such as molten salt reactors, open opportunities for the deployment of nuclear energy, power generation in the marine environment being an example.
“At BV we are proud to be at the forefront of safe innovation, supporting pioneers like ThorCon, by helping them assess the feasibility of new nuclear technology development up to their industrial application. Our role is to assess and address risks to ensure such technologies can be deployed with the highest safety standards. This project is very exciting as it can be a stepping-stone to other applications such as the generation of hydrogen offshore and even nuclear ship propulsion.”
Dave Devanney, CEO ThorCon, commented: “ThorCon has developed a 4th generation advanced nuclear reactor design that solves the most perplexing problem of conventional nuclear power: excessive cost. ThorCon is initially implementing its technology in Southeast Asia where the need for low-cost dispatchable carbon-free energy is urgent. Providing a practical clean solution to Southeast Asia’s growing energy needs will significantly slow global warming and climate change.”
Norton Rose Fulbright advises on financing of largest cruise ship to be built in Italy
Global law firm Norton Rose Fulbright has advised a pool of lenders on a SACE-backed shipping financing for the construction of the largest ever cruise ship to be built in Italy, MSC Seascape, built at Fincantieri, Italy.
MSC Cruises took delivery of MSC Seascape on 16 November 2022. The ship arrived in New York on 5 December, with her first sailing from Miami taking place this week.
MSC Seascape is the sister ship of MSC Seashore – also built at Fincantieri, Italy, and delivered in 2021 - and completes the innovative Seaside class of MSC. The firm’s Paris team assisted on the financing, post-closing activities and deliveries of both vessels. The financing, provided for two companies within the MSC Group, was backed by Italian export credit agency SACE.
MSC Seascape will initially sail the Caribbean seas and has an innovative design, with nearly 13,000m of outdoor space and an expansive waterfront promenade. The vessel incorporates a range of cutting-edge technologies, designed to minimise the impact on the air and marine environment, and to improve energy efficiency, air emissions, and wastewater treatment.
Norton Rose Fulbright partner and global co-head of transport Christine Ezcutari, who led the team advising on the deal, said: “It was a privilege to be able to work on the financing for this impressive cruise ship, which is not only the largest to ever be built in Italy but incorporates a range of cutting-edge technologies.”
Christine Ezcutari was supported by counsel Paolo Pinna and associate Constance Ollat.
North Group Impact Report 2022 shows year of progress as P&I Club pushes forward with North 2030 Sustainability Strategy
North P&I Club has offered an insight into the changing face of P&I, in a North Group Impact Report 2022 which also benchmarks the global marine insurer’s effectiveness in advancing towards the North 2030 Sustainability Strategy, launched last year.
“We have recognised that the need to deliver on our Strategy is more pressing than ever, with rising global temperatures, the war in Ukraine, supply chain issues and Covid 19 all testing the resilience of the shipping industry,” said Paul Jennings, Chief Executive, North.
“In addition to improving our own performance, the P&I sector must respond as a whole to the challenges facing the maritime industry. As a club headquartered in the UK’s North-East, one highlight included in the Impact Report 2022 is the agreement between all 13 members of the International Group to share safety and loss prevention data with the National Innovation Centre for Data at Newcastle University. This heralds a real prospect of finding new and innovative ways to reduce risk at sea.”
In the immediate term, the ongoing disruption to global trade caused by Russia’s invasion of Ukraine has seen North prioritising helping its Members and clients navigate “probably the most complex set of sanctions ever imposed”, added Jennings.
“There is no cover where the trade, or insurance of that trade, is unlawful,” said Mike Salthouse, Global Director (Claims), North. “Where trade is lawful, protecting innocent third parties and minimising impacts on the environment remain critical.”
Other direct responses to events in Ukraine which fell to North have included finding urgent healthcare alternatives when Ukrainian seafarers could not be repatriated.
North’s new Impact Report also assesses progress towards longer standing targets, emphasising that merging North and the Standard Club from February 2023 will empower a new NorthStandard entity to exert greater influence in securing aims on sustainability.
“The impact of climate change will be felt in claims liabilities and types, and in underwriting risks as we as move to a carbon neutral environment and adopt new technologies,” said Mark Church, Director (FD&D) and Head of Sustainability, North. “To monitor and address these developments, we have already incorporated climate related risks within our existing risk management framework.”
This year, North introduced its first set of Sustainability Claims Reporting Guidelines, which have been developed so that the Club can measure and improve the impacts its day to day claims handling activities from the perspective of sustainability. North has intensified its programmes of advisory events covering sustainability issues, while the new report also offers insights into work trialling biofuels on an existing ship by North Member d’Amico.
The Impact Report cites Clarksons Research October 2022 figures which indicate that a record 59% of all newbuilding orders had been classed as alternative-fuel capable - up from 31.5% a year earlier. “As our latest Impact Report makes clear, wherever and whenever we are needed, North will be there to aid and support transition,” said Jennings.
Lord Jeffrey Mountevans appointed new Baltic Exchange Chairman
Lord Jeffrey Mountevans has been appointed Chairman of the Baltic Exchange Council with effect from 1 January 2023. He succeeds Denis Petropoulos, who has held the position since June 2019.
A former Lord Mayor of London (2015/2016) and ex-Clarksons shipbroker, Lord Mountevans is an elected hereditary cross-bench member of the House of Lords where he plays an active role on maritime, defence and Reserves and Cadet issues. He was made an Honorary Life Member of the Baltic Exchange in 2016.
The Baltic Exchange Council is the Baltic Exchange's governing body which sets its strategy for membership services, social responsibility and charities as well as relationships with members, government, regulatory bodies and the wider shipping industry.
Commenting on the appointment, Baltic Exchange Chief Executive Mark Jackson said: “I would like to thank Denis Petropoulos for his tireless support as Chairman and look forward to working closely with Lord Mountevans. He is a highly respected, energetic and well-known figure in the maritime world whose experience and wise counsel will be of great benefit to me and the Baltic Exchange. The Baltic Council is a key body which gives voice to our international membership and ensures that our products and services meet their needs.”
Lord Mountevans said: “I have always been a passionate supporter of the Baltic Exchange and its vital role within the shipping community in London and beyond. The coming years are crucial in the Baltic's development as a provider of trusted data and standards as the industry grapples with digitisation and decarbonisation. I hope to ensure that the members’ needs are met and to promote the Baltic Exchange at the highest levels."
Lord Mountevans served as Chairman of Maritime London from 2013-2021 and Chairman of Maritime UK (2014-2015). He was Chairman of the Advisory Board for London International Shipping Week 2015, 17, 19 and 21. In 2015 he chaired the Maritime Growth Study, a major study of UK maritime competitiveness for the Department for Transport, which charted a wide ranging strategy for promoting Britain’s maritime industries.
Lord Mountevans has been involved in shipbroking for 40 years and was Managing Director of Gas at Clarksons from 2001-14. His many maritime enthusiasms include the Royal Navy, where he is proud to serve as an Honorary Captain RNR.
Flying Angel Campaign 2023 launched by the Mission to Seafarers
The Mission to Seafarers has launched its new Flying Angel Campaign 2023 with the goal of raising US$700,000 (£600,000) to respond to the changing needs of seafarers’ welfare. The funds generated will enable the Mission to not only maintain its vital lifeline to seafarers and their families but also, to expand into new services in response to the evolving global needs.
Proceeds from the Flying Angel Campaign 2023 will be used to address the following areas of needs:
Ship Visiting Fund –– For the development of ship visiting programmes in new and existing locations to reach more seafarers and enhance the mental health first aid training of frontline staff, including that of suicide awareness.
Seafarers Centres Fund –– For the modernisation of Seafarers Centres to ensure a wider service can be offered. As Mission develops and implements its own ESG principles, centre modernisation will involve sustainable and environmental solutions, the enhancement of green spaces, and the maximisation of renewable energy usage.
Seafarers Awareness Fund –– To ensure all seafarers know where and how they can access help and support, especially in relation to mental health and suicide awareness, via targeted marketing campaigns and the dissemination of information through organisations, associations, companies, and conferences.
Justice & Welfare Fund –– Advocating for seafarers in urgent need of practical, emotional or financial assistance, or representation - particularly those who are abandoned. Mission’s Justice & Welfare services are a vital tool for seafarers in obtaining outstanding wages, repatriation, food and water, as well as assistance for families surviving without income.
General Fund –– To be spent where most needed in support of Mission’s global operations, including areas to further diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI). Seafarers and their families face unprecedented tribulation because of ongoing stressors caused by global events, necessitating the allocation of unrestricted resources in unforeseen areas of need.
There are a range of benefits in recognition of donors’ sponsorship which include media announcements, impact reports and exclusive updates with key Mission personnel, as well as providing support for donor’s own corporate social responsibility (CSR) policies and goals.
Jan Webber, Director of Development, The Mission to Seafarers, commented: “We were extremely grateful to the industry donors who stepped up during the pandemic to assist our emergency work through our two previous campaigns. We appeal to industry once again to help us with whatever size donation they can manage. Seafarers’ welfare needs are continuing to evolve.
“Without the Mission, many seafarers would suffer more mental health and emotional issues, so we believe we are contributing to the safety of seafaring globally, but we need the funds to do this.
“The range of funds available will ensure we reach seafarers in ports and centres, but also raise awareness as new generations of seafarers join the 1.7m workforce, so they too can access our services more immediately. If we can provide the mental health support to just a few seafarers, and this helps save lives then we will have achieved our goal.
“We are deeply grateful to those who donate to the Mission. Please join them in helping shipping’s greatest asset – its seafarers.”
Together with colleagues across the maritime industry, the deepening of partnerships and an emphasis on collective action has been one of the great benefits to come out of the pandemic years, as shown by the success of the Mission’s previous fundraising campaigns.
The 2023 Flying Angel Campaign follows on from the Mission’s Flying Angel Campaign 2020 and Sustaining Crew Welfare 2021, which raised a combined total of £1.2m. These campaigns were launched in response to seafarers’ immediate needs during the pandemic and ongoing challenges caused by the crisis.
The impact of funds generated saw enhanced access to digital welfare solutions, PPE provisions, Family Support Services, and improved connectivity between seafarers and their families. Funding also contributed towards innovation and regional support with investment into Mission’s new comprehensive Happy at Sea App which aims to reach thousands of seafarers.
Undergoing its first stage of development as a Key Welfare Hub, the Mission’s Rotterdam operation includes the appointment of a second Chaplain to cover the huge need in this vast port. Remaining funds supported Mission’s global operations, ensuring security of service for seafarers severely impacted by the pandemic, as well as those affected by the war in Ukraine.
Shipping will overcome challenges and thrive in 2023, says ICS Greek Branch
The shipping industry can overcome geopolitical challenges and thrive, said the Institute of Chartered Shipbrokers Greek Branch at its 17th Annual Forum. The recent event, 'Moving Forward with the World in Turmoil', was held on December 7 at the Eugenides Foundation and was broadcasted live around the world.
Natalia Margioli - Komninou FICS, Managing Director of the ICS Greek Branch and Hellenic Management Centre - welcomed the Minister of Maritime Affairs & Insular Policy, Giannis Plakiotakis, the British Ambassador to Greece, Matthew Lodge and the Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Europe, Leo Docherty. Ms Margioli explained how this year’s theme aimed to capture the many challenges facing stakeholders.
She said: "Shipping companies have continued to advance the skills of their human resources and this has contributed to the resilient character and progression demonstrated by Greek professionals. Continuous professional development and education is integral to navigating an increasingly complex world."
Nicolas A. Tsavliris, FICS, Chairman of the ICS Greek Branch and Tsavliris Salvage Group addressed a very warm welcome to the attendees of the Forum, saying: "The shipping industry remains resilient, robust and adaptable. Historically, it always emerges stronger after challenging times and the ICS has an important role play in these unpredictable times."
A special address was made by H.E. Minister of Maritime Affairs and Insular Policy, Mr Ioannis Plakiotakis. The Minister noted the importance of the transport sector in ensuring resilient supply chains and creating reliable mechanisms for vessels to move smoothly and safely worldwide. He remarked that we are undergoing a radical transformation towards non-fossil fuel-based shipping.
A panel discussion followed, which covered ESG policy, as well as how to support and develop the next generation of shipbrokers. There was a vibrant interaction between the audience and panellists who offered their expertise and insight.
The panel included the following distinguished speakers: Alexandra Couvadelli, Senior Claims Director (P&I and FD&D), Thomas Miller Hellas; Polys V. Hajioannou, Chairman/CEO, Safe Bulkers Inc; Thanasis Martinos, Managing Director, Eastern Mediterranean Maritime Ltd; George Prokopiou, Founder, Dynacom Tankers Management Ltd., Dynagas Ltd. and Sea Traders S.A; Stephen Thompson, Global Head of LNG, Poten & Partners; Eri Tsironi, Chief Financial Officer, Navios Maritime Partners LP; and Simon Ward, FICS, Director, Ursa Shipbrokers.
World first as ABS approves Provaris’ design for a compressed H2 carrier
ABS has reviewed and approved the design of Provaris’ H2Neo compressed H2 carrier, an industry first for a bulk hydrogen gas carrier.
The significant project milestone follows extensive ABS Engineering review of Front-End Engineering Design and enables the appointment of a shipyard for final construction design of the 26,000m3 H2Neo carrier and an operational vessel by 2026. The next steps will be prototype testing followed by shipyard selection and detailed designs for construction.
“ABS recognizes the potential that hydrogen shows in supporting a sustainable, lower carbon future,” said Patrick Ryan, ABS Senior Vice President, Global Engineering and Technology. “Safe and efficient storage and transportation of hydrogen at sea will be critical to the development and viability of the global hydrogen value chain.
“We have been working closely with Provaris, initially granting AIP in 2021 and subsequently reviewing their comprehensive FEED level package for the H2Neo. ABS is pleased to award Provaris approval of their design, and we look forward to continuing this relationship into continued testing and construction stages of H2Neo carriers, including a yard selection process, and to support Provaris during ship operations on the numerous, interesting projects on the H2 horizon.”
Provaris’ Managing Director & Chief Executive Officer, Martin Carolan said: “Compressed H2 can deliver a safe, economic and energy efficient hydrogen shipping and transport solution that is essential to meet the climate targets for 2030 and beyond. Provaris has set itself ambitious targets for the detailed engineering and approvals required to develop the H2Neo carrier, and I am pleased to say our team has delivered on-time and under-budget a unique approach to marine hydrogen transport that is also a world first.
“Our marketing program over 2022 continues to raise the awareness of compressed H2 as a first mover and feasible alternative for regional hydrogen trade. We expect this approval milestone to assist with the validation requirements in our commercialization pipeline, and transition Provaris to construction-ready status in 2023.”
Port of Felixstowe deploys first autonomous trucks
In a ground-breaking move, Hutchison Ports‘ says its Port of Felixstowe, UK is believed to be the first port in Europe to introduce autonomous terminal tractor units (ATs) into mixed traffic container terminal operations. The first two battery-powered units to enter service at the UK's largest container port have been supplied by manufacturer Westwell.
Commenting on the new equipment, Clemence Cheng, Chief Executive Officer at the Port of Felixstowe, said: "These new autonomous trucks represent a significant technological step forward for the Port of Felixstowe. The tools underpinning port operations have evolved continuously and we already have a range of very advanced systems and equipment in place but this is the first time we will have wholly driverless vehicles.
"Safety is our No.1 priority. This applies equally to technological developments and especially when introducing new equipment into live terminal operations. The ATs have a range of built-in safety features which will allow them to navigate effectively and safely within our container terminals."
The autonomous trucks use a digital map which is loaded to a fleet management system that controls the navigation around the port. The AT then combines that map with its on-board GPS navigation to track its real-time position.
Project Director, and Hutchison Ports UK Chief Information Officer, Karen Poulter explained: "The Port of Felixstowe has a long record of innovation and we are very excited by this latest development at the port. The ATs use LiDAR - a light sensing technology that creates a 3D map of an AT's surroundings using a laser and receiver, which, when combined with its on-board 360-degree cameras, provide real-time, all-round 'vision'. This enables it to 'see' everything instantaneously in its vicinity to allow safe and accurate navigation.
"With the support of Extreme Precise Position (EPP) system, it can achieve positioning accuracy of 2cm and a steering angle accuracy of 0.5 degrees."
The ATs have been through a thorough commissioning and testing programme. They are to be used initially to transport containers between the port's Trinity and North Rail terminals.
PIL launches new South China Philippines (SCP) Service
With the aim of enhancing its Intra-Asia network, Pacific International Lines (PIL) is pleased to announce the launch of a new weekly direct service, South China Philippines (SCP) service, which connects ports in South China to the Philippines.
Commencing 3 January 2023, the SCP service will provide weekly sailings which offer a comprehensive coverage of the ports in South China – Xiamen, Nansha and Shekou, and link them to Manila and Cebu in the Philippines. SCP will be served jointly by a consortium of two (2) vessels of average capacity of 800 TEUs.
Mr Surendran Mathilagath, General Manager, Intra Asia Services, PIL, said, “We are pleased to introduce this new SCP service, as part of our commitment to our customers to continually seek better connections and deliver quality services. The Philippine economy is forecasted to do well over the next few years, driven by healthy post pandemic domestic demand. In addition, the implementation of the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP) agreement is also expected to benefit China-Philippines trade. The introduction of this new SCP service is therefore timely and will meet growing demand from customers for stronger trade linkages between the two countries.”
The ports of call for the SCP service are: Xiamen – Nansha – Shekou – Manila – Cebu – Xiamen.
Currently, PIL has two weekly services from Singapore to the Philippines - the North Philippines Service (NPE) and the South Philippines Service (SPE), connecting Subic Bay, Manila North, Davao and General Santos in the Philippines to Singapore.
Nor-Shipping brings Captains Without Borders onboard with Mercy Ships
Nor-Shipping has announced that its 2023 show, taking place in Oslo and Lillestrøm, June 6-9, will support two charity partners for the first time ever. Captains Without Borders, which helps disadvantaged marine cadets from diverse backgrounds, will now join campaigning medical charity Mercy Ships in receiving vital financial support and industry promotion throughout Nor-Shipping week.
Mercy Ships has partnered with Nor-Shipping since 2019, using last year’s programme to highlight the launch of its latest vessel, Global Mercy™, the world’s largest NGO hospital ship. The charity, which was formed in 1978 and has delivered life-transforming services to over 2.8million people, looks to ‘Your Arena for Ocean Solutions’ for assistance with fund-raising and developing crucial industry networks.
Captains Without Borders, says Per Martin Tanggaard, Nor-Shipping Director External Relations, can look forward to similar benefits as it seeks to boost awareness of its important mission.
“At Nor-Shipping we’re committed to supporting sustainable success in the ocean space, and that extends far beyond the commercial arena,” Tanggaard notes. “Captains Without Borders is a new organisation aiming to facilitate maritime opportunities for ambitious young seafarers who, without their help, might struggle to receive the necessary education and experience.
“They can help individuals, of course, but also the industry itself – enabling greater diversity and opening up new channels for talent acquisition and development. We’re delighted to welcome them onboard.”
The charity, based in the US, provides educational scholarships for cadets, while also working to connect them with mentors and develop valuable maritime networks. It was founded by Captain Alexandra Hagerty, a well-known industry figure and a captain of the Mercy Ships vessel Africa Mercy.
Speaking about Mercy Ships, Tanggaard adds: “They deliver first-class medical care, services and expertise to some of the world’s most disadvantaged communities. They save and transform lives on a daily basis, and the more support they receive, the greater their impact.
“As far as we’re concerned, we can help by providing access to our unique audience of global industry decisionmakers, many of whom will appreciate Mercy Ships’ vision and values, and be keen to provide support. With #PartnerShip as the main theme of Nor-Shipping 2023, it makes perfect sense for us to bring these two admirable organisations together, helping them connect, communicate and collaborate with leading ocean business players.”
Both Mercy Ships and Captains Without Borders are funded entirely by charitable donors and volunteers.
Alongside a growing fleet of hospital vessels, Mercy Ships provides training to local people and renovates medical facilities to deliver ongoing benefits for communities, particularly in the sub-Sahara region of Africa.
Nor-Shipping 2023 will gather ocean industry and maritime stakeholders from across the globe, with a 22,000 m2 exhibition showcasing the very latest innovations, services and solutions.
Alongside the main show, a knowledge sharing and networking activity programme offers “something for everyone”, including the C-level Ocean Leadership Conference, Blue Talks, The Fourth International Autonomy Summit, AfterWork social schedule, and much more.
Thomas Miller appoints new Group Chief Operating Officer
Insurance services provider Thomas Miller, has announced it has strengthened its senior management team with the promotion of Fiona Cowie (pictured) to Group Chief Operating Officer and Vanessa Luty to Group HR Director.
Fiona Cowie joined Thomas Miller in 2016 and was appointed Chief of Staff in 2021. Fiona has three decades of HR experience in the financial and professional services space, after an early career as an Army Officer. Fiona has worked for PwC, Pinsent Curtis and Pitney Bowes amongst others. In her new position, Fiona’s focus will be on the delivery of key corporate initiatives across the Group.
Vanessa Luty joined Thomas Miller as Senior HR Business Partner in 2018 and was promoted to Head of HR in May 2021. Before joining Thomas Miller, Vanessa worked for Bird & Bird LLP and Olswang. In her new role, Vanessa will take over full leadership of the Group HR function from Fiona Cowie.
Hugh Titcomb, CEO of Thomas Miller, says: “Fiona and Vanessa have impressive track records within both Thomas Miller and in other organisations. I look forward to continuing to work with them in their new roles as we continue the development of the Thomas Miller business.”
Former Global Head of BP Shipping Guy Mason appointed as new IFAN Chairman
The International Foundation for Aids to Navigation (IFAN) has announced the appointment of its new Chairman, former Global Head of BP Shipping Guy Mason.
Mr Mason (pictured), who was appointed into the position at a recent IFAN Board Meeting held in Bahrain, replaces the outgoing Chairman Alan Marsh who steps down after three years in the post. He joined the IFAN Board in March this year having retired from BP at the end of 2020 as Senior Vice President and Global Head of Shipping.
After accepting the role, Mr Mason thanked Alan Marsh, for his service to IFAN and for his willingness to remain on IFAN’s Board. He praised Mr Marsh’s continued support in encouraging ship owners to pay MENAS navigational light dues to maintain safer routes for vessels and crew.
“Alan Marsh has been an exemplary Chairman, so I look forward to following in his footsteps and continuing IFAN’s good work to make oceans safer while trying to hold ship owners accountable for the safety of their vessels and crews onboard,” Mr Mason said.
Peter Stanley, IFAN CEO, congratulated Guy Mason on taking on the new role saying: “We’re delighted that Alan Marsh is staying on the Board of Directors as he’s a valuable asset to the organisation. We’re equally pleased to welcome Guy Mason into his new role and look forward to forging ahead in our support of projects to bring safety to the forefront in our role of maintaining Aids to Navigation for safer oceans for all.”
Mr Mason said there were a number of issues on his immediate list of priorities. These included identifying ‘really great’ projects that IFAN can support financially, that are going to make a difference to boosting standards of navigational safety at sea, as well as supporting the valuable safe navigation service that IFAN subsidiary, the Middle East Navigation Aids Service (MENAS), supplies to ship owners and operators in the Middle East Gulf.
“The vast majority of the ship owners and operators happily pay for this important service, where the income we receive pretty much closely matches the cost of maintaining the infrastructure both of the buoys and the DGPS system,” he said.
Philippines’ President orders creation of advisory body on seafarer issues
Global leaders from organisations representing seafarers, shipowners and other maritime employers this week met with President Ferdinand Marcos Jr, as part of his foreign policy tour in Brussels (pictured). Top of the agenda was the immediate concern of employers and crew that as many as 50,000 seafarers faced being barred from crewing European Union-flagged vessels over qualification issues, reports a joint statement by IMEC (International Maritime Employers’ Council and ITF (International Transport Workers’ Federation).
The EU threat is due to a warning from the bloc’s maritime regulator that the Philippines needed to address unacceptable deficiencies in crew’s education, training and certification. Failure to do so would push out Filipino seafarers, a labour source so critical that one delegate described as ‘too big to fail’.
President Marcos said he had ordered creation of a new advisory board, to be made up of employers, shipowners and unions and the ILO, to give expert advice on major maritime issues. This International Advisory Committee on Global Maritime Affairs (IACGMA) would draw on experts from both industry and the workforce to support the Philippines’ government, with IMEC, ICS (the international Chamber of Shipping), ITF and the ILO (International Labour Organization) all invited to share their expertise.
Delegates were reassured to hear Marcos pledge that his administration will do “everything” to address these deficiencies identified by the European Commission’s Maritime Safety Agency (EMSA) “to prevent job losses among Filipino seafarers,” he said.
Reform was also promised of the country's seafarer claims industry where ‘ambulance-chasing’ lawyers target seafarers in order to defraud employers, reported the IMEC/ITF joint statement.
The industry delegation meeting with President Marcos Jr included representatives of the ICS, IMEC, ITF, ECSA (European Shipowners’ Associations), Royal Belgian Shipowners’ Association and ICS Hong Kong.
Further background on the seafarer training situation in the Philippines can be found in the cover story of the latest issue of SMI magazine available on this website.
Fuel sustainability at centre of decarbonisation, says DNV’s latest Maritime Forecast to 2050
The 2022 version of DNV’s ‘Maritime Forecast to 2050’ provides insights into the fuels that will propel tomorrow’s ships, and how decarbonisation journey driven by regulation, financiers and customer choices could impact fuel cost.
More specifically, the report focuses on fuel availability and infrastructure to tackle the shift to carbon-neutral fuels.
Findings from the report include:
- The drive to decarbonize shipping is accelerating and shifting focus to calculating lifecycle GHG emissions and ensuring fuel sustainability.
- An estimated 30 to 90 billion USD per year is needed to scale up fuel production, distribution, and bunkering infrastructure to supply 100% carbon-neutral fuels by 2050.
- The largest investments are required in scenarios with high uptake of electrofuels.
- Onshore investments and the more expensive energy sources for fuel production could together lead to annual fuel costs 70% to 100% greater in 2050 than today.
- No carbon-neutral fuel emerges as a clear winner, but DNV research reveals under what conditions each fuel will proliferate.
The full report is downloadable from the DNV website.
Maersk and SunGas Renewables sign strategic green methanol partnership
As part of its strategy to decarbonize customers’ supply chains, A.P. Moller – Maersk (Maersk) has entered a green methanol Letter of Intent with US-based SunGas Renewables, Inc., a spin-out of GTI Energy, and a leader in providing technology and equipment systems for large-scale production of renewable fuels.
This is Maersk’s 9th such partnership to drive the acceleration of global production capacity for green methanol - ‘green’ being defined by Maersk as fuels with low (65-80% reduction) or very low (80-95% reduction) GHG emissions on a lifecycle basis compared to fossil fuel.
The Letter of Intent covers the production of green methanol from multiple facilities to be developed by SunGas in the United States from which Maersk intends to offtake full volumes of green methanol.The first facility is expected to begin operations in 2026 and have an annual production capacity of approximately 390,000 tonnes.
“Securing green marine fuels at a global scale within this decade will require rapid scale up of green methanol production capacity using a variety of technology and feedstock pathways,” says Emma Mazhari, Head of Green Sourcing and Portfolio Management, A.P. Moller – Maersk“.
“We are very pleased to welcome SunGas Renewables as a strategic partner in our efforts to achieve our goal of net zero greenhouse gas emissions in 2040 across our entire business, and to ensure meaningful progress is made within this decade in line with the Paris Agreement.”
The SunGas facilities will utilize its flagship System 1000 platform to convert sustainably sourced residues from the forestry and wood products industries into green methanol.
“Our partnership with Maersk marks an important milestone for SunGas as we continue our mission to make a global impact in the energy transition,” says Robert Rigdon, CEO of SunGas. “We applaud Maersk’s leadership in catalyzing decarbonization of the entire marine shipping industry and look forward to working together to accelerate growth of production capacity for green methanol marine fuels.”
SunGas joins eight other strategic partners working to supply the green fuel needed for the 19 methanol enabled container vessels Maersk currently has on order. The other partners are Carbon Sink, CIMC ENRIC, Debo, European Energy, Green Technology Bank, Orsted, Proman, and Wastefuel.
*
Tatham & Co expand into Greek market
Maritime and commercial law firm, Tatham & Co., today announced its expansion into the Greek market with the addition of a senior Athens-based lawyer to its growing team.
Ioanna Vitta brings with her over 30 years of experience, specialising in dry shipping. A qualified Greek and English lawyer, Ioanna is also a well regarded and well-known figure in Piraeus and Athens.
The move comes following the addition of Chris Farmer, a solicitor Master Mariner, who joined the team earlier in the year to increase the firm’s Admiralty capability. Bringing in an experienced lawyer based in Greece is the next step for Tatham & Co. in consolidating its business in this area and in supporting its Mediterranean clients and the wider shipping industry.
Tatham & Co. Senior Partner Simon Tatham said:
“The recruitment of Ioanna Vitta marks an important moment in the firm’s development, and we are both delighted and excited.
Being retained regularly by blue-chip Greek shipowners, having a highly experienced and respected solicitor on-hand in Greece is a perfect fit for us. Ioanna is a senior member of the Athens legal community, she has a strong following herself and is known, respected and instructed by owners and the Piraeus based Clubs alike.
Most importantly for the firm’s clients, Ioanna will have the back-up of a strong and growing team in London covering dry, wet, marine insurance and special situations. The Admiralty and Crisis Response team has been strengthened on the wet side by the arrival of Chris Farmer [from Inces] and with a further senior ex-Master Mariner solicitor joining us in the New Year, we will be working closely with Ioanna to ensure that our Greek clients are given the best possible service.”
Led by founding partners Stephen Askins, Simon Tatham, and James Hickland, Tatham & Co. continues to grow and win recognition in the industry and this new hire further strengthens its reputation and reach.
Recent accolades include being honoured by the Law Society as the ‘best in its category’ in 2021, as well as the recent success in the Court of Appeal in the widely reported Tilawa case involving treasure salvage and issues of sovereign immunity.
ABS launches ‘Requirements for Onboard Carbon Capture’
Working with shipyards, ship owners and operators, ABS has developed what it calls an industry-leading set of requirements on the application of carbon capture technology at sea.
ABS says experience and insight derived from pioneering carbon capture projects with stakeholders such as shipyards, ship owners and original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) have informed development of its ‘Requirements for Onboard Carbon Capture’.
“Carbon capture could be a key transformational technology for shipping to achieve net-zero emissions by 2050,” said Georgios Plevrakis, ABS Vice President, Global Sustainability. “ABS is working with leading organizations to support safe development of the technology, which is still maturing but shows genuine promise.
“The requirements we have developed are a key step toward harnessing the potential of carbon capture to tackle the challenge of the energy transition for our industry.”
The requirements, which are downloadable from the ABS website, also include an optional Ready notation for vessels based on their level of preparation, or readiness, for future OCCS (Onboard Carbon Capture and Storage) installations.
Proman Stena Bulk takes delivery of fourth methanol-fuelled tanker Stena Prosperous
Proman Stena Bulk, the joint venture between leading tanker company Stena Bulk and the leading methanol producer Proman, has successfully taken delivery of a further methanol-fuelled tanker, Stena Prosperous.
The 49,990 DWT vessel was successfully delivered from Guangzhou Shipyard International Co Ltd (GSI) and will now enter commercial operation running fully on methanol.
The delivery caps a marquee year for the joint venture, which now has four vessels actively trading and bunkering fully on the low-emission future fuel. The fourth ship joins the Proman Stena Bulk-owned Stena Pro Patria and Stena Pro Marine, and the Proman-owned Stena Promise, which were all delivered in 2022.
The joint venture fleet has already loaded methanol fuel in Ulsan, Trinidad and Rotterdam in the past year, with other major bunkering hubs to follow in 2023.
A fourth vessel entering into service underlines Proman Stena Bulk’s commitment to unlocking a more sustainable maritime sector in the immediate term by driving the uptake of methanol as a marine fuel.
Stena Prosperous, like the other methanol-fuelled joint venture vessels, has an unprecedently low EEDI (Energy Efficiency Design Index) value while running on methanol. The IMOIIMeMax vessel series benefits from industry-leading design improvements and technologies to maximise energy efficiency and minimise fuel consumption, resulting in an EEDI 11% below the 2025 Phase 3 requirements and setting a new benchmark for mid-range tankers.
Moreover, the vessels’ future-proofed engine designs make the ships ready to achieve every incoming emissions reduction target, as greater quantities of very low-carbon blue and renewable methanol becomes available for blending and bunkering in the near future.
Stena Prosperous will use approximately 12,500 tonnes of methanol as fuel per year. Conventional methanol from natural gas, which is widely available, virtually eliminates SOx and particulate matter, cuts NOx by 60%, and reduces CO2 emissions from the vessel’s operations by up to 15% on a tank-to-wake basis, compared to conventional marine fuels.
Erik Hånell, President and CEO of Stena Bulk, said: "It’s fantastic to be able to end 2022 with a fourth methanol tanker joining our joint venture fleet. These vessels are truly pioneering and meet the highest standards of safety, sustainability and efficiency, laying down a marker for what is already possible today through progressive partnerships like ours with Proman.”
Anita Gajadhar, Managing Director, Marketing and Logistics, Proman added: “We are immensely proud of what our joint venture with Stena Bulk has been able to achieve over the last year. We now have four vessels in operation running on methanol as a marine fuel, which proves that methanol isn’t a future fuel – it’s a today fuel. Its highly scalable and commercially viable decarbonisation pathway means it is one of best solutions for shipowners to meet sustainability commitments and every incoming emissions target that the maritime industry will face.”
The news of Stena Prosperous’s delivery comes as interest in methanol as a marine fuel reaches new heights. In October 2022, methanol ships were the leading category of newbuild ships on order, and MAN Energy Solutions estimates that around 25% of its order pipeline is for methanol engines across a range of vessel classes.
Cold comfort for carriers, as resilient reefer spot rates finally fall : Xeneta
One of the most steady performers in the ocean freight spot market has finally begun to follow the wider industry trend, as rates for reefer containers from North Europe to China lock into a downward trajectory.
According to the latest real-time data from Xeneta, rates on the key corridor have fallen from a long-term average of around USD 5 000 per unit to USD 4 300. The pace of the decline is now accelerating, from edging below USD 5 000 in early October to dropping 11% month-on-month in the first two weeks of December alone.
“After demonstrating singular stability in a rapidly changing pandemic market, the winds of change are clearly blowing for this major reefer trade,” notes Peter Sand (pictured), Xeneta’s Chief Analyst.
“We saw spot rates remain largely static for much of 2021 and 2022, hovering around USD 5 000. As rates were falling market-wide, reefers stayed strong, especially on this route, a dry container back-haul.
“However, the combination of weak demand, dropping volumes and a supply chain that is now freeing itself from congestion (with less volumes overall) is applying real downward pressure on prices. Our data suggested this was coming and now, as with the rest of the market, the trend is clear for all to see.”
Although prices have remained resilient, Sand points out that volumes have actually been declining from Q2 2021. From a stable start in Q1, he notes that demand evaporated for the remainder of the year, eventually resulting in a drop of 19.5% in volumes year-on-year (from 304,000 TEU in 2020). This continued in the early months of 2022, with demand initially collapsing by 36%.
“We now appear to have found a balance,” he adds, “with October ending as the first month of year-on-year volume growth since March 2021. Nevertheless, it wasn’t enough to protect the rates which are adjusting to the now established market and macroeconomic fortunes.”
Sand concludes: “But, it’s worth remembering that, relatively speaking, reefer rates on this corridor are still strong. In the pre-pandemic days of 2019, the average unit spot price for a 40” reefer was USD 2 185. That shows current strength, of course, but it also suggests there’s potential for them to fall a great deal more. Time, and the data, will tell.”
Despite the “bumpy ride” experienced on the main China trade, reefer imports from North Europe to North Asia and Southeast Asia have remained robust. After a year-on-year growth in volumes of 8.7% in 2021, another 6.4% has been added across the first ten months of 2022 for North Asia. Southeast Asian import volumes have declined, however, but only by 1.8%.
International Underwriting Association announces new Chair
Phil Hobbs (pictured), President and Managing Director of Liberty Special Markets, has been elected as the new Chair of the International Underwriting Association (IUA). He replaces Rob Kuchinski, Head of Commercial Insurance at Zurich UK, who is retiring.
Mr Hobbs has been a member of the IUA Board since March 2019 and was previously a Deputy Chair of the association. His election took place at a meeting of the IUA Board on 14 December and he will formally assume the role of IUA Chair from Mr Kuchinski on 1 January 2023.
Dave Matcham, Chief Executive of the IUA, said “Our Board is responsible for setting the overall strategy of our organisation and is made up of senior leaders from across the company market. It has been led with great effectiveness by Mr Kuchinski for the past two years – a period that has seen overall IUA membership grow to record levels. I would like to thank him for his dedicated support and wish him well in his retirement.
“Phil Hobbs is well placed to take on the role of Chair, He is already a respected contributor to Board discussions and a well-regarded leader in our market. In early January we will be publishing the IUA’s business plan for the year ahead. I look forward to working with him as we deliver the member services promised in this document and support the development of new digital services for the company market.
Mr Hobbs said: “The IUA performs a vital function for our industry, advocating with authority on technical underwriting and claims matters for specialty lines. I am pleased to be leading the association as it continues working towards its mission to secure an optimal trading environment for London insurance and reinsurance companies.”
COLUMBIA GROUP CELEBRATES OPENING OF STATE-OF-THE-ART INTEGRATED MARITIME AND LOGISTICS SERVICES HUB IN MANILA
The Columbia Group has reinforced its commitment to the delivery of service excellence to the Philippines market and beyond, by opening a world-class integrated maritime and logistics services hub.
CSM Manila will offer a variety of ship management and maritime-related services including the development of new logistics and ship performance solutions.
Located in a brand new 650 sq m office in Aseana City, Metro-Manila, CSM Manila brings together dedicated teams of up to 70 people, specialised in technical management, crew management and training, procurement and catering. All backed up by CSM’s Performance Optimisation Control Room technology. It is headed up by Tychonas Agisilaou, who will be permanently based in Manila.
In addition, Senator Crewing, a Columbia manning agency established in Manila for 33 years, has relocated to a new office next to CSM Manila. The new Senator Crewing office provides 1,070 square metres of office space for 66 employees and extends the reach of CSM’s services in the Philippines even more.
Participants at the inauguration of CSM Manila and Senator Crewing included Capt Leonid Zalenski, CSM Group Chief Operating Officer; Capt Faouzi Fradi, CSM Group Director, Crewing and Training; and Demetris Chrysostomou, CSM Managing Director Asia Region & Group Director Business Development.
Welcoming the opening of the new offices, Capt Fradi said it was part of CSM’s strong focus on seafarers’ development and employees’ well-being. “We know that when employees are happy, the crew on board ship performs at its best, and clients are extremely satisfied,” he said.
Capt Zalenski added: “This represents an excellent development for Senator Crewing and CSM Manila as these offices will deliver the right quality level of services demanded by the market. I look forward to further expansion in years to come.”
Columbia’s commitment to seafarer development during the maritime industry’s time of rapid digitalisation is also evidenced by its exclusive partnership with the Nautilus Pacific Training Centre in Manila, which enables CSM to train up to 5,000 seafarers in the Philippines per year with the most advanced training programmes in the industry. Nautilus is equipped with state-of-the-art simulators with the latest Wärtsilä technology to bring the highest quality training to seafarers. This high-tech equipment includes two 270 º full mission bridge simulators, one with aft view and ice navigation capabilities, and one with vertical screens across numerous ship models and navigation areas. The Nautilus Pacific Training Centre also has full mission liquid cargo handling and engine room simulators as well as the first survival craft simulator in the Philippines.
CSM has placed its own Hologram Technology at the Training Centre enabling distant training using high-tech technology. The advanced training at Nautilus is focused on preparing CSM seafarers with the knowledge and skills that will enable the safe operation and management of vessels worldwide.
caption: Left to Right: Capt. Faouzi Fradi, Columbia Group Director Crewing and Training; Thorsten Franz, Senator Crewing (Manila) Director; Capt. Leonid Zalenski, Columbia Group Chief Operating Officer
-ENDS-
Solar Power Generation System Installed at Seafarers’ Training Facility in Philippines
Kawasaki Kisen Kaisha, Ltd. (“K” LINE) announced that its overseas subsidiary had installed a solar power generation system on the roof of building named Ocean Breeze ("the Building") which was constructed in 2018 to strengthen and expand our seafarer’s training facility “K” Line Maritime Academy Philippines ("KLMA") in Pasay, Metro Manila. Such system will cover the electricity usage of KLMA, which is located adjacent to Ocean Breeze Building.
KLMA is a comprehensive training facility that provides education and training using real equipment not only for Filipino seafarers but also for seafarers of all nationalities on “K” LINE-operated vessels. The facility is equipped with a latest ship handling simulator, an engine room simulator, and a platform that replicates an engine room for hazard simulation training. The Ocean Breeze building was fully furnished in March 2018 with a clinic for seafarers equipped with latest medical equipment and accommodations for 225 trainees and ready to receive 10,000 trainees per year. After the spread of COVID-19, the accommodations were also used as pre-boarding isolation facility and vaccination center. KLMA has been in operation since its predecessor, "K" Line Maritime Training Corporation (KMTC, established in 1993) and will be celebrating its 30th anniversary in 2023.
The region has a mild climate and long hours of sunshine throughout the year, and the Building is located in a sunny seaside area. The system has the capacity to generate more than 150 kWh of electricity required for KLMA's use.
On December 8th, the handover ceremony for the system was solemnly held with the attendance of Yukikazu Myochin (President) and Kiyotaka Aya (Senior Managing Executive Officer) from “K” LINE, and Sadakatsu Hiramatsu, President of Shimizu Philippines Contractors, Inc. and the handover was successfully completed.
“K” LINE Group will continue its efforts to reduce its negative environmental impact, both at sea and shore.
caption:Mr. Hiroshi Kimura, Owner's Chief Representative in Manila of Kawasaki Kisen Kaisha, Ltd.
Mr. Yukikazu Myochin, President of Kawasaki Kisen Kaisha, Ltd.
Mr. Kiyotaka Aya, Senior Managing Executive Officer of Kawasaki Kisen Kaisha, Ltd.
Mr. Sadakatsu Hiramatsu, President of Shimizu Philippines Contractors, Inc
The Swedish Club Marks 40 Years in Hong Kong
The Swedish Club’s Hong Kong office celebrates its 40th anniversary this month. The office has seen many changes, from fast economic growth in the South East Asia region and China’s ‘open door’ policy, to Asia taking a role as a leading force in global shipping.
Team Hong Kong Managing Director Ruizong Wang (pictured) says: “We are delighted to celebrate 40 years in this important hub. Statistics last year showed that for the first time in recent history, Asian-owned tonnage exceeded the tonnage of European shipowners.
“We have a very good, professional team who are dedicated to offering the best possible levels of service to our members. Our business continues to expand, and we have worked hard to earn a good reputation in the market.”
Team Hong Kong is the largest of The Swedish Club’s teams, with P&I tonnage from the Asia region representing about 50% of the Club’s total entered gross tonnage. The decision to open a new office in Singapore this year could not have been taken without the successful relationships built up from Hong Kong by Ruizong and his team.
Now, following the COVID -19 restrictions, Hong Kong is opening up once again and Team Hong Kong is already undertaking am extensive programme of visits to members in the region. “We are looking forward to meeting members face to face and taking the opportunity to concentrate on further developing our business, and continuously offering better services for our members,” adds Ruizong.
ISSUE 100 OUT NOW
Click here to view SMI issue 100
Marinfloc delivers combined systems for major methanol-fuelled containerships project in South Korea
Marinfloc of Sweden reports that it has begun delivery of its combined EGR (exhaust gas recirculation) bleed-off and Bilge water separators for a major South Korean newbuilding project. To date, three of a total 12 shipments for the 16,200 TEU methanol-powered vessels have been sent.
ABS, Lloyd’s Register, DNV and MAN Energy Solutions have all approved Marinfloc’s innovative solution, which also complies with IMO’s MEPC.107(49) and MEPC.307(73).
All 12 vessels will be using a MAN B&W 8G95ME-C10.5-LGIM-EGRTC for methanol fuel and will be equipped with a Marinfloc CD5.0 EGR system to treat both the EGR bleed-off water and the bilge water.
The flocculation technology utilized by the Marinfloc’s treatment unit is effective in terms of both treatment efficiency and cost, regardless of the type of fuel utilized. The delivery is the first for methanol-fuelled vessels but several units have been delivered to date with the first vessel in operation since early 2022.
Veson Nautical collaborates with Bearing to analyse and predict CII performance
Bearing, a leader in AI-powered sustainable shipping, and maritime software provider Veson Nautical (Veson) have announced a new strategic product partnership to synchronize data for voyage analysis and quick, accurate modelling of Carbon Intensity Indicator (CII) ratings.
The two companies will securely integrate the Veson IMOS Platform (VIP) with Bearing’s CII optimisation and performance analysis solutions. Mutual clients who subscribe to the integration will be able to securely share relevant voyage data from the Veson IMOS Platform with the Bearing platform, cutting out manual data entry and helping ensure data used to model a voyage is up to date.
By leveraging voyage and supporting reference data from VIP, Bearing’s CII Optimizer can instantly predict vessels’ CII ratings, identify potential problems, and offer solutions to improve performance. Natively integrating this data into the voyage optimisation process within VIP provides mutual clients with access to accurate CII predictions for a vessel within the context of the voyage and broader strategic operations.
The addition of Bearing to the Veson Partner Network is a step forward in aiding clients to track emissions data in accordance with regulatory requirements.
Eric Christofferson, Chief Product Officer at Veson Nautical, said: “Optimising a voyage involves several inputs and assumptions. Currently, planning and recording a voyage in a system like VIP provides a user with a number of modelled outcomes from a commercial perspective. When you bring a separate optimisation system into the mix, things can get time-consuming and error-prone.
“Additionally, upcoming regulations are putting a lot of pressure on the industry to maintain compliance and enhance efficiencies of global supply chains. This integration with Bearing is one of the exciting steps that we are taking to support our clients with the technology they need to navigate these changes.”
Bearing’s AI platform analyses vast quantities of information about the global shipping fleet, estimating fuel consumption, speed, and other aspects of vessel performance. Bearing’s CII Optimizer uses Bearing’s robust learning models, ECDIS-verified routing engine and historical weather database to forecast CII scores and recommend potential changes, such as vessel speed, fuel type, sailing schedule and underwater cleaning.
In blind tests with global shipping companies, Bearing’s data-centric AI-based approach delivered vastly more accurate predictions than physics-based models, which struggle to account for the multitude of variables that influence voyages at sea, including wind direction, biofouling, currents, and waves.
Dylan Keil, Co-Founder and CEO at Bearing, said: “With new CII regulations going into effect next year, ship owners and operators need to understand how their fleet will perform — where they’re at risk and what that means for their bottom line. Existing tools simply aren’t up to the task. But with Bearing’s AI-powered technology, now also fuelled by data from the industry-leading Veson IMOS platform, companies can get the intelligence they need to make decisions that are better for both their business and the environment.”
Prevention at Sea launches IMMERSEAV VR-based seafarer assessment and training solution
Cyprus-based Prevention at Sea Group has launched an innovative Virtual Reality (VR) based maritime training and assessment solution called IMMERSEAV. The move follows four years of extensive R&D activity, the company says, carried out in close collaboration with reputable shipping stakeholders.
The IMMERSEAV solution is described as utilising the ‘prevention’ approach of its group’s name, and blending maritime expertise and Virtual Reality technology with scientific knowledge gained from the disciplines of psychology and neuroscience
Petros Achtypis, CEO of Prevention at Sea, explains that the majority of accidents are still caused by human error and unsafe behavior, despite the best efforts of the ISM (International Safety Management) Code and STCW (Standards of Training, Certification and Watchkeeping) to eradicate such behaviour, suggesting that “more needs to be done”.
“The conclusions from scientific research on mental health are communicated to the maritime industry by the recently released INTERTANKO/OCIMF Behavioural Assessment guides,” he says, “clearly stating that new assessment and training tools are needed to enable shipping companies staff their ships with skillful, well-trained beyond typical STCW courses, and psychologically resilient personnel.”
Prevention at Sea believes that cognitive mechanisms, such as Selective Attention and Working Memory, are largely overlooked during the hiring process. For example, hiring personnel usually involves in-person or remote interviews via video calls, and typically relies on administering basic tests to evaluate skills and technical knowledge, Sea staff also receive theoretical training before embarkation or while on board by means such as video-based e-courses but do not receive “full immersion and interacton with the working environment” in actual and realistic conditions, leading to “clear limitations in assessing safety or cognitive behavior under stressful conditions.”
IMMERSEAV therefore seeks to address these shortcomings, explains Petros Achtypis. “But it is not just another VR training system,” he says. “It is built using a wireless VR Headset operating both online and offline and consists of a library of various Maritime VR scenarios.Seafarers are immersed individually or as a team on a virtual ship and they are invited to carry out tasks for training purposes or tasks that assess their competency skills and cognitive performance.
“Furthermore, these tasks can be carried out either under normal or stressful conditions, allowing IMMERSEAV to determine resilience to external stressors. Results are securely kept under the candidate’s account on the cloud, in line with GDPR rules.’ A trainer can join in the VR task remotely, as can a team of team of seafarer.s
Petros Achtypis concludes: “We are confident that we have built a solution, aligned to TMSA (Tanker Management Self-Assessment) and DryBMS requirements, that fits all needs and is in the correct direction of minimising accidents in our industry.”
Cargo hazard detection firm wins major technology prize
Exis Technologies, based in Darlington, County Durham has won the Logistics Technology Provider of the Year category at the Logistics UK Awards.
The firm supplies systems for the management of dangerous goods in sea transport, working with companies around the world. The award win was based largely on the success of its cargo screening tool, Hazcheck Detect, which is used by four major container lines including Maersk, ONE and Hapag Lloyd.
Hazcheck Detect is used to detect misdeclared and undeclared dangerous goods and other identifiable cargoes of interest. Booking data is screened against thousands of complex rules in real time, giving results from Hazcheck Detect within seconds using cloud-based technologies. Clients receiving results from Hazcheck Detect can challenge their customers on suspicious bookings quickly and take action.
Chief information officer Mike Durkin said: “It feels great to be recognised for the work put in to provide fast, cost-effective and accessible cargo screening solutions for the shipping industry.
“Hazcheck Detect can be accepted by multiple competing carriers while offering the same technical solution, similar rules for cargo screening and similar outcomes regardless of the carrier. This is critically important to prevent misdeclared and undeclared cargo being cancelled and re-booked on alternate carriers.
“We were shortlisted against some really impressive companies, so simply to be nominated was an honour, never mind winning.”
In the past ten years Exis has grown from 15 to 26 members of staff and this year is celebrating its 35th anniversary of creating global solutions for compliance, efficiency and safety in the shipment of dangerous goods by sea.
Tatham & Co expand into Greek market
Maritime and commercial law firm Tatham & Co. has announced its expansion into the Greek market with the addition of a senior Athens-based lawyer to its growing team.
Ioanna Vitta (pictured) brings with her over 30 years of experience, specialising in dry shipping. A qualified Greek and English lawyer, Ioanna is also a highly regarded and well-known figure in Piraeus and Athens.
The move comes following the addition of Chris Farmer, a solicitor Master Mariner, who joined the team earlier in the year to increase the firm’s Admiralty capability. Bringing in an experienced lawyer based in Greece is the next step for Tatham & Co. in consolidating its business in this area and in supporting its Mediterranean clients and the wider shipping industry.
Tatham & Co. Senior Partner Simon Tatham said: “The recruitment of Ioanna Vitta marks an important moment in the firm’s development, and we are both delighted and excited.
“Being retained regularly by blue-chip Greek shipowners, having a highly experienced and respected solicitor on-hand in Greece is a perfect fit for us. Ioanna is a senior member of the Athens legal community, she has a strong following herself and is known, respected and instructed by owners and the Piraeus based Clubs alike.
“Most importantly for the firm’s clients, Ioanna will have the back-up of a strong and growing team in London covering dry, wet, marine insurance and special situations. The Admiralty and Crisis Response team has been strengthened on the wet side by the arrival of Chris Farmer [from Inces] and with a further senior ex-Master Mariner solicitor joining us in the New Year, we will be working closely with Ioanna to ensure that our Greek clients are given the best possible service.”
Led by founding partners Stephen Askins, Simon Tatham, and James Hickland, Tatham & Co. continues to grow and win recognition in the industry and this new hire further strengthens its reputation and reach.
Recent accolades include being honoured by the Law Society as the ‘best in its category’ in 2021, as well as the recent success in the Court of Appeal in the widely reported Tilawa case involving treasure salvage and issues of sovereign immunity.
Braemar strategically acquires leading US shipbroker
Braemar Plc (LSE: BMS), a leading international shipbroker and provider of expert investment, chartering, and risk management advice to the shipping and energy markets, is pleased to announce the strategic acquisition of Southport Maritime Inc. (“Southport”) in the USA.
Enhancing the Group’s coverage in the Americas has been an important strategic goal of Braemar since the board launched its growth agenda in November 2021. Southport is one of the highest volume US-based shipbroking tanker companies. They are recognised as a leader for crude and refined products in the North American export market, as well as in the Latin American and Caribbean markets.
With a particular focus on spot tanker fixtures, Southport’s 18-strong team has a reputation for high performance within the industry. Since it was founded, Southport has enabled its clients to transport billions of barrels of liquid petroleum and oil products worldwide, helping them to benefit from both short-term volatility and long-term industry trends.
The Southport team complements Braemar’s existing Tanker desks in London, Singapore, Madrid, Houston, and Geneva, as well as significantly enhancing Braemar’s presence in the Americas.
Braemar’s new offices in West Palm Beach and Winter Park Florida, will continue to be led by Michael Corey and Peter Tornaben from Southport. The new offices augment the Group’s existing regional coverage in Houston and Sao Paulo, and these combined locations provide the ideal platform for the Group to penetrate the North and South American markets and add further scale to the Group’s activities.
Tris Simmonds, Braemar COO, said: “The acquisition of Southport represents the next key component of our global growth plan. Michael Corey and Peter Tornaben are extremely well-recognised figures in the North American shipping markets, and they and the team at Southport have an exceptional reputation. We have conducted a long process to find the right partner and have a well-established relationship with Southport. In their professionalism, dedication, and integrity we see a team that shares similar values to our own.
“There are significant growth opportunities in the North and South American markets and the team at Southport will play a key part in helping the Group deliver on that potential.”
Michael Corey and Peter Tornaben, co-founders of Southport Maritime, said: “When we started this company thirty years ago, our primary objective was to provide our customers with timely dissemination of market intelligence and assist them in monetizing that information.
"For us, this is the logical step in continuing Southport’s core mission. Being under the Braemar umbrella will enable our team to bring our boutique service to the next level across a significantly larger global platform. It will also allow us to provide a wider array of products and services, and enable us to create additional value for our clients as we move forward in this competitive brokering landscape while remaining as Southport Maritime.”
Ends
University of Plymouth installs simulator suitable for floating offshore wind R&D
A state-of-the-art facility which could play a critical role in the global offshore renewable energy sector and clean maritime installations has been installed at the University of Plymouth, UK.
The Maritime Simulation Laboratory brings together a network of high-tech components that can be used to run a series of maritime scenarios in real time. At its heart is a Kongsberg K-Sim Dynamic Positioning simulator which will initially be used to simulate, test and optimise marine operations throughout the lifecycle of floating offshore wind (FLOW) installations.
It is also envisaged the simulator will have applications across the marine and maritime sector, in fields including craft design, marine autonomy, clean maritime, and maritime infrastructure.
The new facility can accurately model any maritime geographical area in the world, including terrain data, tides and currents and a wide range of environmental conditions, such as wind, sea state, precipitation and ice.
It will allow trained technicians to create new craft that appear realistic and exhibit accurate hydrodynamic and aerodynamic functionality. It can also be programmed so that maritime objects – including buoys, cables, anchors and docks – can interact with the simulated environment and with each other.
High levels of visibility and integration mean it can evidence numerical models, enabling staff to see the strains and loads being placed on simulated objects by different weather and sea states.
The new simulator will also link to the research and development taking place in the COAST Laboratory, providing academics and industry with a virtual environment in which to test their innovations before they are deployed in its wave tanks.
Dr Adan Lopez-Santander, Lecturer in Navigation and Maritime Science and Maritime Simulation Laboratory lead, said: “This simulator, and the software we have designed for it, is exceptional. It gives us the capacity to replicate in real time what is happening anywhere on the ocean and in any given conditions.
“It also enables us to monitor the stresses being placed on individual structures, and how they will affect that structure’s interaction with other devices. In sectors such as offshore renewables and marine autonomy, being able to perform these tests in a virtual environment will be critical to existing and future research and development.”
The new Maritime Simulation Laboratory complements other cutting-edge facilities already being used for research, teaching and engagement at the University.
These include a Ship Simulator, which is able to recreate the environment of a maritime vessel navigating the ocean, and the Cyber-SHIP Lab, the UK’s only hardware-based maritime cyber security research and development platform.
Professor Kevin Jones, Executive Dean of Science and Engineering at the University of Plymouth, said: “This simulator is a genuine game changer across a number of critically and globally important sectors. We now have unrivalled capabilities to assess how individual devices and collective infrastructure will respond to unique ocean conditions. But beyond that, and in tandem with our existing facilities, we have the power to both predict and overcome a number of key challenges facing these sectors. It means that, now more than ever, we can play a crucial role in advancing marine and maritime innovation.”
The Dynamic Positioning simulator has been acquired through the University’s involvement in the Cornwall FLOW Accelerator project. Led by Celtic Sea Power and supported by a grant of £4.8m from the European Regional Development Fund (ERDF), through the Cornwall and Isles of Scilly Growth Programme, the project will support Cornwall’s ambitions to take a leading role in the global floating offshore wind sector.
Maersk announces new and innovative cold storage facility in Norway
A.P. Moller - Maersk (Maersk) continues to integrate global end-to-end cold chains with the announcement of a new innovative cold storage facility planned for Flatholmen quay in Aalesund, Norway. The new facility is specifically designed to accommodate the needs of the vast Norwegian seafood industry. It will be among the largest cold storages of its kind in the country and is expected to become fully operational by Q1 2024.
The construction of the new facility in Aalesund, which also will be the company’s first low GHG emissions cold storage in Norway, will be according to BREEAM Excellent standards with zero direct emissions from operations in full accordance with Maersk´s overall goal to decarbonise its entire operations by 2040.
When operational, the facility is expected to help significantly reduce customers´ climate footprint in their entire supply chain.
“We are pleased to announce our first green cold storage facility in Norway,” said Birna Odefors, Maersk Area Managing Director, Nordics. “Many of our customers, especially in the seafood industry, are looking for long-term partners that have such capabilities to reduce their entire climate footprint.
“The cold store in Aalesund is another step forward in our commitment to set a course for zero carbon logistics while at the same time enabling true integrated logistics for our customers.”
Maersk’s emissions targets entail that at least 90% of its global cold chain and contract logistics operations will be certified as green by 2030 (scope 1 and 2).
Upon completion, the new and innovative facility will have around 12,000 sqm of fully convertible temperature-controlled space. In total, the facility will provide storage for over 33,000 pallets of cold store products while offering true integrated cold chain logistics offerings as storage, distribution, and inland transportation services for its customers.
“With this initiative, we are taking another step forward in enabling true end-to-end cold chain offerings in Norway,” said Birna Odefors, Maersk Area MD, Nordics.
“The new facility in Aalesund will allow all cargo to be directly stored and consolidated at our cold store at the terminal instead of being consolidated from smaller cold stores in the region. With its quay side location, it will also provide easy infrastructure access from palletised cargo from the North and limit today’s traffic between cold stores and terminal. All this will improve our customers cashflow and lead to lower operational costs for everyone involved,”
Though decades, Maersk has been active in the region of Aalesund, the largest receiver of wild catch in Norway and also the most important hub for fish from North of Norway.
The new facility will serve as a seamless supply chain link for customers when transporting frozen and refrigerated products such linking Aalesund´s strategic location with easy access to national road networks and proximity with shipping ports reaching major container hubs in Europe with relative ease, and from there to the rest of the world.
The agreement with Maersk to build a state-of-the-art and low GHG emissions cold storage facility is another milestone for the development of Port of Aalesund and is an important step in the long-term partnership.
“We are excited and proud to be able to facilitate a major development for the Aalesund region,” said Ole Christian Fiskaa
Port Director, Port of Aalesund. “The long-term relation for Maersk in Aalesund is consolidated through this agreement and we are confident that it will bring even more business to our area.”
Norway is the world's leading producer of Atlantic salmon and one of the largest seafood exporters in the world. The Norwegian aquaculture industry has developed to become an industry of major importance in the country. The value of the Norway fish exports today accounts USD 11,9B and is targeted to five-fold by 2050 (2010 baseline).
One Sea adds innovator Avikus of South Korea into autonomous ship technology alliance
One Sea welcomes South Korea’s Avikus as its latest member, consolidating its position as the shipping’s global alliance on maritime autonomous surface ships (MASS).
Founded in January 2021 by Hyundai Heavy Industries Group, the world’s largest shipbuilder, Avikus specialises in developing autonomous navigation solutions for a range of vessel types. Earlier this year, the company’s HINAS 2.0 (Hyundai intelligent Navigation System) solution supported the world’s first transatlantic voyage of a large vessel using autonomous navigation technologies, when the SK Shipping ultra-large liquefied natural gas carrier Prism Courage completed a month-long voyage.
In addition to HiNAS for large merchant ships, Avikus offers NeuBoat for smaller vessels. Each of these solutions is available in separate versions to support either navigation or berthing/docking. NeuBoat Navigation and Docking are also available with a higher degree of automation, to offer the potential to take over aspects of vessel operation, control and decision-making.
“Autonomous vessels have the potential to improve the safety and efficiency while reducing the workload on seafarers, but we can only reap the rewards with the right regulatory framework in place,” said Carl Johansson (pictured), Vice President – Business Development, Avikus. “We are excited to join the alliance and look forward to working with our fellow members towards the common objective of establishing an autonomous maritime ecosystem.”
One Sea Secretary General Sinikka Hartonen said: “Welcoming Avikus on board is an exciting development which brings in participation from one of our industry’s most important hubs for innovation. It further highlights One Sea’s continuing expansion in representing the key stakeholders in autonomous ship technology - from Northern Europe, Japan, the US and now South Korea.
“Our increasingly broad-based membership further supports the advocacy work we are doing on behalf of the industry to support the development of robust regulations for MASS.”
Since its formation in 2016, One Sea has developed an advisory and advocacy expert role in autonomous shipping and the safety, efficiency and environmental gains it promises. Members include maritime technology leaders such as ABB, Cargotec, Haltian, Kongsberg, Monohakobi Technology Institute (MTI), Sea Machines Robotics, Tietoevry and Wärtsilä.
I-Tech and LANXESS unlock novel antifouling biocide combinations through R&D partnership
I-Tech AB, the developers of the antifouling biotechnology, Selektope® and global specialty chemical company, LANXESS have successfully combined their respective antifouling technologies for the first time with promising results.
Static tests of antifouling coating formulations containing Selektope and the SEA NINE™ family of biocides were conducted in multiple marine environments worldwide with differing biofouling risk. Positive results obtained have provided proof of concept.
Additionally, a data pool of coating formulations has been developed that can be used by antifouling coating manufacturers to support the trialling of new combinations of existing, available biocides without the need to conduct initial R&D exploration activities.
Antifouling coatings are the first line of defence against biofouling accumulation on ship hulls and niche areas. Continuously protecting the underwater surface of a vessel that can have changeable operating patterns and transits in and out of varying biofouling risk zones for up to five years is very tricky.
Coating systems that make use of biocides are the most common type utilised today. However, the number of approved biocides available to paint manufacturers has significantly decreased during the past decade. Therefore, finding new ways to combine existing biocides is essential.
Collaborative R&D efforts between biocide suppliers play a key role in supporting the optimisation of future antifouling coating technologies by providing proof of concept and initial R&D findings. This can enable coating manufacturers to fast-track product development and improve antifouling performance.
I-Tech’s technology, Selektope® and LANXESS’ technologies, SEA-NINE™ 211N and SEA-NINE™ ULTRA belong to a rare set of active agents that are approved by regulatory bodies in leading nations for ship repair and ship building markets. This joint R&D work undertaken by I-Tech and LANXESS represents the first time that these solutions have been used as co-biocides in marine antifouling coating formulations.
Selektope® is an organic, non-metal biocide that prevents hard fouling. It repels barnacle larvae from a coated surface with non-lethal effect using a novel, biotechnological approach achieved by the active agent medetomidine. Through natural receptor stimulation, the swimming legs of barnacle larva kick at a higher frequency so that they cannot attach to the coated surface.
The LANXESS SEA-NINE™ family is based on the active substance DCOIT which has a broad anti-microbial activity spectrum with a special emphasis on soft fouling prevention. SEA-NINE™ 211N contains 30% DCOIT. It was launched in 1986 and is used in many premium coating products. LANXESS will commercially launch a new marine antifouling agent under the SEA-NINE™ product family in 2023. SEA-NINE™ ULTRA contains 80% DCOIT in a rigid core-shell encapsulation format to ensure controlled delivery of the biocidal active agent DCOIT during the antifouling service life.
For the past twelve months, I-Tech and LANXESS have worked together to develop active ingredient compositions that comprise varying concentrations of Selektope®, SEA-NINE™ 211N and SEA-NINE™ ULTRA with other commonly used ingredients for marine antifoulant applications. Thirty-five paint formulations with a twelve-month lifespan were developed and put into static testing environments in the Caribbean, Eastern North Sea, North Mediterranean and in the Japanese Sea.
After six months all test paint formulations had performed as good, or better than, the commercial paint references. Formulations with SEA-NINE™ ULTRA (2%) and Selektope® (0.1%) content showed excellent performance at reduced total biocide concentrations.
Dr Markus Hoffmann, Technical Director at I-Tech comments: “This year the I-Tech R&D team is harvesting the results from many successful collaborative projects undertaken with fellow antifouling technology developers. We believe this is the only way forward when trying to ensure that our technology helps the maritime industry to tackle increasing biofouling issues.
“Biocidal antifouling coatings are here to stay and at I-Tech we are invested in ensuring that the technology available now can be used to best effect in the future by proving performance across as many different potential application scenarios as possible.”
World will overcome challenges to keep trading, MSC CEO tells Conference of Paris
At a time when the contraction of global economic growth, high energy prices and inflation are dominating the public agenda, a high-level meeting of CEOs and government officials in Paris in mid-December offered a few glimpses of optimism and underscored the continued importance of global trade.
Commenting on the macroeconomic factors impacting global markets, MSC CEO Soren Toft explained how MSC – as the world’s largest container shipping line – has the size and scale to navigate this environment and keep on investing for the future to ensure that populations keep benefiting from international commerce.
“The future economy will still be globalised, even if some supply chains are a little more distributed,” Soren told the Conference of Paris in a panel session on ‘Charting a New Economy’. “Trade has brought hundreds of millions out of poverty, enabled local producers to tap international markets and empowered local communities through economic prosperity.”
Following the bust and boom volatility of the pandemic markets, when consumers ploughed money into physical goods, the commercial shipping market has been normalizing in the second half of this year, compared with the extraordinary freight rates witnessed during the pandemic. Nonetheless, container demand has shown a slight resurgence in recent weeks and countries will continue to trade, potentially still producing some modest growth in 2023, Soren said.
The cargo market is also experiencing variation across different regions, with pessimistic forecasts in Europe being outstripped by a more positive view in North America, following five consecutive months of slowing inflation in the US.
The conference panel agreed that production costs are high on the agenda of CEOs as energy costs and inflation impact all industries. Companies are unlikely to make immediate fundamental changes to producing goods in Asia, even if there have been some cases of “re-shoring” and “near-shoring” in the supply chain, Soren said. Although Asia remains the world’s manufacturing hub, within a couple of decades, Africa will in the future play a greater role in production for the world, he added.
Soren also outlined MSC’s approach to sustainability and how MSC is contributing to efforts to decarbonize the industry, step by step. First, by improving efficiency and moving on to lower carbon transition fuels such as biofuels and LNG (liquefied natural gas). Then, as soon as possible, by tapping net zero alternative fuels when they become available at scale.
He appealed for more global policy making and regulation that would help incentivize energy companies to produce alternative green fuels and encourage banks to lend capital to fund the transition to a new, decarbonised global economy:
Remarking on the lessons learned from the pandemic, Soren noted that the global supply chain disruption has revealed to many people for the first time the important job that men and women do to keep the world moving and that seafarers and logistics workers should be commended for the important jobs they do.
IMO progress on revised GHG strategy, Mediterranean ECA adopted
The International Maritime Organization reports that its Marine Environment Protection Committee (MEPC) has made progress towards revising the Initial IMO GHG Strategy, working towards adopting a strengthened revised Strategy in mid-2023 at MEPC 80.
"I note and welcome the progress made on these matters. It cannot be stressed enough how crucial it is that we keep the momentum and deliver an ambitious and fair, revised IMO GHG Strategy at MEPC 80 next year," said IMO Secretary-General Kitack Lim, at the close of the MEPC 79 session, which met 12-16 December at IMO Headquarters in London.
"We cannot take our foot off the accelerator, at this moment in time, the cooperation and dialogue that is the trademark of IMO, and not least this Committee, will be more important than ever in delivering on what is expected of us to address climate change, but also biodiversity loss and marine pollution," said Mr Lim.
The work on revising the IMO GHG Strategy took place in an intersessional group, (ISWG-GHG 13), which met 5-9 December 2022, and in the Working Group on Reduction of GHG Emissions from Ships, which met during the MEPC 79 session.
The Committee reaffirmed its commitment to: adopt a revised IMO GHG Strategy, in all its elements including with a strengthened level of ambition by MEPC 80; continue its work on identifying the candidate GHG reduction measures to be developed in priority as part of a basket of measures consisting of both technical and economic elements by MEPC 80 in accordance with the Work plan; and undertake a comprehensive impact assessment of the basket of candidate measures ahead of their adoption in accordance with the Work plan and the revised Procedure for assessing impacts on States.
MEPC 80 (3-7 July 2023) is expected to adopt the revised IMO Strategy for Reduction of GHG Emissions from Ships.
The MEPC also adopted revised resolutions on voluntary cooperation with ports and on national action plans to reduce GHG emissions from shipping. The amendments (to resolution MEPC.323(74) and resolution MEPC.327(75)) include references to facilitating voluntary cooperation through the whole value chain to create favourable conditions to reduce GHG emissions from ships, including by through cooperation with ports, routes and maritime hubs.
The revised resolutions are:
• Invitation to Member States to encourage voluntary cooperation between the port and the shipping sectors to contribute to reducing GHG emissions from ships.
• Encouragement of Member States to develop and submit voluntary National Action Plans (NAPs) to address GHG emissions from ships.
In addition, the MEPC session adopted amendments to designate the Mediterranean Sea in its entirety as an Emission Control Area for Sulphur Oxides and Particular Matter, under MARPOL Annex VI. In such an Emission Control Area, the limit for sulphur in fuel oil used on board ships is 0.10% mass by mass (m/m), while outside these areas the limit is 0.50% m/m.
The amendment is expected to enter into force on 1 May 2024, with the new limit taking effect from 1 May 2025, ensuring cleaner air for populations in the Mediterranean Sea area.
This is the fifth designated Emission Control Area for Sulphur Oxides and Particular Matter worldwide, the others being: the Baltic Sea area; the North Sea area; the North American area (covering designated coastal areas off the United States and Canada); and the United States Caribbean Sea area (around Puerto Rico and the United States Virgin Islands).
Newport Shipping becomes Board Member of Sea-LNG
Newport Shipping is proud to announce that it is now a Board Member of Sea-LNG. As part of its strategy of being involved in the developments of LNG as a fuel for the maritime industry, the company now will be more involved with the promotion of LNG as a fuel.
Lianghui Xia, Managing Director, Newport Shipping comments that: “It is part of our long- term strategy for promoting LNG as a practical and sustainable fuel choice for decarbonisation. Sea-LNG is one of the best platforms where we can reach out to the global audience and join forces with all the other industrial players with the same ambition and focus.”
Sea-LNG is working with the industry to help promote LNG as a fuel. Its vision is to achieve a global LNG marine fuel value chain capable of meeting the shipping industry’s environmental, commercial and operational challenges in the 21st Century. It works with its members to identify the requirements and dependencies of these challenges and highlight and support practical solutions in respect of the benefits of LNG as a marine fuel and the role it can play in transforming the shipping industry.
By joining with Sea-LNG Newport Shipping will be bringing its experience and latest LNG retrofit designs-giving the market a solution that it can adopt to start cutting emissions. Newport Shipping has three retrofit solutions for bulk carriers, tankers and containerships.
Newport Shipping was established in the UK in 2011 with vessel management, design, construction and repair experience dating back to the 1960s. The Company is active globally with the services of drydocking, retrofit, repair and conversions with a low carbon focus in 15 yards with 38 docks capable of handling approximately 2,500 repairs annually of all vessel classes and sizes.
Bumpy roads ahead but shipping able to manage, says DNV’s Ørbeck-Nilssen
The shipping industry is facing three ‘major tectonic shifts’ in the coming years – but is well equipped to manage the bumpy road ahead, DNV’s Maritime CEO, Knut Ørbeck-Nilssen told media at a pre-Christmas event in London.
After reflecting on “a couple of remarkable years” including the super-cycle of container newbuilding activity, he said: “If you look a little bit beyond that, it is really three major tectonic shifts, not only in shipping but also affecting shipping.”
The first of these, he said, was unpredictable markets and geopolitical shocks. “Coming out of the pandemic, we thought it would be a better year, and suddenly we had the Russian invasion of Ukraine and the very brutal behaviour of the authorities in Iran.”
The second shift is how decarbonisation is setting the agenda and defining the ESG revolution, said Ørbeck-Nilssen. “It is totally affecting everything – not only in terms of regulatory requirements but also how companies are acting together.”
Going forward, this isn’t just an issue of being compliant with rules and regulations, he noted, “but also about knowing what you emit and being able two explain and validate and document how you are making progress.”
Thirdly, he highlighted technology. “We talk a lot about new fuels but there are so many things about digitalisation and energy efficiency.”
Cyber security is also moving up the agenda and will be a topic for years to come, he said.
“What is ahead of us?” he concluded. “There will be bumpy roads in 2023 but I am sure we will be able to manage, as we have managed bumpy roads in the past,” he said, adding: “And I am not talking about greenwashing but what it is actually capable of delivering.”
THE Alliance announces service network upgrade plan for 2023
THE Alliance’s network has been reconfigured to ensure the most comprehensive port coverage to best meet the needs of the member lines’ customers. The enhanced service setup will enter into effect from April 2023.
One of the key highlights will be the deployment of larger newbuild ships to the Asia and North Europe trade. A modern series of fuel-efficient 23,500+ TEU vessels will replace smaller vessels. This is part of THE Alliance’s ongoing commitment to offer more sustainable services by minimising the carbon footprint of its service network.
Another major upgrade will be the additional deployment of 14,000/15,000 TEU vessels on the Asia and Mediterranean trade as well as on the US East Coast trade.
THE Alliance members include Hapag-Lloyd, ONE, Hyundai Merchant Marine and Yang Ming.
Joint ILO-IMO meeting adopts guidelines on seafarer abandonment
Guidelines on how to deal with seafarer abandonment have been adopted by the first meeting of a joint International Labour Organization (ILO)–International Maritime Organization (IMO) Tripartite Working Group.
The Guidelines seek to address the significant rise in cases of abandonment of crews reported to the ILO, which have risen from less than 20 cases per year between 2011 to 2016, to 40 in 2019, 85 in 2020, 95 in 2021 and 114 cases as of mid-December 2022.
The Guidelines aim to improve coordination among countries, including flag States, port States, States in which seafarers are national or resident, and States in which recruitment and placement services operate, in order to resolve abandonment cases more quickly, including getting seafarers paid and repatriated home to their families.
The new Guidelines draw on relevant ILO international labour standards, notably the Maritime Labour Convention, 2006, as amended (MLC, 2006), including its most recent amendments; an earlier joint ILO-IMO resolution adopted in 2001 (Resolution A.930(22)); relevant IMO international frameworks and agreements; and relevant trends and developments in regional and national law and practice.
Under the MLC, 2006, flag States – countries where ships are registered and/or whose flag the ships are flying – must ensure a financial security system is in place for ships under those flags. The new Guidelines encourage flag States to verify, at least annually, the validity of this financial security. Port States are encouraged to pay particular attention to this financial security during their inspections of foreign ships that visit their ports. States where recruitment and placement services operate are also called upon to regularly verify that those services include a system to ensure the protection of the seafarers they recruit and place.
The new Guidelines set out procedures to be taken by States if a shipowner fails to fulfil their obligations to arrange and cover the cost of repatriation of seafarers, outstanding wages and other contracted entitlements, and the provision of essential needs, including medical care. In these circumstances seafarers are then considered abandoned.
The procedures include developing, in cooperation with seafarers’ and shipowners’ organizations, national Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) to explicitly define the liabilities and obligations of the competent authority and the roles to be played by the various national stakeholders. These stakeholders include the relevant national seafarers’ welfare boards, shipping agencies, seafarers’ and shipowners’ organizations, seafarer welfare organizations, seafarer recruitment and placement services, and others.
The ILO–IMO meeting also discussed the importance of the joint ILO-IMO database relating to abandoned seafarers, and the need to update and improve it.
The Tripartite Working Group’s first meeting brought together more than 250 representatives and observers from Governments and Shipowners’ and Seafarers’ representative organizations, to identify and address seafarer issues. The meeting was held in hybrid format in Geneva from 13–15 December 2022. The outcomes of the meeting will be reported to the ILO Governing Body and IMO Legal Committee in 2023.
PIL makes first CA reefer delivery of fresh avocadoes to Singapore
Pacific International Lines (PIL) has made its first delivery of fresh avocadoes to Singapore from Australia, using its latest 40” high cube Controlled Atmosphere (CA) refrigerated (reefer) containers. The batch of avocadoes produced in Fremantle, Western Australia, is a key premium fruits growing region.
CA reefer containers are specialised containers which employ advanced technology to regulate carbon dioxide, oxygen and nitrogen levels within the container, thereby providing an optimum environment for transporting a wide variety of fresh produce over long transit times.
PIL recently acquired newbuild CA reefer containers to support the increasingly sophisticated needs of its customers across its network in China, Asia, Africa, Middle East, Latin America and Oceania.
Mr Lim Chee Wei, General Manager, Logistics Division, PIL, said, “We are very pleased that the avocadoes arrived in Singapore fresh and in optimum condition in our CA reefer containers. This is our first such shipment into Singapore, and we see this as a significant step for PIL as a Singapore home grown container shipping line.
With rising populations and complex supply chain issues, we have seen more importance placed on diversification of sources of food supplies across the world. As a container shipping line, we are committed to supporting customers in finding solutions to their cross-border transportation of goods. With this new range of CA reefer containers, PIL now has expanded its capability to transport fresh fruits and produce over varying distances among countries in our network. This is part of our continual effort to meet the needs of our customers for quality services and to expand our presence in the reefer market.”
The batch of avocadoes was imported into Singapore by an established fruits and vegetable supplier for the enjoyment of consumers in Singapore.
Swedish Club Managing Director Lars Rhodin bows out
Lars Rhodin, Managing Director of The Swedish Club, has completed a programme of visits to shipping clusters around the world as he bid farewell to members and business partners prior to his retirement as head of The Swedish Club.
He visited local offices in London and Piraeus and met Swedish shipowners in Gothenburg and Donsö before attending staff events at the Club’s head office in Gothenburg.
Lars first joined The Swedish Club in 1986 and has spent 15 years at the helm. During that time, he spearheaded a period of considerable growth for the Club, successfully steering it through challenges and overseeing the opening of three new offices in Oslo, London and, the latest, in Singapore.
Speaking at the board meeting held in London on 8 December, Lennart Simonsson, Chairman of the Club, extended his warmest wishes to Lars and thanked him for his commitment and leadership.
In response Lars thanked his team, Club members and the shipping community for making his time at The Swedish Club very special. “Since I joined the Club in 1986, I have been part of a family,” he said. “The shipping industry is unique and It’s an exciting business, but also very much a people business - so, when you ask me what I am going to miss, of course it will be the people.”
Thomas Nordberg, who will be taking the reins from Lars on January 1st said: “I am thrilled at having the opportunity to step into Lars’ shoes and will do my outmost to contribute further to what has been successfully built during his strong leadership.”
Lars Rhodin said: “We are a part of an exciting industry where knowledge and experience are vital. Thomas Nordberg has the right background to fit the role. I am convinced the Club will continue to prosper under his leadership.”
Caption: Past and present: (left to right) Thomas Nordberg and Lars Rhodin.
MSC Group completes acquisition of Bolloré Africa Logistics
MSC Group is pleased to confirm that its wholly owned subsidiary SAS Shipping Agencies Services has completed the acquisition of Bolloré Africa Logistics. The transaction was approved by all applicable regulatory authorities.
MSC’s acquisition of Bolloré Africa Logistics SAS and its affiliates (“Bolloré Africa Logistics Group”) highlights the long-term commitment of MSC to invest in African supply chains and infrastructure, supporting the needs of clients of both businesses.
MSC reiterates that it will operate Bolloré Africa Logistics Group as an autonomous entity with its portfolio of diversified partners, under a new brand to be unveiled in 2023. Philippe Labonne will continue his longstanding role at the helm of the business as President of Bolloré Africa Logistics.
MSC intends to continue enhancing the continent’s connectivity with the rest of the world and enable trade within Africa amid the implementation of the continental free trade (AfCFTA). Backed by MSC Group’s financial strength and operational expertise, Bolloré Africa Logistics will be able to meet all its commitments to governments, particularly regarding port concessions.
MSC Group President Diego Aponte said: “We are delighted to welcome more than 21,000 new colleagues to the MSC family through our acquisition of Bolloré Africa Logistics. I wish to thank the Bolloré family, and Cyrille in particular, for having conducted the transaction in a smooth and efficient way and I congratulate them for having created such a well-established business.
The deal will strengthen MSC’s longstanding ties with Africa and will reinforce our commitment to the continent’s economic growth, including investment in the ships, shipyards, container terminals, logistic solutions, storage facilities, road and rail networks that will support and enhance trade across the African continent and with the rest of the world. Our strategy remains rooted in our values and in our long-term vision that protects over 150,000 employees in 155 countries worldwide.”
Castor Marine to integrate Starlink with Acta Marine’s existing comms infrastructure
Following the announcement of Castor Marine being an authorized Starlink reseller, the company has signed a contract to outfit Acta Marine’s Walk-to-Work (W2W) vessels with Starlink connectivity. This includes the two Methanol MDO/HVO powered DP2 Construction Service Operating Vessels (CSOVs) that Acta Marine ordered earlier this year.
Castor Marine already manages Acta Marine’s entire fleet connectivity. Starlink will be integrated with the existing onboard communications infrastructure.
Low Earth Orbit (LEO) satellite communications at sea is becoming increasingly important, because of its ability to provide high-speed Internet at very low latency. With this project Castor Marine’s strategy to offer Starlink to its portfolio is already paying off.
The W2W vessels will each receive four Starlink antennas and the full Fortinet suite for secure SD-WAN and SD-LAN network connectivity. This means that onboard operational and Crew Internet traffic is secure and fast, i.e., a download speed of more than 500 Mbps.
Castor Marine already serves Acta Marine’s fleet of offshore and DP2 workboats with VSAT and Iridium Certus services and recently installed the new Internet security infrastructure as well. This is important, as good communications between all parties involved in an installation or maintenance project is the basis of successful and safe offshore operations. This goes especially for Acta Marine’s fleet and crew who’s combined capabilities mean that work can be performed around the clock in harsh offshore conditions.
Continued cooperation
According to Vince van den Belt, Manager IT at Acta Marine, the contract is a result of the way both companies work together: “We have found a reliable partner in Castor Marine thanks to their extensive technological expertise and driven team. Therefore, it was logical to have them integrate Starlink on our offshore wind fleet.”
Marlow consolidates Offshore activities with new brand, team and website
Marlow Navigation has strengthened its international Offshore division, with the launch earlier this month of a dedicated website, reinforcing the Marlow Offshore brand and team.
The latest initiative gathers all offshore related ship management activities from within the Group, establishing a competent service provider catering to the individual needs of the industry.
“Essentially, we have consolidated our various offshore departments and services under one umbrella, pulling our resources and expertise across the Marlow network to deliver turnkey solutions for the offshore industry,” stated Joint Managing Director at Marlow Navigation.
Thus far, Marlow’s offices in Germany and the Netherlands have been providing standalone services to the offshore sector. Moving forward, these now all fall under Marlow Offshore, with support from the group’s headquarters in Limassol, its well-established worldwide network of offices, recruitment agencies, and training centres.
Collectively, this creates a comprehensive and truly global service provider, says the company, “with combined strengths that bring over 60 years’ experience and know-how to the table.”
As part of these efforts, a new website was recently launched, adding to the Group’s other dedicated channels.
“Further to building the Marlow Offshore brand, it is essential to establish unified services specific to the industry,” commented Managing Director, Marlow Offshore, Jörn Laber. “Our new website along with our established social media presence provide partners, prospective clients, as well as maritime, engineering and offshore specialists go-to platforms, with more direct and relevant information for their needs.”
Marlow Offshore offers services in crew and technical vessel management, project management as well as training. Fully managed vessels support clients in Oil & Gas, and Renewables’ activities. Additionally, over 500 offshore personnel are on board globally at any given time, servicing multinational clients who operate a range of vessel types, such as Anchor Handling Tugs, Platform Supply, Semi-Submersibles and Pipe-Laying Vessels among many others.
Visit the new website at marlow-offshore.com to learn more.
CMA CGM strengthens its finance organisation to support future growth
The CMA CGM Group is pleased to announce the appointment of Ramon Fernandez as Executive Vice President Chief Finance Officer as of the start of the second quarter of 2023. He will replace Michel Sirat, who will become Head of the Family Office and will remain in charge of the Group M&A and strategy.
CMA CGM Chairman and CEO Rodolphe Saadé has decided to strengthen and adapt the Group’s organisational structure, says the company, in order to support its growth in an environment marked by an increasing number of financial, strategic and development challenges.
In his new position Ramon Fernandez (pictured) will be in charge of the financial steering of the Group and its subsidiaries, in particular cost control, financing, and investor relations. He will be a member of the Executive Committee of the CMA CGM Group and its subsidiary CEVA Logistics.
Ramon Fernandez began his career at the French Treasury Department before joining the IMF in Washington. Back in France, he held various positions at the Ministry of the Economy, the Presidency of the Republic and then the Ministry of Labour and was then Director General of the Treasury from 2009 to 2014. He joined Orange in 2014 as Executive Vice President Finance and Strategy, and currently holds the position of Executive Vice President Finance, Performance and Development.
Michel Sirat, a member of the CMA CGM Group’s Executive Committee, began his career at the French Treasury Department before joining the IMF in Washington. Back in France, he worked at the French Treasury Department before, as of 2000, holding a variety of management roles in the energy industry in France, the United States and Belgium. He joined the CMA CGM Group as Chief Financial Officer in 2011. He is currently EVP - Finance & Strategy and Group CFO.
Ramon Fernandez and Michel Sirat will take up their new positions at the start of the second quarter of 2023.
Signal Ocean looks at end-year outlook for crude tankers amid geopolitical crisis
In the preface to its Crude Tanker Annual Review - 2022, Signal Ocean notes that 2022 saw a record boom in crude and product tanker freight rates. Geopolitical tensions between Russia and Ukraine reshaped the macroeconomic scene and we entered a new era of changed seaborne oil trade flows. December 5, 2022, was the day the new era began with the enforcement of the EU ban on Russian oil trade.
In parallel, the G7 price cap for crude oil and petroleum originating in or exported from Russia of $60 per barrel went into effect. The current decision provides for a transitional period of 45 days for vessels carrying crude oil originating in Russia that was purchased and loaded onto the vessel before December 5, 2022, and discharged at the final port of destination before January 19, 2023. In addition, there is a transition period of 90 days after any change in the price cap to ensure consistent implementation by all operators.
The year ends with critical macroeconomic challenges for the future of VLCCs and crude oil freight rates, observes Signal Ocean. There is uncertainty about how oil supply will evolve given current oil demand growth and the impact on trade flows as Europe continued to rely on Russian crude oil imports through the end of the third quarter.
There are many discussions about the existing trade and scenarios about a possible dark trade involving Russia-linked tankers. At the same time, most European shipowners already prefer to avoid any cargo related to Russian oil, while Asia continues to buy large quantities of Russian oil. Before the new year begins, we take a moment to consider the impact of recent decisions by analyzing the crude oil tanker industry today.
A year ago, pandemic concerns were at the top of the agenda due to the negative impact on freight rates, demand and supply of vessels, while now, says Signal Ocean, we are facing critical geopolitical challenges in the oil sector that are leading to an increasing change in demand for tonne-miles and days for crude oil transportation.
It looks like the fourth quarter of the year will end with a downward trend in VLCC rates, while Suezmax and Aframax Baltic Sea - Med rates are exceptionally strong. Signal Ocean expects Russian oil exports from Black Sea and Baltic ports to Asia to replace oil exports from the United States, which will further dampen future VLCC demand.
However, VLCC demand in terms of tonne-days and miles is still significantly higher than in the previous two years, it points out, fuelling positive expectations for VLCC freight revenues in the days ahead.
Interestingly, the upswing in freight rates observed last quarter continues to be reflected in the upward trend in vessel speeds, it adds. Current speed figures have surpassed the levels of the previous two years and are now at their highest level since the beginning of the year.
MHSS’ new Managing Director says seafarers need extra support during holiday season
MHSS Mental Health Support Solutions, which was set up to provide support services exclusively to the maritime sector, offers psychological consultations for seafarers needing support for themselves or their crew all year round but the company finds that the holiday season is always a challenging time for the mariners it is working with.
“It is the time of year when people are more likely to feel undervalued if companies don’t put additional effort into supporting their crew,” explains Jannik Grothues (pictured) who was recently appointed Managing Director of MHSS. “Other key workers such as nurses, the police or doctors may find themselves working during the festivities but they will generally be able to organise a family celebration close to the actual holiday but for many seafarers the best they can hope for is a short call to their families while they continue working many hundreds of miles away.”
While it may not be possible for mariners to get back home to spend time with their families, it is vital that companies do everything in their power to give them a sense of belonging. “Taking steps such as ensuring that traditional holiday food is available to the crew, giving them the opportunity to socialise with each other, organising joint activities that they would be doing with their families – all of these can help alleviate the feelings of isolation that can come from being away from loved ones,” he concludes.
BIMCO continues to seek feedback on new CII clause and explain regulatory complexities
The BIMCO CII clause has been developed to help address the commercial complexities of the CII (Carbon Intensity Indicator) regulation entering into force on 1 January 2023. The regulation was adopted at the IMO despite attempts by the industry to point out the potential pitfalls of the CII formula.
Since the publication of the CII clause on 16 November, BIMCO has held talks and met with members and stakeholders to seek feedback.
“We have received constructive comments, both positive and negative, from many of our members,” says David Loosley, BIMCO’s Secretary General & CEO. “This insight is invaluable for already published clauses and the development of future clauses. We will continue to seek solutions to help our members operate commercially in a complex regulatory environment.”
Following recent dialogue with members, BIMCO understands that many stakeholders are still struggling to interpret the complexities of the CII regulation. BIMCO is offering comprehensive training along with free webinars to explain how the clause works in practice and how to understand the CII regulation.
BIMCO says it will continue to monitor developments as the CII regulation enters into force
SRI applauds new measures to address abandonment
SRI, the international pan-industry body researching maritime and seafarers’ law, has applauded the decision by the first meeting of a joint International Labour Organization (ILO) – International Maritime Organization (IMO) Tripartite Working Group to adopt new measures which improve conditions for seafarers who have been abandoned.
Deirdre Fitzpatrick, Executive Director of SRI says: “We welcome these new Guidelines in the hope that they will reverse the increasing tide of cases of abandonment of seafarers. The lack of a framework to adequately protect abandoned seafarers has been frustrating – but we are delighted to see that positive change is happening.
“The abandonment of seafarers is a stain on our industry, and it has been shocking to see the rise in cases over past years. We have first seen the pandemic take its toll and this has been followed by global uncertainty. Yet, at every turn, it seems to be the seafarer who has borne the brunt of the situation,” she adds.
Obtaining redress in case of violation of seafarers’ rights is often challenging as a result of the multiple jurisdictions and laws and regulations involved.
Brian Orrell OBE, Chair of the SRI Advisory Board who led the seafarers’ group in the negotiations that resulted in the Maritime Labour Convention 2006, adds: “Congratulations to the social partners and in particular to the seafarers’ group for the leadership that they have taken to achieve these Guidelines. Global issues require global solutions, and it is heartening to finally see a concerted effort from Flag States, Port States and States where recruitment and placement services operate to work with seafarers’ and shipowners’ organisations.”
Korean Register reappoints current Chairman and CEO, Lee Hyungchul
The current Chairman and CEO of Korean Register (KR), LEE Hyungchul extends his tenure for three more years, as he was elected as the company’s twenty-fifth Chairman and CEO at the extraordinary meeting of KR’s general assembly on December 22, 2022.
Over his thirty years with KR, Lee has held many senior roles, leading key departments of KR including statutory service team, London branch office, overseas business development team and Seoul branch office. He had also served in the position of Executive Vice President of KR’s Business Division, before he was appointed to the Chairman and CEO for the first time back in December 2019.
On being elected, Lee said:
“I feel a heavy responsibility to once again serve as chairman of KR in this difficult time. The maritime industry is facing many challenging tasks, such as decarbonization and digital transformation. However, I will use the crisis as an opportunity, and dedicate myself to further enhance the status of KR and the Korean maritime industry.”
Lee's new term begins on December 23 and runs for the next three years.
SWS awarded by RINA first AiP of LNG/hydrogen fuelled VLCC
RINA has announced the Approval in Principle (AiP) of the first very large crude carrier (VLCC) vessel using an innovative propulsion arrangement that reduces the ship’s resistance by 5-10%. This result is achieved by splitting the thrust of a single large propeller into two smaller ones, thus reducing the required ballast draft for the full propeller immersion, which in turn allows the reduction of the volume of the ballast tanks and, ultimately, of the overall ship dimensions and the required power for propulsion without impacting the cargo carrying capacity.
At the same time the vessel will meet the IMO targets for 2050 through the use of the ship’s fuel (LNG) combined with hydrogen produced onboard. The LNG/hydrogen-fuelled vessel general arrangement developed by Shanghai Waigaoqiao Shipbuilding (SWS) is based on the result of a joint project with Marin, the Liberia Administration, Wärtsilä, ABB and Helbio (a subsidiary of Metacon AB) and RINA.
Giosuè Vezzuto, Executive Vice President at RINA, said: “Following the AiP of an MR tanker, earlier this year, using the same solution to produce hydrogen on board, this vessel features a new approach to the design of VLCCs. It also demonstrates that the gas reforming concept can work equally well on smaller or bigger vessels, as this first AiP for a VLCC proves its application in the largest vessels.”
The new propulsion concept is important because it offers ship owners a way to exceed IMO 2050 carbon reduction targets using practical fuel and technology that is readily available today.
Mr. Gao Aihua, Deputy Director of SWS R&D Department at SWS, said: “We are proud to obtain the first AiP for a VLCC to meet IMO 2050. Also, the reduction of ship’s resistance is a paramount step for ships of this size, towards the primary target of reducing the energy consumption on board, and this makes it even easier to reduce GHG emissions. This is a huge step forward in decarbonisation for the global industry and for shipbuilding in China. This is a huge step forward in decarbonisation for the global industry and for shipbuilding in China.”
The propulsion design is based on combining LNG with steam in a Helbio gas reformer to split LNG molecules into hydrogen and CO2. Hydrogen is then directly used to fuel the internal combustion engines and fuel cells. The capture of carbon atom directly from the LNG molecules, serves as a pre-combustion technique, and the cryogenic separation of CO2 from a stream of reformed gases rather than from exhaust emissions results in much smaller installation on bard which eliminates the use of chemicals and the penalty in energy consumption.
The AiP to SWS, following the MR AiP design in Europe, shows the wider acceptance of the concept by global shipyards.
“One of the challenges for shipowners in meeting IMO carbon emission targets is knowing what the future holds,” continued Vezzuto. “The industry is considering many options using different technologies and new fuels, aiming to minimize the energy consumption and the resulting CO2 emissions on board. Shipowners need to be confident that onshore bunkering facilities and other supporting infrastructure will be available before investing in new vessels.
“This LNG/hydrogen fuelled design for VLCCs is modular and scalable and provides a practical solution that can adapt over time to meet increasingly stringent emission reduction targets and ensure their investment is optimised throughout the natural lifespan of the vessel. The design only requires LNG bunkering, which is widely available today.”
MacGregor wins new orders for RoRo equipment for Pure Car and Truck Carriers
MacGregor, part of Cargotec, has received two significant orders and one major order for comprehensive packages of RoRo equipment for a total of 15 Pure Car and Truck Carriers (PCTC) vessels to be built at three shipyards in China and South Korea for three different ship owners.
The orders, with a total value of nearly EUR 90 million, were booked into Cargotec’s 2022 fourth quarter orders received. The vessels are scheduled to be delivered to the ship owners between the third quarter of 2024 and the third quarter of 2026.
MacGregor’s scope of supply encompasses design, supply and installation support of RoRo and car deck equipment to all of the ordered vessels. This includes quarter ramps, side ramps, deck levels of liftable car deck panels, several internal ramps, pilot and bunker doors. Additionally, the order includes MacGregor deck machinery to some of the vessels.
“The year 2022 has been exceptionally successful for us in the PCTC market, and we are very happy and proud of our customers’ trust in us,” says Magnus Sjöberg, Senior Vice President, Merchant Solutions, MacGregor. “We want to be a reliable and strong partner for them, and help them excel in their business.
“Our successes have been built on our state-of-the-art designs and strong support to the customer starting from the early phases of the projects, and our capability to support them through the whole lifecycle of the vessels worldwide. I would also like to thank our team, the true professionals who are contributing to these projects.”
IRS completes prototype testing of ‘made in India’ containers
Indian Register of Shipping (IRS) has completed prototype testing of ocean shipping containers manufactured domestically, by Container Corporation of India Ltd (CONCOR). This aligns with India’s plan to transform the maritime sector over the next 10 years and help ensure a consistent supply of containers while reducing the cost of trade.
IRS had launched its service to provide certification of marine containers in 2021 on being authorised by Director General of Shipping, Government of India to undertake inspection and certification of containers as per the IMO International Convention for Safe Containers (CSC).
IRS is closely working with the Indian companies at various stages of the container manufacturing process, including prototype development through design appraisal, hand-holding and stage inspections and testing as per ISO standards specified in the IMO CSC convention.
IRS Managing Director Vijay Arora (pictured) said: "IRS is now recognised around the world as a leading force in classification services. The containers produced from these approved works are certified and meet the rigorous technical standards of the IMO CSC Convention. IRS is fully committed to supporting and growing the domestic production of containers and offers a customer-centric approach."
More seafarers seek support for mental health over Christmas period, says OneCare Solutions
Calls for support services from seafarers who are away at sea increase over the Christmas period as crews struggle more with loneliness and isolation, says leading health and wellbeing platform One Care Solutions.
The platform offers 360 degrees of support to crews and their families and addresses the full spectrum of seafarer health and well-being with 24/7 direct access to medical expertise, as well as mental health support.
OneCare Solutions says it sees a higher volume of calls to its psychological teams through its partner Mental Health Support Solutions (MHSS) during the Christmas period with a rise of around 5%.
Marinos Kokkinis, Managing Director at OneCare Solutions, said: “We tend to see a higher number of calls from seafarers during the Christmas period. They very much feel the strain of being away from their loved ones even more during Christmas time, and it is up to shipping companies to ensure they have services in place that can offer the level of support that is needed.
“We offer a 24/7 hotline which seafarers can call day or night to access trained psychological experts who may be able to offer advice on getting through the Christmas period and coping mechanisms, or even just to have someone there to listen.”
OneCare Solutions has been able to offer help and support to more than 1,000 crew members this year through the MHSS helpline, psychoeducation, crisis management, training and projects. The most common factor that led to seafarers seeking help through the helpline was stress, closely followed by family matters.
One example Mr Kokkinis highlighted was a seafarer who appeared to be high-functioning onboard, but sought support from MHSS due to difficulties with sleeping, losing focus, panic attacks, anxiety and periods of feeling low for no reason.
He also reported regular arguments with his girlfriend and was worried for their relationship, but deeply missed her and their children. MHSS helped stabalise his symptoms and improve his ability to communicate with his partner with the help of external relationship counselling and psychoeducation.
Shipping companies can ensure they are looking out for the well-being of their seafarers during the Christmas period through a number of initiatives, explained Mr Kokkinis.
They can enhance their entertainment packages, offer more access to WIFI to enable better communication with their loved ones, boost morale among crews with a special Christmas or New Year dinner and encourage crew members to bond through activities onboard.
Should dry bulk owners get ready for a cyclical downturn?
The dry bulk market could be set for a downbeat 2023 with the pain potentially extended into 2024, according to the latest quarterly dry bulk market report* from Maritime Strategies International.
Behind the falling earnings picture is the faster than expected unwinding of port delays that kept the market buzzing during 2020-21, with port operations perhaps not far from approaching ‘normality’. While ballast and laden durations on specific trade flows may increase, MSI believes that any positive year on year impact on market balances in 2023 will be more than offset by reduced port delays.
MSI forecasts an improvement in fleet efficiency next year, recognising that the process is unlikely to be linear and both COVID-19 (and the policy responses to it) and geopolitical and trade influences will continue to be factors with the potential to affect fleet utilisation in significant ways.
“To put it one way, where Capesize markets have led towards the end of this year, others will soon follow,” said Plamen Natzkoff, dry bulk analyst with MSI. “We expect a cyclical downturn in the market over the next two-three years, characterised by pronounced weakness in bulk carrier earnings driven by the continuing erosion of support factors and tepid trade growth.”
On balance, a negative view for market balances and earnings chimes with increasingly bearish sentiment for the global economy; indeed, a more drastic downturn in economic output remains a realistic prospect, explored through MSI’s Low Case outlook. But, for dry bulk at least, China still has potential to surprise on the upside.
In recent reports, MSI has pointed to the potential for a near-term steel-intensive stimulus by the Chinese government, albeit predicated on a fall in energy costs and commodity prices, and a loosening in COVID restrictions.
Recent weeks/months have seen China taking a rising share of cheaper energy from Russia, whilst weaker demand around the world and easing supply chains have undermined commodity prices. Finally, a recent loosening of COVID restrictions hints at a rising possibility that a steel-intensive stimulus may be on the cards.
“Whilst MSI finds itself unquestionably at the more bearish end of recent dry bulk market commentary from brokers, owners and other analysts, our forecast for dry bulk spot markets in 2023 is not far different from current FFA contracts,” adds Dr Natzkoff. “Our analysis suggests that, without the benefit of a relatively small orderbook, market balances won’t begin to tighten again until 2025 with the potential for more meaningful growth in earnings from 2026.”
Maersk strengthens Saudi operations with new Cold Storage facility at King Abdulaziz Port in Dammam
A. P. Moller - Maersk (Maersk), has signed an agreement with Refad Real Estate to operate a brand new Cold Storage facility at King Abdulaziz Port in Dammam, Saudi Arabia. Maersk will open the doors to the facility in March 2023 for its customers.
The agreement was signed in the presence of H.E. the Minister of Transport and Logistics, Chairman of the Board of Directors of the Authority, Engineer Saleh bin Nasser Al-Jasser, H.E. the President of the Saudi Ports Authority, Mr Omar bin Tala Hariri, Mohammad Shihab, Managing Director, Maersk Saudi Arabia and the Chairman of the Board of Al Qahtani Holding, Sheikh Abdulaziz Abdelhadi Al-Qahtani.
The agreement was signed by Group Director of Real Estate, Mr Abdelhadi Abdulaziz Al Qahtani of Refad Real Estate and the Director of Products and Services, Maersk Saudi Arabia, Mohamed Sedeek Hashish.
“Saudi Arabia is a significant market for us. With more than a fifth of the country’s food imports coming through King Abdulaziz Port in Dammam, we wanted to establish a state-of-the-art cold storage facility that will help us serve the food industry better,” said Mr Mohammad Shihab during the signing ceremony.
He added: “Our ambition is to connect and simplify our customers’ supply chains. To achieve this, we must be close to our customers, collaborate with trusted and reliable partners and build a network that truly enables global trade. With our new facility in Dammam, we are setting ourselves up to achieve all three goals.”
Dammam enjoys a strategic location in more than one way. Several food processing manufacturers in the different industrial zones and residential communities are based around King Abdulaziz Port in Dammam. This means that there is manufacturing as well as consumption of food items in and around Dammam. Moreover, Dammam lies in close proximity to neighbouring Gulf countries like the UAE, Kuwait, Bahrain and Qatar, making it a significantly important distribution hub for several markets. On the other side, King Abdulaziz Port is also strongly connected to the hinterland through a robust road and rail network, making it the location of choice for many.
Maersk’s Cold Storage facility at King Abdulaziz Port in Dammam will primarily serve the requirement to store frozen commodities such as poultry, meat, vegetables, confectionary and processed food. The facility will also house chilled cargo such as dairy products and seasonal fruits.
To ensure top-notch quality of service, the facility will be equipped with world-class standards when it comes to temperature and humidity control. This will help ensure minimum to no food wastage during its storage at the facility. The customers will also get complete visibility on these parameters, thus creating transparent and trusted operations.
MPA’s Mr Tan Hanqiang appointed Vice-Chair of IMO Marine Environment Protection Committee
Maritime and Port Authority of Singapore (MPA) reports that its officer Mr Tan Hanqiang, currently First Secretary (Maritime), High Commission of the Republic of Singapore to the UK, was last month appointed by the IMO as Vice-Chair the Marine Environment Protection Committee (MEPC), succeeding Mr Harry Conway (Liberia).
This marks the first time in over 20 years that a Singaporean has assumed the Vice-Chair appointment for the IMO MEPC. Previously, MPA Officer Mr Zafrul Alam served as Vice-Chair for IMO MEPC from 1999 to 2000. In addition, MPA’s Assistant Chief Executive (Operations), Capt. M Segar, served as the Vice-Chair of IMO’s Maritime Safety Committee from 2012 to 2015.
MPA says the appointment is a strong recognition of Singapore’s commitment to a multilateral, rules-based approach for international shipping and supports Singapore’s long-standing efforts as a bridge-builder to bring together parties for constructive dialogue and consensus-building at various international fora, including climate change efforts. Singapore will also support the IMO by sharing its expertise and co-developing global standards with Member States to drive the decarbonisation of the maritime sector, MPA adds.
Mr Tan has been Singapore’s Liaison Officer to the IMO since 2019, during which he has represented Singapore at IMO-related meetings with distinction. He has worked extensively with the IMO Secretariat on various IMO-Singapore projects such as NextGEN and Future of Shipping Conferences. Prior to his stint in the UK, he helmed positions in policy work pertaining to international relations, port development and port regulations at the MPA.
Mr Tan said: “I am honoured and humbled to take on the role of Vice-Chair of the Marine Environment Protection Committee and look forward to supporting the Chair and working with fellow Member States to advance the interests of the international maritime community to safeguard the marine environment and bring the maritime industry closer to the United Nations sustainable development goals and maritime decarbonisation efforts through partnership, and mutually-beneficial initiatives in an inclusive and progressive manner.”.
Singapore has been a member of the IMO Council since 1993. As an IMO Council member, Singapore has played an active role in the organisation to advance the interests of the international maritime community, including to drive digitalisation and decarbonisation efforts, enhance navigational safety, promote efficient and sustainable shipping, and protect the marine environment.
MacGregor wins order to supply RoRo equipment for two PCTC for “K” Line
MacGregor, part of Cargotec, has secured a large order to supply RoRo equipment for two 6,900 CEU Pure Car and Truck Carriers (PCTC) to be built at Shin Kurushima Toyohashi Shipbuilding Co. for “K” Line (Kawasaki Kisen Kaisha) in Japan.
The order was booked into Cargotec’s 2022 third quarter order intake. The first vessel is scheduled to be delivered to the owner in the first quarter of 2025 and the second in the second quarter of 2025.
MacGregor’s scope of supply consists of design, supply and installation assistance for a stern ramp, a side ramp, three sets of movable ramps, a ramp cover and a mobile deck lifter to each vessel.
“MacGregor has a long-lasting and good relationship with Shin Kurushima that we are very proud of. Our close cooperation will help smoothly advance the design work and eventually the on-time delivery of the equipment,” says Magnus Sjöberg, Senior Vice President, Merchant Solutions, MacGregor.
White Paper: Empowering People working at Sea from Training to Justice
Following two years of research, peer outreach and associated drafting, Human Rights at Sea's Advisory Board member Toon van de Sande has completed an initial White Paper covering his thoughts on how to better develop a culture (and continuum) of care alongside increased seafarer empowerment throughout the maritime environment.
The focus of the White paper, entitled ‘Empowering People working at Sea from Training to Justice’, combines professional personal experience with an assessed need for even greater support to seafarers' welfare training standards, welfare provision, human and labour rights protections and access to justice when abuses occur at sea.
Key questions being raised by Toon and mirrored by Human Rights at Sea (HRAS), are:
• What should be done when human rights at sea are breached?
• How can these abuses be prevented?
• What are the root causes and how to solve the issues?
• How to effectively cooperate with interested multiple stakeholder groups and shipping industry entities?
• How can victims be effectively assisted and supported so that justice is done and is seen to be done?
• How can victims and their dependents be rehabilitated and how can they be effectively remediated?
Toon has been supported in his endeavour by Capt. Michael Lloyd, Stefan Francke (SPWO), Capt. Kuba Szymanski (InterManager), Johan Smith (Sailors’ Society), Olivia Swift (Lloyds’ Register Foundation), Mirella Stroink, PhD, Dean, (Faculty of Health and Behavioural Sciences Lakehead University Thunder Bay), Paul MacGillivary (Human Rights at Sea Australia), Neil Greenberg (March on Stress), Stephen Window (The Nautical Institute) and our CEO, David Hammond.
As Toon states in respect of the aim of his paper: "I hope to bring together the reasons for the need for an established ‘Continuum of Care’ combined with human rights protections."
Human Rights at Sea is delighted to support these significant personal efforts to further stimulate such an important discussion and catalyse action by welfare stakeholders to address a new culture and continuum of care at sea.
Swedish Club Rings in the New Year with a Welcome for New Managing Director Thomas Nordberg
The Swedish Club welcomed in the New Year today, when it formally greeted its incoming Managing Director, Thomas Nordberg, on the first day in his new role.
Thomas has spent the last four months behind the scenes with the Club, and is now more than ready to hit the ground running:
“I am delighted to have been given the opportunity to take the helm at this unique organisation,” he said, as he addressed Club employees. “The drive for quality that I have seen from both our team and our members is outstanding, and I look forward to working with you all to support that commitment.
“We are operating in uncertain times, but The Swedish Club has seen many changes in its 150-year history. We will benefit from this strong platform when moving forward together and facing the challenges and opportunities that the next few years will bring,” he said.
Thomas Nordberg joins the Club with a solid pedigree in the marine insurance industry, having spent, as he says, a 30-year educational journey just to prepare for the role.
“I feel in many ways that heading up The Swedish Club has been tailormade, because the kind of roles that I have held in the past have been preparing me for this moment. I now hope to be able to transfer some of the experiences and insights that I gained during my career to help move the Club forward,” he added.
Baltic Exchange issues schedule of training courses for 2023
The Baltic Academy, training arm of the Baltic Exchange, has released its 2023 programme of courses for online training, with live courses delivered in London, Houston and Singapore. Subjects covered include:
• Freight Derivatives & Shipping Risk Management
• Advanced Freight Modelling & Trading
• Shipping Finance
• Shipping Economics & Investment
The Academy enjoys an international reputation and is renowned for delivering courses that equip shipping, derivative & commodity trading executives as well as finance professionals and investors with a deeper knowledge of the maritime markets.
All Baltic Academy’s courses incorporate theoretical and practical elements to empower maritime professionals at every level of their career. By enrolling in the courses, executives will develop the skills needed to trade freight derivatives, hedge bunkers and raise finance, says the Baltic.
The 2023 course curriculum covers a wide range of topics from ship finance to FFA trading, shipping market fundamentals to project viability.
The courses are taught by leading academics, all of whom are published authors and experts in their fields. The Academy’s global reach allows individuals from anywhere in the world to undertake their training either in person or online.
With the hybrid approach, anyone interested can sign up for the seminars either through the online campus or attend a selection of in-person seminars throughout the year. All participants are provided with six months access to the Academy’s online campus. Participants can learn at their own pace and work around both their personal and professional lives.
Each course has easily accessible videos together with comprehensive course notes and worked examples. All courses have between 13 to 15 hours of informative videos, international maritime industry case studies and trading exercises to help all participants manage and chart their own progress.
Courses are endorsed by the Baltic Exchange and a certificate will be issued to all participants on successful completion of the individual courses.
Members of the Baltic Exchange, either corporate or individual, are entitled to a discount on the courses.
To book a course or find out more, email: academy@balticexchange.com
Port of Los Angeles awards $6 million to fund 22 zero-emission trucks
The Port of Los Angeles has awarded a total of $6 million to two trucking companies and their truck manufacturer partners to speed up the transition to zero-emission (ZE) drayage trucks serving the nation’s busiest container port. The grants will defray the cost of putting 22 pre-production emissions-free models in Port service during 2023.
“Developing and deploying zero-emission trucks are critical to the health of residents who live and work around the ports,” said 15th District Los Angeles City Councilmember Tim McOsker. “These grants are one step in a comprehensive strategy toward a clean supply chain. I look forward to partnering with the Port as we combat climate change.”
“This is just one of the incentives we are offering to accelerate zero-emission technology and drive stakeholder investment,” said Port of Los Angeles Executive Director Gene Seroka. “We have a long way to go but with our private and public partners, we can reduce greenhouse gases and meet our 2035 goal of transitioning the entire fleet serving our port complex to zero-emission trucks.”
Two L.A.-area licensed motor carriers, Gardena-based MLI Leasing and El Segundo-based Performance Team, will receive $3 million each – the maximum funding per trucking company available under the Port’s Zero Emission Truck Pilot Program. Each carrier has partnered with a leading original equipment manufacturer to qualify for the incentive. MLI is working with Peterbilt and investing more than $3.4 million to produce and deploy 12 ZE trucks. Performance Team is working with Volvo and investing more than $5.6 million to produce and deploy 10 ZE trucks.
All 22 will be battery-electric models that will be on the road within the coming year. Each vehicle must make at least 50 drayage trips annually to Port of Los Angeles terminals.
The awards, approved by the Los Angeles Harbor Commission last week, represent the first distribution of Clean Truck Fund (CTF) dollars by the Port of Los Angeles since April 1 when the San Pedro Bay ports began collecting $10 for every loaded 20-foot equivalent unit (TEU) moving through the Port by truck. The Port expects to raise $45 million within the first 12 months and each subsequent year based on the current rate.
All CTF revenues will be used to offer incentives that accelerate the deployment of ZE trucks serving the San Pedro Bay ports. For the first three years, the Port has prioritized spending the money on truck vouchers, support for small fleets and independent owner-operators, matching funds to support electric and clean energy fueling infrastructure, advanced truck technologies, and innovative ZE concept trucks. Progress will be reported annually.
The CTF rate is paid by cargo owners or their agents. ZE trucks are permanently exempt. Trucks with low emissions of nitrogen oxides (low-NOx), in accordance with state standards, are temporarily exempt until Dec. 27, 2027, provided they are registered in the San Pedro Bay Ports’ Drayage Truck Registry by the end of 2022. More information on the Port’s current Clean Truck Program is available here.
The program builds on the Port of Los Angeles’ original Clean Truck Program, which has played a crucial role in reducing emissions of diesel particulate matter by 84%, sulfur oxides by 95% and NOx by 44% from port-related operations since 2005. While only 2007 or newer models are currently eligible to call at the Port, more than half are 2014 or newer models. Effective Jan. 1, 2023, all trucks calling at the San Pedro Bay ports must be 2010 or newer models.
Maersk completes acquisition of project logistics specialist Martin Bencher Group
A.P. Moller - Maersk (Maersk) announces the completion of its acquisition of Martin Bencher Group, a Danish Project Logistics expert with premium capabilities within non-containerised project logistics and global operations.
“I am thrilled to welcome Martin Bencher to Maersk,” says Karsten Kildahl, Regional Managing Director in Europe of Maersk. “With the addition of Martin Bencher, we are strengthening our ability to offer project logistics services to our global clients while providing a more comprehensive offering to a wide array of industries. As such, Martin Bencher really is an excellent fit to Maersk and our integrator strategy.”
Martin Bencher is a renowned specialist within project logistics services with a high degree of reliability, a proven track-record, and a strong focus on Health, Safety, Security and Environment (HSSE).
Martin Bencher was founded in 1997 and is an asset-light logistics provider that specialises in project logistics. Martin Bencher’s core capability is designing end-to-end project logistics solutions for global clients, and the company´s competitive strengths include deep industry expertise, a solid track record, long-term stakeholder relationships as well as a highly skilled organisation.
“We look forward to becoming an integral part of Maersk,” says Peter Thorsoe Jensen, CEO of Martin Bencher. “Our companies complement each other in so many ways, that we expect a seamless transition experience for both our colleagues and clients. Together, we can attain our full potential and will bring the scale, commitment, and capabilities to handle the entire logistics scope of work for clients around the world.”
Martin Bencher Group is headquartered in Aarhus, Denmark and has a presence in key locations globally through 31 offices in 23 countries, with almost 170 employees.
Bunker measuring system to become mandatory in Antwerp, Zeebrugge and Rotterdam
Antwerp-Bruges Port Authority and Port of Rotterdam Authority will make it mandatory to use a bunker measuring system (such as a Mass Flow Meter) on board bunker vessels to measure the exact amount of fuel delivered to sea-going vessels.
This follows an independent study in both Antwerp and Zeebrugge and Rotterdam, which showed regular quantity issues in the bunker market. With the measure, the port authorities aim to make the ARA bunker market more transparent, efficient and reliable.
During the first half of 2023, the port authorities will first identify suitable bunker measuring systems. They will also determine the date on which the obligation to bunker with a bunker measuring system on board bunkering vessels will enter into force in Antwerp and Zeebrugge as well as Rotterdam.
The port authorities are aware that this measure will have a major impact on the bunker market. Therefore, they choose an ambitious yet realistic deadline. The different companies in the bunker chain will be given sufficient time to adapt to this measure. The requirement will be included in the licence for bunker fuel suppliers. Currently, 40 out of 170 bunker vessels in Rotterdam, Antwerp and Zeebrugge are equipped with a bunker measuring system.
The introduction of a bunker measuring system is expected to greatly improve efficiency, with data from transactions able to be read digitally and immediately processed in the accounts.
Both the Port of Antwerp-Bruges and the Port of Rotterdam Authority were informed of regular problems regarding the supply of bunker fuels. To investigate the extent and nature of these complaints, the port authorities commissioned independent research and consultancy firm CE Delft to look into the experiences of the parties involved in the bunker market. This study was conducted through interviews and surveys.
The conclusion was twofold: there are similarities between the two ports and there are structural quantity problems in the bunker market. 80-90% of the survey respondents recognise the issues outlined.
Some 65% of stakeholders interviewed and over 90% of survey respondents see the introduction of the mandatory use of an official bunker measuring system on board bunker vessels as a solution to quantity problems. A bunker measuring system measures the amount of fuel delivered in real time rather than calculating it from tank level measurements on board the bunker vessel (the methodology currently used as standard).
The Harbour Master of Rotterdam and the Harbour Master of Antwerp-Bruges will be working closely together over the coming period to introduce a uniform requirement for a bunker measuring system. This will be done in consultation with Belgian and Dutch stakeholders.
North P&I marks 10 years in Tokyo with agenda for growth
Around 150 guests attended a North P&I Club evening reception at Tokyo’s Imperial Hotel to celebrate 10 years since the marine insurer established itself in Japan, in an event also anticipating the merger of North with the Standard Club in February 2023.
Welcomed by Yoshinori Hashimura, Director (Japan), North, Members, brokers and other shipping industry connections were also joined at the gathering by Paul Jennings, Chief Executive, North and Thya Kathiravel, Chief Underwriting Officer, North.
Mr. Takeshi Hisatomi (pictured) of longstanding North members Marubeni Corporation and MMSL Japan offered a formal toast on the occasion, expressing appreciation for the support and service rendered by North, and wishing the Club continued success and growth in Japan in the years ahead. Esteemed guests also included representatives from Kumiai Senpaku, IMECS / Itochu, Inui Global Logistics and Iino Kaiun.
The occasion provided an opportunity to reflect on North’s achievements in Japan to date and for Jennings and Kathiravel to offer a formal introduction of NorthStandard to a Japanese audience. Once combined, North P&I and Standard Club will establish one of the largest providers of mutual cover in the maritime industry. The formal merger to establish NorthStandard takes effect on the 2023 marine insurance renewal date of February 20th.
“The Tokyo event was a great success and a fantastic opportunity to meet with many of the people who have supported our team in Japan over the past decade,” said Paul Jennings. “We were also able to highlight the continuity of contacts, procedures and service levels factored in for our clients in Japan through the merger, and engage directly with them on the benefits NorthStandard will bring for long-term stability, investment, a wider service portfolio and innovation in P&I.”
CMA CGM supports French start-up Gama in its solar sail mission
After two years of research and design supported by French liner giant CMA CGM, the satellite containing Gama's solar sail was launched yesterday on a SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket.
The solar sail is a new means of space propulsion that uses photons emitted by the Sun to move. It could theoretically accelerate to speeds never before achieved by man-made objects. Similar to maritime navigation, it is the position of the sail in relation to the Sun's rays that will determine the trajectory of the craft. As with a classic sail, it is thus possible at the same time to move away from the Sun but also to approach it, by sailing ‘upwind’.
The Gama Alpha mission will allow Frencjh start-up company Gama to test the deployment of a solar sail in low earth orbit (LEO), a decisive phase for the democratization of this new means of space propulsion.
The CMA CGM Group already uses satellite information to improve its operations worldwide for navigation, real-time maritime conditions and telecommunications. With a rapidly growing space economy and a new impetus to develop space resources, reliable and affordable space logistics will be needed to help develop commercial opportunities, it points out.
Maersk to build first green and smart flagship logistics centre in Lin-gang, Shanghai
Maersk is to build its first green and smart logistics centre in China, capable of net-zero emission operations upon completion. The Danish company signed the Land Grant Contract with the administrative committee of Lin-gang new area of the Shanghai Free Trade Zone in late December 2022. With a total investment of 174 million US dollars, the project is expected to start operation in Q3,2024.
Covering an area of approximately 113,000 sqm, the Lin-gang flagship logistics centre is designed to have a warehousing storage of 150,000 sqm, comprising four ramped 3-storey high standard warehouses and one 24-metre-high warehouse with automated storage and retrieval system (AS/RS). It will provide customers with a wide range of integrated logistics services, including international export consolidation, regional and global order fulfilment and distribution, cross border e-commerce and other value-added logistics services.
Caroline Wu, Managing Director of Maersk Greater China, said: “Maersk is continuously enhancing its logistic capabilities to offer integrated end-to-end solutions to customers worldwide. Shanghai plays a critical role for Maersk global network. With Lin-gang’s proximity to Yangshan port and its favorable free trade policies, our flagship logistics centre will provide agile and sustainable solutions, connecting and simplifying our customers’ supply chains.
“We will continue to invest in China, contributing to Shanghai's position as a global leading shipping and logistics centre, and the resilience of global supply chains.”
Frontline’s change of domicile to Cyprus takes effect ahead of proposed Euronav tie-up
Frontline Ltd, the flagship tanker company of principal John Fredriksen, reports that it has completed the move of its domicile from Bermuda to Cyprus under the new corporate identity of Frontline plc, with the company’s assets, financial reporting structure and executive officers all remaining the same.
The move is a prelude to Frontline’s planned bid to take over fellow tanker giant Euronav of Belgium, creating a leading global independent oil tanker operator with a combined fleet of 146 large tankers, including a world-leading number of VLCC and Suezmax vessels; Frontline itself currently owns and operates 72 modern tankers: 23 VLCC, 29 Suezmax and 20 Aframax/LR2.
The merger plan was first unveiled the plan in April 2022, with the new entity to retain the Frontline name but be headed up by current Euronav CEO Hugo de Stoop. Progress has since been delayed by complexities surrounding Frontline’s redomiciliation to the EU, finally completed end-December, and a formal merger bid is now expected in Q1 2023. Euronav shareholder CMB, controlled by the Saverys family, has been fiercely opposing the move, however, arguing that it will not result in the claimed synergies in terms of costs savings and competitive advantage and proposing an alternative Euronav plan for diversification and a focus on decarbonisation.
In December it was reported that CMB had managed to increase its Euronav shareholding stake to the 25% necessary to block any full-blown merger but Frontline has said the two tanker companies will nevertheless proceed to run operations jointly under a ‘combination agreement’ they signed last summer.
In any event, Frontline’s move of domicile to the Republic of Cyprus represents a major boost in prestige for the Mediterranean island and its shipping capital Limassol, already home to the EU’s largest shipmanagement community and third largest flag (behind Malta and Greece). Norwegian-born Fredriksen, whose other business interests include offshore drilling, dry bulk and industrial fish farming, has long associations with the island and is a holder of Cypriot nationality.
China Shipowners’ Association joins International Chamber of Shipping
The International Chamber of Shipping (ICS) is pleased to welcome the China Shipowners’ Association (CSA) as a Full Member from 1 January 2023. The CSA will join the ICS Board, which oversees the policy positions ICS presents on behalf of shipowners’ worldwide with the shipping industry’s global regulators, including the UN International Maritime Organization and the International Labour Organization.
Given the importance of China as a major shipping nation, the membership of CSA confirms the legitimacy of ICS, through its unique structure comprising member national (and regional) shipowner associations to speak on behalf of the global industry.
Established in 1993, the China Shipowner’s Association (CSA) is a voluntary trade organisation whose members are owners, operators and managers of merchant ships registered in the People’s Republic of China. The CSA assists Chinese Government agencies to regulate and maintain fair competition, and reflect the views of its membership.
Emanuele Grimaldi, Chair of International Chamber of Shipping, said: “I am delighted to welcome the China Shipowners’ Association to full ICS membership. As a hub for global shipping China plays a major role in maritime transport, including an influential role on the international stage. This membership will strengthen our ability to work together, united as an industry, to tackle the most pressing issues facing shipping such as decarbonisation. It is only through partnership that we will all succeed.
“The whole of the ICS membership look forward to working with the CSA, and to enhance future co-operation with the Chinese shipping industry as we address the challenges ahead for our sector.”
Zhang Shouguo, (pictured) Executive Vice-President of China Shipowners’ Association, said: “China Shipowners’ Association’s participation in the ICS will provide Chinese shipowners with a stepping stone, who can contribute to globalization by constructing a safe supply chain and making the Chinese shipping industry heard. Chinese shipowners will grow together with other international maritime companies. CSA also hopes to make use of the ICS information
platform to provide more assistance to the Chinese shipping industry, and also the necessary support for the transition to low-carbon green shipping.
“The cooperation between the China Shipowners’ Association and the ICS will have an important impact on both parties. It is believed that the participation of the China Shipowners’ Association will enrich the ICS platform. We look forward to achieving win-win cooperation and mutual development in the future!”
KR unveils Port State Control mobile app ‘KR PSC ADVISER’
With the start of the new year, Korean Register (KR) has launched the 'KR PSC ADVISER' mobile app to help customers prepare for Port State Control (PSC) inspections. The new service is designed to reduce the risk of PSC detentions by providing the latest PSC information in real-time and allowing seafarers to easily keep abreast of PSC checklists with a single app.
Aiming to prevent maritime accidents and protect the marine environment, a PSC inspection is the regulatory procedure that ensures foreign ships and their equipment entering national ports comply with international conventions.
Currently, over 150 countries around the world are systematically implementing the procedure, so shipowners and operators entering foreign ports need to be well-prepared for inspection.
As part of its commitment to help its customers prepare for PSC inspections, KR regularly hosts PSC seminars and provides customers with PSC information on its website and official documents. With the launch of this new app, KR expects its PSC services to be more accessible to its customers.
The newly released KR PSC ADVISER maximizes user convenience by displaying the world map as the main screen, allowing users to check the major PSC deficiencies in each region, port by port. Users can search for each deficiency with a keyword by using its Word Search function.
By informing users of the three most frequent deficiencies at each port, the app helps users avoid being detained by the PSC.
Yoon Boogeun, Executive Vice President of KR Survey Division, said: “As a digital classification society, we have been focusing on advancing our services by establishing an Integrated Survey Center (ISC) and implementing electronic certificate issuance services. The newly launched app was developed to enhance customer convenience and accessibility, and we will continue to do our best to further enhance KR's services.”
KR PSC ADVISER mobile app is available for both iOS and Android devices and can be downloaded from Google Play and the App Store.
Tim Slingsby of Lloyd’s Register Foundation becomes new Maritime Charities Group Chair
The Maritime Charities Group (MCG) has announced that Tim Slingsby, Director of Skills and Education at Lloyd’s Register Foundation (LRF) will be its new Chair following the retirement of Commander Graham Hockley LVO RN.
Speaking about his appointment, Tim Slingsby (pictured) said: “I am truly delighted to be taking on this new role and am grateful to my fellow MCG members for all their support. As an alliance of ten major seafaring charities supporting seafarers in all sectors, from the armed forces, the merchant navy and the fishing fleet, MCG has a critically important role to play.”
He continued: “Over the past four years, under Graham’s skilful and steady leadership we really have become the collaborative force for good that we want to be – and now is the time to build on that. With the knowledge, expertise and enthusiasm of every single member, I want to enable MCG to become much more than the sum of its parts, providing a voice for all seafarers. And with the weight of the Foundation behind me we will have access to networks, to evidence, to expertise and to two and a half centuries of heritage that will enable us to strengthen our reach and our influence.”
MCG was established almost 25 years ago to foster collaboration across the maritime charity sector to achieve the greatest impact for seafarers and their families. Its members include seafaring charities operating across all sectors and both within and outside the UK. Recent initiatives include: the Covid-19 Redundancy and Retraining Bursary Fund which provided 105 UK-based seafarers who’d lost work due to Covid with help towards the cost of training to stay in maritime; the Mental Health Awareness Training Standard which was developed in collaboration with training providers, academics and others for use in commissioning training for seafarers and is being widely used; and an extremely successful conference in September 2022 to help set the MCG’s agenda for the next two years.
Priorities include supporting the sector to embrace and promote Equality, Diversity and Inclusion (ED&I), developing a map of need to identify who’s using its services and where the gaps are, and assessing the future of effective caseworking and how to make sure it’s accessible to all those who need it.
Reflecting on his time at MCG, Cdr Hockley said: “I’ve been with MCG since 2009, first for Trinity House and then as Chair, so I know it well. It originated as a small working group of the Merchant Navy Welfare Board and is now an independent organisation with administrative support provided by the Nautilus Welfare Fund. It has also expanded to become truly maritime with new members joining us from the Royal Navy and Royal Marines and international players such as LRF and the TK Foundation.
Welcoming the new Chair, he said: “It’s time for new, younger blood and Tim will be brilliant. I know he will continue to champion these issues and take the MCG onto the next level. He comes from a background of working with research organisations and that will be invaluable. He’ll bring new vigour to the role with new contacts and a totally independent perspective.”
IUA outlines business plan for 2023
The International Underwriting Association (IUA) has published its business plan for 2023, highlighting key challenges for London Market insurance companies in the months ahead. Inflation, the need to recruit and train new talent and the importance of contract clarity are all issues the association will be addressing with its members.
The IUA’s Cyber Underwriting Group is developing a research paper on supply chain risk, whilst its Claims Strategy Committee will oversee a review of claims agreement procedures that aim to maintain a market-wide standard in claims processing.
Dave Matcham (pictured), chief executive of the IUA, said: “The IUA’s mission statement is to secure an optimal trading environment for London insurance companies and all our activities are targeted towards this achieving this outcome. We are catering for a growing number of members as our sector continues to thrive. We are now proud to represent a record 73 different firms.
“Our business plan this year addresses both market cycles facing different classes of business and regulatory challenges such as the scope of the Financial Conduct Authority’s fair value requirements. 2023 is also a big year for the development of digital processing in the London Market as our Joint Venture with Lloyd’s and DXC Technology pushes ahead with designing new services. A new generation placing platform will also be released and a new digital version of the Market Reform Contract.”
Public policy work this year will include monitoring the implementation of a reform package for Solvency II and following a review of the Senior Managers and Certification Regime. A final version is also expected in the year’s first quarter of a supervisory statement on the regulation of branches operated by EU insurance companies outside the trading bloc. Later in 2023 the IUA will be preparing to respond to a forthcoming review of the Insurance Distribution Directive.
The IUA’s business plan also addresses diversity, equity and inclusion policies which it is keen to promote, both within its own organisation and throughout the industry groups that it operates for the benefit of member companies and the wider London Market. A charter document will be produced formalising inclusive behaviours and principles for the benefit of all market committee participants.
Silverstream Technologies appoints Nick Chrissos as Chief Data Officer
Air lubrication technology specialist Silverstream Technologies has announced the appointment of Nick Chrissos as Chief Data Officer (CDO) to lead the company’s data strategy at a pivotal time of growth for the business.
Nick’s appointment marks a significant moment for Silverstream as the company places increasing strategic importance on customer data to its overarching value proposition.
Nick joins Silverstream following two decades at global technology giant Cisco, where he held various roles including Chief Technology Officer (CTO) globally for small businesses, and Director of Innovation in EMEAR.
As the innovation leader for Cisco in Europe, Middle East, Africa and Russia, Nick was involved in some of the most technologically advanced projects in the world, from smart cities and autonomous vehicles to agriculture robots and fish farming automation. During this time, he led some of the best engineering teams to create viable solutions for deploying cutting-edge technologies across multiple sectors and industries.
Nick, and the existing data science team he will lead at Silverstream, will help the business fully utilise the power of its data. One of the areas that Nick will focus on is the application of advanced data analytics, AI and machine learning tools to support optimal use of Silverstream’s technology, as well as other aspects of ship operation.
Nick Chrissos, CDO, Silverstream Technologies, said: “Playing a central role in the evolution of Silverstream, and to the disruption of an industry that is ready for digitisation, was an opportunity that I couldn’t resist. Silverstream’s technology is already successful in the market but having the urge to take it much further, believing in the power of the data, and investing in the R&D around new solutions, defines Silverstream as an innovation leader in maritime.
“What we are trying to achieve requires brilliant vision and huge effort, but this all depends on the calibre of the people and the unique culture of the company underpinning it. This was for me the most critical factor when I agreed to join Silverstream.”
Noah Silberschmidt, Founder & CEO, Silverstream Technologies, said: “Bringing onboard a data and innovation leader from one of the world’s top technology organisations is very exciting for Silverstream and is another sign of where we are headed. Nick will provide strategic direction and industry-leading expertise to our data practices and will help Silverstream generate new value streams for our customers. We are at the tip of the iceberg when it comes to harnessing the true power of our data, and Nick’s experience in creating innovative products and services based on that data will prove to be a very strong asset for Silverstream in the coming years.”
Pressure on to reduce underwater radiated noise from ship propellers
A propeller technology capable of substantially reducing the underwater radiated noise (URN) generated by ships’ propellers has been developed by Oscar Propulsion Limited and the University of Strathclyde.The patented PressurePores™ system reduces propeller tip vortex cavitation by applying a small number of strategically placed holes in the propeller blades. The addition of these pressure-relieving holes allows ships to operate with a more silent propeller.
Lars Eikeland, Marine Director, Oscar Propulsion, said: “Underwater radiated noise is one of the most adverse environmental by-products from commercial shipping, yet unlike other forms of marine pollution, there is currently no international legislation in place to prevent or reduce this source of environmental damage.
“Increasing noise levels, especially in the low-frequency range, is disorientating marine fauna and disrupting their communication signals, leading to behavioural changes or extinction. We now have a cost-effective, easy-to-apply solution that prevents this from happening.”
Following four years of comprehensive computational fluid dynamics (CFD), modelling and cavitation tunnel tests during the solution’s development phase at Strathclyde, it was demonstrated that PressurePores can reduce cavitation volume by almost 14% and URN by up to 10dB.
Results were further verified in tests on the sub-cavitating propellers on Princess Royal, a 19m research catamaran operated by Newcastle University. And last year, CFD Finite Element (FE) propeller stress tests were successfully completed in accordance with classification society DNV rules.
“We have found the optimum number of holes required to reduce the noise. So long as the right number of holes are placed in the most effective positions, a cavitation sweet spot can be achieved,” said Eikeland.
“It’s not a case of simply drilling holes into the blades, as this will affect the propeller’s thrust capability. We know exactly where to place the holes for maximum efficiency and for optimum noise reduction.”
It is interesting to note that propeller cavitation can generate as much as 188dB of underwater radiated noise and can be heard by marine fauna 100 miles away.
According to the US National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, anything above 160db can pose a significant risk to marine life.
Commenting on the impact noise has on marine life, Eikeland said: “Noise levels in the ocean due to maritime activity has been increasing for decades and expected to double by 2030. URN can cause irreversible damage to marine wildlife through stress, habitat displacement, reduced reproduction, lost feeding opportunities and even death, greatly changing the marine ecosystem and impacting biodiversity.”
Eikeland furthered: “PressurePores has a major mitigating effect on propeller cavitation and URN and can be incorporated into new propellers or retrofitted to existing propellers either in drydock or possibly in-water.”
While Oscar Propulsions technology is suitable for all types of vessels, they are particularly suitable for naval vessels, yachts, fishing fleets, offshore vessels and cruise & research ships operating in sensitive environments. The technology can be applied to all types of propellers, including pods and thrusters.
Dimitris Anassis joins Hill Dickinson’s shipping disputes team in Greece
Hill Dickinson has boosted its shipping disputes and commercial litigation team in Greece with the lateral hire of shipping partner, Dimitris Anassis. An experienced shipping litigator, Dimitris joins the firm after 14 years (the last six of which as a partner) at Norton Rose Fulbright and Thomas Cooper / Penningtons Manches Cooper. He will be based in Hill Dickinson’s Piraeus office.
Ranked in both The Legal 500 and Chambers and Partners, Dimitris’ areas of expertise include all types of dry shipping and international trade disputes under English law, including charterparty disputes, bills of lading, tort claims, ship sale and purchase disputes, shipbuilding and refund guarantee disputes and other trade disputes, together with specific expertise in trade sanctions. A native Greek speaker, Dimitris is admitted both as a solicitor (Law Society of England & Wales) and an attorney at law (Athens Bar Association) and is also a Fellow of the Chartered Institute of Arbitrators (FCIArb).
Dimitris joins the shipping disputes and P&I/claims team, led by Maria Moisidou and Timon Karamanos, together with Alexander Freeman who was recently promoted to partner in 2022.
Welcoming his arrival, Jasel Chauhan, Head of Hill Dickinson’s Piraeus office, said: “Dimitris has established himself as a well-known and trusted lawyer for shipping and international trade disputes – both in Greece and internationally. We are delighted to welcome Dimitris to Hill Dickinson and his recruitment reinforces our commitment to strengthening our presence and providing additional support to our client base in Greece, Europe and the Middle East.”
Tony Goldsmith, Global Head of Marine at Hill Dickinson, added: “Dimitris is an excellent addition to our shipping team in Piraeus. He joins a market leading, full-service shipping team which continues to develop our long-standing relationships in Greece and further afield.”
Established in 1994, Hill Dickinson’s Piraeus office provides a full spectrum of English law legal services to the marine and energy sectors, advising on all forms of shipping litigation and dispute resolution, ship finance and corporate transactional matters. Clients include shipowners, operators and charterers, maritime insurers, underwriters and P&I clubs, banks, private equity firms and other financial institutions, brokers, commodities traders, port operators and major oil companies.
Live SWOT analysis webinar to examine low- and zero-emission fuels in the maritime sector
Cyprus Shipping Deputy Ministry (SDM) to organize “SWOT-ing the potential of low- and zero- emission fuels in the maritime sector” – a hybrid webinar examining the safety, costs, maturity, and availability of new bunker fuels.
An initiative of the Cyprus SDM in association with the University of Houston hosted by PwC Cyprus Experience Centre, the three-hour webinar will be held on 19 January 2023 starting at 15:30 EET. Live streamed in real-time, experts from industry and academia will assess the strengths, weaknesses, opportunities and threats of fuels including hydrogen, ammonia, biofuel and methanol.
Participants will discuss engine safety and compatibility risks, fuel costs, suitability of fuels for short and long-distance routes, global availability, and a timeline for uptake.
A team of experts will populate the SWOT analysis matrix in real-time during the webinar, in combination with commentary from the audience. The conclusions drawn from this will provide critical insights to regulators, equipment manufacturers, shipping companies, class, academics, and NGOs – all of whom will play key roles in the formulation and implementation of effective legislation relating to these potential fuels of the future.
The webinar will be divided into sessions relating to each fuel (hydrogen, ammonia, biofuels and methanol). Each session will feature a presentation from the session’s key speaker, followed by interventions by the audience in formulating the SWOT Analysis and concluding remarks from a risk assessment analyst.
Commenting on the upcoming webinar, Cyprus’ Shipping Deputy Minister to the President, Vassilios Demetriades, said: “The maritime industry has entered a period of significant transformation over the last few years, with incoming regulations encouraging much-needed change in shipping’s journey towards decarbonization. That said, progress has been slow. It’s clear that there is an urgent need for genuine industry-wide collaboration around the challenges faced within this changing landscape – one of these challenges being the ongoing debate around which fuel will power shipping’s future.
“Our initiative to organize a live SWOT analysis together with the Division of Energy and Innovation of the University of Houston will be extremely useful for regulators and industry in identifying R&D priorities, with the aim of ensuring the effective use of funds and more targeted research to accelerate the uptake of non-fossil fuels. We look forward to hosting a diverse range of experts and believe that their insights, and the outcomes of discussions, will drive positive progress in shipping’s journey towards achieving its net-zero ambitions. Together we are building a greener future for shipping!”
To register for the event visit online.
“K” LINE President’s 2023 New Year Message predicts ‘best ever’ financial results
In his New Year Message delivered on January 4, “K” LINE President & CEO Yukikazu Myochin said that financial results for the current fiscal year are expected to be the best ever as a result of internal cost-cutting and optimisation measures as well as strong markets in its principal business sectors of dry bulk, energy and logistics support including containers and car carriers.
Going forward, he said that “K” LINE would concentrate its management resources “on three businesses that will play a leading role in driving growth, namely the coal and iron ore carrier, car carrier, and LNG carrier businesses.”
Meanwhile, in the containership sector, where “K” LINE supports operations of the ONE (Ocean Network Express) joint service with NYK and MOL and based in Singapore, the compnay has recently established new company K Marine Ship Management (KMSM) in order to sustain service quality and innovation. The offshore wind power generation support vessel segment is also being targeted by “K” Line Wind Service (KWS).
Analysing the near-term business environment, the “K” LINE President & CEO noted that “a variety of unclear and uncertain situations have emerged that could have a significant impact on economic activities, including the protracted crisis in Ukraine triggered by Russia and the resulting surge in energy resource prices; the review of monetary easing measures in response to strong inflation and rapid interest rate hikes; and the direction of China’s zero-covid policy.”
Characterising the upcoming Chinese New Year of the water rabbit as signifying “both an end and a beginning”, Yukikazu Myochin expressed his confidence to “K” LINE employees that “as we enter a new stage, we shall each blaze new trails and build great momentum together.” The full New Year message can be read on the “K” LINE website.
Blue Sky Maritime Coalition expands leadership team with new hire
The Blue Sky Maritime Coalition (BSMC) has appointed renewable energy and clean technology leader, Jennifer States (pictured), to serve as Vice President and Chief Strategy Officer.
“We are excited to expand our Blue Sky team by adding Jennifer and her wealth of experience in maritime decarbonization and sustainability. Jennifer is a strong leader and comes at a pivotal time for Blue Sky as we continue to bring North American maritime stakeholders together to accelerate the transition of waterborne transportation in the U.S. and Canada toward net-zero greenhouse gas emissions,” said David Cummins, BSMC President and CEO.
Jennifer brings 20 years of industry experience in renewable energy and clean technology, non-profit, government and research environments. She most recently served as Vice President for Projects and Strategy for Washington Maritime Blue, a cluster organization for maritime innovation and sustainability. She has also been an active member of BSMC since its inception, serving on its Board of Directors as Government Relations Director and as the Policy Workstream Lead.
"I'm thrilled to start this new chapter with Blue Sky Maritime Coalition,” said Jennifer States, BSMC Vice President and Chief Strategy Officer. “I look forward to the opportunity to focus on maritime decarbonisation efforts across the US and Canada.
“Having been involved since the initial formation of both Washington Maritime Blue and Blue Sky Maritime Coalition, I know that the collaborative model is critical to accelerating innovations to reduce emissions. The cooperation between these organizations and with our members is critical to the progress that can be made, only by working together across our value chains.”
“Where ambition meets opportunity”: Nor-Shipping and YoungShip launch hunt for 2023’s brightest industry talent
Nor-Shipping and YoungShip have announced that the Young Entrepreneur Award 2023 (YEA) is now open for entries, with talented leaders, innovators and executives under the age of 40 set to vie for industry recognition. The global award initiative, which last year honoured Christiaan Nijst, Co-Founder and Director of Netherlands-based Value Maritime, is now in its tenth anniversary year, giving entrants a unique chance to profile themselves, and their businesses, at Nor-Shipping 2023 and beyond.
“This is always one of the most anticipated ‘reveals’ at Nor-Shipping,” comments Per Martin Tanggaard (pictured), Director External Relations, Nor-Shipping. “In many ways the YEA accolade gives the industry a glimpse of the future – showcasing not only tomorrow’s business leaders, but also the breakthrough solutions that can solve pressing challenges and create new commercial value.
“In this respect it offers a huge opportunity; both for entrants and established industry players. It gives fresh talent access to the promotional platform of their dreams, while highlighting business, investment and #PartnerShip possibilities to seasoned decisionmakers looking to gain advantage in a rapidly changing market. As befits its standing, the competition is always intense, with the best young minds the industry can offer fighting for recognition. I can’t wait to see the entries flowing in.”
When the nominations do arrive, it’ll be YoungShip’s task to head the awards jury charged with assessing them. The organisation, and its expert judging panel, will be looking for standout individuals and teams with an ability to turn challenges into maritime business opportunities, create jobs, enhance efficiency, adopt best practices, and address sustainability issues. The winner will be revealed at the Nor-Shipping Opening Ceremony in Oslo City Hall on 5 June.
Once crowned, the individual or team will be promoted through both Nor-Shipping and YoungShip’s extensive industry networks, while also receiving exposure with space in Nor-Shipping’s Blue Economy Hall in Lillestrøm during the main Your Arena for Ocean Solutions exhibition, running from 6-9 June.
It’s a cocktail of opportunity that worked wonders for Christiaan Nijst, who says: “It transformed industry awareness levels for Value Maritime and our Filtree ‘plug-and-play’ gas cleaning system.”
“We’re a relatively young business and, although well established in our key segments, face a challenge when it comes to really making waves on a global scale. The Young Entrepreneur Award helped put the business, and our patented gas cleaning and carbon capture technology, on a different footing. It directly contributed to the formation of new contacts, relationships and, at the end of the day, business for Value Maritime. I’d recommend entering to anyone keen to take their development on to the next level.”
Alongside Nijst, previous winners include names of the order of Boyen Slat, founder of Ocean Cleanup, Tuomas Riski, CEO of Norsepower, Agnes Árnadóttir and Espen Larsen-Hakkebo, the CEO and CFO of sustainable tourism operator Brim Explorer, and Tor Østervold, founder of ECOsubsea.
“Young entrepreneurs often have the vision, understanding and ability to approach entrenched industry challenges from completely new perspectives, unlocking not only solutions, but real business value,” notes Lene Osen Osnes, Secretary General, YoungShip International. “However, getting the awareness they deserve can be an uphill struggle.
“That’s what this award is all about. It bridges a generational divide and opens the door to opportunity, for a whole range of stakeholders. We’re delighted to support it once again and shine a spotlight on the next generation of industry leaders. If you’re under 40 and want to make your mark in maritime, then this is your chance!”
Alongside the YEA, Nor-Shipping, which this year has the main theme of #PartnerShip, also runs the Next Generation Ship Award and Ocean Solutions Award.
Nor-Shipping 2023 takes place across venues in both Oslo and Lillestrøm. In addition to the awards initiatives, international visitors can look forward to the main exhibition, spanning some 22,000 m2, and an activity programme that boasts the C-level Ocean Leadership Conference, Blue Talks, The Fourth International Autonomy Summit, AfterWork social schedule and much more.
World’s first AiP for Ammonia Floating Storage and Regasification Barge (A-FSRB) issued
ClassNK has issued an Approval in Principle (AiP) for an ammonia floating storage and regasification barge (A-FSRB) jointly developed by NYK Line, Nihon Shipyard Co., Ltd. (NSY), and IHI Corporation (IHI). This is the world's first AiP for A-FSRBs handling ammonia as cargo.
The A-FSRB is an offshore floating facility that can receive and store ammonia that has been transported via ship as a liquid, warm and regasify ammonia according to demand, and then send it to a pipeline onshore. According to its developers, the design offers the advantages of shorter construction time and lower costs in comparison to the construction of onshore storage tanks and regasification plants.
ClassNK carried out the design review of the A-FSRB in line with its Part PS of Rules for the Survey and Construction of Steel Ships and Guidelines for Floating Offshore Facilities for LNG/LPG Production, Storage, Offloading and Regasification. Currently, there are no international regulations for floating storage and regasification facilities when the cargo is ammonia, and it is expected that the unique requirements of ammonia will have to be reflected in the design.
Therefore, the companies and ClassNK conducted a comprehensive risk identification of various contingencies and worked to identify technical issues from the initial study stage. The risk identification was conducted using the gap analysis method, which identified differences between conventional ships and offshore floating facilities (heavy oil, LNG, etc.) and evaluated the impact of such differences. Based on its review and the risk identification results, ClassNK issued the AiP for the A-FSRB.
Separately, ClassNK has released amendments to its Rules and Guidance for the Survey and Construction of Steel Ships, some po which are as follows:
• Amendments of requirements for strength assessment by cargo hold analysis based on feedback from impact study carried out with the cooperation of various shipyards on ClassNK’s comprehensive revision of its structural rules
• Increase of the maximum applicable plate thickness of rolled steels for low temperature service used for cargo tanks of ships carrying liquefied gases in bulk and fuel tanks of low flash point fuels such as LNG.
• Specification of requirements for ships equipped with accumulator battery systems using large-capacity lithium-ion batteries and the relevant class notations
• Amendments on the requirements for thickness measurements at Special Surveys for the ships applicable to ESP Code in accordance with the MSC Resolution and IACS UR
• Addition of measures against hydraulic lock of steering gear in accordance with the IACS UR
• Prohibition of the use of antifouling paints containing cybutryne in accordance with the MEPC Resolution
The amendments are available via “My Page > Rule Amendments for Technical Rules” on the ClassNK website
Survitec receives inaugural award for contributions to maritime safety with Seahaven solution
Global Survival Technology solutions provider Survitec has received the inaugural MV Derbyshire Award from the Liverpool Shipwreck and Humane Society (LS&HS) for its Seahaven Advanced Evacuation Systems (AES). The award celebrates individuals, companies or organisations that have made an important contribution to maritime safety in the Northwest of England region.
LS&HS presented the award to Stew Gregory (pictured, left), the lead designer of Seahaven, at Survitec’s facility in Birkenhead, UK. Seahaven is the world’s largest inflatable lifeboat designed to evacuate up to 1,060 passengers in under 22 minutes while providing up to 85% additional deck space for cruiseship owners and operators to generate revenue.
Tony Jones (pictured, right), Chair of the LS&HS, said: “The MV Derbyshire Award reflects the focus of the Derbyshire families, and Survitec’s Seahaven was chosen as the winner of the 2022 MV Derbyshire Award as it encompasses all that is important in developing solutions for safety at sea.”
The judges felt that Seahaven’s technology, including launching at the push of a button, deploying in under four minutes and travelling independently for 24 hours, was innovative and redefined the previously held concepts of maritime safety, especially for mass evacuation. It is also a hugely visible and significant statement of the importance of saving lives at sea.
Mr Jones added: “This pioneering approach to maritime safety reflects the values of the LS&HS, as it pushes the boundaries of life-saving.”
Receiving the award, Mr Gregory said: “Over the past 100 years, Survitec has demonstrated a commitment to innovation, investment and development of Survival Technology for those who rely and depend on it. We are extremely pleased to collect this award from the Liverpool Shipwreck and Humane Society in recognition of Survitec’s sole purpose. We Exist to Protect Lives.”
This inaugural annual award for maritime safety is named after the MV Derbyshire, a Liverpool ship that was tragically lost on 9 September 1980 during Typhoon Orchid, south of Japan. She is the largest British ship to have been lost at sea, with the deaths of 42 crew members, plus two wives. For decades, the MV Derbyshire families focused not just on justice for their loved ones, but on the wider issues of maritime standards and safety, seeking to ensure that no more innocent lives are lost at sea.
England’s Northwest region has been long renowned for both its shipping history and also its maritime innovation, and now the Liverpool Shipwreck and Humane Society, formed in 1839, has launched this award for which nominations will open again in June 2023.
Maritime UK appoints new Chair and Vice Chair
Maritime UK, the umbrella organisation for the UK’s maritime sector, has appointed Robin Mortimer as its new chair and Tom Boardley as vice chair. The former was nominated by the British Ports Association and UK Major Ports Group whilst the latter was nominated by the UK Chamber of Shipping.
Currently CEO at the Port of London Authority, Robin Mortimer (pictured) was previously Vice Chair and replaces Sarah Kenny who served as Chair from 2021. He started his term on 1 January 2023 and will be working with members to help steer the sector through the next two years, with its response to climate change top of the agenda. Maritime UK will be working closely with the government on its refresh to the Clean Maritime Plan, due to be published in 2023.
Commenting on his appointment, Mr Mortimer said: “I am honoured to be taking the Chair of Maritime UK and to be given the opportunity to serve the UK's maritime industries at such a crucial time. There is now a much greater appreciation and understanding of the maritime sector within the UK, and how we can support major national missions like, decarbonisation, levelling up and becoming a research and development powerhouse.
“Our task over the next two years is to embed that progress, deliver a robust and tangible Clean Maritime Plan, increase the impact of Maritime UK’s programmes in critical areas like people and bang the drum for UK PLC across the world. All of this whilst responding to challenging headwinds caused by underlying economic conditions and geopolitics. I am convinced that by working closer and closer together our sector will thrive, and I look forward to working with the member community to accelerate our progress toward Maritime 2050.”
Maritime UK brings together the country’s shipping, ports, services, engineering and leisure marine industries. Its purpose is to champion and enable a thriving maritime sector and it has responsibility for the coordination and delivery of industry recommendations within the UK Government’s Maritime 2050 plan. Members include Belfast Maritime Consortium, British Marine, British Ports Association, CLIA UK & Ireland, Connected Places Catapult, Institute of Chartered Shipbrokers, Maritime London, Maritime UK South West, Mersey Maritime, Nautilus International, Port Skills and Safety, Shipping Innovation, Society of Maritime Industries, Solent LEP, The Baltic Exchange, The Seafarers' Charity, The Workboat Association, Trinity House, UK Chamber of Shipping and the UK Major Ports Group.
Tankers International adds to VLCC Pool off back of buoyant end-2022
Tankers International, the world's leading shipping pool for VLCCs, has grown rapidly throughout 2022, bringing the total size of the Tankers International fleet to 66 VLCCs, across 8 pool partners.
The Tankers International pool has added more modern tonnage throughout 2022, bringing the average age of the fleet down whilst increasing its size. Tankers International’s 66 strong fleet now has an average age of 7.8 years. The specialist scrubber pool has grown to 34 vessels from 19 vessels at the start of 2022 with an average age of 6.8 years decreasing from 7.5 years.
Tankers International pool partners benefit from improved cash flow, allowing the vessels to trade on longer, more profitable routes, alongside streamlined operations and the strong market intelligence of Tankers International. The unique pooling model leverages the collective strength of the pool, in data, scale, and size, to maximise earnings for pool partners.
Tankers International's Scrubber Pool operates as a sub-pool, sitting within the Tankers International umbrella of specialised Pools. This means that it operates from a robust financial and commercial perspective whilst continuing to share resources across the entire Tankers International fleet.
Charlie Grey, Chief Operating Officer, Tankers International, commented: "The VLCC sector's recovery has been dramatic, especially during the second half of last year. However, this recovery has arrived alongside changes in trade routes as our market becomes more complex. As a result, we have seen the value of pooling continue to increase. We are incredibly pleased that the Tankers International VLCC pooling model continues to provide exceptional value for our partners."
2022 record year for tanker derivative volumes: Baltic Exchange
The derivatives market for clean and dirty tankers saw increased traded volumes in 2022, according to data released by the Baltic Exchange.
Tanker Forward Freight Agreement (FFA) volumes hit 734,972 lots, up 33% on 2021.
Dry Forward Freight Agreement (FFA) volumes reached 2,218,249 lots, down 12% on 2021. Handysize volumes continued to grow following changes implemented to the Baltic Exchange’s Handysize Index in 2020. Options trading volumes in the dry market were 395,163.
Commenting on the figures, Baltic Exchange Chief Executive Mark Jackson (pictured) said: "2022 was another year of growth for the tanker FFA market and a good performance for dry bulk. Underpinning these volumes are world-class clearing, volatility, trust in the Baltic Exchange’s settlement data and increased participation by owners, charterers and traders. The Baltic Exchange's status as a regulated benchmark provider has helped to create a mature and liquid market.”
He added: "Tanker market volatility has largely been caused by Russia's invasion of Ukraine and volumes jumped significantly after war broke out. This was seen across all sizes and sectors from VLCCs down.
"The most liquid dirty route was the VLCC route Middle East Gulf to China (TD3C), but TD20 (Suezmax) contributed volume too. There were good levels of activity on the clean routes with MR TC2, TC14 and the LR1 route TC5 all contributing significantly. We were also pleased to see continued volume growth in the handysize segment following the change in our vessel description to a 38,000-dwt type."
Britannia P&I launches TR(B) America
Tindall Riley & Co Ltd./ the Managers of Britannia P&I announce that on 5 January 2023 it acquired its former exclusive correspondent, B Americas P&I LLC, and has renamed it TR(B) Americas Inc. Going forward TR(B) Americas, which is based at 1 Rockefeller Plaza in New York, will operate as a full regional hub of the Managers. B Americas was opened on 30 March 2020 under the leadership of Mike Unger, who continues to head up the newly formed TR(B) Americas.
TR(B) Americas will continue to provide support to all Britannia Members requiring assistance with claims and other matters in the Americas. TR(B) Americas has recently expanded and is now a five-strong team dedicated to providing exceptional service to Britannia P&I’s Members in the region and with the aim of facilitating the growth of the Club’s membership base in the Americas.
The Americas are an increasingly important market for Britannia P&I and account for approximately 5% of its entered owned tonnage. The launch of TR(B) Americas reinforces Britannia P&I’s commitment to the local market and its aim of continuing to strengthen the service provided to its Members.
TR(B) Americas joins Britannia P&I’s and its Managers’ global footprint, with regional hubs also in Denmark, Greece, Hong Kong, Japan and Singapore as well as Exclusive Correspondents in Korea, Spain and Taiwan. Those hubs reflect the Club’s strategy of providing its Members with a local personalised service backed by a global presence in the market.
“We are delighted that TR(B) Americas has now joined the Britannia P&I network of regional hubs and we are confident it will continue, under Mike Unger’s guidance, to enhance the service provided to our Members across the region, as well as serve as a platform for future business opportunities”, says Mike Hall, Deputy CEO of Tindall Riley (Britannia) Ltd.
“I am very pleased that the B Americas office is now a regional hub and, along with the rest of the team consisting of Charles Johnson, Marcela Pizarro, Bryant Yap and John Meyers, we look forward to assisting Members based in the Americas and the worldwide membership who require support with issues here,” says Mike Unger, Director, TR(B) Americas.
ENDS
SSY Futures supports FFA volume growth
The latest figures compiled from the clearing houses have underlined the continued depth of the market for freight derivatives, both for tankers and dry bulk. According to the Baltic Exchange in 2022, the tanker market saw 734,972 lots traded (up 33% on 2021), whilst dry Forward Freight Agreement (FFA) volumes once again broke the 2 million mark, hitting 2,218,249 lots.
“Taking a closer look at the breakdown of the figures,” comments Przemek Koralewski, Head of Sales and Business Development at SSY, “we saw a very positive growth in the dry bulk handysize and supramax sectors. Today these markets represent 20% of all dry bulk FFAs traded. In 2020 there were zero handysize FFAs traded.
“This is a market which SSY Futures has been working to grow and we are very proud of this development. We have introduced many new participants and we feel rewarded by the level of enquiry SSY Futures is receiving from owner operators and charterers: this trend looks set to continue into 2023. It is all too easy to focus solely on the capesize and panamax segments, but as a big full-service broker with physical and futures teams working in lockstep, we see the smaller vessel sizes as a key part of our offering.”
Koralewski adds that 2023 looks set to be another volatile year, with the Baltic Dry Index already having seen a significant dip of late. “In a strongly cyclical sector, having an FFA strategy delivers advantages to market participants,” he says.
ONE upgrades Maputo/Mombasa India Middle East (MIM) service frequency to weekly
Ocean Network Express (ONE) is pleased to announce that the Maputo/Mombasa India Middle East service (MIM) will increase its sailing frequency from fortnightly to weekly in January 2023.
The increased frequency will begin from the Westbound sailing arriving at Jebel Ali on 20th January 2023 and the Eastbound sailing from Mombasa on 31st January 2023.
The MIM service rotation remains unchanged as follows:
Jebel Ali – Mundra – Mombasa - Maputo – Jebel Ali (Weekly frequency)
The upgrade to a weekly sailing frequency will provide greater flexibility and convenience for ONE’s customers.
ONE is the joint container service operated by NYK, MOL and “K” Line, based out of Singapore.
IRS Review of 2022 and Outlook for 2023 - going from strength to strength
2022 has been another significant and positive year for Indian Register of Shipping(IRS) as the organisation goes from strength to strength. IRS has once again achieved strong and sustained business growth with inroads into new markets. The last 12 months has seen fleet addition of over 200 ships with more than 7 million GT – and an increased global geographical presence.
Executive Chairman, Mr Arun Sharma (pictured), said: "IRS has continued to be a dynamic, pioneering and influential force throughout 2022. We have made great strides in the move towards sustainable shipping and remain trusted partners to a host of maritime stakeholders. 2023 will see more shifts in the regulatory landscape globally. However, the IRS reputation for excellence, quality and maritime safety will remain unrivalled."
Decarbonisation has remained high on the agenda for the organisation as the industry looks to reduce carbon emissions. Several initiatives have been taken towards the development of alternative fuels ecosystem. IRS has conducted successful trials using biofuels with encouraging results. Rules have been developed for Ammonia and Hydrogen-fuelled vessels, as well as Fixed Offshore Wind Turbine installations.
Classification of the first hybrid battery-powered catamaran, built by Indian shipbuilder Cochin Shipyard, was another highlight. The catamaran ferry, designed for shore charging and certified to carry 100 passengers, is propelled by a hybrid-electric propulsion system by means of lithium titanium oxide (LTO) batteries and DG Sets. IRS has developed Guidelines for battery powered vessels and the vessel was assigned with the notation “BATTERY PROP “.
The organisation has initiated a digitalisation journey along with a leading industry partner based on global best practices and adoption experience. It will focus on Digital Twin concept, data analytics, knowledge management as well as life cycle management of assets.
IRS renewed its commitment to the Indian Defence forces and has been engaged in several pioneering projects for Indian Navy, including diving support vessels, shallow water ASW corvettes, survey vessels large, floating dock and various auxiliary vessels. IRS is involved in Indian Coast Guard new construction projects like fast patrol vessels, interceptor crafts, pollution control vessels and several others. A series of nine Floating Border Outposts (FBOPs) for the Border Security Force, Ministry of Home Affairs have been classed as well.
Effective stakeholder engagement remains a key focus. IRS has extended its commitment to the Asia Pacific region with new offices and an expanded service portfolio. IRS Advisory Committee Meeting and a Customer Meet in Singapore - saw plans for the region outlined. IRS also hosted a stakeholder meet on research and development activities at its Mumbai head office, as part of efforts to strengthen initiatives in this field.
In addition, IRS continued its drive to improve inland vessel safety throughout India, having played an integral role in the drafting of the Inland Vessels Act 2021. Based on the IV Act 2021, IRS drafted rules in consultation with Ministry, State Governments and various other stakeholders. The draft Rules and Regulations for Construction and Classification of Inland Waterways Ships are ship-type specific to ensure safety of cargo, assets and the environment.
IRS signed MOUs with an array of shipyards such as GRSE, HSL, and GSL. Agreements were also penned with a host of prominent educational institutions, including NITIE and Indian Institute of Technology Guwahati.
There remains a resolute focus on training and upskilling staff through structured training and regular mentoring. Several training programs were conducted throughout the year for surveyors and senior staff towards ensuring continuous commitment to quality operations. The organisation has also taken initiatives to identify next generation leadership well equipped towards building a resilient and future ready organisation in an increasingly complex environment.
IRS was awarded the prestigious 'National Best Employer Brands 2021 Award' by the World HRD Congress held in Mumbai during March’22 for having employee wellbeing and an employee-first philosophy at the core of its business.
IEC Telecom becomes an official Starlink reseller
Leading international satellite service operator IEC Telecom has kickstarted 2023 by introducing an innovative suite of services and solutions powered by Starlink. The new service portfolio has been designed to address specific communication requirements of a range of satcom users, from home office workers to international enterprises and maritime businesses.
This announcement follows the signing of the reseller agreement between Starlink and IEC Telecom, which took place in December 2022.
“Covid-19 and the political turbulence of 2022 shed light on the importance of having uninterrupted connectivity, not only as means of business continuity but also in relation to safety and in-time response to unforeseen circumstances,” explains Erwan Emilian (pictured), CEO of IEC Telecom Group. “Our new service portfolio, powered by Starlink, will offer a comprehensive solution for remote operations on land and at sea.”
Easy-to-deploy new land solutions by Starlink are designed to offer maximum flexibility for mobile units and fixed deployments. Through OneGate by IEC Telecom, HQ remains in control of its remote units, enabled by an advanced network management toolkit. Customised solutions have been developed for humanitarian missions, energy/mining/utility enterprises, transportation companies and more.
The new maritime solutions offer the same advantages plus a range of IEC Telecom services specific to offshore use. Compact and easy to set up, the Starlink kits, are suitable for all vessel types, including yachting, commercial shipping, ferries, and cruise ships.
This development happens comes at a time when LEO-powered systems are gaining momentum and the global satellite communications service market is predicted to reach $40 billion by 2030 at an annual growth rate of 7%. Low-Earth Orbit (LEO) satellite technology will take centre stage in this process, accounting for 40% of this market.
ABS and HD Hyundai sign landmark agreement on broad-reaching autonomous projects
ABS and HD Hyundai have signed a comprehensive memorandum of understanding (MoU) to continue working together on industry-leading autonomous projects. Building on shared efforts to expand the development of autonomous navigation technology into critical vessel machinery and safety systems, the organizations met again at the Consumer Electronics Show (CES) in Las Vegas to finalize the agreement covering four areas:
• Artificial Intelligence-based Autonomous Machinery Health Management Function (HiCBM)
• Artificial Intelligence-based Autonomous Safety Management Function (HiCAMS)
• Artificial Intelligence-based Autonomous LNG Fuel Gas Supply System (Hi-GAS+ SMART FGSS)
• Artificial Intelligence-based Smart LNG Boil-off Gas Management System (Hi-GAS+ AI CHS)
“This is an exciting time for innovation and technology breakthroughs in maritime, and we are looking forward to continuing to evolve industry solutions with HD Hyundai to drive more efficient operations and advances in safety, addressing the challenges of today and those in the future,” said Christopher J. Wiernicki, ABS Chairman, President and CEO.
The scope of the MoU builds on the previous Strategic Framework Agreement that the companies signed at the 2022 CES. Under that agreement, ABS worked with HD Hyundai subsidiaries, Avikus and Korea Shipbuilding and Offshore Engineering (KSOE). There were several major achievements including the demonstration of technology developed by Avikus, enabling the 180,000 cbm liquified natural gas (LNG) carrier, Prism Courage, to sail in autonomous mode, under direct supervision, for roughly half of its voyage across the Pacific Ocean.
“The Prism Courage voyage was a milestone for the entire shipping industry and demonstrated the potential of artificial intelligence and autonomous functions to contribute to safe navigation at sea,” said Wiernicki.
“HD Hyundai is one of the most advanced companies in developing and commercializing autonomous navigation technology. We are excited to expand our work with ABS, a leader in the industry in supporting autonomous projects. Through this agreement with ABS, we expect to further advance autonomous vessel technology that will support autonomous engine room operations as well as safety management,” said Ki-sun Chung, President and CEO of HD Hyundai.
ABS and HD Hyundai are coordinating joint development projects (JDPs) to begin in the first quarter of 2023.
ClarkSea Index hit record annual average for 2022
Full year 2022 data points for the international shipping industry have been released by Clarksons Research, whose MD Steve Gordon (pictured) commented: “The ClarkSea, our overall day rate charter index covering seaborne transportation (tankers, bulk carriers, containerships and gas carriers together representing over 80% of global shipping capacity), increased 30% y-o-y to reach an all-time annual high across 2022 of $37,253 / day (the index was started in 1990).
“The maritime sector managed wide ranging disruption during 2022 from global events including the onset of the Ukraine conflict, continued impacts from the Covid-19 pandemic, a slowing world economy and inflation.”
The Clarksons Research head went on to outline divergent trends across the major shipping segments as follows:
Container: The container sector began the year at record levels (with freight and charter rates peaking at around 5-6 times start 2020 levels) but experienced a sharp correction in 2H as trade volumes and congestion unwound. Although charter rates remain well above 2020 levels for the moment, freight rates have returned to start 2020 levels.
Bulkers: Rates generally eased back in 2022 amid pressure on demand and easing congestion, with average bulk carrier earnings falling 24% y-o-y to $20,478/day. Rates were generally more resilient in the smaller sizes where rate levels remained fairly ‘healthy’ for much of the year; average Supramax trip earnings fell 14% to $23,467/day in 2022, whilst Capesize earnings, influenced by soft Chinese demand, dropped 58% y-o-y to $11,877/day.
Tankers: The market saw significant improvement through 2022, benefitting from the redistribution of Russian exports / European imports as a result of the Ukraine conflict and the impact of direct sanctions on tonnage, as well as improved global oil demand and supply ‘post-Covid’. Tanker earnings averaged $40,766/day, more than four times the 30-year low of $7,127/day recorded in 2021. Trends were especially strong in the mid-sized crude and products segments, with VLCC earnings averaging $23,885/day (up from c.$3,000/day in 2021), Aframax earnings averaging a record $55,967/day (up 579% on 2021) and MR earnings averaging a record $31,775/day (up 371%).
LNG: Dayrates reached all-time highs, with short term spot rates and 1 yr TC rates both averaging around $130,000/day in 2022 for a 160k cbm unit (spot rates peaking at c.$450,000/day in November), amid a focus on energy security (particularly in Europe). Newbuild investment also rose to reach a new record, with 186 vessels of an estimated $39bn ordered in 2022, more than double the previous annual record set in 2021.
LPG: VLGC spot earnings rose 53% to $54,088/day, on the back of improving exports from key supplier regions and impacts from vessel delays in some regions.
Chemical Tankers: Term rates rose firmly through 2022, benefitting from reduced competition from swing tonnage amid the very strong clean products market. The 1yr TC for a 19,999 dwt ship reached $21,500/day by end year, up from $13,250/day at the start of the year.
Car Carriers: Rates have hit all-time highs, on the back of a ‘post-Covid’ rebound in car trade, a boost to vessel demand from shifting trade flows and ongoing congestion (see our recent review). By end 2022 the 1yr TC rate for a 6,500 ceu PCTC stood at $105,000/day, up from c.$20,000/day in early 2021.
o
Offshore Oil & Gas: Dayrates for offshore oil and gas rigs and OSVs recovered to post-2014 highs and seem “well set”, whilst offshore wind continued its exciting growth.
Marlink completes migration of UNI-TANKERS’ fleet to its hybrid network
Smart network solutions company Marlink has completed the migration of UNI-TANKERS’ owned fleet to its global hybrid network solution.
The Danish shipping company UNI-TANKERS, recognised for its high operational quality, selected Marlink as an expert partner to support its digital transformation, combining hybrid high-throughput connectivity with cloud-data access, remote IT support, and proactive cyber security to improve performance and operational safety. UNI-TANKERS operates a fleet of approximately 40 owned and chartered oil and chemical tankers, and its customers include some of the world’s best-known producers, refiners, and manufacturers.
Marlink has equipped all vessels owned by UNI-TANKERS with future-proof smart network solutions, combining the full potential of global VSAT, L-band backup, and global 4G connectivity, together with a range of digital solutions including CyberGuard and ITLink IT solutions. Through its XChange platform Marlink will deliver a fully managed service including network management and secure file transfers between ship and shore.
Using the smart routing capabilities of the XChange platform, UNI-TANKERS’ vessels will be able to send and receive data on the most appropriate channel and process data onboard at the edge of the network. Remote IT support is enabled via ITLink, while Marlink’s CyberGuard Threat Detection solution adds an extra layer of security to business and crew communications. Unified Threat Management (UTM) with next-generation firewall functions has also been recently implemented.
Marlink’s hybrid network solution will enable UNI-TANKERS to further enhance its operations, including high volume data transfer to and from its vessels for safe and efficient navigation as well as compliance with prevailing vetting and inspection regimes.
“UNI-TANKERS’ business is built on high-quality service and long-term relationships, and the safe operation of our vessels has the highest priority of both the company and our people,” said Michael Hust, IT Manager at UNI-TANKERS. “Partnering with Marlink has enabled us to take our fleet operations to a new level increasing both operational flexibility and safety which in turn enables us to deliver an even higher level of service to our customers.”
“We are delighted to have completed this successful migration of the UNI-TANKERS fleet to Marlink’s smart hybrid network, a process that relied on close co-operation and a commitment to quality,” said Tore Morten Olsen, President, Maritime, Marlink. “We look forward to fully service UNI-TANKERS’ global operations with the best-in-class network solution.”
Companies should be looking at how to cater for the next generation of seafarers, says MCTC
Companies should be prioritising the needs of the new internet-savvy generation of seafarers to ensure the long-lasting future of shipping, says leading catering management provider MCTC.
With increasing access to the internet, the pressures of recent global crises and having the world at their fingertips, Sven Schroeder (pictured), Managing Director, MCTC Germany believes the new generation of seafarers are facing a new set of challenges and have a new set of needs that the industry must address.
He believes the industry must prepare for the next generation of crews and ensure they have all their training needs at their fingertips, access to health and fitness support, as well as providing them with full support for their mental health.
Mr Schroeder said: “The new set of seafarers are the future of shipping, so we have to make sure we are prioritising their needs to help support them in a lengthy career at sea. Their set of needs are totally different than what we have seen in the past.
“At home, they can buy whatever they need at the click of the button so it’s important that they have that same level of access while away at sea. If we have apps to meet their training needs, we should be ensuring they are suitable for smart phones or tablets.”
International company MCTC provides the full spectrum of catering management services to vessels, from recipe planning, ordering provisions, and budgeting, along with a range of catering and nutrition training courses for galley staff. It also promotes a healthy lifestyle with fitness and mental health initiatives.
MCTC provides all its training services via its fully digital platform Estia, backed up by face-to-face support, including trade tests, onshore training, and vessel visits, which Mr Schroeder believes are still crucial for seafarers’ success.
“There are obviously certain aspects of training that should still be held face-to-face, and I think it is important to make sure we don’t completely eradicate that. But there is a big difference in crew in their late 20s or 30s and those in their 60s.The latter still want to work off excel spreadsheets and not off their phone, but seafarers in their 60s won’t be at sea in the long-term.
“On the other hand, some of our clients are struggling to get good internet on board. I am pleased the IMO Is really encouraging ship owners and managers to provide good internet onboard, to not only help crews connect with their loved ones but to really provide an Internet of Things infrastructure onboard.”
Sembcorp Marine completes third zero-emission battery-powered Ropax ferry
Sembcorp Marine Ltd (the “Company”, together with its subsidiaries, the “Group”) marked the sailaway of the final unit of three identical fully battery-operated roll-on/roll-off passenger (“Ropax”) ferries, following the vessel’s handover to Norwegian ferry operator Norled AS (“Norled”).
The vessel, Leikanger, marks the third and final Ropax unit built for Norled by the Group, following the handover of the sister vessels Hella and Dragsvik, which sailed off in March and July last year.
Constructed based on a proprietary design developed by Sembcorp Marine's wholly- owned subsidiary, LMG Marin AS (“LMG Marin”), Leikanger incorporates environmentally-friendly features. Similar to the sister ferries, Leikanger runs on lithium-ion batteries charged by hydro-electric energy power. The vessel is also able to operate in hybrid mode utilising combined battery-diesel power as an alternative.
Leikanger is also designed with a focus on safety and comfort for passengers and crew. The vessel is equipped with capabilities for optimal performance and enhanced energy efficiency, with innovative features such as quick-connection shore charging plugs, auto-mooring and auto-cross capabilities, efficient hull, propulsion and heat recovery systems, as well as minimised hotel and auxiliary load solutions.
The ferry will be deployed on Norled’s shortsea Hella-Vangsnes-Dragsvik connections in Norway, joining the first sister unit Hella, which commenced service in May 2022, and second sister vessel Dragsvik, which started operations in December 2022. With a service speed of 10 knots, the 82.4-metre long multi-deck, double-ended ferry has the capacity to carry 300 persons, as well as 80 cars or a combination of up to 10 cars and 10 trailer trucks.
These three zero-emission Ropax ferries will further advance Norled’s objective of driving the green shift towards sustainable ferry operations and decarbonisation in the marine industry.
LMG Marin Managing Director Mr Torbjorn Bringedal said: “We are pleased that our proprietary zero-emission Ropax vessel design and innovative hydro-electrification technology have been successfully integrated into the development of Norled’s three battery-operated ferries built by the Group. Custom-designed to fulfill Norled’s sustainability, safety and operational requirements, these Ropax ferries will further enhance Norled’s strategic positioning as a leading operator of sustainable ferry services.”
Mr Tan Heng Jack, the Company’s Head of Specialised Shipbuilding, said: “Our close partnership with Norled has enabled us to successfully complete the triple Ropax newbuilds. We join Norled in celebrating the successful completion of Leikanger with zero lost-time incident and its sailaway for deployment in Norway, together with sister vessels, Hella and Dragsvik, to enhance Norled’s green fleet operations.”
Mr Wong Weng Sun, Sembcorp Marine President & CEO, said: “Sembcorp Marine continues to advance environmental sustainability through developing industry-leading solutions to drive the global transition towards cleaner energy solutions and maritime decarbonisation. The successful completion of the final unit of Norled’s series of three zero-emission Ropax ferries is a validation of our green innovation capabilities and proven expertise in delivering sustainable solutions for the offshore, marine and energy industries.”
DNV and RSI launch Baltic and North Sea green fleet renewal study
DNV and the Responsible Shipping Initiative (RSI), an alliance of Swedish dry bulk charterers, have launched a feasibility study to develop a commercial framework for orders of green-fuelled newbuilds to decarbonize the sea transport supply chain in the Baltic and North Sea areas and beyond. With this project, the RSI members aim to reduce their Scope 3 emissions and meet their sustainability targets in response to growing market demands and regulatory reporting requirements on environmental performance across the value chain.
The RSI members see a strong need for green newbuilds to replace the ageing shortsea fleet operating in the Baltic and North Sea dry bulk trade and beyond. Many of the vessels are expected to reach the end of their economic life in the next five to 10 years. The study, supported by R&D funding from the Swedish traffic administration Trafikverket, aims to accelerate the energy transition in the regional sea trade by identifying opportunities for green fleet renewal through transport systems analysis and interaction with cargo owners, shipowners, suppliers, and authorities.
“Despite great strides being made to reduce our carbon footprint from land transport, progress has been lagging in shipping, even though this accounts for a large share of our transport needs,” said RSI chairman Sebastian Tamm (pictured, right), Sustainability & Logistics Manager at EFO.
“This market-driven initiative is a great opportunity to share knowledge, define parameters and standards, find common ground and discuss possible synergies to determine what is achievable in relation to future shipping needs,” Tamm says. “Through an exchange of knowledge and information, shipowners will be able to gain a better understanding of the market’s requirements to make the right newbuild investment decisions.”
The study will analyse the consequences of introducing new vessels based on two alternative green ship concepts: The ECO-Bulk concept, designed to reduce emissions as much as possible within current commercial terms. And the ZERO-Bulk concept for zero emissions, expected to require more collaboration and longer commitments between stakeholders.
This analysis will examine different scenarios based on the existing commercial frameworks, as well as alternative business models such as collaboration between shipowners and bunker suppliers, and public investment support. It will also factor in new environmental regulations including the EU’s Emissions Trading System for shipping.
“One of the key challenges to the broader uptake of alternative fuels is the uncertainties among shipowners about what the market wants and is willing to pay for over the lifetime of a new vessel,” says Hannes von Knorring (pictured, left), Principal Consultant at DNV Maritime.
“Transport buyers may also lack information on what options are available, and what the practical consequences are to their value chains. We have started by mapping each participating company’s current transport routes, cargo volumes, employed vessels and ports to understand the logistical and cargo handling requirements and identify areas with the largest potential for green fleet renewal.”
Separately, DNV confirmed that its ShipManager software was victim of a cyber-attack on the evening of Saturday 7 January. DNV experts shut down ShipManager’s IT servers in response to the incident and began working closely with global IT security partners to investigate the incident and put in place a technical recovery plan. At the same time, a 24/7 support hotline was put in place by DNV to help affected customers, all of whom can still use the onboard, offline functionalities of the ShipManager software.
COSCO close to acquiring 25% stake in Hamburg’s HHLA terminal
Referring to the publication of a mandatory announcement by COSCO SHIPPING Ports Ltd (CSPL) on the Hong Kong Stock Exchange on 6 January 2023, a spokesperson of Hamburg port and logistics operator HHLA has confirmed that a deal in principle has been agreed.
“in objective, constructive talks between Hamburger Hafen und Logistik AG (HHLA), CSPL and the Federal Ministry for Economic Affairs and Climate Action, it has been possible to agree on concrete conditions for CSPL's participation in HHLA Container Terminal Tollerort GmbH.
“HHLA and CSPL are currently in talks to clarify the final details and are aiming to finalise the transaction soon,” the spokesperson continued. “HHLA is pleased to continue the cooperation with its long-standing business partner COSCO on a new level.
“Since October 2022, HHLA and CSPL have agreed under certain conditions to discuss a shareholding of less than 25 percent in HHLA Container Terminal Tollerort GmbH with the German government. The parties have agreed not to disclose the contents of the agreement.
Shipping companies need to allow more time for crew changes says leading specialists BCS Group - Boers Crew Services
Shipping companies should allow at least three months for crew changes due to the recent rise in seafarers from South Asia and the challenges in arranging visas for them, says BCS Group – Boers Crew Services.
Leading specialists in crew services, Boers says the ongoing conflict in Ukraine has led to a rise in seafarers from other nationalities including Pakistan, Bangladesh and Sri Lanka, to help fill the shortage of crews.
This has meant that the complex visa process needed for crew changes is taking even longer as the embassies do not have previous experience in dealing with these nationalities, and companies are not allowing enough time for the application process.
Hans Boers, Group director and Co-Owner says good communication is crucial between Boers and the embassies to ensure the visas can be completed as swiftly as possible.
“The visas are taking longer for these nationalities because they are new for the embassies and there are a lot more complexities to deal with and it is taking longer for the visas to be issued. We have a very good communication with the Visa Facilitation Service and back-office staff at the embassies which is vital for the process.
“I do feel that shipping companies should be arranging crew changes much more in advance because of this issue. Using our letter of invitation and our networks with the embassies, the visas can be issued on time - but companies need to be applying three months in advance.”
As leading industry experts in facilitating crew changes in The Netherlands, Belgium and Germany, Boers speaks regularly to people in Brussels about the issues with visa arrangements who have told them some companies do not have enough understanding of the system and how to get a visa arranged.
“For example, in the case that we are asking for visa on arrival, the border police will check the history of the vessel and see if that vessel has stopped at Schengen ports and had the opportunity to arrange the visa.
"For a visa on arrival, we need proof that the vessel was scheduled to come into port at the last minute. So it’s really important that companies understand the rules for different countries and what they need to do.”
Grow Maritime urges the maritime industry to prepare for the new Corporate Sustainability Reporting Directive
The urgency in adopting sustainable practices is clear following the European Parliament’s approval of the new Corporate Sustainability Reporting Directive (CSRD) which comes into force in 2024, say ESG specialists - Grow Maritime.
Grow Maritime assists maritime organisations to improve their performance through the development and implementation of impactful ESG strategies ultimately creating added value both for the organisations that employ its services but also the planet and society at large.
All organisations (both public and private) with more than 250 employees and over €40 million turnover will need to comply with the CSRD and start reporting in accordance with the new European Sustainability Reporting Standards (ESRS) in 2025. Public entities with more than 500 employees who have been reporting under the NFRD (Non-Financial Reporting Directive) will need to abide by these new requirements a year earlier. These new regulations on corporate sustainability reporting are going to hit the sector hard as five times more businesses in Europe will need to comply, catching most of them unprepared in terms of internal know-how, processes and systems. As a result, Grow Maritime is urging the maritime sector to start preparing well in advance to ensure it doesn’t fall foul of CSRD legislation.
Grow Maritime’s Chairwoman Irene Loucaides said “The new CSRD is very forward looking as it will require companies to disclose their Sustainability goals as well as their progress against those goals every year. If no progress is reported and targets are not met, then that affects the company’s profitability as that would mean the company is not accountable, reliable or trustworthy, and surely investors, clients and other stakeholders won’t respond well to those attributes.”
Sustainability Reporting in accordance with International Standards and in line with the Poseidon Principles is one of the main services Grow Maritime specializes in.
Ms Loucaides warns: “Businesses need to be very careful what they commit to. Setting realistic targets is much more prudent than being too optimistic and having to face the consequences of being unsuccessful in achieving your goals. If your organisation has been collecting this type of non-financial information for several years, it is in a favourable position, as it can track a pattern of its performance and set goals that are more achievable.”
UK Shipping Concierge announced as major sponsor of LISW23
The organisers of London International Shipping Week (LISW) are delighted to welcome UK Shipping Concierge as a major sponsor of LISW23.
The agreement, which will see LISW23 being branded as ‘Being brought to you by UK Shipping Concierge’, underlines the UK Government’s commitment to supporting what is one of the world’s premier maritime weeks.
The UK Shipping Concierge is a division of the UK Government’s Maritime and Coastguard Agency (MCA) and was created in September 2021, in response to industry feedback, to serve maritime customers in the UK and those internationally who intend to bring their business or additional operations to the UK. The team do this by offering fast and easy solutions to the maritime sector, by connecting businesses with HM Government; offering strategic data and market insights as well as valuable connection to potential opportunities with businesses and investors, all through a single point of contact across Government.
Joanna Sawh, head of UK Shipping Concierge (pictured), said involvement with LISW23 was important because it will allow engagement with key industry stakeholders; those who are here in the UK as well as those who have a footprint in the UK but might be based in other parts of the world.
“We launched in September 2021, with the ambition of being a one-stop-shop for the maritime industry. We see ourselves as a connecting point for the maritime industry and UK Government so if any maritime companies have an inquiry about the set-up here in the UK, or the policies in place, they can reach out to the team which can then sign post them to relevant parts of the government,” she said.
“Another very important aspect of our work is for the UK Government to understand the blockers or barriers preventing companies coming to the UK. We want to speak to industry so we can be aware of those barriers so we can influence future policy,” she added.
Graham Candy, Commercial and Policy Manager at UK Shipping Concierge, provides a supporting role for the industry Financial Products Working Group. This is an important vehicle which the UK Shipping Concierge designed along with industry, to develop financial instruments that can benefit shipping as well as improve key industry demands.
He said: “We set up the Financial Products working group to come up with financial ideas that do not involve the government having to put direct funds on the table. It was about developing investment schemes which the government could support and attract in the right investment from financial quarters.”
The main aims of the UK Shipping Concierge are to:
• Promote the UK maritime offer from a government perspective, continually highlighting the benefits of trading in the UK
• Provide the UK maritime sector with a government centre of expertise, continuously monitoring international competition and recommending adjustments to the UK’s offer
• Provide strategic account relationships with government department experts, ship owners, operators, managers, and maritime sub-sector leaders
• Identify barriers to entry to the UK, influencing policy leads, as appropriate, to build better policy informed by commercial, social, and environmental needs
• Help propel UK maritime prosperity to create jobs and increase the maritime sector
• Facilitate an accessible link between maritime industry and government
The last year has seen many different avenues of support provided by the Concierge to both industry and government with approximately 60 active queries from maritime organisations, 150 dynamic lines of investment enquiry, and engagement has ranged from innovative R&D projects to companies with £2bn+ turnover.
In addition to the unique lines of enquiry, UK Shipping Concierge has strengthened strategic partnerships with colleagues across Government including HM Treasury, HMRC, DfT, DIT, and the Home Office to name a few.
Sean Moloney, co-owner and co-founder of LISW, said the massive international focus of LISW and LISW23 in particular, would provide the perfect platform for the UK Shipping Concierge to showcase the services it has to offer. “Having an organisation that is able to bridge that gap between the demands of the industry and the policy requirements of HM Government is essential and UK Shipping Concierge will build on their hard work over the past year to use LISW23 to focus the spotlight on the multitude of business opportunities available in London and the UK.”
LISW23 will be held in the week of September 11-15, 2023 and will play host to the maritime world with hundreds of events attracting thousands of international industry decision makers into London during the week. The headline LISW23 Conference will be held on Wednesday September 13th while the LISW23 Gala Dinner will be held on Thursday September 14th.
For further information visit the website: www.londoninternationalshippingweek.com
Ends
ioCurrents appoints William Roberts as CEO
ioCurrents, Inc., a leading predictive analytics platform to the maritime industry, today announced the appointment of Will Roberts as President and Chief Executive Officer. He will immediately assume day-to-day leadership of the company and will also join ioCurrents Board of Directors.
Roberts most recently served as President, Foss Maritime Company, where he led all sales, operations and administrative functions for this global marine transportation and logistics concern. Roberts will leverage his experience to guide ioCurrents through its next phase of growth by redefining go-to-market strategies, launching strategic new products, and building a world-class team to scale the company as it continues its mission to simplify data for better real-time decision making, both at sea and on shore. Jesse Brink will transition from the role of CEO, returning to his former Chief Revenue Officer position.
Roberts’ background also includes twelve years in executive positions at Rolls-Royce Marine, his last assignment being SVP, Commercial Marine – Americas. He also held roles of increasing responsibility in engineering and project management earlier in his career and served as an Associate Professor of Naval Sciences at several leading universities. Roberts is a graduate of the United States Naval Academy and was a nuclear trained officer onboard the fast attack submarine USS Honolulu (SSN 718).
“The Board and I are confident that Will is the right person to take the reins and build on the momentum realized to date,” said John Polchin, Chairman of ioCurrents Board of Directors. “He is a proven and motivational leader with immense maritime experience who will drive both growth and innovation. He is the ideal CEO for ioCurrents.”
In addition to the hiring of Roberts, the company also announced today that it has secured additional financing in support of its 3-year strategic business plan objectives – proceeds to be focused on talent acquisition, an increased global footprint, and decarbonization initiatives. The financing was led by Imagen Capital Partners, LP. Terms were not disclosed.
“I am honored to take on the CEO role, and eager to advance the core strategies created by the ioCurrents team. I look forward to leading our company through its next chapter and helping customers leverage the ioCurrents AI platform to power efficiencies across fuel, maintenance, and voyages, while also maximizing environmental benefits. As the maritime industry moves toward a greener future, our technology is already there to support those initiatives,” said Roberts.
ioCurrents has emerged as the market leader in the development and deployment of real-time, predictive analytics to the maritime industry through its MarineInsight™ platform. With a global focus, the company’s technology actively supports international shipping concerns, U.S. tug operators and the OSV market, with extensions into fishing, cruise & passenger, governmental and other industrial asset settings.
ENDS
AAL transports 20,000frt of iron ore reclaimer components on single liner sailing
AAL's scheduled monthly ‘Asia to Australia West Coast Liner Service’ (AUWC) recently provided the perfect solution for global project logistics provider NMT and its client, industrial engineering giant Thyssenkrupp Industrial Solutions.
The operation involved the transport of 20,000 freight tonnes of fabricated breakbulk reclaimer components from Henderson to Port Hedland in Western Australia – infrastructure that will uplift the port capacity of an iron ore mining facility in Nelson Point.
The lift, stowage, and transport of these units – the largest of which was the bucketwheel boom at just under 65 metres long – was undertaken by the crew of the AAL Nanjing, working in close cooperation with AAL’s transport engineers who had been planning the operation since the start of the year.
AAL’s Head of Transport Engineering, Nicola Pacifico, explained: “Due to the large and unconventional size of the reclaimer components, which covered a total area on the vessel of more than 1,800 square metres, the lifting and stowage challenges were significant.
“The seven-month design and planning period for the operation involved AAL working alongside NMT and Thyssenkrupp Industrial Solutions’ project management team, engaged in weekly online meetings from early February.
“The collaboration proved successful, and the cargo was safely discharged in Port Hedland on schedule for onward transport to Nelson Point, where it will be used in the handling of iron ore.”
Jayme Bailey, Senior Project Manager at NMT Global Project Logistics, stated: “Our collaborative, team-oriented and hands-on approach proved a winning recipe for all stakeholders on this important project.
“Buy-in from our trusted service providers and a shared willingness to go the extra mile ensured the project was executed without issue, on-time and more importantly, on budget.”
Frank Mueller, General Manager of AAL Australia, concluded: “We are delighted to continue our strong track record for NMT and Thyssenkrupp Industrial Solutions, both of whom we are proud to have worked with in the past on domestic industrial projects across Australia.
“The local multipurpose shipping market is still challengig since COVID, with port disruptions and labour issues affecting schedules and normal operations.
“The Australian project sector itself has also experienced upheaval and will continue to weather difficult external conditions until a possible peak of investment of A$95 billion per annum in planned infrastructure between 2023-24 and 2025-26.
“We will therefore continue to ensure our services within the sector remain consistent and keep delivering for our customers despite any and all market challenges.”
DNV’s Ørbeck-Nilssen on the need for partnership to speed decarbonisation
Knut Ørbeck-Nilssen, CEO Maritime, DNV, says that while progress towards industry decarbonisation should be applauded, it must be accelerated. Shipping needs to work together, in tandem with other sectors and stakeholders, if we’re to stand a hope of reaching our most ambitious, and necessary, goals. Nor-Shipping, he believes, with its 2023 theme of #PartnerShip, is an ideal platform for progress.
In today’s uncertain times “big decisions can’t be taken alone,” he says. “Everybody needs partners; no one can prosper, or change, in isolation, and that’s especially true when we consider an energy and technology transition of the scale facing shipping. We need one another to navigate the future, now more than ever.”
Partnership is a cornerstone of his, and DNV’s, vision. Ørbeck-Nilssen has been quoted over the past year or two as noting that “collaboration is the true fuel of the future” and 2022, with its unpredictable geopolitical, economic and environmental challenges, seems only to have deepened that conviction.
He talks of “significant barriers” that have to be overcome together, but before addressing the future wants to dwell on the present – recognising achievements so far.
“It’s encouraging to see that some of the key issues highlighted in past editions of our Maritime Forecasts and Reports have been picked up by the industry,” he comments, referring back to previous statements identifying LNG as arguably shipping’s “most feasible transitional fuel”.
“If we look at newbuild ordering there’s now an established trend for alternative dual-fuel propulsion, with LNG as the dominant fuel, especially amongst the larger, deep-sea segments. A third of the vessels on the orderbooks, by gross tonnage, are being built to operate on alternative fuels, with LPG and the first hydrogen-fuelled designs also generating interest. So, we can see concrete proof that the transition is gathering pace, with regulatory pressure, access to investment and capital, and cargo owner and consumer demands as the key drivers.
However, Ørbeck-Nilssen says that “substantial investment” is needed – “and quickly” – in terms of researching safe and economically feasible carbon neutral fuels, as well as developing the optimal technologies to utilise them. And that will be in vain, he stresses, if the main hurdle to progress can’t be overcome, namely fuel availability.
“According to our recent Maritime Forecast to 2050 report, we need to produce 5% of shipping’s total energy consumption from carbon-neutral fuels by 2030,” he says. “That requires huge investment… and it’s just the start.
“And if the IMO strategy is revised in 2023, pushing for full decarbonization by 2050, then we require the means and infrastructure to deliver around 270 million tonnes of alternative fuels, according to our research. That is a massive challenge, and it requires action, now.”
He continues: “It goes without saying, this is an issue that shipping cannot resolve alone. We need to see collaboration in the industry, for sure, but beyond that we have to work in unison with energy producers, infrastructure developers, ports, and, not least, national and international authorities and organisations to enable such fundamental change. This goes beyond working within our ‘tribes’ – it’s a global issue of critical importance.”
But which route to take - should a shipowner today invest in assets running on natural gas for tomorrow, or will it pay to be an early mover on hydrogen, ammonia or any other emerging alternative?
This, says Ørbeck-Nilssen , is where DNVs ‘pathways’ - as featured in the latest Maritime Forecast to 2050 – come in. These detail likely scenarios on the journey towards decarbonisation, considering factors such as fuel availability, costs and the apparent lack of one ‘silver bullet’ solution.
As an example, he picks an owner opting for LNG today. “Now, they know this isn’t a perfect fuel but it enables substantial gains over conventional heavy fuel, utilising proven technology. So, on the ‘gas pathway’ they use LNG as the first step, before switching to bio-gas and then later transitioning to synthetic gas. That’s an over-simplified example, but it shows how you create clarity as you move ahead with business strategy and investments.”
A further example of that, and of DNV’s role as a key enabler for an industry in transition, is the recently unveiled Nordic Roadmap initiative. This follows on the back of the Clydebank Declaration at COP26, where shipping “green corridors” were identified as a key tool for accelerating change.
In a bid to position the region at the vanguard of developments, the Nordic Council of Ministers, with support from all the Nordic nations, set up the project as a “cooperation platform” creating unity of purpose. The result is a joint public and private initiative aiming to bring together diverse stakeholders to enable green corridor infrastructure, start pilots, share knowledge, build alternative fuel experience and, Ørbeck-Nilssen says, “set an example for other regions to follow.”
DNV has been brought in as project manager, recently hosting the first meeting at the company’s Høvik HQ in Oslo.
“When you look at the industry in its entirety, the scale and complexity of change needed can seem overwhelming,” he notes. “But if you take separate regions, and look at establishing individual green corridors, it makes the challenge more manageable. Then, when you bring together diverse partners, it’s suddenly possible to work towards concrete, achievable goals – goals that can form a blueprint for the industry in general.
“It’s a really exciting example of partnership in action,” he concludes, reminding that the 2023 edition of Nor-Shipping,
taking place in Oslo and Lillestrøm, 6-9 June, has chosen #PartnerShip as its main theme.
Campbell Shipping renews Fleet Xpress contract, adds Fleet Care and Fleet Secure Endpoint
Bahamas-based ship-management group Campbell Shipping has extended its relationship with Inmarsat, a world leader in global, mobile satellite communications, with an agreement that adds Fleet Care and Fleet Secure Endpoint to its existing 12-vessel Fleet Xpress solution. Campbell Shipping will now be able to carry out remote maintenance, support and repairs, and comprehensive network protection, on top of fast, reliable and extensive global coverage already provided by Fleet Xpress.
These industry-leading performance characteristics were key to Campbell’s decision to migrate its fleet of dry-bulk carriers to Fleet Xpress from Fleet Broadband in 2018. With vessels often sailing in areas of the Southern Hemisphere, the Fleet Xpress combination of highspeed Ka-band plus continuous L-band back-up delivers the bandwidth and stability to keep business operations online 24/7 and allows crew to remain in contact with friends and family on shore.
Michael Dean, IT Vessel Manager, Campbell Shipping, said: “We opted to renew our contract with Inmarsat based on its extensive coverage and our positive experience working with the company so far. Ever since the upgrade to Fleet Xpress, our ships have been better connected, with crew enjoying more stable access to communication and entertainment services on board. Now, thanks to Inmarsat’s value-added applications, we can also rest assured that vessel equipment and networks are in safe hands.”
By enabling round-the-clock remote support from Inmarsat engineers, Fleet Care will prove especially valuable when Campbell’s vessels are operating in isolated stretches of ocean where physical access by service technicians would be difficult. As well as helping keep critical communication systems in working order and thereby promoting safer, more efficient operations, the fully managed maintenance programme provides cost transparency, with a fixed monthly fee replacing more costly annual services.
Meanwhile, amid growing concerns over maritime cyber-attacks and malware, Fleet Secure Endpoint will provide Campbell with continuous protection of all online endpoints on the vessel network, automatically monitoring, identifying and blocking threats as they arise.
Logan Murray, Sales Manager, Inmarsat Maritime, said: “Campbell Shipping has shown itself to be a forward-thinking ship manager that understands the importance of reliable connectivity – both for business operations and crew welfare. We are delighted to renew our long-standing relationship with the company and look forward to helping it reap the additional rewards of remote maintenance and robust cyber security.”
Ronald Spithout joins CyberOwl’s board as strategic advisor
Maritime and offshore system cyber risk management specialist CyberOwl has appointed Ronald Spithout as a strategic advisor to the Board. Spithout (pictured), a renowned influential figure in the maritime industry, joins CyberOwl in its next phase of growth. The business intends to scale up customer and market reach, strengthen its service model, and enhance its product and technology offering.
Currently CEO at MariDISC, Mr Spithout was previously Maritime President at Immarsat with global responsibility for growth, strategic direction and partnerships.
Daniel Ng, CyberOwl’s CEO commented: “At this pivotal stage of CyberOwl’s growth trajectory, I am delighted to welcome Ronald Spithout to our board. We are serious in our mission to raise the tide of cyber risk management for the whole sector across the globe. This is where Ronald’s years of experience, and passion for maritime digitalisation can add significant value towards furthering our mission. ”
This new addition to the board marks CyberOwl’s accelerated expansion across the UK, EMEA and Asia Pacific, which has been strengthened by its recent round of funding. The company is currently expanding strategic alliances with local partners around the world, as well as building on the breadth and depth of its service capability.
The company has experienced significant growth since launching Medulla, a maritime cybersecurity monitoring and analytics solution for shipping systems, in 2019. Medulla supports maritime companies in managing the cyber risk of shipboard systems. It is currently utilised on approximately 2,000 vessels. As at the end of 2022, the growth rate was approximately 5x for deployed vessels, and approximately 3x in orders booked.
Ronald Spithout, said: "Driving sustainability through digitalisation at sea and the provision of consistent internet access for crew, have been close to my heart for years. Both of these maritime priorities can only be safely accomplished through robust cyber risk management. But this is often still a struggle for shipping companies lacking specialist technology, resources and talent. CyberOwl has the unique potential to be a true market leader and I’m excited to help the team fulfil this potential."
ITIC covers ship agent’s US$ 94,000 cancellation fee for mistaken Panama Canal booking
Professional indemnity insurer the International Transport Intermediaries Club (ITIC) has reimbursed a ship agent US$ 94,000 after their request to cancel a slot they had booked by mistake for a transit through the Panama Canal was denied.
The ship agent was asked by their principal to enquire whether there was space to transit through the Panama Canal on a specific date.
However, the agent misunderstood the request to check if a slot would be available and instead booked the slot.
Ultimately, the principal did not require the slot at all but when the agent tried to void the booking, the canal authority denied their request.
They therefore had to cancel the booking which led to cancellation fees of US$ 94,000 being charged.
A mitigation request to the authority was denied. The principal sought recovery of these charges from the agent. The agent had no defence and the claim was settled in full.
Freeport East receives final Government approval
Freeport East received final Government approvals yesterday, allowing it to move forward into the delivery phase. The development of the Freeport, which is expected to create up to 13,500 new jobs, will be boosted by £25 million in Government funding to support infrastructure enhancement.
Welcoming the news, Steve Beel, Chief Executive of Freeport East, said: “This is a major milestone for Freeport East and the result of a great deal of hard work from all our partner organisations. Freeport East is a locally led initiative but has global connections and ambition.
“Bringing together key stakeholders including local government, the private sector, and educational institutions we will attract new investment to create a hotbed for trade, innovation and green energy driving growth in both the regional and national economies.
“We will look to partner and collaborate with all organisations interested in the economic success of the region and encourage parties to get in touch with us directly.”
Levelling Up Minister Dehenna Davison said: “Today is a historic day for many port towns and coastal communities across East Anglia, as Freeport East takes flight. “This Freeport is going to give local economies a massive boost, unlock a new state of the art business space and create tens of thousands of highly skilled jobs.
“We are maximising the opportunities of leaving the European Union to drive growth and throw our doors open to trade with the world.”
Freeport East covers an area within roughly 45 kilometres of the ports of Felixstowe and Harwich, stretching from Woodbridge in the north, to Stowmarket in the west and Jaywick Sands in the south. Colchester and Ipswich are both key parts of the Freeport economic area.
The Freeport has three main development sites at the Port of Felixstowe, Harwich International Port and Gateway 14 near Stowmarket. Freeport East will be able to collect and deploy 100% of the business rates growth generated on these sites for the next 25 years, providing millions of pounds of financial backing to invest in regeneration, skills and innovation across the local area.
Work has already commenced on the Gateway 14 development and there are ambitious plans to create a green energy hub in Harwich to serve sectors including offshore wind.
All the developments have an emphasis on supporting innovation, skills development and net zero as well as acting as anchors for wider economic impact.
The Universities of Essex and Suffolk as well as a range of other partners in the region have committed to working with Freeport East and its businesses to accelerate innovation across operations, products and services. They will also help unlock further investment in research and development to boost development of the area’s knowledge-based economy.
Signal Ocean looks at the outlook for dry bulk freight fundamentals
In its just-published Dry Bulk Annual Review 2022, Signal Ocean says the year ended with critical changes in grain flows due to geopolitical tensions between Russia and Ukraine. In parallel, the Chinese real estate crisis seriously impacted Capesize vessels, while the energy crisis drove up coal flows and Panamax freight rates.
Amid the macroeconomic and geopolitical challenges, Signal notes that the volume of bulk cargo flows has remained stable over the past two years. Cargo flow volumes were helped by the Black Sea Grain Corridor Initiatiove in the third quarter, but freight rates in the Supramax and Handysize segments remained weaker.
A serious concern for bulk demand growth in the coming year is Chinese economic growth, as 2022 ended with GDP growth of at least 4.4%, but well above economists' expectations. Economists had generally expected growth to fall to a rate between 2.7% and 3.3% in 2022. The Chinese government had maintained a much higher annual growth target of around 5.5%.
As regards freight rates, overall 2022 was a year of strong growth for the larger vessel categories, Signal says, although rates for Capesize vessels grew at a slower pace after the exceptionally high levels of 2021. Although the freight market for the larger vessel categories was above 2020 levels, rates for the Supramax and Handysize vessel classes were very weak, while the Panamax segment appears to be the winner in 2022. In the last days of the year ending, Panamax freight rates showed a strong performance and Asian coal demand paved the way for stronger demand and higher freight rates in the upcoming first quarter of the New Year.
Re vessel speeds, Signal says the Russia-Ukraine geopolitical crisis prompted shipowners to reduce the ballast speed of ships at sea, and 2022 ended with a record low ballast speed for bulk carriers. It is estimated that last year's levels are the lowest compared to 2021 and 2020, as the larger vessel categories continue to have lower ballast speeds at sea. The fourth quarter suggests a similar slowdown in ballast speeds as freight rates enter a downward cycle at the start of the new year.
Dunkerque 2022 traffic figures boosted by growth in LNG and containers
Port of Dunkerque (aka Dunkirk) presented mixed traffic results for 2022 at a press conference held yesterday, with throughput up slightly by 1.5% year-on-year to 49m tonnes.
Results were broadly similar to 2021 and still short of pre-pandemic levels, port officials admitted, with the effect of Brexit still continuing to depress cross-Channel RoRo traffic which was down 13% to 11.9m tonnes.
Dry bulk traffic, traditionally another staple of the port, was also down 18% to 16.2m tonnes, mainly due to the cessation of Seabulk activities at the port’s West Bulk Commodity Terminal at end-2021 and reduced iron ore imports on account of the depressed state of France’s steel industry.
At the same time, however, container volumes were up 14% to a record 745,000 TEU, with Dunkerque having enjoyed 10 years of consecutive growth and now having the largest transhipment share of any French port. The Dunkerque Inernational Logistics Zone (DLI) was also inaugurated by the French Transport Minister in November 2022.
Also, reduced oil imports last year on account of the geopolitical crisis involving Russia were more than offset by ‘explosive growth’ in LNG imports, which were up 133% y-o-y - and 220% in H2 alone - to 9.7m tonnes, with the port’s LNG terminals now nearing their capacity.
All in all, Dunkerque officials drew encouragement from the fact that the port is transitioning well to becoming a truly multipurpose port with a healthy diversity of different types of cargo and bright future.
SSY opens new office in Korea
Simpson Spence Young (SSY), the world’s largest independent shipbroker, has today announced the opening of their new office in Seoul, Korea.
Headed up by newly appointed partner Toby English and Regional Director Jun Seo, the team will focus on Sale and Purchase in addition to exploring further potential growth areas for the business. The new presence in Seoul is the 8th in the APAC region for SSY, taking the total number of global SSY offices to 22.
Commenting on the new opening, Stanko Jekov, SSY Managing Partner said: “I’m excited to be opening our Seoul office which further expands our footprint in Asia and look forward to working with the very talented team to further promote SSY’s offering in the region."
Solstad becomes Marlink’s first offshore customer to enjoy Starlink high throughput connectivity
Smart network solutions company Marlink continues the roll-out of its new blend of hybrid network services, equipping Solstad Offshore vessels with Starlink connectivity integrated with the well-established highly reliable Sealink VSAT, L-band backup and 4G services.
Solstad Offshore is the first offshore vessel operator on the Marlink network to trial Starlink testing the network in harsh weather conditions. In September 2022, the company completed the migration of its fleet connectivity to Marlink, including Sealink VSAT and 4G connectivity and is now evaluating if this should be further extended with Starlink integration.
The company will use the connectivity to deliver enhanced communications for seafarers, with high speed, low latency connectivity, designed to provide an unparalleled Maximum Information Rate (MIR) performance in combination with a reliable Committed Information Rate (CIR) over VSAT, guaranteeing business critical connectivity.
Marlink’s integration of existing and emerging networks into one seamless end-to-end managed hybrid network provided to Solstad will improve user experience, application performance, reliability, scalability and security. Solstad will also benefit from advanced network management tools, including SD-WAN application-based routing, to optimise reliability of business critical communications and enable a higher quality user experience.
“We are delighted to be supporting the adoption of next-generation networks in the maritime offshore market through this agreement with Solstad Offshore, which is the first of its kind on the Marlink network in this sector,” said Tore Morten Olsen, President, Maritime, Marlink. “The integration of new LEO capabilities with our well-established Sealink VSAT service represents a new frontier of performance for maritime customers, like Solstad, that will experience unparalleled connectivity that improve business operations and crew welfare.”
“Solstad Offshore is committed to innovation and quality in all our operations and we consider connectivity to be an important driver of value for our customers, crews and our people ashore,” said Christian Nesheim, ICT Director, Solstad Offshore. “We are happy to further deepen our relationship with Marlink and have the opportunity to pilot the Starlink connectivity solutions together. Testing done on vessels in the North Sea region will give us valuable experience on the roughness and stability of the solution during the tough winter months. Following the Starlink trial we will evaluate if this should be incorporated as a supplement in the Solstad Offshore fleet, as an integrated part of our existing connectivity solutions by Marlink.”
Shipping companies pilot Orbit Weather+ digital Vessel Performance Management system using DTN APis
Shipping companies are piloting an innovative cloud-based solution for weather-optimized voyage routing launched by OrbitMI that allows routes to be plotted automatically based on cost, time and fuel consumption as new CII regulations raise the pressure to cut CO2 emissions.
The Orbit Weather+ digital solution, powered by DTN® marine weather APIs, is now being implemented fleet-wide by Stena Bulk, with multiple pilots ongoing at other companies, according to US-based vessel performance management (VPM) software company OrbitMI. It has already been used to route tankers and dry bulk vessels hundreds of times since its launch last summer.
The automated solution can find the smartest, safest and most fuel-efficient route by using AI-based machine learning to analyse constantly updated weather data fed into the Orbit VPM system through DTN APIs (Application Programming interfaces).
This makes it possible for vessel operators to generate unlimited ‘what if’ scenarios based on a range of business parameters - including bunker usage and cost, ETA, CO2 emissions, CII rating and possible hazards - to determine the optimal route, marking a transformational shift from the traditional method of weather routing.
Implementation of Orbit Weather+ in the shipping industry coincides with the enforcement from 1 January this year of the IMO’s Carbon Intensity Indicator (CII) whereby vessels over 5000 tonnes will be rated from A to E based on their emissions relative to cargo carrying capacity and distance travelled, with a requirement for progressive improvements in energy efficiency towards 2030.
A vessel’s CII rating, as well as its EEXI (Energy Efficiency Existing Ship Index) score that also comes into play this year, will become key commercial criteria for cargo owners and charterers in business decision-making amid an increasing focus on the sustainability of the overall supply chain.
“Digital transformation is being driven by external pressures such as CII and EEXI regulations, as well as the advancement of the EU’s Emissions Trading System and carbon pricing, which will force charterers, ship owners and operators to adopt new solutions,” said OrbitMI’s chief marketing officer David Levy (pictured).
Weather-optimized routing is one of the digital tools available to achieve operational efficiencies to reduce fuel consumption from the existing fleet that will be necessary to meet the IMO target to reduce the carbon intensity of shipping by 40% within 2030, according to Levy.
At a recent online demonstration of Orbit Weather+, DTN vice president global weather intelligence Renny Vandewege said: “Timely weather data continues to be a key factor, when combined with other maritime data parameters, as part of the analytics required by global shipping professionals to operate efficiently, reduce fuel burn and CO2 emissions, and keep crews and cargo safe.”
He highlighted the weather impacts of climate change such as rising sea levels, increasing wave heights, rougher sea conditions and a growing incidence of tropical storms that can cause voyage delays, which lead to less operational efficiency and higher emissions, as well as pose greater risks to people, assets and cargoes.
DTN strategic product manager Jarco van der Brink commented that by harnessing multiple DTN APIs into a dynamic dashboard, Orbit Weather+ is able to offer integrated access to the insights needed for better vessel-based decision making. Orbit Weather+ can surface insights to guide operational efficiency, environmental impact, safety and myriad other use cases such as improved CII rating, reduced fuel consumption and avoiding container loss.
The plug-and-play solution, which requires no software or hardware installation, is always working in the background by continually updating and analysing weather data to generate optimized routes based on current conditions in a matter of minutes.
This is in contrast to the traditional method of weather routing that typically entails time-consuming emails back and forth with a shore-based consultant and route updates only on a daily basis.
However, OrbitMI’s vice president engineering Slavisa Djokic emphasised the system does not replace a shore-based weather consultant and the vessel captain remains the final decision-maker on which route to follow. “Rather, this is creating transparency for charterers and vessel operators in the weather-routing workflow by giving them more optionality and capabilities in voyage decision-making,” he explained.
Orbit Weather+ allows an unlimited number of alternative routes to be generated at no extra cost due to a per-active-vessel pricing model, greatly reducing the cost per route versus the traditional method that entails additional fees for new route requests.
This means it can be applied to any number of routes for voyages of any distance across an entire fleet, rather than only long-haul routes due to cost constraints with traditional routing, to realise additional substantial cost savings with fuel reductions on short-haul routes.
Consequently, operators that have implemented the solution have seen as much as a thirtyfold return on investment, according to Levy, who said future releases of the software will result in further optimizations for earnings, CII and other parameters.
Elcome brings Starlink high-speed, low-latency internet to the global maritime industries
Elcome International, a leading provider of maritime systems and integration solutions, is providing SpaceX’s Starlink internet services to its global maritime and mobility customers. From merchant vessels to oil rigs to luxury yachts, Starlink enables maritime customers to connect from the most remote waters across the world, just like they would in the office or at home.
For more than 50 years, Elcome has been providing its maritime customers with communications solutions based on both terrestrial and satellite technology. Starlink is one of the most significant advancements in communications for the maritime industry in decades.
Powered by the world’s largest constellation of satellites in low Earth orbit, Starlink’s high-speed, low-latency broadband Internet service for all types of maritime and offshore assets is a revolution in performance and cost. With speeds up to 100 times faster and at a fraction of the cost of traditional satellite internet services, Elcome will equip its customers with cutting-edge technology-led solutions that leverage the unique capabilities of Starlink.
“We are so excited to bring the benefits of Starlink to our customers,” said Jimmy Grewal, Elcome’s Executive Director. “It’s not just about fast Internet, but the opportunity for us to implement real-time remote monitoring and autonomy solutions for these customers in ways that were not previously possible. Also consider the benefit to crew members who will now be able to better stay in touch with family and friends while out at sea.”
The company will also provide installation, integration, and field support to customers using Starlink. Elcome has already implemented multi-antenna Starlink arrays delivering hundreds of megabits of low-latency bandwidth on two superyachts catering to more than 100 crew and guests simultaneously.
Those interested in learning more about Starlink mobility solutions can visit Elcome’s website where they can place orders for delivery to numerous countries around the world. Orders will be fulfilled from the company’s logistics hubs in Spain, Dubai, and Singapore with a variety of installation and support options available. The company also provides a comprehensive web portal for customers to manage their Starlink subscriptions, including month-to-month billing with no contractual commitments and the option to pause the service.
Silverstream Technologies to equip four large LNG carriers
Silverstream Technologies announces it has signed a deal with China Merchants Energy Shipping (CMES) to install its market-leading air lubrication technology, the Silverstream® System, on four 175,000cbm LNG carriers being built at Dalian Shipbuilding Industry Company (DSIC).
The agreement for four firm installations and two options will see Silverstream’s proven technology fitted onto the very first Chinese-owned, Chinese-built LNGCs in the global fleet.
The installations will take place over the next two years, with work expected to be completed by the end of 2024, in line with DSIC’s building schedule.
The order further underpins Silverstream’s strong track record in the large LNGC segment, bringing the company’s total number of contracted LNGCs to 23 vessels, eight of which are already in-service. It also follows another recent deal with Abu Dhabi National Oil Company (ADNOC) to install the Silverstream®System on six of the first LNGCs built at China’s Jiangnan shipyard.
The new 175cbm LNGCs being built at DSIC are each jointly classed between China Classification Society and Lloyd’s Register, American Bureau of Shipping, DNV and Bureau Veritas respectively.
The Silverstream® System will cut the vessels’ fuel consumption and emissions by 5-10% net and is effective in all sea conditions. It will co-exist onboard with a number of other technological innovations including a Mark III membrane cargo containment system and an LNG dual-fuel propulsion chain.
Speaking on the announcement, Noah Silberschmidt, Founder & CEO, Silverstream Technologies, said: “We are delighted to announce this new deal with China Merchants Energy Shipping that will see our technology installed on the very first Chinese-owned, Chinese-built LNGCs in the world. It comes thanks to our proven track record of cutting emissions and fuel consumption in one of the shipping industry’s most important operating sectors.
“The agreement strengthens our cooperation with CMES in LNG ship investment and builds on our already strong relationship with Dalian Shipbuilding Industry Company. We look forward to working on these vessels and deepening the ties between Silverstream’s Shanghai presence and the region’s most important maritime players over the next two years.”
The installation of Silverstream’s technology on the new LNGCs comes as part of CMES’s strategy to substantially reduce greenhouse gas emissions from its operations in the near term. Alongside installing the Silverstream® System to cut fuel consumption and CO2, CMES is also sharing voyage and ship data with BHP and DNV to help slash the environmental impact of its fleet.
Frontline calls off plan to create tanker giant by merger with Euronav
Frontline plc has announced that it no longer wishes to pursue its proposed tie-up with fellow tanker operator Euronav and has terminated the combination agreement the two companies entered into six months ago.
This follows the announcement in December by Euronav shareholder CMB, controlled by the Saverys family, that it had succeeded in increasing its stake to the 25% needed to block any full merger between the two companies, despite the Euronav board’s desire to proceed.
As a result, Frontline says it will now not make a voluntary conditional exchange offer for all outstanding Euronav shares and no longer seek a listing on Euronext Brussels.
Mr Lars H. Barstad, CEO of Frontline said: “We regret that we could not complete the merger as envisaged in July 2022, as that would have created the by far largest publicly listed tanker company.
‘At the same time, both companies have independently very large fleets of crude oil and product tankers and are already enjoying economies of scale as evidenced by our respective recent financial reports.
“Frontline will with its efficient operations continue to capture value as this cycle unfolds and [will] remain focused on maximizing dividend capacity per share.”
ABS Launches Custom Rule Book in classification ‘first’
ABS has launched Custom Rule Book, a powerful new tool which allows users to create tailored ABS rule sets in moments, saving significant time.
In the first development of its kind in classification, ABS MyFreedomTM users can now quickly filter 140 rules and guides, 28,000 pages and 600 notations to generate a Custom Rule Book for their specific vessel or project. By simply inputting a vessel’s ABS class number or selecting six attributes, a custom collection of rules applicable to the vessel or project will be instantly created.
The service is available to all users who are signed up on the ABS MyFreedomTMclient portal.
“ABS is committed to offering the most advanced class services to support our clients’ operations, and the Custom Rule Book is the latest example of this. We are using technology to simplify and speed access to key information that will increase efficiency and make ABS even easier to work with,” said Dan Cronin, ABS Vice President, Class Standards.
“The ABS Custom Rule Book helps shipyards streamline the regulatory process by forming a single document which captures the unique ABS Rules and optional notations applicable to each individual vessel,” said Rene J. Leonard, Conrad Shipyard Vice President for Engineering and Program Management. “The benefits to the ABS Custom Rule Book are clear, concise, and tracible requirements that correlate explicitly to the project stakeholder’s needs on design and survey,”
Port of Antwerp-Bruges stable in 2022
2022 was a year of challenges for Port of Antwerp-Bruges. Geopolitical tensions, the energy crisis and ongoing disruptions in supply chains made their presence felt and, in addition to shifts within the various commodity flows, put sustained pressure on the container segment. This affected throughput, which was down 0.7% year-on-year to 286.9 million tons of cargo. However, the flood of new investments and projects confirms the attractiveness of the unified port and the added value of the complementarity of the two port platforms.
The challenges were most palpable in container traffic. Global disruptions within container shipping, and the resulting congestion with peak call sizes and delays, put pressure on volumes throughout the year. In addition, the conflict in Ukraine caused a decrease in Russia-related traffic by 59%. And while operational challenges at container terminals and congestion have been slowly easing since the third quarter, high energy prices and economic uncertainty have caused a slowdown in demand for container traffic. As a result, container throughput fell 8.6% in tons and 5.2% in TEUs in 2022, compared with a strong 2021, back to pre-pandemic levels.
The war in Ukraine, the sanctions against Russia and the energy crisis greatly changed the energy landscape and flows in Europe, which translated into strong growth in bulk cargo. Dry bulk throughput increased by 13.8% in 2022. Coal throughput, in particular, experienced a sharp increase (+210%) due to the substantial rise in demand for coal powered generation. Fertilisers, however, declined by 18.3% due in part to sanctions on Russia and significantly higher fertiliser prices.
The liquid bulk segment grew 10%, mainly due to a 61.3% increase in demand for LNG as an alternative to natural gas via pipelines from Russia. There was also growth for LPG (+30%), gasoline (+7%), diesel/fuel oil (+9.9%) and naphtha (+7.5%). Chemicals throughput, which had its best year ever in 2021, began to decline in mid-2022 due to increased energy prices that put pressure on the European chemicals sector; volumes ended up with a slight decrease of 1% compared to 2021.
After record figures in 2021, conventional breakbulk (+1.1%) held up well in the first half of the year due to growth in the throughput of steel, the main commodity group within this segment. Starting in the third quarter, steel volumes declined as a result of the slowing economy.
Total roll-on/roll-off traffic saw an increase of 6.5%. More than 3.26 million new cars were handled in 2022, an annualised growth of 10.5%. Throughput of 'high & heavy' rolling stock increased by 9.6%, while throughput of used cars and trucks decreased by 13.2% and 17% respectively. Unaccompanied cargo (excluding containers) grew 10.0%, a significant portion of which was related to the United Kingdom (+4.9%) and Ireland (+35%).
In 2022, Zeebrugge welcomed 144 cruise ships with 547,374 passenger movements, a firm increase compared to the 23 ships and 75,854 passenger movements from last year when cruise shipping was largely at a standstill due to COVID-19. Meanwhile, calls have already been booked up to 2026 and beyond.
Port of Antwerp-Bruges stable in 2022
2022 was a year of challenges for Port of Antwerp-Bruges. Geopolitical tensions, the energy crisis and ongoing disruptions in supply chains made their presence felt and, in addition to shifts within the various commodity flows, put sustained pressure on the container segment. This affected throughput, which was down 0.7% year-on-year to 286.9 million tons of cargo. However, the flood of new investments and projects confirms the attractiveness of the unified port and the added value of the complementarity of the two port platforms.
The challenges were most palpable in container traffic. Global disruptions within container shipping, and the resulting congestion with peak call sizes and delays, put pressure on volumes throughout the year. In addition, the conflict in Ukraine caused a decrease in Russia-related traffic by 59%. And while operational challenges at container terminals and congestion have been slowly easing since the third quarter, high energy prices and economic uncertainty have caused a slowdown in demand for container traffic. As a result, container throughput fell 8.6% in tons and 5.2% in TEUs in 2022, compared with a strong 2021, back to pre-pandemic levels.
The war in Ukraine, the sanctions against Russia and the energy crisis greatly changed the energy landscape and flows in Europe, which translated into strong growth in bulk cargo. Dry bulk throughput increased by 13.8% in 2022. Coal throughput, in particular, experienced a sharp increase (+210%) due to the substantial rise in demand for coal powered generation. Fertilisers, however, declined by 18.3% due in part to sanctions on Russia and significantly higher fertiliser prices.
The liquid bulk segment grew 10%, mainly due to a 61.3% increase in demand for LNG as an alternative to natural gas via pipelines from Russia. There was also growth for LPG (+30%), gasoline (+7%), diesel/fuel oil (+9.9%) and naphtha (+7.5%). Chemicals throughput, which had its best year ever in 2021, began to decline in mid-2022 due to increased energy prices that put pressure on the European chemicals sector; volumes ended up with a slight decrease of 1% compared to 2021.
After record figures in 2021, conventional breakbulk (+1.1%) held up well in the first half of the year due to growth in the throughput of steel, the main commodity group within this segment. Starting in the third quarter, steel volumes declined as a result of the slowing economy.
Total roll-on/roll-off traffic saw an increase of 6.5%. More than 3.26 million new cars were handled in 2022, an annualised growth of 10.5%. Throughput of 'high & heavy' rolling stock increased by 9.6%, while throughput of used cars and trucks decreased by 13.2% and 17% respectively. Unaccompanied cargo (excluding containers) grew 10.0%, a significant portion of which was related to the United Kingdom (+4.9%) and Ireland (+35%).
In 2022, Zeebrugge welcomed 144 cruise ships with 547,374 passenger movements, a firm increase compared to the 23 ships and 75,854 passenger movements from last year when cruise shipping was largely at a standstill due to COVID-19. Meanwhile, calls have already been booked up to 2026 and beyond.
Danica Crewing Specialists adds Indian seafarers to its international crew pool
International crewing expert Danica Crewing Specialists now has a presence in Mumbai, boosting its recruitment and crew supply operation with Indian seafarers.
Announcing the new office, Henrik Jensen (pictured), CEO of Danica Crewing Specialists, said: “India is one of the key providers of ships’ crew and boasts many excellent resources for all vessel types and ranks. We are delighted to now be able to add this huge resource of competent Indian seafarers to our significant international crew pool. The Indian office will expand our successful single-contact-point approach to ship owners and operators seeking crew for their fleets. We extend a warm welcome to our Indian office team and new crew recruits.”
Danica’s new operation in India is an alliance with Energios Maritime. The Mumbai office is run by a team of very experienced staff who will fit smoothly into Danica’s global supply network, operating to the same high standards and carrying out Danica’s well-established strict candidate screening and selection processes.
Vijay Rangroo, CEO and founder of Energios, said: “We share Danica’s vision and are pleased to be working with the Danica team to bring Indian seafarers to Danica’s clients through our in-depth knowledge of, and experience with, the Indian market”.
Sustainability in spotlight as RINA signs up as LISW23 Platinum Sponsor
Improving the quality of life and building sustainable values for future generations in shipping will be highlighted during this year’s London International Shipping Week by RINA, which has come onboard as a Platinum Sponsor to support the event in its 10th year.
RINA is a founding member of IACS (the International Association of Classification Societies) and operates on behalf of 122 flag authorities. In addition to the provision of classification and statutory certification RINA delivers value added services to the shipping industry and is rated among the top performing classification societies.
RINA’s technical competence, attention to quality, and focus on innovation are the pillars which enable the society to support shipping on its path to digital transformation and to achieve reductions in CO2. RINA works with designers to verify compliance with the applicable rules of dual-fuel vessels and of novel concept designs incorporating new fuels such as hydrogen or ammonia, allowing for an increase in efficiency and performance which equates to fewer emissions.
Paolo Moretti, CEO of RINA Services, said: “At RINA we engage in partnering with customers to develop solutions to complex problems, while leveraging our expertise to anticipate and address any challenges along the way. Being part of London International Shipping Week will give us the opportunity to communicate with a large international audience and to engage in high-level discussions about the future of shipping and sustainable growth.”
Sean Moloney, co-owner and co-founder of LISW, welcomed RINA as an event sponsor. “We are delighted to have RINA onboard and look forward to understanding more about the work it does to deliver solutions that improve the wellbeing of society and build sustainable values for future generations,” he said.
London International Shipping Week 2023 takes place from September 11th to 15th, 2023 and will host the global maritime community. Hundreds of events throughout the week will attract thousands of international decision-makers, from maritime sectors as well as the wider business community. Highlights include the headline LISW23 Conference, which will be held on Wednesday September 13th at the London Headquarters of the International Maritime Organization, and the 10th anniversary Gala Dinner at Evolution London, a truly special venue in London’s Battersea Park, on Thursday September 14th.
Claims management experts appoint new Director of Claims and Legal Services
Thomas Miller Claims Management (TMCM), the claims management arm of Thomas Miller, the international market leading insurance services provider, has announced it has strengthened its senior management team with the appointment of Jessica Maitra as Director of Claims and Legal Services.
Jessica will act as Director of Claims and Legal services for all TMCM businesses, including Thomas Miller Law. A qualified solicitor, she joins TMCM from Clyde & Co, where she was a partner in the Marine and International Trade department. Jessica has over two decades of legal experience in the maritime industry, with particular expertise in dry shipping work, both contentious and non-contentious.
Jessica will join the Thomas Miller Newcastle office and will be responsible for leading front office operations of both TMCM and Thomas Miller Law. Jessica will work closely with the senior management team to develop TMCM’s client-focused services.
Nicky Cowans, CEO of Thomas Miller Professional Services, says: “Jessica is a well-known figure in the marine market and she is a very welcome addition to our growing team. I am certain her skills and experience will be of great value to the TMCM Group going forward.”
Jessica Maitra says: “This is a pivotal time to be joining an already very strong team at Thomas Miller Claims Management and I am determined to make a positive contribution to maintaining excellent service levels to the business and its clients.”
Chinese New Year fails to bring joy for carriers as blank sailings soar: Xeneta
In a stark display of the weak demand undermining the containerized ocean freight industry, the latest data from Xeneta reveals carriers blanked more than six times the number of sailings on the main Asia to US West Coast corridor leading up to Chinese New Year as they did in the equivalent period of 2019. And, according to Xeneta, this may be just the tip of the iceberg, as current data only counts blanked sailings announced before 6 January, with the New Year arriving on 22 January.
The Oslo-based firm, which crowdsources real-time ocean freight rate data from global shippers, notes that, in the four weeks leading up to the holiday, carriers announced the blanking of 220 489 TEU on the trade. This is a dramatic increase from the 29 796 TEU blanked in the same period of 2019, the last full pre-pandemic year.
Other leading corridors also suffered, with the Asia - North Europe trade seeing blanked sailings increase 715% against 2019 figures, currently standing at 226 000 TEU, while those from the Far East to the US East Coast climbed by 340% to 140 000 TEU.
“This really does demonstrate the low level of demand gripping the industry at present,” states Peter Sand (pictured), Xeneta’s Chief Analyst. “In a normal year, we tend to see very few blanked sailings in the run up to this major Chinese holiday, as shippers stock up on their inventories. So, this is a worrying development for carriers, and, no doubt, a bad omen of what’s to come for the year ahead.”
Sand adds that the week of the holiday itself has also seen a reduction in activity, with blanked capacity on the Asia to the US West Coast route currently standing at 57 970 TEU, a steep increase from the 6 800 TEU blanked in 2019.
“And these figures will likely increase in the run up to 22 January,” he notes, “as will the number of blanked sailings in the four following weeks, when carriers traditionally limit their offerings in line with the drop in Chinese manufacturing and subsequent exports. At the moment there’s some 68 000 TEU of blanked capacity announced for this post-New Year period, which is actually less than 2019. That said, there’s still plenty of time left for carriers to remove further capacity – so expect this year’s total to eclipse 2019’s.”
Despite the subdued outlook, Xeneta’s analysis shows that blanked sailings were actually far greater in number last year. However, this was, as Sand points out, an exceptional situation.
He explains: “The current levels are about half of the blanked capacity seen around New Year 2022. However, that was due to huge strains on global supply chains, with congestion and a lack of equipment derailing schedules. In some cases carriers were forced to add weeks to round trips making it impossible for ships to get back in time for their next scheduled departure.
“This year is very different. It’s a clear issue of depleted demand - as we can see by the falling ocean freight rates as carriers compete for business – rather than either congestion, covid or any other ‘structural’ challenges.
“In conclusion, it’s difficult to see much New Year cheer on the horizon for the industry right now.”
SEA-KIT triples production and expands R&D with new facility
SEA-KIT International’s brand-new production facility for its larger XL-Class Uncrewed Surface Vessel (USV) is now operational, with the first 18m hull being fitted out ready for delivery this summer to world-leading geo-intelligence specialist, Fugro.
2022 was a busy year for the growing USV designer and builder. Having announced expansion plans in March, the company went on to successfully deliver two more of its proven 12m X-Class vessels. Another two of these are currently in build in addition to the XL-Class, which has three times the payload capacity. SEA-KIT has recently been granted patents for its X and XL-Class designs.
Ben Simpson, SEA-KIT CEO said: “It is great to go into 2023 with the new facility up and running. With the addition of this building, we have tripled production capacity and expanded our R&D area. It gives us more, much-needed space for the ongoing development of launch and recovery systems for ROVs and AUVs, mast gondolas and sensor deployment systems, as well as enhancing manufacturing efficiencies for multiple USV builds.”
SEA-KIT officially opened the new building, built alongside the company’s existing base in Tollesbury, Essex, UK, on 1 October 2022. The company has also significantly invested in people over the last six months, with new starters joining the technical, design, operations and administration teams.
As well as working on a burgeoning orderbook, the team will soon be preparing the company’s testing and research vessel, USV Maxlimer, for her next mission. Maxlimer is back in the UK following a successful subsea volcano survey project in Tonga last August.
Ben continued: “We are always looking for people who want to apply their skills to supporting the company’s ethos of redefining the way we work offshore. The industry is collaboratively working towards ambitious net zero emissions targets and uncrewed vessels are already a critical part of our maritime future.”
A team from SEA-KIT will attend Oceanology International Americas next month to meet with end-users and stakeholders from the ocean science and technology community as they gather in San Diego.
Damen, NAPA and Bureau Veritas successfully deploy 3D classification approvals for first ship design
Damen Engineering has announced the completion of its first vessel design to be entirely created, reviewed and class-approved using 3D models in collaboration with leading classification society Bureau Veritas (BV) and global maritime software provider NAPA.
The 2500 m3 dredger concept is the first Damen vessel concept to receive BV certification using 3D model-based classification approval (3D MBA) – a process in which class societies review and approve designs using 3D models rather than 2D drawings, the current norm. Following this successful implementation of 3D MBA, Damen has confirmed that the process is already being applied to further designs including a 1000 m3 and a 4000 m3 hopper dredger.
These 3D model-based designs and approvals are supported by NAPA’s cutting edge technology which enables Damen and BV to work collaboratively on the same 3D model throughout the design and review process. From the very first project, the deployment of 3D MBA has yielded positive results, streamlining communication and saving time. Critically, 3D MBA also eliminates a major potential source of errors, as Damen no longer needs to translate the 3D models it uses to design vessels into 2D drawings for class approvals, and then back again into 3D to implement the changes.
This first approval follows a partnership between NAPA and Bureau Veritas to implement 3D model based approvals using a neutral OCX file format generated by NAPA Designer that enables BV to perform its prescriptive rule checks and calculations utilizing its in-house tools MARS and VeriSTAR Hull.
Kasia Romantowska, Managing Director of Damen Engineering Gdansk, part of the Offshore and Specialized Vessels Division of the Damen Group, commented: “From the outset, 3D model-based approval has delivered on its promises, helping our teams save valuable time. We have been using NAPA’s 3D design tools for a long time and being able to go through classification reviews and approval on the same 3D model is a game-changer. Now, all stakeholders in the design process have access to a single, reliable and real-time source of information and this is key to facilitate communication and limit the risk of errors.
“For Damen Shipyards Group, deploying 3D MBA is also an example of our constant commitment to innovation and this move will help us deliver the safe, reliable, efficient and sustainable ships that will help our clients achieve their goals, whether it is to reduce their environmental footprint or improve their performance.”
Mikko Forss, Executive Vice President at NAPA Design Solutions, said: “Implementing 3D models throughout the design and approval processes of new ships is the way of the future, unlocking a new level of collaboration and information-sharing in the ship design process. This creates a win-win situation that helps teams innovate together, enabling them to make the most of time and resources to deliver the best possible designs. This is particularly important at a time when the decarbonization transition is increasing the pressure on designers and shipyards to create a new generation of greener and more efficient vessels, and incorporate new fuels and technologies on board.
“We are proud to see 3D MBA supporting real-life projects today and this is thanks to the pioneering spirit of all partners, supported by robust, transparent and comprehensive digital tools.”
Laurent Leblanc, Senior Vice President Technical & Operations at Bureau Veritas Marine & Offshore, said: “We are delighted to deliver this approval for Damen’s 2500 m3 dredger concept which is the result of our collective determination to make 3D model-based approvals a reality in our industry. This milestone demonstrates the effectiveness and viability of 3D MBA to support closer and more efficient collaboration between designers and our classification surveyors while ensuring that all safety and regulatory standards are met.
“This collaboration with NAPA and Damen is a tangible demonstration of BV’s commitment to work with pioneers in our industry, supporting the safe innovation needed to meet the safety and sustainability challenges ahead.”
Inmarsat connectivity powers Austrian newcomers in historic ocean race campaign
As crews prepare for January’s 2022-23 edition of The Ocean Race, Austrian Ocean Racing are highlighting how satellite communication technology is powering their campaign to be the first Austrian sailing team to take on one of sport’s toughest challenges.
The ambitious newcomers tapped into the full power of Inmarsat’s FleetBroadband solution for enhanced performance and onboard communications during months of challenging preparation and racing to achieve their dream of making the starting line in Alicante, Spain, on 15th January. Inmarsat’s ‘always-on’ connection and additional airtime support allowed the Austrian team to capitalise on several applications onboard its VO65 yacht ‘Sisi’, like weather updates, tracking and streaming capabilities.
The reliable connectivity powered the team to strong performances in the 2022 offshore races, with improved speed and tactics. It also strengthened the drive for funding as the sailors raised their profile by professionally communicating their inspirational story to potential sponsors and fans by sharing the drama and emotions onboard to around 10k Facebook followers using engaging content.
Xaver Kettele, CMO for Austrian Ocean Racing powered by Team Genova, said: “Getting information from the boat to shore to tell the story is essential. It’s hard to understand what it means to race for two weeks, 24 hours a day. There is no place for retreat, no privacy, no break. To get this story out and to share it with the people around the world is essential for the sport. For us to compete in The Ocean Race is a big thing for the Austrian sailing community. We are a small team, with a small budget, but when you see what we have achieved in such a short time, you will know that we all put our heart and soul into our work.”
Austrian Ocean Racing powered by Team Genova lines up with the other VO65 teams to compete for The Ocean Race VO65 Sprint Cup, a new trophy awarded to the team that accumulates the best score across three different legs of the race: Alicante, Spain to Cabo Verde, off the coast of West Africa; Aarhus, Denmark to The Hague, the Netherlands; and The Hague to Genova, Italy. VO65 teams participating for The Ocean Race VO65 Sprint Cup will compete in the VO65 class in the In-port races scheduled in each city, starting on 8th January in Alicante, as well as the three stages of offshore racing from point to point.
Austrian Ocean Racing’s yacht is equipped with Inmarsat’s award-winning connectivity. The team has installed Inmarsat FleetBroadband 500 and FleetBroadband 250, providing satellite communication capabilities in-line with all The Ocean Race yachts. The Inmarsat FleetBroadband service allows applications such as internet access, emails, calls, weather reporting and telemedicine. It also features streaming IP available on demand, for live applications such as high-quality video streaming. Inmarsat C enables a two-way data connection for emergency services and 24/7 tracking.
Part of the team’s preparations was the 2022 The Royal Ocean Racing Club (RORC) Transatlantic Race. Inmarsat provided unlimited data so the Austrian sailors could use the satellite communication equipment to its full potential, a benefit that helped secure a strong fourth place finish in the International Rating Certificate (IRC) Zero class. In particular, Navigator Jolbert Van Dijk was able to download some 180 weather updates, enabling the team to gain a crucial advantage by using the live information to take a more northerly route on the 3000nm crossing from Lanzarote to Grenada.
Van Dijk said: “With the possibility of downloading so many weather updates, we gained a lot of confidence in the weather forecast and understanding what we were going to see. When we exited the low-pressure system, we were in a position next to the boats that were supposed to be a lot faster than us, so in the end this strategy really paid off. I had absolutely no issues or problems regarding the Inmarsat communication. It was perfect. It’s reliable, it’s there. You turn it on and it’s working.”
In addition to the weather updates, Austrian Ocean Racing was also able to use the Inmarsat connectivity to track the other boats every few hours. The critical safety benefits of reliable connectivity for the fleet also became evident during the RORC event. With one boat lost on the tracker for an extended period, the race organisers contacted the other yachts in the vicinity to reach out to the missing team, highlighting the need for a good connection to receive messages asking for assistance or in any other emergency. Meanwhile, the capability of the Inmarsat system to support streaming services is invaluable to helping them tell their story, by capturing and sending photos, videos and even uncrewed aerial vehicle footage while at sea.
IACS develops new wave data scatter diagram for wave load, fatigue and seakeeping calculations
Having concluded a long-term review of wave data, the International Association of Classification Societies (IACS) has now published a revised version (Rev.2) of IACS Recommendation No. 34 which provides advice on sea states as well as wave spectrum, spreading, heading distribution and vessel speed.
IACS Secretary General Robert Ashdown comments: ‘This extensive, long-term project to update and improve one of the key data sources that go into modern ship design is indicative of IACS’ ongoing commitment to safer shipping and provides a valuable tool for all other stakeholders who rely on accurate wave data in their work’.
Accurate Wave data remains of paramount importance as this data is used to represent the ocean environment, underpinning wave load prescription, which in turn, greatly impacts hull structural requirements. IACS Recommendation No. 34 describes wave statistics intended for design of sea-going ships above 90 meters including the effect of bad weather avoidance. It is based on North Atlantic trade, which represents the most severe conditions ships tend to operate in.
Following indications that the representation of North Atlantic waves in the existing IACS Recommendation No. 34 may have become outdated, IACS began work in 2016 on a long-term review of wave data tasked with investigating if and how Recommendation No. 34 could be improved using more recent data sources, with modern data showing both an increase in mean significant wave height for the North Atlantic and that more extreme weather is being experienced in recent years, including the existence of rogue waves and the possible effects of climate change.
Several sources of wave data, including altimetry (measurements from satellite), hindcast model (re-analysis of past weather), and wave buoys were used to derive the scatter diagram from a combination of vessel tracks and hindcast wave data. These new, more modern, data sources represent a significant improvement in the quality of data, given that previous wave data was collected in the second half of the 20th century from visual observations on board ships.
The IACS Project team Global hindcast datasets are built on global coverage over an extended period of time and have been analysed and validated through the use of measurements from buoys and altimeters. By taking into consideration publicly available AIS ship position data, this allowed the wave data to be mapped to actual ship position & time when generating the corresponding statistics whose analysis showed that bad weather avoidance had a significant impact on the wave statistics of the sea states encountered.
The resulting updated simple scatter diagram, using validated datasets of wave data and ship positions will facilitate more accurate estimation of design loads such as pressures, motions, accelerations, hull girder loads, all contributing to the improved standardisation of safety levels of the fleet. This data will be used by individual Classification Societies when reviewing their current rule requirements including, by IACS Members, for Common Structural Rules. This significant new data source will also be of value to other industry stakeholders who use wave data for individual projects, IACS says.
Norvic Shipping expands bulk capacity with new long-term charter
Dry bulk operator Norvic Shipping has acquired a dry bulk vessel on a long-term period-charter to meet growing global demand for the company’s services. The deal was signed in Norvic’s New York head office with reputed Japanese shipowner Fujimaru Kaiun, represented by the company’s president Mr Jiro Nishikawa (pictured, right), while Norvic was represented by AJ Rahman (left), Group CEO, and Michael Fenger, COO & Global Head of Chartering.
The new 64,000dwt Ultramax, to be named Norvic Copenhagen, will transport dry cargo for customers around the world following its delivery from Imabari Shipyard, Japan in Q2 2023.
“Norvic has decided to take newbuildings into our fleet of 125 vessels in response to our growing business and to meet our commitment to new environmental regulations such as the IMO’s Carbon Intensity Indicator (CII),” said AJ Rahman.
Chartering more newbuilds from Japan on five- to eight-year terms is part of Norvic’s plan. The company also aims to expand its fleet and diversify its service offering in the coming years with the expected delivery of two additional Japanese handymax vessels on long-term charters by the end of 2023.
“Having rapidly established Norvic Shipping as a leading international dry bulk operator, we’re now focused on deepening our existing capabilities by building our own fleet, providing new services and further extending the company’s global reach,” AJ Rahman added.
Norvic Shipping recently secured a $42.5 million working capital credit facility to finance its growing physical presence in key markets.
Maersk and DP World enter long-term partnership to optimise calls at Jebel Ali
A.P. Moller – Maersk (Maersk) and DP World Jebel Ali Port have entered a long-term partnership through which both parties will collaborate on various aspects of service delivery and work towards a common goal of decarbonising logistics and serve their customers better.
The long-term strategic partnership will give priority berthing for Maersk vessels, support for Maersk’s customers and implement new processes to improve quayside productivity, all leading to faster gate turnaround times at Jebel Ali Port and reduced bunker fuel consumption.
These are alongside visibility tools, which will allow Maersk’s customers to benefit from real-time information relayed by DP World to plan their supply chains better and ultimately cut carbon emissions. Maersk will deploy two of its solutions for customers moving their cargo through Jebel Ali -- Maersk Accelerate, a fast-tracking service through priority cargo handling, and Maersk Flex Hub, a cargo storage solution.
Jebel Ali Port (pictured) is a leading international gateway port, ideally located to serve the East-West trade corridor connecting to 150 cities globally. Lowering carbon emissions is a common goal for both companies and increasingly demanded by customers, who sit at the heart of every decision the companies take. The Intra Terminal Vehicles (ITVs) at Jebel Ali Port used at the Terminal where Maersk vessels berth will be converted from diesel ones to electric ones leading to a reduction of around 80% carbon footprint from these vehicles alone.
Mads Skov-Hansen, Head of Ocean Customer Logistics, Maersk West & Central Asia, commented: “In our journey as an integrated logistics provider, we are looking at every opportunity that can create value for our customers. DP World’s Jebel Ali Port has been a strategic partner to us over the last many years, and we have now extended our partnership with a clear focus on improving service delivery to our customers while reducing carbon footprint through our operations together.”
Shahab Al Jassmi, Vice President – Ports & Terminals, DP World UAE, said: “Jebel Ali’s success has been built on progressive collaboration with partners such as Maersk, enabling us to combine our operational efficiencies and expertise to ensure we deliver the best end-to-end solutions to our customers. This synergy has allowed us to develop a successful ecosystem at Jebel Ali that continues to evolve and adapt to the dynamic markets we operate in. We will embark on this journey together to exceed our customers' expectations.
Additionally, this collaboration will help us to achieve our goal of cutting CO2 emissions by nearly 700,000 tonnes over the next five years. Achieving this target alone will be challenging, but by working with reliable partners such as Maersk we can accelerate our progress and offer solutions to help our partners achieve their own sustainability goals at the same time.”
In January 2022, DP World entered a strategic partnership with the Mærsk Mc-Kinney Møller Center for Zero Carbon Shipping, an independent, not-for-profit organization launched in 2020 to undertake intensive research and development to find practical ways to decarbonise the global maritime trade industry.
Maersk has the ambition to achieve net zero emissions by 2040 across the entire business with new technologies, new vessels, and green fuels. DP World has committed to becoming a carbon-neutral enterprise by 2040 and net zero carbon enterprise by 2050.
DP World Chairman and Group CEO, Sultan Ahmed Bin Sulayem announced plans in November to invest up to $500 million to cut CO2 emissions from its operations by nearly 700,000 tonnes over the next five years. The reduction in carbon emissions represents a 20% cut from 2021 levels, through electrifying assets, investing in renewable power and exploring alternative fuels.
Euronav ripostes to Frontline decision to terminate combination agreement
Following what it called detailed consideration with its legal and financial advisors, Euronav last week rejected Frontline’s right to unilaterally terminate the two companies’ combination agreement signed on July 10, 2022.
It stated that Frontline had failed to provide a satisfactory reason for its decision to pursue termination - which apparently was because a full-blown merger between the two companies was no longer possible after Euronav shareholder CMB, controlled by the Saverys family, had acquired the 25% stake necessary to clock such a move.
Euronav pointed out that it has complied with its obligations under the combination agreement and had done everything in its power to make this transaction a success, and that its Supervisory and Management Boards are now in the process of analysing the Company’s options and will take appropriate action to protect and preserve the rights and interests of Euronav and its stakeholders, including but not limited to potential litigation and/or arbitration.
The company said it would continue to execute on its value creation strategy and remains “well positioned to seize the opportunities offered by improving market conditions and maximize its value potential for all stakeholders”, adding that it would “continue to communicate and maintain a constructive dialogue with [all] its shareholders.”
Further gains for offshore oil & gas vessel markets in 2022, reports Clarksons
Last year osaw positive progress for offshore oil and gas vessel markets, with the Clarksons Offshore Dayrate Index (Rigs, OSV and Subsea) up 32% to a post-2014 high (84, 2014: 100, 2017: 45). Key indicators of demand and utilisation also ticked up after the moderate post-Covid improvements of 2021. Despite macro-economic risks to the outlook, the markets seem generally “well set”, according to Clarksons.
Steve Gordon (pictured), Managing Director of Clarksons Research commented that energy markets were supportive of increased offshore activity with strong oil prices (Brent averaged $99/bbl driven by Russia-Ukraine conflict and post-Covid demand recovery) and a renewed focus on energy security. Offshore oil and gas is still 16% of global energy supply but only 3% of offshore production is Russian, he pointed out. Normalisation of intervention / maintenance activity after Covid-19 disruption also supported increased vessel demand.
National Oil Companies (NOCs) in particular accelerated offshore FIDs helping take overall offshore oil and gas CAPEX commitments to $102bn in 2022 (up 15% y-o-y), he continued, while the year also saw record MOPU investment (14 awards of $16bn (including 10 FPSO) plus 9 redeployments (including 8 FPSO)). In addition, impacts of multi-year fleet consolidation and contraction - both 2014-19 and immediate Covid-19 impacts – were ongoing.
Other trends noted by Mr Gordon across the major offshore oil and gas fleet segments included a 79% increase for the Middle East jack-up rig market across 2022., Increase in demand for OSV generally was up 7% y-o-y, with utilisation reaching 70% at end year, an increase of 4 points versus end-2021.
Clarksons’ index of OSV day rates rose by 29% to 138 points (still 18% below the 2014 peak), while in the significant large PSV term market in the North Sea, rates ended the year 74% up at £16,000/day.
Quinto Shipping orders Parsifal-type inland waterway tanker from Concordia Damen
Dutch inland shipping yard Concordia Damen has been commissioned to build and equip an inland shipping tanker for Quinto Scheepvaart B.V. from Zwijndrecht. The order also marks the switch, after 25 years, that family business Quinto makes from container shipping to tanker shipping.
Quinto has opted for a tanker of the Parsifal type, a new generation of mineral (oil and light chemicals) tankers that Concordia Damen has developed itself and several of which are already operational. This type of tanker measures 110 x 11.45 metres and has a large carrying capacity at a very shallow draft (2,875 tonnes at 3.25 metres). According to the shipyard, the efficient hull shape creates an optimal 'speed-power curve'. After all, the ship reaches a high speed with a relatively low power: more than 22 km per hour with 2 x 500 kW engines.
Inland navigation entrepreneur Luit Nanninga of Quinto says: “We had been planning to go into tanker shipping for some time. We came to Werkendam for repairs and were interested in the Parsifal tankers. After a conversation with managing director Chris Kornet, we visited the shipyard and viewed the ships. What particularly appealed to us was that this type was designed in such a way that it combines low resistance and a shallow draft with a large cargo capacity. This makes the ship more efficient and the transport per ton also more environmentally friendly. Another advantage is that smaller propellers can be used, which is very useful when the river is low – something happening quote a lot these days.”
Bert Duijzer, Technical Manager at Concordia Damen, says: “Quinto Scheepvaart is a new customer for us and we are grateful to Luit Nanninga and his sons Nick & Renko with this assignment and the trust they have placed in us. It is also further proof for us that we made the right choice at the right time to build some of our proven designs on stock. In addition to a number of dry cargo vessels that we are building for stock, this tanker was already under construction, which means we can shorten the delivery time by months.”
Parsifal inland tankers are designed in such a way that the type of propulsion per ship can be adapted to the wishes of the customer: diesel-electric, diesel-direct or LNG-electric. That also happened here. The ship, with its home port of Zwijndrecht, near Rotterdam, will sail with Caterpillar engines and is Stage V compliant. The tanker is expected to be delivered within a year, in December 2023.
Hapag-Lloyd acquires minority 49% stake in Italian terminal operator Spinelli Group
The responsible antitrust authorities have approved Hapag-Lloyd’s acquisition of a minority stake in the Spinelli Group, after signing took place in September 2022. With the closing of the transaction, Hapag-Lloyd has acquired 49 percent of the shares in one of Italy’s leading terminal and transport operators, with the remaining 51 percent of the shares remaining in the hands of the Spinelli family.
The parties have agreed to not disclose any financial details of the deal.
In driving its Strategy 2023, Hapag-Lloyd has continuously expanded its involvement in the terminal sector, most recently through an agreement to acquire a stake in the terminal business of Chile-based SM SAAM.
In addition to the now completed investment in the Italy-based Spinelli Group, Hapag-Lloyd also has stakes in JadeWeserPort in Wilhelmshaven, the Container Terminal Altenwerder in Hamburg, Terminal TC3 in Tangier, and Terminal 2 in Damietta, Egypt, which is currently under construction.
Grimaldi Group orders five more ammonia-ready car carriers
The year 2023 has opened with a new order for the Grimaldi fleet. The Neapolitan group has commissioned Shanghai Waigaoqiao Shipbuilding Company Limited (SWS) and China Shipbuilding Trading Company Limited (CSTC), two subsidiaries of China State Shipbuilding Corporation Limited (CSSC), to build five new PCTC (Pure Car & Truck Carrier) vessels, with the option for another two units, which would bring the total investment to over USD 630 million.
With a length of 200 meters, a width of 38 meters and loading capacity of 9,000 CEU (Car Equivalent Unit), the new buildings have been designed to transport electric and fossil fuel vehicles (cars, SUVs, vans, etc.) as well as other types of heavy rolling freight (up to 250 tons). They will be among the first ships equipped with a new type of electronic engine whose specific consumption is one of the lowest in its category. Thanks to their emission abatement systems, the new units will comply with the most stringent limits established at international level for CO2, NOx and SOx emissions.
In addition, the new ships will have the RINA (Italian Naval Register) Ammonia Ready class notation, which certifies that they may be converted for the use of ammonia as an alternative, zero-carbon fuel. They will also be designed for cold ironing with shoreside supply of electricity (where available), which constitutes a green alternative to the consumption of fossil fuels during port stays.
The vessels ordered represent an evolution of the modern and efficient 6,700-CEU car carriers delivered to the Group between 2016 and 2018 (Grande Baltimora, Grande New York e Grande Halifax): in addition to the significant increase in capacity, thanks to design innovations and state-of-the-art engines and systems, their CO2 emissions per cargo unit transported index will be 27% lower than that of previous generation of ships.
Upon their delivery, expected between 2025 and 2026, the new buildings will enhance the Grimaldi Group's services between Europe, North Africa, the Near and Far East.
The new order was signed just over two months after the Group's latest order for the construction of five ammonia-ready PCTC vessels (with an option for another five units): this testifies to the company's trust in the growth of the global automotive industry, and notably of the electric car segment.
Moreover, this agreement with SWS and China Shipbuilding Trading Company Limited comes at a very important time for the Chinese maritime industry, in light of the recent entry of the China Shipowners' Association, the national association representing owners, operators and managers of merchant ships, in the International Chamber of Shipping - whose current Chair is Grimaldi Group MD Emanuele Grimaldi.
Maritime Singapore leaders deliberate on shipping’s road ahead at SMF New Year Conversations 2023
Some 300 industry leaders across the diverse spectrum of Singapore’s maritime ecosystem gathered at the Singapore Maritime Foundation New Year Conversations 2023. The event was held at Shangri-La Singapore last Friday.
Chee Hong Tat (pictured), Senior Minister of State for Finance and Transport, graced the event as the Guest-of-Honour and delivered a speech outlining the developments and 2022 performance of Maritime Singapore, which he characterised as having good momentum for future growth.
Andreas Sohmen-Pao, Chairman of BW Group, moderated a panel discussion on ‘Shipping in Times of Change’. The panel deliberated on key issues shaping the outlook of the global maritime sector as businesses navigate an increasingly complex landscape of geopolitical tensions, changing energy and trade flows, environmental pressures and an evolving workforce. Other members of the panel were: Alex Hartnoll, Head of Business Transformation, X-Press Feeders; Edward Koo, Chief Operating Officer, TCC Group; Frederik Guttormsen, Managing Director of Shipping, IMC Industrial Group; and Lars Christian Kastrup, Chief Executive Officer, PIL.
“The maritime industry has emerged from the Covid-19 pandemic resilient and relevant. Even so, the near-term macro-outlook heading into 2023 remains uncertain due to a confluence of global factors,” said Mr. Hor Weng Yew, Chairman, Singapore Maritime Foundation.
“The SMF New Year Conversations as Maritime Singapore’s first industry event of the year provides leaders of the sector an opportunity to connect, exchange views on issues of strategic interest, and sets the cadence for the year ahead,” he added.
Saudi Global Ports begins work on upgrade of KAPD container terminals, celebrates record volumes
Saudi Global Ports (SGP) marked the start of its civil works upgrade to develop both container terminals at King Abdulaziz Port Dammam (KAPD) with a groundbreaking ceremony last week. At the event, the terminal also celebrated its latest productivity achievement with the handling of more than two million 20-foot Equivalent Units (TEUs) in 2022.
SGP, Saudi Telecom Company (STC) and Huawei Technologies also took the opportunity to announce the completion of 5G proof-of-concepts which had started in March 2022 as part of the Smart Ports initiative launched by the Saudi Ports Authority (MAWANI).
Key developments in the first of four phases of civil works will include the upgrade of berths, infrastructure and facilities in Terminal 1, expansion of existing berths and accompanying yard development at terminal 2, and the construction of a three-hectare SGP SandboX. The upgrade and expansions will allow SGP to accommodate more vessels and larger vessels, supporting the industry’s move towards mega container ships and in preparation for Saudi Arabia’s continued economic growth.
SGP SandboX will be a dedicated space for SGP to trial new equipment and technologies, including 5G proof-of-concepts (POCs) that will enhance the future-readiness and operational efficiency of SGP and KAPD.
SGP, STC and Huawei announced the completion of the 5G Smart Ports POCs in Smart CCTV, Smart Tally (containers and prime movers number recognition), remote operation of Automated Rubber Tyre Gantry (ARTG) Cranes, and remote image capture for safer forklift usage. SGP is the first 5G Smart Port in Saudi Arabia and the first seaport in the Middle East to trial remote-controlled ARTGs.
Chairman of the Board for Saudi Global Ports Mr Abdulla Zamil expressed SGP’s gratitude for the close partnership with Saudi government authorities, including MAWANI, King Abdulaziz Port and Saudi Customs. This has enabled SGP to work towards realising the Kingdom’s vision for the ports and logistics sector. He also highlighted the support from SGP’s technical partner, PSA, whose transfer of knowledge in port operations has helped to fast-track the physical and digital improvements at KAPD, growing SGP’s presence as the port of choice for Eastern and Central Saudi Arabia.
Regional CEO of Middle East and South Asia and Head of Group Business Development of PSA International Mr Wan Chee Foong said, “PSA is proud to have supported both the physical and digital infrastructure growth of KAPD, which have in-turn enhanced the logistics ecosystem in the Kingdom. We are committed to being alongside the Kingdom and SGP to co-create more new opportunities and successes in the Kingdom and regionally.”
PSA reports resilient 2022 container traffic despite global challenges
PSA International handled container volumes of 90.9 million Twenty-foot Equivalent Units (TEUs) at its port projects around the world for the year ending 31 December 2022. The Group’s volume decreased by 0.7% over 2021, with flagship PSA Singapore contributing 37.0 million TEUs (-0.7%) and PSA terminals outside Singapore handling 53.9 million TEUs (-0.7%).
Mr Tan Chong Meng (pictured), Group CEO of PSA, said: “The world experienced another challenging year in 2022 and although most countries were emerging from the global pandemic, many continued to suffer from the negative aftershocks which were compounded by the war in Ukraine, higher energy prices, global inflation and supply chain disruptions.
“Despite the challenges, I was heartened by the ability of our management, staff and unions to adapt and to honour promises to our customers across PSA’s ports, cargo solutions, marine and digital businesses – they showed their grit, resilience and an abiding commitment to excellence. Just as importantly, I am deeply grateful for the continued support of our customers and partners as we worked closely together to keep cargo moving and trade flowing.
“Going into 2023, the world is experiencing deep transitions towards new realities and while these times of change can be uneasy, PSA stands steady against the headwinds that may come our way as we continue to build on our core business of ports and – coupled with the acquisition of BDP International last year – widen our focus in enabling more agile, resilient and sustainable supply chains.
“We will partner closely alongside our customers, partners and stakeholders to future-proof our journey ahead, and continue in our mission to be a supply chain orchestrator, realise an Internet of Logistics and bring about more sustainable global trade.”
Suez Canal Authority collaborates with ABS to develop roadmap for Green Canal Program by 2030
ABS and the Suez Canal Authority (SCA) have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to develop a long-term sustainability roadmap and decarbonization strategy for the canal, one of the world’s busiest shipping routes.
The MoU will see ABS and SCA work together on issues related to sustainability and the green environment as a part of the SCA’s business plan to transition to a green canal by 2030. Over the year-long agreement, ABS and the SCA will work together to develop a decarbonization strategy and assessment of energy and emission intensity and potential ways of emission reduction.
SCA and ABS will collaborate in developing a long-term sustainability roadmap and embedding sustainability as part of the SCA’s core business strategy with a wide range of services such as technology selection, benchmarking and target setting, regulatory compliance documentation, carbon accounting and verification energy audits and more.
“The Suez Canal is a vital artery for global trade,” said Christopher J. Wiernicki, ABS Chairman, President and CEO. “Ensuring environmental stewardship for trade will make a significant contribution to creating a more sustainable platform for the entire shipping industry.
?ABS is a leader in maritime decarbonisation, and we are proud to be able to use our deep insight to address the complex set of challenges presented by such a key global waterway.”
Admiral Ossama Rabiee, Chairman of the Suez Canal Authority, said: “We are keen to enhance cooperation with all partners such as ABS, in the field of maritime transport in areas related to environmental sustainability and carbon removal within the authority's environment-friendly strategy, as a prelude to announcing the Suez Canal a ‘Green Canal.’ This is an important way to achieve environmental sustainability by raising the canal's efficiency and reducing carbon emissions.”
Environmental data provider joins Mærsk Mc-Kinney Møller Center for Zero Carbon Shipping
Today, ecoinvent and Mærsk Mc-Kinney Møller Center for Zero Carbon Shipping (the Center) formalized their collaboration by signing a Knowledge Partnership Agreement. With the agreement, ecoinvent and the Center become official partners, committing to a long-term strategic collaboration and contribution to accelerate the decarbonization of the maritime industry.
Founded by the Swiss research institutes ETHZ, EPFL, PSI, Empa and Agroscope, ecoinvent is an internationally active not-for-profit association devoted to supporting high quality science-based environmental assessments. Its activities include publishing and maintaining the ecoinvent Database, which currently contains over 18.500 reliable life cycle inventory datasets covering a diverse range of sectors on a global level. The association works with policymakers, private enterprises, NGOs, and the academic community globally.
In welcoming ecoinvent, Bo Cerup-Simonsen, CEO of the Center, said:
“This partnership is a major contribution to the mission we are on. ecoinvent is a world leader in the provision of environmental data, and our collaboration will accelerate the co-creation of data needed to support a sustainable energy transition in the shipping industry. This will also deepen our holistic understanding of how decarbonization solutions will impact on our climate and environment,” said Bo Cerup-Simonsen.
In joining the Center, Nickolas Meyer, CEO of ecoinvent, said:
“ecoinvent is proud to partner with the Mærsk Mc-Kinney Møller Center for Zero Carbon Shipping in the ambitious challenge to decarbonize the maritime industry. The Center has brought together a global cohort of strategic industry partners and expert knowledge partners to take on this challenge. ecoinvent welcomes the collaboration with the Center and our fellow partners and will support this grand scale endeavor by providing our world class life cycle data and expertise,” said Nickolas Meyer.
About ecoinvent
ecoinvent is a not-for-profit association based in Zurich, Switzerland. It was founded 20 years ago by the Swiss research institutes ETHZ, EPFL, PSI, Empa and Agroscope. ecoinvent has a strong belief that people all around the world should have access to high-quality and affordable data for environmental assessments. The association works with policymakers, private enterprises, NGOs, and the academic community globally.
The ecoinvent database is used as a background in Life Cycle Assessment and other environmental assessments. ecoinvent also collaborates as a knowledge partner on initiatives aiming to promote good practices in the use of life cycle inventories. The ecoinvent database serves sustainability-orientated organizations to develop decisions and actions towards international sustainability goals.
For more information, please visit www.ecoinvent.org
New advisory committee launched to address major maritime issues impacting Filipino seafarers
Global leaders from organisations representing seafarers, shipowners and other maritime employers signed a memorandum of understanding with the Philippines’s Department of Migrant Workers last week, to form the International Advisory Committee on Global Maritime Affairs (IACGMA).
The IACGMA is composed of the European Community Shipowners’ Associations (ECSA), the International Chamber of Shipping (ICS), the International Maritime Employers’ Council (IMEC), and the International Transport Workers’ Federation (ITF).
“The Philippine government through its Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) welcomes the participation of well-respected industry associations and leaders from the global shipping industry in developing our roadmap to a just transition as well as boosting the global competitiveness of Filipino seafarers across the globe,” Migrant Workers Secretary Susan Ople said during the signing ceremony of DMW with its international partners.
The Secretary assured the IACGMA’s international partners that other relevant government agencies in the Philippines such as the Department of Transportation and its attached agency, Maritime Industry Authority (MARINA) have expressed support to the goals and vision of the newly formed advisory body.
The formation of the IACGMA follows a meeting that took place on 13 December 2022 where shipping industry leaders met with H.E. President Ferdinand Marcos Jr, as part of his foreign policy tour in Brussels. During the meeting, President Marcos (pictured) recommended the establishment of a new advisory board to be made up of employers, shipowners and unions and the International Labour Organisation (ILO) to give expert advice on major maritime issues affecting Filipino seafarers.
The creation of the IACGMA solidifies the shipping industry and Philippines government’s commitment to ensuring the welfare of its seafarers and finding solutions to the challenges ahead. Key aims of the IACGMA include contributing to the provision of appropriate training to the country’s seafarers in compliance with the Standards of Training, Certification and Watchkeeping (STCW) Convention. The IACGMA will also work to address concerns regarding ambulance chasing and unfair labour practices, and on issues related to the employability of Filipino seafarers overseas, all key areas of discussion during the group’s December meeting.
London plays a pivotal role as shipping seeks to reframe risk in a complex marketplace
How does the shipping industry reframe ‘risk’ in what has become a complex marketplace today? And what role does London play in this?
With its wide range of relevant expertise and home to key hubs for many sectors of the international maritime community, London is uniquely placed to lead the international shipping industry as it seeks to drive innovation, build skills, and meet its ambitious climate goals.
Since its inception in 2013, London International Shipping Week has become synonymous with thought leadership, providing a high-level platform for the maritime world to debate crucial issues and solutions. Launching LISW23 on January 17th in London, invited guests will hear how “Reframing Risk In A Complex Marketplace” will be the central theme of this year’s 10th anniversary event in September.
As the leading maritime professional services and shipping/green finance centre, London is uniquely positioned to drive discussion on how to manage commercial risk on a global scale. The concept of risk as it applies to shipping is changing. It is becoming more complex and London can provide all the necessary expertise (including legal, insurance, risk assurance, finance, cargo trading, chartering and shipbroking) in one place.
The importance of supply chain resilience has been highlighted in recent years by the war in Ukraine, stringent international sanctions, the pandemic, and the temporary blocking of the Suez Canal. Harnessing the long-standing expertise of London’s maritime services, LISW23 will consider the business actions needed to protect and promote international trade. Throughout the week threads will examine ways of sourcing investment to drive and support maritime innovation; explore the development of new fuels, new ships, and new infrastructure; and scrutinise the world’s seaborne supply & demand dynamics.
Denis Petropoulos, chair of the LISW Board of Advisors and immediate past chairman of the Baltic Exchange Council, said: “London is internationally acknowledged as having a pivotal role in international shipping. Boasting pre-eminent maritime services, London offers well-established commercial shipping expertise across all sectors and is uniquely placed to lead international debate and developments.”
Achieving Net Zero 2050 will be a central topic for LISW23. Decarbonisation is driving everything from finance, to skills, innovation and technology. During a packed week-long programme of events encompassing all sectors of the international maritime industry, LISW23 will examine how shipping can meet and exceed its environmental, social and governance (ESG) targets, considering the commercial cost of regulatory compliance across the decarbonisation timeline, as well as contemplating how best to navigate the regulatory landscape in the short, medium and longer term.
LISW23 is organised by Shipping Innovation in partnership with the UK Government and Maritime UK. It will not shy away from challenging issues and will question how governments around the globe can best facilitate positive maritime change as well as confronting shipping’s responsibilities in protecting ocean environments while maximising the blue economy.
Looking to shipping’s horizon, LISW23 will ponder where are the next, tangible, opportunities for the industry to contribute to energy transition while also generating profits, in areas such as CO2 shipping, and offshore wind.
Seafarers remain at the heart of international shipping and they are also fundamental to LISW23 considerations. Crew welfare, training, skills, recruitment, retention and the impact of digital technology on seafarers will be a central discussion stream throughout the week.
John Hulmes, chair of the LISW Steering Group and chair of Mersey Maritime, said: “LISW21 was the first significant in person maritime event after the start of the Covid-19 pandemic and highlighted the resilience of the sector during times of crisis. LISW23 will build upon the messaging of previous years and showcase how, in increasingly turbulent times, the industry looks at and deals with risk.”
London International Shipping Week 2023 will take place from September 11 to 15 throughout various locations in London and the UK. The LISW23 Headline Conference will be held at the London headquarters of the International Maritime Organization on Wednesday 13 Sept, while the glittering gala dinner on Thursday 14 Sept is hosted for the first time beside the River Thames at ‘Evolution London’ in Battersea Park and is scheduled to go on late into the night.
Tototheo Maritime incorporates Starlink into its service portfolio
Leading global communication service provider, Tototheo Maritime™, has added Starlink’s new low latency high speed connectivity to its portfolio of services.
The agreement between Tototheo and Starlink was finalized in December 2022 and the well-known maritime technology solutions integrator, will commence deployment of the Starlink Kits within January 2023.
The addition of the Starlink LEO service to its portfolio, makes Tototheo one of the few maritime technology providers, offering a full range of competitive and reliable connectivity options as well as multiple integrated solutions to maritime, offshore and enterprise (land) clients.
Tototheo customers will have the maximum flexibility of selecting the configuration that best suits their needs by integrating the Starlink Service (LEO) with Inmarsat GX (Ka-Band & L-Band), TM Flex (Ku-Band), Iridium (L-Band), LTE (3G/4G) and terrestrial connectivity solutions.
SpaceX, has launched a huge constellation of low earth orbit (LEO) satellites to provide high-speed, low-latency connectivity with speeds of up to 350Mbps.
“This marks a new era for maritime connectivity”, said Tototheo co-CEO, Despina Panayiotou Theodosiou. “With a fast-expanding coverage area, the speeds Starlink offers will enable a leap forward in the integration of more effective and sustainable technologies in maritime”, she added.
“We have always looked ahead and believed that the future of maritime technology lies in synergies and integrated solutions. We look to the addition of Starlink to our range of services as a further step towards enhancing the reliability and flexibility of choice when it comes to onboard connectivity”, said Ms. Panayiotou Theodosiou.
Socrates Theodosiou, co-CEO of Tototheo Maritime added: “Tototheo, is uniquely positioned to help its customers meet their efficiency, regulatory and operational needs. Tototheo allows the integration and optimization of a hybrid solution and data handling offered by utilizing the SD-WAN and SD-LAN solutions, combined with TM SOC (Security Operation Center) keeping customers’ infrastructure and operations secure 24/7.”
The company concludes that this development is a game changer and a complete solution for all customers who value reliability, speed, low latency, and security of their data links onboard their vessels or shore infrastructures.
Clean Energy Marine Hubs Initiative gains further momentum at key Ministerial energy meeting hosted by IRENA
The Clean Energy Marine Hubs (CEM Hubs) initiative has gained further support during a Ministerial event hosted by the International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA) at its 13th Assembly in Abu Dhabi. IRENA welcomes the CEM Hubs initiative, a cross-sectoral public-private platform aimed to accelerate the production, transport and use of low-carbon fuels that will be transported by shipping for the world, implemented by the International Chamber of Shipping (ICS), the International Association of Ports & Harbors (IAPH) and the Clean Energy Ministerial (CEM).
IRENA is the leading global intergovernmental agency for energy transformation and its membership comprises of 168 countries and the European Union. IRENA’s support bridges the shipping industry and ports with the renewable energy sector. IRENA is the principal platform for international cooperation, boasting near-global membership it supports stakeholders in their energy transitions, and brings a wealth of insights, best practices, data analysis and knowledge to the CEM Hubs initiative.
The CEM Hubs Initiative taskforce, with other members of the shipping industry, actively engaged in a Ministerial Roundtable at IRENA’s 13th Assembly and joined in the discussions about renewable energy generation to produce low-carbon fuels, strategies going forward and the role of shipping and ports, to support the wider energy transition.
IRENA will continue to expand its collaboration with ICS and partners in the shipping sector to further strengthen the CEM Hubs initiative and accelerate the use of renewables-based fuels in the shipping and other end-use sectors.
ICS Chairman Emanuele Grimaldi (pictured) commented: “We would like to thank IRENA and Francesco La Camera for inviting us to be part of IRENA’s 13th Assembly and these critical discussions. Renewable energy generation is not only vital for shipping but for the whole world, as it is a key component to scale the availability of low-carbon fuels. We can all no longer work in silos if we are to meet global decarbonisation goals. Governments, ports, renewable energy producers and the shipping industry all have a role to play and the CEM Hubs initiative provides the platform to push this forward. The time for talking is over – it is time for action.
“Going forward the CEM Hubs initiative will continue to strengthen the key link between the energy and maritime industries and to catalyse the global energy transformation and de-risk future investments. With COP28 just around the corner, we look forward to collectively working together with the UAE and IRENA to ensure that shipping plays its full part in the global fight to address climate change.”
Clarksons Shipbuilding Review 2022 shows LNG and container vessels dominated new orders
While global newbuild order volumes fell 20% y-o-y in CGT terms) 2022 was still an active year for the global shipbuilding industry with higher pricing up 15% on average, according to Clarksons Research’s Shipbuilding Review 2002. In general, more complex ships were ordered - including a record 182 LNG orders worth $39bn - and alternative fuel investment increased to a record 61% of tonnage ordered, all supporting a 6% increase in value of orders to $124.3bn.
According to a MD Steve Gordon as published in Clarksons Shipping Intelligence Network, ordering in 2022 was dominated by LNG, which represented 36% of total CGT, together with container vessels with 350 ships and 29% of total CGT, which while down 50% y-o-y was still the third largest on record on a TEU basis. Car Carrier (69 vessels, 2.4 CGT), FPSO and ‘wind’ niches also did well.
Despite improving charter markets, tanker orders fell 64% while bulkers dropped 54%. Increased tanker orders are thought likely for 2023, along with a continued flow of LNG - despite the average price for a 74,000 cbm vessel being $248m at end-2022, up a significant 18% year-on-year, according to Clarksons.
In terms of regional market share of shipbuilding orders by CGT, China and South Korea dominated with 49% and 38% respectively of the total. Japan took a dwindling 16% share - although some very end-year figures may not have been reported, notes Clarksons - while European yards held steady at 5% thanks mainly to cruiseship orders.
From an owner perspective, China ($18.4bn), Japan ($15.1bn) and Italy ($11bn) contributed 36% of investment while Greek owners were biding their time, relatively speaking, appending ‘only’ $8.5 bn.
With only 131 ‘large’ active yards compared 320 in 2009, Clarksons Research estimates shipbuilding capacity now stands some 40% lower than a decade ago.
Orca AI joins One Sea as association’s global footprint continues to grow
One Sea has welcomed intelligent navigation solutions provider, Orca AI, as the newest member of the growing international association representing stakeholders across the autonomous shipping sector.
Orca AI, headquartered in Tel Aviv, provides a fully automated look-out for the bridge, advancing situational awareness on board and ensuring safe and efficient shipping operations. The company’s AI and computer vision-driven platform also provides fleet managers and operators greater visibility into fleet operations via real-time alerts and identifies risk trends which require action.
Sinikka Hartonen (pictured), Secretary General of One Sea, said: “Orca AI delivers cutting-edge technology to the maritime transport sector and I’m very pleased to welcome the company to the One Sea Association. Over the last 12-months we have welcomed several new members and experienced an increase in the number of companies expressing an interest in joining One Sea as we continue to work with industry partners to address regulatory challenges and advance the development of autonomous maritime transport systems.”
Dor Raviv, Chief Technology Officer at Orca AI, said: “Powered by AI, our solutions provide the captain and crew with enhanced automated target detection and prioritisation capabilities in congested waters and low visibility conditions, helping to eliminate human error and maximise voyage safety and operational efficiencies.
“While AI is powering tangible progress in shipping operations, a collaborative approach is critical for the industry in order to secure the full benefits available from autonomous ship technology. One Sea is helping to ensure the industry’s voice is heard in developing global safety standards for autonomous ship operations and we look forward to working with the Association and its members to advance our vision to improve safety and operational efficiencies using intelligent automated vessel technologies.”
Houlder collaborates with Blue Sea Power on gas-to-power projects for Kos, Chios and Lesvos islands
Design and engineering consultancy Houlder is collaborating with Blue Sea Power, an integrated energy solution provider as a gas-to-power company based in Athens, to develop three innovative floating LNG-to-power barges (FSRPs).
The FSRP (Floating Storage Regasification & Power-generation) barges, which are set to be operational by 2025, will efficiently provide greener, lower emission baseload and peak power to the non-interconnected islands of Kos, Chios and Lesvos. This power will be used when existing renewable solar and wind energy utilisation is at its technical limits. The barges will replace the outdated and inefficient existing diesel and heavy fuel oil power generation infrastructure, whilst meeting the EU Taxonomy and new Greek Climate legislation.
In the current phase, Houlder will complete the barge designs to a level that will achieve approval in principle by the class society, Lloyd’s Register, and will support Blue Sea Power with the design package for securing suitable tenders from shipyards. In a previous phase, Houlder completed the key decision studies on the main power generation engine selection, a cargo containment system, design standardisation, GHG reduction & efficiency options, and CAPEX, as well as an environmental study – looking at elements such as the impact on seawater temperature and noise pollution.
To adhere to ambitious EU greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions requirements, the barges must generate power efficiently. According to EU Taxonomy regulations on GHG emissions for new power plants in Greece, the limit is 270g of CO2 per e/kWh or a 20-year average of 550kgCo2/kWh. Houlder will therefore incorporate innovative, specialist solutions to meet and even exceed these standards.
Blue Sea Power barge solutions are RRF (Reconciliation Recovery Fund) eligible, where EU funding will cover a substantial part of the CAPEX for these additional GHG reduction measures. As the projects are ESG compliant, the team has also leveraged green funding effectively, which it has secured from multiple banks and investors to finance the project.
Although proven technologies are used, specific innovations will be included to improve efficiency. The technical solutions include maximising waste heat recovery from the exhaust and using waste heat recovery from the engine’s cooling water system for freshwater generation for export. The barges will also maximise cold energy recovery from the LNG evaporation and use variable frequency drives to improve the efficiency of motors onboard.
The team expects to use a cryogenic carbon capture system onboard the power barges. The engines used will be hydrogen production blend ready to further improve sustainability as the technology to enable this matures and there will be scope to factor and blend bio-LNG and renewable synthetic e-LNG into the supply chain to further reduce GHG emissions.
Jonathan Strachan, Houlder’s ship design and engineering director, commented: “The Blue Sea Power team has been a pleasure to work with and we are looking forward to the outcomes of this interesting project. Floating LNG power barges are greener than traditional power generation infrastructure and, with novel integrated design and engineering developments, we can make energy production even more efficient and sustainable.”
The founding partner of Blue Sea Power, Konstantinos Mitropoulos, said: “We are pleased to be undertaking this innovative floating power solution project with Houlder. We have obtained electricity production licences from the regulator for Kos, Chios and Lesvos and we have developed a strong approach to provide all three islands with greener, lower-emission power. Houlder has been an invaluable partner. The team has leading technical expertise in sustainability-centric design and engineering and has worked in a practical approach, which has also complemented the Blue Sea Power project delivery expertise.”
Mark Graham, Blue Sea Power Director of Projects, commented: “Whilst the FSRP integrated power barge is a solution that may appear novel in its approach, the power barge utilises proven tried and tested equipment to reduce associated design and construction risks. The FSRP near-shore solution along with its modular design and shipyard construction also presents many repeatability benefit opportunities on CAPEX, OPEX and Construction schedule savings.”
Looking ahead, Houlder believes there is also potential to develop many more barges and even scale up the projects to efficiently provide other Greek islands and EU locations with green energy.
The BMA launches comprehensive online reporting tool for use by managers and owners
In line with The Bahamas Maritime Authority’s (BMA) commitment to consistently high standards and exceptional service, it is pleased to announce that it has developed a comprehensive online reporting portal for use by managers and owners which has now been launched.
The BMA’s online reporting portal is the first of its type to be employed in the maritime sector and has been developed to simplify the process for its clients, acting as a one-stop shop. Replacing the nine forms that might currently be used to report anything from a serious marine casualty to a birth at sea, the portal meets all the reporting requirements of the Merchant Shipping Act and other national and international requirements. The main benefit of the new system is efficiency, with all relevant information being captured at the same time, reducing duplication of effort completing multiple forms. Equally important will be that the collected data can be more effectively analysed for trends within The Bahamas fleet.
Nick Dowden (pictured), Assistant Director and Marine Investigator in The BMA’s Investigations Department, explained how clients will benefit from the new system: “Currently it can be quite a laborious exercise to report an incident, perhaps requiring the completion of three or four different forms. By digitalising the process the system itself will handle any duplications of information needed and will also lead the user through the stages of reporting - asking only for relevant details and flagging any supporting material that is needed.
“In terms of data collection and analysis, it will make it much easier for us to identify trends across our fleet so that clients can benefit from each other’s experiences. This will be particularly helpful to managers and owners who have only one or two vessels operating and so wouldn’t have the benefit of seeing the wider trends in the industry.”
The new portal, which initially will run concurrently with the paper system, has been specifically designed to work even in the event of the ship’s connectivity being lost. Any report that is submitted whilst offline – even if that loss occurs midway through the reporting process - will be stored in the client’s computer cache and will synchronise with The BMA server once the connection to the internet is restored.
The new reporting tool is just one of a number of initiatives that The BMA has been introducing recently to enhance its online services and digital offering to its customers.
MSC continues support for Team Malizia’s remote ocean data collection during round-the-world sailing race
Last week a six-month-long sailing race started from Alicante, Spain for a journey around the globe. Skippered by Boris Herrmann, and supported by MSC, Team Malizia’s Seaexplorer is embarking in search of a second set of ocean CO2 data from the most remote regions of the ocean.
MSC (Mediterranean Shipping Company) says it is proud to continue supporting veteran skipper Boris Herrmann and Team Malizia in he round-the-world sailing race that seeks to promote ocean science, protection, and education around the world.
Fresh off a victory in the ‘in-port’ race in Alicante, Team Malizia is carrying the colours of MSC, one of six Official Founding Partners, as it starts the first leg of this endurance challenge. MSC collaborates with the team to support the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), as well as Team Malizia’s drive to increase ambition around climate action (SDG 13) as one of the most pressing challenges of our time.
Over the next six months Team Malizia will circumnavigate the globe, visit nine iconic cities and ports, sail through the Doldrums, on the edge of Antarctica, and in the heart of tropical storms. Carrying the message ‘A Race We Must Win’, the team's mission is to promote ocean science, protection and education around the world whilst inspiring the next generation of ocean scientists. Its educational program ‘My Ocean Challenge’ is used in classrooms all over the world to teach children about the beauty of the oceans and the dangers they face through climate change.
For a second year in a row, Team Malizia will be looking to replicate the success of its innovative onboard mini-laboratory designed to capture ocean science datasets. The data captured will allow scientists to further advance their understanding into the impacts of climate change on the ocean, and how the ocean is moderating climate change. Until Team Malizia’s first attempt at ocean data collection in 2021, there was almost no data from the remote region of the Southern Ocean. After Boris Herrmann’s lap around the world, the scientific community now has a picture of the Southern Ocean for the first time.
Mainprize Offshore targets efficiency gains with BareFLEET vessel monitoring system
Offshore services provider Mainprize Offshore is rolling out Reygar’s BareFLEET vessel monitoring system across seven of its semi-SWATH crew transfer vessels (CTVs) as it targets increased efficiencies and operational performance gains for its growing fleet.
Following a successful proof-of-concept trial on one vessel, MO6, in October, additional installations are now planned with roll out expected across the new build fleet as they arrive.
BareFLEET will be used to monitor key vessel measurements, including navigational activity, vessel motion sickness and stability during passenger transfers, plus the performance and fuel efficiency of engines and other critical machinery. By centrally collating this performance data in one place, the system provides internal and external reporting efficiencies and ultimately enables more effective, fleet-wide decision making.
Bob Mainprize, Managing Director of Mainprize Offshore, said: “We like to push boundaries constantly in what we do. BareFLEET will enable us to better understand the vessels’ performance when transferring in two metre wave height and over, whilst also managing fuel consumption and ultimately reducing emissions, for more efficient and sustainable offshore operations. It adds value to our fleet and benefits crews, clients and the wider industry.”
BareFLEET, developed by Reygar, is an award-winning fleet remote monitoring system that provides unprecedented levels of insight into fleet fuel use, emissions, machinery health, VMMS motion and navigational activity based on continuous on-board sensor measurements. The solution’s video camera features also allow users to see their CTVs in action whilst pushing on to a wind turbine, with live motion and engine load measurement data overlaid onto the video.
The video camera feature has been especially beneficial to Mainprize Offshore in enabling the company to visibly demonstrate successful push-ons to stakeholders even in rough sea states, thanks to innovative vessel design.
Chris Huxley-Reynard, CEO of Reygar, said: “Offshore energy support vessel operators have invested heavily in sophisticated turbine and transmission technology for their vessels. Now, many are looking to complement those capabilities with a fully digital approach to vessel monitoring for optimised performance and enhanced service value. The value of BareFLEET continues to increase as more data is collected, providing data and trends that translate into unparalleled fleet operations insights.”
BDP International appoints Finance Leaders to drive growth
Specialist provider of globally integrated supply chain, BDP International transportation and logistics solutions, has announced Mr. Vincent Ng and Ms. Eileen Graber as Chief Financial Officer, and Deputy Chief Financial Officer, respectively.
Mr. Ng will oversee all aspects of BDP’s financial operations throughout its global network of wholly-owned subsidiaries, joint ventures, and strategic partnerships. BDP has over 130 locations around the globe, with over 5,500 employees serving customers across a wide range of industry verticals, including chemical, life sciences & healthcare, industrial & manufacturing, and consumer & perishables.
Vincent is a highly experienced finance executive and has served as a key member of the PSA leadership team in various roles and locations around the globe. His expertise and keen knowledge of finance was a driving force in PSA’s success in pivotal markets such as South Asia, Antwerp, and Mersin, Turkey. Most recently, Vincent held the role of Regional CFO, Europe, Mediterranean, and Americas, where he oversaw financial aspects of all PSA companies within the regions and their related joint ventures while also managing business development strategies and initiatives. Vincent is a CPA and serves as a Director of the Board for several PSA companies.
Additionally, Eileen Graber will serve as Deputy Chief Financial Officer, supporting and strengthening BDP’s financial operations through her diversified experience in finance, accounting, cash management, performance, reporting, and strategic planning. Most recently, Eileen served as Chief Financial Officer, Americas, where she was instrumental in driving efficiency and identifying new processes for business enhancement, while also streamlining and enhancing reporting functionality. Eileen is a CPA, MBA, and CGMA.
“I am excited and honored to welcome Vincent and Eileen to our executive leadership team,” said Mike Andaloro, BDP Chief Executive Officer and President. “Each executive brings extensive business acumen and experience in leading highly successful supply chain enterprises that are unmatched in today’s industry climate. I am confident that the BDP organization is exceptionally well-positioned for future growth and expansion under their financial leadership.”
Mr. Ng will be based in Antwerp, Belgium, and Ms. Graber will be based in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.
Perenco Brazil announces FSO sail away as key milestone in $400m Pargo Development Plan
Perenco Brazil is pleased to announce that the Floating Storage and Offloading vessel FSO PARGO has now left Dubai and is on its way to the Pargo Cluster in the Campos Basin offshore Brazil. Once moored on location, the FSO will be central to the extension of Perenco Brazil’s offshore performance.
FSO Pargo, a double-hull vessel built in 2004 which has a 750,000 barrels storage capacity, is expected to be on location in March, moored in April and operational in August 2023, following final licensing approval. The FSO conversion work began in September 2021 at DryDocks World, Dubai to extend its service lifetime by 20 years, adapting the vessel to the Brazilian standards and including modifications, such as the installation of an external turret mooring system, a helideck, a metering skid, an extra crane, a new offloading system and export line.
Daily production from the Pargo Concession, which comprises the Pargo, Carapeba and Vermelho fields is now approximately 12,000 barrels of oil per day, an increase of almost 300% from the 2,800 barrels per day when Perenco Brazil took over the Pargo Cluster in October 2019.
Since that time, Perenco Brazil has focused on resuming operations, redeveloping the cluster and continuing to deliver multiple important investment projects as part of the Pargo Cluster Development Plan. These include an ambitious work plan for 2023: installation in January of two new pipelines from the Carapeba and Vermelho fields to the Pargo units, intensive well works with up to three simultaneous workover units in operation, the upgrade of the Pargo water treatment system, resuming operation of the Vermelho 1 and 2 platforms and reservoir assessments for potential new plays.
Combined, these projects will contribute to the company's continuing organic growth in Brazil and will enable the next production milestone of 15,000 barrels per day by the end of 2023.
Commenting on today’s announcement Yves Postec, General Manager, Perenco Brazil, said: “We are pleased to confirm the sail away of the FSO, which is a key part of Perenco Brazil’s U$ 400 million Pargo Development Plan. Perenco´s deep technical expertise in the successful operation of mature fields has been clearly evident in the Pargo Cluster, where we have now completed three years of safe operations.
“In addition, we are making a positive impact, contributing to Brazil growth, by creating new direct and indirect jobs, increasing the state's revenues from taxes and royalties, boosting the services industry, and through our long-term community projects with their social and economic benefits. I would like to thank our partners, and the Perenco team, and look forward to continuing to build on the momentum of the last three years.”
Perenco Brazil holds a 100% stake in the Pargo Concession. The Pargo Development Plan was formally approved by the Brazilian authorities in early 2021, along with extending Perenco’s rights on the concessions until 2040.
Survitec’s new Life Ark receives type approval certification from Bureau Veritas
Following the launch at SMM last year, global Survival Technology solutions provider Survitec has announced that its new Marine Evacuation System (MES) Life Ark has received full-type approval from classification society Bureau Veritas.
Certification of Life Ark, a helical slide-based MES for small to medium-sized passenger vessels, follows the successful completion of stringent design and evacuation trials required under the SOLAS Convention and the EU’s Marine Equipment Directive.
Protecting passengers and crew on vessels with a freeboard height of up to 23 metres and passenger capacities ranging from 300 to 1,500 persons, such as ferries and expedition cruise ships, Life Ark builds on Survitec’s success and growing market share in the larger cruise ship market, where the company has installed some of the largest dry-shod MES systems on the most advanced cruise ships in the world.
Richard McCormick, AES and MES Product Manager at Survitec, said: “There is demand for an extended service MES solution with high functionality to serve the smaller passenger vessel market. We went back to the drawing board and took a fresh look at how we could adapt our cruiseship evacuation technology to meet the requirements of this market. Bureau Veritas Type Approval means that the smaller passenger vessel segment can now benefit from the same revolutionary helical slide-based MES used in the larger cruiseship segment.”
Andreas Ulrich, Global Market Leader Passenger Ships & Ferries, Bureau Veritas, said: “Marine Evacuation Systems have been proven as a safe and reliable means of survival and Survitec is one of the pioneers having developed such systems. BV is proud to have been chosen as a partner for the new Life Ark and has recently issued a MED TA certificate for the new system.”
Using the fully enclosed, dry-shod helical (spiral) slide design inherent to Survitec’s popular Marin Ark 2 MES and Seahaven AES, Life Ark ensures a safe, rapid and comfortable descent for people of all ages and abilities. There is no restriction on the size of individual users, and crew can ascend the slide to assist passengers if necessary.
Fully enclosed single and double helical slide options are available in an asymmetric arrangement. The Life Ark comprises self-righting approved liferafts for 50, 100, 150 persons, with SOLAS A, B and HSC emergency packs.
Inflation takes place automatically within 60 seconds and minimal crew interaction is needed during this phase. Multiple buoyancy compartments provide stability and safety in the most challenging sea conditions.
Life Ark+ is available as a 30-month extended service option.
Marlink and Fraunhofer CML Institute partner to map maritime KPI data and ROI scenarios
Smart network solutions company Marlink has signed an agreement with leading research institute Fraunhofer CML (Center for Maritime Logistics and Services) to identify Key Performance Indicator (KPI) data to accelerate digitalisation and define the Return on Investment (ROI) scenarios for long term operational efficiency.
Within this agreement, Marlink will leverage its BridgeLink solution to deliver data from core engine room and bridge systems including VDR, ECDIS, Radar, AIS, AMS, engine control systems, cargo systems, propulsion and sensors. The outcomes will enable shipowners to better understand how to optimise voyages, reduce fuel consumption and optimise operational maintenance. Fraunhofer CML develops and optimises processes and systems for the maritime supply chain. The institute supports private and public sector clients, including ports, logistics services providers and shipping companies, implementing innovation using practice-oriented research.
The joint research project reflects the importance of data collection to the transformation needed to achieve long term efficiencies and compliance with decarbonisation targets, optimising investments to reflect vessel lifespan. To do so, shipping companies will need to shift from reactive or procedural operations to centralised and data-driven work processes if they want to maximise the expected optimisation and efficiency savings and comply with regulations and commercial terms.
Using quantitative analysis techniques and industry-specific knowledge, Fraunhofer CML will produce a unified dataset that will be used as a reference model by owners who want to improve efficiency in data-driven use cases but whose technical departments may require additional support. Feedback already collected by Marlink suggests that operators of all sizes would benefit from assistance in gathering the harmonised data that they can use to develop a practical digital decarbonisation strategy.
The KPIs generated will be measured against a baseline of historical data which will define and set out the new data to be collected. From the data and supporting information provided, Fraunhofer CML and Marlink will produce representative data on ROI scenarios for shipowners’ different use cases. Owners will use the results to make operational improvements and plan strategic investments in energy saving devices based on ship type, age and fleet profile.
“Decarbonisation is challenging for many shipping companies, as it represents a fundamental change to their operations and a transformation in their customer relationships,” said Nicolas Furgé, President, Digital, Marlink. “This research project will help shipowners implement their decarbonisation and optimisation strategies and help them plan investment and make decisions on a shorter timeline.”
“Fraunhofer CML has vast experience in addressing shipping industry challenges using interdisciplinary teams of engineers, economists, mathematicians, computer scientists and navigators to create customised solutions,” said Dr.-Ing. Anisa Rizvanolli, Team Leader at Fraunhofer CML. “This project will fill a vital need by providing actionable KPI data that companies can adopt into their daily processes and use to plan for a low carbon future.”
KR and SIRM launch cyber security e-learning training
Korean Register (KR) has launched maritime cyber security officer e-learning training in conjunction with maritime technology company SIRM Italia. The training will be delivered to Oltremare, a company in Assarmatori National Shipping Association which provides training to its members.
The new course covers administrative security and cyber risk assessment as well as understanding and practice of maritime cyber security. The course is designed for ship officers who are required to undertake cyber security related audits and surveys.
LEE Hyungchul, KR Chairman & CEO, said: “With so many computer-based systems onboard, ships are vulnerable to cyber risk. Therefore, comprehensive cyber security preparedness is now essential for any maritime industry. This e-learning training allows superintendents and crews at all levels to continue their training, to understand and take actions to manage cyber security risk. We will provide quality training to European customers, starting with providing this cyber security e-learning training to OLTREMARE.”
Claudio Aleandri (pictured second left at signing ceremony), CEO /COO of SIRM Italia said: “With rapid advancement in technology, shifting cyber threat landscape and increased digitalization, organizations are exposed to greater cybersecurity risks that may potentially have an adverse impact to their business objectives. It is imperative to prioritize and plan defenses to avert those risks effectively.
Organizations should be able to identify 'what could go wrong' and determine the levels of cybersecurity risk that they are exposed to, developing adequate assessment and adapting ICT infrastructure. Improving an internal cyber risk awareness culture, through dedicated training, is the strategic approach to protect the organizations and facilitate their governance.”
KR has long-established expertise in this area, and developed its cyber security technical and certification services in line with international security standards including ISO 27001, IEC 62443, the NIST Cybersecurity Framework, IMO and BIMCO cyber security guidelines. Also, KR has provided cyber security technical and certification services for companies and ships since 2018, and cyber security type approval services for equipment or system installed on ships in compliance with IEC 62443 4-2 and IEC 61162-460 standards since 2019.
LNG as a marine fuel – the momentum continues
The SEA-LNG coalition’s latest annual review of LNG as a marine fuel entitled ‘A View from the Bridge 2022-23’, highlights how shipping has advanced along the LNG pathway to decarbonisation. 2022 proved another very strong year for LNG vessel orders with numbers almost equalling those in 2021, the record year to date, despite exceptionally high LNG prices.
The growing, multisector orderbook and continuing build-out of infrastructure reflect the recognition from ship owners and fuel suppliers that LNG delivers immediate and important local air quality benefits and GHG compliance, says Peter Keller, Chairman, SEA-LNG. “Shipping stakeholders are investing in LNG because it provides a low-risk, incremental pathway for decarbonisation, starting now.”
SEA-LNG points out that the shipping industry is making newbuild investment decisions now that will impact GHG emissions today and for the next 25-30 years, the typical lifetime of a deep-sea vessel. While regulators and industry are agreed on the net-zero emissions destination, the implications of the pathway are rarely discussed, it says, and the total pathway emissions associated with many of the alternative fuels being discussed may be much higher than those associated with LNG and its bio and synthetic variants.
This year the commercial availability of bio-LNG will continue to scale up, says the report. As one of the cheapest of the alternative fuels under discussion, bio-LNG offers an immediate next step on the LNG pathway to decarbonisation, it says, and allows owners to transition safely and easily from fossil LNG – meaning vessels ordered today will be able to continue operating within increasingly stringent GHG emissions regulations up to and beyond 2050.
'A View from the Bridge' includes additional statistics, quotes and infographics on the LNG orderbook, bunkering infrastructure, local emissions, alternative fuel pathways, practical decarbonisation challenges, regulatory compliance, bio-LNG cost & availability, renewable synthetic e-LNG projects, methane slip and much more. The full report can be downloaded from the SEA-LNG website.
Three new services launched from Southeast Asia to Australia
ONE is pleased to announce that we will launch 3 new Southeast Asia to Australia Services. These services will be a direct replacement of our existing services in order to improve service reliability. ONE will continue to deploy our vessels on the services, which are expected to start from early March, subject to regulatory approvals.
The new service rotation will be as follows:
Port Kelang – Tanjung Pelepas – Singapore – Melbourne – Sydney – Adelaide – Fremantle – Port Kelang, first sailing: ETA Port Kelang 9 March
Tanjung Pelepas – Singapore – Brisbane – Sydney – Brisbane – Tanjung Pelepas, first sailing: ETA Tanjung Pelepas 7 March
Tanjung Pelepas – Singapore – Fremantle – Tanjung Pelepas, first sailing: ETA Tanjung Pelepas 13 March
Swedish Club announces key management moves to strengthen global offering
In a pivotal move aimed at further strengthening The Swedish Club’s long-term position in the global market, the Club has announced the following management changes taking place during late Spring 2023.
Lars A. Malm will become Managing Director and Area Manager in the Club’s Hong Kong office, contributing with his broad range of claims, loss prevention and business development skills to further expand and serve this important shipping hub. At present, approximately 50% of the Club’s business is centred in this important region. Lars currently holds the position of Director, Strategic Business Development & Client Relations. Ruizong Wang will continue as Chairman of The Swedish Club Hong Kong Ltd., reporting to the Managing Director, Thomas Nordberg.
Tord Nilsson has been appointed Area Manager, Team UK. He will drive the Club’s reinsurance activities and lead continued expansion within this vital maritime centre with the aim of further establishing the London office as a full-service operation delivering exceptional underwriting and claims services to owners and brokers. Tord is currently serving as Director, Underwriting, Reinsurance & Risk Control. Lars Nilsson will continue as Senior Advisor at the head office in Gothenburg and report to the Managing Director, Thomas Nordberg. Lars will remain involved in the Club’s reinsurance activities, corporate projects and continue his important coordinating role for the Club in relation to the International Group of P&I Clubs.
Managing Director Thomas Nordberg explains: “As a committed mutual Club, we are gearing up the organisation to be ready for future challenges and opportunities. These important management moves are a part of these ambitions. We are an international marine insurance company serving our members and developing our business in key areas. Enabling our regional teams to deliver the highest levels of business experience and expertise to their markets means that we can be sure of offering our members and business partners the best marine insurance solutions.
“To take care of current members, create new partnerships and maximise the potential for future business growth, we need to be close to our shipowners and brokers. Over time and as we grow as a company, the quality of the support network that we deliver - seamlessly interfacing the work of our regional teams with our head office in Gothenburg - will be key to enhancing our collective offerings to our members," he added.
OSM Maritime and Thome to merge to strengthen position as a world leader within ship management
OSM Maritime Group and Thome Group have agreed to a merger of the two companies. By joining forces, the companies will be building an even stronger platform on which they will continue to deliver world-class ship management services to their customers and continue to improve. The combined company will be named OSM Thome.
“By joining our resources in OSM Thome, we will become an even better partner to our customers. With our emphasis on safe and efficient operations as well as innovation, our ambition is to make the combined company even more relevant and attractive to customers, employees, and seafarers. Our companies are a good match in terms of expertise and capacity, and we share a common agenda on important areas such as digitalisation, cyber security and green shipping,” says Finn Amund Norbye, Group CEO of OSM Maritime Group.
Both OSM Maritime and Thome are deeply rooted in the Norwegian shipping tradition and expertise, and they combine this with the modern drive of Asian business enterprise. The headquarters of the combined company will be located in Arendal, Norway, with strong technical management hubs maintained in Singapore and Europe.
“Together, the two companies have a total of 32,000 employees, whereof 2,000 onshore in 22 countries, representing a diversity of expertise and experience. It is the people that enable us to deliver top quality and sustainable solutions to our customers. We operate across all the world's oceans, and the efforts of our 30,000 seafarers are key for the position we have gained within international shipping,” says Olav Nortun, Group CEO of Thome Group.
Today, the two companies manage 1,000 ships, whereof 450 ships on full technical management, and have 550 ships on crew management. Many of the world’s leading shipping companies are customers of OSM and Thome, and the fleet consists of different segments such as tank, bulk, container, car carriers, cruise ships and offshore vessels and units.
Completion of the merger of the two companies is conditional upon approval from competition authorities, which is anticipated during the first quarter of 2023. Until the merger has been formally approved, the two companies will operate as before, with separate management and organisations.
OSM Maritime’s CEO Finn Amund Norbye will assume the role as CEO for the merged OSM Thome, while Thome’s CEO, Olav Nortun, will take up the position of COO for the consolidated ship management activities. OSM founder Bjørn Tore Larsen will become Chairman of the new Board of Directors and Thome’s Claes Eek Thorstensen will be the Vice Chairman.
UK’s top port for port-centrics for logistics potential ranked as Port of Liverpool
The Port of Liverpool has been ranked as the UK’s top port for port-centric logistics potential in a new industry study.
Property adviser Knight Frank analysed and ranked 41 UK ports based on 13 criteria, assessing their potential for future logistics investment and development, in its latest Future Gazing report.
The Port of Liverpool topped its table, after the port ranked first for forecast export growth and was placed in the top ten percent for access to consumer markets, skilled labour, availability of land, port capacity, import growth potential and size of the existing logistics market.
Peel Ports Group Commercial Director Stephen Carr said: ““We’ve long argued that the Port of Liverpool is one of the UK’s best-located ports, and we have built on that with significant investment over many years to create jobs and enable more efficient supply chains.
“These benefits have been greatly enhanced recently by confirmation from the Government that the Liverpool City Region has gained final Freeport status approval, meaning the benefits for supply chains locating to the region are even greater than ever”.
Knight Frank researched each port’s potential role in shortening supply chains and mitigating supply disruption.
Its report looked into 13 different categories including a port’s capacity, connectivity, as well as the overall investment at the site and import and export growth potential.
The Port of Liverpool received the highest overall score in its rankings.
Peel Ports has made significant investment at the port in recent years, building on the completion of Liverpool2 – a £400 million deep-water container terminal. The report also recognised the importance of the port’s grain terminal to the UK’s agri bulk industry.
The location of the port is of strategic importance to major importers and exporters of goods as it offers unrivalled connectivity to Ireland and access to a catchment area of over 35 million people.
“K” LINE and KEPCO team on joint study of liquefied CO2 shipping for developing CCS value chain
Kawasaki Kisen Kaisha, Ltd. (“K” LINE) has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on the joint study of liquefied CO2 shipping for developing Carbon dioxide Capture and Storage (CCS) value chain with The Kansai Electric Power Co., Inc. (KEPCO) today.
The two companies will jointly study optimal marine transportation schemes and shipping costs of liquefied CO2 emitted from KEPCO’s thermal power plants and aim to develop the CCS value chain in future.
CCS is a technology for capturing and storing CO2 and is expected to play an important role in contributing to the achievement of Carbon Neutrality by 2050. This joint study will investigate the method of liquefied CO2 marine transportation, which are suitable for long-distance and large-scale transportation and develop a more flexible CCS value chain.
“K” LINE is participating in the New Energy and Industrial Technology Development Organization (NEDO) CO2 ship transport demonstration project (MOL large-scale LCO2 carrier design pictured) and the Northern Lights project in Norway, the world's first full-scale CCS project, and is developing safe and reliable liquefied CO2 transport in the new CCS market.
NAVTOR commits to collaborative future with Smart Maritime Network
NAVTOR has been announced as the latest industry leader to join the Smart Maritime Network (SMN). The Norway-headquartered technology specialist, the world’s largest distributor of ENCs and a pioneer of innovative e-Navigation and fleet performance solutions, has accepted an invitation to join SMN’s Smart Maritime Council. This will see the team working with fellow members, such as DNV, ABB, Inmarsat, and P&O Maritime Logistics, amongst others, with the aim of contributing towards greater industry collaboration, enhanced data sharing, and the sustainable evolution of maritime’s digital economy.
“It was an instant ‘yes’,” says NAVTOR CEO Tor Svanes (pictured), when referring to SMN’s invitation. “We’ve grown to take a leading position over the past ten years by listening to industry stakeholders, understanding their challenges, and then working as one to develop solutions tailored for their needs. We see SMN’s approach as an extension of that. It’s all about partnership: working together to unlock benefits and support the on-going, safe and sustainable development of the entire industry.”
Svanes adds: “It’s a really exciting opportunity to interact with other technology leaders, discussing how we can share insights, innovations and help feed our collective expertise into the development of new standards and regulations. There are clear challenges on the horizon, but also huge opportunities. By taking a more ‘joined-up’ approach, I believe we can turn many of the former into the latter. This is Smart shipping in action.”
The first task for NAVTOR will be a SMN conference and council meeting in Rotterdam on 15 February, meeting other segment leaders, networking, and discussing how to help diverse stakeholders navigate an increasingly data-enabled, interconnected and rapidly transforming shipping industry.
“We’re delighted to welcome NAVTOR on board,” said Rob O’Dwyer, Chief Network Officer, Smart Maritime Network and Chairman of the Smart Maritime Council. “As a proven industry leader in developing systems to support the collection, display and exchange of vessel navigation and performance data, the company will add significant additional maritime digital expertise to the group, something their fellow Council Members will appreciate and benefit from.”
“The maritime world cannot transform in isolation; we must adapt to a digital future together and a shared approach to data is fundamental to our shared success. In partnership with businesses like NAVTOR, SMN aims to support that process by providing a neutral platform for industry collaboration. We look forward to a bright future together.”
NAVTOR has products and services on more than 8,000 vessels around the world. In addition to ENC distribution, the company offers a pioneering ‘ecosystem’ of integrated solutions, including NavStation (the world’s first digital chart table, with advanced modules including highly automated Passage Planning and Auto-routeing) and NavFleet, which securely shares vessel data with onshore teams for real-time monitoring, management, and performance optimization.
NAVTOR opened its doors in 2011 and now offers a network of ten global offices, 20 international distributors and customers from over 60 countries.
Seatrade Maritime Logistics Middle East to put digitalisation in focus
Held under the patronage of the UAE Ministry of Energy and Infrastructure, Seatrade Maritime Logistics Middle East, the flagship event of the UAE Maritime Week, will put digitalisation in the maritime industry under the spotlight. The conference and exhibition is scheduled to be held on 16-18 May, 2023, at the Dubai World Trade Centre.
The event will bring together some of the leading tech-solution providers from all around the world to enlighten the attendees about the benefits of using modern tools, and how they can revolutionise the industry. It will serve as the ideal platform to find solutions for operational challenges, environmental issues, and ever-increasing functional costs.
“ABS is well positioned and continues to make the right investments in people, systems and technologies to drive and shape the future of Class in the Middle East region. We continue to make significant investments in digital technologies to advance safety and operational excellence in tandem with the industry’s decarbonisation and sustainability ambitions, while moving towards a more condition-based approach to Class”, said Chris Greenwood, ABS Regional Director of Business Development, Middle East & Africa.
“I am looking forward to attending Seatrade Maritime Logistics Middle East, and have some interactive discussions around the energy transition, new technologies trends, and regulatory compliance,” Greenwood added.
In line with the IMO’s goal of reducing GHG emissions by 50 per cent by 2050, Seatrade Maritime Logistics Middle East has placed decarbonisation at the top of its agenda. Advanced digital solutions will play a vital role in helping the sector achieve this target.
Highlighting how technology can help the sector decarbonise, Scott Middleton, Regional Sales Director, Inmarsat said: “Optimising and decarbonising ships require a variety of technologies. IoT-based ship-to-shore connectivity enables owners and operators to enhance fleet utilisation, streamline commercial processes and reduce CO2 emissions with full transparency.
“Using the Inmarsat IoT platform Fleet Data, for example, ship emissions data is collected, stored, and uploaded for monitoring and analysis in real-time, allowing owners and operators to demonstrate and document the effectiveness of their carbon emissions strategies.”
Speaking on how Seatrade Maritime Logistics Middle East will play a key role in bringing solution providers and seekers together to digitalise the industry, Chris Morley (pictured), Group Director, Seatrade Maritime said: “These are exciting yet challenging times as the world, including the shipping industry, is evolving at a rapid pace. SMLME will play an integral role in providing a platform for the key opportunities to be explored and exploited by the region’s fantastic maritime network.
“Whilst focussing on a broad spectrum of content at the 2023 event, decarbonisation and digitalisation will be at the centre of this next edition of our event. We believe that we will be able to effectively march towards our ambitious goals by discussing the main roadblocks facing the sector and deriving realistic solutions to our problems. Therefore, stepping into a greener and technologically advanced industry.”
Registration for the event is open at https://register.visitcloud.com/survey/1og79ccg91rjb?actioncode=EXHB1,
KVH introduces new enterprise-grade cybersecurity and email services for mariners
KVH Industries is introducing two new value-added services for commercial vessels and fleets: KVH Managed Firewall, providing an added level of protection against cyber threats; and KVH Cloud Email, a reliable, secure email solution allowing commercial seafarers to send and retrieve email over any available data connection. Both services are compatible with KVH’s TracNet™ hybrid terminals and TracPhone® VSAT-only terminals.
“The introduction of these two value-added services, KVH Managed Firewall and Cloud Email, reflect KVH’s ongoing commitment to bringing new features and options to our customers,” says Mark Woodhead, KVH’s Executive Vice President of Sales and Marketing. “Integrated seamlessly with our innovative TracNet and TracPhone systems, these services offer new benefits and expanded capabilities to improve shipboard operations, fleet efficiency, and crew wellbeing,”
The KVH Managed Firewall Service provides industry-leading Fortinet® cybersecurity to vessels requiring an enhanced level of protection against cyber threats. Designed to complement the terminal-level security found in every TracNet hybrid terminal and TracPhone VSAT-only antenna, the service provides an advanced array of cybersecurity services for a single, all-inclusive monthly subscription per vessel.
Services include advanced firewall, basic routing, SD-WAN functionality, application-level controls, IPSEC/SSL VPN capabilities, intrusion detection and prevention, advanced malware protection, web and application filtering, and antispam capabilities. The AC-powered belowdecks unit is compact and designed for easy installation and integration with KVH TracNet and TracPhone terminals.
Fleets seeking to offer secure email access to vessels can quickly deploy the KVH Cloud Email Service to provide vital connectivity, allowing users to stay in touch with loved ones on shore, receive business communications, and manage personal affairs both at sea and in port. The service stores emails in a secure cloud-based mailbox (10 GB storage per user) and automatically blocks spam and malware.
The KVH Manager website offers fleet ICT departments secure tools to set up user accounts for each vessel and crew member, manage user access, and monitor data usage. Mariners can use computers, tablets, or smartphones to receive, read, send, and delete emails, and the service supports major email clients including IMAP, POP, and SMTP. The service is available for a single monthly subscription per fleet.
KVH Managed Firewall and KVH Cloud Email are the latest additions to KVH’s growing suite of value-added services for maritime communications, joining popular options such as KVH Elite™ unlimited streaming, and KVH Link, a leading digital news and entertainment experience for crew wellbeing.
Jiangnan Shipyard to install Silverstream® System on LNGC series for ADNOC Logistics & Services (L&S)
Clean technology company Silverstream Technologies has signed an agreement with CSSC Jiangnan Shipyard Group Co. Ltd to supply its market-leading air lubrication technology, the Silverstream® System, on the newbuild LNG carrier programme being constructed for Abu Dhabi National Oil Company Logistics & Services (L&S).
The proven performance of the Silverstream® System will deliver a 5-10% net fuel burn and CO2 emissions reduction for an initial six new 175,000cbm LNGCs in the programme. The vessels are also the first LNGCs set to be built at Jiangnan Shipyard and will be among the first Chinese-built LNGCs fitted with an air lubrication technology. The first six ships in the series are expected to be delivered in 2025 and 2026.
Silverstream’s verified air lubrication technology improves efficiency by generating a uniform carpet of microbubbles across the full flat bottom of a vessel. The air carpet reduces the friction between the hull and the water and is effective in all sea states.
While the technology is suited to almost all segments in shipping, LNGCs are particularly strong candidates for the Silverstream® System because of their hull form and large flat bottom. Installing the Silverstream® System on ADNOC Logistics & Services' (L&S) new LNGCs will improve their overall environmental performance and enable greater operational flexibility for the vessels.
Noah Silberschmidt, Founder & CEO, Silverstream Technologies, said: “We’re pleased to be able to announce this deal with CSSC Jiangnan Shipyard CO. Ltd for ADNOC Logistics & Services, which further cements our strong position within the LNG segment. Partnering with ADNOC Logistics & Services (L&S) to install our Silverstream® System on these vessels will help to create a new benchmark for LNGC efficiency, and reinforces the maturity of our technology as a verified fuel and emissions reduction solution.
“We look forward to further collaboration with the CSSC Group of shipyards via our Shanghai office, to allow more owners access to the technology and ensure a smooth integration and commissioning process.”
GAC North America opens new office in Seattle
Seattle, Washington, United States, 19 January 2023 – GAC North America - Shipping has opened its new office in Seattle, Washington, to support its growing customer base with a presence in the Pacific Northwest.
The Seattle office, which will be GAC's 20th office in the United States, will provide ship agency, husbandry, and protecting agency services, drawing on the GAC Group's global experience in providing integrated shipping, logistics, and marine services.
“Opening an office in the Pacific Northwest has been a long-term goal for GAC,” says Darren Martin, Managing Director of GAC North America – Shipping. “As our business in the region has grown, now is the right time to make this key addition to our agency network.”
Operations at the office will be overseen by Craig Wear, a 15-year veteran in vessel agencies and management.
Prior to joining GAC, Wear worked for a leading local ship agency as their Director of Operations out of their offices in Seattle and Bellingham, Washington. He will bring extensive knowledge and experience of the industry and the local area to the role.
GAC North America provides extensive ship agency services throughout the United States covering a wide range of sectors, including dry bulk, general cargo, tankers, offshore oil and gas, LNG, LPG, ro-ro and cruise.
Hugo Wynn-Williams joins MLOCS Board of Trustees
Maritime London Officer Cadet Scholarship (MLOCS) is pleased to announce that Hugo Wynn-Williams was unanimously elected as a new Trustee on and with effect from 18 January 2023.
MLOCS Board of Trustees Chairman Tony Vlasto said: “Hugo brings a wealth of experience from his long and successful career in the insurance sector. He is the President of Thomas Miller Bermuda and the former Chairman of the Thomas Miller Holdings Board, having served from June 2009 until he stepped down in June 2021”.
Hugo Wynn-Williams said: "I am honoured to have been appointed to the Trustee Board of MLOCS and look forward to working with and supporting the Charity's Board in its aim to raise funds to train the next generation of Merchant Navy Officers and using my energies to that crucial end.”
Since joining Thomas Miller in 1978, Hugo Wynn-Williams held a variety of positions within Thomas Miller and the UK Club, including serving as Chief Executive Officer of the UK Club from 2004 to 2018, as well as Chairman of the International Group of P&I Clubs from November 2015 to November 2018.
He was the Chairman of the reinsurance sub-committee of the International Group of P&I Clubs, between 2010 and 2016, providing oversight over the annual placement of the IG P&I Clubs' reinsurance contract - the largest marine reinsurance contract in the world.
Tony Vlasto commented: “Thomas Miller have long been MLOCS supporters – and their latest cadet has recently passed his final Oral Exam in order to complete his training and become a certificated Deck Officer. MLOCS Trustee Board much look forward to working with Hugo in the future.”
Stunning launch reception augurs well for a record-breaking LISW23 in September
It is full steam ahead for LISW23 following last night’s sparkling Launch Reception at the impressive office of Norton Rose Fulbright (NRF), overlooking the London skyline. Over 200 guests – including the UK’s Maritime Minister, top Government officials, industry leaders, Sponsors, Supporting Organisations, and the press – celebrated the launch of the 10th Anniversary of LISW, indicating that September’s event should break all attendance records.
Simon Hartley, Senior Partner of NRF, Denis Petropoulos, Chair of the LISW23 Board of Advisors, and Baroness Vere of Norbiton, the UK’s Maritime Minister, made enthusiastically positive speeches, but the evening was stolen by a hugely appreciated pre-recorded video by Dr Nikolas Tsakos, President and CEO of the Tsakos Group and sponsor of the LISW23 Headline Conference at the International Maritime Organization, who battled against the windy Greek weather to express his passion for LISW.
With an anticipated 400+ individual events run by over 100 Sponsors and more than 100 Supporting Organisations – as well as charities and Government departments – LISW23 is already well on course to be by far the biggest and most popular in its 10-year history.
LNG to play a leading role in the energy transition, ABS chief tells USCG leaders
The critical role of LNG in meeting shipping’s decarbonization goals was detailed by Christopher J. Wiernicki, ABS Chairman, President and CEO in a keynote speech to U.S. Coast Guard (USCG) leaders at the Liquefied Gas and Alternative Fuels Senior Executive Forum.
“We are going to have to begin to balance what we're facing today, which is, essentially, how do we handle energy security relative to the short-term energy security challenge and the longer-term energy transition? LNG is going to play a leading role in this. However, for such a key fuel for the energy transition, it is important to recognize it is itself a fuel in transition. And we will need it to not only evolve but to address and mitigate the risks inherent in its operation today if we are to reach our 2050 objectives,” said Wiernicki.
He outlined how an LNG vessel had a decade longer in its operational lifespan than an identical traditionally fueled vessel, but methane slip represents a significant challenge and after treatment technologies are still in development. However, the great potential of LNG to contribute to decarbonization objectives in the long-term is realized through bio-LNG and carbon capture.
Wiernicki said: “Another challenge LNG has to contend with is the carbon content at its core. Here too we can expect to see significant developments. Liquefied biomethane, or bio-LNG, a carbon neutral fuel produced from sustainable biomass resources, has the potential to meet a significant portion of future shipping energy demand. Not only can bio-LNG be used as a drop-in fuel in existing LNG-fueled engines but it can also be transported, stored and bunkered in ports using the existing LNG infrastructure.
“But this is just the beginning of LNG’s potential to further contribute to the energy transition. The feedstock of blue hydrogen is methane after steam reforming, when the CO2 produced in the process is captured. While we are scaling up global production of zero carbon green hydrogen, blue hydrogen and by extension LNG, will have a critical role in filling the gap.”
Short Sea boost for London Thamesport
The range of short sea container services available from Hutchison Ports London Thamesport is to be increased following the announcement by Viasea Shipping of a new service from the South East UK port.
Commenting on the new sailing, Mark Taylor, Director, London Thamesport, said: “London Thamesport is already well established as one of the leading short sea container ports in the South East of England and offers excellent service levels in both quayside and landside operations. We are delighted that Viasea Shipping has chosen Thamesport as its gateway into the region.
“The addition of their UK-Norway service complements the regular and reliable connections we already have to Northern and Southern Europe. We look forward to working with them over the coming years to increase the range, frequency and reliability of options for shippers.”
Morten Pettersen, Managing Director of Viasea said: “The south of UK has significant volumes of import/export to Northern Europe and Baltic region. Adding a call at London Thamesport will allow us to assist UK shippers and receivers to reduce their reliance on the heavily congested Channel crossings and will allow greater predictability for deliveries. It will also offer a greener route reducing the distances travelled by road as we bring our vessel closer to the market in this region.”
Norwegian-owned Viasea Shipping, established in 2016, is an independent short sea operator connecting Norway with the UK, Europe and the Baltic states. The new service from London Thamesport will call weekly with connections to Moerdijk and the Norwegian ports of Oslo, Moss and Kristiansand, with onward connections into the Baltic and Poland.
Canada accepts amendments to expand IMO Council
Canada has become the latest country to accept amendments to the Convention on the International Maritime Organization (IMO) which will expand the size of the Council from its current 40 members to 52, extend the term of its Members to in general a four-year term, and recognize three additional language texts as authentic versions of the Convention.
The Honourable Ms. Marie Marie-Claude Bibeau (pictured, tp right), Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food, deposited Canada's instrument of acceptance with IMO Secretary-General Kitack Lim during a visit to IMO on 19 January.
The amendments have now been accepted by eight States: Canada, Honduras, Malaysia, Malta, the Netherlands, Norway, Singapore and Spain. The amendments were adopted at the 32nd session of the IMO Assembly held in December 2021. They require acceptance by two thirds of the IMO Membership (117 Member States based on the current number of 175 Member States) for entry into force.
The three additional languages for IMO texts will be Arabic, Chinese and Russian – all already official languages of the current Organization – supplementing the existing English, French and Spanish.
Sea Asia 2023 returns 25–27 April with visitor registration now open
Organised by Informa Markets and Singapore Maritime Foundation, Sea Asia is recognised globally as a leading platform for the maritime industry to interact, explore business opportunities, hear the latest insights, and source new products and services. This year’s event will take place at Marina Bay Sands, Singapore from 25-27 April.
Since its inception in 2007, Sea Asia has grown exponentially to position itself as the leading maritime business event in Asia for industry players seeking to establish a footprint by penetrating the dynamic and growing port centred in Singapore.
Past editions of Sea Asia have consistently welcomed in-person participation of close to 15,000 international participants from over 70 countries/ regions with more than 400 exhibitors.
Sea Asia 2023 features a brand new and exciting show floor filled with dedicated zones, a solution-oriented academy, and top-level networking for trade professionals.
Registration for free visitor access to Sea Asia 2023 is open now on the event website.
Bearing AI data predicts over half of global fleet in danger of receiving a failing CII score
Just over half of all the vessels in the world fleet are in danger of failing with their first CII (Carbon Intensity Indicator) score at the end of the year, according to a new report by software provider Bearing, which has used AI to determine how CII (Carbon Intensity scores are likely to stack up.
Bearing says its deep-learning platform ingested a vast range of real-world maritime data, including historical weather patterns and positional satellite tracking, and analysed the voyages of over 15,000 vessels during the past year to predict CII scores, suggesting more vessels are likely to receive failing D or E grades requiring corrective action than previously thought.
Key findings include that:
• 51.9% of the global fleet will receive a failing CII score (D or E)
• LNG tankers will receive the best initial rankings
• General cargo carriers will receive the worst
Bearing CEO and co-founder Dylan Keil says that the company’s discussions with ship owners suggest that most vessels will likely resort to slow steaming to meet their CII goals.
The company provides AI-powered software that it says ship owners and managers can use to predict CII ratings in advance with ease and extreme accuracy, allowing them to make data-backed decisions to bring every vessel into compliance. See the report here.
New UK Maritime Minister Baroness Vere unveils her key priorities at LISW23 launch event
London International Shipping Week 2023 (LISW23) was delighted to welcome the new Maritime Minister Baroness Charlotte Vere to its launch event held at the London offices of Norton Rose Fulbright last week, attended by some 220 guests from across all UK and international maritime sectors.
In one of her first public speeches in her new role, Baroness Vere pledged to put maritime “front and centre” in Government, highlighting her three key priorities for UK maritime as: economic prosperity, decarbonisation and seafarer protection.
Maritime Minister Baroness Vere said: “British leadership in maritime matters, and London International Shipping Week is a unique opportunity to put our talents in the spotlight and show the world just how much the UK has to offer.
“I look forward to 2023’s 10-year anniversary event which marks a renewed and reinvigorated effort to champion our world class maritime sector to the world, along with a commitment to promote the boundless opportunities for UK wide growth and investment that come with it.”
Denis Petropoulos, chair of the LISW23 Board of Advisors, said LISW is “where the United Kingdom, together with its traditional maritime institutions, with their rich history and long experience in maritime and offshore services, will showcase many of their world-leading maritime offerings.”
Outlining the themes for this year’s events he said: “LISW23 will focus on ‘Reframing Risk in a Complex Market’, covering the topical issues of compliance, decarbonisation, security, human resources, business and technology – to name but a few. And with this comes the commercial realities of managing and operating daily global seaborne trade of essential commodities which cannot simply be reset to suit social and political demands. Actually it cannot stop at any time as shipping services billions of customers on our planet every day.”
Welcoming guess on behalf of host Norton Rose Fulbright, Simon Hartley, global co-head of NRF’s shipping group, noted how important LISW has become in the international maritime calendar. “LISW has discouraged complacency in UK maritime and enabled it to meet the challenges from other spheres,” he said. “We are extremely grateful for the LISW initiative. It keeps the UK maritime sector on the front foot.”
Joining via satellite link from Greece where he declared the blustery day to be “London weather”, ship owner Dr Nikolas Tsakos, described how he has been an “enthusiastic supporter of London International Shipping Week, since its start in 2013.
Dr Tsakos, CEO of Tsakos Energy Navigation, stressed it was important for London to “maintain its dominance as a major shipping hub”.
London International Shipping Week 2023 will take place from September 11 to 15 throughout various locations in London and the UK. The LISW23 Headline Conference will be held at the London headquarters of the International Maritime Organization on Wednesday 13 Sept, while the glittering gala dinner on Thursday 14 Sept is hosted for the first time beside the River Thames at ‘Evolution London’ in Battersea Park and is scheduled to go on late into the night. For further information about LISW23, including event details, sponsorship opportunities and delegate guidance please see the dedicated website: www.londoninternationalshippingweek.com
CSM Saudi Arabia sees ABS certification as underlining its commitment to quality
The Columbia Group’s Saudi Arabia office has underlined its total commitment to service quality by becoming the first company in the Kingdom to be awarded the ABS HSQE Certificate of Company Compliance.
The recognition certifies that CSM Saudi Arabia complies with the Health, Safety, Quality & Environmental requirements of the ABS Guide for Marine Health, Safety, Quality, Environmental and Energy Management.
It also compliments Columbia’s vision in Saudi Arabia to offer the highest quality operation through robust management systems and governance, using the latest in optimised and digitised technology, as well as investing in local human capital and forging business partnerships based on trust, transparency and openness.
Through its presence in the Kingdom, CSM Saudi Arabia blends its core values and philosophies with the local culture, requirements, norms and practices, always in line with the Saudi Vision 2030.
At a certification award ceremony in Al Khobar, KSA, George Vassiliades, CSM Managing Director Gulf Region, welcomed the awarding of the certificate, adding: “We would like to thank ABS for the partnership and collaboration. The milestone that we celebrate today was jointly achieved, just like the many more milestones that will follow. We believe in our common goals and vision, and remain confident that together we will grow stronger, achieve more, and add further value to the industry, the Kingdom and the Region.”
Capt Hristo Stoyanov, CSM Saudi Arabia QSHE-Marine Manager/DPA/CSO/ECO, said that being the first company in the Kingdom to have obtained the HSQE Company Compliance Certificate “really reflects Columbia’s strong commitment to high quality standards and continuous compliance. We are hopeful that others will follow our example and embrace the journey to continuous improvement and excellence.”
Daniel Ilteris, ABS Regional Director of Operations for Middle East & Africa, said: “The ABS Middle East Operations team are so pleased to have worked with our partners at Columbia Ship Management to be the first company in Saudi Arabia to attain the Certificate of Company Compliance with ABS’ HSQE requirements. We are delighted to be able to support forward-thinking clients achieve operational, environmental and safety excellence.”
<caption>
Mr George Vassiliades (CSM Managing Director Gulf Region), Mr Syed Anwar (ABS Principal Surveyor in charge Saudi Arabia)
-Ends-
Thome Group transfers 100 ships to Marlink’s hybrid network to streamline digital operations
Smart solutions company Marlink has signed an agreement to provide hybrid network connectivity services to at least 100 ships operated by shipmanager Thome Group. The contract will guarantee that the vessels are equipped with Marlink’s high speed VSAT service as well as L-band back-up to ensure flexible guaranteed bandwidth at all times.
Based in Singapore, the Thome Group is a global provider of integrated ship management, as well as offshore management, oil and gas marine services and crewing – offering a complete range of services and products under one roof with about 200 vessels under full technical management.
Thome selected Marlink as the trusted provider to streamline and harmonise data services across the fleet, accelerating its digitalisation strategy and collecting business critical operational data required for smart vessel operations. The new contract also ensures that Thome managed vessels have sufficient bandwidth to keep crew connected with family and friends.
Central to its decision to consolidate its connectivity strategy, Thome sought a global provider with a future-proof strategy, reflecting Marlink’s agreements to provide new LEO and MEO services as part of its hybrid solutions, enabling Thome to utilise Marlink’s digital services portfolio in the near future.
By choosing Marlink as provider, Thome can also tailor the service offered to each shipping company from a variety of service levels. Key to providing this new standard of connectivity for Thome Group is Marlink’s use of a flexible Committed Information Rate (CIR) to deploy guaranteed bandwidth which can be adjusted based on the vessel's data demand.
“Marlink is delighted to be Thome Group’s newest partner for critical connectivity solutions, enabling the company’s digital operations strategy,” said Tore Morten Olsen, President, Maritime, Marlink. “We look forward to helping Thome create a leaner, more agile fleet, able to work with complete flexibility and achieve higher efficiency.”
“Thome’s reputation with its customers rests on our ability to present the most innovative solutions in ways that can be easily adopted regardless of ship type or trading pattern,” said Say Toon Foo, Vice President IT, Thome Group. “This agreement with Marlink is a further step on a digitalisation journey that will help our customers realise the benefits of digitalisation on a standardised platform.”
RINA enters US infrastructure market with acquisition of Patrick Engineering
RINA, the Inspection, Certification and Engineering consultancy multinational, has announced the acquisition of the entire share capital of Patrick Engineering Ltd., the Chicago-based engineering consultancy company active in Infrastructure, Transport and Renewable Energy. With a turnover of approximately 82 million dollars and 340 employees in 19 offices mainly located in the North-East of the US, Patrick Engineering will be fully integrated into RINA Consulting, the subsidiary of the RINA Group operating in the engineering sector.
The acquisition is aligned with RINA’s strategy to grow both organically and via acquisitions and further strengthens the Group’s geographic footprint which already has a presence in the largest markets worldwide. As well as adding competencies across the Group, the continued international expansion represents a further step in the implementation of RINA’s plan and also positions the Group to better support international and local clients in large overseas projects.
Ugo Salerno (pictured, right), Chairman and CEO at RINA, says: “The acquisition of Patrick Engineering and the combined expertise of the new organization represents a unique opportunity for expansion and growth in the thriving North American Infrastructure market. It establishes an excellent platform not only in this sector, but also to grow all RINA’s businesses to make the US one of RINA’s main hubs. RINA will gain leverage to export its highly specialized competencies in materials, lab testing and innovative technology.”
Daniel Patrick Dietzler (left), Founder of Patrick Engineering, commented: “Our companies complement one another, and our clients and staff will benefit from this acquisition. We will accelerate our growth in new sectors and broaden our expertise. We have a strong client portfolio split between the government and the private sector including transit agencies in major cities and investor-owned utilities and heavy industries across North America. Through RINA’s international network we will gain expertise, particularly in offshore wind, high speed rail and other emerging areas of experience our clients are asking for.”
Founded in 1979, Patrick Engineering, which will remain as a brand part of the RINA Group, has a strong local presence, high-quality service portfolio, and respected technical capabilities. It offers a full spectrum of services and competes successfully on its ability to perform work in a timely and efficient manner in the sectors it serves, which include Renewables, Infrastructures and Transport. With the acquisition, the service portfolio as a whole will be stronger and position the company as a significant player in the engineering sector in North America.
Among Patrick Engineering’s notable references:
• Program and Construction Manager on the MBTA’s (Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority) Red/Orange Line Transformation Program. The total value of the project is $1.2 Billion.
• Technical consulting and program management services for AEP (American Electric Power) Ohio. The total value of the project is $650 Million.
• Project management, project controls and risk management for the Advanced Photon Source Upgrade (APSU) of Energy’s Argonne National Laboratory project which aims to develop the most powerful multi-bending achromat in the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) complex. The total value of the project is $700 Million.
“Patrick Engineering’s prominent position in the US energy, infrastructure and transportation sectors, combined with RINA’s strong multi-sectorial expertise, particularly in sustainability and energy transition, presents an ideal opportunity to make a significant contribution to projects facilitated by the current bipartisan US Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act” concludes Salerno.
Global Strategy assisted RINA during all phases of the acquisition as M&A advisor, in collaboration with AMA International of New York. RINA was also supported by PwC Italia, which assisted RINA in the commercial, technological, financial and tax due diligence as well as in the finalization of the deal. Mayer Brown acted as legal counsel to RINA in connection with the transaction.
Oriani Hellas partners with Scrufy to introduce first Greek autonomous hull-cleaning robot BlueBOT
Maritime digital transformation company Oriani Hellas has partnered with Scrufy – a highly-innovative Greek tech company that provides custom-built automation solutions to multiple industries and software solutions for the public and private sector. Scrufy has created the first Greek autonomous hull-grooming robot – BlueBOT.
BlueBOT is designed to aid the decarbonization of the shipping industry through preventing the accumulation of biofouling on hull surface. The autonomous robot attaches to the hull of a vessel magnetically and grooms the surface before it becomes a full-blown operational setback for the ship. In addition to its grooming capabilities, BlueBOT also collects data and generates reports on the state of the hull and the effectiveness of the grooming process. This allows shipping companies to stay on top of any potential biofouling issues and make informed decisions to maintain the performance and efficiency of their vessels.
This innovative solution will not only increase the efficiency and safety of the hull grooming process but also contribute to the shipping industry's goal of reducing its environmental impact by reducing drag and saving enormous amounts of fuel.
Oriani Hellas and Scrufy are excited to bring their solution to the market and say they look forward to working with shipping companies to improve their operations and reduce their environmental impact.
“Oriani prides itself on identifying the most innovative digital solutions to represent within the maritime industry, ones that truly deliver value to shipping companies on their voyage of digital transformation,” said Mr John Vandoros, Business Development Director of Oriani Hellas. “BlueBOT and the state-of-the-art technology that it contains represents not only the huge potential within robotics, but how that potential can be harnessed and delivered in the real-world to achieve actual change.”
"Our partnership with Oriani marks the beginning of a new commercial chapter for Scrufy and our revolutionary product, BlueBOT,” commented Mr Nick Arapkoules, Managing Director of Scrufy PC. “Given the significant opportunity for OPEX reduction provided by our solution, we believe that BlueBOT will soon be the preferred choice of the shipping industry for biofouling management and reporting.”
NorthStandard on schedule for February launch
North and Standard Club have received all the required formal approvals to finalise their merger and establish NorthStandard on 20 February 2023 as one of the world’s largest providers of mutual maritime cover.
North and Standard Club have received legal, regulatory and competition approvals from the relevant authorities ahead of their proposed merger on 20 February 2023. With members of both clubs having approved the creation of NorthStandard in May 2022, the path is now clear for the merger to proceed as planned.
Upon launch, NorthStandard will immediately become one of the largest providers of mutual cover in the maritime industries, with over 300 years of combined P&I heritage and consolidated annual premiums of approximately US$750 million. It will be led by Jeremy Grose, Standard Club CEO, and Paul Jennings, CEO at North.
“With the formal merger date rapidly approaching, both clubs stand on the cusp of a fantastic opportunity through the formation of NorthStandard,” said Grose. “Thanks to its scale, the organisation will represent a significant new force in marine insurance, delivering the resilience members need from their P&I partner to meet the challenges and seize the opportunities of a rapidly changing shipping world. We are looking forward to working with our members and clients as NorthStandard with broader skills and expertise, product range, global network and financial resilience. The launch on 20 February 2023 means a new name and look for us, but more importantly, even better service, support and cover for our members, brokers and clients worldwide,” he added.
For the 2023/24 Policy Year, members of Standard Club and North will renew into their existing insurance entities, with 2023/24 certificates and documentation retaining current Standard Club and North branding. However, members of both clubs will become corporate members of NorthStandard on 20 February 2023 and have a common NorthStandard policy from 20 February 2024.
“We have been laying the foundations for this service and support to help ensure that NorthStandard delivers greater value, certainty, choice, responsiveness and flexibility, as well as easier access to our unrivalled expertise,“ said Jennings.
Among the many strategic and operational benefits, the merger brings for both North and Standard Club, added Jennings, is an expanded pool of talent.
“Our service-led approach, highly valued by members, hinges on our people. The formation of NorthStandard will support the recruitment and retention of the most talented individuals, helping us to deliver the highest levels of service, drive innovation and identify new opportunities for diversification. NorthStandard is fortunate to have such a strong pool of talent and will be the P&I mutual of choice for people – offering more options, opportunities and flexibility while retaining a long-established family ethos and culture.”
More information on the clubs’ merger plans will be shared in the coming weeks and months and a recent video update from Paul Jennings and Jeremy Grose is available here on the North website and here on the Standard Club website.
Grimaldi Group exercises options for five more ammonia-ready car carriers
The orderbook for the Grimaldi fleet keeps growing. As part of the agreement signed in late October with China Merchants Heavy Industries Jiangsu (a company part of China Merchant Industry Holdings - CMI) for the construction of five new PCTC (Pure Car & Truck Carrier) vessels, the Group exercised the option for another five units. With this operation, the total number of car carriers ordered by the Neapolitan company in less than three months has risen to 15.
The concept of the new buildings was developed by the Grimaldi Group in collaboration with the Knud E. Hansen naval design and architecture studio. With loading capacity of over 9,000 CEU (Car Equivalent Units), they are designed to transport electric vehicles as well as fossil fuel vehicles. They received the Ammonia Ready class notation from RINA (Italian Shipping Register), which certifies that the ships are designed for eventual conversion for the use of ammonia as marine fuel.
These vessels will be equipped with mega lithium batteries, solar panels and shore connection capability (cold ironing), which – where available – constitutes a green alternative to the consumption of fossil fuels during port stays. Other state-of-the-art technologies will be installed on board with the aim of reducing the carbon footprint – these include an air lubrication system, innovative propulsion and optimised hull design. Overall, the new ships will be able to cut fuel consumption by 50% compared to the previous generation of car carrier vessels.
The new PCTCs will be deployed on voyages between Europe, North Africa, and the Near and Far East to meet the new transport needs of automotive industry players.
“Grimaldi is committed to green shipping and will lead further the car shipping transportation field,” stated CMI President Hu Xianpu. “CMI Group will also take the green technology shipbuilding as a new growth point and cooperate with Grimaldi to achieve common long-term development.”
“Thanks for Grimaldi trust in CMI Group, who will mobilize the resource of the whole Group to provide the best service for Grimaldi and build high quality vessels with good delivery time to achieve a win-win situation,” added CMI Vice President Wu Sichuan.
“With our recent orders for the construction of new PCTC vessels, we’ve strengthened our long lasting and fruitful collaboration with China Merchant Industry Holdings,” said Grimaldi Group Managing Director Emanuele Grimaldi. “We’ve also reaffirmed our commitment to our customers, especially the world's leading car manufacturers who continue to reward us with their trust. In this way, we’ll continue to live up to their high expectations and meet their evolving needs, with our offer of increasingly efficient and environmentally sustainable shipping services.
“Ten out of 15 of our newly ordered car carriers will be deployed on the Far East trade and support the increasing development of China’s automotive industry.”
The Neapolitan company is vigorously pursuing the upgrade and renewal of its fleet, which currently counts 130 ships deployed worldwide.
The 10 vessels commissioned from China Merchants Heavy Industries Jiangsu will be delivered between 2025 and 2027. Overall, thanks to its recent investments totaling about USD 2.5 billion, the Group will take delivery of 25 new ultra-modern vessels over the next five years, including 15 ammonia-ready PCTCs (with option for another two units), six G5-class ro-ro multipurpose vessels, two GG5G-class hybrid ro-ro ships and two Superstar-class ro-pax units (for its subsidiary Finnlines).
Harbor Lab’s data-driven Disbursement Accounting Tool helps drive down port costs, delivers impressive ROI
Products and services from Harbor Lab are not only positively impacting clients’ operating costs (OPEX) but also enhancing their productivity and efficiency, reports the Athens-based firm’s CEO and founder Antonis Malaxianakis (pictured).
One company that is benefitting from investing in Harbor Lab’s DA (Disbursement Accounting) Tool is Hamburg-based bulker shipping company TMA Bulk. Operating a fleet of nearly 30 Handysize vessels, its ships have made more than 350 port calls across the globe since the company’s inception in 2020.
With each port call creating considerable paperwork and time-consuming administration, and with limited access to up-to-date official tariff data for the individual ports, TMA Bulk sought to streamline the port call and disbursement accounting processes through Harbor Lab.
TMA Bulk started working with Harbor Lab in May 2022 and since then has seen a return on investment in our DA Tool of more than 9:1 reducing OPEX and providing an accurate and transparent overview of the costs its vessels accrue in port.
Through the DA Tool, ship operators can appoint an agent at a port, compare prices from different vendors and make decisions based on port tariff data that is obtained directly from the port and validated and uploaded into the software by Harbor Lab’s team of data scientists.
In addition to the port tariff discrepancies identified by the software, Harbor Lab’s dedicated disbursement analysis team produces considerable savings and secures discounts on Agency fees and marine services, such as towage costs. By leveraging the total volume of port calls processed through Harbor Lab’s platform, savings can reach on average nine times the amount a company spends on Harbor Lab’s services.
Oliver Harms, managing partner at TMA Bulk, said: “Harbor Lab has really simplified the nomination process of an agent and helps to make sure costs charged in [the] DA are in line with local tariff[s]. Data-driven decisions, such as those realised through our DA Tool, will become increasingly essential in the modern digitalised industry into which shipping is evolving if companies want to retain their competitive edge.
“However, I believe that to gain maximum benefits from software, the relationship between the client and service provider must be supported by a knowledgeable customer services team that stays with the client throughout the duration of the relationship.”
“We enjoy the professionalism of [the] Harbor Lab team,” added Oliver Harms at TMA Bulk, “as well as the easy-to-use web-based platform which really assists us to keep an overview of port calls, pending DA's and other needful data. It reduces our costs and is a direct saving on basically every port call we have.”
Since launching in March 2020, Harbor Lab reports that it has received positive feedback from many other end users of its software, through which more than 10,000 port calls have been processed to date. Clients have reported reduced OPEX costs, reduced administration in the traditionally paper-heavy disbursements process, greater transparency on updated port costs and streamlined disbursements processes using a specially created online platform.
“Ship operators can save valuable time and money, seeing a fast return on investment with Harbor Lab’s e-disbursements platform and outsourcing services,” concluded Mr Harms.
ICS publishes ‘Diversity and Inclusion Toolkit for Shipping’ with first edition out now
The International Chamber of Shipping (ICS) has launched its first publication on diversity and inclusion (D&I) in the maritime industry to aid businesses and organisations with best practice and inspire change in company strategies and policies.
The ICS ‘Diversity and Inclusion Toolkit for Shipping’ has been developed to create awareness and inspire change in the strategies, policies and practices that will enable the maritime industry to meet the needs of the diverse seafarer community. It provides descriptions and definitions; provides ways to assess the current needs of diverse communities and identify gaps in services, policies and practice; and makes suggestions on how to fill these gaps.
This industry-leading publication provides resources and guidance to enable shipping companies to introduce and embrace policies and engage a positive approach to D&I issues, with the ultimate goal of boosting business efficiency and improved performance.
The Diversity and Inclusion Toolkit for Shipping is available to buy at an RRP of £140 in both print and e-book versions and can be ordered using the link order now.
Alfa Laval introduces the marine industry’s first biofuel-ready separators
Biofuels are a current and accessible fuel option that can help marine customers decarbonise. Yet while biofuels reduce CO2 footprint, they also pose new operational challenges. Alfa Laval is first in the market to address them with biofuel-optimized separators and separator upgrades.
Biofuels like HVO (hydrotreated vegetable oil) and FAME (fatty acid methyl ester) can be used by diesel engines without major engine modifications. They can be a carbon-neutral alternative if produced from the right biomass, but they must still be cleaned effectively to prevent performance issues and expensive engine wear. In a marine industry first, Alfa Laval high-speed separators are now compatible with HVO (EN15940) and with FAME (EN14214 or ASTM D6751) blends comprising residual fuel and/or distillate.
“We are proud to support our customers’ decarbonisation journey, no matter which fuel path they take,” says Markus Hoffmann, Global Sales Manager, Marine Separation & Heat Transfer Equipment, Alfa Laval. “Biofuels will be the choice for many marine vessels, but customers must be certain that their equipment is prepared for them. With biofuel-ready separators and cost-efficient biofuel upgrades, Alfa Laval can provide that certainty.”
Biofuels are already in widespread use, and ISO is looking to incorporate them into the 2024 revision of ISO 8217. Nevertheless, they can be prepared in various ways and differ widely in their characteristics – both from conventional fuels and from each other. Because of differences in density, moisture absorption and more, they demand additional care when it comes to fuel storage and treatment.
To ensure optimal biofuel separation, Alfa Laval has modified both internal bowl components and the separator software. This makes setting up for HVO, FAME blends or conventional fuels a simple parameter change. Incorporated into new Alfa Laval separators for purchase, the developments are also available as upgrades for existing separators.
“Optimising for biofuels is nothing that occurs overnight,” says Hoffmann. “Our biofuel-ready separators build on deep fuel insights, extensive research at the Alfa Laval Test & Training Centre and long cooperation with ISO and CIMAC. As biofuels continue to evolve, customers can count on Alfa Laval for efficient engine protection, just as they have with conventional marine fuels.”
Devon shipyard cuts metal on world's first unmanned Fast Rescue Craft
Coastal Workboats has announced a new partnership with Scottish Search and Rescue technology innovator, Zelim. Metal was recently cut for Zelim’s first ‘Guardian Class’ Fast Rescue Craft vessel at Coastal Workboats’ Devon yard.
As a first of its kind, the 8m ‘Guardian Class’ combines Zelim’s innovative Swift Rescue Conveyor with a Fast Rescue Craft that has unmanned operation capability. The two companies signed contracts for the build of the aluminium prototype at the end of 2022.
Time is arguably the most critical factor in successful search and rescue operations. The need to reach the incident location then spot and recover casualties as fast as possible is paramount. Guardian is designed for speed and incorporates Zelim’s two-step recovery system. The system’s real time, AI-based casualty detection can spot and track multiple casualties in the water in all conditions. Once survivors are detected, Zelim’s Swift Rescue Conveyor can recover casualties from the water in a matter of seconds. The technology was trialled and successfully demonstrated to offshore wind industry stakeholders at Race Bank Offshore Wind Farm, off the coast of Grimsby, in May 2022.
Guardian will feature remote command and control capability, making it the world’s first uncrewed rescue vessel. The design is aimed at providing enhanced capability to respond to person overboard incidents and close standby cover for offshore operations. Deploying from a larger vessel offshore, Guardian will be first to arrive on scene to recover casualties and bring them back to the safety of the parent vessel. The technology has already garnered interest from the offshore energy sector, however, could revolutionise emergency response across the maritime industry. This is largely due to the vessel’s capability to respond in conditions usually deemed too dangerous for crewed Fast Rescue Craft.
For Coastal Workboats Director, Brian Pogson, the partnership marks a major step forward in marine safety, with the potential to significantly remap search and rescue possibilities.
“We’re delighted to be working in partnership with a company that shares our focus on finding safe, robust ways for technology and innovation to pave the way for a better, safer future at sea. It’s an exciting time to be exploring the possibilities of what our ever-evolving technology offers and we’re committed to ensuring that it is used to improve and safeguard our industry’s future.”
American oil supermajor chooses Windward to enhance trade compliance processes and mitigate risk in turbulent trading environment
Maritime AI™ company Windward has announced a three-year enterprise contract with one of the world’s largest publicly traded international oil and gas companies. This American supermajor is the most recent partner, alongside Shell and bp, to utilize Windward’s solution to enhance due diligence and to streamline trade compliance processes, empowering them to conduct business as usual in the current precarious oil trading ecosystem.
The ongoing Russia-Ukraine war has seen the introduction of new regulations by the Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) and other Western coalition members, including a price cap on Russian oil which came into effect on December 5th, and an upcoming cap on all Russian oil products set for February 2023. These regulations hold all players in the maritime industry accountable for higher levels of due diligence.
Adding to these complexities, there has been a 319% increase in dark activity connected to Russian oil in 2022 compared to 2021, says Windqard. As such, counterparty due diligence has become a necessity for any stakeholder in the maritime trade industry to make sure they aren’t conducting business with bad actors, particularly those involved in trading oil and clean products.
The company will use Windward’s platform to screen all vessels associated with the company in any capacity, including chartering, procurement, and all activity involving the supermajor’s ports and terminals facilities. Windward’s platform will quickly and effectively verify that potential business partners are not a compliance risk and flag any suspicious behaviour, enabling them to conduct business with confidence.
“We are thrilled to announce that another supermajor has chosen to employ our best-in-class technology for regulatory compliance and risk analysis, a critical step that all oil and gas industry stakeholders should take given recent sanctions and the increased complexity of the trade,” said Ami Daniel, Co-Founder and CEO of Windward. “The current regulatory climate requires all industry stakeholders to take a step into the future and digitalize their due diligence and sanctions compliance processes, and we are proud to facilitate this transformation in the global energy industry.”
Windward’s Maritime AI platform is powered by advanced machine learning and behavioural analytics models, providing customers with insights into vessel behaviours, ownership structures, and company risks, and predicting in real-time which companies and vessels are likely to be high risk. Windward’s solutions enable companies across the maritime trade industry to streamline business operations.
North P&I launches mobile app to ease evidence gathering burden for marine professionals
A new mobile app from North P&I will make collecting evidence on incidents faster, easier and more accurate while enhancing reporting consistency in future claims.
Formally launched to market this week, ‘The MRCE Handbook’ app from North will help senior officers, surveyors and shore-based technical and marine personnel gather evidence quickly and efficiently, using standardised formats on mobile phones and tablets.
The MRCE Handbook app has been developed by North’s in-house Loss Prevention Team using proven methodologies established in The Mariner’s Role in Collecting Evidence Handbook. Published by North, the source Handbook outlines the most commonly occurring incidents and accidents on board ship, offering evidence collection checklists for each. It is widely regarded as a leading reference guide for seafarers.
“Evidence that is gathered and preserved at the time of the incident is invaluable to the resolution of claims and disputes,” said Colin Gillespie (pictured), Director (Loss Prevention), North. “Using digital tools to streamline its collection helps with speed and accuracy, making it more likely that a comprehensive and objective record of events is established. Timely collection reinforces the value of evidence, both for pursuing and defending claims.”
Compatible with iPhones, Androids and tablets, the app is free to access for all North entered Members and Correspondents. It offers clear guidance on best practice in evidence-gathering methods and covers incidents such as those involving people or cargo, those caused by vessels (including pollution), and those relating to H&M claims or commercial disputes.
The MRCE Handbook app is available 24/7, allowing users to generate a checklist based on the types of incident, available evidence and to upload information on each checklist item - online and offline - to generate a standardised report to share with the shipowner or manager. Users can also save incomplete checklists and return to them later to finish the job.
“Once the facts are known, they can be used to demonstrate compliance or determine liability, but also to learn and help prevent similar incidents from happening in the future,” said Mike Salthouse, Global Director (Claims), North. “Establishing what really happened and how it happened is critical and, as well as making it easier for mariners to fulfil evidence-gathering duties, The MRCE Handbook app will also help to base safety recommendations on more accurate evidence.
“Mobile devices are commonly used to capture still, and video images as incidents unfold. Having The MRCE Handbook app to hand will increase awareness that formalised evidence gathering and reporting is also required and can be accomplished more easily than ever before.”
The new app is now available for download to multiple users via a single registration within the MyNorth account Members Area. For further information, see here: https://www.nepia.com/mrce-app
Shipping investment: Will higher steel values mean dry bulk carriers hold their value?
Investors in middle aged dry bulk tonnage may be cheered by the impact of sustained higher recycled steel values, according to research commissioned by the Baltic Exchange.
Analysis of the dry bulk carrier values undertaken by consultancy Zuoz Industrial looks at the potential impact of longer-term higher ship recycling values on five year old tonnage. With recycled steel an increasingly popular choice, thanks to its lower carbon footprint when compared with virgin steel, the paper discusses whether higher steel recycle values are a longer-term trend. Although down 20% since its April 2022 high, the price of lightweight steel is ~$520/ldt and more than double the historic average since 2009.
“Should the current multi-year higher cycle value turn out to be a fundamental risk trend supported by some of the evolving demand factors, the fundamental risk of investing middle aged dry bulk tonnage, particularly in softer freight markets, will have decreased,” says report author Urs Dür.
The Baltic Exchange publishes a set of investor indices for the major dry bulk sectors which includes the Baltic Residual Risk Index, a ratio of the residual value of the vessel against its recycling value, and the Baltic Residual Value Index, which calculates the value by taking the written down cost of a five-year-old vessel by fixing the earnings on the basis of a five year timecharter and adding back the operating costs.
The Baltic Exchange Investor Indices (BII) are an easy to use online analytical dashboard displaying data relevant to vessel investment decisions, residual value, health of earnings, spot and five-year timecharter earnings, purchase & recycling values, and running costs. They offer a high level of clarity and transparency for investors in capesize, panamax, supramax and handysize vessel types. Tanker and gas carrier assets will also be added to the service at a later date.
Subscribers to the BII are offered a health of earnings index which compares spot income with daily running costs; a residual value index which provides an implied write-down value of the vessel over five years; and an implied residual risk assessment which gives the recycling steel value of the vessel as a ratio of its residual value.
Click here to download a full copy of the report.
Idwal launches new online pre-sale module to streamline its pioneering S&P inspection process
Idwal has launched its new module for pre-sale inspection reports, which streamlines their online distribution to facilitate the sale and purchase (S&P) of vessels. The module enables sellers to authorise potential buyers’ access to the relevant Idwal report directly and see who is engaging with the asset information, while potential buyers with authorised access to the report have full assurance of authenticity and the right of reliance on the report’s validity and accuracy. This evolution of Idwal’s current service automates some of the manual tasks for all involved and marks another step towards a more efficient S&P inspection process.
Idwal has been at the vanguard of changing the way S&P vessel inspections are handled since they introduced a pre-sale inspection service 3 years ago. Beforehand, shipowners selling a vessel would put it on the market and wait for ship inspections by multiple prospective buyers. As a new solution in 2020, Idwal built a scheme in which sellers pay for Idwal surveyors to produce an inspection report on the vessel that Idwal then offers for sale to prospective buyers on the seller’s behalf. The new module maintains the same principles but automates some of the procedures to enhance the user experience and create a smoother process.
With approximately 40% professional market share of global S&P ship inspections, the company has built a reputation as a trusted market leader in the field of independent inspections and has an ongoing programme of enhancements to bring to this sector. Idwal Chief Commercial Officer, George Haysom (pictured) said: “Idwal is very proud to have become widely accepted as an industry hallmark for high quality and accurate S&P reports and key to this is our continued focus on the integrity of our inspections and the subsequent reports.
“With the ever-growing adoption of Idwal reports and the Idwal Grade® as an industry-recognised standard, we have seen an increase in fraudulent Idwal reports, which we knew we needed to eliminate. Our new module will make it even smoother for buyers to ensure that they are accessing authentic reports directly from us, removing any risk of tampering by third parties. For sellers, it will offer a more streamlined experience with the ability to grant access to reports and to understand how buyers are engaging with those reports.”
Idwal is committed to evolving their services for customers and remain in constant dialogue with them to stay fully informed about their evolving requirements and ensure they are working on the enhancements to services that will deliver the best outcomes for them. For more information on the enhanced service from Idwal, please see Idwal’s dedicated S&P web pages.
For a demo, please contact: enquiries@idwalmarine.com
The NI launches navigational survey into shipping traffic in Straits of Malacca and Singapore
As one of the most important strategic maritime passages in the world, linking the Indian and Pacific Oceans, the Straits of Malacca and Singapore are already carrying more than 100,000 vessel movements per year. That number is certain to increase in the future with the rapid economic growth in Asia and the development of ports along the Straits. The Nautical Institute (NI) survey will gather data that can be used to improve safety for ships and mariners operating in the region.
Launched by The NI’s Singapore Branch, the survey sets out to identify the heavy demands facing ships’ crew as they negotiate the busy Straits, with particular emphasis on entering and leaving the port of Singapore. The survey also invites respondents to share their views on how the situation could be improved.
Capt. Yves Vandenborn FNI (pictured), Honorary President of the Singapore Branch of The Nautical Institute, said: “The NI is constantly striving to improve safety for shipping around the world, particularly in regions where the challenges are greatest. There has already been a marked increase in shipping movements in the STRAITREP Sector 7 and it is anticipated that this will increase in coming years. Furthermore, the vessels transiting the Straits are becoming larger and faster adding to the challenges faced by crew.
“We are seeking feedback from the shipping community in order to enhance navigational safety in this region which supports the bulk of maritime trade between Europe and Pacific Asia.”
The Nautical Institute would like to hear from navigating officers with actual and recent experience navigating in the Straits of Malacca and Singapore. The survey is online and only takes approximately 10 minutes to complete. The survey can be completed by clicking here or visiting: https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/STRAITREP_7.
Aberdeen’s port expansion boosts regional cruise tourism
The expanded Port of Aberdeen will welcome a wide range of new cruise vessels to the city in 2023, which could boost the regional economy by more than £1.5 million.
More than 25 cruise calls are currently scheduled from April and September*, with up to 12,000 tourists visiting the North East of Scotland. The benefit to local businesses this year and beyond could be significant with cruise calls to Scotland generating an average spend of £134 per passenger per call (source: Cruise Scotland).
The first cruise call to the new £400 million Aberdeen South Harbour is the eye-catching, 202m long AIDAaura on 28 April, which can carry more than 1,200 guests.
Bob Sanguinetti, Chief Executive, Port of Aberdeen, said: “We’re delighted to welcome a host of new cruise vessels to Port of Aberdeen in the maiden year of South Harbour. We expect to see year-on-year increases in the number of cruise calls as we ramp up our capacity and capability. It's encouraging to see that major international cruise lines are already booking their larger cruise ships for calls to Aberdeen in 2024 and beyond.”
Port of Aberdeen has a proven track record of welcoming boutique cruise vessels and now extends that expertise to facilitating larger vessels at its transformational South Harbour development.
The new deepwater harbour, which is scheduled for completion in Q2 2023, significantly increases the port’s capacity for cruise calls and will be able to accommodate the majority of the world’s cruise ship fleet.
Teams from Port of Aberdeen and major cruise lines, such as the Carnival Group, will take part in reciprocal training and familiarisation visits this year. This collaborative approach will see a wide range of larger vessels, carrying thousands of guests and crew, call at South Harbour for the cruise seasons in 2024 and beyond.
Mr Sanguinetti continued: “Cruise at South Harbour is often the first thing that people ask about so it’s incredibly exciting to see it taking shape. Port of Aberdeen is a gateway to the amazing attractions of North East Scotland. Our investment in South Harbour will enable tens of thousands more guests to experience this incredible region every year.”
Chris Foy, Chief Executive, VisitAberdeenshire, said: “The opening of the South Harbour to cruise vessels in 2023 will be a timely boost to the tourism and hospitality sector in the North-east.
“Disembarking passengers - who will be met by our Welcome to Aberdeenshire volunteers – will have a wealth of experiences to enjoy during their time on our shores, planting the seed for future travel back to Aberdeen and Aberdeenshire for a longer stay.”
Aberdeen City Council Communities, Housing and Public Protection Committee Convener Councillor Miranda Radley said: “With new port infrastructure we are delighted to attract new cruise activity that will bring more visitors and allow us to showcase our region. Aberdeen is a fantastic place to visit, attracting visitors to the city is embedded in our city centre and beach masterplans.
“In response, the Council is working with the tourism sector and businesses to capitalise on these new opportunities and welcoming passengers to Aberdeen and its attractions including the Maritime Museum, Provost Skene’s House, the multi-award-winning Art Gallery and Union Terrace Gardens as well as our year round events programme such as the Pipe Band Championships, Highland Games and summer festivals.”
Adrian Watson, Chief Executive Officer at Aberdeen Inspired, said “It is really exciting to see the South Harbour open for business to the cruise market. Port of Aberdeen has done a fantastic job in getting us here and I’m delighted that Visit Aberdeenshire has worked with partners in bringing the volunteer strategy together to receive the first passengers. This market offers some real potential to our city and regional businesses.”
Maersk and MSC to discontinue 2M alliance in 2025
Liner giants MSC Mediterranean Shipping Company (MSC) and Maersk have mutually agreed to terminate, effective in January 2025, the present 2M alliance.
In a joint statement, CEO Vincent Clerc of A. P. Moller - Maersk, and CEO Soren Toft of MSC said: “MSC and Maersk recognize that much has changed since the two companies signed the 10-year agreement in 2015. Discontinuing the 2M alliance paves the way for both companies to continue to pursue their individual strategies.
“We have very much appreciated the partnership and look forward to a continued strong collaboration throughout the remainder of the agreement period.”
Today’s announcement has no immediate impact on the services provided to customers using the 2M trades. Each company’s customer teams will communicate with their respective clients to support during, and beyond, the phase-out of the 2M alliance.
2M is a container shipping line vessel sharing agreement (VSA) that was introduced in 2015 by Maersk and MSC with the aim of ensuring competitive and cost-efficient operations on the Asia-Europe, Transatlantic and Transpacific trades. The 2M agreement has a minimum term of 10 years with a 2-year notice period of termination
TT Club supports NaVCIS to help combat freight crime
The National Vehicle Crime Intelligence Service (NaVCIS) is a police unit with a freight team that collates, analyses and disseminates Road Freight Crime information across England and Wales. The unit has been recently tasked by the UK Government’s Home Office with delivering a Problem Profile on freight crime. TT Club is supporting NaVCIS Freight and its report with the aim of obtaining increased public funding to address the situation.
A 10,000-word report entitled ‘Profile of HGV, Freight & Cargo crime across England & Wales 2022’ (Freight Crime) has recently been completed and is extensive in detailing a range of aspects from types of crime to varied methodologies and from locational analysis to direct and indirect costs to cargo owners and the economy overall. It also has a number of recommendations on how such crimes can be combatted.
The report and other NaVCIS Freight analysis estimated the value of losses across England and Wales in 2022 amounted to £66.6 million. There were 4,995 HGV and cargo crime notifications received last year (with data on reports still coming in) and NaVCIS Freight participated in 284 arrests, supporting a further 43 crime operations involving this type of crime. The unit’s work has in part been responsible for the reduction in the indirect cost to the national economy from an estimated £700 million in 2019 to £428 million in 2021.
“This is still an alarmingly high level of loss despite the excellent work of the NaVCIS unit,” says Mike Yarwood, Managing Director, Loss Prevention at freight transport insurance specialist TT Club. “Recognition by the UK Government of the need for action to combat such crime is welcomed and we are hopeful that the NaVCIS Freight Crime problem profile will instil some urgency into such action and elicit financial support. In the meantime, the unit relies entirely on funding from industry including the insurance community. TT urges entities that don’t yet support NaVCIS Freight to proffer their support as we do ourselves.”
A recent example of NaVCIS’ effectiveness in combatting these crimes and bringing the perpetrators to justice is provided by Operation Luminary involving eighteen months work as a result of which three criminals were jailed for a range of offences related to the theft of lorries and trailers containing cargo to the value of over a million pounds. The methods used were sophisticated and included the use of advanced technology such as scanners, key cloning equipment and tracker radios to trace vehicles and block communication signals. With NaVCIS’ help further successful prosecutions are anticipated surrounding serious freight offences across the country.
For its part TT Club will continue to support the work of NaVCIS Freight, participating in information sharing, investment and publicising the excellent work of the unit. “Policing authorities and central Government must be brought to understand the extent of both the direct and consequential losses sustained as a result of this less recognised trend in freight crime,” concludes Yarwood.
Lloyd’s Register and Seably integrate their systems to ease crew trainings and certificate management
Lloyd’s Register (LR) and Seably have announced that they will be integrating their web-based systems to ease crew trainings and certificate management by streamlining processes and automating exchange of data.
The newly formed LR Digital Solutions division offers, among other solutions, Cloud Fleet Manager (CFM), a cloud-based management system for shipping and ship management companies. The system offers more than 40 different modules to enhance efficiency across the different departments of a company.
Seably is a marketplace for online maritime trainings where anyone can explore, take, or even teach a course. They offer a wide range of flag state-approved STCW courses, legislation typed trainings, introduction courses, reflective learning how-to courses, and customer demanded trainings. With new content added every month, from industry professionals, training centres, subcontractors, and insurance companies, offering the latest in maritime education.
The goal of this partnership is to empower a faster, smarter, and more collaborative management of crew trainings. Since the trainings provided by Seably can conveniently be accessed both via web-browsers or through their native apps, seafarers can autonomously take care of their trainings and respective certificates, freeing up crew managers’ time. All data that is created this way will automatically be transferred to CFM where it is immediately available for further use.
Martin Taylor, CEO LR Digital Solutions division said: “Integration of systems and standardisation of data brings huge benefits to shipping companies. Instead of managing data manually in two separate systems, crew managers now only need to create information in one place which is then automatically available in both systems. This does not only free up time but additionally increases quality and reliability of data.”
“Being open and easy to integrate with is an essential part of Seably's business. By teaming up with CFM we can onboard our joint customers quicker, allowing for automatic seafarer enrolment and training record synchronisation. We're happy to have started with AdMare Ship Management and OljOla Shipping as our trial integration partners and look forward to implementing a full-scale roll-out with Peter Döhle and Erik Thun AB soon.” added David Svensson, CTO of Seably.
Maritime London announces Lord Mountevans as Honorary President and Mark Jackson as Vice Chair
At the Maritime London AGM this week it was announced that Lord Jeffrey Mountevans has been appointed the association’s first Honorary President and Mark Jackson, Chief Executive of the Baltic Exchange, the association’s Vice Chair.
As well as having been Chair of Maritime London between 2013 and 2021, Lord Mountevans (pictured, left) was Lord Mayor of the City of London 2015-16, Chair of Maritime UK 2014-15, Chairman of the Advisory Board for London International Shipping Week 2015-21, President of the Institute of Chartered Shipbrokers 2019-21, and since January 1, 2023 he has been Chair of the Baltic Exchange Council. Before that he was involved in shipbroking for 40 years and Director of Gas Chartering at Clarksons from 2001 to 2014. He is an elected hereditary cross-bench member of the House of Lords, where he plays an active role on maritime, defence, reserves and cadet issues.
Lord Mountevans said: “This is a great honour and I feel profoundly privileged. I look forward to putting my shoulder to the wheel and supporting Maritime London and its members at this crucial time for the shipping industry in my new capacity as Honorary President.”
Mark Jackson (pictured, right) has been a Director of Maritime London since December 2017. He started his shipping career as an apprentice in 1981 in Sydney, Australia and after 18 years working as a shipbroker in Sydney, Hong Kong, New York and London, he joined A.M. Nomikos (UK) in 1998 as head of the London office. Mark has a long relationship with the Baltic Exchange, he joined the Board in 2004, was Chairman 2009-12 and became Chief Executive Officer in January 2017.
Mark Jackson said: "Maritime London helps shine a light on the UK's critical maritime services sector. I'll be playing a part in helping to ensure that policy makers understand our business as well as showcase the breadth and depth of our expertise to the international shipping industry."
Commenting on the appointments Harry Theochari, Chair of Maritime London, said: “I am delighted that Lord Mountevans has agreed to accept the position of Honorary President of Maritime London. The Directors of Maritime London established this role to recognise an individual who has provided exceptional service to Maritime London. I can think of no one who in recent times has provided more exceptional service, not just to Maritime London but to the entire UK Maritime Industry, than Lord Mountevans.”
“I am also hugely pleased that Mark Jackson has been appointed as Vice Chair of Maritime London. Mark has over 40 years of Shipping Industry experience and has both personally and through the Baltic Exchange contributed enormously to the success of our Association.”
Maritime London is the industry-led body representing maritime professional services in the UK. Funded by companies and organisations from a wide range of disciplines, Maritime London works to ensure that the UK remains a world-beating location to base maritime related business and to conduct maritime trade.
S5 Agency World signs deal with Deutsche ReGas to manage shuttle tankers at Lubmin LNG terminal
S5 Agency World (S5), a world-leading port services provider, today announced it has agreed a contract with Deutsche ReGas to act as terminal agent at its new Deutsche Ostsee LNG terminal at Lubmin Port, on Germany’s Baltic Sea coast. The new LNG terminal will process LNG imports into Germany and has a regasification capacity of up to 5.2 bcm of natural gas per year.
The agreement will see S5 Agency World managed the incoming clearance, pilot coordination and necessary paperwork for three shuttle tankers working between a floating storage unit moored near the port in the Baltic Sea and the floating regasification vessel Neptune at the Lubmin terminal. S5’s experience working with gas carriers will be crucial to this part of the project. The S5 team will handle all port calls for the project as part of its exclusive contract.
As Germany continues to develop infrastructure to support the import of LNG for its energy system, the construction of floating regasification plants is accelerating across the country. The Lubmin LNG terminal, which has already been feeding gas into the grid during test operations since the beginning of January, is the first privately financed LNG terminal in Germany. S5’s leading expertise in the gas sector and its experience of the technical challenges of managing gas carriers in port makes it an ideal partner for Deutsche ReGas at the Lubmin Terminal.
Jason Berman, Chief Commercial Officer, S5 Agency World, said: "We are very pleased to be working with Deutsche ReGas on this very important project for the region and for Germany. We will bring all our experience working with LNG carriers around the world to this project to ensure the shuttle tankers are able to operate smoothly between the storage vessel and the floating regasification plant that will boost gas supply for the German market. We look forward to working with Deutsche ReGas and all parties involved in the project.”
Stephan Knabe, Chairman at Deutsche ReGas, commented: “S5 Agency World brings the experience and expertise in the field of LNG carriers to manage the vessel movements necessary for smooth operations and ensure the Lubmin terminal is fully utilised. With Germany needing to make up a shortfall in gas for power across the country, we are pleased to be working with the S5 team as they bring a focus on high-quality, efficient operations as one of the gas sector’s leading port agents.”
S5 Agency World’s port services team will immediately begin working with the Deutsche Ostsee team to put in place the processes to ensure smooth management of the daily vessel trips from the storage vessel to the terminal. S5’s team will be based in an office on site at the Lubmin port to support vessel movements.
Ocean Technologies Group partners with World Cetacean Alliance to reduce ship strikes and risks posed to marine mammals
Whether it’s fishing fleets, cargo ships, cruise liners or whale-watching vessels, collisions with ships are one of the greatest known threats to whales, dolphins, and porpoises. Such ship strikes pose a significant risk to large whale species, including critically endangered species such as the North Atlantic right whale.
Ocean Technologies Group (OTG) have partnered with World Cetacean Alliance (WCA) to make their e-learning title: “Becoming Whale Aware’’ available through the award-winning Ocean Learning Platform (OLP).
The WCA-designed course supports commercial vessel operators by educating crews on how to avoid collisions with whales and dolphins. This, in turn, contributes to improving the safety of crew, passengers, vessels, and the wider marine environment.
This will be the first course in OTG’s Ocean Learning Library specifically developed to help ship owners and operators educate crew on measures to reduce the risk of ship strikes.
Harry Eckman, CEO of the WCA, said: “The WCA is thrilled to be working with OTG to host our ‘Whale Aware’ course on their Ocean Learning Platform. It’s a hugely important relationship that puts our course within reach of over one million seafarers and provides training that can potentially save the lives of thousands of whales.”
“Being able to offer this whale awareness e-learning is of huge interest and benefit to our customers for whom protecting the environment is a high priority. It is particularly important for our cruise industry clients who are huge advocates of ensuring crew understand the actions that they can take to protect marine habitats. This partnership with the WCA will prove to be invaluable in helping OLP users to protect our marine ecosystem for future generations,” said Joost Van Ree, Group Director Cruise & Yachts for Ocean Technologies Group.
<caption: Humpback whale in Alaska, photo credit Alan Bedding
ENDS
Norsepower signs agreement with Socatra to install two Rotor Sails on MR tanker
Leading provider of auxiliary wind propulsion systems Norsepower has signed a contract with Socatra, the leading French ship owner and operator, for the retrofit installation of two Norsepower Rotor SailsTM on the Medium Range (MR) tanker Alcyone.
The 50’000 dwt, 2022 built, French flag tanker, chartered by global energy company TotalEnergies, will be retrofitted with two 35m x 5m Norsepower Rotor SailsTM. The units will be delivered in December 2023 from Norsepower’s new production hub in China, with installation scheduled for Q4 2023 or Q1 2024.
Recent calculations indicate that the average fuel and carbon emission reductions will be 8% for the ship as it transits between South Korea and French Polynesia, with the potential for further savings using voyage optimisation reaching up to 2,000 tons of CO2 per annum. Taking a holistic approach to decarbonisation and combining clean technology solutions enables key progress towards emissions reduction goals, minimising fuel costs, enabling carbon regulatory compliance, and improving IMO Carbon Intensity Indicator (CII) ratings.
Tuomas Riski, CEO of Norsepower, commented: “It is fantastic to see that the Norsepower Rotor SailTM has been embraced by a leading company like Socatra. We are proud to be working with the team to support them in making critical sustainability progress in their operations. As our first client in the French market, it is a testament to the versatility and adaptability of our technology.
“The Norsepower Rotor SailTM is particularly well-suited to tankers, with a strong track record of proven performance. This is why we are confident that we can achieve at least 8% fuel consumption saving, based on existing data and projections, ensuring Socatra lead the way for more planet-positive operations for others in the oil industry.”
Laurent Bozzoni, Socatra CEO, added: “As the oil industry is moving towards a low-carbon future, it is everyone’s responsibility to put forward tangible and economically viable solutions. We are pleased to be working with Norsepower to accelerate this transition and minimise our environmental footprint. The Norsepower Rotor SailTM is widely recognised as a proven solution for sea-going vessels, and we believe that our MR tanker Alcyone will benefit from significant efficiency gains and help us reduce our CO2 emissions.”
Jérome Cousin, Senior Vice President Shipping at TotalEnergies said: “The installation of two Norsepower Rotor SailsTM on Alcyone contributes to TotalEnergies’ Net Zero ambition by providing an immediate reduction of the carbon footprint of our shipping activities. We reaffirm our commitment to promoting innovative solutions for more sustainable shipping and actively support the deployment of the most promising technologies. The success of this project could pave the way for a broader adoption of wind- assisted propulsion for TotalEnergies' fleet.”
ABS to support PCL and PaxOcean decarbonization journey
Pacific Carriers Limited (PCL) and PaxOcean Holdings Pte Ltd (PaxOcean) are collaborating with ABS on their decarbonization journey.
The first step is a recently signed joint development project (JDP) to study methanol as an alternative fuel for the PCL fleet. Under the JDP, ABS will evaluate the means and impact of retrofitting a PCL vessel with a propulsion system powered by methanol as an alternative low-carbon fuel option.
“PCL and PaxOcean are forward-looking companies, and as a leader in maritime decarbonization, ABS is proud to be able to use our deep insight to support their sustainability journeys,” said John McDonald, ABS Executive Vice President and COO. “Methanol represents a promising fuel, with practical benefits related to ease of storage and handling, tank-to-wake carbon intensity reduction, as well as a pathway to carbon neutrality through green methanol.”
Hor Weng Yew, MD and CEO of PCL said: “This partnership with ABS and PaxOcean is part of PCL's commitment to achieve carbon neutrality by 2050 or earlier. With methanol gaining maturity as a marine fuel, we believe it has great potential to significantly reduce our carbon footprint in the short to mid-term. This study will serve to identify the options we have to adapt our existing ships to handle methanol effectively and safely.”
Tan Thai Yong, MD & CEO of PaxOcean said: “Our collaboration with PCL and ABS brings together collective expertise that allows us to work alongside to accelerate the potential use of methanol as a future alternative fuel for ships which will significantly reduce Singapore’s carbon footprint.”
Pontus Berg joins Purus Marine as Chief Operating Officer
Purus Marine has announced the appointment of Pontus Berg as Chief Operating Officer, effective 1 February 2023.
As COO, Mr. Berg will be responsible for Purus Tech, the Company’s asset manager overseeing commercial and technical management of its vessels and infrastructure equipment across the entire business. Mr. Berg will also serve as co-head of the Purus Clean Energy and Purus Logistics businesses. He will be based in the Company’s Singapore office.
Mr Berg brings 24 years of experience in the maritime industry in gas operations, shipbuilding and ship management. Before joining Purus, Mr. Berg was executive vice president, technical & operations, at BW LPG Ltd. in Singapore where he led a global team overseeing full fleet management and commercial operations, strategic technical & technological asset development, and was responsible for newbuilding and conversion programmes. Mr. Berg also held management positions at Greenship Gas, Evergas and Eitzen Gas.
With the appointment of Mr Berg, Henry Chiang, current Purus COO and co-head of Purus Clean Energy and Purus Logistics, will transition to senior advisor to the Purus Board.
Veson Nautical demonstrates continued commitment to cloud security
Provider of commercial maritime software and services Veson Nautical has obtained a SOC 2 Type II Report for the fourth year in a row and obtained a SOC 1 Type II Report for the first time for its Veson IMOS Platform (VIP) cloud solution.
Veson’s SOC 2 Type II Report – compiled by RSM, a leading global security and compliance firm – is issued for the ‘Security’ and ‘Availability’ Trust Services Criteria. New in the 2022 Report, Veson has added the ‘Confidentiality’ Trust Services Criteria as well. Together, these demonstrate that Veson Nautical’s information and systems are protected against potential attack vectors and unauthorized access to satisfy business objectives; services are designed with a focus on availability, actively monitored to maintain uptime, and proportionally scaled to meet demand; and that data is appropriately classified for confidentiality, client data is secured through robust access oversight, and policies are in place to govern data retention and deletion.
Veson’s SOC 1 Type II Report – also compiled by RSM – is designed to mitigate risks with regards to User Entities’ Internal Control over Financial Reporting (ICFR). This demonstrates the reliability and integrity of the VIP Financials Module, which can directly integrate with client general ledgers.
These third-party reports validate that Veson’s organizational and systems-in-scope controls are explicitly mapped to corresponding points of focus established by the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants (AICPA). Neither audit contained exceptions, validating that every corresponding control is in line with the standards set by the AICPA and, as Type II reports, that the controls operated effectively throughout the entire period. With a clear commitment to constant improvement and maintaining the highest standards, Veson continues to place clients first.
Leonard Bond, Senior Manager of Information Technology, stated: “The growth of our audit scope in 2022 represents a monumental leap forward for Veson Nautical. The addition of both SOC2 Confidentiality and our first SOC 1 Type II Report are a testament to the capabilities of the organization and to our resolve in anticipating and exceeding the needs of our clients. We look forward to further enhancing our compliance posture and solidifying our position as the Standard Platform that Propels Maritime Commerce.”
From paper to pixels: embracing the digital logbook revolution
Although the switch from paper to digital logbooks is yet to be mandated, Pierre Dominé, Quality Assurance & Investigation Specialist, Stolt Tankers, sees no need to wait. “There’s so much data across a single vessel’s portfolio of record books, and so much potential for gathering all of that together on a fleet-wide basis for better understanding, analysis and decision-making,” he says.
“However, at present, the standard is an array of large paper books, which officers have to physically write in, taking them away from other duties. There’s no real standardisation, and little chance for verification or validation, while sharing documentation (for example, for commercial or regulatory/port authority needs) requires ‘old fashioned’ methods such as photocopying, scanning, and faxing.”
Dominé stresses that this is not just time-consuming and impractical, but also a source of potential human/clerical error, due to the handwritten nature of the books. “In a digital age,” he adds, “I’m glad there’s finally an alternative.”
On 1 October 2020, IMO enabled the use of electronic logbooks in lieu of hard copy records. Books covered by this measure include Oil Record Books (ORB Part 1 and 2), Cargo Record Book, Garbage Record Book, and Record of Fuel Oil Changeover, to name a few.
Dominé, no stranger to the limitations of analogue logbooks, having spent 17 of his 26 years at Stolt Tankers as a Master Mariner, was already ahead of the game. Together with other seasoned experts, he saw the move coming and he was an early adopter of INTERTANKO’s ‘Practical Considerations for Selecting Electronic Record Book (ERB) Products and Suppliers’.
Industry progress since 2020, he says, has been slow, but change is gradually taking hold. “It takes time to change behaviour,” he comments, “but seafarers, once they’ve been introduced to a good system, quickly see the benefits in having one application, on one screen, where data can be easily entered, and in some cases electronically captured for validation.
“Everything is so much easier with a simple, standardised approach." However, one of the hurdles, he believes, is that awareness of the benefits – at a vessel and commercial level – are lacking, while some digital systems are not yet “living up to the potential”. He explains that, across the industry, there are too many “advanced PDFs” rather than tailored solutions where AI and machine learning can drive improvements, enabling benefits such as learning engine ‘trends’ (and thereby delivering smarter preventive maintenance schedules) and benchmarking across fleets for tasks such as fuel transfers, helping create best practices.
“Logbooks are overloaded with so much data,” Dominé stresses. “So, instead of just making them ‘electronic’ how do we utilise smart digital solutions to turn that into business and operational value? That’s the opportunity here.”
The Stolt Tankers team has been researching digital logbook solutions since 2019 and, in June 2022, started a process of fleet-wide transformation.
Stolt Tankers has partnered with Norway’s NAVTOR, an industry leader within e-Navigation and performance monitoring and optimisation, to refine a simple, smart, and standardised solution. The digital package, part of NAVTOR’s onboard ‘ecosystem’ (seamlessly connecting vessels, teams, assets, and locations) delivers the big data benefits Stolt Tankers is looking for, while reducing the potential for human error, making compliance easier, and helping seafarers tackle the administrative burden of manual logs.
“We’ve had an excellent interaction with them,” he states, “totally open lines of communication, with a real desire from their side to understand and solve our problems. The result is an integrated, intuitive, and intelligent approach that we’re now rolling out.
“It’s an excellent tool for the crew and, on the owner side, opens almost unlimited doors of possibility for real-time data monitoring, efficiency, and continually enhanced sustainability. For a business like Stolt Tankers, that is key.”
At the time of writing, Dominé and the Stolt Tankers team had installed NAVTOR’s Class and Flag State approved solution on some 60 vessels, with plans to complete the roll out (a total of 105 ships) by the end of this year.
Dominé acknowledges that Stolt Tankers has emerged as “early adopters” but believes that, even though there’s no current mandate, other forward-thinking shipowners and operators will inevitably follow suit… and soon.
“Why wouldn’t they?” he notes. “You don’t send a letter if you want to contact a friend anymore, or fax handwritten work details to colleagues… there are better, smarter, more efficient ways to do those things, and that goes for shipping and logbooks too.”
For an industry that is at the forefront of global trade, with vessels and crews undertaking critical operations, there’s an imperative, he stresses, to employ the best solutions for optimal decision making and operations.
“This is a major behavioural change,” he concludes, “but one that can lead to major benefits – and not just for crews, but for a broad range of stakeholders.
“Digitalisation is transforming shipping… and it’s time for logbooks to catch up.”
Cold reception for reefers in China sees volumes and rates slip on main Europe to Far East trade
The traditionally resilient trade in reefers from Europe to the Far East appears to be slowly succumbing to the same market forces as the rest of the containerized ocean freight sector, with sustained declines in volume now being followed by spot and long-term rates falls.
According to the latest data from Oslo’s Xeneta, the spot rate on the leading fronthaul reefer route now sits at USD 4 240 per FEU (23 January 2023). After a period of almost two years defined by prices in excess of USD 5 000 per FEU reefer container, a sharp fall in December has changed the character of the market, with spot rates now below contracted prices for the first time since October 2019.
Xeneta’s crowd-sourced data shows a current long-term rate just shy of USD 4 500 per FEU reefer, after peaking in September last year at USD 4 850.
“Spot rates falling below long-term contracts is a classic sign of a weak market,” comments Peter Sand (pictured), Chief Analyst, Xeneta. “This is one of the world’s busiest reefer routes, with a strong rates track record, but even it is not impervious to the forces impacting on containerized freight at present.
“What we’re seeing is a prolonged decline in demand/volumes, especially to China, and that – in addition to easing supply chain congestion and available equipment and capacity – is translating to falling prices. We saw spot rates fall below long-term contracts on the main ‘dry’ trades back in August, and it looks like the refrigerated segment is now playing catch up. The surprise is arguably that the prices stayed so high for so long.”
Here Sand points out that reefer volumes from Europe to the Far East peaked back in 2020 and have been declining ever since. Volumes fell by 4% in 2021, accelerating to a 13% drop in 2022. This equates to a loss of 100 000 TEU from January to November 2022.
“Softening demand from China is the culprit here,” Sand states. “Over the 11-month period we actually witnessed a year-on-year fall in demand of 30% to China, equivalent to 115 000 TEU. The only reason the overall loss to the Far East was less than this is that demand into North Asia and Southeast Asia actually grew, by 7.2% and 2.6% respectively. These shifts saw China’s overall share of the reefer business on the corridor fall from 51% in 2021 to 41% last year. Time will tell if this trend continues.”
Despite the declining rates, Xeneta’s historical data shows that prices remain “relatively strong”. In the third quarter of 2019 long-term reefer contracts could be signed for “only” USD 2 000 per FEU.
“So, there’s unquestionably room for more movement here,” Sand concludes. “It’ll be interesting to see if the reefer developments continue to mirror the dry market. Here, when spot prices fell below contracted agreements at the end of last summer, we saw significant gaps open up. The spot prices essentially fell away faster than the long-term market could keep up with. The gaps have closed now, but spot rates remain lower than the contracts.
“Will the same thing happen for reefers? What will the ‘new normal’ look like for a fast-evolving market, in both dry and cold trades? It’ll be fascinating to watch the data and discover what comes next, for both shippers and the carrier community.”
Head of Greek Shipping Cooperation Committee blasts uncertainty over future fuels
Chairman of the London-based Greek Shipping Cooperation Committee (GSCC) Harry Fafalios has again lamented the lack of clarity over what green fuels will be available to use safely in the future.
Delivering his welcome address at the GSCC’s traditional ‘Vassilopitta’ New Year cake-cutting event held earlier this month, Fafalios (pictured, centre) prefaced his remarks on future fuels with a useful summary of how major shipping markets performed in 2022.
“Looking back over the last 12 months, the fates of various shipping sectors have almost been a rollercoaster ride,” he said. “The container market, which saw the highest freight rates ever last year, is now languishing at levels which are 80-90 percent below their peaks and with a disturbingly large order book.
“The tanker market rose from the doldrums and even now various sectors are performing very well. The LNG / LPG markets also have seen some historically high freight rates and the order book has risen to very high levels.
“The car carrier sector has also risen from its pandemic level lows and is rewarding its owners well at the moment.
“The dry bulk market, which started 2022 strongly is now at rather disappointing levels and it is uncertain as to what may bring about a turnaround. Its fleet is the largest on record and the orderbook although historically low is certainly not negligible.
“Against this background, the Greek controlled merchant fleet, amongst the largest in the world, is getting younger by the year due to judicious second-hand sales and a substantial orderbook of low carbon high technology newbuildings in all sectors,” he observed, adding: “This fleet renewal and expansion would probably be more robust if only we knew which fuel, we will be using over the next 20-30 years.”
“The issue of what future propulsion method will be adopted or what fuel is chosen, is still anything but settled,” he continued. “Many companies, whether they are shipping companies or commodity traders are touting the strengths of their favourite fuels but none so far have a real green footprint on a well-to-wake basis.
“We are still awaiting engine and ship builders to come up with real green solutions.”
Regarding proposed market-based measures to incentivise decarbonisation, Fafalios said: “It is not enough for regulators, be they IMO or the EU, to create a fiscal disadvantage for shipping if they cannot come up with real solutions. However, it is very important to stress that we support the IMO exclusively and not the many regional markets because we need global solutions and not regional efforts. Otherwise, we will never succeed in truly decarbonising shipping as opposed to filling up coffers.”
He went on the express his belief that “hand in hand with the above, we need a simple incentive such as a fuel levy as a medium-term measure until safe alternative fuels become available in the long term. In the short term, we must be patient and realise the real benefits of EEXI,” he added, referencing the IMO’s new Energy Efficiency Existing Ship Index.
But the GSCC chief reserved his harshest criticism for the EEXI’s accompanying operational index, the Carbon Intensity Indicator (CII), which he described as “another short-term measure in the IMO roadmap [which] seems to have no respect from either charterers or shipowners. World shipping is too complex to try and use rather simplistic measures for vessels fuel efficiency.”
The UK P&I Club and training innovator OneLearn Global collaborate to provide learning content to seafarers
OneLearn Global (OLG), the Cyprus-based full services learning technology, content, and services provider, has enhanced and expanded its catalogue of seafarer tailored training material, under a collaboration agreement signed with the major global insurer, the UK P&I Club.
Under the terms of the agreement, OLG will host 50 video and webinar courses developed by the UK P&I Club, on its intuitive next-gen Learning Management System (LMS). These include its award-winning ‘Lessons Learnt’ video animations depicting common, real-life shipping accidents and includes recordings of the monthly webinars hosted by the UK P&I club designed to keep marine professionals up-to-date and informed on evolving industry issues. This catalogue of webinars will be updated as and when new webinars are conducted.
Also featured are a series of modules providing specialist analysis and insight on a range of specific topics from leading figures in the marine industry as well as topical visual content promoting risk awareness and risk management in specific situations.
In more detail, the UK P&I Club content that OLG will host, includes a series of short (5-minute max) animations on such topics as vessel collisions, bunkering mishaps, crew injuries, and enclosed space accidents; monthly 60-90 minute webinars about crew wellness, biofuels, navigation, and other current issues; 30-minute ‘Ask an Expert’ content about cybersecurity, bulk cargo, passage planning and other subjects; as well as short ‘Inside Ship’ videos about risk awareness in the face of dangerous situations involving steering gear, bunker sampling, and hot surfaces.
OLG’s LMS platform delivers training at the point of need, across devices, to optimise the learner experience and, in turn, drive engagement through certifications and award badges for positive encouragement and reward. The platform delivers an enhanced and engaging, yet personalised, enjoyable, and intuitive learning experience.
Abhinava Narayana (pictured), Managing Director of Operations and Product Development of OneLearn Global, said OLG’s agile training solutions allowed its customers to tailor learning experiences to their seafarers across all digital platforms to meet specific training needs.
Welcoming the collaboration, Capt. Anuj Velankar, Regional Loss Prevention Director for UK P&I, said: “We have long been committed to sharing valuable training content with seafarers to raise awareness and skill levels. The collaboration with OneLearn Global will greatly benefit seafarers and marine professionals by bringing to them the latest information on key topics.”
Mr. Narayana added: “At OneLearn Global, we know the impact that motivating and inspiring training content can have, and we are thrilled to be working with the prestigious UK P&I Club on bringing world-class learning content to seafarers.
“Thanks to the collaborative agreement we have signed with the UK P&I Club, we are able to include this important content as part of the catalogue of courses we offer OLG customers, both in an online and offline mode. This is in addition to the larger universe of eLearning and immersive learning courseware we offer daily to our learners. It is about driving learning on demand across the board,” he said.
Headquartered in Cyprus, OneLearn Global provides digital training solutions to serve the maritime, energy, hospitality and industrial sectors and offers a rapidly growing content library via an enormously effective and intuitive next-gen Learning Management System (LMS), designed to deliver both an enhanced and engaging, yet personalised and intuitive, enjoyable learning experience through digitalisation.
ClassNK issues approval in principle (AiP) for large ammonia fueled BC developed by MOL and MITSUI
ClassNK has issued an Approval in Principle (AiP) for a large ammonia fueled 210,000 DWT bulk carrier jointly developed by Mitsui O.S.K. Lines, Ltd. (MOL) and MITSUI & CO., LTD (MITSUI).
Ammonia is expected to be used as a ship fuel for decarbonization since it does not emit CO2 when combusted. Meanwhile, adequate safety measures are imperative as it has been pointed out that ammonia is toxic to humans and corrosive to materials. ClassNK has been involved in projects aiming for zero-emission ships using ammonia fuel in terms of safety assessment, and has issued its "Guidelines for Ships Using Alternative Fuels” as a necessary standard to minimize the risks related to ammonia-fueled ships for the ships, crews, and environment by stipulating requirements for installation, controls, and safety devices.
MOL and MITSUI have jointly determined the size and specifications for the vessel, and its design has been entrusted to Mitsubishi Shipbuilding Co., Ltd. ClassNK carried out the review of this jointly developed design in line with Part C of its guidelines and issued the AiP on verifying conformity to the prescribed requirements. In addition, risk assessment (HAZID) will be conducted to confirm that no unacceptable risks exist at the basic design stage and to identify items to be considered in the detailed design.
ClassNK will continue to support those companies as the certification body and will strive to provide appropriate standards for ammonia-fueled ships through the expertise gained from the collaboration.
Mandatory Maritime Single Window: One year to go
From 1 January 2024 it will be compulsory for ports around the world to operate Maritime Single Windows (MSWs) for the electronic exchange of information required on ships’ arrival at a port, their stay and their departure. This mandatory change follows the adoption by IMO's Facilitation Committee of amendments to the FAL Convention.
With this key date in mind, IMO hosted "Maritime Single Window 2024 – A window of opportunities", a two-day Symposium (18-19 January 2023) jointly organized by IMO, IAPH and BIMCO, with the support of the International Port Community Systems Association (IPCSA).
A host of experts from across the shipping and ports sectors explored how MSWs fit with national digitalization strategies, the best approach to designing and implementing MSWs to suit Member States' maritime trade facilitation objectives and objectives to achieve the greening of shipping.
Also discussed were the concept of interoperability and understanding how to apply industry standards to harmonize electronic data exchanges, as well as port call data requirements, and the development of strategic partnerships.
Opening the Symposium at IMO’s London headquarters, IMO Secretary General, Mr Kitack Lim, said that making MSWs mandatory from 1 January 2024 was not only “a significant step towards accelerating digitalization in the maritime trade”, but also “an opportunity for all stakeholders in shipping, and a necessary step forward”.
Mr Lim said, too, that taking this step would accelerate the digitalization and decarbonization aspirations of international shipping. He praised progress made in recent years by the shipping and port industries and pledged IMO’s support to Member States in finding tangible solutions to the forthcoming new obligations under the FAL Convention.
In his opening remarks IAPH’s President, Subramaniam Karuppiah, warned that COVID-19 pandemic emphasised that the maritime industry is seriously lagging behind in its move to digitalization. Nikolaus Schües, President Designate of BIMCO, sounded an optimistic note, describing MSW as “an opportunity to be exploited and one we cannot afford to miss”.
A key panel discussion centred on the support that IMO Member States can access to assist them in their MSW implementation journey.
Periklis Saragiotis from the World Bank and Kate Munn, a consultant, have been working together with Fiji on their MSW project. They backed the approach of “upstream analysis” to assess implementation readiness before making any adaptations or simplifications to systems, thereby avoiding digitizing inefficient procedures.
Fiji is a good example, said Mr Saragiotis, of the World Bank and IMO cooperating with a Member State. “If we work together and coordinate and try to send a message to the client and government that we’re here to help...that’s a very powerful message.”
Antigua and Barbuda has received technical expertise in-kind support for their MSW implementation from Norway. They settled on a system developed specifically with small island developing states (SIDS) in mind that can be modified and adopted as required. Wayne Mykoo, representing the Antigua and Barbuda Department of Marine Services and Merchant Shipping said the project underscored IMO’s ability to support Members to meet their obligations.
Another IMO initiative is that of the Single Window for Facilitation of Trade (SWiFT) Project. Under its auspices, Singapore is implementing a pilot project with Angola to establish a maritime single window platform developed for medium ports based on the system implemented successfully in Antigua and Barbuda.
Gavin Yeo from Singapore’s Maritime and Port Authority summarized where they’ve got to: The project is currently developing prototypes for the Angola team on which they will provide feedback so that improvements can be made during the build process.
IMO’s e-learning courses offer another form of support. Delegates heard about a one-day modular course that is being constructed to help disseminate knowledge around the benefits of good implementation of a Maritime Single Window. It will be of particular use to developing countries, ports and agencies planning to implement their own MSW, said Jarle Hauge of the Norwegian Coastal Administration, who is putting together the resource.
Summing up IMO’s broader perspective on where shipping is with its move towards digitalization, Jose Matheickal, Chief of IMO’s Department of Partnerships and Projects (DPP) believes the digital transition is gathering pace in the developed world but developing countries are still to catch up. “Things are not happening the same in the global south as the global north”, he said. He emphasised that the economic and regulatory drivers – in the form of FAL – are in place, and reminded delegates of the contribution to decarbonization that MSWs will bring.
KOSHIPA recognition marked LR’s year of celebration in Republic of Korea
A year of celebration marking Lloyd’s Register’s (LR) 60 years of operation in Korea concluded with the organisation being ranked as the number one classification society on classification technical service by the Korea Offshore and Shipbuilding Association (KOSHIPA), the UK-based classification society reported earlier this month.
This was the third year in a row that the evaluation – undertaken by eight Korean shipbuilders (DaeSun, DSME, HJSC, HHI, HMD, HSHI, SHI, K shipbuilding) – had recognised LR with the number one ranking.
LR enjoys strong relationships with Korean shipbuilders including HHI Group, the world's largest shipbuilding company and a major heavy equipment manufacturer, which has also been celebrating a key operational milestone with its 50th anniversary.
Commenting on the anniversary, Andy McKeran, Lloyd’s Register’s Chief Commercial Officer spoke of the close relationship both organisations share, along with LR's proud history in Korea: “Lloyd’s Register has been supporting clients as a trusted maritime adviser in the Republic of Korea for over 60 years, standing side by side with industry leaders as the country became the leading shipbuilder in the world, an achievement which it maintains to this day.
“Hyundai Heavy Industries has been at the centre of Korea’s shipbuilding growth and innovation in the last 50 years, and LR is proud to work together with Hyundai on these exciting projects. We look forward to the continued partnership, prioritising safety at sea, driving forward maritime’s digital transformation, and enhancing survey regime efficiency as the industry navigates the challenges of the energy transition,” McKeran said.
Recent projects with HHI include the Approval in Principle (AiP) for two container ships equipped with various measures for mitigating of container loss at sea. The 13.2K TEU and 15.9K TEU container ships which have been approved, include anti-rolling devices and enhanced lashing systems which combat some of the main reasons for container loss at sea such as extreme roll motion, effects of GM (metacentric height) and container lashing system failures.
In addition to this AiP, LR has also issued an SCA (Software Conformity Assessment) for HHI’s Digital Hi-PIX Digital Twin core technology to predict the structural integrity of an IMO Type B fuel tank.
The Digital Twin technology shows a virtual model of the IMO type B tank and can build a Finite Element (FE) database after analysis of situations that a tank may experience. The software can also predict current tank conditions based on the FE database from measured signals, determining the structural integrity of a tank based on predictive information. The Hi-PIX Digital Twin Technology was assessed on target ship H3264, HHI’s 15.3k TEU LNG dual-fuel container ship.
Marking the events in Seoul, LR and HHI has also announced a Joint Development Project (JDP) to promote a new way of working with a ‘Future Shipyard Model’. The model will see the advancement of shipyard working with LR’s Shipyard Digital survey platform and remote survey capabilities prioritising increased productivity and reduced safety risks.
Working together with HHI, the JDP will aim to reduce intangible loss in shipyards such as waiting time, weather limitations, survey preparation and time/place limitation. The JDP will focus on a Digital platform – HSHI Q-Win – to achieve reliability, objectivity and transparency by recorded and saved data – (360degree VR, Livestreaming, Video, Photo).
Wonho Joo, Hyundai Heavy Industries' Chief Technology Officer, said: “Currently, the shipbuilding and marine industry needs to make efforts to secure technology leadership and meet the requirements of customers in the midst of big paradigm shift due to the decarbonisation and digitalisation.
“Our good partner Lloyd’s Register has been staying with us all along on our decarbonisation and digitalisation journey. we will continue our close and constructive cooperation and encourage new value creation and leading the market in satisfying ever more complex customer needs,” Mr. Joo commented.
The projects follow the celebration of LR’s 60th year of working in the Korean Republic, the class society having marked the occasion back in November with a dinner reception for representatives of Korean shipyards and ship owners, along with roundtable talks at the British Embassy in Seoul.
Masters have more control over emission reductions through the ZeroNorth Platform onboard vessels
Technology company ZeroNorth has announced that the ZeroNorth Platform is now available to masters onboard ships, starting with two new browser-based software services: ZeroNorth Onboard and Live Voyage Optimisation Plan.
This latest launch comes just 15 months after the company released its weather routing service. The two services cement ZeroNorth’s market leading position as the platform now provides customers full support for their weather routing by enabling masters’ access.
ZeroNorth Onboard provides masters with real-time access to the information they need to optimise their voyages while underway. Additionally, the Live Voyage Optimisation Plan service brings routing details into a live view, including the latest weather forecasts, and enables onshore teams to update and share plans at a moment's notice.
The news means that the power of the ZeroNorth Platform is now available on the bridge for the first time, empowering masters with the data needed to make more informed decisions in real time that ensure vessels follow the best possible route for safety, profit and planet.
Masters will have access to up-to-date forecasts, giving them the information they need to decide if routes should be altered to ensure maximum fuel efficiency, that the vessel stays on schedule, and, ultimately, remains safe.
Providing these services onboard also removes the need to wait for updated PDF reports by email from shoreside staff or the need to make calls to weather advisory services to know what weather conditions a vessel faces on its current route. By connecting ship to shore for one source of truth, both the masters and operators can transparently see the same data, plans and reports to work closer together on achieving the full impact of each vessel.
The move creates a new nexus of collaboration between crew and shoreside staff, elevating the conversation between the two parties and cutting down the number of systems needed to route vessels efficiently and safely, reducing complexity and administrative burden.
Commenting on the availability of the ZeroNorth Platform onboard vessels, Pelle Sommansson (pictured), Chief Product & AI Officer, ZeroNorth, said: “Life at sea can be unpredictable. Conditions can change rapidly, and masters need to be able to quickly make decisions to keep vessels safe and on track. We are excited to put ZeroNorth Onboard and Live Voyage Optimisation Plan into their hands to be able to provide our customers with the data and visibility they need to make the best possible routing decisions.
“As shipping pursues its sustainability and commercial goals with increasing vigour, making the ZeroNorth Platform available onboard ships will foster closer collaboration between those at sea and those on shore, ensuring total alignment and transparency on the goals and key performance indicators. We are excited to see how this new nexus for collaboration accelerates the digitalisation and decarbonisation of our industry.”
Ship visiting resumes in Ukraine
Global maritime charity Stella Maris is pleased to announce that it has resumed regular ship visits in the port of Odesa in war-torn Ukraine, after almost a year of not being able to do so due to security and safety concerns.
On Tuesday, 24th January, the charity’s port chaplain Fr Alexander Smerechynskyy, and assistant chaplain Rostyslav Inzhestoikov, were granted special permission to go on board ships. With a military escort at all times, they were able to pay very welcome visits to seafarers who have been alone on their vessels in Odesa for many long months.
“Rostik and I are delighted that Stella Maris has been granted permission to visit ships once again in the port of Odesa,” said Fr Alexander.
Stella Maris is physically present and actively working in Ukraine to support seafarers and their families.
During the months that they were not allowed to visit ships, Fr Alex and Rostik have been supporting seafarers in many other ways, including ensuring the delivery of food parcels to seafarers trapped on ships in the Black Sea. They have been providing spiritual and pastoral support remotely to Ukrainian seafarers on ships around the world through messages broadcast via social media.
Through Stella Maris’ Centenary Emergency Fund, Fr Alex and Rostik have also been providing tens of thousands of pounds in urgent life-saving grants to hundreds of Ukrainian seafarers and their families in need of immediate assistance as a result of the war.
They also ran a soup kitchen to help families of seafarers in Odesa and helped organise safe places of refuge for Ukrainian seafarers finishing contracts overseas and their families fleeing the country.
Late last year Stella Maris launched a psychological support service for seafarers and their families in Ukraine. The programme provides medium to long-term support from professional psychologists in Ukraine, and delivers remote, ongoing psychological support for those most in need.
Stella Maris is the world’s largest ship-visiting network. The importance of a personal visit from the charity’s chaplains and volunteers, and the impact of the human touch on seafarers’ mental health and wellbeing cannot be over-estimated.
Seafarers, especially those working in conditions of heightened anxiety and stress, appreciate seeing a friendly face, ready to offer support and a listening ear. It reminds seafarers that they are not forgotten amid the horrors of the war.
Supporting opportunities for green fuels in South Africa
Biofuels from farmed algae, hydrogen-based fuel production and making harbour vessels greener through low carbon fuels are among proposals being considered for support through IMO’s GreenVoyage2050 Accelerator programme. The programme aims to accelerate deployment of low and zero carbon solutions on-board ships / in ports by supporting the development and implementation of pilot projects.
The proposals for low- and zero-carbon pilot projects were pitched during a stakeholder meeting held in Cape Town, South Africa (18 January). Representatives from the Government of South Africa (Department of Transport, and the South African Maritime Safety Authority) and the GreenVoyage2050 project team met with multiple stakeholders from the private sector, academia and non-government organizations.
The next step in the process is for one to two pilot projects to be shortlisted for consideration of support through the GreenVoyage2050 Accelerator program. The decision on which projects to take forward will be made in consultation with the Government of South Africa.
While in Cape Town, GreenVoyage2050 Technical Manager, Astrid Dispert participated in the ‘Opportunities for Green Shipping in Southern Africa’ event, organised by the Royal Norwegian Embassy in Pretoria.
During her panel speech, she provided an overview on recent developments at IMO concerning the reduction of greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions from ships and how IMO is supporting developing countries in their decarbonization efforts through projects such as GreenVoyage2050. In particular, she highlighted how, through its geographical position and the abundance in renewable energy, South Africa is well placed to become a producer of maritime low and zero carbon fuels.
Top Glory Marine joins innovative everwave project to protect oceans from plastic
Leading waste disposal services provider Top Glory Marine (TGM) has utilised the concept of plastic credits through the innovative everwave project in a bid to offset the plastic waste generated by its offices over the last few years.
Being the first company offering waste disposal services worldwide through its network of verified disposal companies, TGM’s dedication to high environmental and quality standards has had a significant positive influence on its ecosystem and network.
Purchasing plastic credits through the everwave project has enabled TGM to be part of its visible impact – thanks to its state-of-the-art technology and supporters, such as TGM. Everwave has been able to remove more than 500,000 kg of waste from the water in Europe and Southeast Asia. The startup does not only cleanup, but also builds up new waste management infrastructures to sustainably close the waste loop.
Managing Director of TGM, Silke Fehr said: ““As a company committed to the environmentally friendly disposal of ship's waste, everwave's holistic approach was immediately compelling.”
“We not only promote this best practice among our customers, but we are also working on an add-on for our Enviro Fleet Cloud to make it possible for our customers to easily compensate the plastic waste generated by the vessel when it has to deliver in a port where no recycling facility is available,” added Cathrin Prikker, Director, Business Development and Sales at TGM.
The TGM-owned Enviro Fleet Cloud documents all disposal jobs completed for the fleet and enables the customers today to monitor and analyse the waste streams generated per vessel, the place and date of disposal and the costs incurred.
Everwave’s strategy focuses on preventing plastic from even entering the oceans.
Clemens Feigl, CEO & Co-Founder at everwave explained: “We are starting this in the main entry pathways: the rivers. To do this, we use active and passive cleanup technologies to efficiently collect trash and return it to a sustainable cycle.”
“One of the main problems is, that no one feels responsible for waste. Without the support of TGM and our other partners, we would not be able to clean up. We are excited to cooperate with everwave in the long run. This year we are looking to partner with other pioneering companies to cover the full range of waste offsetting beyond plastic waste,” added Ms Fehr.
Popular ship visiting course refreshed with focus on rights at sea and security
The Merchant Navy Welfare Board’s (MNWB) popular Ship Welfare Visitor course has been updated with a greater emphasis on rights at sea and security.
The course is aimed at all employees and volunteers of charities within the maritime sector, from port chaplains carrying out ship visits to volunteers driving the local seafarer centre minibus.
The course equips ship welfare visitors with a basic appreciation of protocol, security, safety, and other issues related to port facilities and ships. The updated version places greater emphasis on The MLC 2006 (Seafarers’ Bill of Rights) and C188 (Fishers Rights) and more in-depth coverage of the ISPS – International Ship Port Security Code.
Successful students will receive a photographic identity card, with details of their parent society, which is intended to be a widely recognised credential by port authorities and ship masters.
Commenting on the updated course, Sharon Coveney, the Deputy Chief Executive of MNWB which is the umbrella charity for UK Merchant Navy with 45 constituent members, said: “Being able to visit seafarers, who in some cases are away from their families for most of the year, is an invaluable and rewarding experience. It’s this course which allows this to happen as it’s designed to ensure the right training and support is given to anyone stepping on board a ship.
“The improvements we’ve made to the original course are subtle but have a greater focus on rights at sea and security; two elements which will really enhance visits for both parties going forward.”
Since the course launched in 2016, it has amassed more than 1,000 registrations. It is delivered in partnership with North American Maritime Ministry Association (NAMMA) and is approved by the International Christian Maritime Association (ICMA).
Jason Zuidema, Executive Director of NAMMA and General Secretary of ICMA, said: “Though a basic friendliness and desire to welcome seafarers is something ship visitors bring with them to the work, there are many other skills that they need to learn to be effective long-term. The ship welfare visitor course online helps new ship visitors get acquainted with the maritime world, learn about the many other partners in the work globally, and get integrated into the safety culture of their local port.”
The course intends to:
• Provide an overview of shipping and seafarers' welfare organisations
• Introduce general maritime industry custom and practice
• Describe ship types, shipboard organisation, trades and specific hazards
• Enable good practice of personal safety when visiting port facilities and ships
• Highlight current security issues
• Explain basic goals of ship visiting, and improve individuals' ship visiting
• Explain the basic elements of the Maritime Labour Convention, 2006
To register for the course, click here.
WISTA invites applications for 3rd batch of Leadership Accelerator Program
The Women’s International Shipping and Trading Association (WISTA) and the IMO are working together with the Maritime SheEO to deliver the 3rd Leadership Accelerator Program for 10 scholarships to WISTA members which shall start on 8th March 2023.
This sponsorship will enable selected maritime women to benefit from this leadership scheme, which will include training, mentoring, and networking opportunities. This forms part of the broader outreach strategy of IMO’s Women in Maritime Programme to provide women with access to short upgrading courses, similar to those offered for women in port management and operations.
The programme is twelve weeks long and starts on 8th March 2023. After the live and self-study modules approx. 10 weeks, the participants will have a 2-week break wherein they have to make presentations on their projects followed by an online graduation.
WISTA is pleased to invite applications to this programme, with the deadline being 20th February. WISTA members can apply directly using the below link: https://forms.gle/v43ypRDoJfoVrvUu6
Offshore wind boom set to drive further sales growth for Vestdavit after record 2022
Norwegian boat-handling system supplier Vestdavit is targeting further growth in davit sales to the offshore wind sector, driven by increasing demand from SOV (Service Operations Vessels) operators for its robust and proven solutions, after racking up a record MNOK 185 in new orders in 2022.
The increase in Vestdavit’s orderbook was fuelled by growth in both its core market segments - global navies and coast guards, and offshore energy. In addition, after-sales revenue from spare parts and service rose by an impressive 30%.
“We are very pleased with this development as we saw both increased sales to existing customers and we formed new business relationships,” says Vestdavit managing director Rolf Andreas Wigand.
He is also bullish about market prospects for the coming year and predicts sales growth in 2023 could even exceed the annual average of 20% over the past five years.
This optimism is fuelled by an expected boom in offshore wind farm developments - mainly in the US and Europe - that require service operation vessels (SOVs) with safe and efficient davit systems with a wide operational window for service and maintenance of wind turbines.
“The whole wind industry and its value chain is expanding rapidly. We see a strong growth in the offshore wind sector with several newbuilds tailored for this sector contracted by shipowners. The SOV operators are looking for reliable and durable davits, which is right up our alley,” Wigand says.
In particular, he points to Vestdavit’s offering of both single and dual-point davits for service boats and other daughter craft with heavy-duty handling capacity of between 12 and 30 tonnes, in line with the weightier workboats needed to transport service crews for work on wind farms.
Vestdavit contracted seven 12 tonnes+ SWL (Safe Working Load) davits with the SOV market last year, including a prestigious order with Danish shipowner Esvagt for a pair of dual-point davits with 30-tonne SWL capacity, which Wigand says “represents a big leap forward for offshore wind service boats”.
“We see that our after-sales set-up, with a network of own service technicians combined with service partners in key hubs, plays an important role in our customers’ decision process. Our newly established subsidiary in the Netherlands is especially important in this regard,” Wigand says.
The company's biggest seller last year was the Telescopic Dual Beam (TDB) davit-range that accounted for 40% of the overall orders tally, which Wigand believes is an example of the company’s strategy of continuous product development paying dividends.
Originally patented in the 1990s, the TDB has been further developed and refined with improved quality and easier maintenance, and the ceiling-mounted davit is now proving to be an important element in mission bay boat-handling systems being incorporated in new ship designs.
"New customer demands for the ability to handle several boat types and sizes have challenged us to evolve the davit to move boats and containers inward in the mission bay, to include flexible hook distances and to improve modularity. This innovation has resulted in two new patents that we are very proud of,” Wigand explains.
One of these new features has been incorporated in a davit delivery to a US Navy project and Wigand sees further orders coming from the US, which remains Vestdavit’s most important geographical market.
The company won fresh orders from NATO countries and Australia that make up its core markets as many nations invest in naval vessels and patrol ships to protect their borders and offshore resources amid the global geopolitical situation.
Working for the US Navy - the world’s largest - has resulted in Vestdavit’s engineering team being challenged to develop new and improved systems to meet the needs of naval clients, notably with dual-point motion-compensated davits, according to Wigand.
“We are very pleased to see customers coming back with repeat orders and also involving us in new projects at an early phase. Early-phase involvement creates value for both the customer and Vestdavit as we are able to collaborate to find the very best tailor-made solution for the individual project,” he says.
Vestdavit has a range of proven davits and boat-handing solutions for both the naval/coast guard and offshore energy segments that have been developed over several decades but remains on the cutting edge of innovation, driven by the needs of end-users.
The company is currently working on several new initiatives to integrate automation and AI to enable the operator to launch and recover daughter craft more safely, while it is making big efforts in autonomous operation amid an increasing market focus on unmanned vehicles.
Strategic Marine powers into green shipping with first hybrid Crew Transfer Vessel order
Strategic Marine is forging into the burgeoning green maritime space with an order for four hybrid StratCat 27 (SC27) Crew Transfer Vessels (CTVs) for a new customer, Purus Wind’s HST Marine.
The inaugural order for parallel hybrid SC27s will see the four vessels being delivered in the first and second quarters of 2023. If the options for two additional vessels are exercised, the additional pair will be delivered in third quarter 2023.
HST Marine is an established UK-based owner and operator of green focused offshore vessels and provides solutions to offshore wind industries throughout Europe.
Acquired by low-carbon maritime energy transportation and infrastructure systems provider Purus Marine in 2022 and now under its offshore wind business Purus Wind, HST Marine has been expanding its current fleet of vessels rapidly with a quick succession of hybrid CTV orders in particular. Purus Wind provides CTV and commissioning/service operation vessels (C/SOVs) to its customers and will also be expanding its fleet of hybrid C/SOVs.
The BMT-designed StratCat 27 is well-suited to meet the needs of the rapidly developing offshore renewables sector and Strategic Marine’s build-to-stock programme gives it an advantage in meeting tight delivery schedules amid global supply chain challenges.
Mr Tom Nevin, CEO of HST Marine and Business Head of Purus Wind says: "We are excited to be working with Strategic Marine on this new project and look forward to these new vessels joining our fleet soon."
The hybrid ready StratCat 27 design was launched in May 2021 and has already seen wide interest from the offshore wind industry, where solid operational capabilities and a reduced environmental footprint are key requirements.
Strategic Marine’s Chief Executive Officer, Mr Chan Eng Yew says: “We are delighted to have won this order with HST for our first hybrid StratCat 27 which will serve the demanding European offshore wind sector.
"The confidence shown in ordering our new design demonstrates Strategic Marine’s growing reputation for producing reliable, high-quality vessels designed to our customers’ requirements that meet stringent delivery demands."
The 27-metre vessel was designed for optimal operational efficiency across a wide range of loading conditions, with a hull form that maximizes waterline length and reduces emissions and fuel consumption. A maximum speed of 26 knots enables operators to transport customers quickly and efficiently.
Accommodations and bridge deck layout have been refined with feedback from vessel operators and customers. Post-Covid, real-world adaptations have been made to reduce the risk of infectious disease on operations, meeting Bureau Veritas biosafety notations.
Meanwhile, cabin design has been optimized for improved comfort and workflow, with ample storage space, comfortable sleeping areas and business class seating for 24 offshore service/industrial personnel and three crew members.
The vessel’s bridge deck layout has been enhanced to give improved visibility from the helm and an ergonomic layout to increase comfort for the bridge crew.
In line with the stringent environmental demands of the market, the vessel also features a Green Passport.
Strategic Marine's recent collaboration with Sea Forrest Power Solutions and Danfoss Power Solutions builds on this increasingly popular design with a retrofittable hybrid power option for vessels delivered without the systems installed at delivery.
The parallel hybrid system enables a reduction in main engine hours and maintenance costs, significant reduction in vessel noise and vibration and, depending on the vessel’s operational profile and charging facilities, can significantly cut the vessel’s operational carbon footprint.
In recognition of this, Strategic Marine has specially designed a unique logo that will denote this and other future hybrid-powered vessels in its range.
This latest order is a step forward in Strategic Marine’s decarbonisation goals across its product range and signifies growing acceptance of its design innovations and increasingly wide range of products geared towards meeting market requirements.
Strategic Marine also provides service and maintenance, fabrication and engineering, marine logistics services and financial services and solutions for its products – providing a complete turnkey, asset lifecycle solution for its clients.
Swedish Club’s A- Rating reaffirmed
A.M.Best Ratings Services Ltd has affirmed its Financial Strength Rating of A- (Excellent) and the Long-Term Issuer Credit Rating of “a-” (Excellent) for The Swedish Club.
"A.M. Best’s reaffirmed rating underscores the competitive position and attractiveness of the Club as a marine insurance provider,” says Thomas Nordberg (pictured), Managing Director of The Swedish Club.
The ratings reflect The Swedish Club’s balance sheet strength, which A.M.Best assesses as very strong. In addition, it states that the Club benefits from a well-diversified portfolio within the marine insurance market, offering hull and machinery and P&I cover, in addition to its membership of the International Group of P&I Clubs.
ICS publishes annual Shipping Industry Flag State Performance Table
The annual Shipping Industry Flag State Performance Table, published today from the International Chamber of Shipping (ICS), highlights a 25% increase in flag states reporting on seafarer labour standards compared to last year.
Each year flag states must report on labour standards as part of their ILO audit commitments. Some of the labour standards specific to seafarers include repatriation of seafarers, accommodation provision, health protection and medical care. This year 67.6% of flag states reported on their ILO audit commitments, an increase of 25% on the previous year where only 42.9% of reports were submitted, representing a growing awareness on the importance of this area of reporting.
The Shipping Industry Flag State Performance Table brings together data regarding the performance of flag States against specific criteria, including Port State Control (PSC) records, ratification of international conventions and IMO meeting attendance. The flag state of a merchant ship is the jurisdiction under whose laws the ship is registered or licensed and is deemed the nationality of the vessel. The Table is intended to encourage shipowners to maintain a dialogue with their flag States and help facilitate necessary improvements in the interests of safety, the environment and decent working conditions. It also encourages shipowners and operators to examine whether a flag State has sufficient substance before using it.
Continuing to increase the levels of reporting on labour standards is vital to maintain seafarer welfare. As the shipping industry moves towards further digitalisation and a green transition, there will be changes to the way seafarers work. Through increases in and improvements to reporting, the industry can identify how working conditions can continue to be safe for the world’s seafarers.
Guy Platten, ICS Secretary General, said: “It is promising to see such a large increase in reporting on ILO labour standards. Seafarers are a vital cog in the supply chain, making the movement of 90% of global trade possible. Their welfare should be a top priority and by increasing reporting we can identify what we must do to improve standards.
“As new technologies are introduced on board ships, we must make sure innovation does not come at the cost of safety. By continuing to report on labour standards we can improve working conditions for our seafarers, equip them with the appropriate skills they need to carry out their jobs, and ensure a just transition for all.”
The Table also reports that a record number of flag administrations (49) have achieved full qualification status this year under the US Coast Guards Qualship21 programme. The initiative seeks to reward those companies, operators, and vessels that demonstrate the highest commitment to quality and safety through the highest level of compliance with International standards and United States laws and regulation.
As in previous years, a number of flag states have achieved all green/positive indicators in the ICS Flag State Performance Table 2022/2023. These include Bahamas, Bermuda, Cayman Islands, Denmark, France, Germany, Greece, Isle of Man, Italy, Japan, Liberia, Malta, Marshall Islands, Netherlands, Norway, Panama, Singapore, United Kingdom.
Among the top 10 largest ship register (by deadweight tonnage), covering over 79% of the world’s merchant fleet, only two have one negative indicator, while the remaining eight have all positive indicators. Of those flag states which are the lowest performing, a single flag state (Togo) is featured on the Black/Target Lists for all three of the Port State Control (PSC) Regimes assessed (Paris MOU, Tokyo MOU and USCG Annual Report).
The Bahamas Maritime Authority signs an MoU with Argenmar SA in Argentina
As part of its strategic objective of global representation and to develop opportunities in Argentina, The Bahamas Maritime Authority (BMA) has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Argenmar SA, an independent shipping group established in Argentina in 1992 that provides specialised shipping and logistics services in Argentina and Latin America. The MoU relates to future business opportunities within the Argentine maritime sector and the broader Latin America region.
Argentina, which is a member of the Acuerdo Latinoamerico Vina del Mar MoU on port state control within Latin America, had over 10,000 ships calling at its ports and operating within the River Plate region in 2021. This figure, which includes Bahamas flagged ships, covers a wide diversity of ship types ranging from oil, container, bulk carriers, passenger and general cargo ships. When combined with maritime traffic through the Hidrovias Waterway, this results in more than 100,000 tons of cargo movement annually.
The MoU was signed during a meeting held in Argentina in conjunction with the VII Community of Latin American and Caribbean states (CELAC). The Bahamas delegation was led by Prime Minister Rt Hon Philip Davis KC MP who was accompanied by: Minister of Foreign Affairs, Hon Frederick A. Mitchell MP; Minister of Transport & Housing, Hon Jobeth Coleby-Davis MP; BMA Chairman, Ms Jacqueline M. Simmons; BMA Deputy Chairman, Peter John Goulandris; BMA Managing Director & CEO, Capt Dwain Hutchinson and the Honorary Consul of The Bahamas in Argentina, Ted Pyfrom.
Present from Argenmar Shipping Group were José Pablo Elverdin Sr, Founder and Chairman of the Board, and José Pablo Elverdin Jr who, as well as being CEO/President of Argenmar S.A., is also President of the Federation of Argentina Shipping Companies (FENA) which represents 90% of Argentine ship owners. José Pablo Elverdin Sr was previously engaged with the Navios Group which had a maritime base in The Bahamas and contributed to the development of the country’s maritime sector including The Bahamas Ship Registry.
The Bahamas sees the potential for business opportunities in Argentina from the MoU which would build on the established and formal presence of the Honorary Consulate and the three companies providing flag state inspection services in the country. Signing an MoU with Argenmar SA, which is a respected local company whose founder has such strong ties to The Bahamas, opens up opportunities for collaboration with strategic stakeholders throughout Argentina and is a positive initiative to promote growth for the Registry and also expand The Bahamas’ representation within the Latin American region.
Ends
Titan acquires two small scale LNG carriers for bunkering capability retrofit
The independent supplier of low and zero-emission fuels, Titan, has acquired two small scale LNG carriers – the Seapeak Unikum and Seapeak Vision – from Seapeak, the Canadian gas transportation company formerly known as Teekay LNG Partners. The vessels will be retrofitted to ensure suitable LNG bunkering capabilities, enabling them to both transport and bunker LNG, liquefied biomethane (LBM), and in the longer-term hydrogen derived e-methane (e-LNG).
Both sister vessels have a cargo capacity of 12,000 cubic metres (cbm) and are 152m in length by 19.8m in width. The two vessels will join Titan’s fleet in March this year. They will operate in the Mediterranean and Northwestern Europe and will cater for increased demand for LNG and LBM (bio-LNG) in these regions.
The vessels and the retrofit are financed by Sole Shipping Group through a long-term bareboat charter leasing structure. Sole Shipping Group is a major European provider of financial leasing structures. Titan was advised on this transaction by Endegeest Consulting BV.
Titan’s expanding fleet already includes a mix of owned and chartered vessels. Furthermore, Titan has an ambitious newbuild program consisting of Titan Krios and Titan Hyperion designs. The two new additions to the fleet allow Titan to deliver fuel to a wider range of LNG-powered vessels, including all container ships. Before operations begin, the LNG carriers will be retrofitted to improve LNG bunkering capabilities and to meet Titan’s quality standards. After the upgrades, the vessels will be able to load at all major LNG terminals and perform ship-to-ship bunkering and loading operations.
Thanks to its cargo conditioning capabilities, the vessels are also capable of doing more complex projects, including gas-up cool-down operations and commissioning parcels. On top of this, the cargo tanks are made of stainless steel, making them compatible with propylene, ethylene, and ammonia.
Douwe de Jong, fleet development director at Titan, commented: “Retrofitting these ships so that they can trade and bunker LNG, LBM, and in the longer-term hydrogen derived e-methane, offers Titan even more flexibility in its clean fuel operations. The team is currently specifying the upgrades and finding a suitable shipyard for the retrofit work.”
Niels den Nijs, owner and CEO of Titan, added: “A Solid double digit EBITDA in 2022 has allowed us to make this additional investment in our fleet. This decision aligns with Titan's ambitious growth strategy in Europe and the Mediterranean. We look forward to continuing to work with our partners, like Sole Shipping Group, to expand our fleet to support our LNG and LBM distribution targets and serve our customer’s long-term demand.”
Titan remains committed to supplying all clean fuels that can decarbonise shipping, transport and industry in a substantial way as they become feasible. It recognises that decarbonisation will require a range of solutions, and the LNG pathway to net-zero emissions using LNG, LBM and hydrogen-derived e-methane is a practical option available right now.
The announcement of this vessel acquisition follows the recent news from Robert Habeck, vice chancellor of Germany and a member of the German green party, that Germany has granted a total of €62 million to a partnership of three companies, including Titan, for the construction of the Titan Krios new build LNG bunker vessels.
BIO-UV group reports 31% increase in BIO-SEA sales
BIO-UV Group has reported a 31% increase in revenues from its maritime business segment, contributing to full-year consolidated revenues of €51.5m for the 2022 financial year.
The Euronext Paris listed company, a specialist in water treatment and disinfection using UV, ozone, salt electrolysis and AOP, confirmed the sale of more than 200 BIO-SEA ballast water treatment systems throughout the course of the year, with potential sales going into the 2023/2024 period remaining high.
Benoît Gillmann, Founder, Chairman and CEO of BIO-UV Group commented: "2022 was another year of very strong growth for BIO-UV Group, for both the Land and Marine divisions.
“The BIO-UV Group is holding its course for strong growth despite rough seas thanks to the dedication and efficiency of its staff.
“Ultimately, targets were exceeded with €1.5 million more in sales than the €50 million we had anticipated. This is well above the roadmap figure announced in 2018 at the time of the IPO.”
Mr. Gillman furthered: “Everyone in the team is intent on continuing to grow the company, both organically and externally, and preparing the next stages of development. More than ever, we intend to focus on our strategic areas: recreation, wastewater recovery (‘REUSE’), maritime, aquaculture and industry.”
BIO-UV Group manufactures, delivers and services BIO-SEA ballast water treatment units for flow rates ranging from 13m3/h up to 2100m3/h. The company offers complete turnkey BWTS services with installations on containerships, bulk carriers, multi-cargo vessels, cruiseships, passenger ferries, offshore vessels, naval ships and mega-yachts.
PIL selects LR to support decarbonisation goals and drive fleet energy efficiency
Singapore shipping line Pacific International Lines (PIL) has engaged Lloyd’s Register fleet optimisation experts, i4 Insight, to help it reduce emissions and maximise fleet performance with a four-year fleet wide agreement.
To deliver on its commitment to reduce emissions and improve fleet performance, PIL recently opened a Centre for Maritime Efficiency (CME) which is powered by the i4 Platform and uses shoreside routing services as the technological backbone for achieving its goals.
LR Digital Solutions division CEO, Martin Taylor (pictured), said: “The CME relies on the i4 fleet optimization platform to better manage its fleet, to evaluate vessel performance, and ensure the shipping line is making the best decisions to maximise revenue potential. We are proud that PIL has selected us to help them digitalise and optimise its fleet and look forward to a long relationship over the coming years.”
“Our goal is to solve our customer’s challenges and support their objective to offer the most competitive service to their own customers. To create the best platform, we have focused on bringing together the most experienced, knowledgeable, and talented minds in the sector. Our solutions are developed by a team of maritime experts, technical innovators and problem solvers,” Taylor added.
PIL, ranked 12th among the world’s top container shipping lines, has 55 years of shipping experience and its mission is to “drive connectivity” by offering their customers and businesses a reliable, efficient, and innovative service. It recognises that investment and action for sustainability through digitalisation is critical for maintaining a strong competitive position.
PIL General Manager, Operations & Procurement, Abhishek Chawla, said: “As PIL continues to grow our container shipping business in key regions around the world, sustainability is also a key focus. Being a more operationally efficient shipping line would significantly help us to reduce our carbon footprint. With LR as one of our partners in the CME, we are aligned in our goal to leverage technology and digitalisation in our operations for enhanced operational effectiveness."
Addressing underwater noise from ships - draft revised guidelines agreed
Draft revised Guidelines for the reduction of underwater noise from commercial shipping to address adverse impacts on marine life have been agreed by the IMO Sub-Committee on Ship Design and Construction (SDC 9), which met 23-27 January.
The draft guidelines recognize that commercial shipping is one of the main contributors to underwater radiated noise (URN) which has adverse effects on critical life functions for a wide range of marine life, including marine mammals, fish and invertebrate species, upon which many coastal Indigenous communities depend for their food, livelihoods and cultures.
The draft revised guidelines provide an overview of approaches applicable to designers, shipbuilders and ship operators to reduce the underwater radiated noise of any given ship. They are intended to assist relevant stakeholders in establishing mechanisms and programmes through which noise reduction efforts can be realized.
The draft guidelines revise the previous guidelines (issued in 2014). They include updated technical knowledge, including reference to international measurement standards, recommendations and classification society rules. They also provide sample templates to assist shipowners with the development of an underwater radiated noise management plan.
The draft guidelines will now be submitted to the Marine Environment Protection Committee (MEPC 80), which meets from 3-7 July 2023, for approval.
IMO's Department of Partnerships and Projects (DPP) later this year will commence a two-year GEF-UNDP-IMO project called the Global Partnership for Mitigation of Underwater Noise from Shipping (GloNoise Partnership), which is aligned with the current work on the review of the Guidelines for the reduction of underwater noise (MEPC.1/Circ.833) (pending approval by MEPC 80, these will then become the Revised Guidelines) and to consider next steps.
The GloNoise Partnership will establish a global stakeholders' partnership in order to address the major environmental issue of underwater noise from shipping. The partnership will include a strong developing countries' element as well as public-private engagement. The specific objective of the GloNoise Partnership is to assist developing countries and regions to raise awareness, to build capacity and to collect information to assist the policy dialogue on anthropogenic underwater noise from shipping. To support this process, data and analysis tools and capacity building materials will be developed, rolled out and implemented globally and in the participating countries.
The Pasha Group joins NAMEPA, with Kai Martin welcomed to Board
In a demonstration of its commitment to marine environmental stewardship, The Pasha Group has joined the North American Marine Environment Protection Association (NAMEPA) as a corporate member, announced NAMEPA Chairman Joe Hughes. The Pasha Group is a privately held, diversified, family-owned shipping and logistics company with its headquarters in San Rafael, California and offices globally.
“For over 75 years, the foundation of our company has been based on four key components – integrity, innovation, excellence and sustainability,” stated George Pasha IV, Chairman and CEO, The Pasha Group. “Environmental stewardship is a responsibility The Pasha Group takes seriously and joining NAMEPA is a further demonstration of this belief.”
Underscoring their engagement with NAMEPA, The Pasha Group has seconded Kai Martin (pictured), Vice President for Strategic Programs, to the NAMEPA Board of Directors. Kai leads Pasha’s ESG Environmental Sustainability, Energy Management, Quality, Security, and Business Resiliency programs and was recently recognized by NAMEPA as the 2022 Marine Environment Protection Individual Award recipient.
“We are delighted to welcome Kai Martin to our Board,” observed Mr Hughes. “I am sure that he will make a great contribution to our efforts over the months and years ahead.”
NAMEPA is heavily engaged in MARPOL compliance training and ESG training and education for the maritime industry, with extensive programs geared towards the public to “Save our Seas”.
WinGD and CMB.TECH co-develop large ammonia-fuelled engine
Swiss marine power company WinGD and Belgian shipping and cleantech group CMB.TECH have signed an agreement on the development of ammonia-fuelled two-stroke engines. The companies aim to install the ammonia dual-fuel X72DF engine on a series of ten x 210,000 DWT bulk carriers to be built at a Chinese shipyard in 2025 and 2026.
Under this joint development project, CMB.TECH will support WinGD in establishing its ammonia-fuelled engine concept for a large bore engine. CMB.TECH has significant insight into alternative fuels and builds, designs, owns and operates large marine and industrial applications that run on hydrogen and ammonia.
Both WinGD and CMB.TECH believe that ammonia will play a significant role in the decarbonisation of the maritime industry. The series of large bulk carriers powered by WinGD’s ammonia engines will be the first of its kind and proof that large sea-going vessels can be powered by zero-carbon fuels.
CMB CEO Alexander Saverys said: “We believe that ammonia is the most promising zero-carbon fuel for deep sea vessels. Our intention is to have dual-fuel ammonia-diesel engines on our dry bulk vessels, container vessels and chemical tankers. Collaborating with WinGD on the development of the first ammonia-fuelled two-stroke engines for our fleet is a pioneering partnership on the road to zero emissions in shipping.”
WinGD CEO Klaus Heim said: “This project is a significant step in accelerating our ammonia technology roadmap for a zero-carbon future. Having CMB.TECH’s input into the engine development will be invaluable given their alternative fuel expertise and their ship operator’s perspective on how an engine concept is implemented and ultimately operated. The project is an opportunity to widen the roll-out of ammonia technology across our portfolio, in line with our previously stated timeframe of introducing the first engine concept in 2025.”
These newest engines in WinGD’s X-DF portfolio will add ammonia capability to the proven technology of WinGD’s X engines. They will be based on the X92B engine, whose market-leading fuel efficiency makes it an ideal starting point for developing large bore ammonia-fuelled engines.
The development project with CMB.TECH is one of several projects WinGD is carrying out with shipowners and engine builders to ensure that dual-fuel ammonia two-stroke engines will be available as the global fleet prepares to adopt green fuels to meet long-term decarbonisation targets.
Olympic Shipping becomes first Greek member of Global Centre for Maritime Decarbonisation
The Global Centre for Maritime Decarbonisation (GCMD) and Olympic Shipping and Management SA (OSM) have signed an Impact Partnership Agreement, committing to a five-year collaboration to accelerate shipping’s decarbonisation across geographies.
Onassis Foundation-controlled Greek owner OSM is the first Greek ship owner and manager to come onboard GCMD as a centre-level partner. OSM’s current fleet comprises 18 crude oil tankers. As an Impact Partner, OSM will provide a cash contribution towards pooled resources for GCMD’s projects, as well as in-kind contributions in terms of technical expertise and data and access to hard assets, in support of GCMD’s existing trials on drop- in green fuels and shipboard carbon capture and new pilots in the pipeline.
George Karageorgiou, President and CEO of Olympic Shipping and Management, said: “Actions are necessary to accelerate the pace of the global energy transition and the decarbonisation of our industry. Actions are better accommodated and achieved through synergies and collaborations. We feel therefore honoured to join forces with GCMD, the global centre that supports its members to meet or exceed the IMO goals. Excited to join the group and work with such a diverse range of knowledge and expertise for viable and sustainable solutions.”
With a total of 384 million DWT and 4,870 vessels, Greece alone accounts for about 17.6% of global shipping. Within the EU, Greek shipowners owns about 59% of the EU-controlled fleet. Greece ranks
highest in the tanker market with a fleet value of US$56.2 billion, owns the second most valuable LNG fleet worth US$29.1 billion, and is dominant in bulker, tanker, LNG and LPG segments. It is therefore critical for the Greek shipping community to be part of the
decarbonisation conversations.
Onassis Foundation President, Antonis Papadimitriou, said: “We are very happy that Olympic Shipping and Management will join the Global Centre for Maritime Decarbonisation. The Onassis Foundation actively supports the aim of Olympic to reach zero carbon on its fleet by 2050 as well as sustainable and responsible shipping.”
Welcoming Olympic Shipping as an Impact Partner, Professor Lynn Loo, CEO of the Global Centre for Maritime Decarbonisation, said: “The Onassis-Olympic Shipping Group brings a recognised Greek brand to the forefront of the global decarbonisation agenda. GCMD’s goal to benefit the maritime sector is aligned with that of the Onassis Foundation to benefit the public.
“We are proud to have OSM join us as an Impact Partner and are hopeful that this marks the beginning of greater collaboration with the Greek shipping community.”
CORE POWER announced as a Gold Sponsor of LISW23
The organisers of London International Shipping Week (LISW) are delighted to welcome CORE POWER as a Gold Sponsor of LISW2023.
CORE POWER has rapidly emerged in recent years as the global frontrunner in the development of new nuclear technologies for the maritime sector.
Headquartered in London, CORE POWER partners with leading international power, engineering and nuclear innovation companies to deliver durable zero-emission energy for floating industrial production and deep-sea shipping.
The theme of LISW23, ‘Reframing risk in a complex market’, is tailor-made for the concept of a union between the maritime and nuclear industries; both sectors need to transition over the coming years and have complementary attributes. The UK Government has also committed to both sectors that it wants to achieve a series of ambitious targets. New, advanced nuclear technology at sea is the catalyst that can put both these targets in the crosshairs.
The skills and expertise based in the United Kingdom are well placed to facilitate this union. CORE POWER has set out a future-oriented strategy plan for advanced nuclear power to be deployed for UK-flagged vessels. There would also be opportunities for vessels to be operated by highly-qualified British seafarers, trained in the UK with ships fitted out, built, serviced, inspected and classed in specialist UK yards and facilities, then insured and financed through the City of London.
Mikal Bøe, Founder and CEO at CORE POWER, said: "We are delighted to be a significant sponsor of London International Shipping Week for LISW23. London sits at the heart of the global shipping industry and LISW provides that all-important forum for showing the world that it is from here many of the most important catalysts for a new era of ocean transportation are emerging. Only a few nations develop a home-flagged fleet and credibly pass the robust technical and security regulations required now in place to make such specialist vessels a success. This is why we place such a value on the shipping ecosystem that London and the UK provides, and why we are excited to play our part in getting behind LISW23.”
As part of its sponsorship, CORE POWER will host an international symposium on New Nuclear for Maritime in London on Thursday 14 September 2023. Further details to be announced in due course.
Llewellyn Bankes-Hughes, co-owner, and co-founder of LISW23, is delighted that CORE POWER is sponsoring the week: “We are particularly pleased to welcome a company at the cutting edge of zero-emission energy. This year’s LISW23 theme of ‘Reframing Risk in a Complex Market’ covers many areas of topical interest to the maritime sector but arguably none more so than decarbonisation and how the industry is going to achieve its 2030 greenhouse gas emissions target.”
LISW23 will be held in the week of September 11-15, 2023 and will play host to the maritime world with hundreds of events attracting thousands of international industry decision makers into London during the week. The headline LISW23 Conference will be held on Wednesday September 13th while the LISW23 Gala Dinner will be held on Thursday September 14th.
For further information visit the website:
www.londoninternationalshippingweek.com
Ends
MEO Group migrates entire fleet to Marlink's smart network solution
Smart network solutions company Marlink is implementing a fleet-wide migration of its smart managed network solution for leading global operator Miclyn Express Offshore (MEO Group) to support the Group’s ongoing digitalisation program. The contract follows a successful trial during which MEO Group highlighted the network stability and reliable performance for its business operations.
Applying its managed hybrid solution approach, Marlink will outfit 102 MEO Group vessels with its Sealink VSAT solution, providing high throughput connectivity across the fleet enabling personnel on transfer and vessel crews to utilise connectivity for welfare purposes. At the enterprise level, the company will leverage the Marlink network to accelerate its digitalisation strategy with enhanced data transfer to optimise its fleet operations and improve operational efficiency.
Using its XChange management platform, Marlink will deliver a fully managed service including network integration and secure file transfers between ship and shore. Using the smart routing capabilities of the XChange platform, MEO Group vessels will be able to send and receive data on the most appropriate channel and process data onboard at the edge of the network.
With operations in Asia Pacific, Middle East and Africa, MEO Group is a pioneer in the oil and gas, renewables and marine civil construction industries. Trusted by the world’s biggest energy companies, the Group offers a diverse range of vessels from crew boats, offshore support vessels through to specialised vessels services as well as project transportation solutions for project that require a full-service solution.
Marlink has designed and built intelligent network solutions around customer needs for more than 30 years, providing trusted global coverage that enables digital applications through an unrivalled satcom and terrestrial hybrid network. Deploying managed services, enables Marlink to proactively take responsibility for system integration, handling critical data and managing service priorities.
“As a global operator with a diverse fleet, we recognised the need to consolidate our communications with a provider with the capability to deliver connectivity and manage services wherever our vessels sail,” said Darren Ang, CEO of MEO Group. “Marlink’s VSAT solution and XChange platform proved their worth at the first time of asking, giving us the confidence to embark on this roll-out to deliver enhanced crew communications and enable digitalised fleet operations.”
“Marlink has worked in the specialist offshore sector for many years and we pay close attention to the particular needs of owners and operators in delivering business and crew connectivity,” said Tore Morten Olsen, President, Maritime, Marlink. “Operators like MEO trust our managed hybrid solutions to provide the quality and functionality required to support their digitalisation and improve their business efficiency.”
Houlder completes liquid hydrogen vessel design and related studies for Shell
Design and engineering consultancy, Houlder, has recently completed a major design project for Shell International Trading and Shipping Company Limited (“Shell”): the development of a concept design for a 20,000m3 liquid hydrogen (LH2) carrier.
Houlder collaborated with Shell on the statement of requirements, ensuring that both parties were aligned on vessel specifications. The team then conducted a feasibility study for fuel and powering arrangements, and also undertook concept general arrangement, hull design and powering, and structural design work.
The concept design was verified and optimised using Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) analysis. Houlder recently enhanced its hydrodynamics, computer simulation and technical data analysis capabilities through the acquisition of Seaspeed Marine Consulting.
In addition, Houlder recently completed related work for Shell on hydrogen containment systems and carried out a ship piping and instrumentation review for ships carrying hydrogen as a cargo or as a fuel.
Jonathan Strachan, Director – Ship Design & Engineering at Houlder, commented: “These are very cool projects, both literally and metaphorically, with liquid hydrogen clocking in at -253°C. It is always a privilege to design pioneering vessels that have the potential to drive the energy transition forwards. And it’s become part of Houlder’s DNA. We look forward to collaborating with Shell on future pioneering projects.”
Houlder supports its clients throughout projects, often starting with sustainability advisory services, and then moving through to implementation phases using its design and engineering expertise.
Procureship appoints Carsten Schmidt as Vice-President of Sales to lead ambitious growth strategy
Marine e-procurement platform provider Procureship has appointed Carsten Schmidt as Vice-President of Sales to lead the company’s ambitious expansion in Northern Europe, the Americas and the Asia-Pacific region.
Schmidt joins Athens-based Procureship following a nine-year tenure at ShipServ where he most recently held the position of Executive Vice-President, Head of Enterprise Relations, EMEA.
Having started his career in procurement at Maersk in the 1980s, Schmidt boasts more than four decades of experience across a number of industries, including shipping, retail, IT and marketing. He has also developed specialist knowledge in digital business models, B2B digital marketing services and global sales and account management. He will be based in Copenhagen, Denmark.
“Procureship has carefully crafted an innovative e-procurement platform for marine purchasing that is already proving to be a game-changer for the industry,” Schmidt stated. “I have been so impressed by the company’s offering and proposition to the market, as well as the team’s success in building such a strong portfolio of products and clients in a relatively short space of time.
“The market needs a more effective, efficient and automated way of procuring all manner of marine equipment, services and solutions, and Procureship is ideally placed to offer that platform. The shipping industry is becoming more digitally mature and we have benefitted from a growing readiness to invest in digitally driven solutions that make the procurement process more efficient and cost effective.”
“Procureship offers an independent platform that connects buyers and sellers, underpinned by reliable and technologically advanced processes and support infrastructure,” said Grigoris Lamprou, Co-Founder and Chief Executive Officer of Procureship. “This means both buyers and sellers can focus on what they need or what they can provide using a smoother, faster and more secure procurement platform. Procureship levels the playing field.
“As Vice-President of Sales, Carsten will bring a wealth of knowledge and experience that will help us expand our cooperation with global maritime buyers and suppliers as we continue to increase the efficiency of our entire procurement process,” he added.
Schmidt will lead the company’s expansion into new markets, including Germany, the Netherlands, the Nordic countries and the United Kingdom, as well as the Americas and Asia.
As part of Procureship’s growth into new markets, the company officially welcomed The Great Eastern Shipping Co. Ltd, India’s largest private sector shipping company with an operating fleet of 43 vessels, as an official buyer on the Procureship platform in January 2023.
Procureship has also recently updated its platform to include new features such as IHM maintenance documentation compliance, advanced e-invoicing processing and detailed freight forwarding optimisation, all of which utilise advanced analytics as well as machine learning to improve the operational efficiency of the entire procurement process.
Posidonia Sea Tourism Forum 2023 to examine region’s growth opportunities from lucrative tourism segment
The appeal of Greece and the East Mediterranean as an ideal region for luxury cruising will be one of the main highlights of the 7th Posidonia Sea Tourism Forum (PSTF), scheduled to take place in Thessaloniki on the 25th and 26th of April, 2023.
Luxury and niche cruise brands that have already confirmed participation for the two-day event to be held at Thessaloniki’s landmark five-star hotel Makedonia Palace include Azamara Cruises, Compagnie du Ponant, Scenic Cruises, Seabourn Cruise Line, Variety Cruises and recently re-launched Crystal Cruises.
Delegates and exhibitors from around the world will have the chance to attend a panel discussion titled: ‘The Appeal of Venturing to Non-Mainstream Destinations: Luxury & Expedition Cruising leading the Way’ that will examine the increasing importance of lesser-known destinations for this specific market segment, in conjunction with infrastructure challenges and the role of sustainability and authenticity as desirability factors.
“Our decision to move the Posidonia Sea Tourism Forum away from Athens for the first time in the event’s 12-year-long history was in sync with emerging trends in an industry that wishes to constructively address growing criticism for its contribution to over-tourism in many cruise hotspots around the world,” said Theodore Vokos, Managing Director of Posidonia Exhibitions S.A.
“Thessaloniki was chosen as the host of this year’s event to signify the need for more port alternatives and new destinations to dilute impact and optimise cruise traffic management in the East Mediterranean region. Also, Thessaloniki is a natural gateway for emerging Balkan markets, which is another important topic to be addressed during the Forum.”
With more than 400 inhabited islands and coastal cities across Italy, Croatia, Greece, Albania and Turkey, the East Mediterranean and Adriatic seas collectively offer one of the highest densities of destination alternatives in the world. There are countless potential new ports-of-call, as well as main and regional homeporting options beyond the well-established marquee destinations.
Diverting some traffic from over-frequented destinations will enrich the itinerary design menu, as well as act as a tool that can protect the natural, cultural and tourism values needed for a sustainable future.
Mark Robinson, Senior Vice President Operations, Scenic Luxury Cruises & Tours, said: “The luxury cruise segment represents 3.7% of the industry’s total market share worldwide, with the Mediterranean Sea owning over a third of that with 37.01%. One of the main drivers for the region’s appeal is the East Med archipelago which offers unique, famous worldwide destinations and hidden gems which offer ultimate customisation destination services.
“With our Scenic and Emerald Cruise luxury yachts we have many calls in the region, and we are happy to announce that in 2023 our new ultra-luxury expedition yacht Scenic Eclipse II, due to be launched in April, and our new Emerald Sakara yacht will debut in the East Med Region in July.”
Some 85 luxury vessels totalling 36,184 berths will be operating cruises this year. This represents an annual capacity of 1,050,000 passengers and the prediction for 2027 is up to 94 ships totalling 44,764 berths and 1,378,000 passengers.
“According to the Allied Market Research Report, Greece’s luxury tourism offering is expected to yield an annual revenue of USD 2,7 billion by 2030, registering a CAGR (Compound Annual Growth Rate) of 11.5% from 2021 to 2030. A significant part of this revenue will come from luxury cruise activity and onshore spending from this segment’s high-income passengers,” added Vokos.
Luxury cruise passengers seek a wide range of unusual, often specialized and certainly more immersive destination experiences and are prepared to pay a premium to satisfy their expectations. Greece and the East Mediterranean are gifted with a level of destination diversity that can satisfy even the most highly demanding expectations of today’s discerning travellers.
Other interesting topics to be discussed during PSTF 2023 will include the long-term prospects for the cruise industry as an important sector of the leisure travel market and the necessity for regions and cruise lines to cooperate on the enhancement of destination offerings, on the upgrading of infrastructures, on the popularization of alternative ports of call and finally, on improvements of cruise traffic management aimed at defusing over-tourism.
The 2023 PSTF is sponsored by Diamond Sponsor Thessaloniki Port Authority S.A., Silver Sponsor Piraeus Port Authority SA, Bronze Sponsors Celestyal Cruises, Global Ports Holding and Kyvernitis Travel. It is organised under the auspices of the Ministry of Maritime Affairs & Insular Policy and the Ministry of Tourism and supported by the Hellenic Chamber of Shipping, the Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA), the Association of Mediterranean Cruise Ports (MedCruise) and the Union of Cruise Ship Owners & Associated Members.
2022 a year of recovery for seafarer welfare, according to Seafarers Happiness Index
The latest Seafarers Happiness Index report, published this week by The Mission to Seafarers, reveals average seafarer happiness levels in the last quarter of 2022 reached 7.69/10, up from 7.3 with levels rising across almost all categories, reflecting the sustained upward trend seen throughout the year.
The results of the survey show that even the historically most problematic areas, such as shore leave and access to welfare ashore, are recovering. Crew members continued to express their relief at the return of freedom of movement, as well as their increased sense of certainty and stability. The survey was undertaken with the support of the Standard Club and Idwal.
The only area in which there was a decline in satisfaction was connectivity. Quality and cost are still concerns and there is a growing demand for free or inexpensive access as enjoyed by colleagues ashore. Many seafarers believe such access would improve social life at sea with responses like: "we gathered to watch live World Cup football and the atmosphere on board was fantastic."
It was also noticeable that a significant number of seafarers appeared to have switched employer or trading patterns to be closer to home in case of travel restrictions. In addition, there was a growing number of responses from seafarers from non-traditional maritime labour markets, such as Pakistan, Bangladesh and Sri Lanka.
Over the year 2022, seafarers’ happiness has steadily increased from its lowest point in Q1 2022 to something of a high-water mark at year-end. Q1 2022 saw the lowest level ever recorded with an overall average of 5.85, reflecting the negative impact of the COVID pandemic on seafarers. Other issues such as conflict and contracts also contributed to the low morale and deflated mood among seafarers. Many seafarers felt that their welfare was not being properly addressed and that their work conditions were becoming increasingly difficult.
However, in Q2 2022, there was a significant increase in satisfaction levels, rising from 5.85 to 7.21/10. This was encouraging as it suggested that the worst may be behind us, and as the world began to reopen, this had a positive impact on seafarer sentiment. Additionally, when seafarers were more certain about their return time, they were able to deal more effectively with difficulties at sea.
Q3 2022 saw further improvement, with the overall average climbing to 7.3/10. This was due to improvements in shore leave, access to welfare facilities and initiatives, as well as companies investing in their people on board. These actions made life better at sea, and the sentiment expressed by seafarers reflected this.
Although the Seafarers Happiness Index data shows positive progress, there are still persistent issues that need to be addressed, such as workload, mental health impacts, and the stresses of a difficult job. There are also concerns about the negative impact on mental health and well-being of too few people aboard ships. The industry is taking steps towards change, with initiatives such as the Sustainable Shipping Initiative Code of Conduct, which aims to go beyond the minimum standards of compliance.
Despite the negative impact of COVID-19 and tensions between Russian and Ukrainian seafarers, there have been clear signs of recovery throughout the year and onboard interactions are once again the most important factor in seafarer satisfaction. However, there are still concerns about isolation among seafarers and a lack of social cohesion on board.
Training for seafarers has improved over the years, but there are mixed responses from seafarers about its effectiveness. To improve, training should be incorporated into the shipboard schedule and not viewed as a chore. Concerns were also raised over the lack of communication and involvement of seafarers in discussions and plans for future fuels training.
By the end of the year, the satisfaction of seafarers had reached a high point, and the sentiment among seafarers had significantly improved. This has raised expectations that the systems supporting seafarer welfare will continue to deliver improvements into 2023 and we can only hope that this is the case.
Since Q2 2022, Idwal, global leaders in vessel inspections and one of the lead sponsors of the Seafarers Happiness Index, has been exploring the welfare conditions of seafarers. As part of this approach, they introduced a new inspection method of 12 objective-based questions.
The results of these inspections show a clear correlation between the overall condition of the vessel and crew welfare conditions on board. Further analysis of different vessel types, classification societies, and flag states also support this trend. This highlights the importance of the vessel standard in improving seafarer welfare and the positive symbiotic relationship between seafarer happiness and enhanced welfare standards.
Ben Bailey, Director of Programme at The Mission to Seafarers, said:
“We were pleased and relieved to see increased happiness levels onboard throughout the year, and our reports show significant positive progress. While there remain complexities and challenges in the industry, The Mission to Seafarers continues to highlight the importance of fair treatment, reasonable pay, compassion, and understanding in fostering a positive outlook for seafarers.
“However, there are still complex issues that need to be addressed such as abandonment, non-payment or delayed payment of wages, and arbitrary decisions about immigration. We will continue to work closely with shipping companies and managers ashore to shape positive change and to hear more stories and experiences from seafarers through our surveys. We are also mindful of a potential recruitment and retention crisis in 2023 if the trend of seafarers moving from deep sea to short-sea or inland waterways continues.”
Thom Herbert, Idwal Crew Welfare Advocate and Senior Marine Surveyor, said: "Idwal is proud to have been a major supporter of the Seafarers Happiness Index in 2022, and to have played a key role in delivering new clarity to the debate on seafarer welfare. Our research approach, which involved surveying the welfare conditions on board vessels through our global surveyor network, has provided valuable data and empirical evidence to highlight the interrelationship between better standards of welfare and the quality of ships themselves.
“This combination of sentiment, systems, and standards allows for a deeper comprehension of the actions taken, their effects, and the human implications. We believe that this understanding of the value of good welfare, both morally and financially, will be invaluable to the shipping industry as a whole."
Yves Vandenborn, Director of Loss Prevention at Standard Club, added: “Standard Club is heartened to find seafarer’s happiness levels have risen for the third consecutive time this year; the SHI Quarter 4 2022 survey report shows. It is great to hear that industry-wide efforts to improve quality of life onboard for seafarers are continuing to pay off, and the impact is being felt by those out at sea.
“As strides have been made against the backdrop of the global pandemic and Russia/ Ukraine conflict, it is important to keep up this progress and ensure seafarer’s voices are being heard. There remains a lot that can be done. Standard Club continues to champion seafarer wellbeing and encourage the improvement of working conditions at sea. It is essential to safe and efficient shipping.”
To read the latest Seafarers Happiness Index report, click here
New Norwegian consortium aiming to develop complete hydrogen value chain for maritime
A Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) was signed last week for a new multidisciplinary collaboration which has the ambitious goal to develop a complete hydrogen value chain for Northern Xplorer AS (NX), the first zero-emission cruise ship featuring fuel cells and electric propulsion, as well as making pollution-free hydrogen available to the wider maritime market at a time of urgent pressure to reduce emissions.
The partners comprise zero-emission cruise venture NX, hydrogen provider and owner of infrastructure Norwegian Hydrogen AS, high-capacity hydrogen transfer system supplier HYON AS, ship designers Multi Maritime AS, and hydrogen storage system provider Hexagon Purus Maritime AS.
NX CEO Rolf A Sandvik says using hydrogen as the energy carrier will enable cruise ships to continue to access vulnerable regions such as Norway’s world heritage fjords, which by government regulation will be closed to ships burning fossil fuels from 2026. Other regions both in Norway and elsewhere will likely follow suit in future.
“This is a very exciting project and a milestone in the development of the clean maritime economy as the green shift takes root. We are delighted to be working with strong partners with deep competence in all the touch points required to develop the infrastructure for hydrogen-powered ships of the future, not only cruise but also commercial shipping,” he added.
“Northern Xplorer has a very exciting concept with a spectacular, sustainable and future-oriented ship design that is truly pleasing to the eye. We are very pleased we have been selected to assist in developing the necessary infrastructure for these ships to run on zero-emission hydrogen when they come into operation,” said Norwegian Hydrogen CEO Jens Berge.
“We are excited to be part of a consortium consisting of industry leaders within the hydrogen value chain. Together we cover the full value chain, making this an important milestone in establishing hydrogen infrastructure for the maritime sector. Time is of the essence,” added HYON CEO Jørn Kristian Lindtvedt.
“This MOU strengthens our existing relationship with NX and expert partners, and facilitates the alignment of technologies between us. We look forward to seeing the first zero-emission cruise ship running on compressed hydrogen,” said Hexagon Purus Maritime MD Robert Haugen.
“We have been working for three years to create an eye-catching design that will incorporate the latest propulsion technology and vessel systems. It’s great to be part of this ground-breaking project and as a collaboration partner we are eager to bring this vessel and the associated hydrogen infrastructure to reality,” said Multi Maritime CEO Mikael Johansen.
NX signed a Letter of Intent (LoI) with Portuguese shipbuilder West Sea for the construction of its maiden vessel with delivery slated for the start of the 2025/2026 cruise season.
Maersk sets to enhance customer experience with brand-new Southeast Asia to Australia network
Maersk has unveiled its new Southeast Asia to Australia network, designed to improve schedule reliability and boost supply chain resilience for the region. The new network is intended to improve port coverage and offer greater protection against congestion and disruptions.
Maersk says the network’s configuration has been reimagined after a careful review that drew on insights from customers and exemplifies its commitment to continuous improvement. It is inspired by the hub and spoke model and will be made up of 16 ships across three services to minimise overlap, while providing the best possible coverage.
“Ocean transport is key to the Australian economy, and we are overly excited to bring improved supply chain solutions to our customers,” says My Therese Blank Maersk’s Head of Oceania Exports. “This year marks our 30th anniversary in Australia and we are grateful for the strong local relationships and the trust from our customers over the past three decades.
“During the COVID-19 pandemic we have made significant investments in our network in Oceania to keep the supply chain moving. With the introduction of our new Australia/Southeast Asia network we will restore reliability and flexibility of our Australian customers supply chain. Our new network also offers a superior Australia costal connection to enable domestic trade routes and multimodal transport options for our customers in Australia.”
The three services that comprise the new network will connect the five main Australian ports of Adelaide, Brisbane, Fremantle, Melbourne, and Sydney to the world via the ports of Singapore and Tanjung Pelepas in Malaysia. They are the Greater Australia Connect (GAC), the Eastern Australia Connect (EAC) and the Western Australia Connect (WAC).
The new services will replace the Cobra and Komodo services and will ensure critical connections to key international services are maintained. The first sailings under the new network are scheduled for March 2023.
Watson Farley & Williams opens Seoul office
Watson Farley & Williams (WFW) is delighted to announce the opening of its 18th international office in Seoul, South Korea with the arrival of new Partners Eugene Chang and Philip Kim who join the firm from K&L Gates and Herbert Smith Freehills respectively.
WFW Seoul will offer services across the firm’s core sectors with a particular focus on maritime, aviation, energy and disputes work and will expand the firm’s offering across Asia and worldwide. Having a dedicated office in South Korea will also enable the firm to develop its existing South Korean-based relationships and will provide an excellent launchpad for establishing a strong presence in the country.
Eugene Chang’s practice focuses on cross-border energy and infrastructure project developments, structured and project finances, and mergers and acquisitions. His expertise includes both conventional and renewable power projects and he has significant experience in representing both lenders and borrowers in relation to a variety of cross-border financings.
Both California-qualified and a Registered Foreign Legal Consultant in Korea, Eugene has notably represented a number of major Korean developers and sponsors including Korea Development Bank, KEPCO, POSCO, SK, Hanwha and Hyundai Heavy Industry in connection with their outbound energy projects. Eugene will split his time between WFW’s Seoul and New York offices.
Philip Kim is an international arbitration practitioner with expertise in post M&A, technology and public international law disputes. Based in Korea, Philip has established a thriving disputes and technology practice and has developed strong relationships with several major Korean companies, with key clients in the energy, insurance and technology sectors.
WFW Senior Partner George Paleokrassas commented: “We are excited to be opening an office in Seoul with such a dynamic team of talented lawyers. Having an office in Seoul is crucial to maintaining and growing our Korean business and is key for boosting integration across our other offices in Asia.
“With South Korea having one of the strongest economies in Asia and being one of the largest shipbuilding nations in the world, as well as having a renewed focus on energy transition, there has never been a better time for WFW to open in Seoul.”
WFW Asia Projects and Corporate Group Head Linh Doan said: “Our new Seoul office represents a real game-changer for our Asia Pacific projects practice, giving us a presence on the ground in one of the region’s most dynamic and active markets in sector. I’m also delighted to be working once again with Eugene, who was a colleague for many years at a previous firm.”
Eugene added: “I am delighted to be joining WFW. The firm has an excellent international reputation and I look forward to cementing existing relationships with clients that we already share and to undertaking new and exciting challenges with my colleagues to help the firm continue to grow and build on its existing successes.”
Philip said: “I look forward to helping WFW build a substantial and sustainable international commercial arbitration practice. The firm’s market-leading practices in arbitration, insurance, energy and shipping complement my existing practice wonderfully given the high and consistent demand for legal services in these areas in South Korea.”
Titan acquires two small scale LNG carriers for bunkering capability retrofit
Independent supplier of low and zero-emission fuels Titan has acquired two small scale LNG carriers – the Seapeak Unikum and Seapeak Vision – from Seapeak, the Canadian gas transportation company formerly known as Teekay LNG Partners. The vessels will be retrofitted to ensure suitable LNG bunkering capabilities, enabling them to both transport and bunker LNG, liquefied biomethane (LBM), and in the longer-term hydrogen derived e-methane (e-LNG).
Both sister vessels have a cargo capacity of 12,000 cubic metres (cbm) and are 152m in length by 19.8m in width. The two vessels will join Titan’s fleet in March this year. They will operate in the Mediterranean and Northwestern Europe and will cater for increased demand for LNG and LBM (bio-LNG) in these regions.
The vessels and the retrofit are financed by Sole Shipping Group through a long-term bareboat charter leasing structure. Sole Shipping Group is a major European provider of financial leasing structures. Titan was advised on this transaction by Endegeest Consulting BV.
Titan’s expanding fleet already includes a mix of owned and chartered vessels. Furthermore, Titan has an ambitious newbuild program consisting of Titan Krios and Titan Hyperion designs. The two new additions to the fleet allow Titan to deliver fuel to a wider range of LNG-powered vessels, including all container ships.
Before operations begin, the LNG carriers will be retrofitted to improve LNG bunkering capabilities and to meet Titan’s quality standards. After the upgrades, the vessels will be able to load at all major LNG terminals and perform ship-to-ship bunkering and loading operations.
Thanks to its cargo conditioning capabilities, the vessels are also capable of doing more complex projects, including gas-up cool-down operations and commissioning parcels. On top of this, the cargo tanks are made of stainless steel, making them compatible with propylene, ethylene, and ammonia.
Douwe de Jong, fleet development director at Titan, commented: “Retrofitting these ships so that they can trade and bunker LNG, LBM, and in the longer-term hydrogen derived e-methane, offers Titan even more flexibility in its clean fuel operations. The team is currently specifying the upgrades and finding a suitable shipyard for the retrofit work.”
Niels den Nijs, owner and CEO of Titan, added: “A solid double-digit EBITDA in 2022 has allowed us to make this additional investment in our fleet. This decision aligns with Titan's ambitious growth strategy in Europe and the Mediterranean. We look forward to continuing to work with our partners, like Sole Shipping Group, to expand our fleet to support our LNG and LBM distribution targets and serve our customer’s long-term demand.”
Titan remains committed to supplying all clean fuels that can decarbonise shipping, transport and industry in a substantial way as they become feasible. It recognises that decarbonisation will require a range of solutions, and the LNG pathway to net-zero emissions using LNG, LBM and hydrogen-derived e-methane is a practical option available right now.
The announcement of this vessel acquisition follows the recent news from Robert Habeck, vice chancellor of Germany and a member of the German green party, that Germany has granted a total of €62 million to a partnership of three companies, including Titan, for the construction of the Titan Krios new build LNG bunker vessels.
Digital platforms SEDNA and Voyager join forces to advance global voyage management
Enterprise email solution SEDNA and Voyager, an operations management platform for bulk commodity shipping enabling customers to manage the entire lifecycle of their voyage operations in their online environment, have partnered together to streamline and enhance the availability and use of shipping data across their maritime technologies.
Voyager will now be available as a tech integration in the SEDNA email platform and vice versa, enabling the seamless flow of shipping information, like vessel tracking and invoicing data, between the two platforms. This will allow customers from across the maritime space—like vessel owners, operators, and charter teams—to easily view, organise, and communicate information relating to voyage documents all from within one single digital workspace.
Through simplifying workflows and having data all in one space, the integration saves significant time and reduces the risk of human error that could otherwise occur when switching between apps.
SEDNA or Voyager users who request the integration as part of their subscription will be able to easily identify automatically tagged Voyager documents from within the SEDNA platform and route to the right teams and team members. Documents can also be uploaded and synced to Voyager from within SEDNA creating an accurate, up-to-date and clear audit trail.
The integration is available both on SEDNA’s web browser interface and mobile app, so shipping employees can access all of the information they need, wherever they are.
It is the latest integration to be offered by both SEDNA and Voyager. Both companies integrate their technologies with other third-party tools so that users can easily access and stay abreast of the latest information and bring essential shipping data under one roof.
Bill Dobie, Founder and CEO of SEDNA, said: “All too often maritime customers highlight the pain points of their day-to-day work being tied to the inefficiencies of traditional email platforms: inbox overload, an inability to find critical information, and using multiple software and apps to get the job done.
“Today’s integration with Voyager aims to tackle these unnecessary everyday problems through providing an additional means for our customers to work from a singular workspace. Ultimately this will help improve efficiencies in day-to-day operations and make voyage management smooth sailing.”
Matthew Costello, Voyager Co-founder and CEO, said: “The interface between operations software and your inbox has been a major technology gap for teams in the shipping space. With this integration I am excited to see a true plug & play integration come alive where data and documents can move seamlessly between the email platform and operations platform.”
The SEDNA-Voyager integration is already live with one of the largest oil and gas producers in Southeast Europe, OMV. The team is currently passing documents, vessel updates, schedule and cargo changes between systems, reducing the need for manual double entry for the operations teams.
Adam Panni, Operations & Shippings Director for OMV, highlighted: "As OMV Supply & Trading develops and expands its digital network of partners, it is a core tenet to have seamless transfer of data between the applications. This integration will enable Operators to work within SEDNA whilst being able to move documents attachments to Voyager with two clicks of a button. The opportunities are almost limitless and will definitely result in some significant time savings for users, as well as a significantly heightened level of process control forcing consistency of data across multiple applications."
Critical to the global flow of shipments around the world is the sharing and action on key data and information between maritime companies.
While the sector has typically used more traditional approaches to manage these operations, the COVID-19 pandemic pushed the need for digitalisation to the fore, exposing the great benefits of going ‘online’ to advance efficiencies across the industry. As a result, a recent survey found over two-thirds of shipping companies are now exploring digital solutions to enhance their communication channels and, in turn, reduce operational costs and improve fleet services.
Set up in 2017, SEDNA was created to move email away from its present challenges—like inbox overload, lost data, and siloed operations—to instead serve as an all-in-one workspace fit for the modern world. SEDNA customers to date include leading global companies like Ardmore Shipping, NORDEN and Bunge, as well as enterprise companies working in other industries. Customers using SEDNA report saving up to two hours per employee per day - critical time to instead spend on other, more skilful tasks.
In addition to connecting to core business systems and third-party apps like Voyager, SEDNA is enhancing the email experience through the rollout of artificial intelligence tools to automate manual and repetitive tasks, like invoice processing, deleting personal data, and managing service-level agreements. Other features recently rolled out as part of a recent wider product release, named after the star constellation ‘Alhena’, include a new apps marketplace to find other integrations to use in SEDNA, as well a calendar feature.
In a similar sense, Voyager is contributing to this digitalization trend by allowing bulk charterers, brokers, and manufacturers to manage claims, disputes, and payments more efficiently in a recently launched Demurrage module. The platform helps companies unlock insights and demurrage-saving opportunities 95% faster through automated Statement of Facts capturing, reducing the need for manual inputs and leveraging efficient demurrage negotiations.
BIO-SEA prevents access to cyber hackers looking for entry point into ship systems
French UV-based water treatment specialist BIO-UV Group has developed state-of-the-art cyber security software for its BIO-SEA ballast water treatment system ahead of two IACS Unified Requirements set to enter into force next year.
Like any networked system or control software onboard ship, the ballasting process, including the treatment system, can be susceptible to a cyber attack, with hackers looking for an entry point to a vessel’s Operational Technology (OT) systems.
Concern is such that the International Association of Classification Societies (IACS) adopted in 2021 two new URs to increase the cyber resilience of ships. UR E26 and UR E27 will be applied to new ships contracted for construction on and after 1 January 2024.
The requirements are twofold: to ensure the secure integration of equipment into the vessel’s network throughout its operational lifespan; and to make the interface between users and computer-based systems/equipment more resilient.
“This could be a problem for legacy systems,” said Charlène Ceresola, Project manager, BIO-UV Group. “It’s not the case with a BIO-SEA unit, but older ballast water treatment systems can be susceptible to a cyber-attack. If the ballasting system is hacked and pumps operated remotely, ship stability is at risk; a ship could sink, and lives lost. It’s much more than simply an environmental threat.”
Ceresola said: “We are following these guidelines and have developed greater cyber secure functions to our software ahead of the requirement. In an increasingly connected and digitised world, every component onboard ship has to be cyber secure.”
BIO-UV Group completed testing of the new cyber secure function in 2022, with full type approval expected later this year.
“Software development forms a key part of our commitment to going beyond compliance," said BIO-UV Group’s Maritime Division, BIO-SEA Business Director, Maxime Dedeurwaerder.
“In terms of development, what is changing for the industry now is the need for more advanced solutions for remote maintenance; solutions for integrating BWTS with different cabling configurations; and solutions for different water conditions and UV dosage rates. The refinements we are making are not part of the Convention but will help operators better manage the ballasting process.”
As the global BWTS market matures and moves from an acquisition and supply market to one of support and service, BIO-UV Group has seen increased focus on system integration and engineering.
KR and LISCR award AiP for autonomous navigation system HiNAS 2.0
The commercialization of autonomous shipping has taken another step forward with the Korean Register (KR) and Liberian Registry (LISCR) awarding Approval in Principle (AiP) for Hyundai Intelligent Navigation Assistant System (HiNAS 2.0).
The newly approved HiNAS 2.0, developed by Avikus, a subsidiary of Hyundai Heavy Industries (HHI), uses augmented reality (AR) to enable a ship to navigate optimal routes at ideal speed, and avoid collisions based on the integrated data by artificial intelligence (AI) collected from sensors attached to a vessel and its sailing equipment.
The solution was developed to ensure safe navigation, improve fuel efficiency and ease the operational burden on bridge teams. The autonomous system is also expected to reduce maritime accidents and air pollutants.
To overcome the limitations on existing rules for examining the new autonomous navigation systems, KR, HHI, Avikus, and LISCR signed a joint development agreement in August 2022 to collaborate on bringing HiNAS 2.0 to market. KR and LISCR have now each confirmed the system’s safety and feasibility, having reviewed classification rules, domestic and international standards, and issued an AiP.
JUNG Jaejun, Vice President of HHI said: “The AiP awarded to HiNAS 2.0 is a great example of HD Hyundai's determination to become a first mover in maritime mobility, by providing the digital solution for autonomous navigation. We will continue to advance our technologies for the safe autonomous operation of vessels.”
LIM Dohyeong, Avikus CEO said: “The outcome of this joint development research is quite meaningful because it is the first achievement through the collaboration of a shipyard, an autonomous navigation solution development company, a classification society and a ship registry. It proves that an autonomous navigation system can be installed on a ship and operated stably. We believe HiNAS 2.0 will drastically improve the safety and economic feasibility of ships, accelerating the commercialization of autonomous navigation technology.”
KIM Yeontae, Executive Vice President of KR Technical Division said: “The commercialization of autonomous ships is highly anticipated by maritime stakeholders. This AiP is significant since it has proven the reliability and safety of AI-based autonomous navigation systems. We will provide our full technical support to enhance the safe and cost-efficient operation of autonomous ships.”
Thomas Klenum, Executive Vice President, Innovation & Regulatory Affairs of LISCR said: “As one of the key features, the Hyundai Intelligent Navigation Assistant System (HiNAS 2.0) significantly reduces the risk for collision and thereby enhances the safety of navigation, and in addition, the system integrates voyage optimization capability that reduces fuel consumption and emissions. The Liberian Registry is proud to have awarded the AiP to HiNAS 2.0 as a result of this joint development project with HHI, Avikus and KR.”
Total propulsion control makeover of Silja Europa
Marine green tech company Qtagg recently secured an order on a total upgrade of Silja Europa’s propulsion control system, that will decrease the ship’s fuel consumption by 6% and CO2 emissions by 2096 tons yearly. The overhaul includes engine speed governors, fuel rack actuators, pitch control and voyage optimization with EcoPilot.
Silja Europa is Tallink’s largest cruise vessel with a gross tonnage of 59,912. Up until the summer of 2022 it operated on the Baltic Sea, between Helsinki (Finland) – Tallinn (Estonia). Since September 2022, it has been chartered out to the Netherlands and used to house migrants and refugees.
The technical review made in preparation to bring Silja Europa into regular traffic again resulted in the decision to replace the complete existing propulsion control system with up-to-date technology, and to add EcoPilot for fuel-saving voyage optimization.
Qtagg will supply the EcoPilot voyage optimization system, with interfaces both at the bridge and in the control room, four DEGO IV engine governors, four ASAC actuators with control units, two pitch control units and the ancillary equipment needed for a complete and integrated installation.
The governors will be installed in the engine control room, replacing existing Woodward control units. The governors are connected to an application server and a system that visualizes fuel consumption and provides detailed logging. The actuator control units will be mounted in the engine room, while the pitch control units are installed in the existing pitch control cabinet where it replaces the current analog rack.
EcoPilot provides the captain with exact control over the arrival time, while saving fuel in a predictable manner. The expected fuel consumption for a voyage is automatically calculated beforehand, based on the desired arrival time, selected route and current weather reports.
In the voyage planning process, the navigation will know how much fuel will be consumed to bring the ship to its destination. They can choose to adjust the arrival time or to depart earlier in order to optimize fuel savings.
The fuel savings are estimated to be about 6%, in line with savings recorded on Tallink Isabelle, where EcoPilot is already installed. The fuel savings are achieved through optimized propulsion, based on the collection and processing of large amounts of data, including real-time weather forecasts, sea state and ship data. Once the captain has selected a route it is executed through the propulsion control system, and the optimal propeller speed and pitch position is applied over the complete course of the voyage.
The expected annual CO2 reduction for Silja Europa is 2096 tons, which will contribute to a lower ETS cost in the future and a better CII rating for the ship.
Panama recovers record $15.7 million through the AMP in wages owed to seafarers
During the current administration of the Panama Maritime Authority (AMP), through the General Directorate of Seafarers (DGGM), a record USD$15.7 million has been recovered in wage payments owed by shipowners to seafarers who sail on Panamanian-flagged vessels. Of that total, USD$5.3 million was achieved in the year 2022.
Likewise, during the current administration 1,248 maritime labour complaints have been processed, 81 maritime labour conciliations and through the intervention of the AMP the shipowners, operators and P&I Clubs, the repatriation of 1,864 crew members of various nationalities was carried out. In 2022 alone, 451 labour complaints and 25 labour reconciliations were processed, and as a result of the intervention of the AMP shipowners carried out the repatriation of 478 crew members of Panamanian-flagged vessels, in various parts of the world.
The seafarers repatriated were found abandoned on Panamanian-flagged ships in different parts of the world and were able return home to their families with payment of their owed wages, as guaranteed under national and international regulations that protect their labour and social rights.
Nationwide, 935 maritime labour inspections have been carried out, of which 351 were during the year 2022. This year inspections will continue on board domestic and international service vessels of the Panamanian registry, in compliance with the provisions of Decree Law No. 8 of February 26, 1998 and Executive Decree No. 86 of February 22, 2013.
AMP says this arduous work proves once again its commitment to comply with international conventions and national regulations that regulate the work of seafarers on board Panamanian-flagged ships, such as the Maritime Labour Convention, 2006 amended, ratified by the Republic of Panama in 2009; its regulation in Panama through Executive Decree No. 86 of 2013 and Executive Decree No. 160 of March 3, 2021, through which decent work is guaranteed, achieving these excellent results.
The General Directorate of Seafarers of the Panama Maritime Authority ensures that the labour rights of seafarers are respected, putting into practice the procedures aimed at quickly and effectively resolving conflicts and problems that affect seafarers, giving the guarantee of a safe support as a serious and responsible registry of ships.
OX2 and the Bank of Åland plan a Mega Green Port project in Åland
OX2 and the Bank of Åland’s mutual fund subsidiary Ålandsbanken Fondbolag, which are developing the Noatun North and Noatun South offshore wind power projects near Finland’s Åland archipelago in the Baltic Sea, have initiated a feasibility study for the planning and establishment of a ‘Mega Grön Hamn’ (Mega Green Port) with a location coexisting with the port of Långnäs in Åland.
The project is a key element of efforts to create the Nordic region’s leading green hub in Åland, with an extra focus in this project on the shipping segment and the establishment of new business operations in Åland.
Långnäs is a suitable hub for OX2’s and the Bank of Åland’s joint offshore projects Noatun North and South − for construction, electrical connections, hydrogen and electrofuel (e-fuel) production/distribution as well as other newly established business operations. The project team consists of representatives from OX2, the Bank of Åland, the Mærsk Mc-Kinney Møller Center for Zero Carbon Shipping, EuroMekanik and a number of other consultancies.
Fully developed, the port will function as a green node and − in addition to construction logistics for the individual wind power projects − will open opportunities for the creation of new business operations, new jobs, an electrical connection to Åland and much more. The capacity requirement for Långnäs is estimated at 3,000 megawatts (MW), which is the maximum size of the electrolyser.
"Creating a Mega Green Port will bolster the Åland economy in many different ways,” says Anders Wiklund, Country Manager Åland at OX2. “In addition to being an important part of the offshore wind power projects, it will generate jobs and produce e-fuel for the shipping industry − making Åland attractive for the establishment of large business operations and enabling many new innovative projects in oxygenation of waterways and utilisation of excess heat in various manufacturing activities. The port will strengthen Åland’s potential to become the leading green hub in the Nordic region.”
The Mega Green Port project includes plans to produce hydrogen as a fuel for the shipping industry, for future local archipelago transport services and for industrial processes in Åland. Långnäs will also become an important hub for transporting hydrogen through the planned Baltic Sea Hydrogen Collector south to the European continent.
The project company is also conducting a dialogue directly with international companies about establishing new operations in Åland. This includes both the manufacturing sector, the information technology (IT) industry and potential agricultural opportunities, which are all dependent on large-scale green energy production.
“The purpose of our planned wind power projects is green energy transition and enabling the general public to participate via our mutual fund structure − but perhaps, above all, to create a new growth engine for the Åland business sector,” says Peter Wiklöf, Manager Director and Chief Executive of the Bank of Åland.
Participation in the project by the Mærsk Mc-Kinney Møller Center for Zero Carbon Shipping in Copenhagen will provide important knowledge about green e-fuel and port development, which it works with on a global basis.
“We are very much looking forward to being involved in this feasibility study, the vision for Åland and the role that Långnäs can play for shipping,” says Johan Byskov Svendsen, Programme Manager at the Mærsk Mc-Kinney Møller Center for Zero Carbon Shipping. “The global shipping industry is clamouring for green e-fuel on a large scale, which makes the timing of this feasibility study perfect. It needs to get started as soon as possible.”
According to plans, the feasibility study will last for 12 months and create a better understanding of the conditions around the proposed Långnäs Mega Green Port, both practical and technical, as well as financial factors. More details about the feasibility study will be provided on an ongoing basis, not least at the upcoming EnergiArena event this spring.
Maersk North America and Ashdod Port to collaborate on logistic and supply chain innovation
Ashdod Port Company has signed an agreement with Maersk North America - to collaborate on innovation opportunities in supply chain logistics.
The agreement enables Israeli startups that are participating in Ashdod Port’s Blue Ocean for Startups technology incubator to be considered for pilot projects in North America to test the proposed technologies in landside operations.
The agreement was signed at the Manifest conference in Las Vegas, one of the largest logistics conferences in the world. Over 3,000 visitors from 50 countries participate in the conference, along with 1,000 startups and investors and 250 CEOs from leading companies such as Schneider, DHL, and Siemens.
Chairman of the Board Orna Hozman Bechor and Chief Innovation Officer Roy Avrahami represented Ashdod Port at the signing. Maersk was represented by Erez Agmoni, Senior Vice President of Innovation and Strategic Growth.
“The Board of Directors and the management of Ashdod Port are continuing their efforts to expand Ashdod Port’s collaboration around the world, as we promote new technologies and innovation in the logistics industry,” said Orna Hozman Bechor, Chairman of the Board of Ashdod Port.
“This type of collaboration is critical, so we can upgrade the entire supply chain, the source of the modern global economy, and make it more efficient. We are excited to collaborate with Maersk in North America.”
“The pandemic highlighted the importance of supply chains to constantly improve,”said Erez Agmoni, Maersk North America’s Senior Vice President of Innovation and Strategic Growth. “This new partnership enables us to accelerate and test technology and new ideas in our operational processes using Ashdod Port’s tech incubator.”
This latest announcement builds on an earlier innovation agreement Maersk signed in 2021 with the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) Center for Transportation & Logistics. An agreement that takes advantage of MIT’s world-renowned engineering expertise and data scientist teams to research new ways of improving Maersk North America’s logistics and data processes.
Hapag-Lloyd achieves ‘extraordinarily strong’ $20bn result in 175th anniversary year
On the basis of preliminary and unaudited figures, Hapag-Lloyd has concluded the 2022 financial year – in which it celebrated its 175th anniversary – with an EBITDA of USD 20.5 billion (EUR 19.4 billion).
The EBIT rose to USD 18.5 billion (EUR 17.5 billion), which can primarily be attributed to higher freight rates. At the same time, disruptions in global supply chains and inflation have led to a significant increase in costs.
Revenues rose to USD 36.4 billion (EUR 34.5 billion), mainly owing to an increase in the average freight rate, to 2,863 USD/TEU (2021: 2,003 USD/TEU). However, already by the end of the year, the freight rate had significantly come back down as congestion eased and demand declined.
Transport volumes for full-year 2022 were roughly on a par with the prior-year level, at 11.8 million TEU (2021: 11.9 million TEU).
Hapag-Lloyd will publish its 2022 Annual Report with the audited financial figures and an outlook for the current financial year during a virtual press briefing on financial statements on 2 March 2023.
Euronav reports buoyant Q4 results, predicts tanker boom to continue
Tanker giant Euronav has reported unaudired fourth quarter 2022 results that include a net profit of $235.4m, leading to a full-year net of $205.6m.
Hugo De Stoop, CEO of Euronav said: “Constrained vessel supply conditions within all segments of the large crude tanker market were supplemented further by two key factors during Q4 2022. Firstly, seasonal demand for crude gained traction as consumption rose into the 22/23 winter. Secondly, the EU embargo on Russian oil, effective 5 December 2022, created additional shipping demand as crude trading patterns required longer voyages and therefore captured more shipping capacity.
“These supportive catalysts helped drive freight rates to a 30-month high and we believe that the solid base of sector fundamentals (orderbook, fleet age, incoming regulations) will continue to underpin positive conditions within the tanker market for multiple quarters ahead.
“Recent events have also been dynamic but have never affected the operational performance of the Company as we remain focused and committed to maintain our position of market leadership and have managed to rejuvenate the fleet at a critical time in the market cycle both in buying and ordering modern vessels at good prices as well as be patient and dispose of older assets when the value became interesting.”
As regards the dispute with Frontline over the two companies’ aborted tie-up, now subject to arbitration, De Stoop added: “Whilst we regret the current situation, we will continue to act professionally and to work to a solution which is in the interests of all of our shareholders and stakeholders.”
Petronav chooses MORSe-ORB for its fleet
Cyprus-based Petronav Ship Management Ltd has moved away from the use of the traditional paper Oil Record Book and chosen MORSε ORB developed by Prevention at Sea.
Mr. Demetris Charalambous General Manager at Petronav Ship Management Ltd. stated “We are so enthused with our decision to install the electronic Oil Record Book developed by Prevention at Sea across our fleet. With MORSεORB onboard, we guard our ships in lieu of traditional hard copy Oil Record Book issues while at the same time complementing our digitalisation goals, one of which is moving away from the use of paper.”
CEO and founder of Prevention at Sea Ltd Mr. Petros Achtypis said “We are honoured that Petronav Ship Management Ltd. has chosen our electronic Oil Record Book and recognises the importance of implementing a digital logbook solution. We are currently implementing our customised solution across their fleet, and we are happy with how easy and seamless the installation and generally the implementation of this transition by the incredibly skilled and effective Petronav team.”
MOL becomes world's first company to earn AiP for vessel cyber resilience
Mitsui O.S.K. Lines (MOL) announces that it has obtained Approval in Principle (AiP) from French classification society Bureau Veritas for the basic design of a ship network with cyber resilience measures developed and demonstrated by MOL, in compliance with the Unified Requirement (UR) E26 "Cyber resilience of ships" issued by the International Association of Classification Societies (IACS), becoming the first company in the world to receive an AiP for UR E26.
UR E26 is a mandatory requirement covering vessels for which construction contracts are signed on or after January 1, 2024. It aims to ensure the secure integration of both operational marine equipment and IT-related equipment such as onboard PCs into the vessel's network from the design through its operational life.
UR E26 stipulates that ship equipment manufacturers, shipyards, shipowners, and other parties involved should incorporate appropriate cyber resilience measures at each stage of design, development, implementation, and operation from their own standpoint.
MOL says it will actively promote the improvement of safe operation and the digital transformation safely by improving vessel cyber resilience.
Accelleron signs Turbo MarineCare agreement with Chinese VLCC owner AMCL
Accelleron Turbo Systems (Hong Kong) Ltd has signed a Turbo MarineCare™ agreement with Associated Maritime (Hong Kong) Co. Ltd., for the long-term provision of turbocharging servicing for ten A175-L turbochargers on five AMCL operated vessels.
AMCL is both the owner of the largest VLCC fleet in China and manager of the world's leading VLCC fleet. The company was one of the forerunners in introducing VLCCs to the Asia-Pacific region.
The deal represents the first time a company under the China Merchants Group has signed a long-term turbocharger servicing agreement with Accelleron and signifies the first step in a strategic business partnership between the two companies.
Under the Turbo MarineCare™ service agreement, Accelleron will provide fixed-price turbocharger servicing using original spare parts with continuous warranty for a duration of five years to ensure the safe operation of the vessels. AMCL will also gain access to Accelleron’s intuitive digital platform, Loreka which provides users with 24/7 access to easy-to-interpret fleet-wide turbocharger health indicators with accompanying advisories provided by Accelleron experts.
Through the new Turbo MarineCare™ Agreement, Accelleron will provide peace of mind with guaranteed turbocharger servicing coverage to five AMCL vessels, inclusive of all spare parts, labour, and transport, based on a fixed service agreement price. This removes fluctuations in lifetime turbocharger maintenance cost by eliminating the risk of unexpected expenses arising during a service event.
Under Turbo MarineCare™, AMCL will have a single point of contact at Accelleron who will coordinate all maintenance activities, with only one purchase order and invoice issued for each servicing event. This will significantly reduce the administrative burden for AMCL.
Associated Maritime (Hong Kong) Co. Ltd, said: “Ensuring the continuous uptime of our fleet is of immense importance. The service that Accelleron offers is very much aligned with our business objectives of protecting vessel uptime and digitalization. We will use the digital platform to monitor the health status of all turbochargers under maintenance contract and ensure that turbocharger maintenance events are proactively undertaken under the guidance and expert services provided by Accelleron.”
Jin-woo Seong, General Manager at Accelleron Turbo Systems (Hong Kong) Ltd, added: “Although contractually this is a deal forged between supplier and customer, the relationship between Accelleron and AMCL is more like a business partnership. We are honoured to provide our turbocharging maintenance service to AMCL vessels for the first time, with a shared vision between Accelleron and AMCL and a strong relationship.”
Windea Leibniz ready to boost offshore wind power expansion in the Baltic and North Sea
The BSM-managed Service Operation Vessel (SOV) Windea Leibniz has finished an extensive upgrade at Ulstein Shipyard in Norway, making her even more attractive for the offshore market.
With an increase of cabins from 60 to over 80, the vessel has transitioned from an SOV to a Commissioning Service Operation Vessel (CSOV). Additionally, the ship received one extra pedestal on the stern for Baltic Sea operations to complement the existing pedestal for North Sea use.
The upgrade of Windea Leibniz was timed perfectly as European governments want to expand renewable energy capacities in the Baltic and North Sea, points out BSM (Bernhard Schulte Shipmanagement). Last year the EU had a capacity of approximately 15 gigawatts (GW) in offshore wind power production. Germany alone is aiming to double their capacities by 2030. According to the German government, this equals an expansion of offshore wind energy to at least 30 GW by 2030, with at least 40 GW of installed capacity by 2035 and at least 70 GW by 2045.
“Offshore wind is an essential part for the success and the transformation of the energy sector towards sustainable and green solutions. The upgrade makes Windea Leibniz even more attractive for the market,” says Matthias Mueller, Managing Director of shipowner Bernhard Schulte Offshore.
“Windea Leibniz is now ready to support the planned offshore wind power expansion in Northern Europe. The ultra-modern SOV was built in 2017 at Ulstein Shipyard for Bernhard Schulte Offshore to efficiently service offshore wind farms in the North Sea. The vessel functions as a reliable and environmentally sound platform for wind farm operations and maintenance support, technician accommodation and transport, and the provision of safe and reliable access to offshore installations.
The upgrade included a 50% increase of accommodation capacities on board. Therefore, extensive reconstruction measures including shifting of the changing/drying rooms, conference rooms and day rooms were executed. In total the cabin capacity was increased from 63 to 81 cabins. Now Windea Leibniz can accommodate up to 85 technical staff for wind farms, service personnel and crew.
The second major milestone was the installation of a new height-adjustable pedestal for the motion compensating gangway, making the vessel more flexible in offshore wind farms. Now the gangway can operate in a range between 17.5 metres and 23 metres height above waterline when fully extended.
The third milestone focused on the installation of a second pedestal for the gangway at stern. It enables Windea Leibniz to also sail in offshore wind parks in the Baltic Sea where service platforms are generally lower located than in the North Sea.
Rainer Mueller, Captain on the Windea Leibniz, says: "With the two new pedestals, we are more flexible when approaching the service platforms for the wind turbines. There is no uniform standard for the height of the platforms in North Sea wind farms. After the yard stay, we can now vary with the height of our gangway. With the Baltic pedestal at stern, we can easily switch our gangway from the North Sea height to the lower Baltic Sea height, which makes us even more flexible when working in different wind farm regions."
Jumbo Offshore combines precision lifting skills with engineering expertise for Technip FMC job
Jumbo Offshore has completed the transportation and wet storage of a riser caisson for Technip FMC. Jumbo carried out the job in October, deploying its heavy-lift vessel Fairplayer to handle the 120-metre long and 1.3-metre diameter caisson.
The Fairplayer picked up the caisson from the Scottish port of Nigg, an operation that demanded a finely tuned rigging arrangement due to the high flexibility of the caisson. To this end, each of the Fairplayer’s 900-tonne cranes used double slings and a total of five connection points.
After transporting the caisson to the offshore location, Jumbo then executed the wet storage scope of the project. Wet storage is the temporary storage of offshore components on the seabed, which in the case of this particularly delicate caisson, called for careful operations.
The offshore scope was the most challenging, says Jumbo’s Project Manager Carol Granneman: “Due to the motions of the waves and the buoyancy of the caisson, the most critical moment was when we lowered the caisson through the splash zone,” he says. “And then we had to lower it evenly through the water column to avoid excessive stresses in the caisson.”
The preparatory engineering of this project is also notable. Having worked together on numerous occasions in the past, Technip FMC and Jumbo Offshore have a good working relationship. For this riser caisson project, the two companies worked together on the project engineering. Technip FMC carried out the calculations for the rigging, and Jumbo worked on the vessel-specific calculations regarding the Fairplayer’s movement at different phases of the operation.
Once positioned on the seabed, Jumbo used an ROV to disconnect the caisson, leaving two rigging points in position to allow Technip FMC to pick it up for installation at a later date.
“This job involved the careful handling of fragile offshore equipment. But with our experienced crews and engineering teams, combined with the dual cranes of the Fairplayer, Jumbo Offshore had the technical capabilities and offshore expertise that made this precision operation a success,” notes Granneman. “Technip FMC is a very valued client of ours and we look forward to working with their team in the future.”
Eastern Pacific Shipping to trial Starlink service within Marlink’s smart hybrid network
Smart network solutions company Marlink is adding Starlink LEO connectivity to Eastern Pacific Shipping’s (EPS) existing smart hybrid network as the Singapore-based ship manager looks to enhance business operations and seafarer wellbeing services across its fleet.
The Starlink service will initially be trialled onboard selected vessels, smoothly integrated into the smart blend of networks fully managed by Marlink, which already serves the majority of the EPS fleet with VSAT connectivity and multiple L-band backup alternatives.
A Marlink customer since 2016, EPS has progressively adopted digital solutions to support the efficiency and safety of its operations. This includes a strong focus on digitalisation, sustainability, covering all aspects of environmental protection and programs to enhance crew welfare.
EPS is currently undergoing unprecedented growth with an expanding orderbook increasing the fleet size to 21m DWT under management. To manage this exponential growth in a fast-changing environment, EPS is shifting its culture from managing ships to leading people. Supporting this culture shift is the EPS Life at Sea Programme – a robust initiative designed to improve the long term mental and physical wellbeing of its 6,000 strong workforce.
“Marlink is the right partner to help EPS evaluate and potentially adopt new services that can enhance our operational and seafarer wellbeing strategies,” said Max Wong, Head of IT , Eastern Pacific Shipping. “These trials will provide us with insights into how high throughput and low latency data transfer capabilities will affect business use cases on our vessels. We are optimistic that a successful trial will enable us to accelerate technology adoption, allowing us to do more with less.”
“The focus on new LEO services as a component of the Marlink smart hybrid network is increasing rapidly as shipowners focus on new ways to deliver crew welfare and smart connectivity services,” said Tore Morten Olsen, President, Maritime, Marlink. “Our partnership with Eastern Pacific creates the opportunity to understand and evaluate what Starlink can bring to the table alongside our established hybrid network offering.”
DNV white paper outlines suggestions to achieve a sustainable maritime ecosystem in India
DNV has released a white paper which studies India's potential to deliver a sustainable future for its maritime industry. Commissioned by the Royal Norwegian Consulate General in Mumbai, the 'Indian Coastal Green Shipping Programme' white paper offers recommendations based on the experience from Norway to build a greener shipping sector, while providing an effective framework for collaboration.
The paper comes amid closer cooperation between India and Norway, which are historic maritime trading partners, to enable a future green shipping sector and achieve common goals through bilateral dialogue.
The white paper outlines 13 key recommendations based on DNV’s analysis of India's maritime sector and how it can build upon the experiences from the Norwegian Green Shipping Programme, a centrepiece of the country's shift to a greener industry. Some recommendations include:
- creating markets for green technology and establishing infrastructure for green shipping,
- establishing maritime clusters and increasing cooperation between industry stakeholders throughout the value chain, and
- training the workforce to adapt to greener technologies.
It concludes India's shipping industry path is best driven through partnerships and will help fast-track the industry's uptake of greener, innovative solutions.
"We hope the white paper on the Indian Coastal Green Shipping Programme will be beneficial in building a green maritime and shipping industry in India and providing a useful framework for continued collaboration between Norway and India," said Arne Jan Flølo, Consul General, Royal Norwegian Consulate General Mumbai. "A green shift in the shipping industry is crucial to reach our climate goals and a prerequisite for a sustainable ocean economy," he added.
Dr. Shahrin Osman, Head of Maritime Advisory, South East Asia, Pacific & India at DNV, said: "As India rises to become one of the three largest economies in the world in 2050, the maritime sector is in an excellent position to achieve green growth. This white paper sets the pathway for the entire maritime ecosystem in India and learning from the success of Norway's Green Shipping Programme."
Cristina Saenz de Santa Maria, Regional Manager, South East Asia, Pacific & India, Maritime at DNV, commented: "This paper identifies opportunities and finds cutting-edge solutions to help strengthen the country's institutional, economic, and human resource capabilities to achieve its carbon reduction goals. It will be a crucial development as Asia plays an important role in decarbonizing international shipping by 2050."
The report seeks to complement the enormous efforts now being undertaken by India and Norway to enable the Asian powerhouse to transition its maritime sector to a more sustainable one. A recent example is the Kochi Water Metro project, India’s first battery-powered electric ferry fleet consisting of 23 vessels, built to DNV class at Cochin Shipyard.
Tankers International launches CII feature for popular VLCC fixture app
The Tankers International shipping pool for VLCCs has announced the launch of a new CII (Carbon Intensity Indicator) feature for its popular VLCC fixture app, which uses Tankers International's comprehensive market data to calculate indicative voyage CII scores for all market fixtures.
The new CII reporting mechanism uses Tankers International's extensive knowledge of the global VLCC fleet to benchmark any vessel's bunker consumption against the closest similar vessel out of the 250 vessels that have traded in the Tankers International pool since 2000. This is set against a benchmark speed, which adapts based on Tankers International's own data on averages across the sector and market conditions.
CII regulations came into effect at the start of January 2023, and represent an ongoing annual measure of the carbon intensity of a ship's operations in terms of its greenhouse gas emissions relative to the amount of cargo carried and the distance travelled.
The Tankers International VLCC fixture app's new CII functionality gives shipowners, charterers, and brokers insight into where a vessel or voyage is ranked on the CII scale, helping to make strategic chartering or operational decisions.
The app's data will show a precise analysis and a breakdown of how a voyage CII score is calculated, so a shipowner will know how their voyage is ranked and where they may need to improve. In addition, if a voyage incurred a long idle period, the app will provide two clearly labelled and accurate CII estimates to account for this. Calculations are listed in full for PLUS and PRO users.
The Tankers International VLCC fixture app was first launched in 2014 and is the only publicly available source of fixture data for the global VLCC fleet. The app was re-launched in December 2021, and the new CII feature will allow users to integrate even more quality data and analysis into negotiations and strategic decision making. This added insight and market transparency will benefit the entire VLCC sector.
Charlie Grey, Chief Operating Officer, Tankers International, commented: "Many people are still uncertain about how to keep up with shipping's latest regulation, and we recognise the importance and need for quality data, faster to support decision making for shipowners, charterers and brokers. We foresee CII ratings impacting commercial decisions across the sector this year, and providing access to this voyage specific CII information will support key market stakeholders – helping them adhere to decarbonisation regulations and recognise market trends more quickly."
UK Government announces £77 million funding available for maritime green tech projects
Zero-emission ferries, cruises and cargo ships will set sail in UK waters within two years, creating thousands of new jobs, thanks to a £77 million government investment in clean maritime technology.
This is the first time in UK history the Government is intervening to specifically target this level of funding on green maritime tech which is already well developed. The funding will take the tech from the factory to the sea – identifying which projects will have a long-term impact in reducing emissions.
Successful projects must be able to show they could use this money to work with major UK ports and operators to launch a zero-emission vessel by 2025 at the latest.
Examples of such technology include battery electric vessels, shoreside electrical power, ships running on low carbon fuels like hydrogen or ammonia, and wind-assisted ferries.
Transport Secretary Mark Harper (pictured) said: “When it comes to tackling climate change, we are taking action on all transport modes, which is why we’re making sure our world-leading maritime sector has a greener future.
“This multi-million-pound investment will help the latest tech ideas become reality and ensure UK waters will play host to green cargo ships, ferries and cruises in the next few years.
“Our funding will support a cleaner freight system, a more environmentally friendly tourism industry, and a net-zero maritime sector.”
“The multi-million-pound Zero Emission Vessels and Infrastructure (ZEVI)competition - launched Monday 6th February - will see innovative companies apply for the funding, which must be used to decarbonise technology both on board and shoreside.
“The investment demonstrates the Government’s commitment to a new green age for maritime travel which is free from emissions, in line with the 1.5-degree temperature target set by the Paris Agreement.
Defence Secretary and Shipbuilding Tsar, Ben Wallace, said: “Our National Shipbuilding Strategy Refresh set ambitious plans to drive the green maritime revolution as a key step to reaching this Government’s net zero targets.
“This investment is a clear statement that we are taking these plans seriously, helping to put the UK at the cutting edge of clean maritime technology while benefitting thousands of UK jobs.”
The competition will be overseen by Innovate UK, which has a record of delivering similar competitions across Government successfully.
Innovate UK Executive Director for Net Zero Mike Biddle said: “This latest £77m investment in clean maritime innovation is another major milestone in the delivery of the wider UK SHORE programme to accelerate the transition to Net Zero.
“Innovate UK will work closely with the Department for Transport in the delivery of the Zero Emission Vessel and Infrastructure competition which will result in multi-year real world demonstrations of clean maritime technologies around the UK.”
The Government is also calling on universities across the UK to join forces to establish a new Clean Maritime Research Hub, with £7.4m funding from government and additional funding from academia and industry.
Research in the fundamental science behind clean maritime technologies will be delivered by the hub, building evidence and expertise for the maritime sector. It will also support skills development across the industry and generate knowledge for maritime decision-makers.
The hub will be delivered in partnership with, and co-funded by, the Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council (EPSRC), part of UK Research and Innovation (UKRI).
The ZEVI fund and Clean Maritime Research Hub are part of the UK Shipping Office for Reducing Emissions (UK SHORE) programme which was launched in March 2022 with £206 million in funding. UK SHORE aims to tackle shipping emissions and advance the UK towards a sustainable shipping future.
Port of Los Angeles releases draft Request for Proposals on cruise terminal development
The Port of Los Angeles is inviting comments on a draft Request for Proposals (RFP) for the future development of a new Outer Harbor Cruise Terminal and redevelopment of the existing World Cruise Center on the LA Waterfront.
“This cruise development initiative is critical to our business, our community and the LA Waterfront, and we want to make sure it’s done right,” said Port of Los Angeles Executive Director Gene Seroka. “Each cruise ship that calls the Port of Los Angeles generates more than $1 million into the local economy, so it’s important that we maximize our opportunities to bring more visitors and revenue into the community.”
The Port is already experiencing a post-COVID cruise industry rebound, with 229 cruise ship calls in 2022, the most since 2008. Such calls are expected to rise to an estimated 250 by 2026 and include larger ships carrying more passengers.
The RFP scope includes development, redevelopment and management of all cruise operations at the Port. The planned project will entail development of a new Outer Harbor Cruise Terminal at Berths 45-51, a site that offers panoramic views of the coastline and Catalina Island. It consists of 13 acres of backland, two existing wharves and 14 acres of associated off-site parking. A new Environmental Impact Report (EIR) may be required as part of the Outer Harbor Terminal development process.
The existing Los Angeles World Cruise Center, also called the Inner Harbor Cruise Terminal, will be redeveloped under the RFP scope as well. Located at Berths 87-93, it consists of 22 acres, two existing cruise berths, two existing terminal buildings and a baggage handling structure.
“Issuing a draft RFP for input allows us to leverage the expertise and creativity of prospective proposers, as well as get important feedback from businesses, the local community and public,” said Michael Galvin, Director of Waterfront and Commercial Real Estate at the Port of Los Angeles. “This collaborative approach gives us the best opportunity for success.”
The draft RFP can be downloaded from the Port of Los Angeles website. The deadline to submit comments is Friday, March 3, at 3 p.m. Pacific.
Columbia Group unveils ambitious plans for ground-breaking new digital platform to boost vessel performance
The operational performance of a vessel is set to be boosted with an innovative new digital solution designed to provide a holistic ship management system that brings together the fragmented capabilities of data collection and analysis under one platform.
The project, which is a collaboration between Columbia Shipmanagement (CSM), Blue Dynamics (BD) and the Cyprus Marine and Maritime Institute (CMMI), has been two years in the making and is due to be launched in July 2023. The project is co-funded by the European Union, and the Republic of Cyprus via the Research and Innovation Foundation.
Columbia’s PANGIA consortium focuses on what Pankaj Sharma, Columbia Group Director Digital Performance Optimisation, refers to as “the user of the future” and banks on their growing up immersed in technologies that will play a critical role in the industry’s evolution. The PANGIA vision creates something for that future that includes holo-lenses and virtual reality synaptic technology offers a “hands-on” experience, not only for training but also extending to onboard maintenance, connecting shoreside expertise with personnel at sea.
Through advanced data analytics and expert human input, the platform plans to boost vessel performance, reduce fuel consumption, and, through machine learning, offer proactive maintenance planning and the early detection of health hazards to protect the health and safety of crews and passengers onboard the ships.
The PANGIA tool offers a range of services to ship managers, operators, owners and banks, among others. The services include data management, standardisation, and advanced data analytics and machine learning application to identify trends and help with maintenance planning. Through PANGIA, Columbia’s clients benefit from improved digitalization driven by AI. The POCR can collate and interpret an array of industry intelligence that allows its clients to optimize their decision-making processes regardless of where any vessel in their fleet is located.
Mark O’Neil, Columbia Group CEO, said: “The PANGIA project has been the result of a productive collaboration between CSM, BD and CMMI, looking to produce a revolutionary new platform for ship managers and operators that integrates the currently fragmented capabilities of data collection and analysis.
“Columbia is proud to be working with our partners on this pioneering development of our Performance Optimization Control Room (POCR) and to be leading the way in ground-breaking projects to promote sustainability, while utilising the very best of technological advancements to protect the environment and deliver cost efficiencies to ship managers and operators.”
PANGIA is the evolution of the POCR services that Columbia has developed over the past three years, and Columbia now seeks to pave the way for leading technological advancements to enhance sustainability and deliver cost-cutting solutions. One of the objectives of Columbia’s POCR is to set the company apart from its competition with a more proactive approach to ship management, effectively initiating oversight of a vessel’s transit voyage before it even starts. A relatively new aspect of this approach is the monitoring of sanction areas and other areas of increased risk.
-ENDS-
Reygar secures InnovateUK funding for FleetVision project with Penguin International
Award-winning vessel monitoring and control solutions provider, Reygar, has won InnovateUK funding to develop a range of new features for its successful BareFLEET product in collaboration with Singapore-based designer, builder, owner and operator of high-speed aluminium craft, Penguin International Limited.
The project, dubbed FleetVision, will build on Reygar’s commercially proven BareFLEET technology to offer live feedback on various aspects of vessel performance, leveraging Penguin’s extensive experience in shipbuilding and ship management.
Machine learning tools will be jointly developed to identify operating efficiency and cost reduction opportunities and to monitor machinery health, alongside adaptations that will enable more vessel types to benefit from the system.
Penguin designs and builds a range of aluminium workboats which it also owns and operates. Since 1995, Penguin has delivered over 200 aluminium vessels to ship owners globally and is the world’s biggest builder of multi-role crew boats.
Both Reygar and Penguin envisage long-term, mutual benefits, with the project acting as a potential launch pad for access to new technology and target markets.
James Tham, Penguin’s Managing Director, sees vast potential in the application of data- driven performance monitoring technology to enhance efficiency and emission reductions for commercial high-speed vessels.
“FleetVision represents the coming together of proven expertise and experience in real-time remote monitoring technology and the design, construction and operation of efficient, human-centric high-speed workboats. The outcome will be an intelligent performance analytics and decision support tool, developed by experienced practitioners, for sustainable high-speed vessel operations.”
Reygar was founded in 2012 by Chris Huxley-Reynard and Felix Francis, both of whom have extensive, hands-on experience in offshore renewables, maritime operations and the application of new technologies for efficient fleet operations. Applying that understanding of the practical challenges faced by mariners and vessel operators has been key in developing the company’s simple to use and cost-effective technology.
Chris Huxley-Reynard, CEO of Reygar, said: “We are passionate about helping fleet operators make better, more informed decisions to reduce fuel consumption and emissions. Live feedback on vessel performance means that a range of cost, fuel and emissions saving opportunities can be seen and acted upon in real time, optimising operations both onboard and from the shore. Leveraging machine learning to help identify trends in machinery health and vessel performance also improves availability and supports the achievement of operating efficiency goals.”
FleetVision kicked off towards the end of 2022 and is expected to run over the next two years. The collaborative research and development project is funded by Innovate UK, part of UK Research and Innovation, and in partnership with Enterprise Singapore.
Stream Marine Group announced as Gold Sponsor of LISW23
Leading provider of maritime safety training and experts in alternative fuels, Stream Marine Group (SMG), is delighted to be welcomed as a Gold Sponsor of London International Shipping Week 2023 (LISW23).
SMG has experienced considerable growth over the past few years and, as it prepares to enter its second decade of business in 2024, is helping lead the industry meet maritime’s decarbonisation goals with the launch of its alternative fuels consultancy service Stream Marine Technical.
The Group, which is based in Glasgow, UK, is made of Stream Marine Technical, Stream Marine Training, and Stream Marine Careers, which offers Cadet programmes to young talent wanting to work in the maritime industry.
The theme of LISW23, ‘Reframing risk in a complex market’, is tailor-made for the concept of a union between the maritime and nuclear industries; both sectors need to transition over the coming years and have complementary attributes. The UK Government has also committed to both sectors that it wants to achieve a series of ambitious targets.
Stream Marine Technical is working with some of the world’s leading brands in helping them transition to a more sustainable future with the use of alternative fuels, in line the maritime 2030 and 2050 decarbonisation goals.
Martin White, CEO of SMG, said: “We are delighted to be welcomed as one of the major sponsors of LISW23. We are fully aligned with the theme for this year, with our vision to help lead the industry to decarbonisation.
“LISW is an industry-leading event in the maritime calendar bringing some of the biggest maritime leaders from around the world to London. It was the perfect choice for SMG to be involved with and we are looking forward to meeting key players in the industry and looking at how we can all work together to achieve decarbonisation to ensure a sustainable future for shipping.”
SMG will be holding its own exclusive event on Monday, September 11 on Tower Bridge where it will invite high-level industry leaders to share knowledge and expertise surrounding decarbonisation and the future maritime goals. It will also be launching its support and consultancy service for alternative fuels Stream Marine Technical.
Guests will include the first movers in the use of alternative fuels and industry experts in decarbonisation. The event will be an evening of networking and industry discussion of success stories, challenges and how to lead the way into decarbonisation.
LISW23 will be held in the week of September 11-15, 2023 and will play host to the maritime world with hundreds of events attracting thousands of international industry decision makers into London during the week. The headline LISW23 Conference will be held on Wednesday September 13th while the LISW23 Gala Dinner will be held on Thursday September 14th.
For further information visit the website: www.londoninternationalshippingweek.com
IMO issues call for views on Global Integrated Shipping Information System
The IMO Secretariat is asking users of the Global Integrated Shipping Information System (GISIS) to complete a questionnaire to understand their views on the operation, effectiveness and efficiency of the system. Findings from the survey will play a pivotal role in formulating proposals for the improvement and further utilization of the system.
GISIS is a comprehensive online hub for the collection, processing and sharing of shipping-related data. It includes a wide range of modules, including those on: contact points; global SAR plan; incidents of piracy; marine casualties; ship and company particulars; and port reception facilities.
It is designed to assist IMO Member States and the Secretariat in carrying out their respective and complementary duties. There is a publicly accessible version of GISIS which provides 27 modules with information about shipping. Registration is required.
The questionnaire, running until 6 March 2023, is open to Member States, international organisations and public users with an IMO web account. It includes questions about the platform’s search functionality, presentation of information, and ease of navigation.
Access the questionnaire here or navigate to it via GISIS.
The survey follows the decision of the IMO Secretary-General to undertake a holistic review of GISIS, to enhance the utilization and efficacy of the platform. The review process aims to evaluate the functionality of each GISIS module in depth and identify specific actions to improve the portal and the overall user experience.
Survey findings will also provide valuable information to a recently launched project, "Establishment of an IT-enabled programme for improved data analysis to support policy development and decision-making at IMO". One of its aims is to develop GISIS as the Organization's main repository of operational data, whilst also providing a framework for the utilization and analysis of data to support the work of IMO.
At the IMO Council’s 128th session, the Secretary-General was invited to provide additional information to a future meeting on the status and outcome of the GISIS review and data management project. Evidence from the GISIS survey will inform discussions at a future IMO Council session.
Wilhelmsen Ship Management and Affinity Shipping team up to launch full EU ETS services
Wilhelmsen Ship Management (WSM) and Affinity Shipping have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to jointly establish an independent company that will provide comprehensive compliance services related to the EU ETS (European Union Emission Trading System).
The company’s offering will be the first of its kind, offering a complete outsourcing service for shipping ETS management. The service integrates technical ship management and carbon allowance procurement to support shipowners, managers, and operators in the new era of emissions compliance.
Following the agreement in December among EU negotiators to include maritime shipping in the EU ETS, ship owners and operators will need to acquire emission permits for 40% of their applicable emissions in 2024, increasing to 70% in 2025, and 100% in 2026 and every year thereafter.
WSM brings technical management expertise to the table, including verification of emissions reports and compliance with the existing EU Monitoring, Reporting and Verification (MRV) framework, while Affinity brings experience in the sale and purchase of carbon products, EU Allowances (EUA) registry management, analysis of ETS exposure, and regulated advice on emissions markets.
“We are delighted to be collaborating with Affinity on this important initiative, which will bring added value to customers and ensure full transparency in the whole value chain,” said Carl Schou (pictured, left), CEO and President of WSM. “The partnership aims to provide a seamless transition into EU ETS compliance, as well as prioritizing our clients’ interest by managing emission allowance in the most efficient way possible.”
Richard Fulford-Smith (right), Managing Partner at Affinity Shipping, added: “We look forward to working with WSM to launch the company that will provide a turnkey solution for ship owners’ and operators’ needs in the way of emissions reporting and trading support. It’s a powerful pooling of expertise that furthers our aim to assist clients in managing their financial exposure to the approaching energy transition.”
WSM is the ship management arm of the Wilhelmsen group and one of the industry’s largest third-party ship managers with the most extensive global maritime network. Affinity Shipping has had a carbon desk since 2018 and provides client-specific regulated advice and agency broker services for carbon emissions management. The new joint venture company will be based in Oslo, Norway.
IUMI to play key role as marine insurers face challenging conditions
The International Union of Marine Insurance (IUMI) yesterday held its annual Winter Meeting in London, its first meeting of the year. Fundamental challenges facing the marine insurance market were on the agenda, and IUMI said it would play an important role this year as it meets difficult conditions.
Speaking at its winter meeting, Frédéric Denèfle, President of IUMI, said: "IUMI has a responsibility to navigate and support the marine insurance industry. A downturn in trade, geopolitical tensions, inflation, Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) factors - as well as onboard safety - are all creating complexity.
"We remain fully committed to assisting our members and providing comprehensive guidelines to the larger marine insurance market."
One of the many challenges that marine insurers are facing is the reluctance of the reinsurance market to provide cover for risks involved in insuring maritime vessels in war-related regions. The question insurance companies face: How would they find their way around the risks without the support of reinsurers?
Marine insurers are also currently confronted with geopolitical challenges amid ongoing sanctions, the war in Ukraine and increasing tensions in Southeast Asia.
Also, there has been a significant recent reduction in demand, resulting in slower vessel turnarounds in ports due to low cargo volumes. This, together with declining freight rates, shows that the market is decreasing. In turn, it impacts marine insurance as there is far less value to insure.
However, Denèfle told delegates that digitalisation must remain at the forefront of developments in the industry.
"Keeping up to date with data-led innovations and digitalisation is essential for marine insurers. This includes the technical development of vessels and the ongoing challenges regarding fires on container and RoRo vessels. IUMI must advocate for proper regulations to address these challenges.”
IUMI provides a forum to discuss and exchange ideas, information, and statistics of common interest for marine underwriters and in exchange with other maritime professionals. It currently represents 42 national and marine market insurance and reinsurance associations.
Maersk reports ‘extraordinary’ $30bn profit for 2022, predicts far lower result this year
Maersk reports that 2022 proved an exceptionally strong year with the company posting an extraordinary financial performance in line with its full-year guidance; Revenue increased by 32% to $81.5bn, and EBIT increased 57% to $30.9bn.
The unprecedented financial results were driven by solid performance across all businesses during the abnormal market conditions in the first part of the year. Ocean delivered the strongest result on record due to the high freight rates and strong demand, particularly in the first half of the year. Ocean revenue was up 33%.
In Logistics & Services, revenue increased by 47%, with an organic contribution of 21%. The organic revenue growth came primarily from top 200 customers as the business continues to develop integrated solutions to meet end to end supply chain needs. Growth was particularly strong in warehousing where the footprint more than doubled to 7.1m sqm with the acquisition of LF Logistics alone adding 198 warehouses or 3.1m sqm.
In Terminals, EBIT adjusted for the Russia exit reached a record of USD 1.2bn, supported by solid volumes growth and high congestion related storage income. Based on a combination of tariff increases and efficiencies the impact of high global inflation has been mitigated.
For 2023, Maersk expects that inventory correction will be complete by the end of the first half leading to a more balanced demand environment. Global GDP growth is expected to be muted and global ocean container market growth to be in a range of -2.5% to +0.5%. Based on these assumptions, it predicts an underlying EBITDA of $8-11 bn for the Group in 2023 with an underlying EBIT of $2-5bn.
Prosmar Bunkering now providing bunker market data to underpin Baltic Exchange’s TCE Calculations
Prosmar Bunkering, a ZeroNorth company, has today announced it has become the new provider of bunker prices for Baltic Exchange, the leading independent source of maritime market information.
The deal will see Baltic Exchange use Prosmar Bunkering’s market-leading bunker price data to calculate Time Charter Equivalents (TCE) for vessels across the global fleet.
Prosmar Bunkering’s organized pool of bunker purchase data is based on actual stems from other companies that have opted in to share their data. This pool of data will support and strengthen Baltic Exchange’s value proposition to their customers, by ensuring they’re able to make accurate TCE calculations.
Speaking on the announcement, Ali Jourabchi (pictured), CEO, Prosmar Bunkering, said: “We’re delighted to become the new provider of bunker price information for the Baltic Exchange and its prestigious customer base. Bunker price information is one of the key metrics around which shipping operates, and having access to accurate and up-to-date information is intrinsic to successful commercial performance. We look forward to supporting Baltic Exchange and having our market-leading data ensure more accurate calculations for their customers.”
Isabella Kurek Smith, Channel Partners Lead, Baltic Exchange, added: “By having Prosmar Bunkering support us with end-of-day data, to underpin our TCE calculations, we are able to create more value for the owners, brokers, charterers and traders who use our assessments. They’re able to make accurate, trustworthy calculations, and improve the foundation for commercially sound decision-making.”
Early detection is key to preventing shipboard electric vehicle fires, advises Survitec
Following several high-profile ship fires involving electric vehicles (EVs), leading Survival Technology solutions provider Survitec is advising operators of vessels transporting hybrid and EVs – such as ferries, ropaxes, roros, PCCs and PCTCs – on how best to prevent and control fire onboard ship involving lithium-ion batteries.
As part of ongoing initiatives within the industry to improve safety, there is a drive to develop early fire detection systems to better monitor and protect car decks and lithium-ion batteries installed in vehicles onboard. Any slight deviation in their properties can provide an early indication that conditions are right for a fire and afford time to take preventative measures to protect or quarantine hybrid and EVs.
Pre-ignition signs of a battery fire include heat and smoke from parts of the vehicle where the battery is usually placed, popping sounds from battery cells, and toxic gas emissions.
While early detection solutions are readily available, Rafal Kolodziejski (pictured), Survitec’s Head of Product Support & Development - Fire Systems, revealed that these systems are not yet adapted to allow for pre-fire conditions specific to lithium-ion batteries. That is, not only smoke and heat but also gas emissions, including, potentially, sound frequencies related to gas release.
“Monitoring car decks for early-stage fire conditions – typically any fluctuation in temperature or atmospheric condition – is critical to preventing fire propagation. The type and location of sensors are vitally important.”
Kolodziejski said that Survitec is investing “heavily in the development of new solutions capable of pre-ignition monitoring” and is working with a major ship operator to design a comprehensive fire detection and extinguishing system for the EV cargo deck of a new build PCC (Pure Car Carrier).
Currently in development, the company’s integrated graphical monitoring system can provide real-time status of all the fire-protected zones onboard. The monitoring system will link all the detection systems and sensors onboard to allow for the remote or local activation of a compartment’s fire suppression system.
“An EV battery fire is different to any other type of fire in that the battery generates explosive and toxic gases, increasing the size and propagation of the fire,” explained Kolodziejski.
“The heat is, therefore, more intense, and an extinguished fire can potentially reignite at any time until the battery is completely burnt down. This presents a real challenge regarding gas-based fixed fire systems, such as CO2. Traditionally, a system pack has sufficient gas for just one discharge in the event of a fire. Currently, classification societies propose that double the gas volume is provided, but this may not be enough to control fire or prevent reignition," he continued.
Water-based solutions provide the best cooling effect, which is crucial in the case of this type of fire. However, the volume of water required to control an EV deck fire could impact ship stability, so a suitable drainage system must also be considered.
Research shows that a water mist system has the highest efficiency for this type of fire. However, because battery modules are installed under the floor in most EVs, the most significant heat will be generated at deck level. There are various R&D initiatives investigating the best water spraying method for this. One of these solutions is a pop-up nozzle that sprays water mist upwards and fixed, and mobile solutions are now at the testing stage.
Fire onboard ships where EVs may be involved is now a genuine industry concern, and, referring to guidelines the European Maritime Safety Agency (EMSA) published in May last year, Kolodziejski highlights some of the recommendations currently being proposed to limit fire propagation and allow for effective monitoring of the environment around EV cargoes and also easy access in the event of a fire.
For example, EV car-carrying ship owners are urged to consider increasing the space between each vehicle or reducing the number of units transported. Some ship operators are already requesting that batteries in used or second-hand EVs are disconnected prior to shipment, especially if EVs or their batteries show signs of damage.
“Prevention is certainly better than the cure at the moment,” said Kolodziejski. “Early monitoring and detection are becoming increasingly important safety factors for ship operators and crew. With an EV cargo, the earlier the crew can detect pre-fire conditions, the better.”
Liberian Registry awards Approval in Principle to Anemoi’s Rotor Sail systems
The Liberian Registry has awarded an Approval in Principle (AIP) to Anemoi Marine Technologies for their Rotor Sail systems. Anemoi’s Rotor Sails are available with three deployment options - fixed to the deck, a folding type, and on rails that can be moved along or across the deck.
The folding and rail systems were validated on a Newcastlemax bulk carrier design from SDARI and issued an AIP by Lloyd’s Register. The Liberian Registry conducted a technical review of the documentation including Energy Efficiency Design Index (EEDI) calculations and, as a result, issued an AIP with estimated energy efficient improvements of about 20% in terms of EEDI performance.
Anemoi Rotor Sails were created to accelerate the industry’s transition to zero emission shipping by providing auxiliary propulsion to a vessel – this maintains vessel speed but allows the main engine to be powered down, resulting in fewer emissions.
Rotor Sails address new IMO environmental requirements for Carbon Intensity Indicator (CII) rating and Energy Efficiency Existing Ship Index (EEXI), which went into effect 1 January 2023 and are driving the need for the global fleet to continuously decarbonise. The ultimate goal being to reach zero-emission in line with the UN Paris Agreement.
Although wind propulsion has been around for approximately 5,000 years, its application to modern commercial vessels is innovative and can significantly contribute to the decarbonisation pursuit within the shipping industry. Anemoi’s Rotor Sail systems will not only improve EEDI performance, but also significantly reduce fuel consumption and cost. Rotor Sails are one of the most viable options to decarbonise international shipping and can be used in combination with other energy efficiency devices, new technologies, and alternative fuels.
Thomas Klenum, Executive Vice President, Innovation & Regulatory Affairs at LISCR said: “With the continuously increasing pressure on the global shipping fleet to accelerate decarbonisation to align with the temperature goals in the United Nations’ Paris agreement, it is imperative that viable solutions are brought to the market for both newbuidings and for existing ships to retrofit.
“Therefore, the Liberian Registry is extremely pleased with the collaboration with Anemoi, LR and SDARI to review and validate Anemoi’s Rotor Sail technology that have demonstrated an up to 20% energy reduction. Wind propulsion’s comeback to the merchant fleet is much welcome and true win-win situation.”
Kim Diederichsen, CEO of Anemoi, said: “This collaboration is a great example of organizations working together to create a brighter future for the maritime industry. The Liberian Registry have demonstrated their commitment to zero emission shipping by supporting Rotor Sail technology as a recognized solution. We are very pleased to receive this acknowledgement from a leading flag state and look forward to a long-standing relationship.”
ABS strengthens its technology leadership by appointing Patrick Ryan CTO
ABS has appointed Patrick Ryan (pictured) as Chief Technology Officer to support continued development of ABS as a maritime technology leader. Having served in the key executive leadership role of ABS Senior Vice President, Global Engineering and Technology since 2019, Ryan’s appointment to CTO reflects the increasingly pivotal role of technology in the global energy transition.
“ABS’ technology and safety leadership is at the heart of the maritime energy transition,” said Christopher J. Wiernicki, ABS Chairman, President and CEO. “It is a time of rapid and dramatic change where ABS’ deep sector insight, built up over 160 years at the forefront of marine and offshore energy innovation, is key to supporting owners as they navigate the challenges and opportunities presented by digitalization and decarbonization.
“Patrick’s leadership will ensure our world leading engineering and technology teams continue to build on their reputation for excellence and cutting-edge technology development and support. His appointment underscores how ABS is committed to continuing to lead the industry in the safe application of the technologies we will need to deliver net zero by 2050.”
As CTO, Ryan will serve as the lead technologist for the company, understanding broad industry trends and aligning innovations with ABS’ mission and client needs and he will continue to lead and be responsible for ABS’ global engineering, technology research and development, digital class, engineering software organizations, Global Simulation Center and the Global Ship Systems Center.
Throughout his career as a naval architect, Ryan has always been focused on cutting edge technologies around ships and ship building. Prior to joining ABS, he was in ship design, program management, and engineering leadership roles, at Newport News Shipbuilding. He graduated from Virginia Tech with a Bachelor’s degree in Aerospace and Ocean Engineering, and a Masters in Ocean Engineering.
VIKAND partners with Marc-Henry Cruise Holdings, joint owner/operator of Four Seasons Yachts
Global healthcare specialist VIKAND is partnering with Marc-Henry Cruise Holdings, joint owner/ operator of Four Seasons Yachts, to provide its maritime medical expertise in the design and installation of onboard medical facilities for the launch of Four Seasons’ new concept in luxury yacht experiences.
Four Seasons is bringing the legendary high standards, service and attention-to-detail of the Four Seasons Hotels and Resorts portfolio to the high seas.
With the first Four Seasons Yacht scheduled for delivery in 2025, VIKAND will provide Four Seasons Yachts with best-in-class medical advice to create a premium onboard healthcare management system to align with the Four Seasons brand.
VIKAND will help with the design of the medical facility, develop healthcare strategies, and recommendations for onboard medical equipment.
“We are so pleased to have been chosen by Marc-Henry Cruise Holdings to be its medical support partner for Four Seasons Yachts,” said Peter Hult, CEO of VIKAND. “Our relationship is testament to VIKAND’s ‘we can because we care’ philosophy of aiming to reach the highest standards in the medical world as Four Seasons does in the hospitality sector.
“We look forward to working with their teams to ensure the highest standards of medical facilities are provided for the guests and crew of this ultra-luxury yacht.”
“Choosing a partner who we can trust was vital. VIKAND has the necessary experience and capabilities to provide first-class medical solutions for our guests and crew,” said Thatcher Brown, Chief Commercial Officer and Joint Head of Operations of Marc-Henry Cruise Holdings. “We look forward to working closely with the VIKAND team in preparation for the launch of our unique luxury sailing experience.”
Stream Marine Group enjoys significant growth from Cadets and alternative fuels sides of business
Leading maritime safety training company Stream Marine Group (SMG) has reflected on its most successful year to date in 2022 after trading at twice its size pre-lockdown, thanks to a significant rise of companies seeking its expertise in alternative fuels training.
Last year saw SMG bring the three arms of the business – Stream Marine Training, Stream Marine Careers and Stream Marine Technical under the Group, with the launch of its new alternative fuel’s consultancy services.
The Glasgow-based company prides itself on training the new generation of seafarers in maritime safety and working with alternative fuels, developing the talent of the future with its Cadets programme and recognising the skills and achievements of its own staff.
Group Operations Director Katy Womersley joined the Group in 2020 when she was brought in to oversee the operations of Stream Marine Careers and the development of its Cadets programme. This area has seen incredible growth, both in terms of shipping companies using the service and the increase in recruitment. She has now been credited for her part in the success of the programme, which has seen the number of Cadets under Stream Marine Careers management triple in the past year.
Ms Womersley has since gone on to be promoted to Group Operations Director and now oversees the operations in all three divisions of the business.
Founder Martin White said: “SMG is going from strength to strength and I am delighted last year we saw our biggest rate of growth to date. Bringing Katy in as Operations Director is no coincidence and she has very much been instrumental in our growth.
"Our three divisions have been brought together and streamlined and everyone is united in our vision for the future, thanks to Katy’s input. I would like to thank her for all her hard work and dedication.”
As the shipping industry transitions into providing a more sustainable future with the IMO’s decarbonisation targets to cut greenhouse gas emissions by at least half by 2050, SMG has seen significant growth in companies coming to them for their training courses in alternative fuels, as well their consultation services to help guide them into the green revolution.
The Group is also preparing for the launch of Offshore Petroleum Industry Training Organisation (OPITO) approved courses in 2023, which equip people with the vital safety training required for people working in the offshore industry.
Ms Womersley said: “I am delighted to be part of the Group and all of its achievements. It is a lovely accolade to be recognised as part of its success, but I truly believe it is down to the whole team. We have an enormous amount of talent and experience here at SMG, and we are all dedicated and aligned in our vision for a greener future.
“We have seen fantastic growth regarding our Cadet programme. It’s fantastic to be working with the talent of the future, inspiring and nurturing them, and it is testament to the dedication and hard work of everyone involved - as we had experienced a slight downturn during the pandemic with uncertainty around worldwide travel restrictions. I am looking forward to 2023 as we deliver Global Wind Organisation (GWO) and OPITO training alongside our existing maritime portfolio of existing courses."
Temm Maritime harnesses Ocean Learning Platform content to support crew with safety advice and ongoing career development
Leading Japanese ship manager Temm Maritime Co. Ltd. has signed an agreement with Ocean Technologies Group (OTG) to implement the award-winning Ocean Learning Platform (OLP) solution across its full fleet of bulkers and container vessels.
This new partnership will give Temm Maritime and its crews access to a wealth of premium e-learning titles covering personal safety, firefighting, cargo handling, ship handling & navigation, maintenance & repair, cyber security, and maritime legislation, as well as the suite of assessment tools integrated within OLP.
“Ocean Technologies Group is well respected for the quality of content and the tools it offers, and by choosing the OLP solution, we are able to give our seafarers access to high-quality e-learning that will contribute to their improved well-being and support their career growth,” said Katsuya Mito, President of Temm Maritime.
“The resources available in OLP will enable us to further align with RightShip's recent campaigns and support our teams on the important issues of mental health and environmental protection," he continued.
OLP will enable Temm Maritime crews to complete their training online or offline and Temm plans to utilise the communication tools within OLP to distribute company circulars and critical bulletins. The automatic synchronisation between ship and shore also promises to reduce the administrative workload for the management team onboard Temm’s vessels, with training records and crew sign-on/off information being automatically made available to staff in the office.
Andrew Ward, commercial director of APAC at Ocean Technologies Group, commented: "Temm Maritime has a proud history of innovation and adopting new technologies to improve the quality of its management services and the safety and well-being of its seafarers. We are delighted to be partnering with Temm and will provide them with ongoing support as they continue to further their commitment to safety and sustainability.”
Companies sign multiparty MOU to develop concept for launching, laying and storing sea mines
SS Defrence, DA-Group and FORCIT DefenceOY AB, both located in Finland, have signed a multiparty Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to corporate and jointly explore the potential in the development of launching, laying, and storing sea mines designed by and manufactured by DA-Group and FORCIT, such as but not limited to the BLOCKER and TURSO sea mines, into the Containerized Multi-Mission Module system called The Cube™ System.
The cooperation will be based on SH Defence’s modular mission concept, The Cube™ System with associated handling equipment, and will include design and conception; supported with DA-Group patented modular SUMICO naval minelaying concept.
Lars Gullaksen, Area Sales Director, SH Defence, said: “The Cube™ System from SH Defence is rapidly becoming the standard within modularization of maritime mission capabilities for naval, coastguard, and SAR vessels around the world, especially within NATO and around the Baltic Sea. Hence our motto The Cube – changing the game at sea.
Modern naval vessels must be capable of carrying out different missions and roles both in peacetime and wartime. Therefore, the easy and rapid exchange of capabilities is an increasing requirement for new buildings and the retrofit of naval vessels.”
He continued: “The Cube™ System, currently available with more than 300 different payloads from approximately 160 vendors, offers a flexible and cost-efficient solution that enables reconfiguration of a vessel in only a few hours.
This partnership with DA-Group and FORCIT allows us to jointly develop the multi-mission capabilities and expand the portfolio of payloads to include the most modern sea mines for the adaptability of both Scandinavian, NATO, and other foreign navies.”
Kristian Tornivaara, Chief Business Officer at DA-Group Defence and Aerospace, said: “We are excited to start the collaboration with SH Defence. They are now taking real action and provide world navies the future proof modular solution for naval minelaying. We have been working with sea mines and mission modularity for years and we have seen the need for such a system. This is also the reason for SUMICO patent, which now can be utilized in Cube System to enhance navies’ operational capabilities and flexibility.”
Hannu Hytti, Executive Vice President, Forcit Defence, said: “Forcit Defence has been developing and manufacturing modern naval mines since 1988. Recent developments in the security environment have emphasized the importance of sea denial and naval mine capabilities. With this partnership with SH Defence and DA Group we are able to provide world class full spectrum naval capabilities for maritime defence.
NAMEPA creates student board game to raise awareness of maritime industry
The North American Marine Environment Protection Association (NAMEPA) Maritime Adventures board game was launched at the association’s 15th Anniversary celebration last October to increase student engagement and awareness of the maritime industry and its role as the engine of global trade.
Thanks to sponsorship from The Pasha Group, NAMEPA’s interested education partners, associations, schools, and other K-12 programs will receive NAMEPA’s Maritime Adventures board game. In addition to demonstrating the value proposition of the maritime industry and preserving the marine environment, students will also be provided an invaluable resource for STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) skills.
“We often discuss the perception and public image of the maritime industry, or lack thereof. This is an incredible opportunity to not only educate students on the industry, but also to demonstrate the commitment the maritime industry is making in protecting the environment.” stated Molly Dushay, Education and Outreach Director at NAMEPA. “In addition to illustrating how vast and diverse the maritime industry is, K-12 students can explore career opportunities they may have not known they could access.”
The sponsorship from The Pasha Group will enable NAMEPA to produce and distribute the game to its education partners in Canada, the United States, Mexico and the Caribbean. The game follows the player’s ship on a port-to-port journey to transport its cargo. Along the way, it encounters real world situations which can either help, or hinder, its voyage.
“Proactive, collective stewardship of our marine environment is critical to protect and preserve our seas,” said George Pasha, IV, President and CEO, The Pasha Group. “NAMEPA’s Maritime Adventures board game is a fun and innovative approach to inspire and engage our current and future maritime workforce.”
“We want the public to understand the vital role that shipping plays in their lives, and the responsibility it takes to mitigate its impact on the marine environment” observed Carleen Lyden Walker, Co-Founder/CEO of NAMEPA. “Using tools like this game will bring the industry to life for students and make it more relatable, whether they live near a port or not.”
NAMEPA’s Maritime Adventures board game was developed by the organization’s interns as part of their summer program. NAMEPA offers an internship program that runs throughout the year, providing development opportunities in both marine science and the maritime industry.
To request your copy of NAMEPA’s Maritime Adventures board game, please contact Molly Dushay at m.dushay@namepa.net
GTMaritime attracts new talent as demand for data services soars
Fast-climbing demand for secure data communications between ship and shore has prompted GTMaritime to make three new staff appointments, each designed to overcome a specific challenge brought by the maritime industry’s digital transformation.
Chris Judge (pictured), Managing Director at GTMaritime, said: “As maritime digitalisation steadily progresses and data plays an increasingly important role in vessel operations, there is a growing need for secure reliable data communications services at sea. The addition of three talented and experienced new team members reflects our commitment to continuously improving and updating our solutions in line with the industry’s present and emerging requirements.”
As part of its strategy for continued growth, the company has appointed Anthony O’Hagan to the newly created role of Business Information Analyst. Taking ownership of GTMaritime’s commercial and operational datasets, O’Hagan has been tasked with their consolidation within a central database. Once completed, the resource is expected to offer new and original tools to support actionable, data-driven decision-making in communications.
In a second appointment, Daniel Doyle has joined GTMaritime as User Interface Designer, in a role which is also new for the company. Doyle has been tasked with enhancing the design of user-centric front-end solutions for new and existing GTMaritime products, working alongside fellow developers, external designers and the wider GTMaritime team to coordinate application design and functionality.
Meanwhile, Antonis Kalaitzis has joined GTMaritime as Technical Sales Engineer, in a specialised technical support role based in Greece which responds to rising regional demand. Kalaitzis brings with him a wealth of experience in computer technology and maritime satellite communications.
The latest expansion of the GTMaritime team is part of the company’s ongoing investment in talent as it enhances its product development and support expertise. In August 2022, GTMaritime announced the appointment of Patrick Berry as Junior Software Developer and Joseph Burthem as Customer Support Specialist.
With its solutions and services already a feature on board over 14,000 vessels worldwide, GT Maritime has been a key player in enabling maritime digitalisation through the provision of cyber secure data communications.
Opsealog calls for ‘data democratisation’ to improve maritime sustainability
French digitalization expert Opsealog has launched a white paper calling for greater data sharing across supply chains to help achieve shipping’s decarbonisation and sustainability ambitions.
The report calls for a more collaborative approach to digitalization in the maritime sector, so that all organisations can contribute their data insights and collectively share the benefits. It argues for the importance of putting the right architecture in place to make data easier to collect, share and analyse by organisations, big or small. This includes the need to standardise data formats to break siloes and make data accessible.
Arnaud Dianoux, Founder and Managing Director of Opsealog, said: “If each shipping organisation can take steps towards democratising data within its own communities, networks, and supply chains, we all stand to benefit. By helping to raise the data maturity of your partners, they will be able to perform better and in turn better support you.
“By contrast, if there is a weak link in your supply chain, this could be where you lose the opportunity to optimise your operations and materially improve your environmental performance.”
The white paper puts the spotlight on the untapped potential of data collected for compliance purposes, including mandatory onboard logbooks and record books, stressing that such data can be harnessed to improve operational practices, boost fuel efficiency, and reduce waste and greenhouse gas emissions. It argues that shipowners and operators can go further with the data that they already collect for regulatory compliance by creating a new mindset that seeks the value of that data.
Currently, much of the information collected for compulsory reporting under the IMO's fuel data collection system (DCS) and the EU’s EU MRV (monitoring, reporting and verification) regulation is recorded in spreadsheets, emails, or paper. In addition, there is also an accumulation of data (often duplicated) for other sustainability requirements, such as onboard record books like oil, ballast water, garbage and others.
Colomban Monnier, Foundry Manager at Opsealog and one of the lead authors of the report, explains that this data is a goldmine of insights that can be used to optimize operations: “We have entered the age of environmental accountability on shipping’s sustainability journey. As sentiment around the green economy shifts from risk to opportunity, shipping can capitalize on how it engages with data and digitalization.
“At the heart of environmental accountability, for every vessel or fleet, is good data. If the industry can take steps towards democratizing access to this data, we can deliver a step change in mitigating shipping’s total environmental impact.”
The white paper also notes that the data processes put in place today will need to evolve throughout the energy transition to respond to the arrival of new low-carbon and zero-carbon fuels.
“The transition to new fuels will need to be accompanied by robust data to measure consumption and emissions, as well as the impact on other operational costs, including those relating to the logistics of getting these fuels onboard and potentially a full well-to-wake analysis. Digitizing onboard reporting ensures that the right foundations are put in place to meet the longer-term ambitions of the organization,” Mr Monnier explained.
Wind propulsion experts to explore the future landscape for wind technology
Next week, wind propulsion experts will gather in London at the headquarters of the International Maritime Organization (IMO) on February 16-7 for the Royal Institution of Naval Architects (RINA) 3rd annual conference on Wind Propulsion, which is organised in association with the International Windship Association (IWSA) and sponsored by Yara Marine Technologies.
“This gathering of wind propulsion experts will be a significant milestone in the journey to develop a wind-powered fleet fit for the 2030’s and beyond. It will also provide an opportunity for the industry to address any ‘misconceptions’ around wind powered ships,” states Gavin Allwright, IWSA Secretary General.
The current use of alternative fuels and renewable energy sources within the shipping industry is still relatively scarce. Growing environmental legislation and concerns are driving the need to develop and apply innovative alternative power and propulsion technology for ships.
Now, industry players are increasingly putting a modern spin on one of the oldest concepts in shipping: harnessing the power of wind for ship propulsion. Based on public announcements and shipyard orders made to-date, IWSA estimates that by the end of this year up to fifty large ships will be making use of wind as a renewable energy source with a combined tonnage of over three million DWT.
Dmitriy Ponkratov, RINA Technical Director says: “Since the inaugural conference in 2019, this bi- annual event has attracted a high level of interest in the maritime community. The 2023 conference agenda promises to bring those attending fully up to speed with recent technological, design and policy developments, and cast the minds of attendees into the future landscape for wind propulsion technology.”
This year, Arsenio Dominguez, Director, Marine Environment Division at the International Maritime Organization and Gavin Allwright, Secretary General of the International Windship Association will deliver keynote speeches at the conference.
Expert speakers also include representatives from Anemoi Marine Technologies, MOL Lloyd's Register, Norsepower, Wärtsilä, Research Institutes Sweden (RISE), Bureau Veritas Solutions M&O, MARIN, Chantiers de l'Atlantique, Knud E. Hansen, SINTEF Ocean, Cape Horn Engineering and bound4blue, among many others.
Swire Shipping introduces new fixed-day weekly service to the Pacific Islands
Swire Shipping, a leading operator of liner shipping services in the Asia Pacific, has introduced the Pacific Weekly Express (PWX) service, a new fixed-day weekly service that connects South-East Asia, Europe, India, and the Middle East with Papua New Guinea and the Pacific Islands.
The new service operates on a seven-day frequency to Papua New Guinea, Solomon Islands, New Caledonia, and Fiji, with connections in Fiji and Nouméa to the Pacific Islands of Tonga, Vanuatu, Samoa, American Samoa, and Tahiti.
PWX combines and expands two existing services – superseding the existing Southeast Asia (SEA) and East Southeast Asia (ESEA) services – offering greater frequency, predictability, and speed. The new service underlines Swire Shipping’s commitment to connecting the communities of the Pacific, doubling frequency to the ports of Lae, Motukea, Nouméa, Suva, and Honiara.
Ben Pike, Chief Operating Officer for Swire Shipping, said: “As a partner of choice to many, we believe it is our duty to support our customers’ supply chains with best-in-class liner services. With this in mind, we are pleased to introduce a significant upgrade to our network by including more fixed-day weekly and fixed-day fortnightly products in our key markets. The PWX service will bring significant value to our customers immediately and help to support communities and trade in the region.”
With a weekly frequency, customers in the Pacific will now be able to optimise their supply chains and reduce risk. The predictability and reliability of the weekly service will enable them to reduce inventories, lower holding costs, and improve stock management, whilst reducing supply chain risk and the possibility of stock outs. Customers will be able to standardise and repeat processes at both origin and destination locations, making it easier to plan their supply chains. They will also benefit from shorter waiting times and fewer vessel clashes in ports with better on time performance.
The introduction of the PWX service enables Swire Shipping to upgrade its Papua New Guinea (PNG) Service (serving Australia to Papua New Guinea and Solomon Islands) to a fixed-day fortnightly service. This complements existing fixed-day fortnightly products on the Australia-Pacific Islands (PIS) Service and North Asia Express (NAX) Service (serving North Asia to Papua New Guinea and Townsville, Australia).
Swire Shipping’s integrated logistics division will support the network of services in the Pacific by providing first-mile and last-mile logistics services, facilitating a seamless process.
Xeneta begins revealing container industry’s first emissions ‘heroes and villains’
Xeneta has taken the first step in a campaign to identify the carrier industry’s best and worst environmental performers across the world’s 13 leading shipping trades. With the help of the Carbon Emissions Index (CEI), a unique tool from Xeneta and Marine Benchmark, carriers have been assessed on the main Far East to South America East Coast container corridor.
In an age of ever-greater environmental scrutiny, the CEI aims to provide global shippers with the data they need to make informed “green shipping” decisions for their cargoes. Built on the foundation of real-time AIS data and individual vessel specifications, the index covers the main routes for liners, tracking movements and calculating emission footprints.
Xeneta will now be announcing the industry’s ‘heroes and villains’ for each trade in the weeks and months to come.
According to this latest analysis, the CO2 emitted per ton of cargo from the Far East to the East Coast of South America rose by 6.3% (quarter-on-quarter) in Q4 2022. This leaves the trade with a CEI of 96.6, its highest tally since Q3 2021 and the highest CEI of all the five major corridors out of the Far East.
The scores of individual carriers, reveals Peter Sand (pictured), Xeneta Chief Analyst, were “very mixed” with clear winners and others, he says, “that would benefit from doubling down on their efforts.”
He comments: “Environmental performance has never been more important, both from a ‘green’ and a commercial perspective, with shippers, regulators, financiers and other stakeholders paying close attention. With that in mind, Hamburg Süd will be very happy to record the lowest CEI on the trade, registering 76.2. This means a ton of cargo sailing on a ship operated by Hamburg Süd emitted over 20% less CO2 than an average ton on this trade. A great result.”
The low score, Sand explains, is due to Hamburg Süd’s sailing of “relatively slow steaming”, larger-than-average ships on this trade. Amongst other ‘star performers’ were ONE, scoring 82.2, and Hapag-Lloyd, registering 84.3. Looking at historical figures, Hapag-Lloyd actually emerges as the most carbon-efficient carrier on this trade in the past five years.
“Unfortunately for them, the CEI data shows that Evergreen was the worst performer amongst the top six carriers over the quarter,” Sand notes, adding that the Taiwanese group logged a score of 109.7.
“Somewhat counterintuitively, Evergreen actually had the highest filling factor on the trade – whereas Hamburg Süd’s was lower than average – however, its smaller, less carbon efficient vessels took a toll on the overall score. In addition, their ships sailed much faster, with speeds of 8.9% above the trade lane average.”
Interestingly, comparing the CEI with Xeneta’s wealth of crowd-sourced ocean freight rates data shows that green performance doesn’t necessarily come with a premium price tag.
Looking at Q4 2022, Hapag-Lloyd’s average rates were lower than average on the spot market, while on the long-term contract market, Hamburg Süd charged less than the market average when considering all valid long-term contracts. Evergreen, on the other hand, was more expensive on the long-term market, but offered savings on the spot market compared to the industry average.
CEI data, which is trusted, verified and independent from carriers, covers 13 of the world’s biggest trades. More lanes will be added by Xeneta and Marine Benchmark in the coming months.
Grimaldi acquires new terminal in Port of Amsterdam
Through its subsidiary Amsterdam Multipurpose Terminal (AMT), the Grimaldi Group has recently gained strategic assets and a 20-year concession within the port of Amsterdam.
The assets that AMT bought from the company EMA are located in the Amerikahaven area of the Dutch capital port and cover a surface of over 200,000 m2, including storage areas, adjacent warehouses and logistics areas, as well as two quays. The first, about 500 metres long, is dedicated to ships deployed on deep sea routes, and the second, about 300 metres long, for the berthing of vessels serving short sea links.
The Neapolitan group holds an 80% stake in AMT, a new company born ahead of the acquisition of the Amsterdam port terminal; the remaining 20% is owned by TMA Holding, a Dutch logistics operator with extensive experience in the management of terminals and warehouses.
"Our investment in the port terminal indicates the willingness of our Group to strengthen its position in the port of Amsterdam", said AMT President Guido Grimaldi (pictured). "We will aim to facilitate the development of the port, improving the services offered to the Dutch market and businesses while exploiting and enhancing its great potential as a multimodal logistic hub, thanks to the numerous road, rail, sea and river connections to and from the rest of Northern Europe".
With its deep-sea connections, the Grimaldi Group has been calling at Amsterdam for over 25 years; currently the port is part of the Central Express service, which regularly connects Northern Europe to West Africa for the transport of rolling stock, containers, general and project cargo.
Not only is Amsterdam an extremely important port for cocoa exports from West Africa to Europe: the Grimaldi Group aims to make the most of its strategic location, transforming it into the gateway for imports of new vehicles, as well as for their distribution in Northern Europe.
KVH supports seafarers with free VoIP calls to Turkey and Syria
KVH announces that it is now offering free VoIP calls to Turkey and Syria for seafarers, anticipating that this service will be available through the end of February 2023.
Seafarers can use their KVH TracNet™hybrid terminals and TracPhone® VSAT-only terminals to connect with family, friends, and loved ones affected by the devastating earthquakes in southeast Turkey, near the border of Syria.
“KVH is proud to stand with other maritime organizations supporting seafarers impacted by the recent earthquakes,” says David Tropp Hag, Vice President of Sales in KVH’s EMEA region.
“Our thoughts are with the people impacted by this tragedy and the seafarers who may be far from home and worried about loved ones. We recognize that seafarers are often challenged with communicating at sea and hope that this gesture will provide a means of connecting with friends and family during this troubling time.”
Quality Management System of AMP’s General Directorate of Seafarers certified by Bureau Veritas
The General Directorate of Seafarers (DGGM), of the Panama Maritime Authority (AMP), becomes the first General Directorate of this important institution to be certified by the Bureau Veritas Certification company, after satisfactorily passing the External Audit conducted to its Quality Management System (QMS) based on the ISO 9001:2015 Standard.
Through this audit, the quality of the service provided was certified, while also reaffirming the commitment acquired by the present Administration to always lead with transparency, efficiently, and seeking the continuous improvement of all the services provided.
Included in this certification are the Regional Documentation Offices of: Seoul, Korea; Dubai, United Arab Emirates; Miami, United States; London England; Manila, the Philippines, Piraeus, Greece, Shanghai-China and Mumbai-India, the last 2 offices being the ones that have this certification under the ISO 9001:2015 Standard for the first time.
In the period between July 2019 - November 2022, 114 updates were made and a total of 77 new documents have been raised, including forms, procedures, guides, manual instructions and matrices, which is of the utmost importance since these are related to the DGGM regulations, which contribute to maintaining high standards, optimizing internal processes and the continuous improvement of the Quality Management System in this general Directorate.
The Regional Manager of Bureau Veritas Panama, Jose Aurelio Chong said: "this achievement also represents a great challenge for everyone, because it is necessary to maintain the system efficiently and contribute to its continuous improvement. Let's remember that a successful organisation is one managed with quality, from its operation to its implemented standards, providing added value to its clients, in this case to seafarers, because the organisation achieves a differentiation by being better prepared and equipped to gain new opportunities.
“AMP as worldwide flag leader has consolidated itself in regards to its objectives with a view to customer satisfaction, in a global market that is very competitive”.
For his part, the Director of the DGGM, Capt. Juan Maltez, expressed his pride at the commitment of his entire team, which expended every effort to satisfactorily pass this audit, where compliance with the quality standards was verified.
The DGGM Quality Management System was certified for its regulation of maritime training activities carried out by authorised maritime training centres, recognition of suitable physicians to issue medical certificates for seafarers, and provision of certification services for seafarers who work on board Panamanian-flagged vessels, he said.
Bureau Veritas Certification is internationally recognized in the maritime certification field, with more than 121,000 certified companies worldwide. It has operations in 80 countries, reaching a total of 140 countries that receive its services, with more than 8,000 experienced auditors and more than 70 accreditations obtained by national and international organizations.
The deputy administrator of the AMP, Elvia Bustavino; the Director General of the DGMM, Capt. Juan Maltez; and BV’s Regional Manager for Panama, Jose Aurelius Chong, participated in the certification delivery ceremony.
TotalEnergies Marine Fuels, Hapag-Lloyd and Jurong Port Universal Terminal kick-start first biofuel bunker term delivery in Singapore
TotalEnergies Marine Fuels has successfully completed its first refuelling of a Hapag-Lloyd container vessel in Singapore with sustainable, UCOME (Used Cooking Oil Methyl Ester)-based, marine biofuel.
This inaugural bunker operation marks the start of a term supply agreement between the two companies, which commits TotalEnergies to provide VLSFO (Very Low Sulfur Fuel Oil) blended with 24% second-generation, waste-based and ISCC-certified UCOME to Hapag-Lloyd’s fleet. Based on a well-to-wake assessment, this B24 biofuel blend will reduce approximately 20% of Greenhouse Gas (GHG) emissions compared with conventional fuel oil.
As part of this milestone operation, Hapag-Lloyd’s 15,000 TEU container vessel, Afif, took on 2,000 MT of biofuel on 20th January 2023. The ship-to-ship biofuel transfer was made possible with the services rendered by Jurong Port Universal Terminal Pte Ltd (JPUT). JPUT also took on 100 percent UCOME bio-component into their storage tanks for the first time, which further underscores the significance of this operation.
Jan Christensen, Senior Director, Global Fuel Purchasing of Hapag-Lloyd, said: “We are very pleased with the cooperation with TotalEnergies for the supply of biofuel in Singapore. This is another early step for Hapag-Lloyd on our decarbonisation journey.
“In combination with other green fuels, biofuel will play an important role towards a carbon-free environment by 2045. Consistent supply of biofuel in Singapore will allow us to offer sustainable transportation solutions to our customers, thereby supporting them in their efforts to reduce their carbon footprint.”
Louise Tricoire, Vice President of TotalEnergies Marine Fuels, said: “We are excited to support Hapag-Lloyd’s decarbonisation strategy with the development of this new supply chain for marine biofuels. It underlines both companies’ long-term collaboration to explore and develop initiatives that promote the introduction of clean, low-carbon alternative fuels.
“Importantly, this biofuel bunker term contract also ushers a new chapter for TotalEnergies Marine Fuels, as we build on our operational expertise gained from multiple biofuel bunker trials we have done in 2022, to provide a scalable solution of this lower-carbon marine fuel.”
Loh Wei, Chief Executive Officer of Jurong Port Universal Terminal, said: “JPUT is excited to work with TotalEnergies Marine Fuels as our first customer for the bulk storage and delivery of biofuel bunkers in Singapore. As the largest independent petroleum storage terminal in Asia, JPUT has been working on several new initiatives on low-carbon fuels for the last two years.
“We are glad to be able to bring this UCOME initiative to the market in record time, thanks to the close collaboration with TotalEnergies. With this and other new initiatives focused on carbon reduction, clean fuels and sustainability, JPUT is well-positioned to be a leading clean and sustainable future fuels storage provider, reinforcing Singapore status as the world’s leading bunkering hub.”
HST Marine’s UK-built hybrid electric crew transfer vessel delivered
HST Marine, a subsidiary of Purus Wind, has welcomed the arrival of its second UK- built hybrid-electric crew transfer vessel (CTV), HST Frances, at a ceremony attended by Nusrat Ghani MP, UK Minister of State (Dept. for Business and Trade and the Cabinet Office) and senior British maritime industry leaders. The event highlighted Britain’s role in pioneering low-carbon vessels to support domestic and global offshore wind operations.
HST Frances is HST Marine’s second hybrid electric CTV. The 25-metre vessels can carry 12-24 industrial personnel, and its hybrid electric propulsion system cuts fuel consumption by 30% compared to similar CTVs powered by diesel engines. This follows the delivery of HST Ella in 2021, the industry’s first vessel of this type and recipient of the 2022 EMCAs Green Technology Award. Both vessels were designed by UK naval architect Chartwell Marine and built at UK shipbuilder Diverse Marine on the Isle of Wight. The HST Frances will also be British crewed for domestic projects.
“As wind power becomes an integral part of the net zero energy mix, the growth of sustainable offshore wind operations relies on strengthening the efficiency and environmental performance of their value chains. Meeting the rising demand for new, clean support vessels is part of the solution, and we are already taking a leading role on this,” says Tom Nevin, HST Marine CEO and head, Purus Wind.
Guests included Petra Wilkinson CBE, Director of Maritime for the Department of Transport, Robin Mortimer, the CEO of Port of London Authority, Rear Admiral Rex Cox, CEO of Home Shipbuilding Scheme, and the Rt Hon. Lord Mountevans, Chairman of the Baltic Exchange and Member of the House of Lords.
HST Marine was the first company to provide near-zero emissions operations for offshore wind projects in the UK, Belgium, France and Germany, demonstrating the ability of British companies to compete in the international offshore wind market. In the UK, its fleet has supported windfarms including Moray East and East Anglia 1 for companies including Vestas & SGRE. Purus Wind also provides commissioning/servicing (C/SOVs) to its offshore wind customers and, as part of its ongoing expansion, plans to order another 4-8 C/SOVs.
The company’s management team is based in Swansea and is focused on continuing to create jobs for UK seafarers and onshore personnel, in line with the UK’s Levelling Up policy. HST currently employs 18 people in the UK, recruited from UK trade schools and universities. Its UK personnel are ex-seafarers, Armed Forces veterans and university graduates in Swansea, Newcastle, East Anglia and London.
New portal launched to support implementation of Just in Time arrival concept
A new ‘one-stop-shop’ portal which aims to support the implementation of the Just in Time (JIT) arrivals concept has been launched.
The free-to-access portal was developed by the Global Industry Alliance to Support Low Carbon Shipping (Low Carbon GIA) and is hosted on the IMO-Norway GreenVoyage2050 project website.
It provides both port and shipping sectors with an overview of the JIT arrivals concept, including the main benefits, and general steps which can be taken towards its implementation in addition to key resources developed both by the Low Carbon GIA and other international organizations, such as the International Task Force on Port Call Optimization (ITPCO).
Capt. Andreas van der Wurff, Port Optimisation Manager at A.P. Moller-Maersk and Chair of the Low Carbon GIA Ship-Port Interface workstream, says: “Just in Time (JIT) arrival allows ships to optimize speed during their voyage to arrive in port when berth, fairway and nautical services are available. This makes JIT an important tool for reducing greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions from ships. After many years of work conducted by the Low Carbon GIA in this field, we are proud to launch this portal which centralizes all resources and tools alongside information around the benefits and how to implement the concept created to support anyone in the industry in adopting JIT.”
The Low Carbon GIA has been actively exploring the concept of JIT arrival through various research projects and several industry stakeholder roundtables under the Ship-Port Interface Workstream for many years. To-date, several resources have been developed by the Low Carbon GIA that focus on the JIT concept, including the “Just in Time Arrival Guide”, the “Just In Time Arrival - Emissions reduction potential in global container shipping” research study, and a short Just in Time animation video.
The portal will be regularly updated with new developments and available information and resources. In future, interviews with stakeholders from ports that have successfully implemented JIT will also be published on the portal where users can listen to their experiences and knowledge around the practical implementation of the concept.
The Low Carbon GIA is a public-private partnership that operates under the framework of the IMO-Norway GreenVoyage2050 Project. The aim of the Low Carbon GIA is to develop innovative solutions to address common barriers to decarbonizing the shipping sector.
IMO pays tribute to earthquake victims in Türkiye and Syria
Member States and observers of the International Maritime Organization (IMO) paid their tribute to the victims of the earthquakes that struck Türkiye and Syria on 6 February 2023, causing widespread destruction across densely populated cities and claiming more than 22,000 lives so far, with the numbers sadly increasing by the hour.
A one-minute silence was observed at the opening of the final day (10 February) of the ninth session of the Sub-Committee on Human Element, Training and Watchkeeping (HTW Sub-Committee), which was held at IMO headquarters in London.
The Chair of the HTW Sub-Committee, Mr Haakon Storhaug (Norway), led the observance of the silence and called for a moment of reflection and remembrance for those affected by the natural disaster. He conveyed the thoughts and prayers of all delegations attending the meeting to the people affected by this terrible tragedy.
Türkiye is home to the largest number of refugees in the world with up to 3.6 million Syrians living there, according to the United Nations, having fled war in their own country. And in Syria, the UN estimates that 5.3 million people may have been left homeless by the earthquakes.
In a statement to the HTW Sub-Committee, the delegation of Türkiye expressed their gratitude for the generous and overwhelming support flowing in from the international community and provided an update on the dire situation in the affected areas.
The delegation stated that the efforts of the international community are highly appreciated and underlined that this disaster was "a reminder to us all of the fragility of life and the importance of coming together in times of need".
Donations can be made to the UN Crisis Relief Türkiye-Syria earthquake appeal via the IMO website.
Port of Long Beach sees reduced cargo
Softened consumer spending, increased prices driven by inflation and a shift in trade routes contributed to a dip in shipments moving through the Port of Long Beach, California in January.
Dockworkers and terminal operators moved 573,772 TEUs last month, down 28.4% from January 2022, which was the Port’s busiest January on record. Imports decreased 32.3% to 263,394 TEUs and exports declined 14.2% to 105,623 TEUs. Empty containers moving through the Port were down 29% to 204,755 TEUs.
“We are taking aggressive steps to meet a new set of challenges for the new year,” said Port of Long Beach Executive Director Mario Cordero. “I remain optimistic that we will recapture market share and develop projects that will enhance our long-term growth, sustainable operations and the reliable movement of goods through the Port of Long Beach.”
“We’re confident we will grow cargo volume by working with our industry stakeholders,” said Long Beach Harbor Commission President Sharon L. Weissman. “We are focused on investing in infrastructure projects that will improve air quality and make us more competitive.”
Economists say inflation is slowing for purchased goods and may offset rising prices for services, largely depending on how the Federal Reserve adjusts interest rates this year.
The Port of Long Beach marked its second-busiest year on record in 2022 by moving 9.13 million twenty-foot TEUs, allowing for a return to normal operations while once again serving as the nation’s leading export seaport.
The Annual Brun Bear Foundation Golf Day 2023
Elaborate Communications is excited to be an official supporter of The Annual Brun Bear Foundation Golf Day 2023, taking place on Wednesday, June 21 at Royal Blackheath Golf Club, the oldest golf club in the UK.
This event is a fantastic opportunity for the maritime and offshore communities to come together while enjoying a day on the course with friends and colleagues.
A key beneficiary of the event is The OSCAR Campaign (The Ocean and Shipping Community Advancing Children's Health and Research), which is an innovative fundraising partnership uniting the international shipping community to raise funds at Great Ormond Street Hospital (GOSH) and the UCL Great Ormond Street Institute of Child Health (ICH).
In addition to a round of golf, Nearest-the-Pin and Longest Drive challenges, the event will feature:
• An Exclusive VIP Museum Tour of This Storied Golf Course...
• Rum Tasting....
• Silent & Live Auctions...
• A Three Course Dinner...
• Award Presentations...
We hope you'll join this what will be a highly enjoyable and memorable event with outstanding golf, networking and social activities that will make a real difference across a mix of community, medical and animal welfare projects.
Golfers: To book your tickets please click here
Non-Golfers: To book your tickets please click here
For further information please contact event organiser Edwin Lampert. Edwin is Riviera Maritime Media's Executive Editor and Head of Business Relations and is organising the event through the registered charity he set up in memory of his father. You can read more about The Brun Bear Foundation here
See you on the course and in the club house!
Maersk to recruit South African cadets for its global fleet
Following an extensive review process, South Africa has been identified as a high potential crew sourcing destination for the A.P. Moller - Maersk (Maersk) fleet, which comprises 280 fully owned and operated container vessels, employing 12,500 seafarers.
South African Cadets from the National Seafarer Development Program will be considered for placement with Maersk, and it is expected that the first cadets will be joining Maersk vessels from Q2 2023.
“The importance of having geographically diverse pools of seafarers was highlighted during the Pandemic,” says Niels Bruus, Head of Marine HR, A.P. Moller – Maersk. “South Africa is a natural choice due to its maritime legacy and the number of high-quality South African seafarers currently employed in Maersk’s global container vessel fleet many of whom hold senior positions in our crews.”
South Africa is considered a high potential crew sourcing area for several reasons: the country’s proven track record in providing quality ships Officers, its favourable geographical location, the existing maritime infrastructure, vast population, and English language capabilities. South Africa’s socio-demographic profile and living cost index also lends itself to offshore employment.
The South African Maritime Training Academy (SAMTRA) was established in 2003 in Simons Town by the A.P. Moller- Maersk Foundation. SAMTRA offers a range of simulation-based skills development courses and will manage the Maersk South Africa Cadet Program.
SAMTRA is a leading provider of talent for the South African National Seafarer Development Program (NSDP), a programme sponsored by the South African Government via the National Skills Fund and the South African International Maritime Institute (SAIMI).
The STS Lawhill Maritime Centre (www.lawhill.org), offers three specialist maritime subjects - Nautical Science, Maritime Economics and Marine Science - as well as boarding facilities for the grade 10-12 learners. Maersk has been an anchor sponsor at Lawhill over the last 28 years and through the strong foundation provided, this institution is a natural feeder to the SAMTRA Cadet Programs.
Edda Wind launches Chartwell Marine daughter craft CTV for Dogger Bank Wind Farm
Norwegian service operation vessel provider and operator Edda Wind has launched a daughter craft Crew Transfer Vessel (CTV) designed by Chartwell Marine, UK pioneer of next-generation vessel design for the offshore wind sector.
The innovative new vessel has been built by Alicat Workboats Ltd and named Boreas Worker. It was built on behalf of Astilleros Gondan SA before entering service for operator Edda Wind, as part of the firm’s contract during commissioning and construction of the first phase of major UK offshore wind farm Dogger Bank Wind Farm.
The 12-metre CTV, which will work in conjunction with Edda Wind’s fleet of hydrogen-ready commissioning service operation vessels (CSOVs) on site, is the first of a new catamaran Daughter Craft design to be commissioned.
The Chartwell daughter craft responds to the need in the offshore wind support market for low-emissions, cost-effective vessels, with the catamaran’s optimised hull form offering efficient fuel use as well as stability and manoeuvrability in choppy waters.
Boreas Worker has a capacity of 12 personnel and is designed to be conveniently deployed from CSOVs and ‘floatels’ during extended offshore stays, offering wind farm technicians comfortable and efficient access to turbines, vessels, and other critical project infrastructure.
Dogger Bank, a joint venture between energy partners SSE Renewables, Equinor, and Vårgrønn, is set to be the largest offshore wind farm — not just in UK waters, but globally. The three phases of the project, known as A, B, and C, will provide an overall total capacity of 3.6GW, capable of powering up to 6 million homes.
Boreas Worker will form a versatile addition to Edda Wind’s fleet as it supports Phase A of construction this spring. The design forms part of Chartwell’s expanded offshore wind support vessel range, which has seen orders from across Europe, Asia, and the USA since its launch in June 2022.
Andy Page, Director of Chartwell Marine, said: “The Daughter Craft fulfils a key role in a modern support vessel fleet - giving vessel operators a way to safely transfer engineers from rest-space to work-space while out at sea for longer periods of time, ultimately streamlining the processes of turbine commissioning and maintenance.”
“We’re excited to be able to contribute our design expertise to an offshore energy project of this scale, and especially one off our own shores. We’d like to thank our partners at Edda Wind for choosing us to help get Dogger Bank built.”
Kenneth Walland, CEO of Edda Wind, said: “Daughter craft workboats give more flexibility to our offshore wind operations in addition to the CSOV — and we need to ensure that we set the same standards of technical availability, efficiency, and performance across every vessel in our fleet. Chartwell’s proven track record bringing innovative small vessel designs into operation made them a clear choice of partner for this project. We are therefore pleased to launch the Boreas Worker, joining the Edda Boreas in supporting the construction of Dogger Bank.”
Dogger Bank Wind Farm Commercial Director, Simon Bailey, said: “The UK-designed & built Boreas Worker vessel will be a welcome addition to our construction and commissioning fleet, providing safe and efficient transfers for our team as we install our first turbines this year.”
World’s first full scale CCS project moves ahead with LCO2 carrier signing ceremony
The signing ceremony for bare boat charter and time charter contracts for two 7,500m3 liquefied CO2 ships between Kawasaki Kisen Kaisha, Ltd. (“K” LINE) and Northern Lights JV DA was held in Stavanger, Norway on 10th February 2023.
Both companies shared the recognition that CCS is an essential infrastructure in reaching the world’s climate goals and agreed to develop cross-border CO2 transport and storage network and provide safety, reliable and flexible liquefied CO2 shipping solution with both companies’ expertise.
The ships will be delivered in 2024 and will contribute to the world’s first full-scale carbon capture and storage (CCS) value chain.
The London-based subsidiary “K” LINE LNG Shipping (UK) Ltd. will undertake the management of two ships transporting liquefied CO2 from industrial emitters, including the Norcem Brevik and Hafslund Oslo Celsio carbon capture facilities, to the Northern Lights CO2 receiving terminal in Øygarden, Norway.
““K” LINE has a long history of creating innovative shipping solutions. Together with their ability to overcome changing business conditions and working to ensure safe and reliable operations, this will be key for making this ground-breaking and pathfinding collaboration a success,” said Børre Jacobsen, Managing Director of Northern Lights.
“Northern Lights plays the key role of ‘Longship project” for the decarbonization of European industry,” said Satoshi Kanamori, Executive Officer of “K” LINE. ““K” Line Group is determined to work together to conduct safe and highly reliable shipping operations.”
Euronav trials find Toqua models can double weather routing fuel savings
Toqua and Euronav have been collaborating since 2020 on how sensor data could be leveraged to improve ship performance models (aka speed-fuel models). During two pilot projects over two years, both parties worked closely together, sharing insights and exploring the limits of what's possible with sensor data.
After the two successful trial projects, Euronav decided to roll out Toqua's ‘Ship Kernels’ next-generation ship performance models to the whole fleet. A recurring contract was signed in the summer of 2022 indicating the start of a fleetwide roll-out that will be completed in 2023.
As an industry-leading company, Euronav says it is looking for operational optimisations that reduce fuel consumption and emissions. These optimisations are a win-win, as they reduce emissions while also saving money, making them the first steps on everyone’s decarbonisation roadmap. Examples include optimal timing of hull cleanings, route planning, and speed optimisation.
All of the operational optimisations above depend on ship performance models. Especially for weather routing, where the route & speed between two destinations is optimized, ship performance models play a crucial role. The better a performance model can estimate the impact of wave height, wave angle, wind speed, wind angle, currents, etc. on the speed-fuel relationship for a specific ship, the better the routing algorithm on top of it can optimize to minimize fuel consumption over a voyage. Increasing the fuel savings of an existing routing solution by providing it with an improved ship performance model was the core idea behind the study performed by Euronav.
Validating the savings due to voyage optimisation is not an easy feat, says Euronav; validating how much of those savings can be attributed to an improved ship performance model at the heart of that optimisation is even harder.
To estimate the value of using more accurate performance models, Euronav compared the optimization results using simple ship performance models with the optimisation results using Toqua's Ship Kernels. This methodology was applied to a VLCC over 16 voyages, spanning four trades, in both directions, for different seasons. This reflects a wide variety of realistic trading conditions for Euronav, ensuring the resulting savings potential is representative.
Over these 16 voyages, it was found Toqua's Ship Kernels could more than double the savings potential, in comparison to using traditional ship performance models.. As Euronav's Senior Fleet Performance Analyst, Seb van den Berg, puts it: "Our study concluded Toqua’s Ship Kernels were able to double the fuel savings potential of weather routing, underlining the importance of having good ship performance models."
The results above are specifically for Euronav, so some caution is required before generalizing. To put it in the words of Euronav: “In this study, we implemented a controlled and conservative approach to only assess and present the fuel-saving potential. Actual savings may vary depending on the route, weather conditions, vessel performance, C/P limits, any other optimisation settings, and human behaviour.”
“Data-driven ship performance models utilizing high-frequency sensor data are an essential step toward the decarbonization of the shipping industry,” says Patrick Declerck, Operations Manager at Euronav.
YSA Design adds momentum to zero emission Northern Xplorer
YSA Design has become a key member of the team planning to build the world’s first zero-emission cruise ship, following a formal invitation to join the consortium behind the Northern Xplorer venture. The Oslo-based design firm will take oversight of key aspects of project development, helping to convert the visionary concept into reality.
NX has already signed a Letter of Intent with Portugal’s West Sea shipyard to build a first 140-metre-length, 250-guest capacity ship with 125 luxury cabins for the 2026 cruise season, powered by hydrogen fuel cells and batteries. With original interior concepts by Axel Brox, its design has been developed for stability and performance by Multi Maritime, which also provided the eye-catching side view.
“As coordinating architect, YSA Design is developing the GA, and offering layouts and renderings in close cooperation with designer Axel Brox,” said Trond Sigurdsen, Senior Architect, YSA Design. “With his out- of-the-box thinking on designing for hospitality, he is a breath of fresh air. Drawing on nearly 40 years of cruise experience, we are also developing the quality assurance for future construction plans.”
Underpinning all of YSA Design’s work will be the ship’s ‘Destination Discovery’ ethos, added Sigurdsen. “The Northern Xplorer project is exciting on many levels. The thinking behind its Net Zero operations extends to the sustainable relationships this ship will develop with its destination communities.”
Northern Xplorer’s profile ties the vessel closely to destinations, with its scale, itineraries and shipboard facilities reflecting the small harbours and communities which it visits. “The ship will be catering to the thinking traveller, who is mindful that sustainability is increasingly central to the cruise experience,” said Sigurdsen.
Designers have been tasked with specifying reusable materials from Scandinavia, where possible, which should also be recyclable. Life cycle planning for key materials is also considered an important element in the building process.
Other standout features will include YSA Design’s solution for the observation deck and lounge (pictured), where attention has been given to maximise dramatic panoramic views, even when the ship is close to steep mountains in narrow fjords.
RINA and ABB sign MoU to cooperate in shipping decarbonisation
International classification society RINA has announced the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with ABB which focuses on establishing a collaborative relationship with the aim of developing new concepts to reduce emissions in shipping for various vessel types.
The collaboration will include the development of commercially viable solutions, including fuel cell systems with carbon capture, to move the shipping industry forward with decarbonization. It further focuses on promoting the use of hydrogen, and the introduction of modern approaches to ship propulsion.
Giosuè Vezzuto, Executive Vice President Marine at RINA, says: “We are delighted about the MoU with ABB. It demonstrates the high level of commitment between our companies. There are many challenges to overcome, and collaboration is crucial if we are to succeed in addressing them to protect the environment.”
“We are happy to strengthen our collaboration with RINA to drive decarbonization in shipping. ABB is known for its long-standing commitment and expertise in developing electric, automated and digital technologies to make the maritime industry more sustainable. Bringing new, commercially viable solutions to the market is a long process that requires close collaboration between class societies and technology providers. I look forward to seeing the benefits these new solutions deliver to the industry and the environment,” says Rune Braastad, Business Line Manager, Marine Systems, ABB Marine & Ports.
As the classification society and third-party certification provider, RINA’s role within the agreement will be to work on providing Approval in Principle of design concepts that match the technologies available from ABB and the applicable rules and regulations, along with project and type approvals. Further areas include Hazard Identification and Operability (HAZID/HAZOP) analyses, review of feasibility studies, cyber security certification, and support with ERP and digital solutions.
As the technology provider, ABB will focus on the development of suitable solutions based on latest technologies, providing information on possible ways to increase fuel efficiency in existing systems, and presenting and discussing solutions with owners, designers, and shipyards.
CMA CGM Foundation humanitarian flight for Türkiye
A CMA CGM Air Cargo A330-200F aircraft, made available free of charge, flew on Sunday from Paris-CDG to Gaziantep airport to transport the civil security field hospital deployed by the French Civil Security.
The emergency aid operation was carried out within the framework of the partnership between the CMA CGM Foundation and the Crisis and Support Centre of France’s Ministry of Europe and Foreign Affairs.
In addition, the CMA CGM Foundation said it preparing its contribution to a humanitarian operation for the populations affected by the earthquake in Syria, in conjunction with non-governmental organizations and the United Nations.
CMA CGM Air Cargo is the air freight division of the shipping group founded in February 2021.
Launch of revised International Safety Guide for Inland Navigation Tank-barges and Terminals (ISGINTT)
Oil Companies International Marine Forum (OCIMF) and the inland navigation sector with the support of the Central Commission for the Navigation of the Rhine (CCNR) have collaborated with other European organisations to produce the second edition of the International Safety Guide for Inland Navigation Tank-barges and Terminals (ISGINTT).
The purpose of ISGINTT is to improve the safe transport of dangerous goods at the interface between inland tank barges and other vessels or shore facilities (terminals). The safety guide is compatible with other international maritime guidance for seagoing vessels (e.g. International Safety Guide for Oil Tankers and Terminals (ISGOTT)). It is not intended to replace or to amend current legal requirements, but to provide additional recommendations.
The guide makes recommendations for inland tankers and terminal personnel on the safe carriage and handling of such products typically carried in petroleum, chemicals or liquefied gas inland tankers, as well as the terminals handling those inland tankers.
This edition encompasses changes in tanker design and operating practices and reflects the latest technology and legislation.
Its implementation is recommended by OCIMF and the following participating industry organisations: European Barge Union (EBU), European Chemical Industry Council (CEFIC), European Federation of Inland Ports (EFIP), European Sea Ports Organisation (ESPO), European Skippers Organisation (ESO), Federation of European Tank Storage (FETSA), FuelsEurope, Inland Waterways Transport Platform (IWT Platform), International Chamber of Shipping (ICS), and Society of International Gas Tanker and Terminal Operators (SIGTTO), along with the necessary political support of CCNR.
A risk-based control philosophy continues to be central to the safety practices included in the guide.
Karen Davis, Managing Director, Oil Companies International Marine Forum (OCIMF), says: “By enhancing risk awareness, ISGINTT seeks to foster an environment where the uncertainties associated with some shipboard operations are reduced not solely by prescription, but also by encouraging barges and terminal crew, as well as their employers, to identify the risks in everything they are doing and to then implement fit-for-purpose risk reduction measures.
“This puts the focus on people and is, therefore, entirely consistent with a strategy related to the human element which has had increased focus in recent years.”
Central to the guide is a number of safety checklists covering ship/shore as well as inland ship/maritime ship (and vice versa) transhipment of cargo and slops. These checklists have been developed to reflect the individual and joint responsibilities of the tank barge and the terminal and can be easily adopted by all ports and terminals.
Lucia Luijten, Secretary General, Central Commission for the Navigation of the Rhine (CCNR), says: “Safety is critical to the tank barging industry, and it is hoped that this revised guide will become the standard guideline on the safe operation of inland tank-barges and the terminals they serve.
“We are confident that ISGINTT will not only contribute to the further improvement of the industry’s excellent safety record but will also bring us closer to the goal of zero accidents to which we all aspire. We, therefore, recommend it to all interested parties.“
This second edition has been kept to the original structure for ease of use. It is divided into five sections: General Information, Tanker Information, Terminal Information, Management of the Tanker and Terminal Interface, and Additional Information for the Handling of Liquefied Gases.
The guide compiles the contributions from various organisations, including CCNR, CEFIC, EBU, EFIP, ESO, FETSA, FuelsEurope, IWT Platform and OCIMF. It is available for download on the OCIMF and ISGINTT websites.
Seaber collaborates with Neste to optimise maritime logistics
Seaber.io, a Finnish maritime technology company, has announced a cooperation with Neste, a leading producer of renewable and sustainable fuels. Neste is using Seaber’s software for planning maritime logistics activities such as shipping schedules and port calls. Seaber’s SaaS application is designed for both shipowners and cargo owners, allowing them to optimise efficiencies and deliver transparency throughout the organisation.
Seaber’s intelligent technology provides data-led decision support that optimises fleet TCE (Time Charter Equivalent) and reduces costs per ton mile bringing down shipping’s environmental impact. In addition to single cargo voyages, it supports multi-parcel and multi-port voyages, where unnecessary ballast voyages and low utilisation rates are common.
"Neste's goal is to become a global leader in renewable and circular solutions,” says Paavo Kojonen (pictured, left), Shipping Asset and Sustainability Manager at Neste. “In order to achieve this, we need to find new ways to reduce the amount of carbon released into the atmosphere. New solutions and partnerships like Seaber are needed to help us optimize maritime logistics, which is one step towards reducing emissions."
The cooperation between Seaber and Neste is exciting news. Sebastian Sjöberg (pictured, right), CEO and Co-founder of Seaber, says : "We are thrilled to see that Neste has taken this important step to optimise their shipping scheduling through further digitalisation. This collaboration enables Neste to optimise their processes, increase vessel utilisation and reduce emissions and cost per ton mile. Our partnership allows Seaber to further develop our solution for the benefit of the industry."
Brookes Bell acquires industry-leading tribology consultancy
Multi-disciplinary technical and scientific consultancy Brookes Bell has announced the acquisition of Neale Consulting Engineers - a leading provider of tribology consultancy.
Tribology - which is the science of interacting surfaces in motion and how friction, wear, and lubrication affect these surfaces - first emerged in the 1960s. In the engineering context, tribology requires a deep understanding of how moving parts of machines function (or malfunction). Typical tribological components are bearings, gears, seals and other machine parts, which are often a source of unreliability and failures.
Neale Consulting Engineers has over five decades of experience providing consultancy services relating to tribological issues, machinery failure, product design improvements and more.
Founded in the 1960s, Neale Consulting Engineers has carried out hundreds of assignments across the globe supporting varied industries such as maritime, power generation, renewable energy, manufacturing, rail, and aviation. Over this time, Neale Consulting Engineers developed a reputation as being the ‘go-to’ consultancy for tribological issues in the industry, with the team collectively authoring 16 books on machinery tribology and related issues.
The acquisition will see Neale Consulting Engineers integrated into Brookes Bell’s global business, adding expertise to the firm’s team of Master Mariners, Engineers, Scientists, Naval Architects, and others.
Commenting on the acquisition, Ray Luukas, Brookes Bell’s Chief Technical Officer, said: “Neale Consulting Engineers is an ideal fit for Brookes Bell. As the technical and scientific consultancy of choice to the global maritime industry, we regularly encounter engine and other machinery failures, and other design issues which require a thorough understanding and experience of tribology to successfully resolve.
“We have worked closely with Neale Consulting Engineers for many years and now, having them on board, significantly enhances the level of expertise and knowledge within the Brookes Bell business and will allow our related disciplines such as engineering, materials, naval architecture and nautical matters to tap into a valuable source of insight - which will ultimately benefit our clients.
“The integration of Neale Consulting Engineers into Brookes Bell supports our aim of diversifying into new industries alongside marine.”
Telemar secures maintenance and service contract from MINSHIP Shipmanagement
Marlink subsidiary Telemar has signed a maintenance and service agreement for eight bulk carriers operated by MINSHIP Shipmanagement.
The contract will see Telemar provide global service co-ordination for Bavaria-based MINSHIP. It includes the provision of the latest Telemar World Service (TWS), a web-based tool for managing scheduled and predictive service appointments for the entire MINSHIP fleet, increasing visibility on service intervals and optimising vessel availability.
MINSHIP provides long-term management and logistics solutions for both its vessel owners and cargo trading clients. In 2021, the company integrated Hamburg-based technical manager Auerbach Marine, extending its operational expertise to a fleet of MPP vessels. Based in southern Germany, MINSHIP has been a Telemar on-call customer for years. Following the merger with Auerbach, which was already a contract customer, MINSHIP has become a full Telemar partner, reflecting management’s satisfaction with the company’s performance.
Using a planned maintenance strategy will give MINSHIP the ability to create better predictability in its vessel operations. The equipment included in the contract supports both navigational safety and efficient shipping and higher uptime means performance data can be shared on a close to real-time basis if required.
The contract includes a shore-based maintenance contract including annual radio survey, exchange and check of EPIRB and SART, VDR APT and CoC, annual gyro compass and radar overhaul and exchange of X- and S-band radar magnetrons.
“MINSHIP prides itself on being a transparent and co-operative service provider; our commitment to responding individually to customer wishes requires a fleet designed for highly reliable operations,” says Markus Hiltl, Managing Director, MINSHIP. “The importance of properly planned and executed maintenance to our vessel operations is paramount and makes Telemar the natural choice for a closer relationship.”
“Telemar is delighted to start the new year by strengthening our co-operation with MINSHIP, a customer with whom we’ve enjoyed a strong working partnership for many years,” said Mike Bauwens, Chief Executive Officer, Telemar Group. “Winning the trust of clients with consistent performance is key to demonstrating that we support their business strategies and can help them run safer and more efficient ships.”
Joint NAPA-ClassNK research with Marubeni measures how voyage optimisation can boost CII rating
Maritime software and data analysis expert NAPA and classification society Nippon Kaiji Kyokai (ClassNK) have announced the results of a joint study conducted with Marubeni Corporation, which has measured the impact of voyage optimisation on the greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions and Carbon Intensity Indicator (CII) ratings of a real-life fleet.
The research found that a vessel’s fuel consumption and CO2 emissions can be reduced by up to 7.3% by using NAPA Voyage Optimization. Moreover, the analysis shows that voyage optimisation can improve a vessel’s CII by an average of 5-6%, enabling ships to maintain their ratings for an additional two to three years.
The joint research was carried out using NAPA’s ship performance model and voyage simulation tools. It used data on all voyages, weather and ocean conditions in 2021 for a group of bulk carriers owned and operated by Marubeni. The potential reductions in fuel consumption and CO2emissions were measured by “retro-optimizing” each voyage to incorporate weather routing, using the data on weather and sea conditions that was available at the time and maintaining the same departure and arrival times.
ClassNK provided advice on the simulations, verified the calculated values and confirmed the results, while Marubeni provided the vessels for the demonstration tests, as well as its experience and expertise on operational aspects.
The joint study highlights the importance of optimising voyages to improve a vessel’s rating under the IMO’s CII regulation, which rates the carbon intensity of each vessel on a scale from A to E. It found that using NAPA Voyage Optimization can boost a vessel’s CII rating by 5-6%, which in many cases enables it to move up one rank (from B to A, for example). It also enables vessels to remain in the same category for two to three years longer as the requirements for each CII category gradually become stricter, forcing ships to reduce their emissions over time. Crucially, these improvements do not require any additional installation or equipment on board.
Naoki Mizutani, Managing Director at NAPA Japan, said: “This study with Marubeni is important as it demonstrates in tangible terms the impact that voyage optimisation can have on the emissions and CII ratings of a real-life fleet at sea today. This is critical for businesses throughout the supply chains, informing strategic and financial decisions as legislation enters into force.
“Our analysis shows that substantial emissions reductions can be achieved with tools that are available today. There is no reason to wait given the scale of the climate crisis. The study confirms that voyage optimisation will be a powerful tool for the industry, not only to ensure compliance with CII requirements, but also to support shipping’s decarbonisation journey.”
Takayuki Hase, General Manager of Ship Department at Marubeni, said: “We are proud to partner with NAPA and ClassNK on this unique study, which provides greater clarity for the entire maritime industry on how we can collectively reduce our carbon footprint through digital solutions that make our operations smarter and more efficient.
“As we navigate a new regulatory environment, data-driven insights are key to accurately assess our starting point, and fully understand the practical impacts. Based on cooperation and collaboration with industrial leading companies, we aim to contribute greener, more sustainable shipping though all practical methods.”
Yoshimichi Sasaki, General Manager of Digital Transformation Center at ClassNK, said: “CII implementation poses challenges to shipping companies not just to ensure compliance but to plan and manage GHG emissions from their fleet, which directly impacts their competitiveness. Visualising ships’ emissions should be a key initial step to envisage the way for optimised GHG management systems.
“The study based on the actual voyage data has successfully demonstrated the value of the simulation in generating insights. ClassNK will use its outcome to enhance our certification service range which is responding to decarbonisation trends and the advancement of digital technology.”
IACS adopts new Unified Requirement on Buckling Strength Assessment of Ship Structural Elements (UR S35)
The International Association of Classification Societies (IACS) has developed a standalone Unified Requirement (UR) for buckling strength assessment on different ship types using the net thickness approach. This has resulted in the publication of UR S35 “Buckling Strength Assessment of Ship Structural Elements” which will enter into force on 1 July 2024.
The new harmonised methodology for buckling has been developed applying the toolbox in the Common Structural Rules (CSR) for Bulk Carriers & Oil Tankers which are widely accepted as being technically sound and which have been implemented, maintained and improved over the years with industry’s expertise and experience feeding into the continuous improvement of CSR.
In harmonising the buckling methodology, improvements have been made on the global elastic buckling mode for stiffened panels subject to combined loads (biaxial loads, in-plane shear force and lateral pressure), the torsional buckling mode for stiffeners, buckling strength of U-type stiffeners, plates with opening and also plate panels fitted with sniped stiffeners.
Thorough verification and consequence assessments have been carried out by extensive linear and nonlinear FE analyses, says IACS, with the harmonised requirements showing increased accuracy and effectiveness. The application of the buckling requirements such as scope, loading and permissible utilisation factor will be described in individual UR S series, e.g. in UR S21 on Evaluation of Scantlings of Hatch Covers and Hatch Coamings.
The new UR S35 will serve as an independent buckling toolbox regardless of ship types by collating, as far as possible general requirements on buckling together in one UR. A further benefit arising from the development of UR S35, is to facilitate the merger of the UR S21 and UR S21A (which currently address different ship types) into a single UR S21 Rev.6 also with an entry-into-force date 01 July 2024 to align with that of UR S35.
Commenting on this new UR S35, IACS Secretary General Robert Ashdown (pictured) said: “the adoption of a unified approach to buckling is a significant step in making the rule application check of different ship types easier for Industry but also in enhancing the maintenance of future buckling rule improvements by IACS. Furthermore, it also facilitates the further harmonisation of other relevant IACS that will also be of benefit to the industry.”
Sailors’ Society publishes landmark report on cadet wellness
A pioneering in-depth report on cadets has been launched by international maritime charity Sailors’ Society. Publication of the report follows on the charity’s series of global wellness and mental health conferences designed exclusively for cadets, which were held in 2021-22.
Sailors’ Society says ‘Passport to the Future: Investing in Cadets Today’ is the first report of its kind. Using exclusive and wide-reaching data collected during the organisation’s three global cadet conferences last year, which attracted nearly 5,000 cadet registrations, this report provides insight into the minds of Generation Z cadets.
It reveals intriguing regional differences between cadets in different parts of the world and highlights the fears and motivations of the next generation of seafarers and future leaders.
Sailors’ Society CEO Sara Baade (pictured) said: “This report is a first step in hearing the voices of cadets, rather than listening to those who talk about cadets.
“Developing wellbeing solutions for the industry and specifically for cadets must be based on reliable and relevant data and this report will serve as a beacon. It provides insight that can shape future work in seafarer wellness and mental health throughout the maritime industry.”
The report builds on Sailors’ Society’s pioneering wellness training and support programme, described as the most comprehensive and long running in the maritime industry. The charity has had a focus on cadets over the past few years as part of its circle of care that encompasses the whole of a seafarer's career.
The report can be downloaded from the charity’s website Sailors Society (sailors-society.org)
KVH’s new Crew Internet service offers vital connectivity to mariners and enables vessel traffic allocation
KVH announces the launch of KVH Crew Internet, a solution that supports crew welfare and allows fleet administrators to effectively manage vessel data. The service is compatible with KVH TracNet™ hybrid terminals and is included with standard airtime plans.
“Connectivity is crucial to crew, yet can often be a challenge for fleet administrators,” says Mark Woodhead (pictured), KVH’s Executive Vice President of Sales and Marketing. “With KVH Crew Internet, mariners can access personal email, enjoy the web, manage personal affairs, and interact with social connections while out at sea.
“Fleet administrators can set data allocations, limit online access hours, and manage data usage on the vessel. KVH Crew Internet provides a win-win solution for today’s commercial shipping companies, and we are excited to offer it to the global maritime community.”
Commercial crew will enjoy access to applications such as WhatsApp, social media, websites, and email. The KVH Crew Internet service will follow them wherever they are within the fleet; their login and allocations stay with them as they move from ship to ship, ensuring no disruption in their use of the service. Fleet administrators can set data allocations and limits on a daily, weekly or monthly basis.
Allocations can also be set by connection type, such as the three channels built into the TracNet™ terminals' intelligent hybrid design – satellite, cellular, or Wi-Fi. And, online hours can be limited for safety and productivity reasons.
The interface for KVH Crew Internet is convenient and user-friendly for both crew and fleet administrators. Crew can log into a convenient portal on their cell phones, tablets, or computers to use data, track use, and budget their time spent online. Fleet administrators can use the secure KVH Manager portal to set allocations and controls, and to view a vessel or fleet’s data usage. The portal is accessible on a variety of devices and is mobile responsive.
KVH Crew Internet is the third value-added service for the commercial maritime market launched by KVH in 2023. In January, KVH introduced KVH Managed Firewall, providing an added level of protection against cyber threats; and KVH Cloud Email, a reliable, secure email solution allowing commercial seafarers to send and retrieve email over any available data connection.
Hydrogen-fuelled research vessel to be built to ABS class
A hydrogen-fuelled research vessel commissioned by the University of California San Diego’s Scripps Institution of Oceanography will be built to ABS Class.
Designed by Glosten, the vessel will feature a new hydrogen-hybrid propulsion system that integrates hydrogen fuel cells alongside a conventional diesel-electric power plant, enabling zero-emission operations. The design is scaled so the ship will be able to operate 75 percent of its missions entirely using hydrogen. For longer missions, extra power will be provided by diesel generators.
The 150-foot vessel will be equipped with advanced instruments and sensing systems, along with state-of-the-art laboratories, enabling multidisciplinary research, advancing understanding of the physical and biological processes active in California’s coastal oceans.
“ABS is proud to pioneer the development of hydrogen as marine fuel technology with these partners in a project that has the potential to make a significant contribution to the understanding of our oceans,” said Christopher J. Wiernicki, ABS Chairman, President and CEO. “This project will be closely watched by the industry as it breaks new ground and demonstrates the capabilities of this promising alternative fuel at sea.”
MacGregor secures significant order for RoRo equipment for two vessels
MacGregor, part of Cargotec, has been selected to supply RoRo equipment for two 8000 LM RoRo vessels built by Hyundai Mipo Dockyard (HMD) in South Korea for Cobelfret CLdN, Luxembourg.
The order is booked into Cargotec’s first quarter 2023 orders received. The first vessel is scheduled to be delivered to the owner by the end of the fourth quarter of 2024, and the second vessel in the second quarter of 2025.
Coberlfret CLdN’s new RoRo vessels are designed for shortsea connections and will operate in Northern and Western Europe routes. The order consists of design and complete hardware including stern ramps, ramp covers and hoistable car decks, access ramps, and rampway doors. In addition, MacGregor engineers will provide support and supervision during the installation.
The order was trusted to MacGregor thanks to its long-term relationships with Cobelfret CLdN and Hyundai Mipo Dockyard. Another important reason for the customer to choose MacGregor as the supplier was its strong local presence in South Korea enabling effective and professional capabilities of solving challenges during the project contracting period. Also, MacGregor’s after-sales strong offering was a positive factor in customers’ decision-making.
Gary Walker, COO Shipping at CLdN, comments: “We are pleased to continue our collaboration with MacGregor for our latest new building projects at HMD. We chose MacGregor as the supplier for the RoRo equipment due to the quality of their products, their extensive experience, and their track record of successfully delivering projects.
“Together we have been able to design an efficient and flexible cargo layout that will assist CLdN in fulfilling our ambitions as one of the leading short sea RoRo operators in Northern and Western Europe.”
Magnus Sjöberg, Senior Vice President, Merchant Solutions, MacGregor says: “I am very proud of the relationship that we have established with both CLdN and HMD and of our team succeeding in delivering previous and ongoing projects. Due to those successes, we were able to secure yet another order.
“We are determined to be a reliable partner with our delivery process and build our relationship even further. We are very glad to support CLdN’s sustainable and reliable short-sea operations with our RoRo equipment.”
BMS United, Bunkernet, and SBI merge to form Baseblue company
BMS United Bunkers, Bunkernet, and SBI bunkering BV, leading marine fuel supply companies, announce that they have entered into a definitive merger agreement to create Baseblue, a new industry leader in marine energy solutions.
This merger of equals will result in a larger and financially more reliable company that can offer complete and dependable marine energy solutions to a broader clientele. Baseblue will offer a wider range of services, including alternative fuels, emissions trading, and digital optimisation.
An experienced management team consisting of the three well-tracked brands servicing top-notch clientele for over 30 years will manage Baseblue. Lars H. Nielsen of BMS will assume the position of CEO, Gregoris Gregoriou, Managing Director of Bunkernet, will be appointed Chief Commercial Officer, and Dave Gregory, General Manager of SBI, will be appointed Managing Director of Baseblue North Europe. Antonis Xiros will be appointed Chief Operations Manager and Nicholas Argyrou will be appointed Key Account Director.
“Baseblue brings together the best of the three leading brands to deliver a more comprehensive bunkering management proposal in the market. We are committed to delivering real unrivalled value through tailor-made services,” mentions Lars Nielsen, Baseblue CEO.
The new company will have offices in Greece, Argentina, Cyprus, Hong Kong, and the Netherlands. Baseblue will employ over 80 specialists with global expertise under one brand to offer extensive services. The combined team has a diverse span of maritime knowledge. Baseblue will deliver holistic and integrated bunkering and lubricant solutions, alternative fuel options, risk management consulting, quality testing, surveying and unique post-fixture service for a vessel’s end-to-end coverage.
Thanks to its post-fixture team and digital tools, customers will receive constant input and the ability to track a vessel’s progress in real-time. These proactive procedures will reduce potential issues and waiting time significantly.
This merger comes at a disruptive time for the marine energy industry. Baseblue will help its customers to navigate the transition to alternative fuels as the shipping industry aims to decarbonize. With the addition of SBI experts with experience from in-house future fuel trading, Baseblue will be a trusted partner in their decarbonization journey.
“Baseblue can provide up-to-date knowledge and guidance on upcoming legislation, the availability and supply of alternative fuels to help businesses meet their emissions reduction targets,” says Dave Gregory, Managing Director of Baseblue North Europe. “This comprehensive approach is helping customers switch to cleaner, more sustainable operations.”
“We are committed to staying ahead of the curve,” says Gregoris Gregoriou. “Stronger than the sum of our parts, Baseblue will bring marine energy solutions that deliver real value and drive sustainable growth to its clients. Understanding the need for digitalization, we will safely guide them towards their business goals by offering seamless services through digital decision-making platforms.”
The merger is effective immediately; however, a transition period will exist until the end of April. Beyond the name and logo change, customers will not experience any changes in daily operations.
Britannia makes important donation to support ISWAN’s seafarer welfare work
Britannia P&I Club has made a significant donation to support the work and activities of the International Seafarers’ Welfare and Assistance Network (ISWAN). The donation follows a commitment by Britannia in response to its recent Members’ satisfaction survey.
ISWAN is an international maritime charity which works to improve the lives of seafarers around the world with services, resources, strategies and advocacy. As well as operating a 24-hour helpline as a direct service for seafarers, ISWAN also runs a number of other projects and campaigns in support of seafarers' welfare. Britannia is in the process of becoming an official member of ISWAN.
Britannia is a regular supporter of various charities focused on helping to support seafarers and their families around the world. Since late 2020 the Club has also run an award-winning online safety campaign entitled BSafe. The aim of BSafe is to support its Members’ seafarers through a dedicated website providing best practice information and the latest thinking on onboard safety and security as well as advice on physical and mental wellbeing.
The Britannia Members’ survey was undertaken towards the end of 2022 with Britannia pledging a donation to a charity supporting seafarers for every response received. Almost 60% of Britannia Members submitted survey responses.
“Seafarers have had a lot to deal with in recent years and ISWAN has been doing its best to support them every step of the way,” says Simon Grainge (pictured, centre), Chief Executive, ISWAN. “However, our work is only possible through the help of donors like Britannia. This donation makes a real difference; it means we can continue to give seafarers the emotional and practical support they need when life at sea gets tough.”
“I would like to thank again our Members who took part in our survey and I am sure they will wholeheartedly approve of this donation to ISWAN to support the important work it does in helping seafarers worldwide,” says Andrew Cutler (pictured, right), CEO, Britannia P&I.
The International Chamber of Shipping reaffirms commitment to 2050 net zero
The Board of the International Chamber of Shipping (ICS) has submitted a revised proposal to the IMO that reaffirms the industry’s commitment to meet 2050 net zero carbon goals and sets out the full details of how this can be achieved via a ‘Fund and Reward’ system.
The Fund and Reward mechanism will be financed by a mandatory contribution by ships per tonne of CO2 emitted to an IMO fund, which will reward first movers for the CO2 emissions prevented by the use of alternative fuels such as methanol, ammonia and hydrogen, as well as sustainable biofuels and synthetic fuels plus new technologies including carbon capture.
In the new submission, ICS has set out details of how a mandatory flat rate (levy-based) contribution by ships will be collected by an IMO Maritime Sustainability Fund. Importantly, to achieve consensus among governments, ICS explains how the contribution by ships per tonne of CO2 emitted can be set by IMO at a relatively low level and still be sufficient to narrow the price gap between alternative and conventional fuels.
The funds collected would be used to reward the uptake of alternative fuels by first movers, based on the CO2 emissions prevented, which will significantly reduce the price gap whilst minimising the additional cost of marine fuel to ensure that there will be no disproportionately negative impacts on trade, which is a legitimate concern among many developing economies.
In addition to funding the rewards programme for the uptake of low and zero-carbon fuels the contributions by shipping companies will generate billions of dollars annually to support the production of alternative marine fuels in developing countries. The fund will also be available to de-risk the rollout of the new bunkering infrastructure that will be required on an accelerated timescale.
Simon Bennett, Deputy Secretary General of the International Chamber of Shipping commented: “The Fund and Reward mechanism put forward by ICS is intended to be as simple as possible for IMO to establish. With political will, it can be readily adopted via the existing IMO MARPOL Convention by 2024, so that our commitment to net zero by 2050 can remain plausible given the enormous challenge of transitioning the entire global industry to new fuels and technologies in less than 30 years.
“Our immediate goal is to ensure that some kind of levy-based global economic measure will be prioritised for rapid finalisation by the IMO Marine Environment Protection Committee at its next meeting in July. This critical meeting of governments is also expected to adopt a formal net zero target for shipping which will only be truly credible if a measure such as that proposed by the industry is taken forward immediately.”
The level of contributions to the IMO fund will be a decision for governments. However, ICS has suggested that total funds of about USD 10 billion per annum – which would require an initial contribution quantum of about US$50 per tonne of marine fuel oil consumed – could be sufficient to fund a rewards programme up until about 2030 whilst also providing tens of billion dollars to support maritime GHG reduction projects in developing countries. A previous economic impact assessment, prepared by ICS in collaboration with Clarksons’ Research, suggested that contributions of up to USD 150 or more per tonne of fuel consumed would be unlikely to have significant impacts on States.
Guy Platten, Secretary General of the International Chamber of Shipping added: “If we are to have a sustainable decarbonised future, governments need to support the shipping industry’s willingness to come forward with innovative measures that can incentivise first movers whilst also providing support to developing countries. I am pleased that the principle of a global contribution paid by shipowners into a fund is increasingly being recognised as the fairest and most effective method to create the funds and incentives required to catalyse the decarbonisation of our industry.
“Our board collectively and fully supports this proposal so that no one will be left behind in the transition to net zero fuels for shipping which can only succeed if implemented on a global basis.”
At the previous Marine Environment Protection Committee (MEPC 79) in December 2022, there was increasing support among governments for an economic measure which could provide the world fleet with the needed incentive to effectively accelerate the energy transition.
The latest ICS submission provides additional information to assist a decision at MEPC 80 in July 2023 about the GHG reduction measures to be prioritised for development and explains the core elements of the mechanism that need to be finalised and the variables that will determine the initial quantum of the contribution by ships and the reward rate for the use of eligible alternative fuels. The submission also sets out a full regulatory package, including suggested amendments to MARPOL Annex VI, to demonstrate how the Fund and Reward mechanism can be adopted by IMO Member States by 2024.
Which alternative fuels might be eligible for rewards from the IMO fund will depend on the separate IMO Guidelines on carbon lifecycle assessment of marine fuels which are also scheduled to be adopted by the next MEPC meeting in July 2023.
Mr. Marine acquires Atlas Marine Services in Singapore
Mr. Marine has acquired 100% of the shares in Singapore-based Atlas Marine Services Pte Ltd. With this acquisition, Mr. Marine strengthens its position in Singapore, one of the world’s busiest ports and a key global hub for testing, inspection and certification (TIC) services for the shipping industry.
Mr. Marine is the world’s leading TIC company for marine elevators and it is rapidly growing its global presence in the gas detection and ballast water treatment markets. Atlas Marine is a leading Singaporean company for gas detector calibration and certification, with a strong team of highly skilled technicians. With the acquisition of Atlas Marine, Mr. Marine will become a market leading TIC company in Singapore.
Mr. Marine's existing Singapore team will be merged into Atlas Marine. Atlas Marine will continue to operate under its own brand name, as a Mr. Marine Company. The combined company has a team of 18 people in Singapore, which is expected to grow. Mr. Marine employs 89 people, with offices in Rotterdam (headquarters), Dubai, India, Singapore, Shanghai and Panama, plus a global network of more than 180 service engineers.
Karel Peters (pictured), CEO of Mr. Marine, said: “Shipping companies want fast, reliable, quality service worldwide. Our one-stop-shop global service for marine elevators is very successful and we are rapidly replicating our model to ballast water treatment systems, gas detectors and other onboard equipment.
“We welcome the Atlas team to the family and we are greatly looking forward to expanding our business together, in Singapore and beyond.”
Marinetrans and Door To Deck join forces in marine logistics tie-up
Marinetrans (part of GTS Group), a logistics service provider specialized in supply chain solutions for ship owners and ship management companies, has acquired Door To Deck (D2D), a marine logistics specialist in Cyprus and Greece. Marinetrans already had an office in Athens and will gain a substantially larger presence in Greece with this acquisition.
The co-founders of D2D, Kyriakos Tsitouridis and Michalis Theodosiou, will be driving further business development of D2D, Marinetrans and GTS in the entire Mediterranean area and will become shareholders of GTS Group.
John Burgstra, co-CEO of GTS, commented: “With this partnership, Marinetrans will significantly expand its foothold in the Greek and Mediterranean market, which will enable us to provide our Greek clients with more scale and service close to their home. D2D has a strong position in the Greek market, which they have gained through superior customer service and profound knowledge of the Greek maritime and shipping industry. Teaming up with them is an important strategic step for both companies.”
By joining forces, D2D gains access to an international 3PL and warehousing network and can leverage on GTS’ strong IT infrastructure, project logistics expertise and innovative 5PL solutions.
Kyriakos Tsitouridis, co-founder of D2D, said: “With its international scale and position as global market leader, Marinetrans is at the forefront of providing intelligent and data-driven logistics solutions to ship owners and ship managers. By tapping into this knowledge and international network, we can provide our clients with more value-added services and international boots-on-the-ground.
“Next to that, there is an excellent fit between our customer-centric company cultures and management teams – and we are sure that fit will make this combination a success.”
Michalis Theodosiou, fellow co-founder of D2D, added: “Our clients will definitely reap the benefits of our companies joining forces. They will continue to be serviced by the experienced operating teams that they know and are accustomed to, while gaining access to new solutions and products on top of that.
“One of the services our customers have valued especially is our worldwide on-deck delivery service – and we think we can use each other’s knowledge, network and capabilities when it comes to this service. We’re very much looking forward to meeting all of our new colleagues at GTS.”
Devon shipyard secures £6m green maritime grant award
Award winning Devon-based Coastal Workboats Limited (CWL) has today been announced as one of the recipients of a fresh round of funding thanks to the Government’s UK SHORE £60m injection into the maritime industry.
Launched in September 2022, the Clean Maritime Demonstration Competition’s (CMDC3) third round of funding is part of the Government’s commitment to enable increased tech innovation within the sector to eliminate CO2 emissions, increase efficiencies and decarbonise the industry. Funding is awarded to successful projects from the Department of Transport with Innovate UK acting as delivery partner.
CWL’s successful application secured over £6m to support a £9m project that will deliver a UK-first demonstration of a fully-electric workboat and charging station. CWL are based between Devon and Scotland, with the fresh funding enabling company expansion north of the border.
The purpose-built Electric-Landing Utility Vessel (E-LUV) will initially be demonstrated for four weeks in the Shetland Isles in a workboat capacity, running an inter-island route between West Burrafirth and Papa Stour. The route will run twice daily, five days a week, with a one-way journey time of 45 minutes.
As part of the joint project between CWL, Coastal Pure Ltd, BK Marine Ltd and Coastal Workboats Scotland, the prototype is set apart by the onward solution it presents to future commercial workboat applications. Most workboats are deployed in areas with low or no grid power to support recharging of e-vessels. The new E-LUV addresses this via its accompanying shore-based power unit which can be used to recharge the vessel, power other applications and, with its innovative rapid- charging capability, significantly reduce vessel turnaround. The power unit can also be carried on the E-LUV’s deck, significantly extending the vessel’s working range and enabling underway charging.
CWL Director Brian Pogson described the funding announcement as “a fantastic boost to our work. As with all innovation, the most important resource is the knowledge contained within our highly-experienced team – the CMDC3 funding allows us to safeguard jobs as well as expand that knowledge base on both sides of the border.
“We’ve been hugely excited by the potential of the E-LUV for some time and are eager to see the ways in which its four-week trial at Papa Stour will encourage much-needed further green development across our industry.”
Tatham & Co further expands team with senior appointment
Maritime and commercial law firm, Tatham & Co., has been boosted by the arrival of seasoned solicitor and Master Mariner Paul Haworth (pictured), joining as a senior member of the legal team. Haworth, who is experienced in all aspects of shipping law, joins Tatham & Co’s ‘wet’ team which focuses on Admiralty and crisis response cases.
Haworth joins the London-based Tatham & Co. from Birketts LLP, a law firm with a specialist shipping team, where he was a Legal Director. Prior to that, Haworth was a partner at maritime law firm Winter Scott LLP. Before coming ashore, Haworth spent 16 years at sea on a variety of vessels including gas carriers and cruise ships before moving into the offshore sector with command experience on Dynamic Positioning (DP) Classed vessels.
Since qualifying as a solicitor in 2009, Haworth has conducted collision investigations and regularly advises on collision liability, salvage and wreck removal as well as ‘dry’ charterparty disputes such as unsafe ports, unseaworthiness issues and disputes arising in towage and offshore operations. He has worked on high-profile cases, acting for the salvors in the Rena, Hoegh Osaka and the CCNI Arauco incidents and has also more recently represented cargo interests on the Maersk Honam and the Ever Given.
Tatham & Co. Senior Partner Simon Tatham said: “Paul is an exceptionally experienced solicitor and is well-respected in maritime circles. As part of our wet team, Paul will primarily be involved in the investigation and handling of maritime casualties worldwide as well as the handling of the legal issues arising following an incident or casualty.
“Being able to leverage Paul’s experience and expertise – both as a solicitor and a Master Mariner – further bolsters our ability to support our clients during what can be challenging cases. We are very pleased to welcome him to the firm.”
Haworth’s appointment comes just a few months after Tatham & Co. appointed Chris Farmer, also a solicitor and Master Mariner, and Ioanna Vitta, an Athens-based solicitor, as Partners.
The practice, first established in 2012 and led by partners Simon Tatham, Stephen Askins, James Hickland and Chris Farmer, today comprises a legal team of 17 people.
As a specialist maritime law firm Tatham & Co. acts for ship owners, charterers, marine insurers, Protection and Indemnity (P&I) and Defence clubs, traders, salvors and shipbuilders. The firm’s practice areas cover shipping disputes and contracts, international trade, Admiralty and casualty, marine insurance, harbour and ocean towage, heavylift and offshore as well as piracy, war, terrorism and maritime security.
Nor-Shipping looks to boost US presence with Kallman Worldwide
Visitors to Nor-Shipping, 6-9 June 2023, will be able to get “a taste of the USA”, as the Oslo and Lillestrøm based event week looks to boost exhibitor numbers from across the Atlantic with a revamped U.S. Pavilion. Exhibition specialist Kallman Worldwide has been brought in to manage the dedicated area, with the New Jersey based firm leveraging its 60 years of event expertise to attract a new generation of ambitious ocean businesses.
“Nor-Shipping is the natural meeting place for a global industry keen to connect, build relationships and access future commercial opportunity,” comments Sidsel Norvik, Director, Nor-Shipping. “It therefore makes perfect sense to try and maximise participation from the world’s leading economy, not to mention one of the most exciting places for the latest maritime, energy and ocean developments.
“We’ve been looking at ways to boost North American exhibitors for some time, making sure that our standing with the rest of the world translates to the U.S. market. This is an ideal destination for U.S. firms to connect with potential international customers and stakeholders, while our existing audience would love to access that market and expertise. As this Nor-Shipping is focused on the theme of #PartnerShip its ideal for us to partner with the firm that knows the U.S. exhibition scene better than anyone. It’s great to have Kallman Worldwide onboard for 2023.”
Kallman Worldwide is an official strategic partner of the U.S. Department of Commerce and a recipient of their Presidential “E-Star Award” for excellence in service to U.S. exports. It is the largest organiser of trade show pavilions in its home country. The Kallman team anticipates doubling the size of the U.S. presence at Nor-Shipping through the introduction of their flagship “USA Partnership Pavilion”, to which they have already signed several exhibitors and one U.S. state agency for June's event.
“We’re thrilled to be working together,” says Tom Kallman, President and CEO. “Nor-Shipping is such a key event for the shipping and ocean industries and a global leader in terms of innovation, networking and knowledge sharing. U.S. exhibitors have an excellent chance to take their seat at the top table here, showcasing their first-class people, products and services.
“As advocates for global trade with six decades of international trade fair experience, we’re very pleased to add Nor-Shipping to the portfolio of world-class events we represent. Trans-Atlantic opportunities are greater than ever; we look forward to adding to this already content-rich event.”
The move comes at a time when Norway and the United States are cementing their collaboration on business issues and opportunities impacting upon the ocean. This was highlighted at COP27 in November when Norwegian Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Støre and US Special Envoy for Climate John Kerry launched the Green Shipping Challenge to help accelerate cuts in shipping’s greenhouse gas emissions.
Alongside the newly introduced USA Partnership Pavilion, Nor-Shipping also recently announced its first ever offshore wind pavilion, hosted by Norwegian Offshore Wind (NOW). This will focus on showcasing Norway’s established industry cluster to a global audience, with particular emphasis on opportunity within floating wind, a key growth segment.
In addition to these dedicated areas, Nor-Shipping 2023 will offer visitors and exhibitors a range of national pavilions covering major maritime and ocean industry markets, including Japan, Germany, South Korea, Turkey and Singapore, amongst others.
Nor-Shipping 2023 features five main exhibition halls, spanning some 22,000 m2. The biennial event also boasts an activity programme that includes the C-level Ocean Leadership Conference, Blue Talks, The Fourth International Autonomy Summit, AfterWork social schedule, and much more.
WinGD targets predictive maintenance in cooperation with Bernhard Schulte Shipmanagement
Swiss marine power company WinGD has launched a pilot project for a new engine diagnostics solution that is tailored to greatly simplify engine maintenance for crew and fleet managers. The enhancement to WinGD’s engine monitoring and remote support platform, WiDE (WinGD integrated Digital Expert), is being trialled on a vessel managed by Bernhard Schulte Shipmanagement (BSM). The solution is being hailed an important step to enable smart, predictive maintenance for two-stroke engines.
The pilot installation will monitor five of the engine components crucial for reliable engine operation (cylinder liners, piston rings, exhaust valves, fuel pumps and fuel injectors), recommending condition-based maintenance intervals by using algorithms to estimate their remaining useful life.
BSM Group Technical Superintendent Theodore Ioannou said: “When we approached WinGD for the project we knew that the move towards predictable maintenance was an important element in our strategy using digital tools to reduce costs, improve safety and maximise availability for our customers. We expect that this trial will point us towards operational improvements that could be rolled out across our managed fleet of WinGD-powered vessels.”
WinGD Operations Director Rudolf Holtbecker said: “After the trial, maintenance interval changes will be automated, taking us from fixed time-based maintenance intervals to true condition-based maintenance. That will mean a dramatic reduction in unplanned maintenance and possible human error around scheduling essential tasks, translating to lower engine lifecycle costs for operators using WiDE.”
The trial vessel is a BSM-managed LNG gas carrier with two five-cylinder WinGD X72DF engines. Propulsion Analytics, the software company that assisted in the development of WiDE, is acting as a partner, with further support and verification provided by classification society Lloyd’s Register. Throughout the project the WiDE remote support team will validate and improve the system in preparation for full release.
Through WiDE’s engine diagnostics system, crew on the vessel will be provided with the possible causes to diagnose faults and prompted to add relevant maintenance tasks. The scheduling of the tasks will be calculated based on the predicted remaining useful life for the components affected.
Propulsion Analytics and WinGD will define faults, improve diagnostics and formulate a scheme for condition-based maintenance recommendations. The accuracy of the diagnostics will be validated through feedback from BSM on maintenance activities and subsequent monitoring and analysis.
Holtbecker added: “Supporting our customers with the proactive tools and knowledge that their crew need to run vessels optimally for as long as possible is becoming more and more important, both to reduce costs and meet emissions targets. This important step in engine diagnostics would not be possible without a bold ship operator like BSM willing to test cutting-edge digital concepts and the continued support of Propulsion Analytics in enhancing WiDE’s capabilities.”
WiDE is now installed on more than 200 vessels. A digital twin of each individual engine builds a comprehensive picture of the expected engine performance in all conditions. Anomalies are analysed to identify root causes, dramatically improving troubleshooting time for engine crews and highlighting optimisation potential across the vessel lifecycle.
All WinGD engines are fitted with the hardware required to activate WiDE. In addition to continuous engine performance data records, insights and automated advisory, subscribers gain access to remote support from WinGD operations experts and the WiDE 24x7 emergency response team.
ClassNK grants Innovation Endorsement Provider certification to VesselsValue
ClassNK has granted its Class C Innovation Endorsement Provider Certification to VesselsValue, which provides daily updated ship values and data based on the latest market insights and intelligence.
The Japanese classification society offers its third-party Innovation Endorsement "Provider Certification", which supports innovative initiatives for companies and organizations. As companies pursue ESG-oriented management and SDGs, ClassNK conducts third-party certification on the initiatives to transform their own business methods and organizations to establish a sustainable and competitive business.
There are three categories of certification available to companies according to their innovation activity stage:
- Class C (Concept: Organizational policy and system in place for innovation)
- Class D (Development: Specific innovation activities being carried out)
- Class S (Sustainable Implementation: Sustainable innovation with results implemented in the business).
VesselsValue describes itself as having developed the world's first algorithm driven online ship valuation services, and as providing daily updated ship values and data based on the latest market insights and intelligence under a policy of providing objective and transparent market intelligence to their customers in a new and innovative way, combining deep market insight, state-of-the-art statistical methods, in house experts and computer technologies.
ClassNK conducted an audit of the VesselsValue’s systems, focusing on its policies, plans and organizational structure in the innovative services it is providing, confirmed that the organization and its innovation activities meet the Class C stage requirements, and issued the Class C Innovation Endorsement Certificate for Providers.
ClassNK says it will further promote its Innovation Endorsement for Ships, Products & Solutions, and Providers, and strive to support innovative technologies and initiatives.
AI Tech is key to protecting whales from deadly collisions with ships
Up to 20,000 whales die in ship collisions every year, according to sustainable seafood and fisheries certifier Friend of the Sea. This sobering statistic comes on this year’s World Whale Day, 19 February, an annual awareness day aimed at highlighting the challenges that marine mammals face including climate change, loss of habitat and ship collisions.
Shipping companies can better protect marine life and drastically reduce the thousands of whales killed each year by passing vessels, if they embrace advanced technologies to support safe navigation and improved situational awareness.
Yarden Gross, CEO and Co-founder of Orca AI, the developer of a marine-purposed smart situational awareness platform, said: “The vast number of whales killed by vessels is startling and must be addressed. Many shipping companies have started to leverage AI and computer vision-based technologies on their vessels to detect, track, and alert the navigating crew to sea mammals in the surrounding area. This is a major leap in curbing marine mammal strikes and reducing whales’ mortality rates.
“The Orca AI platform taps into six external cameras installed on the vessel’s monkey island [the top most accessible height of a ship], and relays the information to a digital display that officers use for navigating, enabling them to spot any potential hazards including marine life.”
Gross added that an AI platform makes up for the limitations of people’s eyesight, by providing safe ship navigation in low-visibility conditions. Other industries such as aviation and automotive have already recognised the limitations of humans in real-time decision making. As such, automation has become an integral part of cars and planes today.
“The essential role of navigating safely and avoiding collisions with sea life and other vessels can be performed by AI-powered technology that constantly observes and analyses a ship’s surroundings,” Gross said. “The shipping industry must recognise this reality and adopt the same approach as other sectors. In waterways with low-to-zero visibility, and which are also becoming increasingly congested with larger vessels, the risks are too high.”
MSC Group and MSC Foundation support earthquake relief initiatives in Türkiye and Syria
The ship MSC Aurelia, which departed on 16 February from the Port of Naples, is on its way to the port of Iskenderun with 60 pallets of basic necessities, food and beverages.
With a cargo capacity of 40 trucks and 400+ cars, loaded basic necessities and first aid items collected by the MSC Group and the MSC Foundation, together with the Rava Foundation.
The cargo onboard includes 60 pallets of medical supplies, food, hygiene items, warm clothing and blankets, as well as toys and crayons for children. An additional 50 boxes of thermal shirts are being carried on behalf of the Vatican.
MSC Aurelia will remain docked in port in Türkiye, at the authorities’ disposal, to provide accommodation for those impacted by the earthquake. Furthermore, MSC Türkiye has set up temporary accommodation at Iskenderun port using empty containers for 300 MSC Group employees and their families who unfortunately lost their homes in the earthquake disaster. MSC Türkiye is also arranging for the distribution of food, beverages and items to meet basic needs.
In addition, thanks to the collaboration between the MSC Foundation and the UN Refugee Agency (UNHCR), MSC is also arranging for the provision of thousands of empty containers for the provinces that have been hit the hardest by the earthquake to accommodate families who have been displaced.
The support of the MSC Group and the MSC Foundation also includes a global fundraising campaign among employees of the group. Every donation by an employee of MSC will be matched by the MSC Foundation and will be used to support organizations working on reconstruction projects in Türkiye and Syria.
“We feel a strong sense of obligation to act promptly in order to support the people most in need by all means. We are a part of a global organization that can set in motion a large-scale operation by involving foundations and associations that we collaborate with all around the world,” said Daniela Picco, Executive Director of the MSC Foundation.
“It is not the first time that MSC Foundation and the MSC Group have been on the front lines of emergency relief operations: in 2022, we provided extraordinary funding worth millions of euros to offer aid to refugees from Ukraine and led eight emergency relief initiatives in nine countries, strengthening our global emergency capabilities.”
OneCare Solutions launches Corporate Wellness Programmes for safeguarding employee health
OneCare Solutions, a leading health and wellbeing platform, announces a new initiative for creating bespoke Corporate Wellness Programs suited to each client. The elements that can be included in a programme, cover multiple approaches to safeguarding employee health and wellbeing, such as 24/7 mental health support, nutrition and healthy living training, and fitness schedules.
OCS also works with technologically sophisticated partners to include in the Corporate Wellness Programs such options as Clinical Decision Support Software from partner Smart Blood Analytics Swiss, and a wellbeing App that integrates healthcare components. Smart Blood Analytics Swiss (SBAS) uses advanced machine learning algorithms to provide different clinical decision support software for predicting the most probable diagnoses based solely on an individual's blood test results.
To mark the launch of the Corporate Wellness Programme offering, OneCare Solutions recently held a weeklong wellbeing event for the leading maritime company, Columbia Group, with activities ranging from screening tests, trainings with fitness instructors, informative sessions with health professionals, exercise programs that can be performed in a work setting, directions for making healthy meals and snacks, and body composition measurements.
Marinos Kokkinis, Managing Director of OneCare Solutions, said: “The range of medical specialists, experts, and activities that go into our Corporate Wellness Programs, enable us to offer company leaders and managers a comprehensive approach to improving wellness throughout their organization. It provides employees with assurance of expert support and guidance for their own wellbeing, which is vital given the pressures on individuals in daily life.”
Expert advice in the recent OneCare Solutions wellbeing week included an endocrinologist speaking about diabetes; a psychologist talking about stress in the workplace; a cardiologist with advice about hypertension; nutritionists speaking about nutrition during menopause a gynecologist who gave advice on menopause and women’s health and wellbeing; and a physiotherapist explaining office ergonomics.
In addition, OneCare Solutions offered snacks and breakfast, complete with their nutrient analysis and a guide on the nutrient synergies that arose from each recipe.
For information about the Corporate Wellness Programs, visit the OneCare Solutions website, onecare.solutions.
-ENDS-
ONE unveils new Israel shuttle service (ILX)
Ocean Network Express (ONE) is pleased to announce the Israel Express (ILX), a new weekly Israel shuttle service, connecting Israel to the hub of Damietta, Egypt.
ONE says this new shuttle service was created in response to the growing demand for both import and export cargo from Israel. It will provide customers with better transit time between Israel and Egypt. Through this connection, customers can enjoy transportation access from Israel and Egypt to other global locations across ONE’s network.
The first sailing for Israel Express (ILX) will launch from 29th March with the following rotation: Damietta (Wed/Thu) – Haifa (Sat/Sun) – Ashdod (Tue/Wed) – Damietta (Wed).
Maersk and Mawani break ground for Saudi Arabia’s largest Integrated Logistics Park at JIP
A.P. Moller - Maersk (Maersk) and Saudi Ports Authority (Mawani) have begun work on Saudi Arabia’s largest Integrated Logistics Park at Jeddah Islamic Port (JIP). Present at the ground-breaking ceremony were H.E. Mr Omar Bin Talal Hariri, President of Mawani; H.E. Ambassador Liselotte Plesner, Danish Ambassador to Saudi Arabia; Mr Abdullah Al Zamil, CEO of Zamil Construction; and Mr Mohammad Shihab, Managing Director, Maersk Saudi Arabia.
The greenfield project spread over an area of 225,000 sq. m. will be the first of its kind at JIP offering an array of solutions with an aim to connect and simplify the supply chains of Maersk’s customers in the Kingdom.
The $346 million investment project will not only create bespoke logistics solutions but also focus heavily on decarbonising logistics with the use of renewable energy to power the entire facility. The project is expected to create more than 2,500 direct and indirect jobs in Saudi Arabia.
Maersk’s Mohammad Shihab said: “We have come a long way in realising our strategy to offer integrated logistics to our customers. Today’s ground-breaking ceremony is yet another milestone in building a logistics ecosystem that strengthens our position as an enabler of global logistics, while also focusing on our core targets around decarbonising logistics to achieve net zero by 2040.”
The bonded and non-bonded warehousing & distribution (W&D) facility will cover more than 70% of the total area of the Integrated Logistics Park while the remaining part will act as a hub for transhipment, air freight and LCL cargo. To cater to the rapid penetration of eCommerce in Saudi Arabia, the facility will also have a dedicated eCommerce fulfilment centre. The Integrated Logistics Park will be able to handle annual volumes of close to 200,000 TEUs across different products.
The Integrated Logistics Park will be 100% powered with solar energy generated from rooftop solar panels spread over 65,000 sq. m. Further, the trucks used for transportation at the Park will be fully electric vehicles.
The design of the facility utilises higher storage density, mechanized pallet-in-out solutions, a product-to-man pick-n-pack strategy and optimized flows, improving productivity by approximately 50% and effectively bringing down emissions. There will be a provision for additional space for E-com, value-added service (“VAS”) and Omni Channel Fulfilment across all storage types.
Maersk will deploy a state-of-the-art warehouse management system that implements modern technologies and digital solutions for efficient inventory management, track & trace at the unit level and offers rich dashboards for higher visibility and deeper insights. These systems will help improve efficiencies and build a competitive edge for Maersk’s customers.
Windward launches Reasons for Delay capability to improve supply chain resilience
Leading Maritime AI™ company Windward has announced the launch of additional ETA Insights and will now provide the reasons for delay. This new AI capability is included in Windward’s Ocean Freight Visibility (OFV) solution and automatically provides customers with actionable visibility to mitigate the impact of delays and improve internal and external business operations.
Supply chain woes over the past few years have propelled the digitalization of the supply chain industry, and ocean freight visibility has become widely accepted as a critical capability. Despite the recent improvement in ocean freight reliability, over 40 percent of shipments are delayed with 25 percent of these delays being due to complications during transhipment, and 19 percent due to rollovers caused by carriers who regularly overbook their capacity, relying on delayed deliveries to their Point of Loading (POL).
Windward’s models, developed by maritime and AI specialists, are specifically trained to understand the multitude of factors affecting the movement of goods at sea. Using Deep Learning (DL) models, Reasons for Delay will automatically provide the cause of any shipment delayed by three or more days. This allows supply chain partners – including logistic service providers, freight forwarders, cargo owners, shippers, container ports, terminals, liners, and more – to take the next step and utilize the actionable insights, to make more well-informed, fact-based decisions, and provide accurate updates for both internal and external stakeholders.
“Visibility is critical to the supply chain,” said Ami Daniel (pictured), CEO and Co-Founder of Windward. “Knowing your shipment is delayed is a necessity, but knowing why your shipment was delayed further empowers customers to take action, save costs, and minimize the business impact of delays.
“Windward’s new AI-based iteration of visibility is actionable, and Reasons for Delay is our next step to provide stakeholders with the tools to increase efficiency and decrease costs when it comes to their shipping operations.”
Windward’s Reasons for Delay is an added capability on the company’s Ocean Freight Visibility (OFV) solution which offers Maritime AI Predicted ETA, a tool utilising robust datasets and behavioral models to provide accurate ETA predictions and real-time visibility into container and vessel journeys allowing users to better predict, plan, and proactively mitigate supply chain risks.
Windward's Reasons for Delay capability identifies three types of reasons for delays: rollover, transhipment delay, and late departure, and will be available to existing and prospective customers via Windward’s web application, API, and daily email updates.
DB Schenker and MSC seal important biofuel deal to help reduce supply chain emissions
Freight forwarder DB Schenker has secured an arrangement to use 12,000 metric tons of biofuel component for all of its own consolidated cargo, less-than-container load (LCL), full-container-load (FCL) and refrigerated containers (reefer containers), from MSC Mediterranean Shipping Company.
The amount of biofuel purchased is enough to save an additional 35,000 metric tons of CO2 equivalents (CO2e) along the entire production chain (well-to-wake) in the market. The equivalent of around 30,000 standard containers (TEU) may be shipped with net-zero CO2 emissions, depending on how the fuel is used during navigation.
The purchase agreement signed this month represents one of the largest carbon-insetting biofuel deals between a freight forwarder and a shipping company. It sets out the use of certified sustainable, second-generation biofuels - derived from used cooking oil - instead of conventional fossil-based marine fuel. The 12,000 metric tons of biofuel component will be blended between 20 and 30%, resulting in approximately 50,000 metric tons of blended biofuel to be used in MSC’s container ships. The agreement allows DB Schenker to offer its customers an off-the-shelf product that enables net-zero ocean transport.
This partnership is the latest impressive example of DB Schenker's commitment to clean logistics and is another solid contribution to increasing the demand for alternative fuels in the industry.
Similar to net-zero flights using sustainable aviation fuel (SAF), customers can now book regular net-zero ocean transport and receive an annual certificate of their emission reduction for their carbon footprint. The latter means that every metric ton of biofuel is bunkered in addition to any legal mandate and carrier’s set fuel purchase orders.
Thorsten Meincke (Pictured, left, signing deal with MSC CEO Soren Toft), Global Board Member for Air & Ocean Freight at DB Schenker, said: "Together with MSC, we are offering our customers a convenient and clean solution using the latest generation of marine biofuel to help them achieve a real additional reduction in their emissions.
“We are doing this because we firmly believe it is the right thing to do and are therefore paying for biofuel purchases in advance. One thing is certain: the more customers demand climate neutrality throughout supply chains, the faster we achieve clean container ocean freight."
Caroline Becquart, Senior Vice President of MSC, said: “Decarbonising ocean freight cannot be achieved by a single player and requires collaboration between shipping and logistics companies and their customers.
“MSC Biofuel Solution is our first certified carbon insetting program that reduces emissions in our customers’ supply chains, accelerating the energy transition by creating demand for net-zero-carbon shipping and delivering direct CO2 savings. We’re delighted to partner with DB Schenker, with whom we share similar climate ambitions along our collective journey to net zero.”
Biofuel can be used for regular ocean freight operations without adjusting a ship’s infrastructure or supply chain, making it a particularly convenient solution. MSC Biofuel Solution is designed to be a win-win approach to move from ambition to action. MSC bunkers sustainable biofuel, and clients benefit from the CO2 savings, passing them on throughout the shipping value chain. This differentiates the program from carbon offsetting initiatives that focus on future emission reductions outside the shipping industry.
ONE to work with Sony Network Communications Europe on smart container solution
Ocean Network Express (ONE) announces plans to develop and integrate a smart container solution across their global fleet. The development of the smart container solution will be done in collaboration with Sony Network Communications Europe (Sony).
As one of the largest container carriers in the world, this collaboration brings together ONE’s extensive cargo shipping experience with Sony’s expertise in the development and innovation of world-class sensing and connectivity technologies. Sony already offers the Visilion real-time tracking solution for freight units (pictured).
The technology-enabled containers will give ONE greater insights about their container fleet. The data will enable better visibility of the containers, faster and proactive decision making and more, allowing more efficient container movement.
Customers will also stand to benefit from smart container solutions as they will be able to access live updates throughout a shipment’s journey. It will also provide more reliable shipping data for easy, transparent communication with relevant stakeholders.
Hiroki Tsujii, Managing Director, Product & Network, ONE, says: “From its very inception, ONE is a business that believes in the value of collaboration. Now, together with Sony, we are excited to create the future of container shipping. This is a future where we have access to the insights we need to offer our customers a higher quality of service to forge a new standard of process excellence.
“The development of this smart container solution will combine the very best from experts in our respective fields. Our joint mission will aim to push the limits of what we are capable of with innovative logistics technologies.”
Erik Lund, Head of the Tracking Division, Visilion, Sony Network Communications Europe, says: “We are honoured to collaborate with ONE and dedicated to creating an advanced solution for smart containers. The real-time insights gained across ONE’s fleet will allow them to further optimise their shipping business and in doing so, improve customer service. We look forward to working together and creating the future of logistics.”
Mooreast eyes Aberdeen facility to support floating offshore wind energy projects
Fast-growing international mooring and anchoring specialist Mooreast Holdings Ltd. could bring at least 100 jobs to Aberdeen after signing a collaboration agreement which it is hoped will help the company realise its ambition to open a subsea foundation production facility in the Granite City.
Once secured, the site, which will also support the consolidation and assembly of mooring components, will act as a European base for Mooreast’s efforts to target an increasing number of offshore wind projects, including the ScotWind auction, the Celtic Sea Cluster and the Innovation and Targeted Oil and Gas (INTOG) project, which are expected to deliver over 20 GW, 5 GW and 4.5 GW of floating wind energy respectively.
The company is working with ETZ Ltd, the private sector-led and not for profit body spearheading the North East of Scotland’s energy transition ambition. The collaboration agreement signed with ETZ Ltd aims to identify a potential location for the establishment of a manufacturing facility in Aberdeen, Scotland.
The organisation will also help Mooreast in developing a skills and jobs plan that will support local job opportunities.
Sim Koon Lam, CEO of Mooreast, said: “Upon completion, the facility will serve as a cornerstone of Mooreast’s expansion into Europe, and will enable us to produce high-quality products and services for our renewable energy customers in the region.”
The collaboration agreement to explore establishing a manufacturing facility in Aberdeen, Scotland, was signed at a ceremony at the Singapore headquarters of Mooreast, and was witnessed by Ivan McKee, Scotland’s Minister for Business, Trade, Tourism and Enterprise.
He said: “It is great to witness the signing of this collaboration agreement. As the world’s largest floating offshore wind leasing round, ScotWind puts us at the forefront of the global development of offshore wind and represents a massive step forward in our transition to net zero.
“As set out in our National Strategy for Economic Transformation and our Inward Investment Plan, it is critically important that we work closely with inward investors by offering our unique ‘Team Scotland’ approach to support their growth and expansion into Scotland, enabling us to deliver inclusive economic prosperity.”
Andy Rodden, ETZ Ltd’s Offshore Renewables Director, who was also present for the signing, added: “Mooreast’s intention to explore establishing significant operations in Aberdeen is warmly welcome and testament to the critical mass this region has in the skills and expertise required to support such an exciting development.
“Owing to a world-class oil and gas sector, our region is home to 75% of the world’s subsea engineering capability and the highest concentration of energy supply chain companies anywhere in the UK.
“We are at the very early stages of this particular process, but this potential development reflects the type of investment that will help us realise this ambition. I’m therefore delighted we will be working closely with Mooreast on a range of areas as we seek to secure a positive outcome.”
S&P Global Commodity Insights announces key speakers and agenda for FUJCON 2023
S&P Global Commodity Insights is pleased to announce further details of the 13th International Fujairah Bunkering & Fuel Oil Forum (FUJCON 2023), to be held at the Novotel Fujairah on March 13 –15, 2023.
Jointly hosted by the Department of Industry & Economy, Government of Fujairah and Port of Fujairah, with the support of Fujairah Oil Industry Zone, FUJCONis rapidly gathering momentum with key speakers from the leading oil and bunker companies.
Following a record oil handling year in 2022, Fujairah will see new storage projects kick-off during 2023 with current storage capacity standing at 11.1 million cbm. The investments will further strengthen its position as one of the Middle East’s largest storage, trading and bunkering hubs, which saw close to 12,500vessels calling at the Fujairah Offshore Anchorage Area in 2022.
Furthermore, the port will commission its new dry bulk export facility in Dibba, adding an initial 18m ton of aggregate handling capacity. The Etihad Rail project will complete its connection inside the Port of Fujairah and link Fujairah with other key economic zones in the United Arab Emirates for the movement of containers and general cargo.
The UAE Energy & Infrastructure Minister, His Excellency Eng. Suhail Mohamed Al Mazrouei, will deliver a ministerial address on the opening day of the forum on March 14, 2023. Following the ministerial address, other eminent thought leaders will also provide state of the industry addresses, including: Dave Ernsberger, Head of Market Reporting & Trading Solutions, S&P Global Commodity Insights, and Tyler Baron, CEO, Minerva Bunkering
Through presentations and roundtable discussions, key decision makers, thought leaders and marine experts will share their views, analysis and insights on the global bunker and fuel oil market developments, as well as challenges and steps to be taken by the marine industry in facing the future fuels development.
Under the theme “The Maritime Energy Transition and Future Fuels”, the two-day forum will provide a packed agenda featuring seven sessions. Speakers will also explore the energy transition and carbon reduction requirements, which are forcing a paradigm shift in the maritime industry and affecting the bunkering and fuel oil sectors.
The debate and discussion on the first day, March 14, will cover a range of topics, including: decarbonization and the role of finance in the shipping industry; market developments and Fujairah’s future fuel options from the supply, operational, environmental and economic perspectives; fuel oil trade flows and pricing trends; as well as operational challenges and technological developments.
On the second day, March 15, speakers will continue to interact with topics, including: global carbon tax or State vs IMO regulations; contract terms and rules on carbon neutral cargoes; role of LNG in the decarbonization pathway; decarbonization options for maritime operations; demand for biofuels and methanol supplies; as well as terminal infrastructure changes to handle storage of alternative fuels. The forum will be closed with offshore site visit to the Port of Fujairah.
Dr Mohammed Saeed Al Kindi, Chairman, FUJCON Steering Committee, commented: "The hosting of the much anticipated in-person FUJCON 2023 affirms the commitment of the Department of Industry & Economy, Government of Fujairah, and the Port of Fujairah as hosts, to provide a meeting ground for important dialogue, deliberation and discussion. These have been the distinguishing features of FUJCON since its inception and it continues to provide a fitting stage for a world class event on the international bunkering community’s annual calendar."
For more information about FUJCON 2023, please visit www.fujcon.com
Survitec’s pre-inspection delivers greater efficiencies for dry dock safety servicing
Global Survival Technology solutions provider Survitec has introduced a new, formalised pre-inspection solution as part of its dry dock safety service to help ship owners and managers optimise and expedite dry docking schedules.
As part of Survitec’s fully managed, “safety-first” dry docking solution, the pre-inspection service is designed to support the servicing and inspection of all onboard safety and lifesaving equipment.
A qualified service technician boards the ship during normal port operations to assess and verify the scope of work, with the added benefit of helping to ensure dry dockings don’t overrun and ships leave on time, fully certified and within budget.
“It smooths the entire dry docking process,” said Survitec Technical Sales Manager, Jan-Oskar Lid. “Advance planning pays dividends in terms of efficiency and transparency for owners and operators to plan and budget accordingly with a full scope of work planned and ready before the vessel enters dry dock.
“A pre-inspection does not have to take place in the same yard or location where the dry dock will take place. This is the advantage of our global service station network.”
As part of the service, Survitec teams review and set out a schedule of works in line with regulatory requirements. This includes collating and reviewing the necessary safety certificates and documentation and liaising with the shipyard and suppliers to expedite parts, procurement and equipment servicing.
An additional benefit is that it can also reduce the risk of any unexpected work cropping up during dry docking that could lead to unplanned delays, additional cost and lost revenue.
“The value of a pre-inspection call or visit has been demonstrated time and again over our many years’ experience of safety servicing,” explained Lid.
“Our trained technicians can identify issues that the ship owner or manager may not have yet recognised or may have been misdiagnosed. For example, one customer ordered a gas top-up for a CO2 low pressure system. During a preparatory call, we were able to identify an underlying issue with the tank and arrange the necessary repairs. If this issue had not been identified until the time of service, the vessel could have been left off hire for longer, causing costly delays to their operating schedule.”
Flexibility is a key benefit of the Survitec dry dock safety service. Referring to one project where LNG vessels were initially scheduled to dry dock in Qatar, Lid said: “At the last minute, the customer notified us that two of the vessels would be shifted to Singapore. This was not a problem for us as we have the network and resources to accommodate the change of plan.”
As Finn Lende-Harung, Commercial Director – Fire, explained: “With 100+ years’ experience as an OEM, we are fully conversant with IMO, Flag, Class and brand requirements for the different equipment and service intervals. We also have a global servicing network and the reach to service at all the major dry dock locations worldwide, in line with a vessel’s operational profile.”
“All our technicians follow standardised procedures to ensure the level of service, quality and professionalism are the same irrespective of location. From the customer’s point of view, they are dealing with a single solution provider, one trusted supplier that solves all the issues.”
“Dry dockings are highly complex projects,” continued Lende-Harung. “There can never be any cast-iron guarantees that everything will go completely to plan, but our service affords ship owners and managers confidence of compliance, cost transparency and greater certainty that vessels will complete on schedule and with a clean certificate without any unnecessary down-time or drain on resources.”
UK Ship Register announced as Platinum Sponsor of LISW23
The UK Ship Register (UKSR) is a long-time supporter of London International Shipping Week (LISW) and is proud to be a Platinum Sponsor for this year’s event (LISW23).
Celebrating its 10th anniversary this year, LISW is one of the most respected and valued maritime events in the world, showcasing the best of UK maritime. The UK Flag is an important part of the UK maritime offer, recognised for its leading global performance in maritime safety, the welfare of seafarers and protection of the marine environment.
With thousands of international visitors expected and a full agenda of events, the UK Flag team will be available throughout the week to shine a spotlight on the value it offers, its significant expertise, a personal and tailored service and non-negotiable safety standards.
The UK Flag expanded its international eligibility in 2019 and has been able to offer more choice and flexibility to its customers. Registration fees are amongst some of the most competitive globally and there is no annual flag tax to pay. The introduction of the Alternative Compliance Scheme means customers can also take advantage of a dedicated team of world-renowned Maritime & Coastguard Agency (MCA) surveyors or have the flexibility of being able to delegate to Class.
At LISW 2021, the MCA showcased its commitment and work in decarbonisation. Since then, the UK Flag team has set out to support innovative UK registered ship owners and operators with personalised advice. The UKSR has seen a succession of newbuild LNG and Hydrogen dual fuelled vessels join its fleet as customers look to trusted MCA expertise on the transition to more sustainable shipping.
Commenting on the partnership, Dan Vivian, Commercial Director at the UKSR, said: “I am delighted the UK Ship Register is supporting this year’s much-anticipated London International Shipping Week. We greatly look forward to showcasing what the UK Flag has to offer and meeting with our industry colleagues throughout the week.”
LISW23 will be held in the week of September 11-15, 2023 and will play host to the maritime world with hundreds of events attracting thousands of international industry decision makers into London during the week. The headline LISW23 Conference will be held on Wednesday September 13th while the LISW23 Gala Dinner will be held on Thursday September 14th.
For further information visit the website: www.londoninternationalshippingweek.com
NorthStandard meets target for formal launch with enhanced S&P ‘A’ stable rating
NorthStandard has achieved its first objective of completing its formal launch on the P&I industry’s 20 February renewal date, opening for business by announcing the team to lead it into a new era for marine insurance.
Launched yesterday from headquarters in the UK, and with offices throughout Europe, Asia and the Americas, NorthStandard, formed through the merger of North and Standard Club, immediately becomes one of the world’s largest providers of mutual maritime cover. With over 390 million GT of owned and chartered tonnage on its books, the new entity consolidates annual premiums of around US$800 million, employs over 700 people and brings together over 300 years of P&I heritage.
As expected, NorthStandard will be led by Managing Directors Jeremy Grose (pictured, right) and Paul Jennings (left) - respectively previously CEOs of the Standard Club and North legacy organisations.
“Eleven months on from our first public announcement, the successful launch of NorthStandard creates a fresh and distinctive force in marine insurance,” said Jeremy Grose. “Building on scale, comprehensive services and the depth of our talent pool, NorthStandard provides the resilience members need from their P&I partner to meet the shipping world’s challenges and opportunities. We are fully prepared to deliver even better service, support and cover than ever.”
Earlier this week, S&P Global confirmed that NorthStandard, formed from the merger of two A-rated clubs, has been given an enhanced ‘A’ rating with stable outlook based on its competitive position, financial strength, 'AAA' capital adequacy and sound balance-sheet risk management. Grose commented, “this improved rating assessment from S&P confirms that NorthStandard has the financial resilience and certainty members need from their P&I partner in 2023 and beyond.”
In a series of appointments designed to make the best use of talents within the new organisation, NorthStandard, has confirmed the following senior roles (amongst others), subject to regulatory approval where applicable:
• Managing Directors - Jeremy Grose and Paul Jennings, previous CEOs of the legacy Standard Club and North organisations.
• Chief Strategy Officer – Ed Davies.
• Chief Financial Officer - Nick Jelley.
• Chief Underwriting Officer - Thya Kathiravel.
• Chief Claims Officer – Sam Kendall-Marsden.
• Chief Information Officer - Laura Linturn.
• Global Director (People & Culture) – Alex Miell.
• Group General Counsel – Chris Owen.
• Chief Operating Officer - Dipo Oyewole.
• Chief Risk Officer – Lee Williamson.
• Global Head of FD&D Claims – Katherine Birchall.
• Global Head of Mutual Underwriting - Mark Collins.
• Global Head of P&I Claims – Matt Moore.
• Head of External Affairs – Mike Salthouse.
“This is a truly exciting moment for service-led P&I as we launch NorthStandard and announce the leadership team entrusted with ensuring that members worldwide experience greater value, certainty, choice, responsiveness and easier access to unrivalled expertise,“ said Paul Jennings. “NorthStandard will also be the P&I mutual of choice as an employer because its unique blend of service scope, influence, flexibility and innovation will co-exist with the family ethos and culture on which both North and Standard Club built their reputations.”
In their final renewal statements as separate entities, North P&I and Standard Club reported resilient performances through another extraordinary year of challenge for the maritime industries. Both clubs are expecting positive combined ratios and stable levels of capital, notwithstanding losses across their investment portfolios given the turbulence in financial markets over the last year.
As well as an unusually benign year for claims on the International Group pooling arrangements, North and Standard have benefitted from their efforts to adjust premium rates to sustainable levels, as well as continued diversification. The positive decision of Standard & Poor’s to move NorthStandard to a “stable” outlook affirms the resilience of the new club’s financial and capital position.
North’s diversification strategy continues to generate positive returns, with Sunderland Marine and North Hull experiencing continued growth in market share and premium income. North’s total premium income for 2022/23 rose to over US$445 million, with combined renewed tonnage at 20 February 2023 currently estimated to be approximately 240M GT.
Standard Club saw total premiums rise to US$350 million and combined owned and chartered renewed tonnage at 20 February 2023 of approximately 155M GT. Its extension into Coastal and Inland vessels in Asia continued to attract new business, while Strike & Delay activities delivered strong year-on-year premium growth.
Building on this success, NorthStandard, with its enhanced ‘A’ stable rating from S&P, is one of the world’s largest providers of mutual maritime cover. With over 390 million GT of owned and chartered tonnage on its books and annual premiums of around US$800 million, it employs over 700 people and brings together over 300 years of P&I heritage.
For the 2023/24 Policy Year, members of North and Standard Club have renewed into their existing insurance entities, with 2023/24 certificates and documentation retaining Standard Club and North branding. It is anticipated that insurance entities will adopt a common NorthStandard policy from 20 February 2024.
One year on, Ukrainian seafarers now largely back in the labour force reports Danica
Ukrainian seafarers have largely returned to international shipping thereby restoring balance in crew availability, reports Danica Crewing Specialists on the anniversary of the war in Ukraine which impacted crewing rotations and seafarer welfare on a huge scale.
Demonstrating their resilience in the face of horrendous adversity, Ukrainian seafarers and their families are now mostly based in other European countries, and many are cutting short their shore leave time, meaning crew levels are now back to where they were before the Russian invasion.
Henrik Jensen (pictured), CEO of Danica Crewing Specialists, outlined how the crewing situation has evolved over the past year: “When the war broke out about 60% of Ukrainian seafarers were onboard merchant ships. A few wanted to return home immediately but the majority stayed onboard and when their tenure came to the planned end, providing their families were safe, they asked to stay longer to guarantee an income.
“Over the summer this situation changed as seafarers were reunited with their families who had fled to other countries, and at this point many of them extended their shore leave breaks, creating a brief shortage of relievers.
“However, the situation has now changed again and since the autumn we have seen a balance establish between supply and demand for Ukrainian seafarers.”
Mr Jensen explained that the costs of re-establishing family life from scratch in a new country, coupled with the increased cost of living in EU countries and the UK, means Ukrainian seafarers now seek to return to paid work at sea sooner.
“Previously most Ukrainian senior officers were on a four months on/off rotation, but now they are more likely to serve five months onboard and only two months at home, and these patterns are similar for other ranks too. The result of this is that each seafarer spends more time at sea and therefore this has compensated for any seafarers who are still not able to leave Ukraine. I anticipate that this crewing pattern will remain in place for some time to come,” he said.
According to the most recent ICS/BIMCO Seafarer Workforce Report, Ukraine tops the list of countries identified as most likely to supply seafarers in the future. It is a country with a long maritime history – seafaring is a tradition in Ukraine and there are even senior officers who are the third-generation sailors in their family.
Ukraine’s seafarers have undergone a traumatic time but are determined to maintain their seagoing tradition and reputation, even if their sense of loss is palpable and, one year on, still no end to the conflict is in sight. As one 25-year-old employed by Danica put it: “Ukrainians are some of the best seafarers in the industry and this situation only gives us bigger and bigger motivation to protect this status.”
Squire Patton Boggs and The Baltic Exchange partner to launch vessel transaction service
Squire Patton Boggs (SPB) has partnered with The Baltic Exchange to provide a vessel sale & purchase (S&P) transaction closing service for the global shipping industry. The service will be led by SPB’s 30 strong Commodities & Shipping Group co-chaired by Chris Swart and Barry Stimpson, and will be underpinned by the Baltic Exchange’s independent Singapore based escrow operation.
The Baltic Exchange’s escrow service is already used for a wide range of transactional work, including the sale and purchase of vessels.
The vessel S&P transaction closing service will be driven by a team of SPB specialists with a track record in maritime finance and acquisition of maritime assets, including Singapore-based partners Kate Sherrard and Brian Gordon. They form part of the firm’s market-leading Commodities & Shipping Group that advises on all aspects of international trade and shipping across key markets, including Singapore, London, the Americas, Australia and the Middle East. The Baltic Exchange’s support in providing corresponding escrow services means that shipowners will have access to a trusted, independent and efficient means of holding and exchanging funds when purchasing and selling vessels. This will give all parties confidence that the necessary and compliant due diligence checks are performed, funds are held securely, and the exchange of funds is executed smoothly and professionally with close attention to detail.
SPB partner Brian Gordon said: “We are launching this service to provide a one-stop service for shipowners and offer support for every aspect of a vessel sale or purchase. These include preliminary negotiations, inspection and the due diligence of the vessel, advising on and finalising a Memorandum of Agreement, preparation of documents and vessel for delivery as well as closing of the transaction. In partnering with the Baltic Exchange, an independent and renowned provider of trusted shipping benchmarks, we are able to offer a secure, best-in-class service where we can act in the best interests of shipping clients and provide the high standard of service they deserve.”
The Baltic Exchange Chief Executive Mark Jackson said: “This partnership will deliver a vessel S&P transaction closing service which is second to none. As an organisation which is owned by the Singapore Exchange (SGX) Group and compliant with Monetary Authority of Singapore (MAS) anti-money laundering requirements, users of the service are assured of a high quality and independent escrow support from the Baltic Exchange for their transactions. Secure escrow accounts are maintained with two leading AA-rated banks in Singapore.”
Strategic Marine signs MOU for three Brevity-class hybrid Crew Transfer Vessels with HST Marine
Strategic Marine has signed a Memorandum of Understanding with Purus Wind’s HST Marine to build three Brevity-class Crew Transfer Vessels for the UK-based offshore vessel owner-operator.
The agreement binds the two parties to negotiations on a vessel building contract for the Chartwell Marine-designed 27m catamarans.
The Brevity-class designs, launched in June 2022, are specifically designed to meet the needs of the offshore wind support vessel market and Strategic Marine has previously committed to build three vessels with progressive deliveries from 2024.
The Brevity-class CTV is part of Chartwell Marine's new offshore wind support vessel range and is specifically designed to meet the rigorous demands of the market.
The high-powered CTV features enhanced manoeuvrability and stability due to its signature hull form optimisation. This also ensures cost-effective and low-emissions operation via its hybrid systems, a growing requirement of the offshore wind industry and marine decarbonisation efforts.
The vessel has a capacity of up to 32 personnel. Multiple crew configurations enable flexibility in space planning and enhance comfort and crew welfare during long offshore stays.
In addition to the Chartwell Marine-designed vessels in its fleet, HST Marine’s choice to work with Strategic Marine on more newbuilds soon after signing a significant contract to build four hybrid CTVs shows its confidence in the company.
Acquired by low-carbon maritime energy transportation and infrastructure systems provider Purus Marine in 2022 and now under its offshore wind business Purus Wind, HST Marine has been rapidly expanding its current fleet of vessels. Strategic Marine's build programme has played a crucial role in facilitating HST Marine’s quick ramp-up during dynamic market conditions.
In January, Strategic Marine sealed a deal to build four hybrid CTVs for HST Marine with options for two more vessels.
Mr Tom Nevin, CEO of HST Marine and Business Head of Purus Wind says: "We have been impressed with Strategic Marine when working on our exciting new hybrid CTV project and really hope to conclude a mutually favourable agreement soon. This is just the latest example of how we are working with specialised partners to grow our fleet of low carbon vessels for supporting offshore wind operations which in addition to CTVs, also includes expanding our fleet of hybrid C/SOVs."
Strategic Marine’s CEO, Mr Chan Eng Yew says: “We are excited to be working on yet another project with HST Marine.
"We appreciate the confidence shown in us by this dynamic new player in the offshore wind industry and look forward to meeting their high standards and tight delivery needs with our trademark reliability and reputation for high quality."
GCMD-led consortium successfully completes trialling two supply chains of sustainable biofuels
The Global Centre for Maritime Decarbonisation (GCMD) has successfully completed trialling two supply chains of biofuel blends sourced from different origins. The supply chain trials encompassed tracing biofuels from their production sites outside Singapore, to Singapore where the fuels were blended and bunkered. Lab testing of the fuels continued until they were consumed onboard.
These trials took place from 31 October 2022–15 February 2023 and involved five vessels; approximately 4,700 MT of sustainable biofuel blends were bunkered, the last batch of which will be consumed by end of February.
Two sustainable biofuel blends were used in the trials. One is Used Cooking Oil Methyl Ester (UCOME), a type of Fatty Acid Methyl Ester (FAME), blended with Very Low Sulphur Fuel Oil (VLSFO); the other is UCOME blended with High Sulphur Fuel Oil (HSFO). The UCOME used in both biofuel blends is produced from residue or feedstocks labelled 100% waste and is ISCC certified.
In the first supply chain, Chevron provided B24 VLSFO (24% biofuel blend) to CMA CGM Maupassant and MOL Endowment, the latter a vessel operated by ONE. Additionally, Chevron bunkered B20 HSFO (20% biofuel blend) in its own Singapore Voyager and in Elizabeth I.A. that is owned by Angelicoussis Group and managed by its oil tanker shipping unit, Maran Tankers Shipmanagement. In a separate supply chain, TotalEnergies Marine Fuels provided B24 VLSFO to Lycaste Peace that is owned by NYK and chartered to Astomos Energy Corporation.
First announced at the end of July 2022, the full pilot involves 19 industry partners, with 13 vessels spanning the container, tanker, and bulker segments bunkering in Singapore and Rotterdam. The completed trials represent two of the five supply chains in the full pilot, which aims to establish an assurance framework for the supply chain of sustainable biofuels. This framework, to be further developed by GCMD and its partners, will also provide emissions abatement assurance for future synthetic and bio-derived drop-in fuels.
To ensure transparency and integrity of the supply chains for biofuels and biofuel blends from end-to-end, GCMD says it deployed a range of tracing techniques, including dosing with physical tracers, fingerprinting, and deploying a lock-and-seal methodology, all of which were complemented with laboratory testing and analyses at numerous pre-determined points from fuel production to consumption. In addition, fuel testing experts VPS witnessed the biofuel bunkering operations at all stages from source to supply, and conducted extensive laboratory tests to assess the quality of the biofuel and their blends.
Dr. Prapisala Thepsithar, director of projects at GCMD and project lead on this drop-in fuel assurance pilot, said: “Through these trials, we have gained a better appreciation of the complexities of real-world operations. We have learned the hard lesson that not all tracing techniques are directly applicable for tracing sustainable biofuels as they stand, and we are currently undertaking efforts to refine their deployment.”
Dr. Sanjay Kuttan, CTO of the Global Centre for Maritime Decarbonisation, said: “The lack of assurance on the quality, quantity and emissions abatement of biofuels is a painpoint we identified from interviewing more than 100 industry stakeholders. These trials were curated to address this gap. In developing a framework to provide transparency and bolster the integrity of the biofuels supply chain, we hope to increase user confidence and decrease the barrier for wider adoption.”
AXSMarine invests in Voyage Management System provider Nextvoyage
AXSMarine, a leading provider of SaaS (software as a service) shipping software and data for decision making in the chartering of dry bulk, Ttanker and container ships, has concluded a strategic investment in Voyage Management System (VMS) provider Nextvoyage.
Nextvoyage is a live and full-featured solution developed for the past four years and is in use with several companies in both Drybulk and Tanker markets. It is managed by individuals cumulating 25+ years of Maritime technology experience with a clear vision about the industry pain-points to solve.
AXSMarine’s investment in Nextvoyage is just the first step of collaboration between the two companies who will maintain independent operations but will work closely to deliver best-in-class tools and data to streamline and optimize multiple repetitive workflows.
“AXSMarine’s investment in Nextvoyage materializes a shared vision and values with Nextvoyage founder Mark Pith,” said Jacques Goudchaux, AXSMarine CEO. “This move appeared as a natural one for our organisations, and we are here to turn it into a valuable one for the industry. It is a logical step to help make the client's life much easier.
“While AXSMarine and Nextvoyage will maintain separate operations, our eventual combined offering is aimed at providing a truly integrated alternative to multiple loosely-integrated solutions.”
“We share AXSMarine’s view on how to deliver value to the industry,” said Mark Pith, founder and CEO of Nextvoyage. “The current software and data services provided by AXSMarine are complementary to our software service, which makes AXSMarine a great match for us.
“We are excited about the partnership and the opportunities it will bring to our mutual clients. We are equally excited about the possibilities that collaborating with AXSMarine will bring to the market at large.”
Liquid hydrogen-powered autonomous ship project wins UK government funding
A consortium led by zero-emission vessel provider ACUA Ocean in partnership with zero-emission infrastructure provider Unitrove has won a multi-million-pound UK government grant in a major push to decarbonise the maritime sector.
The “Hydrogen Innovation – Future Infrastructure & Vessel Evaluation and Demonstration (HI-FIVED)” consortium will receive over £3.8m of funding to build and showcase its innovative autonomous vessel and bunkering infrastructure technologies for liquid hydrogen.
The £5.4m project is expected to be delivered in autumn of 2024 and aims to establish a domestic green shipping corridor between Aberdeen and the Orkney and Shetland Islands, with hydrogen-powered autonomous ships being used to transport cargo.
The HI-FIVED consortium involves several key players in the maritime industry including the Port of Aberdeen, the University of Southampton, Zero Emissions Maritime Technology, Composite Manufacturing and Design, Trident Marine Electrical, and NASH Maritime.
Unitrove, creator of the world’s first liquid hydrogen bunkering facility, will look to deploy its mobile fuelling technology at the Port of Aberdeen in support of ACUA Ocean’s bid to build and operate the world’s first maritime autonomous surface ship powered by liquid hydrogen.
The project is part of the Clean Maritime Demonstration Competition Round 3 (CMDC3), which was announced in September 2022, funded by the Department for Transport and delivered in partnership with Innovate UK. As part of the CMDC3, the Department allocated £60m to 19 flagship projects supported by 92 UK organisations to deliver real world demonstration R&D projects in clean maritime solutions. Projects will take place in multiple locations around the UK from as far north as the Shetland Isles and as far south as Cornwall.
The CMDC3 is part of the UK Shipping Office for Reducing Emissions’ (UK SHORE) flagship multi-year CMDC programme. In March 2022, the Department announced the biggest government investment ever in our UK commercial maritime sector, allocating £206m to UK SHORE, a new division within the Department for Transport focused on decarbonising the maritime sector. UK SHORE is delivering a suite of interventions throughout 2022–2025 aimed at accelerating the design, manufacture and operation of UK-made clean maritime technologies and unlocking an industry-led transition to Net Zero.
Michael Tinmouth, COO of ACUA Ocean, said: “Delivering successful technology demonstrations is critical to de-risking future investment in maritime decarbonisation. This CMDC3 project brings together a consortium of innovative partners, subcontractors, and suppliers from across the maritime sector, who are all laser-focused on the need to reduce emissions and accelerate the adoption and commercialisation of new technologies.”
Steven Lua, CEO of Unitrove, said: “We are absolutely thrilled to receive UK government support to enable real-world demonstration of the world’s first liquid hydrogen autonomous vessel and infrastructure. Having built such a strong consortium of eight fantastic partners across the supply-chain, we can have great confidence that we will deliver something truly remarkable.”
Marlene Mitchell, Commercial Manager of Port of Aberdeen, said: “We are delighted to be part of this transformational project, which is wholly in alignment with our green ambitions and that of the wider project team. Zero-emission fuels and vessels are an essential element in achieving decarbonisation within the maritime sector and green shipping corridors will play a key element in meeting the sector’s goals.
“This project offers a unique opportunity for our newly operational South Harbour to act as a practical and at-scale living lab for net zero in the port and maritime sector and will directly address the theme of zero-emission infrastructure and will also consider feasibility to develop shoreside renewable energy generation at our port to supply vessels in alignment with DfT’s 2019 Clean Maritime Plan.”
Madadh MacLaine, CEO of Zero Emissions Maritime Technology, said: “We can do this, and we will with the support of DfT and Innovate UK. The UK government is pushing the boat out on zero-emission shipping, supporting UK innovators who are committed to tackling climate change full-on. The partners in our consortium are making no compromises. Yes, we are facing an existential crisis, but the problem can be solved, and we're here to solve it.”
ACUA Ocean and Unitrove have previously been successful in bidding for money from CMDC2 to explore the development of an innovative Zero-Emission Multi-Fuel Station (ZEMFS) that would power hydrogen and electric ships.
ZeroNorth acquires bunker supplier software provider BTS
Technology company ZeroNorth has today announced that it has acquired BTS PTE Ltd., a software platform for marine fuel suppliers, headquartered in Singapore.
The deal will see ZeroNorth acquire BTS’s flagship suite of services - iBMS (Intelligent Bunker Management System) - which is software specially tailored for the marine fuel supply chain. iBMS helps to increase the efficiency and profitability of marine fuel suppliers, traders and brokers by digitalising their business processes through eliminating unproductive tasks, automating work processes, greater sharing of information and enhancing decision making.
iBMS was one of the first projects supported by the Maritime and Port Authority of Singapore (MPA) under the Maritime Innovation and Technology Fund in the early 2000s. BTS is also the leading company within an industry consortium of seven organisations that has been tasked with developing mobile applications for bunkering documentation and workflows, as awarded by the MPA’s digital bunkering Call for Proposals in January 2022.
ZeroNorth will build a fully cloud-based iBMS solution, which will improve the overall offering to current and future clients. The service will eventually be incorporated into ZeroNorth’s unified platform for optimisations across maritime operations. The ZeroNorth platform functions as a collaboration point, where a seamless flow of data breaks down existing silos between stakeholders, and enables total visibility and alignment around shared goals.
BTS brings more than 15 years of market expertise and marine fuel trading and supply processes to ZeroNorth, as well as a well-established presence in Singapore, the largest global marine bunkering hub. The ambition is to also expand these improved marine fuel services for suppliers to other global ports.
The acquisition supports ZeroNorth’s growth strategy and focus specifically within the marine fuel industry and follows the acquisition of Prosmar Bunkering just 3 months ago. ZeroNorth is dedicated to accelerating the digitalisation and decarbonisation of the marine fuel industry by providing more accurate fuel prices and contextual insights that enable more sustainable strategies for bunker procurement, storage, blending and selling.
Commenting on the announcement, Kenneth Juhls (pictured), Managing Director of ZeroNorth Bunker, said: “The marine fuel industry is taking centre stage in shipping’s green transition. With the increasing pressure to digitalise and optimise your marine fuel supply chain, and the influx of alternative fuel options becoming available, equipping our customers with the ability to make better decisions in regards to procuring, storing and selling fuel is becoming a key priority for ZeroNorth.
“By acquiring BTS, we are taking the next step towards delivering an end-to-end marine fuel service that aligns all stakeholders across the same data through the ZeroNorth platform. Moreover, by building a bridge between stakeholders, we are increasing collaboration across the maritime value chain and accelerating our goal to drive decarbonisation alongside the wider industry.”
Dharma Sreenivas Reddy, Founder and Managing Director of BTS, added: “BTS is proud of the value we deliver to the marine fuel supply chain through our end-to-end solutions. This partnership with ZeroNorth will enable us to modernise our solutions to deliver greater user experience for our customers, and ultimately accelerate the digital transformation of the marine fuel industry.”
BSM partners with ISWAN to provide company-wide Maritime Mental Health Awareness training to crew
The International Seafarers’ Welfare and Assistance Network (ISWAN) will deliver its Maritime Mental Health Awareness (MMHA) training to 3,500 officers at Bernhard Schulte Shipmanagement (BSM) over the next two years.
The partnership will see ISWAN’s experienced network of Associate Trainers deliver six training sessions per month over a two-year period to officers on BSM-managed vessels. BSM is fully committed to ensuring that its officers are equipped with the essential skills and knowledge needed to be effective leaders, but the programme’s learnings will expand beyond officers to benefit all ranks of BSM’s crew (photo courtesy BSM).
This new training contract is the latest way in which BSM is partnering proactively with ISWAN to improve seafarers’ welfare, both within the company as well as in the wider industry. BSM is an active, engaged member of ISWAN and recently participated in phase two of ISWAN’s Social Interaction Matters (SIM) Project, in which a sample group of vessels trialled social engagement initiatives on board to investigate the impact on crew.
ISWAN also operates a 24-hour, independent emotional support helpline for BSM crew who can reach out any time of the day or night and speak to a member of the ISWAN helpline team for confidential and non-judgemental support.
The new training contract will complement the helpline service – which reports quarterly, anonymised, top line trending issues – in enabling BSM to respond to the mental health needs of its crew with preventative measures.
BSM’s Head of Fleet Personnel Development & Compliance Stewart Bankier said: “We are very excited by this new training contract focussed purely on our seafarers’ wellbeing and we are again grateful for ISWAN’s support and expertise in this area.
“This training will have wide reaching benefit for the entire company as well as our clients and we are very happy to continue investing in our people on the frontline.”
ISWAN’s Projects and Relationships Manager Georgia Allen said: “BSM is a shining example of a company that is working hard to prioritise the welfare and wellbeing of its crew. They recognise that there is work to be done to educate their staff about the importance of mental health and they are making all the necessary steps to do so.
“This new training partnership is a valuable addition to existing BSM mental health initiatives, including formal policy development and the provision of ISWAN’s confidential support services for their seafarers. Their consistently active use of their ISWAN membership is a great example of the mutual benefits of becoming an ISWAN member.”
LR and Icebreaker One announce research programme to drive investment in net-zero shipping
Lloyd’s Register (LR) has announced a new research project with Icebreaker One, an independent, non-profit organisation which aims to support the decarbonisation of shipping by influencing investment decisions with data.
The research will aim to help identify and amplify discussions around the key barriers that organisations face for net zero shipping investment and how to overcome these with a ‘net-zero data sharing ecosystem’ that encourages first movers to invest with data-driven rationale.
This project includes interviews and a creative workshop between key stakeholders at both organisations to investigate the potential data sharing has for the maritime energy transition.
By pooling resources, the project will see research with key stakeholders to propose and assess innovations in data sharing, data transparency and ways to best support shipping industry funders to make net zero investments. The project will consider the current available frameworks for assessing decarbonisation technologies and how data contributes to the outcome of these assessments.
Duncan Duffy, Global Head of Technology - Electro Technical Systems, Lloyd’s Register said: “Lloyd’s Register is excited to be involved in this research project with Icebreaker One which will underline the value in data sharing if the maritime industry is to achieve its decarbonisation goals.
“LR is a driving force in enabling and supporting shipping industry funders to make net zero investments and this research, along with its potential results, will encourage new processes and systems as tools in the energy transition journey. The project will equip LR with the knowledge and understanding of the barriers for investing in net zero shipping and enable us to offer effective solutions which address the crucial challenges our industry faces.”
Gavin Starks, CEO and Founder at Icebreaker One, Icebreaker One said: “To get to net zero, we have to finance the decarbonisation of shipping. This means maritime investors need access to trusted, accurate data. Our work with LR will help develop new processes and systems for sharing data that support the race to zero. We’re delighted to be working together to build a web of net-zero data for shipping.”
This research will encourage new processes and systems in the drive for zero emissions and further underlines LR’s commitment to the maritime energy transition, supporting the recent announcement of a Zero Ready Framework to provide the industry shipping with clarity over zero carbon readiness.
The findings from the research project will be presented in a workshop scheduled for early 2023. The workshop will be split into different sessions exploring identified the core challenges for data sharing in the shipping industry. Participants will then co-create and discuss solutions as a group."
Major shipping carriers unite to improve safety of cargo
Some of the world’s biggest maritime cargo carriers are joining forces with the world’s first industrial safety technology accelerator to launch a new innovation initiative to reduce cargo loss at sea.
Evergreen Line, HMM, Maersk, the Offen Group, ONE (Ocean Network Express), Seaspan as well as Lloyd’s Register are joining forces with Safetytech Accelerator to find and advance technology innovations from across maritime and other industrial sectors to reduce the incidence and impact of cargo fires or cargo loss overboard.
The scale and breadth of the challenges facing operators is growing and continues to evolve. These include, through the increasing carriage of lithium-ion batteries either in containers or within electric vehicles on car-carriers and the increasing growth in complexity and size of modern container vessels. Fire and cargo loss at sea not only has an immediate impact on the safety of those onboard but also creates the potential for significant environmental damage.
The Safetytech Accelerator Cargo Fire & Loss Innovation Initiative (CFLII) is a collaborative technology acceleration program that will help tackle the issue through shaping joint requirements, identifying technology solutions, undertaking carefully designed trials and developing best practices and recommendations.
The Initiative has a broad scope encompassing three significant topics of concern. The first relates to onboard cargo control, including whether cargo has been properly, loaded, secured and monitored during transit. The second area covers the ability to detect fire onboard and stop its spread through effective onboard response, particularly on large container ships and car-carriers. The third relates to the challenges created by the increasing scale of vessels.
Global Containerships Segment Director at Lloyd’s Register (LR), and Chair of the Maritime Cargo Fire and Loss Initiative, Nick Gross said “We’re excited to start this initiative, working alongside the Anchor Partners to trial and adopt innovative technology for the prevention of cargo fires onboard, thus helping to make container shipping a safer operation. From LR side, the objective of the initiative resonates with our mandate to improve the safety of ships and crew, as well as protect the marine ecosystem. We believe it is vital to work together to tackle the increasing risk of cargo fires onboard container ships.”
The President of Evergreen Line, Eric Hsieh, said: “We are committed to talent training to help provide a safe, high quality working environment for our seaman. By participating in an enterprise such as the Cargo Fire & Loss Innovation Initiative we aim to work closely with all stakeholders to guard the safety of container shipping transportation.”
The Chief Maritime Officer of HMM, Kim Gyou-bong, said: "I am pleased to join this collaborative initiative with major industrial partners, expecting to develop advanced technology for significantly reducing the risk of safety-related accidents. HMM will give top priority to providing more reliable and differentiated shipping services by securing the safety of our ships and transported cargo."
The Head of Marine Standards & DPA of Maersk, Aslak Ross, said: “The safety of our people is always of highest importance. Reducing the risk of cargo fires is accordingly a key priority for Maersk and the industry at large. The main root cause for cargo fires on container ships is the integrity of dangerous goods throughout the supply chain. Therefore it is a problem that can only be improved through industry wide solutions and for that reason we are a strong believer in sharing of learnings across the industry to improve safety. The Safetytech Accelerator Cargo Fire & Loss Innovation Initiative is a good platform to bring stakeholders together to find new effective solutions to the problem of cargo fires.”
The Managing Director of ONE, Hiroki Tsujii, said: “Given the rapid changes in both the shipping industry as well as the nature of cargo shipped, though ONE’s record of cargo fires are minimal, we are careful to not be complacent and continuously seek ways to improve our capabilities. Hence, we see the value of efforts such as this Cargo Fire & Loss Innovation Initiative (CFLII) which enables collaboration across industry stakeholders and provides the opportunity to share, learn and improve.”
The Director, Marine Standards and Designated Person Ashore at Seaspan, Alfred Gomez said, “Safety is at the very core of our culture at Seaspan. We are pleased to partner with our fellow industry leaders on an innovative initiative aimed at continuous improvement and solving for existing and emerging challenges within our dynamic industry.”
The Managing Director of Safetytech Accelerator, Maurizio Pilu, said; “Safeytech Accelerator’s mission is to help solve some of the most complex safety, risk and resilience challenges in industry through open innovation and collaboration. Eliminating cargo fire and loss is a big challenge in the maritime industry and while accidents are thankfully infrequent, their impact can be extremely large. Together with the Anchor Partners we hope this new collaborative technology acceleration initiative will help industry make significant progress towards that goal.”
Shipping companies who would like to know more about the Initiative, and technology companies with experience or interest in addressing the topics of concern indicated above, are invited to contact Safetytech Accelerator for further information.
IBS Software acquires Accenture Freight and Logistics Software (AFLS) to extend air freight capabilities into shipping
IBS Software has announced the completion of a transaction to acquire Accenture Freight and Logistics Software (AFLS), which provides technology platforms to help airline and ocean transportation companies manage their freight operations and grow through digital transformation and innovation.
The acquisition is a strategic step in recognizing IBS Software’s vision to establish itself as an end-to-end player in the global freight supply chain. AFLS has a strong heritage in ocean freight innovation with a suite of new generation platforms that enable ocean carriers to automate critical business functions and make data-led decisions for commercial operations.
Further, the transaction helps IBS Software to deploy its air freight cargo and logistics management expertise in the ocean transportation sector.
With increasing industry focus on the digitalization of the ocean supply chain to improve efficiencies, expansion into ocean cargo presents a significant growth opportunity, believes IBS Software. The acquisition will also allow the company to tap into a highly capable talent pool of experts in logistics and supply chain management that can drive innovation and deliver value to the industry.
To support this expansion, IBS Software will open a new development centre in Chennai, its fourth in India, for travel, transportation and logistics. The centre will accelerate the company’s mission to transform how travel companies operate in a digital world by delivering next-generation products to accelerate growth, drive efficiency, and create differentiated customer experiences.
“The acquisition of AFLS is a strategically important milestone for our cargo and logistics business to broaden its global footprint, with ocean transportation being a natural adjacent industry in which to expand our expertise,” said V K Mathews, Executive Chairman of IBS Software.
“It is a synergistic opportunity to bring our decades of experience and expertise to the ocean cargo business, as well as strengthen our own capabilities to provide greater value to air cargo customers.”
ABS verifies pioneering vanadium redox battery design
ABS has issued New Technology Qualification (NTQ) for a ground-breaking, non-flammable battery technology for use at sea.
Called Blue G, the state-of-the-art vanadium redox flow battery system from Singapore-based Gennal Engineering PTE LTD is now planned to move into prototype testing later this year.
The Blue G battery is comprised of a water-based electrolyte solution, storage tank, stack cell and regulating pump. The process of charging and discharging energy does not produce excess heat – a unique feature of the system.
“Vanadium redox technology is a potential game changer in the application of batteries at sea. It has the advantages of a long lifespan, greatly improved energy capacity and an improved safety profile as a non-flammable product. This technology is one that has the potential to accelerate the energy transition in the maritime industry, supporting global decarbonization goals,” said Gareth Burton, ABS Vice President, Technology.
Gennal highlights advantages of its system including scalability and a longer lifespan – more than 25 years, which is double that of a typical lithium-ion battery. Gennal also emphasizes the battery design’s recyclable feature showing that the vanadium electrolyte is easily extracted and recycled when the Blue G battery is decommissioned.
“We are glad to be partnering with ABS in achieving this qualification for Blue G. It reflects the confidence ABS has in Gennal in helping the industry to accelerate forward toward marine decarbonization,” said Alex Peck, Director of Gennal Engineering.
Small propeller defects can result in increased underwater radiated noise pollution
The slightest deviation in the machining, polishing, and finishing of ships’ propeller blades could result in underwater radiated noise and cavitation, even if defects are within the maximum tolerance allowed by classification societies and the ISO 484-1 standard.
A Canada Transport-funded study on the impact of manufacturing tolerances on propeller performance – carried out by Memorial University of Newfoundland, DRDC Atlantic Research Centre, and propeller manufacturer Dominis Engineering – found the slightest change in propeller geometry resulted in ‘significant’ cavitation, and much earlier than previously thought.
The behaviour of a section of propeller blade with leading edge defects of 94µm, 250µm and 500µm were studied using Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) at the DRDC-Atlantic Research Centre, and Memorial University of Newfoundland, in a three-year project that concluded last year.
Project lead, Dominis Engineering President Bodo Gospodnetic (pictured), said: “Experimental results show that current widely accepted propeller manufacturing tolerances as stated in the ISO standard need to be thoroughly evaluated and investigated further.”
The current tolerance for a defect to the leading edge of a propeller blade is 500µm (0.5mm).
Ship propellers are manufactured according to ISO 484-1, with the majority of propellers made from castings rough machined on CNC (Computer Numerically Controlled) mills and then finished using robotic and manual grinding. However, robotic and manual grinding of propeller surfaces introduces inaccuracies and deviations from the approved design, which can lead to cavitation, erosion, noise, vibration and loss of propeller efficiency.
“The leading-edge is a very challenging area to manufacture accurately yet it has a strong influence on sheet, streak and vortex cavitation,” said Gospodnetic.
Researchers found that a ship with ‘defective’ propeller must travel at a given percentage slower than a vessel with a “correct” propeller to operate below the cavitation inception speed and remain quiet. For example, a ship with a propeller defect of 0.5mm would have to sail at 45% of the speed of a defect-free propeller to avoid cavitation noise. The smaller the defect, the less speed reduction is required to remain quiet.
“The 0.5mm defect tested is one of the tightest ISO 484-1 propeller manufacturing tolerances yet it has been demonstrated that it affects cavitation inception significantly and detrimentally. The rules need tightening up,” said Gospodnetic.
ISO 484-1:2015 has been a standard for propellers since 1982 and although the standard was reviewed in 2015 and 2022, the allowable tolerance and geometry remains unchanged.
“We know that 80% of underwater radiated noise comes from the propeller, but if ships are legislated to be quiet in sensitive habitats such as the Juan de Fuca Strait then they will have to limit their speed to below the cavitation inception speed,” said Gospodnetic.
While initial CFD studies show how very small defects can influence cavitation inception research partners are looking for funding to continue their investigation in second phase model tests in a cavitation tunnel.
Professor Max Meija to lead World Maritime University
Following a competitive selection process, Professor Max Mejia, a former Director General of the Philippines’ Maritime Industry Authority (MARINA), has been chosen to succeed Dr. Cleopatra Doumbia-Henry as the new President of the World Maritime University (WMU), based in Malmö, Sweden.
Professor Meija was selected by IMO Secretary-General Kitack Lim, Chancellor of the university. He is expected to take over the president's role on 29 June 2023, when Dr. Doumbia-Henry's term expires.
WMU was founded by IMO in 1983 as a world centre of excellence in postgraduate maritime and ocean education, research, and professional training, while building global capacity and effective implementation of the IMO Conventions and regulations and promoting maritime sustainable development. It also promotes the roles of women in the maritime and ocean sectors.
As an entity within the UN system, WMU has been delivering the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (UN SDGs) on education, gender equality, affordable and clean energy, decent work and economic growth, sustainable industrialization and innovation, climate action, the oceans, peace and justice, and working in partnership.
To date, WMU has 5,807 alumni from 170 countries and territories. Professor Maximo Q. Mejia Jr. is currently Director of the PhD Program and Associate Academic Dean at the WMU. He studied Political Science at the United States Naval Academy, Annapolis, Maryland and went on to obtain a Master of Arts in Law & Diplomacy at the Fletcher School at Tufts University, United States.
He is himself a graduate of WMU, having received a Master of Science in Maritime Safety Administration in 1994. Professor Mejia also has a Licentiate of Engineering and Doctor of Philosophy from Lund University in Sweden.
Before joining WMU in 1998, Professor Mejia saw duty on board various naval and coast guard vessels, as well as in shore-based facilities in the Philippines. During a sabbatical from WMU between 2013 and 2016, Professor Mejia served as the Administrator (Director-General) of the Maritime Industry Authority (MARINA) in the Philippines.
ABS appoints maritime sustainability veteran to lead Global Sustainability Team
ABS has appointed Panos Koutsourakis to head its global sustainability team. Koutsourakis is an 18-year industry veteran who has key industry experience with shipping companies, classification, operations, design and new construction, decarbonization technologies and strategic planning.
As Vice President, Global Sustainability, Koutsourakis heads-up a global network of sustainability centres in key maritime locations, including Singapore, Athens, Houston, Copenhagen and Shanghai.
Reporting to Vassilios Kroustallis, ABS Senior Vice President, Global Business Development, Koutsourakis also leads delivery of an innovative portfolio of sustainability services geared to support the industry through the clean energy transition.
“ABS is a pioneer in marine and offshore sustainability and is playing a defining role in shaping the clean energy transition,” said Christopher J. Wiernicki, ABS Chairman, President and CEO.
“ABS operates at the intersection of technology, regulation and safety. That’s our sweet spot. That’s what we’re built for, and it is the sweet spot for sustainability. Our commitment to supporting owners, operators, shipyards, governments and the wider industry in achieving their decarbonisation objectives is unwavering.
“With his extensive experience of the industry and deep insight into the technologies and operational strategies, Panos will continue to build on our leadership position and support the evolution of a more sustainable industry.”
Koutsourakis holds a Master's Degree in Naval Architecture & Marine Engineering from the National Technical University of Athens and has been ABS Director, Global Sustainability since 2020.
First digital marine fuels deal outside Singapore waters completed on SGTraDex
KPI OceanConnect, Pacific International Lines (PIL) Bunker One have announced the successful completion of their first live electronic marine fuel inventory statement for an overseas delivery through the Singapore Trade Data Exchange (SGTraDex).
Singapore-flagged container vessel Kota Rakan, owned by PIL, was bunkered with Very Low Sulphur Fuel Oil (VLSFO) by Bunker One at the port of Lome in Togo, Africa on February 7, 2023. The bunker delivery note (BDN), bunkering sale invoice and fuel delivery were submitted and exchanged on the same day via SGTraDex.
As part of its strategy to enhance transparency in the marine fuels industry, KPI OceanConnect has adopted SGTraDex to streamline invoicing and reduce manual processing time. In addition, the platform also serves as a secured channel for the transfer of various trade documents, including but not limited to bills of lading, certificates of quality, and letters of credit.
Launched in June 2022 as a public-private partnership, SGTraDex is a common data infrastructure that facilitates the sharing of data between supply chain ecosystem partners, streamlining information flows through a common data highway where data can be shared in a trusted, secure, and inclusive manner.
The successful completion of this live electronic transaction demonstrates KPI OceanConnect and PIL’s commitment to implementing innovation and digitalisation in their businesses, while also reinforcing the value of the common data infrastructure.
Antoine Cadoux, CEO at SGTraDex Services, said: “We are excited to have played a pivotal role in facilitating this overseas bunker delivery between KPI OceanConnect, Pacific International Lines and Bunker One. By leveraging on our common data infrastructure, parties involved in the transaction were able to streamline their document exchange processes with increased transparency and enhanced efficiency. This achievement underpins the critical role that SGTraDex can play in driving digitalisation across the maritime industry, within and outside of Singapore.”
Peter Zachariassen, CEO at Bunker One, said: “We are incredibly proud to be a part of this first-ever supply via the SGTradex platform outside Singapore. This opportunity fits perfectly well into our digitalisation strategy and efforts to create more transparency in the supply chain. We are constantly optimizing our processes, staying agile and pursuing our goal of being the preferred business partner for our customers.”
SSY enters global offshore sector with Westshore acquisition
Independent shipbroker Simpson Spence Young (SSY) has announced that it has agreed terms to acquire the Norwegian shipbroker Westshore Shipbrokers AS, which will become part of Simpson Spence Young AS going forward.
The acquisition is part of SSY’s wider strategy to enter into the global offshore sector which will further complement its already wide range of shipbroking services.
Based in Kristiansand, Norway, Westshore has accumulated over 35 years’ experience since launching in 1987 and remain one of the most recognised names in the offshore space. Specialising in chartering, market intelligence and sale and purchase of offshore vessels, Westshore are widely regarded as industry experts both in Norway and around the world.
Stanko Jekov (pictured), SSY Managing Partner commented: “This acquisition marks the first step in realising one of SSY’s key strategic objectives, to become a major global player in offshore. We have ambitious plans for this market and I’m confident we can add real value in this sector."
Jekov continues: “Westshore have built an impressive business and reputation in the offshore industry and I’m excited that together we can continue to provide unrivalled, local expertise in one of the major offshore shipping hubs in Europe."
Goran Rostad, Westshore Managing Director said: “This strategic move will enable Westshore to leverage on SSY’s worldwide network, considerable analytics resource and wide-ranging expertise in the shipping space. I’m delighted that through this acquisition, we will be able to offer new opportunities for both our team and clients and provide even greater levels of service under the umbrella of a major global brokerage."
KVH TracNet recognized with the 2023 SMART4SEA Connectivity Award
Yesterday, at the seventh annual SMART4SEA Awards ceremony, the SAFETY4SEA organization presented its 2023 SMART4SEA Connectivity Award to KVH Industries, Inc. (Nasdaq: KVHI) and its groundbreaking TracNet™ hybrid connectivity terminals and KVH ONE™ global network.
Robert Balog, Chief Technology Officer at KVH, (pictured) states, “We are honored to be recognized in the SMART4SEA award program. The SAFETY4SEA organization and its award programs highlight products and innovations that help shipping companies and their crew perform their jobs safely and efficiently. KVH’s TracNet hybrid product line introduced in July 2022, delivered a new standard for connectivity for all types of vessels worldwide. Our goal is to make every voyage a safer, more connected one for fleets and seafarers around the globe, and we are grateful to SAFETY4SEA for their recognition of our efforts.”
KVH’s innovative TracNet terminals feature integrated satellite, cellular, and Wi-Fi technology with intelligent, automatic switching to keep ships connected to the best available communication option. The product line is the first to offer a fully integrated hybrid maritime solution of this type, utilizing an algorithm that assesses factors such as availability, cost, and quality of data connection to continually deliver the best performance.
The TracNet product line features three terminals: the ultra-compact 37 cm TracNet H30, the compact 60 cm TracNet H60, and the 1-meter TracNet H90. The antennas offer single-cable install, tuned reflectors, multi-axis stabilization, stabilized skew, digital IMUs, and a commercial-grade rotary joint with continuous azimuth for outstanding reception, even with high speeds and rough seas. This ensures seamless connectivity in both calm and challenging conditions, no matter how far out to sea the ship might be.
Vessels with TracNet on board enjoy 276 million sq. km (106+ million sq. miles) of satellite coverage using KVH’s global, layered HTS network, powered by Intelsat. The network offers VSAT speeds as fast as 20/3 Mbps (down/up). Subscribers also enjoy integrated support for 5G/LTE cellular service in 150+ countries as well as the flexibility to add user-supplied SIM cards for local service. Plus, TracNet terminals can connect to shore-based Wi-Fi networks using the integrated Wi-Fi bridge for additional speed and cost-saving benefits. Vessels with TracNet on board experience seamless connectivity at the dock, when underway, and when out to sea.
TracNet terminals reflect KVH’s commitment to cybersecurity with integrated, terminal-level protections plus KVH’s multi-level network cybersecurity program. For fleets seeking an additional layer of protection, KVH offers its Managed Firewall service with optional, enterprise-grade cybersecurity, powered by Fortinet. Cloud Email and Crew Internet are also available to TracNet users as value-added services designed to benefit both crew and fleet administrators.
ENDS
Cyprus and UK sign MoU to increase cooperation in shipping
The Cyprus Shipping Deputy Ministry (SDM) and the UK Department for Transport this week signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to further strengthen shipping relations between the two states.
The agreement includes a range of commitments designed to address current challenges faced by the sector. Drafted to align with the needs and objectives of each country, the MoU aims to stimulate economic development on a mutually advantageous basis, with a specific focus on driving progress in shipping’s response to climate change issues. Joint scientific and technical workshops, conferences, training programmes, seminars, and courses, amongst other initiatives, will be implemented to drive shipping towards its sustainability goals.
Areas of core focus of the agreement additionally include maritime safety and security, and pollution from ships. The two states are also committing to jointly address issues around piracy, fraudulent ship registrations, seafarer welfare and training, and the implementation of transport-related sanctions that impact the sector.
Both parties pledge to promote cooperation in shipping within the framework of international and regional councils such as the International Maritime Organization and the Commonwealth.
“Collaboration has always been a cornerstone of Cyprus’ vision,” said Cyprus Shipping Deputy Minister, Vassilios Demetriades. “This MoU aligns with the extrovert pillar of the SDM’s strategy, which champions a joint approach to driving positive progress in the greater shipping sector while always safeguarding competitiveness.
“Cyprus looks forward to working closely with the UK, exchanging information on best practice when it comes to maritime governance, knowledge, research, and innovation. Furthermore, it is our hope that this partnership will accelerate the digitalization of ship operations, and, importantly, improve the resilience of the sector in terms of cyber security.”
The MoU was signed on Tuesday, 21st February 2023, at the premises of the Shipping Deputy Ministry in Limassol by Mr Demetriades (pictured, right) and the British High Commissioner, Mr. Irfan Siddiq (left), representing Maritime Minister of the United Kingdom, Baroness Charlotte Vere of Norbiton.
Prior to the MoU’s signing, Mr Demetriades had a constructive virtual meeting with Baroness Vere.
Following the signing ceremony, High Commissioner Siddiq said: “This agreement marks a new chapter in relations between Cyprus and the UK, both of which have long and rich seafaring histories. We look forward to partnering with Cypriot authorities to support maritime safety and security. We believe that closer cooperation will benefit our local, regional and international shipping communities.”
DCSA’s member carriers commit to a fully standardised, electronic bill of lading by 2030
The nine ocean carrier members of the Digital Container Shipping Association (DCSA) earlier this month committed to converting 50% of original bills of lading to digital within five years, and to 100% adoption of an electronic bill of lading (eBL) based on DCSA standards by 2030, the association reports.
Switching away from the transfer of physical paper bills of lading could save $6.5 billion in direct costs for stakeholders, enable $30-40 billion in annual global trade growth, transform the customer experience and improve sustainability, says the association.
The nine members of the DSCA are MSC, Maersk, CMA CGM, Hapag-Lloyd, ONE, Evergreen, Yang Ming, HMM and ZIM.
Ocean carriers issue around 45 million bills of lading a year but in 2021, only 1.2% of these were electronic, according to the DCSA. Manual, paper-based processes are time-consuming, expensive and environmentally unsustainable for stakeholders along complex supply chains, it says, and subject to breakdown when cargo in ports cannot be gated out because original bills of lading, or title documents fail to arrive or cannot be manually processed in time.
In contrast, digital processes enable data to flow instantly and securely, reducing delays and waste.
Transforming document exchange through the eBL will accelerate digitalisation to benefit customers, banks, customs/government authorities, providers of ocean shipping services and all maritime supply chain stakeholders.
Thomas Bagge, CEO of DCSA, said: “The digitalisation of international trade holds vast potential for the world economy by reducing friction and, as trade brings prosperity and the eBL will further enable trade, helping bring millions out of poverty. This heralds the start of a new era in container shipping as the industry transitions to scaled automation and fully paperless trade.
“Document digitalisation has the power to transform international trade and requires collaboration from all stakeholders. I applaud the leadership of our members in coming together to achieve this important milestone.”
West’s premium exceeds US$300m for first time after successful renewal
A disciplined renewal has seen a West P&I premium increase of 9% on renewing mutual business, whilst the Club’s selective approach to growth throughout the year and at the renewal resulted in tonnage growth of 6m GT across the year.
In a continuing strong show of support from its Members, 99% of tonnage offered renewal terms renewed with the Club and existing Members committed a further 1.6m GT of tonnage. Several new fleets which matched West’s quality criteria were also entered for the first time.
Adjustments throughout the year together with restorative action at renewal saw the widespread erosion of FD&D premiums in recent years addressed, with an increase of 4.26% achieved on renewing tonnage. Continued and steady growth in the Club’s chartering and fixed books also contributed to a strengthened balance sheet.
These achievements have resulted in West’s total gross premiums across all its business lines exceeding US$300m for the first time in the Club’s history. Entered mutual tonnage stands at 96m GT.
Tom Bowsher (pictured), Group CEO, commented: “We are pleased to have concluded another successful renewal and especially one which has seen West achieve this important milestone in premium terms. We are extremely grateful to our Members for their continued support, which places the Club in a strong financial position going forward.
"Service remains our key focus however and we have continued to strengthen our teams globally to ensure we deliver the high-quality service our Members expect of West. This is further enhanced by the broad range of complementary products and services offered by our partners Nordic, Astaara and Qwest, all of which have likewise seen positive progress throughout the year.”
Inmarsat confirms successful launch of world’s most advanced satellite
Global mobile satellite communications network provider Inmarsat has announced the successful launch of its latest I-6 F2 spacecraft from the Cape Canaveral Space Force Station aboard a flight proven SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket.
The launch saw I-6 F2 lift off from Cape Canaveral, Florida, reaching a top speed of almost 40,000km/h as it left Earth above central Africa. The satellite will now spend several months travelling to its geostationary orbit, 36,000km above the Equator, using its onboard electric propulsion system. It is scheduled to connect its first customers in 2024, following rigorous in-orbit technical testing.
I-6 F2 follows its ‘twin’, I-6 F1, which launched from Japan in late 2021. They are the most sophisticated commercial communications satellites ever and will provide a revolutionary upgrade in Inmarsat’s global coverage services for at least the next 15 years. I-6 F1 is scheduled to connect its first customers later this year.
The new I-6 satellites add further capabilities to Inmarsat’s ORCHESTRA communications network: a unique, global, multi-dimensional, dynamic mesh network that will redefine connectivity at scale with the highest capacity for mobility worldwide. ORCHESTRA enables Inmarsat’s partners and customers to keep pace with their growing data demands and enables them to empower emerging technologies in the future, like autonomous vehicles or flying taxis.
The launch was seen live by Scouts Simon Shemetilo, from London, and Craig Alexander, from Reading, who had a VIP viewing experience to the event. The two were chosen by Astronaut Tim Peake after Scouts from all over the UK entered a competition hosted by Inmarsat and the association. Simon and Craig were judged as submitting the best entries for how satellites can improve life on Earth in the future.
Rajeev Suri, CEO, Inmarsat, said: “I want to extend my profound thanks and appreciation to our dedicated employees and partners who have made this launch a reality. Our I-6 programme has been six years in the making. Last week’s launch marked another milestone as we revolutionise global communications at scale.”
“Of course, this is not the end. Along with the I-6s, we will add five more advanced spacecraft to our fleet by 2025 as part of our fully funded technology roadmap. That will allow us to continue to meet our customers’ needs into the 2030s and beyond, while enabling new technologies for a smarter, more connected Earth.”
Gard reports strong renewal in a market seeking stability
Gard has announced yet another strong P&I renewal for 2023. Over the last 12 months, 17 million GT have been added, bringing the mutual tonnage to a total of 277 million GT, with 99.4% of the existing tonnage staying with the club.
“This has been a good renewal season for Gard, in which we have seen sustainable growth across regions and segments,” said Gard’s CEO, Rolf Thore Roppestad. “Our consistent and fair pricing policy, combined with first class service, has made Gard a great choice for both new and existing Members.”
He continued: “The late announcement of reinsurance rates from the International Group of P&I Clubs meant that this renewal went right to the wire as some owners waited to see the full picture before making their final decisions. We are delighted that Gard continues to be the preferred insurance partner for a growing part of the world fleet.”
The UK P&I Club announces renewal for 2023
The Club continues to enjoy the continued support of its membership with 99% of members renewing. The combined mutual owned and chartered tonnage stands in excess of 260 million gross tons, following an increase in mutual owned tonnage to 152.5 million tonnes.
Many existing Members supported the Club with additional tonnage and commitments for new buildings, and the Club also welcomes several new Members.
Andrew Taylor, Chief Executive of the UK P&I Club, says:
“Strong underwriting discipline, risk selection and a fair and transparent approach to Members remain core to the continued success of the UK P&I Club. In a sector where service is key, the Club continues to offer exceptional claims and loss prevention support to its Members.
“Whilst we remain cautious about the challenges the marine insurance sector faces, we are pleased that our long term financial stability and diversified offering continue to be attractive to our Members, evidenced by this positive renewal for the Club.
“The continuing commitment of the membership and the support of the insurance broking community is greatly appreciated by the UK Club and its Board.”
The Club will be publishing a detailed report including key financial indicators later in 2023 as part of the usual package of year-end financial statements.
ICS publishes updated STCW Guide for the modern working environment
In recent years, shipping has rapidly developed and evolved to meet new realities, from working with low flash point fuels for net zero requirements to operating in polar regions, prompting changes to regulations in the IMO International Convention on Standards of Training, Certification and Watchkeeping for Seafarers (STCW). STCW was designed to regulate the training and certification of seafarers and forms the basis for standards of crew competence that are enforced worldwide. A related challenge now faces shipping companies regarding crewing their ships with appropriately trained personnel.
To support the industry with adapting to these changes in regulations, the International Chamber of Shipping (ICS) has published a fourth edition of its Guidelines on the IMO STCW Convention to help shipping companies stay completely up to date on the latest regulations and guidance required to comply with STCW, including industry best practice and the training requirements of the associated codes, such as the International Code of Safety for Ships using Gases or other Low-flashpoint Fuels (IGF Code) and the International Code for Ships Operating in Polar Waters (Polar Code).
This fourth edition covers the developments to the Convention and Code since the 2010 Manila Amendments, but most importantly, recognises that the working environment to which it applies has evolved.
Chris Oliver, ICS Principal Director – Marine says: “Changes in technology, onboard processes, and a greater understanding of the importance of crew welfare provide a new environment against which STCW must operate. This new publication, our first STCW update in 10 years, recognises those factors and presents the information as it applies to modern working, including supporting a better understanding of work/rest hour compliance with both STCW and MLC.”
ICS’s Guidelines on the IMO STCW Convention, Fourth Edition uses modern infographics, decision-flow diagrams, and color-coded visual aids to help shipping companies identify the differences between the mandatory and guidance parts of the Code. This updated edition will help them understand exactly what seafarer training is needed to ensure compliance on board, as well as know what is considered industry best practice. It covers certification, watchkeeping and record keeping, competence-based approaches to training for particular ship types, and the role of shipping companies and the government in implementation and enforcement of STCW.
Targeted at those involved with the employment and training of seafarers, including masters, superintendents and crewing agencies, the fourth edition is intended as a stepping stone to subsequent editions, beginning in 2026 when the International Maritime Organization (IMO) prepares to adopt a new STCW Convention, which would go into effect in 2028.
Guidelines on the IMO STCW Convention covers an overview of the STCW Convention as well as the new regulatory changes that affect training, including:
• International Code of Safety for Ships using Gases or other Low-flashpoint Fuels (IGF Code).
• International Code for Ships Operating in Polar Waters (Polar Code).
• New requirements for familiarisation training for crew on Ro-Ro Passenger Ships.
• Changes to Chapter V regarding tanker training.
• Updated guidance for crews operating dynamically positioned (DP) vessels.
Guidelines on the IMO STCW Convention, Fourth Edition is priced at £135 and is available in print and digital ebook versions. More information can be found on the ICS Publications website.
New CEO of UK Maritime and Coastguard Agency appointed
Virginia McVea will become the new Chief Executive Officer of the UK’s Maritime and Coastguard Agency (MCA), overseeing the work of the agency. She will begin her new role on Monday 3 April 2023, which follows the previous MCA Chief Executive Officer Brian Johnson’s retirement, taking over from Interim CEO Damien Oliver.
In her previous roles, Virginia McVea was the CEO of the Human Rights Commission and most recently the Chief Electoral Officer of Northern Ireland – the largest single electoral administrative area for the UK.
UK Maritime Minister Baroness Vere said: “I would like to welcome and congratulate Virginia. She joins at a pivotal time for the agency as it faces both challenges and exciting opportunities, and I look forward to working with her to grow the UK flag, decarbonise the maritime sector and encourage greater investment in the UK.
“I am also very grateful to Damien Oliver for his work as interim Chief Executive Officer, and to Brian Johnson for the wealth of expertise he bought to the agency during his tenure.”
MCA Non-Executive Chairman Christopher Rodrigues commented: “I am confident that Virginia has all the skills and qualities we need to build on the excellent work that Brian and the executive team has done over the four years of his tenure.”
Interim MCA Chief Executive Officer Damien Oliver said: “It’s been the privilege of my life to lead this incredible organisation for the past several months. I am looking forward to welcoming Virginia and working together to provide a complete handover.
‘It’s clear to me that this organisation will be in very safe hands under her leadership.”
IMO Secretary-General Statement
On the one-year anniversary of the start of the Russia-Ukraine conflict, IMO Secretary-General Kitack Lim issued a statement saying that the IMO Membership and he personally remain deeply concerned about the ships and most importantly the seafarers that remain stranded in Ukrainian ports in the Black Sea and the Sea of Azov since 24 February 2022.
He stated: “At the start of this military conflict, some 2,000 seafarers were suddenly stranded in the affected area, on board more than 90 vessels. With the best efforts of all stakeholders, this number was reduced significantly, however over 300 seafarers and 60 ships remain stranded.
“In the last 12 months, IMO has made immense efforts and provided extensive support towards UN-wide initiatives to resolve the situation with regard to stranded ships and seafarers.
“As one of the major results, the agreement on the Black Sea Grain Initiative established a maritime corridor that allowed ships to export grain and related foodstuffs from Ukraine, with the aim of addressing global food insecurity. We are committed to continually providing every support needed to ensure the continued success of this vital initiative.
“I am actively pursuing, in close collaboration with the relevant Member States, all avenues to facilitate negotiations with the key stakeholders in the region to allow for the safe departure of the stranded vessels and seafarers. I remain hopeful that with this enduring will for cooperation and communication, we will be able to facilitate the safe departure of the remaining ships and seafarers as soon as possible.”
Shipping industry calls for help to evacuate the 300+ seafarers still trapped in Ukraine ports
On the eve of the one-year anniversary of the start of the Russia-Ukraine conflict, a group of some 35 international shipping associations and bodies wrote an open letter to His Excellency António Guterres, United Nations (UN) Secretary General.
The letter requested the urgent help of the UN in facilitating the release of some 300+ seafarers still effectively trapped in Ukraine ports as a result of the conflict and read as follows:
Your Excellency Secretary-General Guterres,
As we approach one year since the start of the war in Ukraine, the co-signatories of this letter write to you to highlight the 331 seafarers still trapped on vessels in the Black Sea and Sea of Azov. We call on the United Nations, and on your diplomatic influence, to address this matter urgently and evacuate all remaining seafarers and ships.
Our seafarers are the heart of our industry and cannot be forgotten. For 12 months now they have been caught up in a crisis far beyond their control. Simply doing their jobs cannot come at the expense of their lives.
We recognise and celebrate the United Nations, and your leadership, for the Black Sea Grain Initiative that the UN successfully brokered with Türkiye between Ukraine and Russia. This has allowed safe passage of critical grain and fertiliser shipments from Ukraine to populations most in need, and curbed food prices from spiralling out of control. We are committed to supporting the continued success of the Black Sea Grain Initiative, however this cannot come at the expense of innocent seafarers’ lives. Action must be taken now.
Without our seafarers, movement of the vital grain shipments out of Ukrainian ports would not have been possible. While there are challenges to evacuating seafarers and their ships, it must nonetheless be a top priority. Otherwise, we risk the lives of our seafarers, and this is unacceptable.
Yours faithfully
(list of associations and signatories)
Decarbonisation and future fleet strategy lead discussion at ABS Southeast Asia Regional Committee
Preparing the region’s marine and offshore industries to prosper through the clean energy transition was the focus at the ABS Southeast Asia Regional Committee Meeting.
The Chief Executive of the Maritime and Port Authority (MPA) of Singapore joined leaders of Asia’s shipping industry to discuss decarbonisation strategies, cutting edge technologies and the evolving regulatory landscape. Teo Eng Dih (pictured, left) delivered an update on the MPA’s decarbonisation and green transition programs.
ABS Chairman, President and CEO Christopher J. Wiernicki (pictured, right) announced the appointment of Panos Koutsourakis to Vice President, Global Sustainability, who is based in Singapore, to the committee.
“Our industry stands on the cusp of a decade or more of truly disruptive change,” said Wiernicki. “As we look to navigate the clean energy transition, the scale of the challenge before us is daunting. But, as we heard from this influential group of industry leaders, change is also opportunity and by working together we can deliver a cleaner, more sustainable industry.
“As a leader in Singapore’s marine and offshore industries, ABS is supporting our clients and members in the region with advanced solutions in technology, strategy and compliance,”
“There is an urgent need to accelerate the pace of decarbonisation to meet consumer and investor demand and to enhance the IMO 2050 target for greenhouse gas reduction,” said Eng Dih.
”To meet these challenges, strong partnerships among the public sector, the private sector and the research community can help reduce the energy demand of vessels, help ship owners adopt energy-efficiency measures and renewables, and test the efficacy of new maritime fuels such as biofuels, ammonia and hydrogen. MPA will continue to work closely with our partners, including classification societies such as ABS, to address the challenges and seize new opportunities to shape the future of shipping.”
ABS describes itself as the leading Class in Singapore and the South Pacific with a leading orderbook position, and 121 vessels built to ABS Class in the region in 2022. ABS’ Singapore office is home to one of the five global ABS Sustainability Centers, supporting marine and offshore clients with comprehensive decarbonization and sustainability solutions. It is also the home of the ABS Global Simulation Center that provides clients with a virtual representation of an asset that ABS engineers use to analyse, configure and test in a safe and cost-effective way.
The head of the global simulation centre, Dr Gu Hai, ABS Vice President, shared a demonstration with the committee members of the new ABS green corridor simulation tool, which allows stakeholders to accurately evaluate the performance of potential green corridors.
The committee also heard about ABS’ industry leading safety performance, the latest regulatory developments and market trends.
“Maritime is an impressive industry, doing amazing things every day from keeping global trade flowing to exploring new technologies that improve efficiency, HSE and advance the energy transition,” said Capt. Rajalingam Subramaniam, President and Group CEO of MISC Berhad, and Chairman of the ABS Southeast Asia Regional Committee.
“I am pleased to be associated with the committee, comprised of experienced leaders and, together with ABS, putting our skills together to keep operations safe and shape the services of the future.”
The Committee meetings are a forum for ABS members, including owners, operators, charterers, and industry representatives from flag Administrations, owner associations, and the shipbuilding and insurance sectors, to come together with ABS leaders and discuss industry issues and developments. These forums are an important part of an ongoing dialogue with the industry to address technical, operational and regulatory challenges.
De Boer Marine receives Best Partner Award from KNS Korea
Netherlands-based De Boer Marine, a leading provider of maritime connectivity and IT services, is pleased to announce that it has been awarded the Best Partner Award by KNS Korea, a leading provider of satellite communication systems for the maritime industry.
The Best Partner Award recognizes De Boer Marine's exceptional performance in providing high-quality services to its customers. De Boer Marine has demonstrated its expertise in the installation, maintenance, and repair of KNS Korea's satellite communication systems, as well as its commitment to customer satisfaction.
"We are delighted to receive the Best Partner Award from KNS Korea," said Johannes Oost, VP Business Development of De Boer Marine. "This award is a testament to our team's hard work and dedication to providing exceptional services to our customers. We are honored to be recognized by KNS Korea as their trusted best partner."
De Boer Marine has been providing maritime services for over a decade, including installation, maintenance, and repair of navigation and communication systems, as well as maritime IT solutions. The company's team of highly skilled technicians and engineers provides high quality support to customers worldwide.
"We value our partnership with De Boer Marine and appreciate their commitment to quality and customer satisfaction," said Seongkuk Hong, General Manager at KNS Supertrack. "We congratulate De Boer Marine on receiving the Best Partner Award and look forward to continuing our successful partnership in the future."
De Boer Marine provides worldwide maritime services, including installation, maintenance, and repair of navigation and communication systems, as well as maritime IT solutions. The company's team of highly skilled technicians and engineers has over a decade of experience.
“With the commercial maritime sector seeking global and high-quality connectivity as it enters the next stage of digitalisation to implement more AI and other automated technologies, our connectivity and IT solutions are fitting as we will be opening the door to more exciting innovations for our maritime customers. We are moving towards a fantastic future!” concludes Johannes Oost.
WFW advises Höegh LNG on refinancing for LNG floating storage and regasification units
Watson Farley & Williams (“WFW”) advised long-standing client Höegh LNG Ltd (“Höegh LNG”) on the refinancing of the Höegh Esperanza and Höegh Gannet floating storage and regasification units (“FSRUs”) that will service Germany’s new floating liquefied natural gas (“LNG”) terminals in the North Sea ports of Wilhelmshaven, Lower Saxony, and Brunsbüttel, Schleswig-Holstein. The FSRUs are two of five vessels contracted by the German government to help achieve its goal of energy independence from Russia.
WFW London and Germany advised Höegh LNG on a new ten-year US$685m loan to refinance the two FSRUs provided by leading international banks. The loan will be used to repay existing loan facilities and for general corporate use and is split into two tranches, one per vessel. The refinancing of the Höegh Esperanza has now taken place with the refinancing of the Höegh Gannet expected to occur in March April 2023 upon the FSRU completing its commissioning. In addition, a multi-disciplinary team from WFW Germany advised Höegh LNG on regulatory matters pertinent to the entry of the FSRUs into Germany.
The Höegh Esperanza and Höegh Gannet are two of three FSRUs located in Germany as of early 2023. Collectively the three FSRUs will regasify delivered LNG to feed at least 20bn cubic metres of natural gas a year into Germany’s grid, replacing a third of its gas imports from Russia.
The Wilhelmshaven and Brunsbüttel LNG terminals opened ahead of schedule in December 2022 and January 2023 respectively. The infrastructure for the terminals and FSRUs was built in less than a year, a record for Germany, highlighting the critical importance the government attaches to the project.
Höegh LNG is a leading provider of FRSU and floating LNG infrastructure services under long-term contracts. Through the development, ownership and operation of modern FSRUs, Höegh LNG is well placed to act as a global leader in the rapid expansion of LNG energy networks worldwide.
The WFW Germany team that advised Höegh LNG on regulatory matters comprised Hamburg Partners Max Boemke (Regulatory, Public Law & Competition), Nikolaus Krienke (Employment), Malte Jordan (Corporate/M&A and Global Energy Sector Co-Head) and Clemens Hillmer (Assets & Structured Finance Germany Head). They were supported by Managing Associate Sebastian Schröder (Employment), Senior Associate Eva-Maria Christiansen (Regulatory, Public Law & Competition) and Senior Associate Paula Wildemann (Assets & Structured Finance). London Assets & Structured Finance Partner Maren Brandes also advised.
The WFW London team that advised on the FSRUs’ refinancing was led by Partners Kate Silverstein (Assets & Structured Finance), Rob McBride (Capital Markets), Richard Stephens (Tax) and Simon Petch (Assets & Structured Finance), supported by Senior Associate John Man (Assets & Structured Finance), Associates Lottie Lymer (Assets & Structured Finance) and Kristina Buckberry (Derivatives) and Trainee Anna Clarke.
Max commented: “We are delighted to have once again advised long-standing client Höegh LNG on such an important FSRU transaction, particularly one that represents such a critical milestone in Germany’s quest for energy security”.
Kate added: “WFW’s unrivalled expertise in our core sectors of maritime, energy and infrastructure spanning multiple service lines in both London and Germany ensured that all aspects of this deal completed smoothly, on time and successfully for our client and all other stakeholders involved. It is always a pleasure to work with the Höegh LNG team, but to do so across all our sectors and on such an important transaction for all involved was a particular highlight”.
American Club experiences encouraging 2023 P&I renewal
The American Club has reported encouraging year-on-year growth in premium and tonnage over the recent renewal period. Increases in both metrics were experienced across all of the Club’s insurance lines, strengthening its position for 2023 and beyond.
Premium income for the Club’s Class I (mutual P&I) entries was 17% greater than a year earlier, with concomitant tonnage growth of 25% over the period. Its Class II (mutual FD&D) portfolio also grew, while its Class III (charterers’) business is poised to increase by about 10% in 2023 by comparison with the previous twelve months.
Eagle Ocean Marine, the Club’s fixed premium facility, which serves the operators of smaller vessels in local and regional trades, also enjoyed a positive renewal season, strengthening its growing market position.
The Club’s Board had mandated an overall increase in expiring premium of 10% for the 2023 policy year, together with uplifts in certain deductibles. In the result, the cash rise on renewing business was just over 9%, with increases in deductibles over and above those generally prescribed, particularly through the application of higher annual aggregate deductibles in several sectors, providing an additional cash value of about 2% overall.
While the Club renewed about 95% of its expiring tonnage over the renewal itself, its renewing premium for 2023 was almost exactly the same as the expiring volume, implying an increase in the average rate per ton on the renewing portfolio of just under 8% by comparison with that of twelve months earlier.
Speaking in New York earlier today, Tom Hamilton, the Chief Underwriting Officer of SCB, Inc., the Managers of the American Club, said: “The American Club experienced a positive 2023 renewal season. Year-on-year tonnage entered for mutual P&I risks grew by 25% to just over 25 million gross tons with an increase in annualized premium to about $108 million. With similar increases in premium and tonnage entered for FD&D and charterers’ risks, as well as a solid portfolio under its Eagle Ocean Marine banner, the American Club commences the 2023 policy year with a premium income in excess of $135 million, an encouraging result providing a sound platform for further expansion over the months and years ahead.”
Dorothea Ioannou, the Chief Executive Officer of SCB, Inc., also commented on the Club’s recent results: “The growth of the Club’s premium and tonnage over the recent renewal reflects the loyalty and commitment of its Members and their intermediaries throughout the world. None of this is taken for granted, and will continue to be earned by a dedication to excellence in service provision, supported by a strengthening financial outlook for the Club.
“While business conditions remain challenging in many respects, the Club and its Managers are sure that the positive results of this renewal will enable further development of the Club’s market position in the future.”
New KR GEARs enables easier and faster CII rating prediction
Korean Register’s newly upgraded GHG Emission Authentic Reporting system (KR GEARs) enables maritime stakeholders to more easily ensure compliance with greenhouse gas (GHG) regulations in a shorter period.
Launched by Korean Register in 2019, KR GEARs has been supporting shipping companies and operators to efficiently manage their fleet's GHG emissions data and remain compliant with tightening GHG regulations. Updated key features include a new real-time CII monitor, CII simulator, ETS calculator and advanced SEEMP Part III & CII, EU/UK MRV services.
At a seminar jointly organized by KR and Korea Shipowners’ Association and supported by the Ministry of Oceans and Fisheries earlier this month, the newly upgraded features of KR GEARs were presented to maritime stakeholders in Korea.
Previous KR GEARs could calculate the CII rating based on approved DCS data. However, the new CII Monitor uses real-time operational data, allowing the CII rating to be derived and managed in real-time.
A new CII Simulator feature automatically calculates and predicts the ships’ CO2 emissions and CII reduction effects, allowing shipping companies to manage their fleets more flexibly. Scenarios and reports are generated as each condition is selected, such as sailing speed, fuel type, operational measures and installation of energy-saving devices.
Another highlighted new feature of KR GEARs is the Emissions Trading System (ETS) Calculator. Users can predict the ETS costs by simply entering vessel information and ETS unit price. KR plans to expand the service in the near future by integrating carbon spot and futures market information into the system to easily calculate estimated ETS costs in real-time.
KIM Daeheon, Executive Vice President of KR R&D Division said:
"The new upgrade of KR GEARs will enable our customers to respond quickly and flexibly to ensure compliance of their existing vessels. We will continue our efforts to advance our technologies to support the decarbonisation of the maritime industry."
Beginning on 1 January this year, the CII framework regulates the operational carbon intensity of a vessel and how efficiently a ship operates at sea. Vessels are given a rating based on the grams of CO2 emitted per cargo-carrying capacity and nautical mile.
CMA CGM to reshuffle its West Africa services
Seeking to provide a reliable and best quality of service, CMA CGM has announced a reshuffle of its West Africa services.
While its EURAF 3 service will be ended, its WAZZAN service will deploy a full fleet of 1,700 TEU feeders; a dedicated Central Range Feeder will serve Monrovia, San Pedro and Takoradi via Abidjan on a weekly basis; a new weekly North Range Feeder will offer Banjul via Dakar; and the company’s upsized MEDWAX service (pictured) will now include Freetown in its rotation.
These updates will offer a better frequency to/from Monrovia, San Pedro, Takoradi, Banjul and further connections via main loops (EURAF 1, MEDWAX, WAX), as well as benefitting from more allocations from/to Monrovia, San Pedro, Takoradi and Banjul, and providing direct link from/to Sierra Leone and West Med
MEDWAX will still be offered in 35 days with 5 vessels of 2,500 to 3,500 TEU, calling Barcelona – Marseille – Valencia – Algeciras - Tanger – Dakar – Conakry – Freetown - Abidjan – Barcelona.
Central Range Feeder will be operated in 14 days with 2 vessels of 1,300 TEU, calling Abidjan – Monrovia – San Pedro – Takoradi – Abidjan.
North Range Feeder will offer Banjul via Dakar on a weekly basis with 1 vessel.
WAZZAN will still be operated in 35 days with 5 vessels of 1,700 TEU, calling Tanger – Algeciras – Nouakchott – Dakar – Bissau 1/2 – Nouadhibou – Las Palmas – Tanger.
Port of Rotterdam reflects on changed traffic flows in ‘extraordinary year’ 2022
The Port of Rotterdam reports that its although its overall throughput volumes remained virtually unchanged last year at 467.4m tonnes (-0.3%), there were “unprecedented changes” in goods flows in 2022.
Container throughput fell by 5.5% in TEU (-9.6% in tonnes), mainly because container traffic to and from Russia came to a virtual standstill after the invasion of Ukraine. Imports of LNG, mainly from the USA, increased by 63.9% as an alternative to Russian gas. At the same time, coal imports rose by 17.9% as mainly German coal-fired power plants were used more. In line with the sanctions, companies reduced imports of Russian oil, oil products and coal, and succeeded in importing them from elsewhere.
Allard Castelein, CEO of the Port of Rotterdam Authority, said: “2022 was an extraordinary year in many ways. The war and the sanctions led to changes in energy flows around the world and high energy prices, and therefore high inflation and the weakening of the economy.
“The Rotterdam business sector and all service providers were able to respond quickly and effectively. The war has also demonstrated the risks for crucial sectors of strong dependence on one country or a limited number of countries."
"In this respect, the war should work as an incentive to make Dutch and European energy and industry more resilient. That will mean accelerating the production of renewable energy and maintaining strategic industries.
“However, other factors are involved. They include the lack of progress on tackling nitrogen emissions, high energy prices in Europe, and the speed and scale of the efforts of the government of the United States to rack up the sustainability of its industry. They could place the Netherlands and Europe at a disadvantage. We really need to move up a gear in that respect.”
The volume of liquid bulk grew by 4.0% to 212.8 million tonnes. The 5.9% increase in crude oil was attributable to two factors. The first was higher crude oil throughput. Early in the year, this consisted of Russian crude oil, to India in particular. Late in the year, it comprised crude oil on its way to Poland and Germany, replacing oil previously delivered by pipeline from Russia.
The second cause was that the refineries in Rotterdam and the hinterland processed a lot of crude oil. Refineries in Northwest Europe switched to non-Russian oil (particularly from Iraq, Saudi Arabia, Angola, Nigeria and Norway). Because that oil comes from distant locations, the number of VLCCs increased from 27 in 2021 to 156 in 2022. The 10.8% decline in the throughput of oil products was mainly due to the structural fall in the imports and re-exports of fuel oil and the sanctions targeting Russia.
LNG rose by 63.9%. There was very strong demand for LNG as an alternative to the natural gas entering Europe by pipeline from Russia. 30% of the LNG came from the USA in 2022. It is noteworthy that an LNG vessel also arrived from Australia.
There were three reasons for the 15.3% increase in other liquid bulk. First of all, there was a shift from transport by tank container to transport by chemical tanker. In addition, there was more additional stockpiling at buyers due to logistical difficulties. In this way, in a context of disrupted transport chains, they ensured that they had enough supplies of raw materials. Finally, there was a substantial increase in renewable products, particularly bioethanol.
Meanwhile, container throughput fell by 5.5% in TEU and by 9.6% in tonnes. The difference between the two was due to a sharp increase in arrivals of full containers from Asia in the first nine months of the year because of high demand for consumer goods. At the same time, exports declined and so many more empty containers were shipped back.
In the fourth quarter, high inflation and lower consumption, in combination with high stocks, led to a further reduction in container throughput. The consequence of all this was that the rates for container transport fell to pre-COVID levels and ships were increasingly able to sail on time by the end of the year.
BSM develops technical tools required to ensure smooth transition to EU ETS
With inclusion of the maritime sector into the EU Emissions Trading System (ETS) ‘done and dusted’ and to be introduced from 2024, Bernhard Schulte Shipmanagement (BSM) is developing solutions to support its customers to navigate the complexity of the upcoming requirements.
“BSM has been focusing on the EU Emissions Trading System for some time because it will have extensive impact on our and our clients' business”, says Sebastian von Hardenberg, Chief Financial Officer (CFO) of BSM. “We invest in the development of specialist teams and IT tools required to ensure a smooth EU ETS process and certificate administration for owners and their charterers.
“As ship managers we will offer transparent live data driven applications showing a vessel’s consumption in relation to geolocation and time as well as the resulting EU ETS exposure”, explains the CFO.
The ship management company is currently developing a platform that will cover the entire process of EU ETS handling including compliance, data collection and verification, emissions forecasts, registration management, carbon allowance processes and more. The single source dashboard will be included in the existing digital ship management system.
“In the first step we have realised a voyage history view for daily and total EU relevant CO2 emissions and EU allowances required”, specifies Anil Jacob, Head of BSM’s Fleet Performance Centre. “In a second step, we will provide forecasts for the relevant ship’s emissions to be expected in the future.” Reliable forecasts are of crucial importance. Their quality will be decisive how precise the need for necessary carbon allowances is calculated. Finally, tools for accounting and handling of the certificates are considered.
Jacob and his team are developing the technical solution. No easy task, because a lot of details of the EU requirements have not been determined yet. The triangular link between owner, charterer and ship manager also still holds uncertainties.
An opportunity, according to von Hardenberg, lies in the trading of the EU Allowances (EUA) itself. “The question who actually buys the certificates will, in practice, depend on the commercial agreements between the charterer, owner and ship manager involved. Some shipowners and charterers may, for whatever reason, be unwilling to set up trading or EU ETS teams. For those we as BSM will be prepared to take this responsibility over as part of the commercial management task basket we offer,” announces von Hardenberg.
As per the polluter pay principle the responsibility to pay for EUA certificates first lies with the charterer then the shipowner. However, in the eyes of the EU regulator the statutory responsibility for non-compliance lies with the DOC (Document of Compliance) holder. “As a DOC holder, this will expand the exposure and tasks of a ship manager. At the same time, it will strengthen our role as part of the maritime industry - if we are able to offer strong solutions to master these complex requirements. We are working on this with vigour and consistency.”
According to EU ETS regulations, shipowners and operators will need to acquire emission permits for 40% of their applicable emissions in 2024, increasing to 70% in 2025, and 100% in 2026 and every year thereafter. This is applicable to intra-EU voyages and voyages between EU ports and non-EU ports. The costs caused should not be underestimated as calculated by BSM on a reference ship. They depend not only on emitted emissions, but also on the volatile EUA prices.
Alfa Laval launches PureBilge Compact for smaller vessels
Alfa Laval announces the launch of PureBilge Compact, a compact version of the oily water separator PureBilge, to extend a remarkable opportunity to small vessel segments to achieve compliance with bilge water treatment regulations. The PureBilge Compact is designed with a focus on reducing footprint, providing easy installation and lowering the operating cost of the vessel.
PureBilge Compact is a highly compact and modular solution that provides a great opportunity for small-segment vessels to benefit from the proven oily water separation technology without space and installation constraints. Its reduced footprint and hassle-free installation also makes it an ideal retrofit solution for bigger vessels struggling with filters.
“We are delighted to bring PureBilge Compact to the market. This compact, easy-to-install, and cost-effective solution will help both small and large vessels achieve compliance for oily water separation,” says Ayla Korlof, Global Business Manager, HSS Pure & Engine Power, Alfa Laval.
“The future already looks bright for PureBilge Compact as we have received interest from shipyards specializing in smaller vessels who see our solution as the perfect fit for their designs.”
"We're often approached by customers who are struggling to treat their bilge water effectively with their current filters,” says Rebecka Fogelquist Anthony, Service Development Manager, Alfa Laval. “PureBilge is not always an appropriate retrofit choice for them, regardless of vessel size, as they do not require the biggest flow capacity. With PureBilge Compact onboard, our customers can now have access to a retrofit alternative suited to their needs.”
PureBilge Compact is designed for 24/7 unmanned operation, which reduces the operation cost, just like PureBilge. The lack of requirement for chemicals, adsorption filters or membranes eliminates the filter replacement cost and lowers maintenance costs.
Its continuous, single-stage operation requires less holding tank volume and provides more payload capacity. Its capacity flow of 600 l/h as compared to 2500 l/h to 5000 l/h for PureBilge, makes it significantly smaller and easy to install.
With its integrated oil content monitor, PureBilge Compact cleans bilge water effectively by removing oil pollution below the 15 ppm IMO requirements and has the potential to reduce oil content even further, reaching below 5 ppm. This fully automated centrifugal separation system ensures continuous high performance, regardless of variations in feed, oil shocks and rough weather conditions.
“Smaller vessels depend no less on compliance and performance than their larger counterparts,” says Ayla. “By having PureBilge technology in different sizes, we can extend the advantages of IMO- compliant bilge water system to smaller vessel segments comprising mainly of fishing vessels, passenger ships, general cargo and superyachts.”
PureBilge Compact comes with advanced EPC 70 automated control and monitoring system, which seamlessly integrates with existing Alfa Laval systems, providing a single user-friendly interface. The system is already compliant with the anticipated 2024 cybersecurity regulation.
CYMAR and Saiber join forces to promote Dubai cyber insurance
Dubai’s position as a leading insurance innovation hub has taken a step forward with the announcement of a strategic partnership between local Smart Port technology company Saiber Innovation Technologies (Saiber) and Ports & Terminals cyber insurance specialist CYMAR Management Ltd. (CYMAR).
The UAE has been steadily increasing its importance in the global maritime & logistics sector and this new partnership will further address the ever more demanding cyber insurance needs of the sector which is particularly vulnerable to cyber-attack.
CYMAR’s use of cutting-edge technology combined with gold standard human risk management practices to mitigate risk, offers a disruptive and challenging approach to providing cyber insurance in a way that isn’t currently available in the market.
Pradeep Luthria, Managing Director of Saiber commented: “We are delighted to be working closely with CYMAR. Their innovative and disruptive approach to cyber insurance is a game changer for the Ports & Terminals industry and will play a vital role in securing the supply chain. We are excited to be part of such an important move to provide much needed cover to critical infrastructure.”
Jonathan Jones, CYMAR’s CEO and insurance industry veteran added: “Working with Saiber is a natural fit for us. Our aim is to bring together Smart Ports and Smart Shipping with Smart InsureTech. Saiber’s ground-breaking digital twin technology complements that of our existing technology and coupled with our cyber crisis expert OCTO, brings a new dimension to port cyber security which is essential to the creation of a suitable insurance risk mitigation strategy.
“This alliance builds on our existing technical capability to deliver full data integrity to all Ports & Terminals as we will utilise proven blockchain technology designed to provide immutability of digital assets and real-time detection and mediation.”
OCTO’s Helen Shannon comments: “We will be able to deliver to Ports & Terminal operators our intelligence expertise in dealing with any type of crisis or emergency situation upon the occurrence of a cyber event.”
Exploris selects Cloud Fleet Manager to enhance ship management
Lloyd’s Register (LR) has been selected by newly formed expedition cruise company Exploris, to provide an integrated application for its fleet operations with the Cloud Fleet Manager (CFM) platform developed by Hanseaticsoft, now part of LR Digital Solutions.
Exploris will use CFM’s comprehensive portfolio to streamline its ship management processes and increase overall efficiency. With more than 40 different applications, CFM offers a single cloud-based source of real-time information for employees, crews at sea, and external partners. The modules are adapted to each department’s individual needs, ensuring that workflows are streamlined, and relevant information is always available.
Cloud Fleet Manager will provide Exploris with a centralised platform to manage all aspects of its fleet operations, from maintenance and compliance to voyage planning and purchasing. The software will ensure the highest levels of efficiency, reducing downtime and increasing operational reliability.
With a focus on offering small-scale, intimate expeditions to remote areas, Exploris prides itself on providing its passengers with a unique and unforgettable travel experience. The company’s team of experienced and certified captains and officers, together with expert expedition leaders, ensures the safety and comfort of passengers while exploring the world’s farthest reaches.
David Blouin (pictured), Executive Vice-President Marine Operations at Exploris said: “We are thrilled to be working with LR and leveraging the power of Cloud Fleet Manager. As we set out to change the expedition cruise industry, it is essential that we have the right technology in place to support our operations. We believe that Cloud Fleet Manager is the perfect fit for our company, and we look forward to working together to create a new standard for sustainable and responsible cruising.”
Cloud Fleet Manager has been designed with the needs of the maritime industry in mind and provides a comprehensive solution for fleet management. The software’s user-friendly interface, real-time data access, and advanced analytics capabilities make it the ideal choice for companies like Exploris looking to streamline their operations and improve their overall performance.
Martin Taylor, CEO of LR Digital Solutions said: “Exploris' commitment to sustainability and responsibility aligns perfectly with our mission at LR, and we are excited to support their vision through our software. Cloud Fleet Manager allows companies like Exploris to focus on what they do best, providing unforgettable experiences for their passengers while our system handles the rest.”
Quark Expeditions enjoys high quality internet access on Polar cruise itineraries using Marlink hybrid solutions
Smart digital solutions company Marlink has successfully provided high throughput hybrid network solutions for Quark Expeditions’ MV Ultramarine since the start of the 2021 Arctic season.
After the first full year of successful operations Quark Expeditions found that guests and staff on Ultramarine have enjoyed continuous high-quality connectivity despite the high latitudes and harsh operational environment.
Quark Expeditions has operated a fleet of chartered vessels and icebreakers taking guests on unforgettable experiences for more than thirty years. Ultramarine is Quark’s first fully owned newbuild and is the newest ship in their fleet, designed to go beyond the familiar in polar exploration and answer passenger requests to discover new places.
Ultramarine began its first full season of operations in October 2021. The 199-guest vessel is equipped with two twin-engine helicopters, 20 quick-launching Zodiacs, spacious suites, wellness amenities and numerous outdoor wildlife viewing spaces.
Marlink has provided a seamless hybrid bespoke solution, including dual C-/Ku- Band and Ka-band VSAT with dual L-band back-up over LEO and GEO constellations and 4G/LTE connectivity with global roaming, to maximize passengers experience onboard. Marlink will further extend connectivity options on Ultramarine in spring 2023 when the vessel will trial the new Starlink LEO service, bringing faster throughput, lower latency services in a combination with guaranteed VSAT bandwidth to meet crew and passenger needs and extend access to more cloud-based applications.
Traffic is managed using software-defined routing (SD-WAN) which automatically selects the most efficient connection channel for data transmission, streamlining and securing the process for passengers, crew and business communications alike. To enable passengers and crew to share their experiences with friends and family, Marlink has provided an Internet Café solution from a third party to manage Internet access, billing and security.
“Quark Expeditions is focused on creating unforgettable experiences for our guests, using small vessels to visit places that bigger ships cannot go and so making our itineraries unique,” says David Blancard, Head of Information Technology, Quark Expeditions. “For this, we rely on partners like Marlink who can provide reliable and innovative solutions that keep our customers connected and enable our ships to operate safely and sustainably in remote and delicate environments.”
“Marlink is the leader in leveraging our technology and know-how to enable seamless, reliable connectivity in remote regions. Our experience in managing and providing hybrid network solutions in the expedition cruise sector was a key factor for Quark Expeditions,”says Tore Morten Olsen, President Maritime, Marlink. “Applying cutting edge technologies like SD-WAN and in future helping them adopt next generation LEO services, means we can support providing the best possible experience to their customers.”
ClassNK adds standards to ensure safe and efficient operation of containerships
ClassNK has released its Guidelines for Container Stowage and Securing Arrangements (Edition 3.0) and Guidelines for Parametric Roll Countermeasures to achieve and safer and more efficient marine transportation of containers.
Responding to rapid increases in the size of container ships and advances in lashing technology, the Guidelines for Container Stowage and Securing Arrangements (Edition 3.0), which have provided evaluation methods for loading and lashing containers, incorporate the latest trends and ClassNK’s R&D outcomes to ensure both safety and economy.
The guidelines reflect the load analysis combined with big data from AIS and oceanographic data conducted during the comprehensive revision of ClassNK ship structural rules (Part C of its Rules and Guidance for the Survey and Construction of Steel Ships), and enable optimal stowage operations that take into account not only the route but also seasonal effects.
The Guidelines for Parametric Roll Countermeasures support the consideration of measures against parametric roll, which has been referred to as a factor in the recent cargo collapses on large containerships. In addition to evaluation based on Interim Guideline on the Second Generation Intact Stability Criteria (MSC.1/Circ.1627), the guidelines outline the requirements for granting notation of ships with equipment and operational parametric roll measures.
They also cover a wide range of aspects, both in theory and in practice, including the mechanism of parametric roll, its features and precautions, an overview of parametric roll response calculation, and devices and methods for countermeasures such as a practical and reasonable way for creating a polar chart that illustrates the danger of parametric roll. The methods specified in these guidelines are applicable not only to container ships but also to car carriers.
The guidelines are available to download via ClassNK’s website www.classnk.com for those who have registered for the ClassNK ‘My Page’.
UK project secures funding to use Uncrewed Surface Vessels for seagrass mapping
HydroSurv has won funding from Innovate UK to continue working with the University of Plymouth to enhance its technique of using Uncrewed Surface Vessels (USVs) to map seagrass coverage on the seabed.
Building on previous collaborations with the University and Valeport, the project aims to generate a comprehensive picture of seagrass meadows as well as to characterise the environment in which they are growing, enabling ecosystem health to be determined from the same survey campaign.
The project will see HydroSurv’s low impact, fully electric USV data acquisition platform developed further to deliver comprehensive, seagrass monitoring using an Acoustic Ground Discrimination System (AGDS) coupled with video and environmental data collection from new hull-mounted and underwater sensor arrays. These include two specialist cameras and a laser range finder, which is deployed to a constant altitude using an intelligently controlled cast winch on the HydroSurv REAV-28 USV.
A macro lens camera on the underwater skid will be lowered into sediment for close-up, hi- resolution photographs. Using an algorithm to ascertain grain size from the images, the type of ground in which the seagrass is growing can be determined. This enables stakeholders to monitor critical environmental parameters of seagrass habitats and to quantify meadow biomass and carbon sequestration potential, in turn informing better understanding of these habitats and their restoration.
The vessel’s sensor payload will also measure sound velocity, turbidity and chlorophyll levels, while machine learning algorithms, developed by the University, will objectively classify the seagrass beds using acoustic envelopes.
Processed data will be provided to coastal practitioners and scientists using an enhanced cloud-based data hosting and visualisation application developed by HydroSurv. This will enable them to create an enhanced picture of seagrass coverage, density and canopy height alongside improved environmental measurements and ground truthing video files, making actionable seagrass data wholly accessible.
HydroSurv COO, Ian Godfrey, commented: “The use of a non-invasive USV system to work in these sensitive environments reduces the risk of damage to the very habitat we are trying to protect. Beyond that, improved accuracy, low carbon emissions and reduced cost make uncrewed platforms an attractive proposition for survey and characterisation of seagrass meadows, even in waters that are difficult to access.
“HydroSurv is focused on providing a turnkey solution covering robotics and data processing in a single package that is readily accessible to industry stakeholders.”
ABS issues world’s first CyberSafety certification for equipment to Nabtesco main engine control system
After prototype testing in January 2023, ABS has issued the world's first ABS CyberSafety Product Design Assessment (PDA) certification for the main engine and main propulsion remote control systems (M-800 series) from Nabtesco Corporation.
“In vessel operations today, more and more components are connected and reliant on digitally enabled systems that introduce new risks and vulnerabilities into the maritime supply chain,” said Patrick Ryan, ABS Senior Vice President and Chief Technology Officer. “By addressing the risks early at the individual component and equipment levels, equipment manufacturers can help mitigate potential negative impacts.
“This PDA for Nabtesco provides a comprehensive certification solution that demonstrates their commitment to cybersecurity.”
ABS provided review and approval for the various components of the M-800 series including the micro-computer unit, which is a control system for diesel and turbine engines as well as the relevant components in the remote-control system.
“Cybersecurity risks continue to evolve which is why it is important that our equipment not only meets but exceeds the latest industry standards and requirements,” said Yukihiro Mizutani, President, Nabtesco Marine Control Systems Company.
“ABS certification of our remote-control system enables us to meet the growing need for cyber secure equipment and prepares us and our customers for upcoming IACS Unified Requirements on cybersecurity, UR E26 and E27.”
In addition to the PDA, Nabtesco also obtained a service provider approval from ABS for CyberSafety in January 2021.
Wallenius Wilhelmsen becomes Leading Partner at Nor-Shipping 2023
Environmental pioneer Wallenius Wilhelmsen, one of the world’s leading companies in car transportation and Ro-Ro cargo, has confirmed that it is taking the role of ‘Leading Partner’ at Nor-Shipping 2023, taking place in Oslo and Lillestrøm, 6-9 June.
This is the first time the firm, a stalwart of the Norwegian maritime industry, has signed up as a key sponsor and CEO Lasse Kristoffersen (pictured) says much of that has to do with its vision of achieving ambitious goals through collaboration.
“If you consider how we work with customers, how we align with technology suppliers and how we aim to help drive down environmental impact, there’s a clear ‘red thread’. Namely, we do it together.
“With Nor-Shipping’s focus on #PartnerShip this year it seemed like the ideal opportunity to increase our commitment and communicate our vision industry-wide. Nor-Shipping, and events like it, provide a physical environment for global stakeholders to meet, exchange ideas, build understanding and form the partnerships that we need to help shipping evolve.”
One of Wallenius Wilhelmsen’s ambitions is to establish an end-to-end logistics chain with zero emissions by 2030. Likely to feature in this is its 7,000-car capacity, 220m long, wind-powered vessel Orcelle Wind featuring 40m high sail technology from Oceanbird, planned to enter operation from late 2026/7.
SKS partners with Signal to expand its LR2 Pool
The Norwegian LR2 owner and operator SKS is opening up its pool to attract third-party LR2 tankers by leveraging Signal’s technological pool infrastructure and data-driven chartering tools. The new setup, named ‘SKS LR2 Pool - powered by Signal’, has been launched with SKS’ five LR2 spot vessels, co-owned with funds managed by Hayfin Capital, with the goal to attract additional tonnage.
SKS will be the commercial manager, carrying out chartering, operations and post-fixture. Signal will provide the pool infrastructure, the technological tools and capabilities, acknowledging the increasing importance of technology in the shipping industry. The partnership will enable the SKS LR2 Pool to further improve its leading performance while expanding the LR2 fleet. Additionally, it will demonstrate the same level of flexibility, fairness and technology edge already offered by the Signal Aframax and MR Pools.
Geir Mjelde, CEO of Kristian Gerhard Jebsen Skipsrederi AS, owner of the SKS LR2 Pool, commented: “SKS has been a leading player in the LR2 tanker segment for many years. Signal Maritime Services has developed state of the art software for pool management. Together, we will bring a unique offering to owners and operators of LR2 tankers with unrivalled performance and transparency.”
Panos Dimitracopoulos, CEO of Signal Maritime Services, added: “We are delighted to support SKS in their journey to become a leading pool in the LR2 tanker segment. We very much look forward to seeing our technological capital, developed and tested in our pools over the years, being exported beyond Signal and supporting established, well-respected commercial operators.”
Silverstream Technologies named 4th fastest-growing company in Europe in FT ranking
Clean maritime technology provider Silverstream Technologies, a specialist in air lubrication, has achieved a landmark entry into the Financial Times’ FT 1000: Europe’s Fastest Growing Companies 2023 listing, the company has announced.
The seventh edition of the ranking, which this year recognises the top 1,000 companies in Europe based on revenue growth between 2018 and 2021, places Silverstream as the fourth fastest-growing company in Europe and the third fastest-growing company in the UK. Over this period, Silverstream grew its revenue at a compound annual rate of 426%.
Noah Silberschmidt (pictured), Founder & CEO, Silverstream Technologies, said: “This is a truly incredible achievement for Silverstream, and is something we never thought possible when we set out on this journey over a decade ago. To be recognised as one of the fastest-growing businesses in Europe – not just in shipping, but across all sectors – is very special indeed.
“We have had to work so hard to demonstrate the validity of our technology and to build trust within the industry. Thanks to some genuine thought leaders, some of whom placed their faith in us many years ago, we have been on a fantastic trajectory building our customer base and delivering innovation in our products.
“In 2023, the outlook for Silverstream and for the shipping industry is dramatically different to that of a few years ago, and we are already seeing even more interest in proven efficiency solutions like ours as the imperative for serious action on climate change is clear.
“We will continue steadfast in our mission to support the decarbonisation of the shipping sector, and to realise our ambition of air lubrication technology being a standard application on all newbuild vessels in the global fleet. I would like to thank wholeheartedly all of our colleagues, partners, customers and friends who made this amazing achievement possible.”
The seventh FT 1000 listing covers the period when the Covid-19 pandemic was at its height, which further highlights the considerable momentum and resilience of Silverstream’s business during a period of unprecedented global market volatility and supply chain disruption. Moreover, since 2021, when the survey ended, the company has continued its exponential growth, more than doubling its sales orders and revenue in 2022 compared with the year prior.
Silverstream also opened a new office in Shanghai in 2022 to address the rapidly growing demand for its technology, requiring a local presence in China to work closely with its expanding network of partner shipbuilders across Southeast Asia.
Silverstream continues to build resilience into all areas of its business, strengthening its Board of Directors and C-Suite with a number of senior industry hires. Most recently, this saw the introduction of a Chief Data Officer (CDO) to lead the company’s data strategy as it applies advanced data analytics, AI and machine learning practices to drive further value for its customers.
Silverstream’s orderbook has grown from three installations in 2018 to over 130 orders today, and the company is targeting 500 orders by 2025. Silverstream’s customers currently include MSC, Maersk, Grimaldi, Shell, Vale, Carnival and ADNOC L&S, amongst other major industry names.
Panama and the Philippines strengthen relations at Philippines Maritime Expo 2023
The Republic of Panama, through the Panama Maritime Authority (AMP), participated in the ‘Philippines Maritime Expo 2023: Flag State and Shipbuilders Convention’, which brought together the main shipping registries in the world, as well as prominent exhibitors from the world maritime industry, shipyards, shipowners, technology and maritime safety.
Purpose of the event was the acquiring and expanding of knowledge about maritime regulations for the registration of vessels, the maritime infrastructures of the Flag State and the regulations established by the IMO, says the AMP. It also granted the opportunity for owners and operators in the various sectors of the maritime industry to meet with service providers, facilitating a venue to showcase products and services for both local and international participants and stakeholders.
The Administrator of the AMP, Noriel Arauz highlighted the maritime trade relationship between Panama and the Philippines, which dates back more than 450 years, taking into consideration that in 1571 the route of the "Manila Galleon" was the first maritime route trade in history, linking Manila with American ports, including Panama.
He also pointed out that “today more than ever it is necessary to recognize the contribution of the Philippines to maritime trade and especially to the maritime progress of Panama and our Registry of Ships. Please receive my sincere thanks to the entire Philippine country, we are sister nations and allies, strengthened every day by the power of our historic maritime relationship."
For his part, the Director of the General Directorate of Seafarers (DGGM) of the AMP, Capt. Juan Maltez, explained the different services provided by the institution, which recently celebrated its 25th anniversary., includingthe responsible administration of the Panamanian -flagged merchant fleet and the training of seafarers who sail aboard its ships.
The AMP together with the Embassy of Panama in the Philippines presented a stand that attracted the attention of businessmen, students (cadets), which had Panamanian personnel from the Manila Regional Documentation Office (ORD) as well as Filipino collaborators, where they offered the necessary information to obtain Panamanian licenses, certifications for ships, accreditations of Maritime Training Centers (CFM) and Medical Centers Authorized by Panama.
The services provided by the General Directorate of Merchant Marine (DGGM) were also exposed by the SEGUMAR division in ORD Manila. Information was also offered on the requirements to have a vessel registered in a flag state and how to comply with all the maritime rules and provisions in accordance with international maritime regulations.
AMP says participation in this fair was a valuable opportunity to increase the visibility of the services its provides, in addition to reinforcing its presence in the Philippines, a world reference country in the training of seamen and seafarers who have great significance for the Panamanian fleet, the biggest in the world.
West P&I launches Hull and War Risks cover to enhance product range
West P&I has launched two new competitive marine insurance products to enhance its product range. Called West Hull and West War, the new offerings are designed to enhance the Club’s services to Members, broaden its appeal to other shipowners and grow its footprint in the global marine insurance markets.
West Hull and West War complement West’s core products – P&I, Defence, Charterers, Fixed Premium and Extended Covers – as well as the Club’s partner products for Delay (with Nordic Marine Insurance), Cyber Risks (with Astaara) and Legal and Claims consultancy (with Qwest).
West Hull covers loss of, or damage to a vessel’s hull and machinery, and can include Increased Value and Loss of Hire. All recognised hull conditions can be accepted, including the Nordic Marine Insurance Plan and Institute Time Clauses Hulls.
West Hull will utilise the resource and expertise of the Club’s partner Nordic Marine Insurance in Sweden. Jan Limnell, Nordic’s Deputy Managing Director & Underwriting Director, noted that: “Nordic is delighted to expand its partnership with West and we look forward to using our experience in this area to help the Club deliver this exciting new product.”
In addition to Hull, West is also today launching its complementary war product West War, covering damage, loss and liabilities resulting from war risks. All recognised war conditions can be accepted, including Institute War and Strikes Clauses. Fully operated by the Club’s underwriting team, West War will write leading or following lines with predetermined breach additional premiums for high-risk areas.
Mark Mathews (pictured), West’s Head of Product Development, said: “The new products will enable us to support both our current Members and other shipowners beyond our core P&I and Defence cover. We are confident the new products will enable us to further enhance the bespoke services we are able to deliver to the market and encourage shipowners to consider moving hull, LoH and war cover they already buy to West.”
Tom Bowsher, West’s Group CEO, added: “As a leading P&I Club, we believe careful diversification, focused on quality underwriting and backed by first-class service, will only help to strengthen our position in today’s increasingly challenging market.”
Both products are fully supported by a panel of renowned A-rated reinsurers.
ICS and Suez Canal Authority commit to continue open communication
The International Chamber of Shipping (ICS) and Egypt’s Suez Canal Authority (SCA) have re-signed an agreement covering key issues impacting international shipowners and operations of the Suez Canal.
The agreement was initially signed in May 2022 to increase information sharing and negotiations on the movement of global trade through the Canal. It represented a formalisation of dialogue on matters of mutual interest between ICS and SCA.
The agreement has been signed for a further year long period, which is testament to the successful communication between ICS and SCA. It signifies an ongoing commitment to collaborating on matters that impact all stakeholders in the shipping industry, including long-term strategies for toll pricing, environmental protection, and decarbonisation.
Egypt is increasingly positioning itself as a key figure in the shipping sector’s decarbonisation, with plans to create zero emission fuels for export and use domestically. Egypt also hosted COP27 which was significant for ICS too, serving as the platform for the launch of the Tyndall Centre report ‘Shipping’s role in the global energy transition’ and more governments coming on board with the Clean Energy Marine Hubs initiative.
ICS Secretary General Guy Platten said: “This extension of the agreement between ICS and SCA shows the strength of collaboration between our organisations. The shipping industry as a whole increasingly recognises the importance of working together to tackle collective challenges and achieve mutual goals.
“The Suez Canal is a vitally important trade route for the shipping industry so it is a real positive development that we have a long-term commitment to working together to maintain open dialogue on matters impacting both shipowners and the authority.”
Changing dynamics lie behind volatile tanker market outlook
The first two months of 2023 have seen tanker market fortunes change rapidly, illustrating the volatility and upside that continues to persist as global trade patterns are reshaped. Sharp increases in spot earnings have been a feature of the first quarter so far, emphasising the volatility and upside that continues to persist as global trade patterns are reshaped.
In its latest monthly HORIZON report*, MSI expects Asia, and in particular China, to dominate oil demand growth in 2023, but overall cargo volumes look set to be relatively restricted despite distance-driven gains.
China is seeing a sharp increase in transportation fuel demand associated with its opening up, and jet/kerosene demand is likely to surge as flying activity increases. Analysis of crude flows show that it is not just the Russia/Europe dynamic that is changing. China’s intake of Middle Eastern crude has been falling despite its opening up from COVID restrictions and the country is taking in more Urals crude from Russia but also American-sourced barrels.
The recovery in tanker spot earnings is in part due to Europe’s ban on seaborne Russian products coming into effect, with trade flows in January suggesting Europe will rely further on the Middle East, Americas and Asia to source its incremental products needs. Russian cargoes are likely to increasingly head to Latin America and the Middle East, increasing product tanker tonne-miles.
“From the current perspective, the tanker market is good place to be and although we remain positive, some cooling off in both earnings and asset prices remains a feature of our forecast across 2023,” says MSI Director Tim Smith. “Lower deliveries in the larger crude sectors may also help support market dynamics in 2023. Scrapping activity remains relatively elusive, given both high demand for older tonnage and strong freight markets.”
Crystal appoints GMT for guest and corporate travel needs
Global Marine Travel LLC (GMT) has entered into an agreement to provide outsourced travel management services to Crystal for their passenger Air/Sea program beginning this March.
Crystal, known for providing exceptional cruises with world-class dining and entertainment, exquisite suites and first-class service, is in the process of preparing for the relaunch later this summer of the 740 passenger ship Crystal Serenity, and the 606 passenger ship Crystal Symphony.
GMT, a member of the V.Group Marine Services Division, and recently appointed #29 on the Travel Weekly Power List 2022, is one of the few travel agencies with full access to specially negotiated net-fare airline contracts for passengers and crew, as well as a unique range of travel technology options. Crystal will also use GMT’s itinerary planning services along with air charter options as they plan their future cruise itineraries.
All parties are currently engaged in a technology development project to link Crystal’s reservation system to GMT’s comprehensive travel fulfilment platform. This will allow Crystal to package affordable airline travel with their cruise itineraries for their guests in a seamless transaction through multiple distribution channels.
Tim Davey, founder and managing director of GMT said, “GMT has provided outsourced air/sea services to cruise lines since our inception in 2001. The ability for boutique cruise lines to market airfare with their cruises from day one with little to no start-up costs or additional technology expense is a huge benefit. We’re excited to be engaged by Crystal as they continue to forge their path as a newly independent cruise line.”
“Adding this feature to allow for a smoother booking process for our guests, is something we are thrilled to have,” said Jack Anderson, President of Crystal. “We appreciate the support of the GMT team and look forward to a seamless transition and long-term partnership.”
VIKAND strengthens its clinical leadership team to support growing client base
Global Healthcare specialist VIKAND, has added two additional Medical Directors to strengthen its clinical leadership team to support its growing client base.
Doctor Tanya Engelbrecht has been promoted from her fleet doctor role at VIKAND to become Medical Director for Viking Ocean, one of VIKAND’s key clients. She has over 20 years’ experience as medical doctor in community, public and private health institutes where she has consistently enhanced staff performance and productivity. She also has a proven track record of fostering optimum operations and process improvements by restructuring and implementing healthcare policies.
Dr. Engelbrecht joined VIKAND in 2018 as a cruise ship doctor and was promoted to fleet doctor in 2022 where she was responsible for providing quality assurance for the onboard medical teams.
Her responsibilities as Medical Director will be to support the clinical healthcare services provided by VIKAND’s onboard medical teams to Viking’s crews and passengers.
Dr. Thomas Gionis brings a wealth of experience to his role as Medical Director for VIKAND’s US flagged client vessels and some of the US based operators.
He is an MD-JD-MPH (Physician – Attorney - Public Health Specialist). He is a fully trained cardiovascular surgeon who completed his emergency medicine research fellowship at Harvard-MGH, where he lectured for over a decade in advanced trauma life support. He is also Board Certified by the American Board of Quality Assurance & Utilization Review Physicians and is a Fellow of the American Institute of Healthcare Quality and the American College of Forensic Examiners. He has been practicing medicine for 47 years; 37 of which were in the Emergency Department, and prior to joining VIKAND, he worked as senior physician for Viking Cruise Lines.
His key responsibilities will be providing clinical support to VIKAND’s US flagged client vessels, US based clients and operational support to the shipboard medical operations teams. He will also be reviewing and implementing national medical requirements to ensure compliance, supporting client engagement from a clinical aspect, and continued quality assurance for the medical services provided by VIKAND.
Dr. Engelbrecht and Dr. Gionis join VIKAND’s growing team of Medical Directors under the leadership of Chief Medical Officer Dr. Bill Heymann.
“Having Tom and Tanya join our leadership team of medical practitioners will enhance the care and clinical support we can offer our clients.,” said Dr. Heymann. “Their proven management credentials as well as their clinical experience working in the maritime industry will be invaluable.”
“I would like to welcome Tom to the team and congratulate Tanya on her promotion,” added Dr. Karl Bergsten, Associate Chief Medical Officer for VIKAND. “Tom is an outstanding physician whose organisational and strategic planning skills will help develop and improve VIKAND’s medical approach to our growing US market. Tanya has demonstrated that she can inspire her staff to provide outstanding patient care while her in-depth knowledge of healthcare policies and procedures will prove invaluable in her new role.
“These new appointments will mean that our onboard medical professionals will have two more trusted and respected Medical Directors to help mentor and guide them in all aspects of their working lives.”
Hydrogen UK report urges Government to introduce national hydrogen transport strategy
A new industry report published today calls for a coordinated, national hydrogen transport strategy to support the UK’s decarbonisation and path to Net Zero.
Hydrogen has a critical role to play in the decarbonisation of transport. Hydrogen is expected to be the dominant technology choice for several transport modes including HGVs, aviation and maritime through derivatives. It is also expected to play a role alongside electrification in trains, buses and commercial vehicles.
The Hydrogen Transport Benchmarking report, undertaken by Hydrogen UK and its members, makes three key recommendations to ensure the successful implementation of hydrogen within the UK transport sector:
- Publish a Hydrogen in Transport strategy cutting across all modes of transport enabling synergies to be identified and built upon.
- Establish a minimum viable network of 200, >1 tonne per day capacity, hydrogen refuelling stations by 2030.
- Ensure the rollout of more hydrogen ecosystems like the Tees Valley project which attempt to aggregate various hydrogen demands to de-risk supply investment.
The report presents a high-level overview of the UK’s current global position, benchmarking the country’s hydrogen transport deployment and hydrogen related transport policies against other international economies. It is intended to act as a springboard for further analysis and spark debate with key Government and industry stakeholders.
Announcing the report’s publication, Hydrogen UK’s CEO Clare Jackson said: “We’re at an exciting juncture in the deployment of hydrogen as an essential component in the UK’s path to Net Zero. We know that hydrogen has a critical role to play in the decarbonisation of transport and this report highlights the importance of implementing a national hydrogen transport strategy.
“The UK Government and hydrogen industry must respond to ensure that we capitalise on the opportunities presented by this critical resource, which will help to drive the decarbonisation of our transport sector.”
AAL’s first Super B-Class newbuild enters construction with steel cutting ceremony in China
Construction has begun on AAL Shipping’s first Super B-Class heavy lift multipurpose vessel (MPV), the AAL Limassol, marked with a traditional steel cutting ceremony (pictured) this week at the CSSC Huangpu Wenchong Shipyard, Guangzhou, China.
The AAL Limassol is the first in a fleet of six 32,000 deadweight tonnes (dwt) Super B-Class vessels on order, expected to start entering the water in the first quarter of 2024.
Representing AAL at the ceremony was General Manager of AAL China, Jack Zhou, accompanied by Rangel Vassilev, Project Manager of sister company Columbia Shipmanagement (CSM), whose naval architects partnered with AAL to design the newbuild blueprint.
“AAL’s Super B-Class vessels were designed by our engineers to be the most advanced MPVs in the water, leveraging AAL’s nearly 30 years’ expertise in handling heavy lift, breakbulk, and dry bulk cargo,” said Kyriacos Panayides, Chief Executive Officer (CEO), AAL Shipping.
“Work has now begun to bring our dual-fuel Super B-Class concept to reality, and we are looking forward to leading the way in efficient, sustainable shipping solutions, while setting new standards in cargo safety and intake.”
AAL’s Super B-Class vessels break new ground in MPV ship design and the application of superior cargo handling technologies, featuring design elements that prioritise seafarer wellbeing while optimising cargo intake, security, and handling.
The mega-size vessels will measure 179.9 metres in length, with a beam of 30 metres, a depth of 15.5 metres, and a low ballast draft of 6.5 metres, with each vessel capable of carrying up to 80,000 freight-tonnes of breakbulk cargo.
The weather deck provides 4,500 square metres of clear cargo loading space, with extendable pontoons along the starboard side of the vessel to expand on-deck stowage even further.
Three port-mounted heavy lift cranes support 350 tonnes each, with a tandem lifting capacity of 700-tonnes, and an outreach of 35.7 metres, enabling cargo loading to the fore and aft of the vessel to optimise stowage space and time.
A forward-positioned bridge and accommodation block delivers unobscured sailing visibility with no restriction on cargo height, while under deck, there are two large cargo holds measuring 68 x 25 metres and 38 x 25 metres, with a height of 15.6 metres.
The new vessels will be dual fuel compatible and methanol ready, equipped with 7,380-kilowatt main engines, and two 1,600-kilowatt and one 900-kilowatt auxiliary diesel generators.
Together with the use of new ballast water treatment and hull coating technologies, the CO2 emissions of the vessels are minimised, ensuring they meet all forthcoming International Maritime Organization regulations on sustainability.
Upon completion, the Super B-Class will meet the highest possible standards for automation and emissions and be ready to harness new, greener fuels, positioning AAL as a frontrunner for more sustainable shipping solutions as global infrastructure allows.
Hapag-Lloyd confirms $20.5bn profit in 2022, forecasts ‘normalisation’ of results this year
Hapag-Lloyd has published its annual report for 2022, the year of its 175th anniversary. According to the report, Hapag-Lloyd’s EBITDA increased to USD 20.5 billion (EUR 19.4 billion). EBIT grew to USD 18.5 billion (EUR 17.5 billion), and the Group profit improved to USD 18 billion (EUR 17 billion).
“Overall, we look back on a very successful 2022 with exceptionally strong results,” said Rolf Habben Jansen, CEO of Hapag-Lloyd AG.
“ This has enabled us to strengthen our financial resilience and asset structure once again. In addition, we have improved the quality of service for our customers and invested in terminals and infrastructure as well as in the efficiency of our fleet. However, costs – such as for fuel, charter vessels and container handling – have risen significantly.
”
Revenues increased to USD 36.4 billion (EUR 34.5 billion), mainly attributable to an increase in the average freight rate, to 2,863 USD/TEU (2021: 2,003 USD/TEU), says Hapag-Lloyd. However, already by the end of the year, the freight rate had significantly decreased due to easing congestion in ports and lower demand.
Transport volumes remained on a par with the prior-year level, at 11.8 million TEU (2021: 11.9 million TEU), due to the strained supply chains. At the same time, high inflation was clearly noticeable in the per-unit costs. Transport expenses rose by 18.5 percent, to USD 14.5 billion (EUR 13.7 billion).
Looking ahead, Hapag-Lloyd expects earnings to gradually normalise in the current 2023 financial year. EBITDA is expected to be in the range of USD 4.3 to 6.5 billion (EUR 4 to 6 billion) and EBIT to be in the range of USD 2.1 to 4.3 billion (EUR 2 to 4 billion). However, this forecast remains subject to considerable uncertainty given the ongoing war in Ukraine and other geopolitical conflicts as well as the impacts of high inflation.
“We have got the current financial year off to a decent start, but the economy has cooled and a significant decrease in earnings remains inevitable,” Rolf Habben Jansen said. “So we will continue to act flexibly in the market and keep a close eye on our costs.
“In addition, we will be working very intensively on formulating the strategic course that we will pursue until 2030. Quality and sustainability will continue to have the highest priority for us, as will the safety and well-being of our employees.”
Port of Antwerp receives final go-ahead for drone network
Port of Antwerp-Bruges and its partners Dronematrix, Skeydrone and Proximus have been given the green light to operate BVLOS (Beyond Visual Line of Sight) automated drone flights on a daily basis in the Antwerp port area, a first in the world.
The approval was underlined by the visit of key representatives of European and national regulatory authorities related to drone aviation (EASA, Eurocontrol, FPS Mobility and Transport, Skeyes, DGLV). During this visit they witnessed the first authorised flight of a BVLOS drone near the Kieldrecht lock, operated from a Command & Control Center located in the center of the port.
The operational authorisation is built around a new BVLOS framework (also known as pre-Uspace airspace) built by Skeydrone and approved by BCAA (Belgian Civil Aviation Authority) and EASA (European Union Aviation Safety Agency) as a legitimate and safe framework for BVLOS flights.
With the approval of this framework, all is set for the port to fully operationalise the D-Hive network of automated drones in the next months.
ESB to work with Port of Cork on creating renewable energy infrastructure
Irish energy company ESB and the Port of Cork Company have signed a memorandum of understanding, agreeing to work together to progress plans for Ireland’s offshore wind and green hydrogen development.
The Port of Cork's masterplan outlines proposals to develop the necessary infrastructure to facilitate and support the offshore renewable-energy and green-hydrogen sectors.
It views Cork as being a key enabler of the green energy sector in Ireland by taking advantage of its natural harbour, deep-water channels, and deep-water berths, and by reclaiming land to accommodate large project cargoes for the offshore wind and green hydrogen sectors.
ESB’s Net Zero by 2040 strategy identifies collaboration with key partners, such as the Port of Cork, as playing a critical role as the company progresses its development of renewable energy in Ireland.
This partnership also supports the Government’s Climate Action Plan and its ambition to increase the proportion of renewable electricity up to 80% by 2030 and a target of at least 5GW of offshore wind energy by 2030.
Ireland's offshore wind energy potential is significant, with a maritime area more than seven times the size of its landmass, ideal wind conditions, and strategic location on the Atlantic Ocean's edge.
PowerCell secures order for delivery of world’s largest marine hydrogen fuel cells to two Norwegian ferries
Leading hydrogen fuel cell supplier PowerCell has signed an agreement to deliver hydrogen fuel cells to two ships operating on Norway's longest ferry route, representing a significant milestone for the shipping industry’s energy transition. The order, which was secured after a thorough tender process, has a value of €19.2 million, and represents the largest non-combustion fuel propulsion project to date in the global marine industry.
PowerCell will work with leading Norwegian systems developer and integrator of low- and zero-emission solutions for marine industry SEAM to deliver the solution, who will be responsible for the electrical installations on the ferries. Final delivery is to take place in the fourth quarter of 2024. Torghatten Nord and PowerCell also intend to enter into a long-term service agreement.
PowerCell will deliver its PowerCellution Marine System 200 to two vessels owned and operated by Norwegian transport group Torghatten Nord, enabling the ferries to produce approximately 6 MW of power each.
The ferries, which will predominantly be powered by green hydrogen, are expected to reduce their combined CO2 emissions by 26,500 tonnes per year. This corresponds to the CO2 emissions from 13,000 diesel cars per year being removed from the roads.
The PowerCell announcement comes as part of a Norwegian government initiative that aims to see all ferries crossing the Vestfjorden between Lofoten and Bodø in Northern Norway be emission-free. With a long and demanding crossing of up to four hours, green hydrogen was deemed the most viable solution to supply the power these vessels require. The ferries – each with a capacity of 599 passengers and 120 cars - are scheduled to operate from October 2025 as part of a replacement programme for similar sized and operable fossil energy-powered ferries.
Richard Berkling, CEO of PowerCell, commented: “This is a ground-breaking project not just for PowerCell or Norway, but for the entire marine industry, and one that we are very happy and proud to be part of.
“Norway led the development in the introduction of liquefied natural gas in the marine industry and now the country is taking an important step to establish green hydrogen as a clean energy source for our hard to abate sector. Our solutions are perfectly suited for demanding applications where operational reliability, high power density and compact format are important parameters.
“The transition to electrification and emission-free energy is accelerating and is supported by supranational initiatives such as the EU's Green Deal and the large-scale investments to reach the Paris Agreement. In Norway alone, there are roughly 800 ferry lines and ferries are a segment where we can expect great interest in hydrogen-electric solutions.
“Starting next year, the maritime sector will be included in the EU Emissions Trading System, which will increase the demand for net zero, hydrogen-powered solutions.”
‘The global nature of trade will prevail,’ MSC CEO tells TPM23 conference
Speaking at last week’s Transpacific Maritime Conference (TPM23) in Long beach, California,, MSC CEO Soren Toft gave a detailed overview of the company’s continued growth, expectations for economic recovery, and efforts to realize sustainable shipping.
“The world has seen through the supply chain crunch just how important the logistics and shipping industry really is – we keep global trade moving,” Mr Toft (pictured, right) said in an interview with the Journal of Commerce’s Peter Tirschwell. “It has really displayed the fundamental role that we have, and customers are now thinking about how to make their supply chain as resilient for the future.”
As the Covid pandemic has eased, supply chains and the freight market have normalized and the global economy should see some improvements in the second half of the year, according to Soren.
Container shipping will serve as the bedrock for the growth of international trade and commerce, and “global trade will prevail” despite the disruptions of COVID and geopolitical factors, Soren remarked. “The world will continue to be globalized, but with a more distributed supply chain,” he said.
MSC has invested significantly in renewing its fleet in recent years and will keep on injecting billions of dollars to ensure it can continue to be a long-term partner for customers, Soren said. As “first and foremost” a shipping company, MSC prefers to operate its own ships and will likely see the proportion of chartered tonnage in its fleet decline in the coming months, as well as sending some older ships to be recycled.
Overall, the impact of improving the operational efficiency of the fleet to comply with the UN IMO’s Carbon Intensity Indicator (CII) may absorb 7-10 percent of the world’s container shipping fleet capacity, he said.
When asked about the company’s future plans, Mr Toft acknowledged that MSC’s desire to serve the whole market differs from the stated strategy of some other carriers. “We define ourselves on what the customer wants, not on what we want to offer,” he said. The company remains committed to long-term partnerships, and investments that look far into the future, he added, declining to disclose specific details of the company’s strategy.
“We are a family company, so we think really long term,” Mr Toft remarked. “For us, it is about how we can build the next 53 years of history and not just the next quarter.” This means realizing investments that will ensure the company’s growth, enhancing the fleet and developing productive container terminals. Where customers seek digital solutions, or services via rail, barge, truck and air, MSC can also deliver these, depending on the customer’s need.
The interview also focused on the urgent task of achieving decarbonization across the supply chain. As the world’s largest ocean carrier, MSC endeavours to be a steward of the world’s oceans and to this end has invested substantially in cutting-edge technologies and digital applications to improve energy efficiency. It has also pioneered the use of responsibly sourced blended biofuels and will soon start using liquefied natural gas (LNG) as part of the transition towards net decarbonization by 2050.
The MSC CEO lamented the lack of a global carbon price or global research and development (R&D) fund that would have incentivized companies to develop green solutions. He also called on energy companies that are in the process of producing viable alternative green fuels to accelerate the transition and called for further cross-industry collaboration to achieve this.
MSC is looking at a multi-pronged approach, deploying several types of net-zero energy sources such as synthetic LNG, green methanol and ammonia, to propel the MSC fleet of the future when these fuels become available at scale. Whatever the solution, a net zero future will add costs to the supply chain and these costs will ultimately be passed on to the consumer, he pointed out.
“Decarbonization is something that we must solve," he said. “This is not something that we maybe should fix, this is something that we absolutely must fix, and I’m sure we will.”
UN delegates reach historic agreement on protecting marine biodiversity in international waters
Secretary-General António Guterres has congratulated UN member countries for finalizing a text to ensure the conservation and sustainable use of marine biological diversity of areas beyond national jurisdiction, calling it a “breakthrough” after nearly two decades of talks.
“This action is a victory for multilateralism and for global efforts to counter the destructive trends facing ocean health, now and for generations to come,” said the UN chief in a statement issued by his Spokesperson late Saturday evening just hours after the deal was struck at UN Headquarters in New York, where tough negotiations on the draft treaty have been under way for the past two weeks.
The agreement reached by delegates of the Intergovernmental Conference on Marine Biodiversity of Areas Beyond National Jurisdiction, better known by its acronym BBNJ, is the culmination of UN-facilitated talks that began in 2004.
Already being referred to as the ‘High Seas Treaty’, the legal framework would place 30 per cent of the world’s oceans into protected areas, put more money into marine conservation, and covers access to and use of marine genetic resources.
Through his Spokesperson, Mr. Guterres said the treaty is crucial for addressing the triple planetary crisis of climate change, biodiversity loss and pollution.
“It is also vital for achieving ocean-related goals and targets of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, and the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework,” said the statement, referring to the so-called ‘30x30’ pledge to protect a third of the world's biodiversity – on land and sea – by 2030 made by a historic UN conference in Montreal this past December.
Noting that the BBNJ decision builds on the legacy of the UN Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS), the Secretary-General commended all parties for their ambition, flexibility and perseverance, and saluted Ambassador Rena Lee, of Singapore, for her leadership and dedication.
“Ladies and gentlemen, the ship has reached the shore,” Ms. Lee said last night, announcing the agreement to an extended standing ovation in the meeting room. Delegations will reconvene later to formally adopt the text.
The statement issued by the UN Spokesperson said the Secretary-General also recognized the critical support of non-governmental organizations, civil society, academic institutions and the scientific community.
“He looks forward to continuing working with all parties to secure a healthier, more resilient, and more productive ocean, benefiting current and future generations,” the statement concluded.
Fincantieri to build four vessels for new client Edda Wind
Fincantieri, through its subsidiary Vard, has signed the contract with a new client, Edda Wind, for the construction of four Commissioning Service Operation Vessels (CSOV). The first two vessels are expected to be delivered in Q1 2025, the third in Q2 2025 and the fourth in Q1 2026. The contract has a total value of approximately euro 250 million.
Edda Wind has also secured options for 2+2 additional CSOVs at the same contract prices, with deliveries in 2025 and 2026, if declared.
Pierroberto Folgiero, CEO of Fincantieri, stated: “We are particularly satisfied with this result, which meets many directions of our development. It restates the value of the offshore wind sector as the third cornerstone of our core business, alongside cruise and defence, adding a new and ambitious client to our portfolio.
“Furthermore, the order confirms Fincantieri’s role as a technological partner for companies intending to strengthen their fleet with cutting-edge products. A double recognition by the market, which reflects the industrial identity that our Group intends to affirm with determination.”
With this order Fincantieri reaffirms itself as a prime mover in the construction of support vessels for the wind offshore sector, which is one of the core businesses designated by the Group’s new strategic plan. The ships for Edda Wind are added to the eleven CSOVs or Service Operation Vessels (SOV) in portfolio, along with two cable laying vessels.
Thanks to its know-how and its leadership, Fincantieri says the Group is confident it will seize further opportunities resulting from the increase in the total installed capacity expected by 2030 and in the additional need for vessels in the wind farms.
Harry Theochari receives OBE from HRH The Princess Royal
Eminent shipping and asset finance lawyer Harry Theochari, Chair of Maritime London and Senior Consultant at Norton Rose Fulbright LLP, as well as past Chair of Maritime UK, received his OBE (Officer of the Most Excellent Order of the British Empire) at Windsor Castle on 28 February.
He said: "I am hugely honoured and so very humbled to have received this recognition. It is for "Services to the Maritime Industry", so it was very appropriate, and an enormous pleasure for me and my family, that it was presented by HRH The Princess Royal, a great supporter and Patron of the Industry.
“I cannot in good conscience accept this great honour and recognition only for myself. Whatever I may have achieved or have been so generously credited with, would simply not have been possible without the tremendous support I have received from my family, from Government and my friends and colleagues at Maritime London, Maritime UK, and, of course, Norton Rose Fulbright LLP the law firm at which I have spent my entire career and which I have been so proud to serve."
Indian Register of Shipping selects Dassault Systèmes to drive digital transformation and boost efficiency
Leading international ship classification society Indian Register of Shipping (IRS), has entered into a collaboration with Dassault Systèmes to leverage virtual twin technology for driving its digital transformation and boosting operational efficiency.
The collaboration involves the use of Dassault Systèmes’ 3DEXPERIENCE platform to optimize the performance and efficiency of complex marine and offshore projects. The platform will enable IRS to enhance and implement data-driven decision making, concept design, engineering, integrated operations, and maintenance processes.
Through this initiative, IRS aims to enhance its capabilities, accelerate research and development, and monitor crucial key performance indicators (KPIs) of its customers’ assets. Additionally, the platform will enable IRS to create a virtual twin to enhance vessel lifecycle management, offer digital services on a unified platform, and provide end-to-end digital traceability.
“Complex marine and offshore projects need new ways to leverage the advanced technologies that are defining a new era in shipbuilding and gain an edge in the industry,” said Deepak NG, Managing Director India, Dassault Systèmes.
“The 3DEXPERIENCE platform and our industry solution experiences like Program Excellence For Sea and Designed for Sea transform shipbuilding practices to support strategic objectives sustainably. The digital management of complex projects, collaboration across multisite ecosystems, efficient production planning, and virtually exploring alternative design scenarios all impact the delivery of high-quality vessels that meet – or better yet – exceed their customers’ expectations.”
“Following a thorough analysis of marketplace solutions, we selected Dassault Systèmes to execute our digital strategy and add value to our business,” said Arun Sharma (pictured), Executive Chairman, IRS. “This association will help us achieve our business objectives, improve the quality of services, and drive sustainability initiatives. We are committed to providing the highest quality services to our customers and this collaboration will enable us to achieve that goal.”
ICS continues to grow with Luxembourg and Brazil joining
Global shipowners’ association the International Chamber of Shipping (ICS), representing over 80% of the world’s merchant fleet, is pleased to announce FEDIL Shipping, Luxembourg and the Brazilian Association of Cabotage Owners becoming Affiliate Member National Associations. The ICS Board has approved their membership, taking effect from 1 March 2023.
FEDIL Shipping acts as the shipowners’ association in Luxembourg whilst the Brazilian Association of Cabotage Owners is ICS’s second member based in Latin America. These new additions to ICS membership follow the China Shipowners’ Association becoming a Full Member on 1 January 2023.
With a membership now embracing shipowners’ associations from 41 countries and territories, Luxembourg and Brazil further strengthen ICS’s position as the principal global shipowners’ association, reinforcing ICS’s relationships across the maritime sector and with governments worldwide.
Guy Platten, Secretary General of International Chamber of Shipping, commented: “We are delighted to welcome Luxembourg and Brazil into the ICS family. Our industry is changing and as it continues to evolve we are facing significant challenges and opportunities ahead. Working together allows for collective solutions that will aid the industry to tackle important issues such as decarbonisation, seafarers’ training and welfare, and digitalisation.
“I look forward to working with both associations as we navigate through challenging times ahead.”
CMA CGM reports ‘exceptional’ 2022 results enabling a significant increase in investments
CMA CGM Group reported net income of $24.9 billion for 2022, up 7% on the previous year, on revenue of $74.5 billion (+33%), led by the Group’s maritime shipping business with revenue up 30% year-on-year to $58.9 billion.
Commenting on the full-year 2022 results, Rodolphe Saadé, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of the CMA CGM Group, said: “Our Group achieved exceptional, historic results in 2022 that have enabled us to invest significantly in operations across our business, step up our energy transition and share the created value with our employees.
As trade returns to normal and freight rates decline, our strategy and recent investments will prove all the more relevant and allow us to look forward to 2023 with confidence.
Leveraging our financial strength and entrepreneurial spirit, we will continue to develop our operations in transport and logistics to meet the needs of our customers, who expect a group like ours to deliver the best service at the lowest possible cost, with the smallest environmental footprint.”
The Group has already committed $10.2 billion for a fleet of 77 LNG-powered and ‘e-methane ready’ vessels of which 32 are already in operation and six biomethanol-powered, e-methanol ready ships will be available by the end of 2026. Nine new e-methane ready dual-fuel container ships joined the fleet in 2022.
In addition, the Group owns equity stakes in more than 56 port terminals and projects around the world. In 2022, CMA CGM stepped up its investments in industry-leading infrastructure to continue supporting growth in its shipping lines and enhance the quality of its customer service.
The Group now owns 100% of the Fenix Marine Services (FMS) terminal in the Long Beach/Los Angeles port area, the US’s leading West Coast import gateway; has started its 10-year operation to manage, operate and maintain the Beirut container terminal; and has been awarded the concession for the Nhava Sheva terminal in India, with its partner JM Baxi.
Late in the year, CMA CGM announced the acquisition of two strategic terminals at the Port of New York, GCT Bayonne and GCT New York, which have a combined capacity of two million TEUs per year with potential for further expansion up to almost double the current capacity. The closing of this transaction remains subject to regulatory approvals.
Solis Marine Group appoints Duncan Campbell as Partner
As Solis Marine Group continues its plans for expansion, the company has announced the appointment of senior naval architect and leading data analyst Duncan Campbell as a Partner.
Based out of Solis Marine’s London practice, Duncan takes overall responsibility for naval architecture consultancy services.
Duncan joined Solis Marine in 2017 as a naval architect and AIS and VDR analyst, working out of Solis Marine’s Singapore office before relocating to London at the end of 2019.
He provides consultancy and survey services to marine and offshore clients with a focus on hydrostatic stability and strength analyses, salvage and expert witness work, casualty management and project risk management.
Duncan has worked extensively with the analysis of AIS and VDR data, providing visual representations of vessel movements used in collision, casualty and traffic analyses. He has led the development of Solis Marine’s custom built Rapid Replay platform, providing written and oral evidence with regards to the extraction and analysis of vessel electronic data used in the reconstruction of shipping incidents in court proceedings.
Commenting on his appointment, Duncan said: “I’m delighted to have been appointed a partner at Solis Marine after a very enjoyable six years with the company. I’m looking forward to working with our clients to further expand our naval architecture consultancy services and continuing the development of our AIS and VDR analysis services.”
Solis Marine Group chairman Nigel Clark said: “Since joining Solis Marine, Duncan has made great progress in furthering our naval architecture services, gaining success and recognition as an expert witness and taking the lead in the development and promotion of our Rapid Replay system. We are pleased to welcome him as a Partner.”
In previous roles, Duncan carried out vessel surveys, damage surveys and equipment certification and worked as a naval architect on projects including new build plan approval, stability analysis, damage inspection, repair specification and supervision, vessel modifications and strength analysis.
He graduated from the University of Strathclyde and University of Glasgow as a Master of Engineering in Naval Architecture and Marine Engineering in 2009, becoming a Chartered Engineer in 2017. Duncan is a member of RINA.
Seatrade Maritime collaborates with DSAA to reinforce development of Dubai shipping agents’ community
Ahead of this year’s Seatrade Maritime Logistics Middle East, flagship event of the UAE Maritime Week, Seatrade Maritime and the Dubai Shipping Agents Association (DSAA) have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU), aimed at supporting and promoting shared objectives.
The main goal of the MoU is to advance the growth and development of the shipping industry in the region, by promoting the interests of the shipping agents’ community in Dubai, raising standards in the sector, fostering stronger relationships, increasing cooperation between key stakeholders, and promoting the systematic and orderly training of professionally qualified personnel.
As part of the agreement, Seatrade Maritime will provide the DSAA with the status of ‘Supporting Organisation’ for the Seatrade Maritime Logistics Middle East conference, the leading regional event for the logistics and maritime industries, scheduled to be held at the Dubai World Trade Centre from 16 to 18 May, 2023. This will help to promote the work of the DSAA to Seatrade's audience and provide the association with greater exposure to potential clients.
Commenting on the partnership, Nayana Nandkumar (pictured, left), Manager, DSAA said: "We are delighted to partner with Seatrade Maritime. This alliance will enable us to expand our reach and promote our services to the massive audience that connects with Seatrade Maritime.
“We also look forward to working together to support the growth and development of the maritime industry in Dubai and the wider region. This collaboration demonstrates our dedication to promoting the interests of the Dubai community of shipping agents.”
By having shipping agencies represented at significant ‘think tank’ events, the cooperation with Seatrade Maritime will also help DSAA advance its goals of promoting the shipping sector. Together with the appropriate government agencies, it will help DSAA maintain its efforts to strengthen industry standards. The alliance will also improve and deepen the connections and teamwork between shipping agents, principals, shippers, customs officials, and other governmental, national, and international trade organisations.
Chris Morley (pictured, right), Group Director, Seatrade Maritime said: “The partnership with DSAA will enhance the value proposition of Seatrade Maritime's events and it will ensure that we remain beneficial to all stakeholders in the maritime industry.”
Earlier Seatrade Maritime signed similar MoUs with Emirates Shipping Association and Youngship UAE in the run-up to the Seatrade Maritime Logistics Middle East event.
Register now: https://bit.ly/3R0fljh
Take on the world’s greatest marathon for seafarers in need
Maritime professionals who are keen runners but missed out on a TCS London Marathon 2023 place can still apply for a guaranteed Virtual London Marathon place with seafarer welfare charity Sailors' Society.
Virtual London Marathon can be run as a team or individually, from any location, anywhere in the world. Participants just need to cover 26.2 miles over 24 hours on Sunday April 23 - the same day as the marathon in London. With cutting edge technology pointing out landmarks along the way, virtual runners can feel like they are running in the UK’s capital.
Sara Baade, Sailors’ Society CEO, said: “The beauty of taking on Virtual London Marathon is that registrants can take part wherever they are in the world and do it their way. Run or walk it, as a team or on your own, from home or away, in stages or all at once – it’s up to you.
“This is a great opportunity to tick one of the world’s greatest marathons off the bucket list, as well as raising vital funds to support seafarers and their families in need.”
To enter, runners need to pay a registration fee of just £30 and commit to raise at least £200 in sponsorship.
In return, participants will receive expert fundraising and training advice, audio support and route tracking on the official app powered by TCS, an official finisher’s medal, a Sailors' Society training top and finishing line tape. An added bonus is that registrants will also be shortlisted for a physical place in the live 2024 TCS London Marathon.
To get on board Sailors’ Society’s Virtual TCS London Marathon 2023 team and help raise much-needed funds for the charity’s global work, find out more and sign up today at: https://sailors-society.org/events
IMO welcomes new oceans treaty
IMO has welcomed the landmark agreement on a new oceans treaty to protect marine biodiversity on the high seas.
The new legally binding international instrument on the conservation and sustainable use of marine biological diversity in areas beyond national jurisdiction – known as 'BBNJ' was agreed on 4 March, following conclusion of the fifth round of treaty negotiations at the United Nations headquarters in New York, United States.
IMO Secretary-General Kitack Lim said: "This landmark achievement will no doubt reinforce efforts to protect biodiversity in line with the aims of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development and the Kunming-Montreal Global Framework for Biodiversity. IMO has participated throughout the negotiations given the organisation's mandate and expertise and will continue to participate, in the implementation of the new instrument. IMO looks forward to further strengthening our cooperation with Member States, the UN family and all other stakeholders."
The BBNJ treaty addresses, among other things:
• the conservation and sustainable use of marine BBNJ;
• marine genetic resources, including questions on benefit-sharing (MGR);
• Area Based Management Tools (ABMT), including marine protected areas;
• environmental impact assessments (EIA); and
• capacity-building and the transfer of marine technology (CB&TMT).
IMO has been present throughout the negotiations and has actively cooperated with the UN, in particular with Division for Ocean Affairs and the Law of the Sea (DOALOS) of the Office of Legal Affairs of the United Nations; the International Seabed Authority (ISA) and with other specialized agencies like The Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO), Intergovernmental Oceanographic Commission of UNESCO (IOC) IOC of UNESCO and the International Labour Organization (ILO).
IMO officials have outlined IMO's experience in developing universal binding regulations for international shipping to ensure shipping's sustainable use of the oceans, through more than 50 globally-binding treaties.
Ships plying their trade across the world's oceans are subject to stringent environmental, safety and security rules, which apply throughout their voyage.
IMO regulations are enforced through a well-established system of flag, coastal and port State control. Many IMO measures actively contribute to the conservation of marine biological diversity in areas beyond national jurisdiction, including the International Convention for the Prevention of Pollution by ships (MARPOL) and the International Ballast Water Management Convention – which aims to prevent the transfer of potentially invasive aquatic species – as well as the London Convention and Protocol regulating the dumping of wastes at sea.
IMO has adopted numerous protective measures, which all ships must adhere to, both in and outside designated sensitive sea areas (PSSAs) and in special areas and emission control areas. These include strict rules on operational discharges as well as areas to be avoided and other ship routing systems, including those aimed at keeping shipping away from whales' breeding grounds. IMO's Polar Code is mandatory for ships for operating in the Arctic and Antarctic. IMO has also issued guidance on protecting marine life from underwater ship noise.
The series of conferences to develop the new BBNJ legally binding instrument under the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS) began in 2018.
PPG SIGMAGLIDE 2390 marine coating delivers dramatic power savings and emissions reductions
Coatings supplier PPG has announced the launch of PPG SIGMAGLIDE® 2390 marine coating, a breakthrough approach to help shipowners lower power consumption and carbon emissions and meet demands for higher performance with no adverse impact on the marine environment.
The biocide-free fouling release coating is based on revolutionary PPG HydroReset™ technology, which modifies the coating when it is immersed in water to create a super-smooth, almost friction-free surface that marine organisms do not recognize and cannot adhere to.
Based on third-party evidence following ISO 19030 and International Towing Tank Conference (ITTC) standards, this coating enables vessels to maintain a clean hull and reduce drag, achieving power savings of up to 20%, a speed loss performance of less than 1%, and up to 35% reduction in CO2 emissions in comparison to traditional antifouling coatings. Actual performance will depend on ship model and operating conditions.
PPG Sigmaglide 2390 coating can help owners and operators to meet targets for reduction of greenhouse gas emissions under the International Maritime Organization’s energy efficiency (EEXI and EEDI) and carbon intensity (CII) requirements, which went into effect this year.
“PPG Sigmaglide 2390 coating is a unique formulation that paves the way for ship owners and operators to improve efficiency and reduce CO2 emissions,” said Jan Willem Tegelaar, PPG global platform director, Marine Coatings. “The speed loss performance of less than 1% helps ships operate at an average one knot higher speed while remaining CII compliant.”
The exceptional fouling control performance of PPG Sigmaglide 2390 coating is achieved with no release of biocides into the oceans.
PPG Sigmaglide 2390 coating is also suitable for electrostatic application, which provides high transfer efficiency, leading to lower paint consumption. In service, the coating can deliver up to 150 days of idle performance and an extended lifetime of more than 10 years with minimal maintenance requirements. These benefits, combined with the power savings, provide an industry-leading return on investment for shipowners.
Synergy Group rolls out tailor-made PPE to female seafarers on more than 60 vessels
Synergy Group, one of the world’s leading ship managers with a diverse fleet of over 540 vessels, is rolling out new tailor-made Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) to its growing number of female seafarers.
Synergy, which employs over 20,000 seafarers, commissioned Hercules Safety to manufacture the new gear to the highest specifications.
The PPE was designed by textile engineers in conjunction with female seafarers and maritime safety experts to ensure the final cut maximised comfort and versatility for crew deployed in a maritime work environment where the highest standards of protection are required.
The material consists of 100% soft and durable cotton, with seams reinforced in high stress areas to ensure both safety and comfort over extended periods of time. The PPE is also highly visible with 3M reflective strips designed to maximise visibility in all maritime working environments.
The new Hercules Safety PPE is currently being distributed to all female crew as port rotations allow. The roll-out takes in on over 60 Synergy-managed vessels worldwide on which female seafarers are currently deployed.
Capt. Radhika Menon (pictured, left), winner of the 2016 IMO award for exceptional bravery at sea and a mentor to Synergy’s young female seafarers, said: “These new coveralls are a great fit and super-functional: breathable, weatherproof, lightweight and comfortable. The fabric is suitable and protective for the bridge and for the engine room where it gets hot. It’s also resilient, just like our seafarers; a quality we are happy to celebrate as International Women’s Day draws near. This new PPE enhances safety which is always Synergy’s priority.”
Chief Officer Reshma Murkar (pictured, right) said the commission of the new PPE sent a positive message about equality to the maritime community. “To be 100% work fit, we need the best fit, and that is what we have now,” she added. “These new PPE designs represent a clear commitment to supporting the role of women in shipping and illustrate why Synergy is making so much progress in its efforts to attract more women to our marvellous industry.”
Third Officer Noopur Mohire (pictured, centre) said that many seafarer products were designed with only men in mind, rendering them ill-fitting for women. “Synergy prioritises crew safety and this new PPE clearly offers that,” she added. “But it’s also very comfortable to wear and I’m glad female seafarers were consulted during the design process by Hercules Safety. I’ve got plenty of pockets to carry my tools, but not too many that they are a hazard. I can move around easily, and I’ve got protection when I’m on deck conducting duties.”
Synergy’s progressive policies on diversity, inclusivity and equality have enabled women employed by Synergy, as well as the company itself, to grow and prosper. Synergy’s commitment to encouraging women to become seafarers now includes its own Chakra Scholarship which enables 14-15 years old students to begin training to join the maritime industry.
Synergy’s CSR team is also active at major maritime outreach events in India, with Chennai-based SEVALAYA and a municipal school run by Muktangan in Mumbai amongst its NGO partners.
Capt. HS Swaminathan, COO Crew Management of Synergy Group, commented: “We’ve been expanding the number of women in the Synergy ranks at sea and ashore for many years as part of our diversity, equality and inclusivity programmes. We want them to feel at home and safe in their place of work. Making sure they have comfortable PPE designed to the highest safety and functional standards is, of course, a foundational, but critical, part of that process.”
Companies investing more into crews’ health and nutrition, says leading catering management provider
The wellbeing of crew members is becoming more important to shipping companies says leading catering management provider MCTC, as firm expands and moves to bigger offices to accommodate its growing team.
MCTC has recently moved its headquarters to another base in Limassol, Cyprus, as it is attracting more clients who are investing in health and nutrition and the wellbeing of their seafarers.
International company MCTC provides the full spectrum of catering management services to vessels, from recipe planning, ordering provisions, and budgeting, along with a range of catering and nutrition training courses for galley staff. It also promotes a healthy lifestyle with fitness and mental health initiatives.
As the shipping industry looks towards catering for the needs of the new generation of seafarers, MCTC CEO Christian Ioannou believes more people are now investing in their crews.
He said: “When MCTC first started there was a lack of interest in the wellbeing of seafarers and the importance of ensuring they are provided with healthy and nutritious meals. But we could see that the tide was going to turn and there was going to be a big shift in wellbeing and mental health, which food is of course a big driver of.
“We are now seeing more and more shipping companies investing into the health of their crews and the training of their galley crews. They are understanding the importance of ensuring galley crews are well trained in knowing how to manage their catering and create nutritious food daily, and how this impacts their whole crew’s physical and mental health too.”
The new office boasts more office space for employees, a stylish décor, and a rooftop garden where it can welcome clients, accommodate its growing workforce, and hold networking events.
Mr Ioannou added: “We are delighted to have begun 2023 with such an exciting move for MCTC. We are welcoming more clients to our portfolio and seeing a real change in the industry towards wellbeing. Companies are also realising that the new generation of seafarers want to work for a company that will look after them and their health.
“They are looking for companies that provide them with access to workouts, mental health support and access to the same food they enjoy at home. We are seeing increases in diets like vegan, vegetarians, keto, etc, so it’s important they know they are not compromising their health when they are signing up to a career working away at sea.”
The Bahamas is once again amongst the first members of the IMO Council to present its annual IMO member state assessment payment
On 27 February The Bahamas continued its long-held tradition of making its annual member state assessment payment to the International Maritime Organisation in full and well in advance of the payment deadline.
The contribution for 2023 was presented to IMO Secretary-General Kitack Lim by The Bahamas Minister of Transport and Housing, JoBeth Coleby-Davis MP, and The Bahamas’ newly-appointed Ambassador to the IMO, Paul Rolle, who attended the IMO with The BMA Board’s Deputy Chairman, Peter John Goulandris, and BMA Managing Director and CEO, Capt Dwain Hutchinson.
As one of the world’s leading Ship Registers, The Bahamas’ annual assessed contribution represents just under 4% of the IMO’s overall 2023 budget at 3.58%, making The Bahamas one of the largest financial contributors to the organisation.
The Bahamas is a long-standing Council member of the IMO and has a history of taking a leading role in areas relating to safety, security, environment and human element within the IMO committees, sub-committees, working and correspondence groups. It also actively participates at meetings of the International Labour Organisation (ILO), International Mobile Satellite Organisation (IMSO), International Oil Pollution Compensation (IOPC) Funds and regionally within the Caribbean Port State Control Committee.
Capt Hutchinson said: “We are particularly pleased this year to have our Minister and IMO Ambassador with us for the presentation of our member state assessment contribution to the IMO. As a Small Island Developing State Council member which nonetheless has one of the world’s largest ship registries, we are committed to upholding the IMO’s stance on the UN sustainable development goals and, as such, we are proud to be among the first IMO Member States every year to pay their contribution in full.”
Caption: Pictured left to right:
Ghulam Hussain (BMA Deputy Director-Maritime Affairs),
Captain Hutchinson, Peter John Goulandris (Deputy Chairman of the BMA Board),
Minister Coleby-Davis MP, Secretary General Kitack Lim, Ambassador Paul Rolle and his wife Mrs Rolle, Gaynell Rolle (Under Secretary to Ministry of Transport & Housing),
Bernis Pinder (Bahamas Maritime Attaché).
Ends
ZeroNorth appoints Mike Konstantinidis to level up sensor data in new business unit
Copenhagen-based technology company ZeroNorth has today announced it has appointed Mike Konstantinidis as Managing Director of Vessel Optimisation and Head of ZeroNorth's Athens Office.
In this role, Mike will head up a new business area focused on bringing high frequency data captured by on-board sensors to the ZeroNorth platform, enriching its data analysis capabilities and giving further training data input for existing data models.
This new high frequency data will further enrich ZeroNorth’s data ecosystem and provide extra insight to customers by enhancing their decision-making, commerciality and sustainability. The new sensor-based input will also continually train and improve ZeroNorth’s existing data models.
Commenting on his appointment, Mike Konstantinidis (pictured) said: “ZeroNorth is doing a great job in helping its customers navigate digitalisation and decarbonisation in this new era of shipping. I am delighted to join the company to broaden its data to include high frequency sensor data analysis.
"The industry is on a journey of digital transformation. In my role at ZeroNorth, I am excited to provide the analysis of even more data sources to our customers, helping them to optimise decision-making for profit and planet.”
Mike has worked in the technology space for more than 35 years, joining the shipping industry just over 6 years ago. He has a wealth of experience in software, systems integration and in his last role as Co-Founder & Chief Executive Officer at METIS Cyberspace Technology SA, Mike was powering the digital transformation of maritime through artificial intelligence. He brings this knowledge and expertise to his new role at ZeroNorth.
Commenting on Mike joining the company, Søren Meyer, CEO at ZeroNorth, said: “I am incredibly excited for Mike to join the ZeroNorth team, bringing his expertise in high frequency data to enrich our data analysis and fuel modelling capabilities. His experience in both the maritime and technology industries will deepen our knowledge and ability to help customers navigate their digital transformation as the industry embraces more high frequency data to drive the green transition.”
Navarino and Cobham Satcom enhance strategic partnership
Communications and connectivity company Navarino and Cobham Satcom, a leading provider of radio and satellite communication (satcom) solutions to the global maritime and land mobile sectors, have extended their strategic partnership based on integration of next generation SAILOR XTR antennas with Navarino’s global connectivity services.
Navarino, the world’s largest Inmarsat Fleet Xpress Value Added Reseller, also offers a full portfolio of Ku-Band solutions leveraging networks from Intelsat and SES. With Cobham Satcom as a strategic partner, Navarino’s ability to deliver the most advanced technology solutions to the merchant maritime fleets it serves worldwide will be boosted with access to both Ka- and Ku-band antennas from the expanding SAILOR XTR portfolio.
“The new strategic partnership with Cobham Satcom includes a significant commitment to delivering new capabilities only possible with the SAILOR XTR technology platform, which will help us to strengthen our network diversity and meet the market’s need for cost-effective connectivity solutions with integral flexibility for the future,” said Andreas Dimitriadis, Director Strategic Relations, Navarino. “The timing is just right as the space segment continues to evolve with major new constellations and services available now or on the horizon, which will unlock opportunities and choices for our clients in the coming years.
“We have partnered with Cobham Satcom for many years and in addition to transforming the maritime industry through new technology, our experience of their global service network is that they are able to address issues quickly and cost effectively, which is absolutely essential to ensure that our clients experience maximum up time wherever they are operating,” he added.
“Formalising our existing work with Navarino in a strategic agreement is a very positive step” said Erik Nieuwmeijer, Sales Director, EMEA. “For Cobham Satcom we are able to work closely with an innovative and technology-leading satellite service provider, while the flexible nature of SAILOR XTR allows them to deliver the agility required for their customers to easily migrate to new services in their portfolio without having the expense and downtime of installing new VSAT antennas.”
HEMEXPO welcomes ERGOMATIC as latest member company
Hellenic Marine Equipment Manufacturers and Exporters (HEMEXPO), Greece’s suppliers and exporters association for the international shipping sector, has welcomed ERGOMATIC as its 33rd member company. The move adds a new area of expertise to the broad cross-section of Greek equipment manufacturers and technology specialists already represented on HEMEXPO’s list of members.
Headquartered in Athens, ERGOMATIC supplies high-quality components and integrated automation solutions, such as valves and piping, electrical automation systems, measurement and control instrumentation and pneumatic and hydraulic equipment to marine and industrial customers. The company also provides a range of services including integrated system design, class approval, repairs and round-the-clock technical support. Its solutions and services are certified by ABS Quality Evaluations in line with ISO 9001:2015.
“ERGOMATIC is a welcome addition to our growing members list, bringing new expertise in critical maritime equipment alongside a comprehensive offering of dedicated services,” commented Eleni Polychronopoulou (pictured), HEMEXPO President. “We look forward to working with ERGOMATIC as we help the company to seize opportunities in new and existing markets and drive business growth.”
Representing Greek maritime technology specialists on the international stage, HEMEXPO maintains close relationships with shipowners, classification societies and shipyards to understand the issues facing the industry and provide the best technical solutions. HEMEXPO members are on the approved suppliers lists of over 50 shipyards worldwide, with ERGOMATIC the latest company to gain access to this extensive network.
“Membership of HEMEXPO brings a multitude of benefits including greater market access, opportunities to collaborate and build relationships across the shipping supply chain and to enhance insights into industry developments,” said Lykourgos Kontakos ERGOMATIC Managing Director. “We are therefore delighted to join HEMEXPO and look forward to reaping the many rewards on offer.”
With the IMO targeting a 50% reduction in marine greenhouse gas emissions by 2050 compared with 2008, HEMEXPO is committed to delivering sustainable solutions and services to support shipping’s green transition. Several of the association’s member companies specialise in sustainable technology – such as friction-reducing hull coatings, shore connection facilities and carbon capture systems.
“K” LINE starts collaborative research on decarbonisation with Anglo American
Kawasaki Kisen Kaisha, Ltd. (“K” LINE) announces that it has signed a Memorandum of Understanding with Anglo American, for which it has been engaged in the seaborne transportation of raw materials, regarding the establishment of a working committee for collaborative research on decarbonisation.
Anglo American and “K” LINE have agreed to collaborate through the sharing of research and ideas and the utilization of both parties’ knowledge of new marine technology, alternative fuels and other fields that have the potential to grow in the near future to achieve their common goal of net-zero greenhouse gas emissions.
Anglo American is a leading, global mining company with a portfolio of competitive, world class operations and a broad range of future development options.
In its Medium-Term Management Plan published on May 9th, 2022, “K” LINE defined the marine transportation business using coal and iron ore carriers as one of its top priority areas driving growth.
The company says it will continuously strive to enhance its corporate value by contributing to the sustainable development of society and the global environment with active collaboration on decarbonisation through the development of partnerships with customers.
Wärtsilä to deliver its first CCS-Ready scrubber systems
The technology group Wärtsilä has received its first order for carbon capture and storage-ready scrubber systems - CCS-Ready scrubbers - the company has announced today. The major milestone marks the first time that Wärtsilä has received an order for its CCS technologies on a vessel.
The order was booked in Wärtsilä’s order intake in November 2022 and the delivery is expected to take place in 2023.
Four 8,200 TEU container vessels, being built at an undisclosed Asian-based yard, will be fitted with Wärtsilä’s CCS-Ready 35MW scrubber in an open loop configuration.
The scrubbers are termed CCS-Ready because, as part of their installation, Wärtsilä will perform additional design and engineering work to ensure that future retrofits for a full CCS system on the vessels have already been accounted for during the newbuilding construction stage.
Wärtsilä will take measures to ensure adequate space for the future installation of the CCS system, incorporate considerations for minimising idle load and optimising utilities, and prepare the control and automation system accordingly. CCS-Ready scrubbers will also be designed for integration with a Particulate Matter filter.
Having a CCS-Ready solution assures that the undisclosed ship owner has continued regulatory compliance for SOx emissions today and opens the door to smooth CCS system adoption in the future.
By installing scrubbers that have been designed with the space and capabilities to have a CCS unit added, Wärtsilä is enabling ship owners to futureproof their existing assets, while remaining competitive and compliant.
Scott Oh, Director at Wärtsilä’s Exhaust Treatment Asia, said: “We are very excited to announce this world-first order for our CCS-Ready scrubber solution. By investing in a CCS-Ready scrubber, ship owners will futureproof their assets and enable a smooth transition to CCS adoption once the technology is mature in the very near future. CCS is one of the key solutions to enable maritime decarbonisation in a short timeframe, and we look forward to progressing our technology further.”
Wärtsilä is currently testing its CCS system at a 70% capture rate and a pilot installation will take place within the next twelve months.
Wärtsilä Exhaust Treatment is the market-leading marine exhaust gas cleaning system manufacturer, with a range of lifecycle scrubbing solutions. Wärtsilä offers integrated compliant solutions for all types of ships, and in open-loop, closed-loop or hybrid configurations. Wärtsilä’s scrubbers are built with a modular approach to future technology development, creating a platform for the abatement of other emissions from shipping beyond sulphur.
Call for more historical content to aid ‘Rewriting Women into Maritime History’
A pioneering project to highlight the activities of women in the commercial shipping industry, ‘Rewriting Women into Maritime History’ is using International Women’s Day 2023 to call for more organisations to search their archives and submit stories of women’s vital role in global shipping through the ages.
Since the initiative was launched in September 2022, more than 25 organisations have offered their support including Historic England, The Seafarer’s Charity, Maritime Archaeological Trust, the Seafarers Hospital Society, Women in Trade and Shipping Association UK (WISTA UK), The Nautical Institute and many more.
The project is being led by Lloyd’s Register Foundation’s Heritage and Education Centre, supported by Lloyd’s Register Group. Organisers are calling for more organisations with archives connected to the maritime sector to contact them, so the process can begin of researching and interpreting their records through the lens of women’s involvement in shipping, now and over previous centuries.
Initial themes to emerge from the project will shared during London International Shipping Week in September 2023, via the ‘She_Sees’ project (pictured). It will combine historic accounts with stories of contemporary women working in the maritime sector through a creative visual approach. The storytelling process involves gathering and recording participant’s stories as well as co-creating portraits to visually represent maritime women’s narratives through textiles and photography.
A key objective of the project is to raise the profile of maritime expertise, experience and leadership, empowering women by reframing the narrative of a predominantly masculine industry and promoting opportunities to encourage more women into the sector.
Louise Sanger, Head of Research, Interpretation and Engagement at Lloyd’s Register Foundation said: ‘This is an exciting opportunity for organisations to look into their archive and discover overlooked histories of the vital, but sometimes under-publicised, role of women in the maritime industry over hundreds of years. It’s a legacy which can still have an impact today, which is why the Rewriting Women into Maritime History project will also share and promote current research on women in the maritime sector.’
Natasha Brown, Head of Public Information Services at the IMO said: “Shipping is fundamental for world trade, carrying more than 80% of all goods traded worldwide. The sector is still male-dominated, but past and contemporary stories of women in maritime highlight the abundance of opportunities for greater diversity in the sector."
Deborah Layde Chief Executive of The Seafarers' Charity and Chair of the Women in Maritime Network said: "Real life stories of women in maritime will provide aspirational role models, and allies, for women seeking a career at sea. As Chair of Maritime UK's Women In Maritime programme I understand more work is needed to increase gender balance in shipping: there are only 24,000+ women seafarers internationally i.e. 1.28% of the workforce (ICS/BIMCO workforce report 2021).
“Quite simply more women at sea will improve both the productivity and profitability of maritime, as it has been evidenced in other sectors and workplaces across the globe."
Sandra Welch, CEO of the Seafarers Hospital Society said: "The Seafarers Hospital Society has a long history of women patrons, employees, charity workers and benefactors committed to the treatment of all seafarers, regardless of race, religion or nationality working in UK waters. Their support and advocacy advanced medical histories for maritime and the world as a whole and we are proud to showcase their stories and contributions to our industry’s history."
The project will focus on the UK and Ireland in 2023, branching out to international collaborations in 2024, and will run for several years. The current content call will close on 30th June 2023.
Details on the project, including the parameters for inclusion and how to submit stories, are available at: Rewriting Women Into Maritime History | Learn & Explore | Heritage & Education Centre (lrfoundation.org.uk)
Statement by IMO Secretary-General Kitack Lim on International Women’s Day
"On 8 March every year, UN Women and the entire United Nations system celebrate International Women’s Day.
This year, the theme for International Women’s Day is “DigitALL: Innovation and technology for gender equality”.
This has great relevance for the International Maritime Organization (IMO) family.
Shipping is going through a transformation, tackling climate change through decarbonisation and undergoing digitalisation and automation at a rapid rate.
This transformation needs the best talent – and that means embracing diversity and ensuring that any barriers to participation are broken down.
In maritime and across all sectors, working environments must be enabling, supportive and inclusive of diverse participation by all, without hindrance.
IMO is strongly committed to helping its Member States achieve the UN 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development and the 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly Goal 5 ‘Achieve gender equality and empower all women and girls’.
The IMO continues to make significant contribution to the participation of women in the Maritime industry through our effective and impactful Women in Maritime Programme.
The long-standing commitment received a boost with the adoption of the International Day for Women in Maritime( IDWIM) in 2021 (celebrated on 18thMay each year) followed by the establishment of a Gender Equality Award by the IMO Council to provide international recognition to those individuals, irrespective of their gender, who either in their personal capacity or as representatives of their respective institutions have made significant contributions towards the advancement of gender equality and empowerment of women in the maritime sector.
At IMO Headquarters, we are marking International Women’s Day with a visit from a guest speaker.
IMO staff and delegates will hear from Mary Ann Sieghart, author of the best-selling book, The Authority Gap: Why Women Are Still Taken Less Seriously Than Men, and What We Can Do About it. She will be speaking on “International Women’s Day: Narrowing the Gender Equality Gap in One Generation – Global Challenge and Global Responsibility”.
On 18 May, we will have another opportunity to highlight the role of women, specifically, women in maritime on the International Day for Women in Maritime (IDWIM). In 2023, IMO will host a conference, on the theme of ‘Mobilising networks for gender equality’. The conference will cover a wide range of topics and will bring together representatives from the eight Women in Maritime Associations which IMO has helped establish across the globe.
Throughout the year, every day, we must continue the fight for gender equality."
ATPI expert to head panel at ITM Sustainability Summit
At today’s ITM Sustainability Summit, ATPI’s Head of Commercial Strategy, Nikki Regan, will be part of an expert panel discussing the role of a Travel Management Company (TMC) in embedding sustainable practices with clients.
Joining ATPI’s expert on the panel, are fellow industry leaders Kim Trenter, the Global Travel Manager for DAZN, and Mark Corbett, the Founder at Thrust Carbon. United, this panel is in a distinguished position to discuss how a TMC can aid a partner in embedding sustainable practices.
In the travel sector, there is a growing aspiration to design a sustainable industry that benefits our planet. Net-zero emission goals are now common, and legislation changes to enforce these goals are not far away. Change must be embraced now before they are imposed later.
But how can a TMC, a critical advisor to a partnering corporate manager, support partners in creating and designing a sustainable travel programme strategy? The speaking experts will outline and detail ways to begin to build and maintain a programme, including by delivering initiatives, supporting buyers in advocating within their businesses and how to make the best use of data to support the right decisions.
Nikki Regan, ATPI’s Head of Commercial Strategy who will be on the panel, has said: “It is vital that TMCs support clients in making essential travel more sustainable. TMCs have to offer solutions that are tailored to their clients’ needs and goals, whilst assisting clients in measuring, reducing and offsetting emissions.
“At ATPI, we have led the way with ambitious and sustainable projects. Our methodology for measuring, reducing and offsetting CO2 emissions, ATPI Halo, is celebrated across the industry. We are using this cutting-edge service as a benchmark for what we aspire to do in sustainable travel – this year, we have outlined our CSR and sustainability vision, which we intend to carry on into the future.”
ATPI Halo is a CO2 measurement, reduction and offset service, that supports organisations in changing their approach towards business travel for the better. Nikki’s subject matter on the Thursday 9 March panel will include jargon-busting around sustainability to support buyers.
ClassNK issues four AiPs for GTT’s latest development projects in alternative fuels
ClassNK has issued four Approvals in Principle (AiPs) to GTT following the French company’s latest development projects in alternative fuels, which were handed over during a ceremony in Tokyo on 6 March 2023.
The four AiPs were for:
- Concept of 12,500m3 LNG Dual-fuelled VLCC fitted with Mark III Flex system
- Concept of LNG Fuel Tanks with NH3 ready notation that includes material compatibility with NH3, risk assessment and Boil-off gas management
- Concept of 8,000 CEU PCTC LNG Dual-fuelled with NH3 ready notation
- Recycool™ system applied to LNG fuelled vessels which is designed for allowing the reliquefaction of LNG evaporation in order to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and economic losses
ClassNK carried out the verification on those accomplishments in line with its rules including Part N incorporating the IGC Code, Part GF incorporating the IGF Code, and its Guidelines for Ships Using Alternative Fuels. Among the above, the AiP for Recycool™ marked a world-first AiP for a system of its kind.
Philippe Berterottière (pictured, right), Chairman and CEO of GTT, said: “We are very pleased to have received these Approvals in Principle in person and to be back in Japan after the global pandemic. These certifications confirm the research and innovation work performed by GTT engineers and technicians. We thank ClassNK for their trust in our technologies on alternative fuels.”
Masaki Matsunaga (left), Corporate Officer / Director of Plan Approval and Technical Solution Division, ClassNK said: “It is a great honor to welcome GTT’s team back to Japan and hand over four AiPs for their innovative and inspiring concepts pursuing low and zero carbon shipping upon our rigorous verification process in line with the appropriate standards for each solution.
"We congratulate GTT on achieving these milestones and look forward to continuing our partnership with them in implementing sustainable energy initiatives.”
StormGeo expands ownership in Brazil’s Climatempo to enhance reach in Latin America
StormGeo, a leading player in weather intelligence and operational decision support and part of Alfa Laval, has increased its holding in Climatempo, the premier meteorological services provider in Brazil. With the increased shareholding, StormGeo is set to offer more comprehensive and advanced weather intelligence solutions to customers across South America.
Having acquired 51% of Climatempo Group in 2019, StormGeo has moved ahead with the acquisition of an additional 38.66% of shares, thereby increasing StormGeo’s shareholding to 89.66%.
The additional investment reflects the success of Climatempo in growing the weather business in Brazil, onboarding many new customers and industries to their weather intelligence products.
StormGeo’s increase of their holding in Climatempo will enable the two companies to further combine their expertise and resources, bringing together StormGeo's weather forecasting and risk management solutions with Climatempo's local weather knowledge and strong customer relations.
In conjunction with the ownership change, Patricia Madeira, the current COO, will take over as CEO of Climatempo Group on May 1st, 2023, ensuring seamless continuity, while the founder and president, Magno Nascimento, will remain an influential board member of the company.
"Our ownership in Climatempo has facilitated the integration and advancement of weather-related technological know-how, empowering us to deliver innovative and more customer-centric solutions,” says Søren Andersen (pictured), CEO of StormGeo. “Our collaboration has already yielded impressive results, and we are excited about the continued growth opportunities not only in Brazil but throughout Latin America.”
“Together with StormGeo, Climatempo has grown significantly through agile and innovative weather intelligence products,” says Magno Nascimento. “The next logical step is further integration between the two companies so that our joint product offering can benefit all clients, be it in Brazil, Latin America, or globally.”
Increasing the shareholding in Climatempo will enable StormGeo to better serve its customers in Brazil and neighboring countries with its solutions for weather intelligence and operational decision support, broadening the company's network and market across Latin America.
"Our further investment in Climatempo gives us momentum to grow and move forward with a wide range of B2B solutions and services across multiple industries in South America," says Søren. “This engagement will further allow StormGeo to expand its capabilities and provide customers with even more advanced, accurate, and localized weather intelligence solutions.
The transaction is a significant milestone for both companies and highlights their commitment to providing innovative solutions to clients in the weather intelligence industry.
Zeaborn transforms fleet operations with ShipIn’s AI-powered FleetVision platform
ShipIn Systems has announced that Zeaborn Ship Management, a third-party ship manager based in Hamburg and Singapore, will implement the company’s visual fleet management platform, FleetVision™, across a large part of its diverse vessel portfolio.
With operations in various locations across Europe and Asia to represent shipowners, Zeaborn wants to take a unified approach to enhance transparency, efficiency and drive better outcomes. The decision to implement ShipIn System’s digital platform onboard Zeaborn-managed vessels aims to add value to existing safety and operational compliance, as well as support overall performance goals.
ShipIn’s patented FleetVision™ solution delivers visual data in near real-time, which is shared seamlessly between ship and shore, providing actionable insights into areas such as Bridge conduct, safety, security, cargo handling, and maintenance across all fleet operations. This is achieved by harnessing AI-powered cameras and visual analytics to assist onboard and on-shore teams in identifying hazards, removing obstacles, and gathering information to create processes that prevent future issues from occurring.
Stefan Schindler, Senior Vice President Projects and Performance of Zeaborn Ship Management, noted: “After an intensive operational pilot phase on board different vessel types, we’re thrilled to partner with ShipIn, with the ultimate target to implement FleetVision™ across our managed fleet. ShipIn has already added significant value to our organization, and we strongly believe this solution will improve transparency, safety, and security, thus improving overall operations for our entire fleet.
"Furthermore, safety is a part of our DNA and value proposition. The safety of our workforce and the continuous training of various critical safety situations on board, including new tools and software, is also a part of our ESG strategy as a responsible third-party ship manager. FleetVision™ gives us the opportunity to enhance the safety awareness of our most important asset, our colleagues on board, on a real case basis.”
Osher Perry, CEO and Co-Founder of ShipIn Systems, added: “Seafarers’ workload is continuously increasing, without the tools necessary to help them do their jobs efficiently and safely. ShipIn bridges that gap by providing a single platform for crew, managers and owners to collaborate on the same information in real time. We’re delighted that Zeaborn recognizes the value of our platform, and we look forward to a fruitful, long-lasting collaboration.”
With AI-powered cameras and real-time visual analytics, FleetVision™ translates tens of thousands of hours of footage per vessel each month into real-time intelligence that shapes behavior onboard – increasing safety, reducing risk, and enhancing productivity. In addition to operational insight, the analytics dashboard centralizes all data so that there is a consistent source of information for performing remote audits and benchmarking performance to help track ROI.
Wilson chooses Seaber to digitalise fleet scheduling
Finnish maritime technology company Seaber has announced a cooperation with Norway-based Wilson EuroCarriers. Seaber’s innovative technology will enable the digitalisation of Wilson’s fleet scheduling, helping to improve efficiency as well as reducing costs and emissions.
Seaber’s intelligent technology solution for data-led decision support optimises fleet scheduling and maximises TCE, improving profitability and bringing down the environmental impact of shipping. In addition to single cargo voyages, Seaber supports multi-parcel and multi-port voyages, where unnecessary ballast voyages and low utilisation rates are common.
The technology, based on a modern tech stack, integrates seamlessly with existing software solutions such as ERPs and Voyage management systems.
Wilson welcomes the cooperation as enabling it to become a more efficient choice for cargo owners. “Our aim is to move cargo safely, on time, and maximise efficiency and sustainability of European sea transport,” says Jostein Bjørgo (pictured, right), Commercial Director at Wilson. “We were looking for software solutions that could support our mission and believe that Seaber is the best tool to help us further digitalise our operations. It is important for us to improve collaboration and the service we provide to our customers.
“This is a pioneer project and we expect to set a new standard for how the entire industry manages scheduling in the future.”
The web-based application is designed for both shipowners and cargo owners, allowing them to maximise efficiencies in schedule planning and communications. With Seaber, stakeholders can collaborate in this dynamic industry in real time, with each maintaining total control of the information being shared.
Sebastian Sjöberg (pictured, left), CEO and Co-founder of Seaber is excited about collaborating with Wilson: “Seaber integrates with existing technologies used by Wilson and makes the planners’ work easier and more efficient. Replacing spreadsheets means less planning mistakes with improved data ergonomics, data integration and automation. This ultimately leads to reduced costs and emissions via better utilisation of the fleet.”
He continues: “It’s great to see Wilson taking this step, so they are better positioned when industry changes happen and new regulations emerge.”
With a fleet of about 130 vessels in the range of 1500-8500 DWT, Wilson is one of the largest short sea shipping companies in Europe. As a fully integrated shipping company it handles everything in-house, chartering and operations, ship management, marine accounting, crewing, purchasing, legal and insurance. Wilson’s head office is in Bergen, Norway with branch offices strategically located in Europe.
Seamless verification of vessel data - Coach Solutions integrates with Veracity by DNV
Coach Solutions, a leading provider of maritime data solutions, and Veracity, the independent maritime cloud platform from DNV, have partnered to deliver an automated data verification process for their joint customers. Together, the partners create a seamless experience for ship owners and managers who need to extract, standardize, verify, and liberate vessel data for confident use across the value chain.
Coach Solutions delivers vessel data services to vessels and customers, providing easy-to-use and reliable software solutions that transfer validated data into actionable insights. The integration with the DNV built cloud platform Veracity, is a strategic partnership that will further strengthen Coach’s abilities to deliver on the promise to its customers.
Anders Bruun, CEO, Coach Solutions said: "Being integrated with Veracity by DNV and being able to offer our clients a fully automated process for having their data flow directly from Coach into DNV’s emissions data verification services is a big step forward in our aim to reduce manual workloads for our clients. With this integration, our clients can keep focusing on taking action on their data, making shipping more sustainable and reducing their CO2 footprint."
One of the common customers for Coach and DNV is the world’s largest operator of product and chemical tankers; Hafnia Ltd. Operating over 230 vessels and with a will to push the industry forward, towards responsible and transparent maritime energy transportation, Hafnia is clear on the need for having trustworthy emissions data readily available.
“Having verified emissions data is no longer a competitive advantage but a pre-requisite for doing business”, said Jørgen Thuesen, VP Technical Newbuildings & Projects from Hafnia. “We already know that operational vessel data will be crucial to correctly calculate emissions tax allowances and we also see increased requirements from our business partners to access the data for various use-cases.”
“We are therefore very pleased that Coach, our vessel performance management partner across our whole fleet is now integrated with DNVs data platform Veracity. It provides us with a seamless data transfer and verification process from the vessels and into our systems. This reduces risk and increases trust and efficiency within Hafnia and towards our business partners.”
Coach Solutions is the latest vessel data provider to be added to the fast-growing network of Veracity integrated partners, making it easier for customers to access verified data that they can use and re-use for multiple requirements.
“We are very glad to announce the integration between Coach Solutions and the Veracity cloud platform,” said Mikkel Skou, Executive Director Veracity by DNV. “Together we can offer customers a seamless journey from raw data onboard the vessel to verified data in the cloud. This lets our common customers enjoy trustworthy data without having to do any coding themselves – and they can easily plug it into their own systems or use our data management tools.”
ITIC appoints Jeff Woyda as new Chairman
International Transport Intermediaries Club (ITIC) - a mutual insurer which provides professional indemnity cover for transport intermediaries operating in the marine, offshore, renewable and aviation industries - has appointed Jeff Woyda as its new Chairman.
Woyda (pictured) is taking over from Lars Säfverström, who has been in post since 2019 and a board member since 2009.
Jeff Woyda said: "I would like to thank Lars for all his hard work navigating ITIC through the pandemic, Brexit and its response to the war in Ukraine. Despite the challenging times, as a mutual insurer we have been able to continue to pay consistently high levels of continuity credits at renewal. The organisation is going from strength to strength, having achieved record levels of new business during Lars’ tenure.
“Our key areas of focus going forward are to extend our position as market leader in maritime transport services, providing extensive cover and outstanding service to all our members, whilst also further expanding into the aviation professional indemnity sector."
Lars Säfverström added: "Jeff brings a wealth of experience and knowledge to this position and he will undoubtedly be a great asset to ITIC as Chairman. Jeff will play an important role continuing to deliver on ITIC’s strategic plans whilst maintaining the excellent health of the club."
Woyda has been an ITIC board member since 2014 and is Chief Operating Officer & Chief Financial Officer at Clarkson PLC.
His career has spanned both publicly listed and private companies, as well as regulated industries. Woyda's position at shipbroker Clarksons includes Strategy, Finance, IT, Legal, HR and Marketing, and he is the board member responsible for ESG. He is also the Chairman of Maritech, the SaaS provider of the Sea/ platform.
Before joining Clarksons, Woyda spent 13 years at the Gerrard Group PLC, where he was a member of the executive committee and Chief Operating Officer of GNI. He began his career with KPMG and is a Fellow of the Institute of Chartered Accountants.
James Fisher Subtech boosts UK offshore capabilities with seasonal charter of IRM and construction vessel
James Fisher Subtech (JF Subtech), provider of specialist technical marine support to the renewables, oil and gas, civil works and salvage markets and part ofbilities James Fisher and Sons plc, has signed a charter agreement with Østensjø Rederi AS for the exclusive use of its inspection, repair and maintenance (IRM) and construction vessel, Edda Savanah (pictured).
The agreement will see the vessel mobilised from April 2023 for work in both the North and Irish Seas on IRM projects for JF Subtech’s customers, utilising remotely operated vehicles (ROVs) and multiple diving methods, two of JF Subtech’s core capabilities.
The charter comes as the UK’s offshore energy industry faces supply chain crunches, allowing JF Subtech to be agile and responsive to customers’ changing needs at a time when vessel availability within the industry is constrained. The Edda Savanah will provide a valued and stable cost base for JF Subtech’s new and existing customer base.
Following the successful performance of the Deep Cygnus in 2022, the agreement with Norwegian vessel operator Østensjø Rederi AS further builds JF Subtech’s UK offshore capabilities for 2023, and demonstrates the Group’s commitment to providing solutions to the energy market.
A highly adaptable vessel that allows for a variety of configurations, the Edda Savanah will be fitted with a James Fisher-owned work class ROV, observation class ROVs and an air dive spread, as well as benefitting from a 150-tonne crane that will allow JF Subtech to deliver a full suite of capabilities. Ensuring the safety of operations in the face of prevailing North Sea conditions, the Edda Savanah has also been equipped with a daughter craft, ideally located in the centre of the vessel to increase stability during launch and recovery.
The Edda Savanah was built in 2017 and is currently undergoing internal reconfiguration, which will be completed by the end of March. She measures around 97m in length with DP2 capabilities, and an onboard capacity for 100 passengers while remaining SPS compliant.
Mike Bailey, Asset and Operations Director at JF Subtech, said: “James Fisher Subtech is proud to be able to continue to support the UK offshore energy sector with the confirmation of the Edda Savanah for the 2023 season. It’s important to us that we play our role in ensuring the self-sufficiency of the sector and having all the necessary equipment ready to go from the start means we’re able to mitigate some of the price and supply chain challenges that the industry is currently facing.
“Furthermore, this agreement means we can continue to pass on the commercial benefits to our customers, and ensure all of our operations are as efficient as possible, reducing mobilisation time and cost.”
The Edda Savanah will be mobilised from April 2023, with potential opportunity for use by other James Fisher group companies during the season.
KVH TracNet wins Editors’ Choice in Best Elex Awards
Four leading titles in leisure marine media - Boating, Yachting, Cruising World, and Salt Water Sportsman - awarded KVH Industries, Inc. (Nasdaq: KVHI) and its groundbreaking TracNet™ hybrid connectivity terminals “Editors’ Choice” in the third-annual Best Elex Awards. The program honors exceptional electronics and technology in the leisure marine industry.
Two of the eight judges awarded a perfect score to KVH’s TracNet hybrid solution. David Schmidt, electronics editor of Yachting magazine, stated, “The most impressive feature is the antennas’ ability to seamlessly jump between cellular, Wi-Fi and VSAT networks, all with the lowest-cost routing and user experience in mind.”
The TracNet product line features three terminals: the ultra-compact 37 cm TracNet H30, the compact 60 cm TracNet H60, and the 1-meter TracNet H90. The innovative terminals feature integrated satellite, cellular, and Wi-Fi technology with intelligent, automatic switching to keep boats connected to the best available communication option. The product line is the first to offer a fully integrated hybrid maritime solution of this type, utilizing an algorithm that assesses factors such as availability, cost, and quality of data connection to continually deliver the best performance. Single-cable install, tuned reflectors, multi-axis stabilization, stabilized skew, digital IMUs, and a commercial-grade rotary joint with continuous azimuth facilitates seamless connectivity in both calm and challenging conditions. Boaters enjoy outstanding connectivity at the dock, underway, offshore, and during ocean crossings.
Mark Woodhead, Executive Vice President of Sales and Marketing at KVH, states, “We are delighted to be recognized in the Best Elex award program. KVH’s TracNet hybrid product line introduced in July 2022, delivered a new standard for connectivity and reliability for all types of leisure boats worldwide. We appreciate the judges’ recognition of our focus on user experience and seamless, intelligent switching. We’re proud to offer a solution that allows boaters to be always connected.”
Leisure boats and yachts with KVH ONETM and TracNet on board enjoy 276 million sq. km (106+ million sq. miles) of satellite coverage using KVH’s global, layered HTS network, powered by Intelsat. The network offers VSAT speeds as fast as 20/3 Mbps (down/up). Subscribers also enjoy integrated support for 5G/LTE cellular service in 150+ countries as well as the flexibility to add user-supplied SIM cards for local service. Plus, TracNet terminals can connect to shore-based Wi-Fi networks using the integrated Wi-Fi bridge for additional speed and cost-saving benefits.
Award launched to recognise talent in supply chain security
Specialist international freight transport insurer TT Club is teaming up with the Transported Asset Protection Association’s (TAPA) Europe, Middle East & Africa (EMEA) region to encourage the next generation of supply chain security professionals to excel. Entries for the first ‘Young Supply Chain Resilience Professional of the Year’ award are now opened until 28 April 2023.
Explaining the motives behind the award, Mike Yarwood TT’s Managing Director, Loss Prevention said, “We wish to identify, inspire and reward young talent in the industry, encouraging them to continue to innovate, communicate with their peers and strive for greater security throughout the supply chain sector.”
The entry process starts on the 6 March and concludes on the 28 April, with judging taking place in May. The winner will be invited to receive their award at TAPA EMEA’s RESILIENCE@RISK Conference in Amsterdam on 14 & 15 June 2023.
Each award entrant is being asked to contribute up to a 1,500 word submission based on a supply chain security related project in which they have been involved, with particular attention to the complexity of the issue, the originality and innovative nature of the solution and successes achieved. The judges, comprised of the TAPA EMEA and TT leadership, will develop an objective scoring matrix in order to determine the finalists and eventual award winner.
Thorsten Neumann, President & CEO of TAPA EMEA emphasises the possible multiple benefits resulting from the awards programme as a whole. “In addition to the encouragement of young talent in our industry, we have aspirations of identifying good practice and innovative supply chain security solutions that we know proliferate internationally across the sector. Our award and the attention it will hopefully attract will have the effect of promoting such activities, sharing them on an industry-wide basis for the benefit of all.”
The application form is available to download from the TAPA EMEA website LINK
Houlder collaborates on ‘Winds of Change’ FastRig retrofit project
UK-based design and engineering consultancy Houlder will participate in the ‘Winds of Change’ project led by Smart Green Shipping (SGS). The project will see an SGS FastRig wing sail retrofitted to a large vessel.
The project recently received funding from the UK Department for Transport as part of the Clean Maritime Demonstration Competition Round 3 (CMDC3) – delivered in partnership with Innovate UK. The collaboration involves the University of Southampton, SGS, Humphreys Yacht Design, Houlder, Malin Group, Caley Ocean Systems, Argo Engineering, Lloyd’s Register, MOL DryBulk and Drax. It will run from April 2023 to 2025.
Houlder’s role will span engineering system integration and vessel performance monitoring. Houlder will initially complete a vessel survey and then study the integration feasibility of the FastRig on the ship, identifying any safety risks and ensuring that regulatory and class society technical requirements are addressed in full. It will further develop the concept design for the integration of the FastRig, before working closely with Malin Group and Caley Ocean Systems on the installation and vessel modifications required.
Subsequently, the Houlder team will support the sea trials and demonstration of the wing sail. Sensors will be installed to monitor the performance of the vessel and its engine throughout operations, both before and after the FastRig has been installed, and when the wing sail is both stowed and active. This monitoring will allow calculation and verification of the power savings, and therefore the fuel and emission savings, available from the FastRig, as well as specific items of technical interest such as leeway angle, heel angle and motion damping due to its presence. The data collection and analysis will also support SGS’s computational simulation requirements.
Arun Pillai, Project Director of Houlder, commented: “At Houlder, we have extensive experience in innovative design and engineering projects with sustainability at their core. We recently interviewed shipowners on maritime clean technology adoption* – and a lack of accurate, verifiable and thorough performance data was a key barrier to commercialisation. Together, we are making sure that the performance data of the innovative FastRig wing sail is useful and dependable.”
Diane Gilpin, CEO of Smart Green Shipping, said: “We are pleased to have received backing from the UK Department for Transport, via CMDC3, for our Winds of Change project. We look forward to continuing to highlight the value and safety of our FastRig wing sail to the shipping industry, particularly as we complete ongoing key project milestones. One such milestone is the calculation and verification of the fuel savings, and resulting emissions reductions, offered by FastRig. We are grateful to have Houlder’s support in this and throughout the project.”
The ‘Winds of Change’ project will act as a testbed and showcase for the FastRig wing sail. Looking ahead, the outcome of this project will be a clean technology with clear, proven safety credentials and processes, as well as verified, thorough data on achievable emissions reductions. The solution can then be deployed across the shipping industry to support the decarbonisation of the global fleet.
The Seafarers’ Charity calls for increased support for the safety and welfare of women seafarers
A new research report released on International Women’s Day shines a spotlight on the welfare needs of women working on cargo ships. The Seafarers’ Charity, a significant funder of maritime welfare services, is now calling on its funded charities to consider increasing their support for women working at sea – especially those working in the male-dominated cargo sector.
The 'Port-Based Welfare Needs of Women Seafarers' by Professor Helen Sampson and Dr Iris Acejo at the Seafarers International Research Centre, Cardiff University was funded by The Seafarers’ Charity. The research reveals women seafarers’ experience of exclusion, isolation and fear of sexual harassment and assault from their male colleagues. In their own words, the 30 women who contributed to the research, describe their experiences of discrimination and harassment from their male colleagues – both those in superior roles, as well as of the same status and subordinate.
The research identifies that women working on cargo ships are likely to require more support from port welfare services because they suffer high levels of fear and loneliness while working in a male-dominated environment at sea. For these women, port welfare services can offer an escape from feeling isolated on board, as well as a friendly face and the potential for external support to address issues with male colleagues.
While the minority status of women seafarers creates the context for many of the problems experienced, it also gives rise to a greater need for support of their welfare and personal safety. Unfortunately, it is regrettable that women’s minority status also contributes to their welfare needs remaining unmet within a sector predominantly focused on supporting the welfare needs of a male workforce.
In supporting and promoting the lessons learned from the research, The Seafarers’ Charity is now calling on the maritime welfare sector to be aware of, and engage with, the welfare needs of women seafarers to ensure they are not overlooked, and their safety is protected.
\The issues raised in the report are set to be considered further by the maritime welfare sector during a webinar hosted in partnership by The Seafarers’ Charity and the International Christian Maritime Association. The webinar on Supporting Welfare of Women Seafarers will take place on April 20th at 2pm GMT.
FUELSAVE trials unlock attractive CO2 & OPEX savings for NOx compliance versus SCR systems
FUELSAVE, a leading developer of fuel-efficient and emissions reduction technology for shipping, has successfully completed trials of a new component for its gas and liquid clean fuel injection system, achieving further emissions reduction for a fraction of the OPEX and space required for current SCR systems.
The German-based company trialled the EGR+, an add-on for its advanced combustion conditioning FS MARINE+ injection system, which enables a ship’s internal combustion engine to go beyond the International Maritime Organization (IMO) Tier III standards for reducing nitrous oxide (NOx) emissions.
The trial results show that the new component can reduce OPEX by up to 8% compared to current selective catalytic reduction (SCR) systems. Not only do the test results provide an attractive alternative for an SCR, they also open the door to significant additional fuel cost savings due to the component’s engine-tuning potential, and to carbon intensity indicator (CII) rating improvements for shipowners and operators.
An SCR injects a urea (carbonic acid) and water mixture into an engine’s exhaust gas stream. The urea reacts with NOx, with a catalyst converting it to nitrogen and water vapour. While SCR after-treatment is an effective choice for NOx reduction, it is costly to run, expensive to install and has a large footprint, making it impractical for many vessels. Until now there were few alternatives for shipowners and operators.
Marc Sima (pictured), CEO and Co-Founder, FUELSAVE, commented: “We are delighted that these trials have confirmed our expectations for the synergies with the FS MARINE+ injection system – going beyond IMO Tier III standards for reducing NOx emissions, while providing OPEX savings and a smaller footprint compared to SCR systems.
“The FS MARINE+ EGR add-on works by incorporating concepts from waste heat recovery and an enhanced exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) with a lower recirculation rate due to the already reduced NOx emissions from the water and methanol injections. The system allows operators to fulfil IMO Tier III compliance standards even at partial engine loads and DP3 operation without the need to additionally support (i.e. heat) the catalytic reaction as required in an SCR system in part loads in many cases This process cuts out the logistical burden, OPEX penalty and higher total cost of ownership (TCO) currently required for an SCR with its urea handling.”
Ships that reduce their NOx emissions receive benefits from major ports including discounts on port dues (around 5-6%), charter preference, reduced costs for classification services and lower insurance premiums.
FS MARINE+ creates a NOx buffer which can be used to optimize engine efficiency by traditional means of optimizing the cylinder pressures and ignition timing. The increase in NOx due to higher temperatures and pressures inside the cylinder is counteracted by the liquid and gaseous injections. FS MARINE+ in combination with an EGR+ add-on further increases this ‘NOx buffer’ – enabling a new emission tier while providing additional optimization potential for further increasing the overall efficiency and cost savings through lowering the fuel consumption.
Castrol Cyltech 40 XDC now available in South Korea, UAE and Japan ahead of global expansion
Castrol has announced today its new marine cylinder oil – Castrol Cyltech 40 XDC (eXtra Deposit Control) – is now available across key shipping hubs in South Korea, the United Arab Emirates (UAE) and Japan, with plans to expand supply globally this year.
Following this latest availability milestone, the new cylinder oil will be rolled out across Hong Kong followed by the Chinese cities of Beilun, Dalian, Fangchang, Qingdao, Rizhao, Shanghai, Taiceng and Yantai.
This expansion is then intended to continue in the next few months into Europe and the USA, including Belgium, the Netherlands, Spain, Gibraltar, the Canary Islands, Los Angles, Houston, New York and New Orleans.
Finally, the cylinder oil is intended to be launched in Singapore and Panama. At this point, based on ongoing analysis of demand worldwide, Castrol will also decide whether to expand availability further, particularly in the rest of the USA and Europe.
Castrol Cyltech 40 XDC is suitable for LNG and methanol-fuelled ships, as well as ships using conventional marine fuels. The cylinder oil can help ship operators transition to alternative fuels – with no compromise on performance.
Regardless of which fuel or technology is chosen by customers to navigate the transition to decarbonisation, Castrol endeavours to ensure that the right lubricant is available worldwide. To achieve this, the company collaborates closely with original equipment manufacturers like MAN Energy Solutions (MAN ES), as well as shipowners and operators to prepare for new and emerging technologies.
Cassandra Higham, Marketing Director, Global Marine and Energy, at Castrol said: “While fuel may be shipping’s current area of focus, it must not be forgotten that fuels and lubricants are intrinsically linked. Any change to either, be that in terms of supply, specification, or type, could have a knock-on effect to the other.”
“Moving towards global availability of Castrol Cyltech 40 XDC is important, as it enables us to support our customers to improve engine reliability, and performance, no matter their location. Castrol Cyltech 40 XDC is a truly market-leading product, creating lower combustion deposits and supporting reliable engine operations,” added Cassandra Higham.
Castrol Cyltech 40 XDC achieved Category II Status from MAN ES in July 2022, having attained a Category II No Objection Letter (NOL) after extensive field testing. MAN ES introduced the new performance category for Mark 9 and above two-stroke engines after these engines were recognised to require cylinder oils with excellent overall performance and a special focus on cleanliness. The new cylinder oil performed equal to or better than a classical 100BN category II reference oil.
Castrol Cyltech 40 XDC is suitable for all MAN ES engine types and is recommended for MAN B&W two-stroke engines Mark 9 and above. There is also no need to alternate between high-BN and low-BN cylinder oils for cleaning-up purposes when it is used, and no need for additional tankage, with one oil for all operations requiring 40BN cylinder oil. This, along with ship operators being able to use one lubricant across their entire MAN fleet, can help simplify marine operations as the external environment becomes more complicated.
MOL and VALE agree to install two Norsepower Rotor Sails to an in-service Capesize bulk carrier
Mitsui O.S.K. Lines (MOL) and Vale International (VALE) have announced a partnership to retrofit a 200,000-ton class bulk carrier, currently employed under a mid–term contract for transportation of iron ore for Vale, with two 35m x 5m rotor sails produced by Finland’s Norsepower.
The installation of the rotor sails is expected in the first half of 2024.
To conclude the agreement VALE, Head of Shipping, Guilherme Brega (pictured, right) and MOL, Senior Managing Executive Officer, Toshinobu Shinoda (left).
The Norsepower Rotor SailTM made of lightweight and strong composite material and with a fully automated control system, produces thrust as the wind generates differential pressure around the slewing rotor while the vessel is sailing.
By applying this solution, the vessel is expected to achieve about 6-10% fuel and GHG emissions reductions, combined with voyage optimisation technology – enabling significant advancements towards decarbonisation goals and reducing fuel consumption.
MOL and VALE say they will continue to work towards both the stable transportation of iron ore and the reduction of GHG emissions.
Shipping will be fundamental to global clean energy transition, ABS chief tells CERAWeek
The ABS Chairman, President and CEO underscored the pivotal role of shipping in driving the global clean energy transition in a series of appearances at the energy industry conference CERAWeek.
Christopher J. Wiernicki told the annual gathering of ministers and CEOs from global energy and utilities, as well as automotive, manufacturing, policy and financial communities, that shipping was the vehicle for the transition, discussing the hydrogen value chain and evaluating alternative fuels as well as industry decarbonization challenges.
“For shipping, the challenge and opportunity lies in two stories: shipping for shipping, which is the decarbonization of our industry and shipping for the world, which highlights shipping’s role as an enabler of the global green energy transition. It is ships that will be carrying the hydrogen molecule either as ammonia or other hydrogen carriers and shipping that will be carrying liquified CO2. Our industry will therefore be fundamental in supporting the emerging hydrogen and carbon value chains,” said Wiernicki.
“The decarbonization of shipping is complex with unique challenges to navigate, let alone predict. It is a multi-dimensional lifecycle hybrid solution with numerous boundary conditions impacted by technology and infrastructure readiness timelines,” he added.
Wiernicki went on to outline the scale of the challenge and shipping’s contribution.
“The biggest challenge we all face in terms of realizing ambitious net zero commitments is the sheer gradient of the curve ahead of us. The pace of the development of hydrogen and carbon value chains is going to be key to managing that curve,” he said.
“The scale and magnitude of the task before us is daunting. It starts with understanding the calculus to get to net zero by 2050. We will need 70 percent zero-carbon e-fuels, which requires 10 times more renewable energy than is currently produced, and 30 percent carbon-neutral fuel, which will require 100 times more carbon capture than we have today – that’s if we are to achieve net zero across the board.
“Ultimately, shipping will be the cornerstone on which all related supply chains will be built. Shipping will be the vehicle for the transition. So, governments must make investments to provide scalability of options and enable commercial first movers.”
Freeport East sets out 500MW Green Hydrogen Hub vision
Freeport East has today published analysis setting out a future scenario for green hydrogen demand that could underpin the development of a Green Hydrogen Hub across its economic area.
Forecasting potential demand in excess of 500MW by 2030, equivalent to 10% of the UK’s current target for green hydrogen production, the report illustrates what a significant role green hydrogen could play in the future Freeport East economy and the significance to the UK.
Steve Beel, Chief Executive at Freeport East commented:
“As Freeport East looks to help drive the regional economy towards net zero in a manner that delivers benefits across our communities, it is clear that hydrogen has the potential to play an important part in delivering on decarbonisation and energy security, while offering unique investment and employment opportunities for our region.
“The East of England is already a clean energy powerhouse of international significance, comprising a range of renewable generation, innovation and R&D facilities but also the deep skills and experience to match.
“Establishing a green hydrogen hub across Freeport East will be good for the region and for the UK and today’s report illustrates the scale of the opportunity. Facilitating a shift towards hydrogen across food processing, agriculture, refineries, public transport, heavy duty freight and shipping will help strengthen these sectors whilst also delivering wider benefits in terms of jobs, skills and a cleaner environment for the whole Freeport East area.”
AMP reaffirms cooperation ties with Finland and the International Maritime Organization
The close relationship and the strengthening of the ties of friendship between the Republic of Panama, represented by the Panama Maritime Authority AMP, and both the Republic of Finland and the IMO have been reaffirmed through official visits made by their
international delegates to the headquarters of the institution.
Panama’s Minister of Maritime Affairs, Noriel Araúz met with Finland’s Vice Minister of Foreign Affairs, Johanna Sumuvuori where the first approaches were made for the future signing of a
Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) that will involve the maritime, port and logistics sectors.
In addition, Finland’s support was requested so that the competency titles issued by the AMP are recognized by the European Union which will mean the facilitation of the hiring of seafarers Panamanian within the European Community, enabling its insertion in any nation that forms part of this community.
For the world's largest Registry of Ships, safe navigation is of vital importance, in this case in the waters of Finland, where a large number of vessels of the Panamanian registry sail, For this reason, it is deemed important to strengthen relations between the two countries through an MOU.
It was also highlighted the importance of a rapprochement with the Maritime Universities of both countries.
In addition, the Secretary General of the IMO, Kitack Lim, made a protocol visit to Panama in order to strengthen relations cooperation ties and bilateral support, was received by the Minister of Maritime Affairs, Noriel Araúz accompanied by his team.
During this meeting, topics of interest to the institution were addressed, in addition to issues of seafarers, the post-pandemic situation, stranded ships in Ukraine, the IMO green agenda, implementation and effectiveness of the ISM Code as well as the next OMI audit of the AMP, the desire for mutual cooperation in different aspects related to agreements, training, regulations
and port development.
The Republic of Panama joined the Council of the IMO for the first time in 1979 and later, with the entry into force in 2002 of the 1993 amendments to the convention Constituent of the Organization, has remained an elected ‘Category A’ member of the Council for 21 consecutive years, to date.
Steerprop strengthens its expertise in the Arctic segment with new appointment
Steerprop, the leading designer and manufacturer of propulsion systems for tough Arctic conditions, has appointed Tom Ekegren as Arctic Segment Director. The appointment further strengthens Steerprop’s expertise in the Arctic market and enhances the company’s resolve to bring the best possible solutions and support to its customers in this segment.
Tom Ekegren (pictured), Master Mariner and Executive MBA, comes to Steerprop from icebreaker owner and operator Arctia Ltd. where he has held various top management roles since 2016, the most recent being the position of Global Chartering Sales and Operations Manager. He is a seasoned professional in icebreaking, Arctic, and offshore multi-purpose operations, bringing more than 25 years of experience to Steerprop’s already strong team of Arctic experts.
In his new role as Arctic Segment Director at Steerprop, Mr Ekegren will be responsible for developing the sales and lifecycle solutions of Steerprop’s Arctic business area.
“Tom’s background in operating and managing icebreakers brings a unique experience that will help us at Steerprop to further develop our solutions. With his expertise, our ability to resolve the present and future demands of the icebreaker operations will be considerably enhanced,” says Juho Rekola, Director, Sales and Project Management.
“As we are growing and expanding our organization, further strengthening our expertise in the Arctic segment, we are excited to welcome Tom on board. We are looking forward to the valuable contribution he will bring to our team,” Rekola continues.
”My background has given me the shipowner’s perspective on icebreaking operations in the Arctic, and I’m excited to be able to share this understanding with the Steerprop team while further developing Steerprop’s solutions to serve the customers in the best possible way,” Tom Ekegren says.
METIS Augmented Routing Optimization adds DTN Vessel Routing API to improve quantifiable ship performance gains
METIS Cyberspace Technology has signed a formal agreement with global data, analytics, and technology company DTN®, to integrate its Vessel Routing API into METIS Augmented Routing Optimization, in a new demonstration of the way weather-enhanced decision-making and AI-based analytics deliver measurable gains to ship performance.
Rather than aiming to avoid adverse weather completely, weather-optimized routing helps find the most efficient route available to plan and maintain safe navigation, with the officer of the watch updated with actionable insights and alerts throughout the voyage.
Based on the unique characteristics and specifications of individual ships and their cargoes, both METIS Augmented Routing Optimization and the DTN Vessel Routing API continuously optimize for speed, cost, fuel consumption and emissions. Powered by AI, the integrated analytics cover not only the efficiency of the ship but its changing operating environment: routing optimization can adapt to conditions and to the relationships between different performance parameters.
Integrating weather-optimized decisions with Augmented Routing Optimization delivers a comprehensive analysis of ship performance in real time, so that vessels can respond to the needs of ETA, contracted speeds, bunker consumption or emissions reporting. Onshore, managers can calculate and recalculate routes to optimize schedules, propose route adjustments, and better evaluate voyage performance against charter party expectations.
“With every ship needing to report efficiency and emissions on an individual basis under the International Maritime Organization’s new EEXI and CII regimes, owners, managers and charterers have already entered a new era of accountability,” said Eleni Polychronopoulou (pictured), CEO, METIS. “Rather than simply avoiding ‘unwanted weather’ in a generalised way, this integration of weather-optimized routing from DTN means Augmented Routing Optimization helps ensure the safety of the ship, its crew and its cargo while simultaneously basing routing decisions on optimized performance.”
“Formalising the agreement with DTN is highly significant, because integrating weather-optimized routing functionality with Augmented Routing Optimization changes what is achievable for ship performance,” added Andreas Symeonidis, Marketing & Partner Relations Manager, METIS Cyberspace Technology. “Just as METIS analytics optimize performance for machinery, hull fouling and damages, maintenance and repairs, fuel oil and crew skills on each and every vessel, Augmented Routing Optimization can now adapt to weather conditions.”
Including all variables in a single interface to choose the ‘best route’ is highly beneficial to ship safety, as well as for efficiency and emissions, Symeonidis emphasised.
Hempel joins IMO public-private partnership to help prevent biofouling on ships’ hulls
Coatings company Hempel A/S has increased its commitment to supporting the maritime industry’s shift to ever more sustainable operations by joining the Global Industry Alliance (GIA) for Marine Biosafety.
The GIA, created under the IMO’s GloFouling Partnerships project, is a cross-sectoral platform for collaboration. Following Hempel’s membership, the GIA comprises 13 private companies that work with governments, the IMO and other non-governmental organisations to increase awareness of the environmental implications and risks associated with biofouling on ships hulls, identify common issues, and foster solutions for mitigation. The alliance also informs policy developments and shares technical expertise within NGOs.
“At Hempel, we are very pleased to be joining the Global Industry Alliance for Marine Biosafety,” says Alexander Enström (pictured), Executive Vice President and Head of Marine. “We believe that strong collaboration between all stakeholders - governments, NGOs and the maritime industry - is needed to identify challenges and accelerate solutions to decarbonise the maritime industry and protect marine environments.
“As a provider of hull performance solutions that can help prevent the build-up of invasive species on hulls, as well as reduce the fuel usage and carbon emissions of ships, we look forward to taking part in this collaboration,"
Biofouling on ships’ hulls can affect the environment in two ways. Ships sailing across different regions can facilitate the unintentional spread of invasive aquatic species, one of five largest threats to marine biodiversity. Further, biofouling build-up on a ship’s hull creates drag and can significantly reduce efficiency levels as more fuel is required to propel the vessel through the water.
Members of the GIA include marine coatings companies, in-water cleaning service providers and marine growth preventive systems, shipping companies and technical organisations. The International Association of Oil & Gas Producers also has observer status within the group.
The GIA was set up as a public-private partnership by the GloFouling Partnerships project in June 2020. The Project is part of the wider efforts undertaken by IMO, in collaboration with the Global Environment Facility (GEF) and the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), to protect marine ecosystems from the negative effects of invasive species.
The programme is also in line with the IMO strategy to reduce greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions from shipping by at least 50% by 2050. By limiting biofouling on a ship’s hull, GHG emissions are reduced and operational efficiencies can be achieved.
US ro-ro operators Liberty and ARC partner with Orca AI
Maritime technology company Orca AI has secured deals with US ro-ro operators Liberty Maritime Corporation (Liberty) and American Roll-On Roll-Off Carrier (ARC) to deploy its automated situational awareness platform across their respective fleets. Liberty was one of the early collaborators with Orca AI, deploying the first Orca AI unit on a US flag ro-ro vessel (Liberty Pride) in 2019.
The platform, which is installed on Liberty’s ro-ro vessels and on ARC’s entire fleet, acts as a fully automatic watch-keeper, powered by computer vision and deep learning algorithms that detect, track and classify navigation-applicable targets that may pose a risk to the vessel.
It is operational 24/7, prioritises risk and presents it in a user-friendly interface. An office dashboard also highlights potential high-risk events, providing the operations teams ashore with insights and recommendations that help them to enhance the safety of their fleets.
Fred Finger, SVP of Operations of American Roll-On Roll-Off Carrier (ARC), commented: “ARC is pleased to have added Orca AI to our suite of bridge resource tools. This technology brings an additional level of situational awareness to assist our bridge teams in their decision-making process.”
“We were looking for a solution that allows our operations team and masters to optimise vessel safety while adhering to vessel schedule requirements,” said Joshua M. Shapiro, COO of Liberty Maritime Corporation. “We chose to partner with Orca AI to enhance the safety of our operations and to provide our fleet management team a more in- depth understanding of how our ro-ro vessels are performing under various navigational conditions.”
Commenting on the deal with ARC and Liberty, Yarden Gross, CEO and Co-Founder of Orca AI, said: "We are excited to work with Liberty and ARC, two of the US’ leading ro-ro operators and innovation- driven companies, who understand that technology is a key enabler of safer and more operationally efficient shipping operations.”
ARC provides port-to-port and end-to-end transport of heavy vehicles, helicopters, household goods, privately-owned vehicles and other equipment for the US government and its various agencies. The ro-ro operator also carries agricultural and construction equipment for developing nations.
New York-based Liberty is a ship management company whose services include vessel operations, chartering and maintenance; engineering and technical; crew training and placement; and cargo loading, handling and discharge. The company’s ro-ro vessels transport vehicles, cars and trucks, heavy equipment and machinery and specialised cargo.
Maritime UK launches landmark Offshore Wind Plan
Maritime UK has launched its comprehensive and ground-breaking Offshore Wind Plan at the Offshore Renewable Energy (ORE) Catapult’s Operations & Maintenance Centre of Excellence in Grimsby, with the support of Associated British Ports.
The Offshore Wind Plan makes a series of recommendations for how the maritime sector, the offshore wind sector, and governments can work together to deliver maximum economic benefit from the growth of offshore wind across the maritime supply chain in sectors like ports, shipbuilding, crewing and professional services.
Opportunities identified in the Offshore Wind Plan include building vessels in the UK to support developments and further growing UK ports as centres for manufacturing and assembly for offshore developments.
In partnership with Renewable UK, the trade association for wind power, wave power and tidal power industries in the UK, the launch of the Offshore Wind Plan will also see the birth of a new partnership between the Maritime and Renewable sectors, bringing industry partners and government departments together to focus on delivering the plan’s recommendations.
The launch event at ORE Catapult’s Operations & Maintenance Centre of Excellence in Grimsby saw the maritime and renewables industry come together to identify priority areas for collaboration to ensure the rapid growth in offshore wind is delivering good jobs and economic growth across the UK.
ORE Catapult estimates that 149 Surface Operation Vessels (SOVs) will be needed to serve rapidly expanding offshore wind developments in Europe by 2030, and up to 309 by 2050. The ports sector has a well-established capability to support the offshore green energy sector. The UK’s bold growth ambition for floating offshore wind provides a transformational opportunity to turbo charge the investment and good jobs the sector enables.
Commenting on the launch of the Offshore Wind Plan, Maritime UK Chair Robin Mortimer, said: “The maritime sector already plays a key role in our collective efforts to deliver a cleaner and more sustainable future by the middle of this century.
“Maritime UK’s Offshore Wind Plan sets out how delivering energy security through growing offshore wind can drive economic growth and job creation across the country through the maritime supply chain.
“With its people, expertise, equipment and infrastructure, the maritime sector is present throughout the lifecycle of offshore wind and is uniquely placed to deliver well-paid, high-quality jobs and new industries, particularly in coastal towns and cities.”
Key recommendations and proposals within the plan include:
• Creating quality career pathways for young people
• Rewarding higher UK supply chain content in offshore wind projects
• Reforming the planning system to enable green projects to be delivered quicker
• Encouraging lenders and investors to finance infrastructure and vessels
Renewable UK’s Director of Offshore Wind Jane Cooper said: “This plan will enable the offshore wind industry to work even more closely with our colleagues in the maritime sector on maximising the massive economic opportunities we’re offering, creating tens of thousands of high-quality jobs and attracting billions in private investment over the course of this decade.
“To reach the Government’s target of 50 gigawatts of offshore wind by 2030, the offshore wind and maritime sectors will need to work collaboratively with aligned objectives to transform and rejuvenate ports around the country, enabling us to manufacture and assemble state-of-the-art turbines and other infrastructure at quayside locations. This will create further opportunities for vessels to help us to install vital new projects, including innovative floating turbines further out to sea. There’s a natural synergy between our sectors which we’re keen to enhance as we move forward together”.
Andy Reay, Head of Offshore Wind for Associated British Ports, commented: “Associated British Ports is proud to support the launch of Maritime UK’s Offshore Wind Plan. Our ports, such as Grimsby – the world’s largest offshore wind Operations and Maintenance port – demonstrate how offshore wind can catalyse investment and high quality job growth, an impact that should be hugely boosted by the new generations of floating offshore wind.
“Delivering the Offshore Wind Plan’s recommendations and a partnership approach both between supply chain players and industry and governments will be key to achieving the environmental and economic opportunities for the UK.”
DP World’s Pusan terminal to debut commercial use of BOXBAY high-bay storage system
DP World has announced the first commercial use of the revolutionary BOXBAY high-bay storage system at its terminal in Pusan, South Korea. A contract between Pusan Newport Corporation (PNC) and Boxbay FZCO – a joint venture of DP World and German plant technology supplier, SMS group – initiating the design and engineering works for the site was signed by representatives of all parties concerned at Jebel Ali on March 8.
DP World has developed BOXBAY in a joint venture with SMS, who originally created the storage system to handle heavy metal coils. Having proven the technology in the metals industry, it was refined for port logistics. In January 2021 DP World and SMS built a pilot facility at Jebel Ali’s Terminal-4 (pictured) and by the end of June 2022, 190,000 container movements had been carried out under realistic operating conditions to verify the market maturity of the system.
PNC already operates one of the highest performing container terminals in Asia, and the addition of BOXBAY’s technology will allow PNC to boost its efficiency even further.
The BOXBAY high-bay storage technology will be seamlessly integrated along with the existing mode of ARMG/truck operations as a retrofit on an existing empty storage area. The system allows direct access to each container at any time, eliminating 350,000 unproductive moves per year. This will improve the overall truck servicing time by 20 percent, further improving PNC service delivery to its customers.
BOXBAY is fully automated with additional safety features built in. DP World also intends to power it by using solar power, generated by photovoltaic panels on the roof of the storage system, complementing DP World’s drive to decarbonise operations.
Sultan Ahmed Bin Sulayem, Group Chairman and CEO of DP World, said: “If we were to imagine the future of trade, this is where it begins. We have taken a technology that has proven its effectiveness in the metals industry in Germany and further transformed it to create BOXBAY, an innovative container storage system to enhance global trade.
“Our pilot scheme in Jebel Ali has already shown the advantages of a fully automated, sustainably powered high-bay storage system. I’m proud that DP World has led this innovation that will now be adopted in Pusan. The technology reflects our continuous efforts to embrace technologies that enhance the flow of trade and further enhances Dubai’s position as a global leader in the ports and logistics industry.”
Tiemen Meester, COO Ports & Terminals, DP World, said: “We have long invested in new and innovative technology that will improve and modernise our ports and terminals. It’s a tremendous step forward to announce our first commercial use of BOXBAY.
“The PNC terminal is an exemplary operation that is already technologically advanced and forward focused. With the introduction of the BOXBAY high-bay storage system, we will be able to better serve our customers while keeping our people safe and cutting carbon emissions from the environment.”
Glen Hilton, CEO & Managing Director, DP World Asia Pacific & Australasia, said: “We are delighted to see this technology implemented first at one of our terminals. Safety, sustainability and efficiency are huge drivers for our business. We look forward to working with the PNC and BOXBAY teams to implement this system without any interruption to our current services.”
DP World has a 66% stake in PNC, which handled 5.3 million TEUs in 2021. PNC operates in Pusan port, which is the 10th largest in the world.
IMO event in Panama highlights role of sustainable shipping in supporting blue economy development
IMO co-hosted a side event during the Our Ocean Conference in Panama City earlier this month. Its theme was "Supporting Blue Economies through Sustainable Maritime Transport (BE SMART): Building Global Partnerships to address Climate Change and Marine Pollution through IMO's Voyage Together Initiative".
The event highlighted the role of international shipping in supporting blue economy development and, in addressing challenges related to global climate change, biodiversity protection and marine pollution, and was co-hosted by Maritime Technologies Cooperation Centre (MTCC) Latin America. It provided an overview of IMO's partnerships efforts through its Voyage Together Initiative and long-term technical cooperation projects on Maritime Decarbonization and Ocean Conservation, including the Global Maritime Technology Centre Network (GMN), GreenVoyage2050, GloFouling Partnerships and GloLitter Partnerships.
Opening the side event, Mr. Arsenio Dominguez, Director of IMO's Marine Environment Division, called for everyone to work together towards a sustainable and prosperous ocean economy and to ensure no one is left behind.
"Protecting our oceans is essential to ensuring a sustainable future for our planet. IMO's work in regulating shipping, promoting decarbonisation and driving sustainable ocean conservation, is critical", he said.
The side event was attended by several high-level policy makers from around the world including Ms. Anne Beathe Tvinnereim, Norwegian Minister of International Development. In a keynote speech she said she was encouraged by IMO’s scaling up of its environmental partnership programmes to support developing countries.
“This is important to ensure the needed results in global climate action and environmental protection. It is also important to develop a sustainable ocean economy in developing countries”, she stated.
Also discussed during the event were technological and regulatory challenges facing MTCCs in Latin America and the Caribbean; and other long term IMO projects including GreenVoyage2050 implementation in Belize; GloFouling; and GHG SMART.
More innovative O&M vessel options needed for under pressure offshore wind: BAR Technologies
Faced with ongoing cost pressure and a growing skills gap, the offshore wind sector needs to rethink its approach to vessel procurement for deep water O&M (Operation and Maintenance) campaigns. In particular, the industry needs to overcome its reliance on ‘traditional’ vessel options, such as SOVs (Service Operation Vessels), when moving into the long-term operational phase, according to innovative, simulation-driven marine engineering consultancy, BAR Technologies (BAR).
BAR, which has recently launched the BARTech 50 (pictured) - a new low emission hull form design capable of long-distance offshore transfer - has pointed to the cost reduction and efficiency gains that can be made by chartering smaller SATVs (Service, Accommodation and Transfer Vessels) and CTVs (Crew Transfer Vessels) to cover O&M requirements.
At present the investment case for an SOV is approximately three times that for a CTV or SATV hull design, with the smaller vessels offering commensurately lower running costs. Similarly, the build schedule for an SOV may take up to several years, versus twelve months for a CTV or SATV.
Furthermore, the operational profile of SATVs and CTVs lends itself to more flexible conditions for engineers and vessel crews. As the industry seeks to address a skills shortage and bring on board new talent, it’s essential that it can provide attractive working conditions to technicians and seafarers alike.
“Despite the exponential growth of global offshore wind, and its undeniable future importance to decarbonised electricity, it is also an industry under enormous pressure,” said John Cooper, Chief Executive Officer, BAR Technologies.
“However, there are a number of ways that we can alleviate the cost pressures that, at present, new make investment cases harder. Indeed, some of our quickest wins can come from an evolution in vessel use in operations and maintenance activity, where we seem to be focussed on following an oil and gas programme of large vessels, likely carrying an excess of capacity needed for the task, working offshore for weeks on end.”
“It’s our belief at BAR that while SOVs will never be replaced in construction, we can do things differently in operations and maintenance, reducing costs with low-emission hull forms utilised for either SATVs, or longer range CTVs.”
“And, if we’re to secure the interest of the next generation of offshore wind engineers, we must do so in a way that offers twenty-first century working practices. This should be shaped around the flexibility of being able to offer shore return either daily or weekly.”
The Maritime Skills Academy announces new 3-year training partnership with Red Funnel
The UK-based Maritime Skills Academy is proud to announce a new 3-year training partnership with Red Funnel, operator of Isle of Wight ferries, and welcomes them as the first users of their second full-mission 270-degree bridge simulator.
This second simulator features Wartsila/Transaa NTPRO software and is capable of recreating any scenario using an extensive library of ship models and port areas. The team will continue to recreate realistic ‘live’ situations and challenges, in a safe and controlled environment.
The expansion of the MSA’s training facilities will accommodate training courses including Ship Handling, Bridge Resource Management and Bridge Watch Keeping, as well as assessments, port research, and accident investigation. This substantial investment now doubles the MSA’s training capacity.
The MSA are also thrilled to announce the new partnership with Red Funnel, one of the UK's leading ferry operators, to enhance their team's performance and safety. Red Funnel will be joining the portfolio of clients including Carnival UK, Windstar Cruises, P&O Ferries and Virgin Voyages who currently train in the state-of-the-art facilities in Portsmouth.
Leanna Lakes, Operations Director at Red Funnel said: “The bridge resource management (BRM) courses are focused on standardising our procedures and ensuring our deck officers and deck crew continue to develop their expertise. It’s a world-leading facility and the team at MSA have worked with us to create a bespoke BRM course that reflects our procedures and area of operation. Our team will benefit greatly from this new simulator and the variety of exercises available, which are vital to keep our crew and passengers safe on their journeys with Red Funnel.”
Director of Training and Simulation at the MSA, Captain Josip Kulas said: “At MSA Portsmouth, we are dedicated to improving the safety and effectiveness of maritime operations through innovative training methods. Red Funnel’s team of professionals are highly skilled and experienced, but as with any complex and high-risk industry, continuous improvement is vital. We will assist their team to develop and practice their situation awareness, communication, decision-making and teamwork skills.”
Josip continued: “Red Funnel BRM training scenarios will combine high-speed craft operations and car ferries as a part of the same exercise. The scenarios are placed in Red Funnel’s ships usual routes, replicating their day-to-day operations, but of course with added challenges. We are honoured to be part of this cooperation and look forward to the positive impact this collaboration will have on the maritime industry as a whole.”
WISTA Norway launches '40 by 30' workshop report and welcomes new board members
WISTA Norway released the first workshop report from its '40 by 30' initiative to promote female executive recruitment in the ocean industries at its recent successful AGM, where three new board members were also elected.
“At our recent AGM, we welcomed three new board members: Therese Landås from the Norwegian Maritime Authority, Karolina Mevold from Fender Marine and Agnes Mathiesen from VIKAND Medical Solutions,” says Stine Mundal, WISTA Women's International Shipping & Trading Association Norway President.
“We also want to thank Adenike Bridget Knudsen, Agnieszka Sledz and Caroline Whittle for their great contributions to the board over the past years,” she adds.
Among the participants at the event was Birgit Liodden, founder of The Ocean Opportunity Lab (TOOL). She spoke both about her work to achieve greater diversity at leadership level and the upcoming SHE Conference where the official launch of the Global female candidate pool will be at the OCEAN Stage. The Global female candidate pool is an initiative TOOL has together with WISTA and partners.
In addition, there was a TOOL Female Candidate Pool pre-Kick-off and Equality Night in Oslo in January featuring Norwegian Minister of Culture and Equality Anette Trettebergstuen, WISTA Norway President Stine Mundal and members of the WISTA Norway board.
The '40 by 30' campaign, launched a year ago on International Women's Day in 2022, aims to secure pledges to achieve its ambition of having 40 percent of leadership positions filled by women by 2030, and has gained significant traction among Norwegian leaders in the ocean industries.
A series of workshops are being run by the campaign and the report from the first of these, which was presented at the AGM in February, highlights the barriers and possible solutions to achieving gender equality in the ocean industries identified by '40 by 30' signatories.
The report explores which solutions are considered viable to overcome these barriers across critical areas of measurement, awareness, culture, and programs and policies.
It outlines the views of workshop participants on the challenges they have faced in attracting and retaining female talent, and the best practices that have worked for them. The report also describes actions that companies can take and points to resources to help them work towards a more diverse future. The report is available at https://wistanorway.no/wista-norway-40-by-30-pledge/
Workshop participant Hans Christian Seim, CEO of Norwegian Hull Club, says: “At Norwegian Hull Club, we say that ‘the difference is the people' – and we understand that people are incredibly different.
"As an employer, this really is exciting and an absolute bonus. But in order to bring out the very best from such a diverse pool of potential talent, we may have to do things a bit differently: to be more open and agile when it comes to processes such as recruitment, promotion, and career planning. Here, we’ve got to be curious about whether there may in fact be a better way of doing things."
Feedback, insights and findings from the workshop have been collected and compiled by Tom Solberg of Hoegh LNG and Jaquelyn Burton of WISTA Norway.
Burton says: "It is important for us at WISTA Norway to push forward actions that allow our industry to achieve equitable gender balance. Without it, our industry will lose out on talent as it faces its greatest challenges in the years to come."
WISTA Norway is seeking to create waves of change through collaboration with Tool Spawn, Nor-Shipping, She Conference and many other organizations. Its work aims to ensure that measures for a diverse maritime future, together with the talent it brings, are on the agenda and are part of the action plan across all segments of the ocean industries.
WISTA Norway encourages industry leaders to join WISTA, evaluate their workforce goals and join '40 by 30' by signing the pledge to build together a fair, equitable and sustainable future.
'40 by 30' signatories and WISTA members will be invited to further events to promote collaboration in reaching these goals in connection with She Conference and Nor-Shipping this spring and summer.
Signol pilot project reduces tug fuel usage, saving 478 tons of CO2 emissions
Signol, a software company using behavioural science to cut fuel consumption, operating costs and emissions, has concluded its five-month pilot project with Young Brothers, the freight handling company that transports all ocean cargo between the Hawaiian Islands.
The project, the first of its kind onboard tugboats, sought to leverage big data and behavioural science best practices to nudge Captains to save fuel, thus reducing operating costs and CO2 emissions. The five-month pilot ran from June to October 2022 and was partly sponsored by Elemental Excelerator, the Honolulu-based climate tech accelerator and investor.
Enrolled Captains received personalised goals, motivational reports on their performance and impromptu notifications via email, as well as having access to the Signol web app, where they could review and reflect upon their own individual performance.
During the period Signol was in use, fuel consumption was reduced by 150 MT (39,000 gallons) compared to similar journeys made in the previous year – a significant reduction of approximately 5.45% – equivalent to avoiding the emission of 478 tonnes of CO2. The results were calculated by analysing specific weather-adjusted vessel performance, cargo weight and voyage route to reach a comparison of fuel consumption for each tug-voyage combination year-on-year.
The vast majority of Captains involved in the trial improved their performance, with the most significant gains coming from those toward the bottom of the historic performance bell curve.
The trial highlights the versatility of Signol’s solutions across all segments of the maritime industry, having already proved commercially significant savings on tankers, bulkers and container ships.
Harriet Johnson, Head of Maritime at Signol, said: “As a former mariner myself, I recognise that the behaviour of sailors on board vessels is an important and often overlooked component of vessel performance. Vessel optimisation teams throughout the industry have rightly focussed initially on the performance of the steel through the water, yet can sometimes forget the importance of engaging with and motivating the crew to be proactive around efficiency and carbon emission reduction initiatives.
“Signol offers a friendly, positive and engaging user experience unlike anything previously seen in the industry, which is why we are seeing significant fuel savings from re-energised and enthusiastic mariners.”
"Elemental has been delighted to support Signol's work with Young Brothers,” says Gabriel Scheer, Director of Innovation, Mobility & Energy, Elemental Excelerator. “This partnership demonstrates the potential of Signol's behaviour change technology to support freight handlers around the world in their efforts to decarbonise shipping, as well as demonstrating how behavioural nudges and carbon reductions can also result in cost savings for the company."
The results come as the sector strives to decarbonise in line with the IMO’s 2050 strategy; and once again establishes that behaviour change alone can lead to a material reduction in ships’ energy demand and carbon emissions, whilst also lowering operational costs.
Cargo is key to fair emissions calculations, says SHIPNEXT CEO
A new emissions index has been developed by independent shipping platform SHIPNEXT, in a bid to address widely-held industry concerns about the IMO emissions reduction measures.
According to Alexander Varvarenko (pictured), the Belgium-based shipping and tech entrepreneur, cargo is at the heart of the new SHIPNEXT emissions index, which has been designed for vessels carrying breakbulk, dry bulk, heavy and oversized shipments, and in consultation with ship owners.
The SHIPNEXT Voyage Emission Index (SVEI) is based on the individual technical parameters of the vessel, its speed, consumption and intake, whilst also taking into consideration the actual cargo quantity and the intended voyage.
SVEI considers the ship’s fuel consumption at sea to reflect the work of the particular vessel. Fuel consumption in the port is ignored, since such consumption is comparable for most ships and the time of loading and discharging is determined mainly by port technology, not by the technical capabilities of the vessel.
The SHIPNEXT CII (SCII) is proposed as an alternative to the IMO’s own Carbon Intensity Indicator (CII) rating, which seeks to measure the efficiency of a vessel above 5,000 GT. The IMO also intends to give vessels a performance score between A-D, with criteria becoming increasingly stringent by 2030.
Carriers including Maersk have complained that the IMO CII fails to incentivise cargo optimisation and have instead called for a methodology that rewards more productive vessels. SCII has been designed to do just that.
“The major problem with the existing IMO guidelines is that they do not take into consideration the cargo actually being carried on a voyage,” says Alexander Varvarenko, the CEO and founder of SHIPNEXT. “When you do so, the emissions profile of a given voyage changes completely.”
SHIPNEXT modelling shows how an older, higher emitting ship, if managed properly and laden to full capacity, can prove to be the ‘greener’ solution, when compared to a more modern ship that’s producing more carbon dioxide because it is on a longer voyage.
Adds Varvarenko: “Our approach stimulates owners to manage their vessels more efficiently with fewer ballast runs, while also continuing to follow all the other existing emissions indexes that are imposed on them around vessel construction.
“There has to be logic to how shipping lines are taxed for their emissions. What we are proposing is a fair and reasonable approach during the transition to cleaner shipping, which allows both shippers and carriers to share the costs.”
SCII is now being marketed to SHIPNEXT’s more than 4,500 daily users. More details of the methodology behind SHIPNEXT’s emissions calculations are available on the shipnext.com website.
International Antifouling Conference in Gothenburg to return in 2023
I-Tech AB, the developers of the antifouling biotechnology for marine coatings Selektope®, and RISE (Research Institutes of Sweden) will host the International Antifouling Conference in Gothenburg for a second year following demands for its return as one of the key platforms for antifouling coating experts, academia, and end users to discuss challenges, solutions, and approaches towards marine biofouling prevention.
As the maritime industry takes steps towards significantly decarbonising, the risk of marine biofouling accumulation on underwater surfaces is posing an increasing threat to the reduction of gaseous exhaust emissions from vessels. Marine biofouling can be extremely detrimental to ship performance since it increases hydrodynamic drag when a vessel sails through water, resulting in vessels burning more fuel to maintain a set speed or suffering speed losses if operating on fixed shaft power.
Unfortunately, rising oceanic and coastal water temperatures are providing a more favourable environment for biofouling species to flourish. As such, the risk faced by vessels from the negative effects of biofouling will only intensify in coming years. While antifouling coatings provide the best line of defence against biofouling, the technology must continue to evolve to meet the changing needs of vessels now, and in the future.
Participants of the inaugural International Antifouling Conference in 2022 held the unanimous belief that collaboration between technology providers and their suppliers, in addition to the expansion of the antifouling toolbox to include emerging novel solutions, are key to ensuring that antifouling coating solutions offer the best protection in intensifying biofouling conditions.
Dr. Markus Hoffmann, Technical Director at I-Tech comments: “This conference provides a much-needed platform for the R&D community from the marine coatings sector to meet, with the bonus that academia and end users participate and provide their vital insights. Having a platform to discuss and gain inspiration from learning about novel solutions to ensure coatings are reliable and as high performance as possible is particularly important at this moment in time.”
The International Antifouling Conference 2023 will be held on September 13-14 in the iconic Eriksberg shipyard area in Gothenburg, Sweden. The conference is sponsored by Stena Teknik and Lanxess. Keynote addresses will be delivered by representatives from Jotun, Stolt Tankers, Hapag Lloyd, Arxada, and the Florida Institute of Technology.
For more information about the International Antifouling Conference 2023, visit: https://antifouling-conference-2023.confetti.events/
Anemoi appoint Liam Campbell as Projects Director
Anemoi Marine Technologies Ltd, a leader in wind-assisted propulsion for commercial vessels, has appointed Liam Campbell as Projects Director. He has extensive experience in the maritime industry working in senior and director positions in shipyards, classification societies and shipping companies, and brings a wealth of strategic growth and business transformation experience.
Liam Campbell (pictured) said: “Anemoi is now globally recognised as a leading Rotor Sail designer and manufacturer and I am very excited to join such a talented and dynamic team as Projects Director. Anemoi has designed a uniquely solution-orientated technology which, coupled with its established, strong supply chain, makes it one of the best choices for successfully reducing ship emissions.”
Liam has managed large organisations and ship newbuild and refit programmes in four different countries for both shipyards and owners. He was also previously responsible for selection of concepts and delivery of the energy efficiency programme for two major ship owners.
This appointment takes Anemoi's worldwide headcount to 45 plus a large team of production partners. Anemoi continues to grow at pace and announced last month that Liberian Registry has granted an Approval in Principle (AIP) for their award-winning Rotor Sail systems. The folding and rail systems were validated on a Newcastlemax bulk carrier design from SDARI and issued an AIP by Lloyd’s Register.
Commenting on Liam's appointment, Kim Diederichsen, CEO of Anemoi Marine Technologies, said: “Anemoi is going from strength to strength and Liam brings a wealth of experience to the team. He has proven expertise within the industry and will add huge value to our global client base as we secure more exciting projects and Rotor Sails continue to benefit the industry’s decarbonisation push.”
Liam is a Naval Architecture and Offshore Engineering graduate from the University of Strathclyde, Glasgow, a Chartered Engineer and a Fellow of the Royal Institute of Naval Architects.
Cruise industry leaders converge at Posidonia Sea Tourism Forum to discuss industry's challenges and potential
The 7th Posidonia Sea Tourism Forum will bring together top executives and industry leaders from the international cruise sector to discuss the challenges and potential of the industry and highlight the importance of the Southeast Mediterranean region and the need for new destinations to keep pace with the industry's rapid growth and emerging trends.
To be held on 25-26 April in Thessaloniki’s Makedonia Palace Hotel, the biennial event comes at a time when the cruise industry is looking to fully recover from the pandemic and chart a path towards a sustainable future.
The high-ranking participation of CLIA (Cruise Lines International Association) at the event is testament to the importance of the region and the need for new destinations and markets to emerge.
The forum is set to feature a high-profile line-up of speakers and the keynote speech will be delivered by Pierfrancesco Vago, CLIA Global Chair and Executive Chairman of MSC Cruises.
Wybcke Meier, CEO of TUI Cruises, who has also confirmed her presence at the event, emphasized the importance of sustainable cruising and integrated planning. "Cruising is a sustainable mode of travel, and together with the ports and destinations, we will continue to develop while taking everyone's interests into account - through integrated planning and better management of guest flows."
The speakers will focus on a number of key issues including destination delivery, the development and upgrade of port and tourism infrastructure to encourage and enable growth, the need to properly assess the economic benefit and environmental impact for a given destination and the capacity for shore-side electric power-connectivity, amongst others. They will also discuss the challenges of berth reservation and assignment, particularly in marquee ports with limited berthing ability.
With a line-up of top industry executives, the Posidonia Sea Tourism Forum is poised to generate significant interest and provide valuable insights for all participants. The event promises to be an opportunity for the cruise industry to come together and find solutions for the challenges facing the sector.
Chris Theophilides, CEO of Celestyal Cruises, commented: “We are delighted to participate in this year’s Posidonia Sea Tourism Forum, particularly as it takes place in our homeport of Thessaloniki, an up-and-coming city that has plenty to offer visitors in the way of history, culture and unrivalled gastronomy. As Greece and the Eastern Mediterranean are our home, we look forward to constructive dialogue between the authorities and cruise companies to ensure sustainable development within the area which will benefit both the national and the local economy.”
CLIA Europe highlights the importance of the event as it is organising a session titled ‘Pathways to Net Zero’ to offer practical examples of implementation and a guide through the maze to net zero. The session will cover topics ranging from decarbonisation, port infrastructure, and safety requirements to the Poseidon Principles.
The Posidonia Sea Tourism Forum will also host the ‘YES to SEApping Forum 2023’ to reach out to the younger generation in Thessaloniki. The forum aims to inform young people about the evolving Blue Economy by covering both the shipping and sea tourism industries.
Theodore Vokos, Managing Director, Posidonia Exhibitions SA, said: "The Posidonia Sea Tourism Forum is an important event that brings together industry leaders and offers a platform for them to share their insights on the challenges and potential of the industry. We are thrilled to have CLIA Europe organise a session at the event, and we are excited to see the younger generation engage in the ‘YES to SEApping Forum 2023’. This year's event promises to be one of the most significant events of the year for the cruise industry.”
The 2023 PSTF is sponsored by Diamond Sponsor Thessaloniki Port Authority S.A., Silver Sponsor Piraeus Port Authority SA, Bronze Sponsors Celestyal Cruises, Global Ports Holding, Heraklion Port Authority SA, Kyvernitis Travel and Thessaloniki Tourism Organisation. The official airline is SKY express. It is organised under the auspices of the Ministry of Maritime Affairs & Insular Policy and the Ministry of Tourism and supported by the Hellenic Chamber of Shipping, the Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA), the Association of Mediterranean Cruise Ports (MedCruise) and the Union of Cruise Ship Owners & Associated Members.
Laurent-Emmanuel Migeon appointed new Chairman and CEO of listed water treatment specialist BIO-UV Group
French water treatment specialist BIO-UV Group has appointed Laurent-Emmanuel Migeon as its new Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, succeeding company founder Benoît Gillmann.
Mr Gillmann, who founded the company in 2000, said: “After more than 22 years of service dedicated to the development of BIO-UV Group, I have decided to sell my BIO-UV Group shares to focus on other projects and my family. I am proud of what we have achieved over the last two decades and thank all those past and present members of the BIO-UV Group family who have been key to that success. I am leaving the company in very capable hands.”
Laurent-Emmanuel Migeon, who has co-managed BIO-UV Group with Mr Gillmann for the past five years, has a track record in the life sciences, environmental and agrifood sectors, preceded by ten-years in finance with PricewaterhouseCoopers and Arthur Andersen.
An agricultural engineer with a master’s degree from INSEAD, Mr Migeon joined BIO-UV Group in early 2018 as Chief Operating Officer and Deputy General Manager. He contributed significantly to the company’s successful IPO on the Euronext Paris exchange and subsequent fund raising instrumental to the acquisitions of Scotland-based Triogen Holdings from Suez, and the Toulouse-based company Corelec.
Commenting on his appointment, Mr Migeon said: “It is an honour to have the opportunity to continue to represent BIO-UV Group in its next phases of growth, while maintaining the high standards that have been the company’s hallmark since its creation by Benoît Gillmann more than 20 years ago.
"We will continue to strengthen and grow our position in the four markets we serve and continue to propel BIO-UV Group along a growth trajectory the Financial Times has ranked as one of Europe’s fastest growing companies.”
BIO-UV Group designs, manufactures and markets ultraviolet, ozone, salt electrolysis, and AOP (advanced oxidation process) technologies designed to disinfect and treat various on-land and on-sea water streams. This includes, industrial and municipal water treatment, aquaculture and fisheries water treatment, recreational and leisure water treatment, and the treatment of ship’s ballast water by way of its BIO-SEA system.
S5 Agency World provides agency support for launch of new methanol-powered vessels
Global port services provider S5 Agency World (S5) announces it has begun providing global hub and port agency support to Proman for its first methanol-fuelled tankers.
S5 successfully coordinated two new methanol-powered vessels Stena Pro Patria and Stena Pro Marine – for their first call at the Port of Ulsan.
With more than 360 port-owned offices strategically located in all major maritime hubs, S5 can facilitate port calls worldwide with its global reach. Through its technological advancements, S5’s digital hub solution Simply5 ensures every client has a tailored strategy, while ensuring vessels' activities can be optimised and port calls can be executed more sustainably.
S5’s experience and expertise, in the marine fuels sector and understanding of the technical challenges, means it can provide high-quality port services for Proman and Proman Stena Bulk’s new methanol-powered vessels.
As the methanol market continues to evolve globally and more terminals come online, the ongoing challenge for gas carriers will be to ensure they take a strategic approach to time management that allows them to operate vessels efficiently. Using a digital hub solution to manage port calls will ensure S5’s customers can make real-time decisions to optimise their vessels’ performance.
Jason Berman, Chief Commercial Officer at S5 Agency World, commented: “We are delighted to strengthen our long partnership with one of the largest methanol producers in the world and extend our services to its new and growing low-emission joint venture fleet. Our digital solutions, expertise and local knowledge will help Proman to deliver its cargo safely and efficiently at every port call they make worldwide.”
Digitalisation, through the implementation of software to manage port agency processes, eliminates errors in paperwork that arise when port calls are managed in offline silos. By streamlining workloads and ensuring commercial information is readily available to those that need it, S5 works with partners to reduce operating costs, increase efficiencies, and improve profitability on every port call.
Anita Gajadhar, Proman’s Executive Director for Marketing, Logistics and Shipping, said: "S5 makes the lives of our vessel operations teams easier with its global hub solution. S5’s experience and global hub solution allow a harmonious synergy between our commercial operations and technical operations, ensuring all our port calls are managed safely and efficiently. We look forward to continuing to work with S5 as our methanol-fuelled fleet grows.”
S5 has worked with Proman for more than a decade, integrating its technology solutions into Proman’s finance and operations software and acts as a key partner to the business in its operations.
C-level promotions at TT Club reflect planned progression for senior executives
International freight and logistics insurer TT Club has announced two new appointments to senior positions as part of its planned succession programme. Kevin King has been promoted to Deputy Chief Executive Officer and Mark Argentieri to Chief Operating Officer (COO) in place of King. Both King and Argentieri have been working closely with TT’s CEO, Charles Fenton, in recent years ensuring a smooth handover of responsibilities, as Fenton positions the Club in anticipation of his stepping down from the CEO role at the end of 2023.
Beyond then, Fenton will remain close to the business, having assumed the role of Chairman of Thomas Miller Holdings (TT’s management company) in 2021. He will continue to support the Manager’s relationship with the TT Club Board and the promotion of the Club internationally.
King (pictured, left) is a 26-year veteran of Thomas Miller, having held positions in a number of its managed businesses in the United States before moving to London in 2015 to lead TT’s EMEA region and more latterly serve as its COO.
Argentieri (right) has led the TT team in the EMEA region for the last three years having previously gained experience with both TT and the London Market in a range of marine classes of insurance including port and terminal, forwarder and logistics operator cover. His EMEA leadership role included responsibility for the growth of the business and its service delivery. Argentieri’s management skills have reinforced TT’s reputation for delivering a superior service for Members across the underwriting, claims and loss prevention functions, and he continues to look for new ways the Club can add value to the membership.
Together these two senior executives will help sustain TT’s tradition of specialised expertise in the global freight transport arena while advancing the Club’s position on ESG issues; carefully adopting the benefits of data mining and AI technology; maintaining industry-leading loss prevention activity, and maximising Member retention and growth.
Foreship powers on to reach ship battery project milestone
Foreship has secured a 40th shipboard battery project, passing a milestone of consultancy, design and installation assignments which have included the largest Energy Storage System (ESS) ever connected and key work to standardize systems interfaces.
Spanning newbuilds and retrofit battery projects, the naval architecture and marine engineering firm has been at the heart of the highest profile ESS work in the cruise and ferry sectors, also leading the charge to advance the use of battery power onboard inland vessels.
According to the Maritime Battery Forum, nearly 600 vessels in operation feature batteries as part of their energy source solutions, while a further 190 ships are on order. Foreship estimates that around 645MWh of shipboard battery power was in service worldwide at the start of 2023, around 400MWh more than was the case in 2019.
“The case for batteries on board ships is increasingly compelling, whether owners are optimizing fuel efficiency by exploiting spinning reserve, maximizing engine efficiency with peak load shaving, or using batteries in specific circumstances as a zero-emission energy source,” said Jan-Erik Räsänen (pictured), Chief Technology Officer, Foreship.
Foreship has built a complete portfolio of shipboard battery consultancy services since its first project in 2018, extending from feasibility studies and concept design, to specifications, basic and detail design and project management. The start-to-finish service covers everything from assessing ROI to battery sizing, safety and ship stability, supplier evaluation, systems integration, documentation for class and technical project management.
Among the 40 projects, highlights include the feasibility study, specifications, concept and basic design, and technical project management for shipping’s largest ever (10MWh) battery installation, as part of a major cruise vessel retrofit. The project required progressive work on battery system installation, all ancillary equipment and systems including transformer installation, converter separation, fire integrity, gas monitoring, cooling and ventilation.
As advances in battery technology improve the power vs. size/weight ratio, the usefulness of stored energy as a zero-emission propulsion solution and as a back-up in case of engine failure will continue to rise, according to Räsänen. “The increasing use of battery technology is making ships more efficient and greener, but also safer,” he said.
Foreship has also taken the technical specification lead role in Current Direct, the Horizon 2020 project which envisages swappable batteries as the lifeblood of a fleet of all-electric ships clearing the air along European waterways. The Current Direct project devised an ESS that fits within the footprint of a 20-foot container and has worked with class on standardization for commercial scale-up.
While batteries are used sparingly for main propulsion today, Räsänen pointed out that they convert energy to thrust with much higher efficiency than diesel engines. “Given IMO goals to reduce ship carbon emissions by 2030 and achieve 50% carbon reduction by 2050, regulators, class, naval architects and systems suppliers have a responsibility to harmonize technical standards for zero emission battery power,” he added.
NorthStandard announced as Exclusive Sponsor of the first ever LISW23 Daily Radio Show
London International Shipping Week 2023 (LISW23) is delighted to welcome NorthStandard as the exclusive sponsor of the first ever LISW Daily Radio Show.
To be broadcast live from 7am to 8am Monday to Thursday during LISW23, the show will set the scene for each day during this important must-attend global maritime week.
Listeners will be able to enjoy interviews, features and commentary of key issues facing the global shipping industry. Industry leaders, politicians and decision makers in the global maritime sector will be invited to participate and give their views. It will offer visitors to London as well as those listening in online, an insight into the day’s events as well as a look back on the previous day’s highlights.
Llewellyn Bankes-Hughes, Director of Shipping Innovation and co-founder of LISW, said the radio show would connect news and views surrounding LISW23 with those attending the week in person as well as those tuning in online.
“The idea of the radio show is to keep all delegates attending LISW23, and those listening from overseas, fully up-to-date with events during the week. The show will feature special interviews with invited guests as well as magazine style features to get each LISW23 day off to the right start. It will also include market updates and weather reports. It will be available for live streaming to the in-person attendees and online visitors to LISW23.
“We couldn’t do this without the support of our sponsors, and we are delighted to be working with our friends at NorthStandard on this very important and exciting media platform. Listeners will be able to tune in via the LISW23 website or via links on social media, either live or catch up throughout each day. Further details about the links will be publicised in the next few weeks,” he said.
Commenting on the partnership, Rob McInally, Global Director of Marketing & Communications at NorthStandard, (pictured) said: “We are delighted to be the first sponsor for the LISW23 daily radio show. London International Shipping Week has grown to play such an important role in the international shipping calendar over the last decade and we are proud that NorthStandard can support the event in our inaugural year.”
LISW23 will be held in the week of September 11-15, 2023 and will play host to the maritime world with hundreds of events attracting thousands of international industry decision makers into London during the week. The headline LISW23 Conference will be held on Wednesday September 13th while the LISW23 Gala Dinner will be held on Thursday September 14th.
Liverpool starts 80-day countdown to Battle of the Atlantic commemorative weekend
Veterans who served during one of the most decisive and long fought battles of the Second World War – the Battle of the Atlantic – were the guests of honour at an event in Liverpool earlier this month to launch an 80-day countdown for the Battle of the Atlantic 80th Anniversary Commemoration.
The veterans were joined by guests from the Royal and Merchant Navies, the Canadian Navy, the Royal Air Force, Lord Mayor Roy Gladden, Liverpool Pilots, senior cadets from Sefton Sea Cadets, and trustees of the Battle of the Atlantic Memorial Charity. The guests assembled for a welcome speech from Gary Doyle, chair of the Battle of the Atlantic Memorial charity, and watched a specially commissioned film about the Atlantic Campaign.
The launch marked the start of an 80-day countdown to a three-day commemoration, which will take place in Liverpool across the bank holiday weekend from 26 – 28 May 2023.
Lord Mayor of Liverpool, Cllr Roy Gladden, said: “Tens of thousands of Merchant Seamen died to keep the supply lanes open and without them our nation would have starved. It is therefore vital that we remember the important role our city played, and I am very much looking forward to the series of events the city is putting on to mark the 80th anniversary of the Battle of the Atlantic.”
Damen Marine Components delivers rudder and steering gear for new coastal research vessel
A single high-lift Barke® flap rudder together with a piston-type steering gear system was delivered by Damen Marine Components’ (DMC) to Holland Shipyards Group’s yard in Hardinxveld-Giessendam. There they were fitted into a 35-metre coastal research vessel that was built for the Norwegian Institute of Marine Research (IMR) and which is named the RV Prinsesse Ingrid Alexandra.
DMC’s Barke® flap rudders are specifically designed for ships engaged in activities such as research, fishing and dredging that require excellent manoeuvrability, low noise and vibration levels, and first-rate fuel economy. Their progressively rotating flaps generate high lift forces at large rudder angles and low drag at small rudder angles, delivering the necessary performance in all situations. The enclosed linkage system also provides overload protection and prevents any material present in the surrounding water from entering the rudder assembly.
DMC’s piston-type steering gear systems are an ideal match for the Barke® flap rudders. They are highly reliable and, with multiple options regarding rudder stock connections, rudder angles and cylinders, the installation process is both efficient and economical when it comes to the space required.
The state-of-the-art ship will undertake a wide variety of duties. These will range from data collection and fish stock sampling to the deploying and retrieval of ROVs, buoys, ocean landers, autonomous ocean gliders, AUVs and other equipment.
Barke® flap rudders can be found installed on other specialist vessels including the UK’s 90m RRS James Cook research ship and the MN Colibri, a unique RoRo vessel built to transport launcher components for the Ariane 5 and Soyuz heavy-lift space launch vehicles. DMC also supplied the complete steering system for Australia’s recently delivered 160-metre, Research and Supply Vessel (RSV) Nuyina, including full-spade rudders, steering gear and control systems. Last, a Barke® rudder and piston-type steering gear were delivered for the Multi-Purpose Research Vessel of NIWA (National Institute of Water and Atmospheric Research) in New Zealand.
DMC’s Sales and Marketing Director Wim Knoester commented: “We are confident that the combination of our Barke® flap rudder and piston-type steering system will serve the IMR’s latest research vessel well for many years into the future. It has been, as always, a pleasure to be continuing our cooperation with Holland Shipyards Group that dates back to its formation over 40 years ago.”
Jules Custers of Holland Shipyards Group added: “We have every confidence in the quality and performance of the equipment designed, built and delivered by Damen Marine Components. They will contribute to what is a first-class research vessel capable of fulfilling a wide range of roles.”
The two organisations already have another project underway, with DMC contracted to build five Optima nozzles Ø2625 for two, newbuild, 3,600 DWT inland waterway cargo vessels and three, new 3,800 DWT MPP coasters.
Alfa Laval’s Marine Innovation Summit 2023 to explore the path towards a decarbonised future
Alfa Laval will host the Marine Innovation Summit 2023 on March 28th from 9 to 11:15 am CEST, and attendees across the industry are invited to participate and engage with thought leaders in the field.
As the world faces unprecedented environmental challenges, the shipping industry must take decisive action to reduce its carbon footprint. The Marine Innovation Summit 2023 will deep dive into pressing topics of how to achieve decarbonisation with the support of digitalisation, and emission reduction technologies. Registration is open, free and will be streamed live from Alfa Laval’s head office in Lund, Sweden at 9:00 am CEST.
This year, the event will bring together renowned industry leaders to discuss the evolving carbon management landscape in the maritime sector. The summit will engage prominent industry leaders to not only discuss the most optimized way of using digitalisation and other green technologies but also explore retrofitting opportunities for the existing ships, to enable decarbonisation of the entire shipping landscape.
"Without embracing new technologies to optimize ship operations, we risk falling behind global emissions reduction targets,” says Sameer Kalra, President, Alfa Laval Marine Division. Engaging diverse stakeholders across the industry to have forward-looking discussions around existing and emerging technologies will accelerate our journey towards sustainable shipping.”
Through meaningful discussions and engaging presentations, participants will gain a better understanding of the latest technologies, opportunities, and challenges that the transition towards sustainable shipping brings along with it.
Distinguished speakers and panellists to drive discussions
The Marine Innovation Summit 2023 will bring together a diverse group of industry leaders, including representatives from notable shipping companies, environment committees and research institutes, for a 2-hour live-streamed event. During two panel discussions, the speakers and panellists will share their insights on key technologies, innovations, and possibilities that can be leveraged by the maritime industry to achieve emission reduction targets.
One of the highlights of the summit is the keynote speech by Johannah Christensen, CEO of the Global Maritime Forum. She will inspire us with her talk on the important topic titled ‘The challenges and opportunities facing international shipping in its quest for decarbonization.’
Allan Nygård Bertelsen, CEO of Hydro Hull Cleaning AS will be the summit’s Inspirational speaker. He will shed light on the topic ‘Is Robotic Hull Cleaning an idea whose time has come?’ He will also touch upon the relationship between hull cleaning, vessel performance and fuel consumption together with solutions available to overcome the challenges of hull cleaning.
To view the programme, the full speaker list, and to register your participation in the Marine Innovation Summit 2023, please visit: Innovation Summit 2023 | Alfa Laval
Port-IT Network Detection & Response successfully implemented on N-Sea survey vessel Pathfinder
N-Sea’s Pathfinder, a Geo survey vessel that processes large amounts of data for its customers, has been chosen to run a long-term trial of the Port-IT NDR (Network Detection & Response) solution. The data gathered and lessons learned will be used to further advance the technical prowess of the Port-IT NDR solution for future customers.
When devices communicate to the internet, their traffic is routed by a router. However, when devices communicate with each other, there is no need for the router to become involved with this transaction. As such in most networks the traffic that takes place that does not go to the internet is handled by a network switch. A switch connects local devices and allows them to talk to each other. This traffic is not seen by the Firewall and thus is a significant blind spot for malicious intrusions.
Port-IT NDR is able to see this local only traffic and analyse it for malicious events with multiple engines and build a behavioural profile based on what source of the traffic is transmitting / has transmitted, which can also be used to correlate data between events, even from other Port-IT Cybersecurity solutions.
For N-Sea it gives them unprecedented insight into the local network performance and its cybersecurity, which they can use to further advance both of these critical elements. This data, along with the powerful behavioural profile engine can even be used to spot highly targeted attacks or malicious insiders with knowledge of the vessel and its infrastructure.
Port-IT says it is happy to work together with such an active customer as N-Sea, who has taken great steps to ensure the cyber resilience of their vessels.
Wind for Goods event unveils 2023 programme
Nantes Saint-Nazaire will be hosting the second international Wind for Goods edition dedicated to wind-powered maritime transport on 1- 2 June 2023. This edition will offer a fine programme, with many conferences, meetings and experiments, as well as the opportunity to sail aboard a new generation of ships.
The aim is to bring together all the players in the sector to highlight the concrete solutions and innovations that contribute to the decarbonization of maritime freight transport, and to discuss the key issues of this sector, which is working to protect our maritime environment.
Some 50 exhibitors, including a dozen international companies, and more than 1,000 visitors are expected at this year’s Wind for Goods, which describes itself as the leading international event dedicated to wind-powered shipping.
“Saint- Nazaire is at the forefront of sailing transport, as it is in shipbuilding and marine renewable energy,” says David Samzun, Mayor of Saint-Nazaire. “New job-creating companies have expanded this sector of wind-powered transport. Industry is not the problem, it is the solution.”
“This second edition of Wind for Goods clearly demonstrates - both in France and internationally - the level of maturity of wind energy innovation and the strength of its ecosystem in the Nantes Saint-Nazaire area,” adds Johanna Rolland, Mayor of Nantes, President of the Nantes Métropole and President of Nantes Saint-Nazaire Développement. “This event reflects our ambition to transform the maritime sector in a sustainable way, a goal that we are pursuing in our territories with all our local economic players.”
Thordon Bearings delivers robust support to wind power-in-a-box technology
Thordon Bearings is supplying its grease-free, self-lubricating ThorPlas-Blue bearing material to a novel containerized wind propulsion system designed to reduce fuel consumption and fossil fuel emissions across all commercial ship types.
The rigid sail system – developed by entrepreneurs Miles Keeney-Ritchie and Satchel Douglas, co-founders of Boston, Massachusetts, U.S.A.-based start-up Aloft Systems – is a rigid aluminum and composite airfoil housed in a 16m (53ft) shipping container that deploys automatically when the wind is sufficient to propel the vessel along.
Four ThorPlas-Blue bearings were machined and installed on a ¼ scale prototype to allow the sails to fold, rotate 360 degrees and pivot to optimize wind conditions. Thordon will supply the material to full-scale units once the entrepreneurs have partnered with a shipowner with whom to trial the system.
Aloft Systems’ Head of Engineering Satchel Douglas said: “We contacted a number of bearing manufacturers, but decided on the Thordon material as it’s as robust and low maintenance as you can get. We needed a fit-and-forget solution capable of withstanding high loads and pressures. And with ThorPlas-Blue there’s no maintenance, no grease, no corrosion. It was exactly what we were looking for.”
Jason Perry, Thordon Bearings’ Regional Manager – North America, said: “Aloft Systems aligns completely with our mission statement and ethos on environmental sustainability, so we are delighted to be part of this innovative and important project from the outset. The flat-out ingenuity of something like this has the potential to get the entire global shipping industry moving to wind power. Aloft has hit the sweet spot.”
At full scale, two Aloft sail units, each containing a pair of 15m (49.2ft) long, 3m (9.8ft) wide folding sails, can reduce fuel consumption and emissions by at least 6%. Depending on vessel size and configuration more units could increase the fuel savings.
The sails tower 18.3m (60ft) above deck when fully extended.
“The goal is not to replace the ship’s existing propulsion system, rather reduce the reliance on fossil fuels and help shipowners meet their emissions targets without taking vessels out of service to do so,” said CEO Keeney-Ritchie.
“The beauty of it, is that vessel owners can change the number of units on their vessels for each voyage to optimally balance fuel savings with the cargo requirement. It’s not a fixed installation, the sails can be moved from ship to ship.”
While wind propulsion technology is maturing, the industry cannot wait and requires a system today that can be easily installed and dropped into existing vessels to meet the gamut of emissions legislation.
The modular, autonomous high thrust propulsion system Aloft Systems has designed does just that. It can be easily lifted on to the deck of any vessel without the need for structural modifications, pipework, wiring, or drydocking.
“If shipowners want to make a difference right now, if they want to save fuel and reduce CO2 emissions right now, then it is wind power that's going to get them there fast and more cost effectively than any other form of renewable propulsion,” said Keeney-Ritchie. “We're designing for a 25-year life span, with an ROI directly related to the cost of fuel we save. Where our solution stands apart is the installation cost will be essentially nothing whereas the installation cost for other systems can be the almost as much as the unit itself (so nearly doubling the effective cost).”
Craig Carter, Thordon Bearings’ VP Business Development, furthered: “As a member of the International Wind Ship Association (IWSA), we are keen to support new developments in sustainable propulsion technology. Wind is currently the only zero-emission means of propulsion and Aloft Systems has found a way of making that energy available for all vessels.”
Having successfully demonstrated the technology on land with the ¼ scale prototype, Aloft Systems is now actively engaging with ship operators to trial a full-scale version on an ocean-going pilot vessel.
VIKAND partners with Maritime Holdings Group to provide medical services for restart of Peace Boat
Global healthcare specialist VIKAND is partnering with Maritime Holdings Group Inc (MHG) to provide medical services to Japan Grace, operator of Peace Boat ethical cruises aboard the vessel Pacific World.
Under this agreement, VIKAND will provide global healthcare support and medical guidance to the doctors and nurses onboard the Pacific World. VIKAND also setup and organised the onboard medical centre and is involved in reviewing crew Pre-Employment Medical Examinations, calibrating biomedical equipment, conducting a medical audit, checking and supplying formulary for crew and vetting onboard medical staff.
“Working with MHG on this project has been a great experience and we support Peace Boat’s ethical approach to cruising, which gives passengers a more meaningful understanding of the countries they visit,” said Peter Hult, CEO of VIKAND. “I’m also pleased to further expand our presence in the Asian market by partnering with Japan Grace.
“The Pacific World is the largest ship in Peace Boat’s 40-year history, and we are honoured to provide her crew with ongoing medical advice and support.”
Based in Tokyo, travel agent Japan Grace has operated Peace Boat’s global and regional cruises since 1995. These journeys offer passengers a series of unique programmes designed for more meaningful experiences at each port of call, such as homestays with local families, cultural exchange programmes, and even programmes built around the country's social, environmental and historic concerns.
BIMCO launches campaign to accelerate uptake of electronic bills of lading
BIMCO has launched the "25 by 25 pledge", a commitment by some of the world’s biggest shippers in the bulk sector to target moving 25% of their annual seaborne trade volume for at least one commodity using electronic bills of lading by 2025. The pledge is part of an ongoing effort to accelerate trade digitalisation and streamline the supply chain process in the bulk sector.
The use of electronic bills of lading (eBLs) increases efficiency, reduces costs and improves the overall transparency and security of trade. In contrast, paper bills of lading are inefficient, slow down trade and are vulnerable to fraud and human error. The use of paper bills therefore poses unnecessary legal and commercial risks such as relying on letters of indemnity or getting lost in transit.
"The wider adoption of electronic bills of lading is an important step in the shipping industry’s digital transformation," said Grant Hunter, Director of Standards, Innovation and Research at BIMCO. "We are delighted that some major players in the dry bulk sector have already backed this community initiative to reach 25% usage across the entire bulk sector. These mining companies have made good headway with adopting eBLs over the past years, mainly with iron ore, but much more can be done," Hunter said.
Hui Ling Chan, VP, Order-to-Cash Global Business Services at BHP, one of the world's largest miners said: "Identifying and driving innovative solutions is key to the way BHP operates, and we are committed to supporting the digital transformation in the shipping industry together with our supply chain partners. We are pleased to be a signatory to the 25 by 25 pledge and hope others will join with us to support the acceleration of trade digitalisation and streamlining of the supply chain process.”
Laure Baratgin, Head of Commercial Operations at Rio Tinto said, “As the largest dry bulk shipper in the world, one of our ambitions has been to continuously improve the experience of doing business with Rio Tinto for our customers and supply chain through innovative end-to-end digital solutions. We fully support the 25 by 25 pledge on the use of electronic bills of lading – as a key step in enabling faster, more secure and traceable trade flows, and bringing the industry closer to a full digital trade future.”
Erick Tavares, Sales Administration Manager at Vale, a leading global iron ore supplier said: “Vale takes great pride in being among the first to sign the 25 by 25 pledge. Innovation and digitalization are levers for us to reach our ambitions, and over the past decade, we have worked tirelessly to digitize our operations both internally and externally, always with a focus on enhancing the customer experience. By signing the pledge, we are reaffirming our dedication to advancing our digitalization process and inviting our customers and partners to join us on this exciting journey that benefits the entire supply chain.”
“At Anglo American, we are committed to supporting initiatives that help to drive innovation and efficiency in our products’ supply chains. Digitisation is a key enabler for such a drive and the use of electronic bills of lading is a natural part of this journey. We are proud to be a signatory to the 25 by 25 pledge,” said Timo Smit, Executive Head of Marketing at Anglo American.
Owners and operators also have an important role to play in the switch to electronic bills of lading, as they are key stakeholders in this process, and BIMCO invites their support for the initiative.
Mr Jinsong Gu, Chairman of COSCO Shipping Bulk Co. Ltd and member of BIMCO’s Board of Directors said: “We believe that BIMCO’s campaign to achieve 25% eBLs in the bulk sector by 2025 is an important step in accelerating shipping’s digital transformation. Electronic bills of lading increase efficiency, reduce costs and will reduce reliance on letters of indemnity – which is a benefit to all stakeholders.”
“As a shipowner and operator, we are fully supportive of the 25 by 25 pledge and accelerating the shift towards electronic bills of lading,” said Julius Posset, Head of Operations-Claims Department at Oldendorff Carriers. “We will be encouraging our counterparts to adopt eBLs and join the pledge as it will ultimately benefit everyone in the supply chain.”
Christos Anagnostou, Star Bulk’s Operations & Insurance Director, said: “Star Bulk is very supportive of this BIMCO initiative to promote eBLs which is also in line with our company’s focus on digital transformation.”
BIMCO is a founding member of the FIT Alliance, a partnership between BIMCO, DCSA, ICC, SWIFT and FIATA. The Alliance collaborates on the development and adoption of relevant standards to facilitate the use of electronic bills of lading.
PSA Singapore celebrates 1 million TEU milestone at Tuas Port
PSA Singapore has celebrated the one millionth TEU handled at Tuas Port, staff, management, and unions gathering in honour of the occasion (pictured). This feat was achieved just 6 months after the official Tuas Opening Ceremony on 1 September 2022.
Commemorating this milestone, Regional CEO Southeast Asia Ong Kim Pong said: “With five operational berths at Tuas, we now operate one of the world’s most advanced and automated ports. Such achievements are made possible by the strong partnership and commitment of our team and the Unions.
“Besides developing Tuas Port into an extensive and well-connected Maritime Hub, we will be developing an adjacent cargo hub – the Tuas Port+ Hub – offering container freight station (CFS), warehousing and flow centre services in the immediate future.”
Tuas Port marks a new chapter for PSA Singapore’s operations. The terminal reaffirms Singapore’s status as a global hub port, and it is augmented by world-class technologies that enable us to better serve our stakeholders.
The development of Tuas Port and the Tuas Ecosystem will unfold in the coming decades as PSA Singapore continues to expand on its comprehensive suite of value-added port services, innovative cargo solutions, and supply chain orchestration. When fully completed in the 2040s, Tuas Port will have a handling capacity of 65 million TEUs annually, close to double the volumes being handled in Singapore today.
Ridgebury Tankers uses FuelTrust ‘digital chemist’ to prove fleet emissions reductions and cut carbon liabilities
FuelTrusthas announced results of its work with Ridgebury Tankers to validate emissions reductions for its fleet. Using FuelTrust’s AI technology, Ridgebury has established a carbon baseline for its Suezmax tanker, Ridgebury John Zipser, and assessed improvements in the vessel’s performance following a retrofit in 2019, demonstrating return on an investment in scrubbers as well as carbon savings.
Ridgebury appointed FuelTrust to assess fuel and operations data from past years for its tanker, comparing month-by-month and year-by-year performance to establish a baseline for carbon emissions, from which they could measure vessel improvements. The analysis also showed the value of a scrubber retrofit for the vessel and the impact of HFO fuel quality on carbon emissions.
Analysis using FuelTrust’s AI-based Carbon Baseline solution has helped Ridgebury to understand, to the kilogram, the entire emissions stack of the vessel, covering CO2, NOx, SOx, CAP and HAP emissions. At low cost, Ridgebury has been able to analyze the effects on vessel performance of installing a scrubber, a silicone hull coating, and buying higher quality fuels. The insights available to Ridgebury through FuelTrust’s technology would previously have been possible only by using an extensive and costly assortment of physical sensors and emissions-lab assessment consulting.
FuelTrust uses its patented artificial intelligence technology to trace the links between fuel bunkers at source, through combustion and subsequently emissions. This quickly and reliably delivers insights into the quality, density, GHG emissions, and the provenance of fuel. In an opaque bunkering market, where carbon emissions reports have been based on generalized estimates, FuelTrust’s AI analyzes the chemical interactions that take place during onboard combustion to accurately report emissions.
FuelTrust’s approach goes beyond simply applying a reduction in estimated emissions for each new piece of technology fitted to a vessel. FuelTrust uses AI-based virtual models of engines, scrubbers, coatings, and other clean technology when it analyses ship performance. FuelTrust’s AI technology can switch a particular virtual technology ‘on’ or ‘off’ and observe outcomes for past and future investments. It can therefore provide insights into investments in technology, changes to operational practices and fuel choices, and accurately model the benefits of combining these decisions.
Robert Burke, CEO at Ridgebury, said: “Our commitment to operating a sustainable business means that when we add a tanker to our fleet of vessels, we first consider how our investment will benefit the environment. Working with FuelTrust gives a higher level of detail and accuracy about how our investments affect emissions in any scenario. For the benefit of our seafarers, our investors, and the environment, we can use this insight to deliver measurable improvements to our vessels.”
Jonathan Arneault, CEO at FuelTrust, added: “Ridgebury is forward thinking in maximizing the value and environmental sustainability of its vessels, and FuelTrust’s unique approach fits perfectly with their desire to uncover the real ROI from their investments. We look forward to continuing to support Ridgebury’s goals as the company invests to improve the environmental and commercial performance of its vessels.”
Building on this initial project FuelTrust is now analysing additional tankers to assess how fuel choice and operational behaviours could reduce emissions. As part of the next phase, FuelTrust will produce an analysis of the relative financial and environmental benefits that could be accrued through the installation and effective operations of a scrubber by model.
FuelTrust will also provide insight into optimal HFO outcomes versus continued use of VLSFO without retrofit. For these Suezmax tankers, FuelTrust’s analysis will aid Ridgebury in making the best investment choices for reducing emissions and optimizing returns, as well as identifying operational behaviours that could provide increased benefits for Ridgebury and its charterers.
In addition to measuring the ROI from investing in more efficient technology, fleets can also use FuelTrust digital solutions to scientifically validate yearly emissions reduction in support of 2030 and 2050 IMO goals. Moreover, FuelTrust’s solutions provide verified carbon emissions results for accurate CII scores, enabling shipowners and operators to achieve better financial outcomes.
Inmarsat’s satellite coverage in Asia Pacific set to double after Australian ground stations go live
Experts at Inmarsat, a world leader in global, mobile satellite communications, have successfully connected the company’s I-6 F1 satellite to new ground stations in Western Australia. It marks a crucial milestone as the company upgrades its communications availability in the fast-growing Asia-Pacific (APAC) region.
I-6 F1 launched in December 2021 and spent seven months travelling to geostationary orbit above the Atlantic, using its all-electric propulsion system. After rigorous in-orbit testing in the second half of 2022, the spacecraft is now at its final orbital slot above the Indian Ocean. The company will begin increasing its capacity and transition services to the new satellite throughout 2023, beginning with the first customers from Q2.
The announcement follows the successful launch of I-6 F1’s twin – I-6 F2 – which lifted off from Cape Canaveral in February. Like F1, I-6 F2 will reach its geostationary orbital slot later this year, where it will undergo in-orbit-testing. The satellite will enter operational service over Europe, Africa, and much of the Americas in mid-2024.
Built in the UK, the I-6 satellites are the most technologically advanced commercial communications satellites ever launched. They are also the company’s first hybrid satellites, featuring both L-band (ELERA) narrowband and Ka-band (Global Xpress) high-speed broadband communications payloads.
Each of the I-6 satellites offer 50% more L-band capacity than Inmarsat’s entire 1-4 generation of ELERAsatellites, effectively doubling its total ELERA capacity. They also provide 20 Ka-band spot beams that can be directed to meet customer demand second-by-second.
The announcement adds further capabilities to Inmarsat’s ORCHESTRA communications network; a unique, global, multi-dimensional, dynamic mesh network that will redefine connectivity at scale with the highest capacity for mobility worldwide. ORCHESTRA enables Inmarsat’s partners and customers to keep pace with their growing data demands and enables them to empower emerging technologies in the future, like autonomous vehicles or flying taxis.
Peter Hadinger, Chief Technology Officer, Inmarsat, said: “We are seeing rising demand for our services across the board, as airlines offer faster services for passengers, shipping companies use automated navigation, and industries aim to decarbonise through the Internet of Things.”
“Our I-6 satellites are designed to meet that demand into the 2040s over two of the busiest regions in the world, as we enable a smarter, more connected society. Having double the beams, 50% more spectrum per beam and double the power of our I-4 satellites, the I-6s’ advanced processors can match customer demand as and where it is needed in real-time.”
Zeaborn transforms its administration with Harbor Lab's digital solutions
Harbor Lab announces that Zeaborn Ship Management will incorporate Harbor Lab’s e-disbursement software and agents’ directory into its systems for greater efficiencies and increased transparency across its port cost management processes.
With operations in Hamburg, Cyprus, Singapore, and Manila, Zeaborn is partnering with Harbor Lab to unify its processes, generate a higher degree of transparency and become more cost and time efficient, especially when it comes to the handling of repetitive administrative tasks that can be supported by modern technology.
With this cooperation, Zeaborn can compare quotes for husbandry services across ports globally, appoint agents, share and digitally approve documents, and most importantly, access clean and accurate data.
Matthias Bücker, Senior Vice President Commercial Management at Zeaborn, explains: “Zeaborn is a signatory to the UN Global Compact and member of the Maritime Anti-Corruption Network. As such we have vouched for transparent processes and money flows. Harbor Lab provides us with a platform to achieve exactly those goals while also streamlining internal processes to become more admin efficient as well as cost efficient in our spendings together with increasing the quality of the husbandry services provided to our clients’ fleets.”
Antonis Malxianakis, CEO and Founder of Harbor Lab, says: “We are delighted to be partnering with Zeaborn as we support its next steps to create a transparent and efficient framework in which it can administer and operate its ships. At Harbor Lab we provide our customers with information they can trust. Our services are driven by verified data and all users of the system are screened in line with our Compliance Policy.
“Our solution will no doubt lead to reduced operating costs and more transparent and efficient port call management for Zeaborn and we are proud they have already seen a significant return on investment.”
Zeaborn sought a solution that would not only consolidate and streamline its port-related disbursements administration, but also provide insights on market rates and fees that are difficult to get hold of through a third party.
The software streamlines the disbursement account analysis process and enhances the internal communication between Zeaborn’s four offices, reducing paperwork, saving time, and increasing transparency - all outcomes that are in line with Zeaborn’s ongoing commitment to its customers.
Seven new members join Methane Abatement in Maritime Innovation Initiative (MAMII)
A major cross sectoral initiative tasked with reducing methane emissions across the maritime industry has announced seven new members at a Lloyd’s Register LNG Forum event in Doha, Qatar.
New members of the Methane Abatement in Maritime Innovation Initiative (MAMII) include CoolCo, United Overseas Management, Capital Gas, Celsius Tankers, Global Meridian Holdings, Mitsui O.S.K. Lines, and TMS Cardiff Gas.
Led by Safetytech Accelerator, MAMII’s current members include Maran Gas Maritime, Mediterranean Shipping Company, Carnival Corporation & Plc, Seaspan Corporation, Shell, Lloyd’s Register and Knutsen Group.
MAMII was formed in September 2022 to identify, accelerate and advocate technology solutions for the maritime industry to measure and manage methane emissions activity. In doing so, it aims to minimise the environmental impact of liquefied natural gas (LNG) in shipping, whilst aiding the transition to future fuel solutions.
The new members bring a wealth of expertise from across the LNG value chain to the initiative, in a signal that they hope shows the industry’s action to tackle methane emissions in maritime is strengthening.
Compared with traditional marine fuels, LNG is widely understood to generate less carbon dioxide (CO2), and emit less nitrogen oxides, sulphur dioxide, and particulate matter, for the same propulsion power. This makes it a popular and widely used transition fuel.
However, analysis has indicated that the environmental benefits of using LNG could be partially negated due to any unburned methane passing through the combustion process.
Methane is a potent greenhouse gas, estimated to have a Global Warming Potential of 27-30 over 100 years, while CO2 has a GWP of 1 regardless of time period used.
In its first six months, MAMII has already mapped the LNG fuel landscape from the well to the ship, identified key measurements required, and has identified a range of potential new technology for measurement onboard ships.
The progress of MAMII comes at a time when methane abatement initiatives are gaining traction globally, such as the Green Ray project which recently won funding from the European Union.
The initiative is chaired by Panos Mitrou, Lloyd’s Register’s Global Gas Director, and directed by Safetytech Accelerator’s Head of Partnerships, Steve Price.
Steve Price, Head of Partnerships at Safetytech Accelerator, said: “We are looking forward to the next few months when we move from analysis and research into piloting new methane measurement technology on ships. Measuring actual emissions is a critical step in the decarbonisation of the shipping journey”.
Panos Mitrou, Global Gas Director at Lloyd’s Register, said: “The doubling of MAMII’s membership in the six months since its launch is a sign of the maritime industry’s commitment to addressing methane emissions. It also indicates the important role of technology in measuring and managing methane emissions activity. As the chairman of the MAMII initiative, I am delighted that so many significant shipping leaders have joined the ranks.”
Miltos Zisis, Managing Director at Capital Gas Ship Management, said: “We are excited to pioneer together with Lloyd’s Register and our peers in the MAMII project. We firmly believe that LNG will continue to be a major part of the energy mix and reducing the environmental impact of the value chain is one of the key challenges that we are facing.”
George Kourelis, General Manager at TMS Cardiff Gas, said: :We are convinced that MAMII will play a critical role in enhancing the information flow and adding to the tools needed to measure methane releases by LNG-fuelled ships, and taking actions in order to mitigate these and cement the position of LNG, as well as synthetic LNG in the future as an alternative green fuel for the next decades.”
Marlink and ABS Wavesight partner to accelerate maritime clients’ digital transformation
Smart network and ICT solutions company Marlink and ABS Wavesight™, the ABS-affiliated maritime software as a service (SaaS) company, have signed an agreement to collaborate on using optimized connectivity to support efficient delivery of sustainability services and data to clients’ vessels.
The agreement connects Marlink’s blended network with the voyage optimization and vessel management services provided by ABS Wavesight. The partners will collaborate to enable their many mutual clients to enhance their use of digital tools and applications using the optimised Marlink network.
“Marlink is delighted to have put in place this agreement with ABS Wavesight, an innovative partner whose approach to the challenges faced by the maritime industry and the solutions required links so closely with our own,” said Tore Morten Olsen, President, Maritime, Marlink. “We look forward to helping our mutual clients enjoy improved access to ABS Wavesight services and investigate how to further optimize connectivity for the next generation of digital services.”
Together, the companies will work to improve connectivity and integration of software and services into client ships and systems. Vessel operators will benefit from faster and more regular data updates that can help them improve vessel performance and optimize voyage execution.
“ABS Wavesight is an industry advocate for both digitalization and decarbonization, delivering unmatched value through its suite of products and integrated solutions and providing the insights needed for vessels to operate more efficiently,” said ABS Wavesight Chief Executive Paul Sells. “As we continue to partner with companies such as Marlink, we’re expanding our reach and strengthening our ability to help clients gain visibility into their existing operations to mitigate risk and deliver operational excellence.”
Launched in late 2022 and built on ABS’ 160-year legacy of maritime innovation and safety, ABS Wavesight combines the industry-leading platforms, Nautical Systems™ and My Digital Fleet™, which are collectively installed on more than 5,000 vessels. ABS Wavesight’s purpose-built, integrated solutions ensure a cohesive user experience that reduces costs, improves safety and enhances overall efficiency.
Marlink operates the maritime industry’s most advanced ICT networks, comprising connectivity across all available channels, including VSAT, L-band, 4G/5G and, most recently, services offered by Starlink and OneWeb. These ‘new-LEO’ services will provide maritime market users with very high throughput and low latency connectivity, blended with Marlink’s guaranteed throughput VSAT offerings.
PSA international and its subsidiaries report 2022 results
PSA International Pte Ltd (PSA) handled 90.9 million Twenty-foot Equivalent Units (TEUs) for the year ended 31 December 2022, representing a contraction of 0.7% from the previous year.
PSA Singapore contributed 37.0 million TEUs, and PSA terminals outside Singapore delivered a total throughput of 53.9 million TEUs, both 0.7% lower than 2021.
PSA Group revenue increased by 71.2% supported by business acquisitions and higher storage income. Profit from operations increased by 15.3%, and overall net profit for the year increased by 13.1% from previous year due to growth in other income and contribution from acquisitions. On a like-for-like basis, revenue and net profit increased 6.4% and 8.8% respectively from prior year.
PSA’s balance sheet remains strong with a gross debt equity ratio of 0.49 times at the close of 2022.
“2022 was a year marked by unpredictability,” said Mr Peter Voser, Group Chairman, PSA International. “Amidst the many challenges, we stayed focused on our strategic priorities and delivered a commendable performance.
“In recent years, we have been transforming our business and broadening our capabilities to better serve global supply chain stakeholders. Even as we continue building on our core business of ports, we have invested in growing our ability to offer logistics and supply chain solutions beyond the port. 2022 was a very significant year for PSA as we inaugurated the mega Tuas port in Singapore and fully acquired global logistics solutions provider BDP International.”
“In line with PSA’s long-term strategy, the organisation has now been restructured into two core businesses – Ports and Cargo Solutions,” added Mr Tan Chong Meng, Group CEO, PSA International, “with mid-mile logistics being value-added services that we term “Port+”, which will be our unique service differentiator.
“At the same time, we recognise the key role that culture plays in the successful transformation of organisations and we will be investing in further efforts to foster a more inclusive, diverse and collaborative environment – one that values innovation, people development and continuous learning to build our talent capabilities to meet the challenges ahead.”
ABS highlights transformational CII potential of biofuels today
Drop-in biofuels have the potential to immediately transform a vessel’s Carbon Intensity Indicator (CII) rating regardless of fuel type, with diesel vessels seeing the most significant gains.
That was a key message from Vassilios Kroustallis (pictured), ABS Senior Vice President, Global Business Development to a meeting of marine industry leaders in Cyprus. In a wide-ranging presentation on ABS’ latest decarbonization thinking, he outlined new research showing how a blend of biofuels could improve a vessel’s CII performance regardless of whether it was diesel, methanol or LNG-fueled.
A heavy fuel oil propelled vessel could see its rating improved from D to A in 2023 with the addition of a 30 percent blend of biodiesel. Bio-methanol added at 30 percent would move a C-rated methanol-fueled vessel to an A rating today, and bio-methane at 30 percent would push an LNG-fueled vessel from a B rating to an A rating.
“Drop-in biofuels are a powerful new tool for shipowners and operators to accelerate fleet decarbonization and improve their CII trajectory today,” said Kroustallis. “ABS is involved in pilot projects on the application of biofuels that have shown us the huge potential of these fuels to contribute to reducing a vessel’s tank-to-wake carbon intensity and transform its rating.
“The cost of biofuels is confined to the fuel itself rather than in any associated technology or equipment and so biofuels represent a compelling option once supply and regulatory questions are addressed.”
LR Approval in Principle for Rotoboost’s pre-combustion carbon capture system
Lloyd’s Register (LR) has awarded Approval in Principle (AiP) to Rotoboost, a Nordic hydrogen production company, for its pre-combustion Carbon Capture System (CCS) Rotobox.
Rotobox uses thermocatalytic decomposition process (TCD) onboard marine vessels, where part of the natural gas fuel supply is converted into hydrogen and graphite with a liquid catalyst.
The TCD process significantly reduces CO2 emissions, particulate matter and methane slip by producing hydrogen while capturing carbon in its solid form. Rotobox has the capacity to reduce overall carbon emissions by up to 100%, depending on the heating method used. Converted hydrogen from the CCS can be used for fuel cells or as blend-in fuel for combustion engines or gas-fired boilers.
Rotoboost’s solution is easily scalable to meet future emission regulations, with lower electrical power requirements compared to conventional carbon capture systems and less storage space needed for solid carbon, allowing the system and associated storage to remain compact even for long voyages. The system is well suited to LNG carriers and other LNG-fuelled vessels, offering an additional option for shipowners for decarbonising.
The AiP validates Rotoboost’s CCS system as compliant with LR’s goal-based and comprehensive prescriptive requirements, marking a further milestone in the development of carbon capture technology.
Andy McKeran (pictured, left), Lloyd’s Register Chief Commercial Officer said: “I believe that the decarbonisation of shipping starts now, and we need to find solutions that reduce emissions today. Therefore, I am pleased to award the Approval in Principle to Rotoboost for their innovative carbon capture system.
“Solving the methane emissions perception in the industry, through technology and evidence enables LNG to become a future fuel that is readily available today, subject to affordability – which ranks higher than any other alleged lower emissions fuel available today.”
Kaisa Nikulainen (pictured, right), Rotoboost Chief Executive Officer, said: "We are delighted to present the shipping industry with a novel approach to tackle emissions without compromising cargo efficiency and overall economy. Our technology introduces a new perspective on fossil fuels, demonstrating how they can be equally green when used innovatively.
“In addition to hydrogen as a green blend-in fuel, our byproduct, pyrolytic graphite, is also an excellent battery-grade anode material for electric cars and green steel production. This circular economy creates a powerful tool to combat global warming and climate change on both land and sea.
“Our technology also demonstrates great potential in cost-effective production of green methanol and ammonia in land-based facilities, which further provides the shipping industry with other affordable alternative fuel options."
ClassNK endorses Furuno’s HermAce Remote Monitoring & Troubleshooting Platform
ClassNK has granted its Innovation Endorsement for Products & Solutions to HermAce Remote Monitoring & Troubleshooting Platform developed by Furono Electric Co and issued a certificate to the company.
In addition, for ClassNK registered ships flagged with the Republic of the Marshall Islands (RMI), the HermAce voyage data recorder (VDR) digital twin and remote service has been accepted as an alternative to the onboard VDR Annual Performance Test (APT) by the RMI Maritime Administrator. It is now possible to conduct VDR APT remotely for those vessels.
HermAce is a solution for remotely monitoring the operational status of Furuno's navigation equipment and includes the capability to collect VDR data online. Each year a VDR requires an APT by a qualified engineer, who must visit the vessel to check the operation and record of voyage information. However, for vessels equipped with HermAce, VDR data can be extracted remotely.
HermAce’s remote diagnosis uses real-time and historical data, prepared and formatted for periodic inspections, which can be confirmed by engineers based on logs and other evidence. This enables engineers to conduct performance tests equivalent to conventional methods, even in remote locations. It is expected to reduce personnel costs by reducing the time required for engineers’ ship visits and their arrangements.
Mr. Masaki Matsunaga, Corporate Officer / Director of Plan Approval Technical Solution Division, ClassNK said: “ClassNK is delighted to issue the fourth Innovation Endorsement certificate for Furuno’s solution. Thanks to the forward-looking flag administration and manufacturer, shipping companies can now use the new option to prepare for a statutory requirement. To contribute to the spread of innovative technologies pursing safety, efficiency, and sustainability, ClassNK will further strengthen comprehensive certification services, including Innovation Endorsement, and also apply the cutting-edge technology to our survey framework.”
Port of Los Angeles signs agreements with Tokyo and Yokohama ports to establish green shipping corridor
The Port of Los Angeles has entered into separate Memorandum of Understandings (MOUs) with the Port of Tokyo and the Port of Yokohama – to more formally collaborate on sustainability and environmental issues. The agreements were signed by Port of Los Angeles officials during the 2023 California Japan Clean Energy Trade Mission, led by California Lt. Gov. Eleni Kounalakis and Dee Dee Myers, Director of California Governor’s Office of Business and Economic Development.
“The MOUs signed this week between the Port of Los Angeles, the Port of Tokyo, and the Port of Yokohama epitomize the strong relationship between California and Japan and our shared commitment to tackling climate change,” said Lieutenant Governor Eleni Kounalakis. “California and Japan’s port partnership is a world-leading collaboration and a critical step towards achieving zero greenhouse gas emissions.”
“Global cooperation is critical if we are to make meaningful progress toward a cleaner and more sustainable maritime industry,” said Port of Los Angeles Executive Director Gene Seroka. “The Port of Los Angeles is proud of the role it has played in advancing port-related environmental technologies and supply chain decarbonization solutions, but we can do so much more with ports and other international stakeholders working together. I’m thrilled to be in Japan collaborating with our long-time partners at the ports of Tokyo and Yokohama. ”
"In 2021, leaders from the QUAD, a strategic alliance that includes Japan, the United States, Australia and India, agreed to collaborate on a green shipping network,” said Hiroya Nakano, Director General of the Port of Yokohama. “Today we are pleased to further our work on this challenge in partnership with the Port of Los Angeles, with whom we’ve have built a longstanding friendship."
"The Port of Los Angeles is our largest partner in Japan, and the work to decarbonize shipping is very important to both ports,” said Shinya Hitomi, President and CEO, Yokohama-Kawasaki International Port Corporation. “This agreement is a significant step forward as we work toward a common goal.”
“This action strengthens our fruitful relationship and will further enhance the sustainability and development of our ports,” said Toshiki Yaoka, Port of Tokyo Director General.
The MOUs with the two ports call for cooperation and sharing of best practices on environmental and sustainability initiatives, including the digitation of the supply chain to optimize efficiency and reduce port operational impacts.
Both the ports of Tokyo and Yokohama also agreed to establish a Green Shipping Corridor (GSC) partnership with the Port of Los Angeles in the coming year, an initiative aimed at reducing emissions along their respective trade routes and promoting low- and zero-carbon ships and fuels. The Port of Los Angeles has already established GSC partnerships with the ports of Shanghai and Singapore.
In addition to strengthening trade routes, maritime operational supply chain efficiencies and environmental sustainability, other specific areas of cooperation identified under the two agreements include the testing and deployment of zero-emission vehicles, cargo handling equipment and vessels; exploring energy use and alternative energy sources; and cooperating on initiatives related to pollution-reduction technologies for terminals, ocean-going vessels and drayage trucks.
The Port of Los Angeles and Port of Yokohama have a long history of cooperation, dating back to a trade agreement signed in 1969 to strengthen trade routes between the two ports. The Port of Los Angeles and Port of Tokyo formalized a Sister Port relationship in 1987.
The weeklong 2023 California Japan Clean Energy Trade Mission began March 11, and is targeting businesses in the clean energy sector to explore solutions related to climate change, renewable energy, zero-emission technologies, among other sustainable products and services.
Guidelines published for marine casualty claims
New guidelines have been agreed by marine insurers in the London Market to help improve collaboration in the handling of shipping casualties. A protocol document seeks to promote more effective communication between different parties involved in responding to resulting insurance claims. It has been drafted by the IUA / LMA Joint Marine Claims Committee (JMCC) and the International Group of P&I Clubs (IG).
Amy Dallaway, Chair of the JMCC, said: “There is clearly a huge benefit to all parties by having effective early engagement between insurers and shipowners involved in major casualties, particularly where pressing decisions are required. There are many advantages in understanding the concerns of all interested parties and this collaborative approach will result in clearer lines of communication and will assist in the efficient management of claims.”
The ‘Guidelines for casualty liaison between the JMCC and IG’ establish a high-level structure to facilitate initial contact between London Market underwriters and individual P&I clubs. They also outline minimum details that should be sought for each case.
Ben Harris, Chair of the IG Salvage Committee, said: “The Guidelines are an important step forward, providing a clear framework for property underwriters and the International Group of P&I Clubs to work closely together in the interest of the assured in a casualty situation. By sharing information and knowledge we can ensure that all stakeholders are aware of what is happening and to the extent possible, there is joined up decision making that avoids delay and ensures the best possible response to a casualty, especially where there is a risk to life, property and the environment.”
Copies of the guidelines are available from the websites of the IUA and IG.
UK Transport Committee critiques Government’s Maritime 2050 strategy
The Transport Committee of the UK Parliament has published a report on the Government’s Maritime 2050 strategy, calling for investment in new technology, cleaner fuels and workforce training so that the UK’s sector can compete with the world.
The cross-party Committee’s new report critiques the Department for Transport’s (DfT) Maritime 2050 strategy, published in 2019. It was praised at the time for taking a decades-long view, which is critical when vessels and infrastructure vary between countries and are built with lifespans of 30 years.
However, the strategy has since been criticised for lacking distinction between aspirations and actions to be taken. The Committee makes a number of recommendations on how to help both the sector and ministers achieve the strategy’s aims.
Transport Committee Chair Iain Stewart (pictured) said: “All the evidence we received about the UK’s maritime sector has shown it is resilient, entrepreneurial, and used to working independently from government. Nonetheless, there is an array of things government should do to support the sector and help it achieve its ambitions to decarbonise and remain a positive force on the world stage and for the UK economy.
“We commend the Government for being forward thinking in developing the Maritime 2050 strategy, but clarity and focus are needed to refine its muddle of 184 recommendations.
“The sector will need sustained support to overcome the challenge of radically cutting carbon emissions. We urge ministers to bring forward the promised Clean Maritime Plan, which will give industry the certainty it needs to invest in technology, new vessels, infrastructure and low-carbon shore power. Without it, we will fall behind other countries and miss our net zero targets.
“People make the maritime sector. Many will be supportive of the Government’s plans to enforce the UK minimum wage equivalent for seafarers who frequently work here, albeit on ships registered abroad, but this will not be sufficient to ensure proper treatment of seafarers. We urge the Government to bring forward its promised welfare charter as soon as possible and make it mandatory for UK operators.
“And while enforcing fairer wages should help repair the sector’s reputation after the shocking practices seen by P&O Ferries, we heard a lot needs to be done to raise the sector’s profile as a career option among young people, women and those from diverse backgrounds.
“More attention should also be paid to a problem seen in many sectors – skilling up older workers who may otherwise be left behind by the pace of technological changes. Autonomous vessels, for example, also require new regulation to clarify the skills that are needed.”
Viridis Bulk Carriers receives AiP from Bureau Veritas for innovative ammonia-powered short sea bulk vessel
Bureau Veritas has issued an Approval in Principle (AiP) to Viridis Bulk Carriers, supporting a new standard for zero carbon short sea bulk logistics by utilizing ammonia as fuel.
The approval is an important step towards being able to order the first series of vessels. Viridis Bulk Carriers expect to place orders for ships during 2023, with deliveries starting in 2025.
“Bureau Veritas class approval in principle helps provide the confidence needed to support this ammonia as fuel project and we warmly welcome the initiative and ambition from Viridis Bulk Carriers,” says Herman Spilker, Vice President at Bureau Veritas Marine & Offshore, North Europe Zone.
The Viridis vessels have been designed with the customer in focus and close collaboration with client partners and key suppliers. The company has collaborated with the eight charterers in the 'Flexbulk NH3 Ammonia Power' consortium project to ensure that cargo capacities and operational capabilities are just as future-proof as the power technology and emissions reductions. The vessel design is by Kongsberg Maritime.
Viridis Bulk Carriers is also a consortium member of ‘Ammonia Fuel Bunkering Networ’”, which will build a bunkering network in Scandinavia in collaboration with Yara, which has pre-ordered an additional 15 bunkering terminals for the Scandinavian market. This ensures delivery security for ammonia fuel to the Viridis Bulk Carriers fleet.
“We are very pleased with the co-operation we have had with Bureau Veritas through the approval process.,” says Espen Nordstrøm at Viridis Bulk Carriers. “The approval in principle from Bureau Veritas is a major milestone for Viridis and will enable us to move towards the newbuilding phase.
“With EU and IMO increasing their emission reduction targets, the Viridis vessels will comply with these and be able to provide charterers with superior greenhouse gas reductions in their logistical value chain.”
Maersk launches Europe-China air freight service to add further agility to customer supply chains
A.P. Moller - Maersk (Maersk) announces the inaugural flight of the logistics company´s new air freight service with scheduled flights between Billund, Denmark (BLL) and Hangzhou, China (HGH). The company says the new service is responding to increasing customer demand.
The scheduled Eurasia operation will commence 20 March with three weekly flights introducing the first of three newly converted Boeing 767-300 freighters that have recently been purchased for Maersk Air Cargo. All Europe-China flights will be operated by Maersk´s internal cargo airline.
“With the introduction of our new service between Europe and China, we have taken another leap with our customers in providing true integrated logistics. We want to ensure that our customers have the visibility, reliability, and resilience in their supply chains. In this, air freight with scheduled flights and controlled capacity represents a crucial part of our customers´ end-to-end logistics needs,” says Michel Pozas Lucic, Global Head of Air in A.P. Moller – Maersk.
The inaugural flight also marks the first scheduled air cargo operation between Denmark and Asia. The corridor from Billund Airport is expected to significantly increase access for high value and time sensitive cargo between Scandinavia, Northern Europe, and the entire Asia-Pacific.
Furthermore, Maersk’s newly opened air freight hub at Billund Airport in Denmark enables customers to avoid congestion and delays that are usually seen in larger airports. In addition, the proximity of aircraft parking apron to Maersk’s airport warehouse facility, allows better control and faster cargo clearance.
The airport facility in Billund houses a fully equipped, 4000 m² import and 13,000 m² export facility. Separate areas for cold storage, dangerous goods, scanning and ULD handling. Billund airport will have a Maersk Air cargo team with pilots and aircraft maintenance staff, a flight operations team and a freight forwarding team all available to secure reliability for Maersk customers.
With Maersk Air Cargo, Maersk is on a journey to provide customers with unique end-to-end air freight services through own controlled capacity and a global network of scheduled flights.
Maersk also recently launched a new air freight service with scheduled flights between Greenville-Spartanburg, South Carolina (GSP) and Incheon, Korea (ICN) operated by Miami-headquartered cargo airline Amerijet International.
In addition, Maersk opened a new Chicago air freight gateway facility to add more supply chain integration opportunities for customers using Chicago O’Hare International and Rockford International.
BV-classed hybrid ferries with battery and solar power to be deployed in Hong Kong
Bureau Veritas (BV) has announced that it will class two hybrid double hull, double end ferries, which will be equipped with battery and solar power technology for operation in Hong Kong.
Designed by CoCo Yachts, a Dutch naval architect design and development company, the Urban Sprinters 1000 vessels will be operated by Sun Ferry Services Company Limited. They will transport around 4 million passengers a year between Central Pier and Cheung Chau Pier, in Hong Kong domestic waters.
Both Urban Sprinter 1000 ferries will be built by YaGuang Technology Co. Ltd in Zhuhai, China, and will have an aluminium hull and superstructure. The first vessel will be built with hybrid diesel-electric propulsion and will be zero emission when sailing within pier boundaries as well as during berthing. The second vessel will be built with diesel-electric propulsion. Both ferries will have a battery pack for overnight energy to avoid diesel generators running.
Each vessel will be fitted with four IMO tier III diesel generators, of which three will typically be in service, and one will be on standby. The service speed will be 16 knots. The vessels will also be equipped with four Azimuth L-type thrusters, each fitted with a PM electric motor.
The third deck will be an open area accessible to passengers for sightseeing purposes. The area will be partly covered by solar panels, which will help to reduce the vessel’s overall emissions. The ships have been designed to offer luxurious and functional passenger accommodation on the main and upper deck, and minimise noise and vibration levels.
The design and building of the vessel will be surveyed and certified by Bureau Veritas. All flag related items, including safety and stability will be delegated from Hong Kong Marine Department to BV. Previous projects with similar delegated works have proven to be an efficient and reliable method.
The first Urban Sprinter 1000 hybrid is expected to be delivered in Q2 2024, while the second vessel will be delivered in Q1 2025.
Alex Gregg-Smith, Senior Vice President & Chief Executive, North Asia and China at Bureau Veritas Marine & Offshore, said: “BV is very proud to play a significant role in this partnership with CoCo Yachts, Guang Technology and Sun Ferry, to deliver these innovative ferries for Hong Kong domestic waters. BV is honoured to support the project from its inception, providing full plan approval and design support, and we are happy to help advance innovation that is much needed to achieve a carbon neutral and sustainable future.”
Master Mariner becomes LMAA’s newest Full Member
The London Maritime Arbitrators Association (LMAA) has elected Captain Keith Hart RD as a Full Member. After serving at sea and working as a chief officer/stability technician and master on offshore vessels and semi-submersible drilling units, Keith practised as a consultant, including posts as director and COO.
A retired Commander, Royal Naval Reserve, Capt. Hart (pictured) is a Past Master of the Honourable Company of Master Mariners, a Younger Brother of Trinity House and a Fellow of the Chartered Institute of Arbitrators, the Royal Institute of Navigation and the Nautical Institute.
LMAA President David Steward said: “The LMAA is proud of the diverse backgrounds of its arbitrators, who include engineers, mariners, brokers and lawyers. Keith brings with him a wealth of seagoing and technical expertise which are valuable to users of arbitration and other forms of dispute resolution. We are delighted to welcome him to the Full Membership.”
MSC teams up with GCMD to accelerate industry efforts to decarbonise
MSC and the Global Centre for Maritime Decarbonisation (GCMD) have announced the signing of a five-year Impact Partnership agreement.
This agreement sees MSC, the world’s largest shipping line combine forces and industry expertise with GCMD. GCMD, strategically located in Singapore, the world’s largest bunkering hub and second largest container port, aims to help the industry eliminate GHG emissions by shaping standards for future fuels, financing first-of-a-kind projects, and piloting low-carbon solutions in an end-to-end manner under real-world operations conditions.
MSC has 730 vessels and the industry’s largest newbuilding orderbook of energy-efficient container ships. The family-owned business has been working on energy efficiency for many years and has been an early adopter of responsibly sourced blended biofuels as a transitional fuel. MSC has advocated for the availability of supply of a range of alternative fuels and has set a clear goal to achieve net decarbonization by 2050.
By joining forces with GCMD, MSC is strengthening its commitment towards a collaborative approach to decarbonization. As an Impact Partner, MSC will provide cash contribution towards GCMD’s pooled resources for pilots and trials. MSC will also make in-kind contributions through its participation in projects, including access to vessels, operational equipment, and other assets, as well as vessel operating data and evaluation reports so their learnings can help inform GCMD’s future trials.
Decarbonizing shipping is the biggest challenge facing the maritime sector and one which can only be achieved by commitment, concrete action and investment by shipping companies, their customers, ports, energy suppliers and public sector actors.
Bud Darr, Executive Vice President Maritime Policy & Government Affairs MSC Group, said: “We are committed to helping to tackle climate change and in GCMD we believe we have found an excellent partner to help drive the green transition in our sector. We look forward to exchanging ideas, information and access to our substantial expertise and assets, to help accelerate progress towards the net zero future we all aspire to.”
On welcoming MSC as GCMD’s Impact Partner, Professor Lynn Loo, CEO of the Global Centre for Maritime Decarbonisation, said: “Despite current economic uncertainties, decarbonising shipping will need liners – who are closest to customers willing to pay a green premium – to make hard commitments for the industry to progress towards IMO’s 2030 and 2050 goals. With MSC coming onboard as our newest Impact Partner, GCMD is now in a stronger position to drive decarbonisation solutions across the industry.”
The announcement of the MSC-GCMD partnership in another example of how MSC has advocated on the importance of industry collaboration and knowledge-sharing to meet the industry’s decarbonization targets.
The Global Centre for Maritime Decarbonisation (GCMD) was set up on 1 August 2021 as a non-profit organisation. GCMD’s strategic partners include the Maritime and Port Authority of Singapore (MPA), BHP, BW Group, Eastern Pacific Shipping, Foundation Det Norske Veritas, Ocean Network Express, Sembcorp Marine, bp and Hapag Lloyd. Beyond the strategic partners, GCMD has brought onboard 13 impact, coalition and knowledge partners that engage at the centre level, in addition to numerous other partners that engage at the projects level.
A. P. Moller - Maersk to divest Maersk Supply Service
A.P. Moller - Maersk (Maersk) has reached an agreement with A.P. Moller Holding, the parent company of the A.P. Moller Group, for an intended divestment of Maersk Supply Service (MSS), a leading provider of global offshore marine services and project solutions for the energy sector.
“We are very pleased to see Maersk Supply Service will be able to continue to further develop new solutions for the green transition of the offshore sector under a new long-term ownership. This transaction validates the excellent work done by the team in the last years. At the same time, it marks the completion of our initial decision to divest all energy related activities and focus on truly integrated logistics”, says Patrick Jany, CFO at A.P. Moller - Maersk.
In 2016, Maersk adopted its new strategy around integrated logistics and a separation of the existing energy related activities was initiated. Maersk Tankers, Maersk Oil & Gas and Maersk Drilling were divested in the period 2017-2019. Today with the intended sale of Maersk Supply Service the final divestment of the energy related activities will be completed.
“The capabilities and vessels Maersk Supply Service have built over more than 50 years supporting the oil and gas energy industry are much needed within offshore renewable energy, especially in the wind industry,” says Martin Larsen, CFO at A.P. Moller Holding. “As new owners we will drive a transition of Maersk Supply Service to over time become a leading offshore marine company servicing the offshore wind industry.
“At the same time, we are pleased that this concludes the separation of energy related activities from A.P. Moller – Maersk as initiated in 2016.”
Maersk Supply Service will continue trading under its current name and will be using the Maersk seven-pointed star logo as part of its brand.
The transaction includes a pioneering wind installation vessel, which when finalised will establish Maersk Supply Service as a leading offshore wind contractor.
As the transaction is between related parties, a fairness opinion has been obtained from DNB Bank ASA. The fairness opinion confirms that the transaction value, $685m, is fair from a financial point of view.
Gard withstands market turbulence to deliver standout insurance results
Gard has presented its annual results and its second integrated annual report, showing that the group has delivered its best insurance performance in 15 years. Challenging investment markets meant that results overall ended close to break even.
Gard’s reporting period was slightly shorter than usual this year, as the Board of Directors decided to change the financial year. Going forward it will coincide with the calendar year instead of running from February to February. The 2022 results thus cover a transition period of roughly ten months, from 21 February to 31 December 2022.
The results for this period were as follows – all numbers on an Estimated Total Call (ETC) basis:
• Gross written premium of USD 995 million
• Combined ratio net of 81 per cent
• Technical result of USD 149.8 million
• Non-technical loss of USD 149.3 million
• Profit after tax of USD USD 1.7 million
• Equity reserves of USD 1,260 million
The report also highlighted that Gard is the world’s first specialised marine insurer to receive a gold rating from Ecovadis, a leading rating agency assessing companies’ corporate responsibility and ESG performance.
Gard CEO, Rolf Thore Roppestad said: “I am delighted to see that Gard continues to deliver strong results, offering stability, sustainability and financial strength for the benefit of our Members and clients.
“It has been a turbulent year, both operationally and in terms of financial markets, so it has not been straightforward. Still, we have focused on the fundamentals and delivered fantastic insurance results – the best we have seen in 15 years. In fact, all five lines of business have delivered positive results. In a volatile business like ours, that is quite extraordinary.
“The strong results were driven primarily by a lower level of major claims, combined with disciplined underwriting and good claims handling. Both Gard and its Members and clients run high-quality operations, which is what is being reflected in these results.”
Even though the reporting period was two months shorter than usual, the group’s gross written premium was almost the same as in the previous period, when it surpassed USD 1 billion for the first time. Looking at the full calendar year 2022, the gross written premium was USD 1,167 million.
Roppestad said: “Overall, Gard remains well capitalised and financially robust. That is why it was agreed to give a five per cent Owners’ General Discount (OGD) to mutual entries that renewed with Gard for the 2023 policy year. For our owners, this means approximately USD 23 million in savings. With this, we continue to help and support our Members and clients in uncertain times, focusing on staying robust and well-placed to face the future.”
IMO completes 100 audits under Member State Audit Scheme
One hundred of IMO's 175 Member States and three associated Members have now been audited under IMO's Member State Audit Scheme. The milestone was reached in March 2023. The audits continue to be rolled out, with 23 audits scheduled to be completed during 2023 and 25 in 2024. The first audit cycle is set to be completed by 2025.
The Scheme became mandatory in January 2016 and covers a number of important IMO treaties relating to safety, marine protection and seafarer training. Audit teams are formed from qualified officials, nominated as auditors by IMO Member States, and Audit Officers from the IMO Secretariat, where necessary.
IMO's Tatjana Krilic, Acting Head, Department of Member State Audit and Implementation Support, said: "We are pleased to reach this important milestone. We are grateful to the Member States for showing their commitment to the audits, through their preparation for their own audits and in nominating qualified officials and making them available for audits of other Member States."
The outcome of the audits to date has played an important role in identifying and addressing areas where Member States can improve their performance. The audit process enables Member States to implement corrective actions identified by the audit. In addition, audits provide feedback on lessons learned which can be shared with all Member States, and audits analysis enables IMO to identify areas for future regulatory and technical assistance work.
EU ban on Russian coal fires up Capesize demand: MSI
Capesize freight rates are set for a period of upside volatility as the fallout from the war in Ukraine continues to spread across the energy markets, reports analyst Maritime Strategies International (MSI).
In its latest quarterly dry bulk market outlook, MSI points to the re-routeing of Russian exports to new destinations as a result of the EU ban on imports. At the same time imports to Europe are also travelling longer distances to reach the bloc from other sources.
With Russian exports subject to the European Union’s import ban, Russia has re-routed those flows to other destinations, in particular China, India and Turkey, a structural change to major coal trade that MSI believes will persist over its forecast horizon.
This is having a significant impact on the average distances over which Russian coal is being transported with the average laden distance for Russian coal cargoes increasing from 2,000-2,500km in 2018-20 to around 4,000km now (see graph, last 5 years). Away from any impact on Russian coal volumes, this suggests a near doubling of the shipping capacity required by the Russian coal trade.
While this is significant by itself, the impact on the freight markets is likely to be further amplified by the shift of that trade towards Capesize vessels. While only approximately 10% of the Russian coal trade was previously served by the Capesize market, that proportion is now closer to 25%.
Given the typical seasonality in the coal trade, and the potential for short-term geopolitical shifts in the Russian coal trade in particular, these factors are likely to contribute to an increase in the volatility of Capesize utilisation rates.
With Europe at the epicentre of a global energy crisis since the withdrawal of Russian gas supplies, elevated demand for coal in Europe will persist for some time yet. MSI maintains an optimistic outlook for coal trade this year, forecasting growth of 2.7% yoy. Its expectations of a further increase in volumes is underpinned by persistent strong import incentives.
“The war in Ukraine is continuing to have disruptive effects on the dry bulk commodities markets and therefore dry bulk shipping, in this case the larger ship classes will be the ones to benefit,” says Plamen Natzkoff, Associate Director, Dry Bulk Commodities, MSI. “There are of course risks to this forecast but the shipping demand trend is likely to be only re-enforced by Europe’s increased reliance on coal imports which it must secure from longer-distance sources.”
Nobel-winning economist Joseph E. Stiglitz announced as keynote speaker at Nor-Shipping
Nor-Shipping has confirmed that Joseph E. Stiglitz, the renowned Nobel laureate in Economics and former Chief Economist at the World Bank, will be a keynote speaker at this year’s Ocean Leadership Conference, taking place in Lillestrøm, Norway, 6 June. The event, which traditionally fires the starting gun for Nor-Shipping’s main exhibition, will gather global industry leaders to hear insights from an array of ‘star names’ from the world of ocean business and beyond. The theme of this year’s conference is #PartnerShip.
Stiglitz, who won the Nobel Prize for Economics in 2001, will top the bill with a sweeping presentation that delivers a ‘big picture’ snapshot of today’s increasing complexity – taking in macroeconomics, geopolitical impacts and the energy transition. As with the other speakers, and the whole of Nor-Shipping 2023, enabling and supporting #PartnerShip will be a natural focal point.
“We’re thrilled to confirm a speaker of Joseph Stiglitz’s calibre and international standing,” comments Knut Erik Dahle, Nor-Shipping Head of Conference and Event. “He has near ‘living legend’ status within the field of finance and economics, with insights and expertise that offer value to anyone with an active interest in how to understand, and navigate, a world of accelerating developments and evolving opportunity.
“The Ocean Leadership Conference is a key gathering place for this industry’s decisionmakers, so it’s imperative we deliver a line-up of the highest quality. I’m delighted to say we’re well on the way to building a truly memorable collection of diverse, fascinating participants, with more major international names to be released soon. Tickets, as always, will be in short supply.”
Alongside the US economist, other key names include Espen Barth Eide, Norway's Minister of Climate and Environment, who will open the conference, and Guy Platten, Secretary General, International Chamber of Shipping. Kjerstin Braathen, CEO, DNB, and Remi Eriksen, Group President and CEO, DNV Group, will join Stiglitz for a discussion investigating the business opportunity inherent within maritime’s energy transition.
Further high-level participants include Bo Cerup-Simonsen, CEO, Mærsk Mc-Kinney Møller Center for Zero Carbon Shipping, Lynn Loo, CEO, Global Centre for Maritime Decarbonisation, and Lasse Kristoffersen, CEO, Wallenius Wilhelmsen.
Together they will discuss topics ranging from ‘partnerships for the future’ through to ‘enabling the maritime turning point’. The issues, and the participants, could not be more relevant for an industry, and a world, transitioning to a new tomorrow, notes Sidsel Norvik, Director, Nor-Shipping.
“It’s always so exciting to see these events take shape,” Norvik comments, “watching as they work to mirror the developments shaping our world at present, while providing unique insights into the challenges and opportunities of tomorrow.
“The speakers are always a major attraction, and this year will be no exception! But it’s also important to recognise the role the conference has as a networking event for c-level executives. There’s no other event, anywhere, that attracts this audience, so it really is a ‘must’ for our most ambitious industry players. It’s also, without doubt, a great way to get the Nor-Shipping week started!”
According to organisers, the 22,000m2 of exhibition space on offer at Nor-Shipping 2023 is almost sold-out, with expectations that this could be “the biggest ever” outing for Your Arena for Ocean Solutions. In addition to the Ocean Leadership Conference, a range of themed conferences will offer “something for everyone”, while a host of social, networking and knowledge sharing activities is now being finalised. Stand-out events include the first ever Nor-Shipping Offshore Wind and Offshore Aquaculture Conferences, alongside the Ocean Leadership Conference, the Second Maritime Hydrogen Conference, and the Fourth International Autonomy Summit.
Entrance tickets have now been released, with an early-bird discount available prior to 1 May. Included in the price is free use of public transport in Oslo (Zone 1) and between the Lillestrøm exhibition centre, entrance to all the exhibition days, access to the After Work @Aker Brygge social scene in Oslo, and entrance to all Technical Seminars and Blue Talks.
For the full Nor-Shipping 2023 programme, and all ticket details, please see www.nor-shipping.com
Peel Ports expands presence on UK East Coast with acquisition of Humber Bulk Terminal
HES International has concluded the sale of HES (UK) Ltd. along with its subsidiaries HES Humber Bulk Terminal Ltd. and HES Humber Shipping Ltd. to Liverpool-based Peel Ports Group.
HES Humber Bulk Terminal is situated on the south bank of The Humber estuary in the UK and is a specialist in the safe and efficient handling and storage of a variety of dry bulk products. Following a strategic review of its investment in the terminal in 2021, HES International determined Peel Ports Group – the second largest port group in the UK – would be well positioned to develop the site’s attractive expansion potential.
HES Humber Bulk Terminal currently employs 29 people, all of whom will be retained by Peel Ports Group as part of the acquisition, the term of which were not disclosed.
Cees van Gent, CEO of HES International, said: “Peel Ports has a long and outstanding history in the safe handling of cargo from across the globe and plays an integral role in customer supply chains. They are a reputable market player in the UK and we are confident that they will support HES Humber Bulk Terminal to build on its successful history.
“Proceeds from the sale will be reinvested in energy transition related projects that are pivotal for the long-term, sustainable growth and transformation of HES.”
Claudio Veritiero, CEO of Peel Ports Group, said: “The HES Humber Bulk Terminal acquisition is an important investment for Peel Ports Group, which expands our presence in the North of England and brings Peel Ports Logistics’ ‘One-Stop-Shop’ service to the East Coast.
“The modern facilities at the HES Humber Bulk Terminal guarantee fast and efficient loading and unloading of vessels and trucks, while the excellent water and road connections enable quick and smooth operations. This, combined with the outstanding storage capabilities, will make the site a brilliant addition to Peel Ports Logistics, helping us to deliver efficient and cost-effective port services for our customers.”
EU’s Net-Zero Industry Act must recognise strategic importance of Shipping, urges CSC
Last week, the European Commission proposed the Net-Zero Industry Act to scale up the manufacturing of clean technologies in the EU and make sure the Union is well-equipped with net-zero technologies for the clean-energy transition.
This initiative is part of the Green Deal Industrial Plan and will contribute to the European Green Deal objectives, contributing to both the 2030 climate and energy targets and to the 2050 objective of climate neutrality.
The Cyprus Shipping Chamber (CSC) welcomes the EU’s proposed Net-Zero Industry Act. The Act could play a critical role in efforts to enhance Europe’s security, competitiveness, and autonomy.
In this respect, the new Act must properly recognise the strategic role of shipping, especially in Europe’s security. The shipping industry is a cornerstone of European security: energy security, food security, security of supply of goods.
This is also a unique opportunity for Europe to foster the sector’s competitiveness. Shipping remains one of the most important means of trade for the Member States of the EU. Nowadays, ships carry more than half the value of goods imports to the EU and over 40 percent of goods exports from the EU. To maintain the competitiveness of its shipping industry, the EU should continue to control a sizeable merchant ship fleet that needs to keep expanding every year.
Decarbonisation is a huge challenge for shipping and the upscaling of affordable low- and zero-carbon fuels and technologies for the sector is key. As such, renewable fuels of non-biological origin (RFNBOs) should be included within the Act’s definition of ‘strategic net-zero technologies’, so that dedicated production capacity can be swiftly developed.
The inclusion of offshore renewable technologies and Carbon Capture and Storage (CCS) technologies in the list of strategic net-zero technologies is a step in the right direction but there are further initiatives that could contribute towards developing dedicated industrial capacity for marine fuels. The proposed Act could be the kick-start for the development of a European supply chain mechanism for clean marine fuels and technologies which is so much needed for meeting the sector’s and the EU’s decarbonisation objectives at large.
Canada-UK digitisation project set to support fleet operators achieve emissions targets
Leading Canadian maritime operations platform provider, Helm Operations, is partnering with Bristol-based Reygar to harness the benefits of digitisation as part of the global effort to reduce the maritime sector’s carbon footprint.
The collaborative research and development initiative, jointly funded via Innovate UK’s 2022 ‘Canada-UK Zero Value Chains – Transportation’ call and the National Research Council of Canada, will pave the way towards lower carbon emissions and reduced operating costs for tug and workboat fleet operators worldwide.
The partners aim to achieve this by further developing the integration between Reygar’s BareFLEET vessel performance monitoring technology and the Helm CONNECT fleet management modules, with an on-vessel link up between Reygar’s telematics unit and the Helm CONNECT user interface.
The project builds on existing co-operation between Reygar and Helm, who partnered in 2022 to support the roll out of BareFLEET to global marine, energy and logistics provider, Crowley. Crowley worked closely with Reygar and Helm on system integrations to generate essential maintenance, fuel and emissions data, empowering crews and fleet managers to adopt more efficient, fuel saving operational practices. Since then, other mutual customers have successfully adopted Helm CONNECT and BareFLEET integration for more streamlined and effective fleet management.
Nolan Barclay, Helm Operations CEO, commented: "Our partnership with Reygar has been incredibly positive from the start and we're thrilled to be building on the foundation that has already proven to be successful for many of our customers. The use of IoT sensor readings and automation to enhance technical asset management is already showing value in our market and we're excited that this new integration between BareFLEET and Helm CONNECT will address the growing need for emission reductions and ESG reporting."
Chris Huxley-Reynard, Reygar CEO, said: “This project takes our work to date with the team at Helm to the next level. By enhancing the integration between these two widely used systems, we can enable fleet operators and busy workboat crews to tap into greater efficiency gains with live data and feedback, generated onboard by BareFLEET and available directly from the familiar Helm CONNECT interface. This data can be used to reduce the environmental impact of offshore tasks in real time, without adding to anyone’s workload.”
The project addresses a key technological challenge for the global marine sector, which has tough targets to meet in its drive towards net zero emissions. The initial scope of work is expected to be complete by May 2024.
NAPA calls for proactive approach to IMO’s Carbon Intensity Indicator as it launches CII Simulator tool
Global maritime software and data services provider NAPA has urged the shipping industry to take a proactive approach to the IMO’s Carbon Intensity Indicator (CII), making the most of digital platforms that enable charterers and owners to work collaboratively towards compliance and reduce greenhouse gas emissions.
This comes as NAPA has launched its CII Simulator, a module of the NAPA Fleet Intelligence platform, during CMA Shipping in Stamford, United States. The new tool uses a ship’s digital twin, together with data on its past and current routes and performance, to predict its CII rating for every sea passage or for any desired date during the year, such as at the end of the year, or after a given chartering period.
Crucially, NAPA CII Simulator can simulate the impact of different energy efficiency measures and operational profiles, such as weather routing or slow steaming, on a vessel’s CII rating. The tool can also model the effect of installing energy saving devices and hull cleaning, providing further clarity on what measures will deliver the most impact for a specific vessel.
EVP of NAPA Shipping Solutions Pekka Pakkanen insisted on the central role of digital tools to help the industry work collaboratively and navigate the new paradigms of CII: “New regulations call for new ways of working, with digital solutions providing the objective insights needed to bring all stakeholders on the same page. While a degree of uncertainty remains about the full implications and implementation of CII, one thing is certain: if we are to make CII a success, we need collaboration, especially between shipowners and charterers.
“To make this collaboration happen in practice, they need a common platform where they can develop a shared understanding of how a vessel’s CII evolves throughout the year, and what can be done about it. This is where our NAPA CII Simulator comes in, delivering reliable analyses and predictions that help them make the best possible operational decisions together to improve the ship’s performance, and boost or maintain its CII,” Mr Pakkanen continued.
Developed by NAPA in collaboration with owners and charterers, the new CII Simulator will be an important tool to help action CII clauses in charter party agreements. By delivering reliable analyses of the causes behind a vessel’s performance, the tool will help avoid disputes and ensure that contractual obligations are met. NAPA CII Simulator has been welcomed by both owners and charterers, with early partners in the project already using it actively.
Commenting on the new development, Ossi Mettälä, Sales Manager at NAPA Shipping Solutions, added: “This new module carves a clear path towards CII compliance, bringing a much-needed fact-based picture of every ship’s performance. Acknowledging the newly found shared responsibility for CII between shipowners and charterers, NAPA CII Simulator serves as a neutral platform where stakeholders can make sustainability, commercial and efficiency-focused decisions with greater confidence. This enables them to take a proactive and prompt approach to CII compliance, but also to their decarbonization journey more broadly.
“While it’s still early days for CII, it’s clear that the industry will have to significantly change its ways of working to create real positive impact for the planet. At NAPA, we are proud to help the industry navigate this change with the launch of NAPA CII Simulator module to help the industry reduce its emissions while continuing to make commercially viable decisions.”
Optimarin expands BWTS manufacturing into China amid growing newbuild demand
Optimarin is establishing a manufacturing base in China to boost the availability of its well-proven ballast water treatment system (BWTS) for the Asian shipbuilding market as it also targets further retrofits of the existing fleet.
The leading Norwegian BWTS supplier is now pursuing partnerships with several Chinese suppliers to focus on high-quality production of BWTS components at reasonable cost for delivery to regional yards, according to Optimarin’s Executive Vice President Sales & Marketing Tore Andersen.
“We are conducting due diligence when selecting new suppliers to verify that components meet our required high-quality standards and thereby ensure the proven reliability of our robust system is maintained, while making it available at a reasonable price as we expand in this market,” he says.
“In addition, we are keeping our ‘dual-supplier strategy’ in place to mitigate the risks of potential delivery issues, and make sure we can get systems and components to our customers on time.”
Andersen believes Optimarin is well-placed to secure newbuild orders for its BWTS as the flexible modular system can be easily installed on all types of vessels - with installation costs in many cases around half of other systems - and typically has minimal commissioning issues.
The so-called Optimarin Ballast System, which can be delivered as a compact skid-mounted solution, comes with a full documentation package and verified compliance with the IMO’s Ballast Water Management Convention, as well as with US Coast Guard type approval.
The shipbuilding industry has seen a resurgence of ordering activity as global trade has rebounded in the wake of the coronavirus pandemic, with an increasing shift towards green-fuelled newbuilds due to new environmental regulations.
Lower-cost Asian yards - mainly in China, South Korea and Japan - have secured 70% to 80% of orders for vessels in various segments including containerships, bulkers, tankers and LNG carriers that are currently under construction, with scheduled delivery in the 2025-27 timeframe.
Andersen points out that these newbuilds will have to be delivered with an IMO-compliant BWTS installed to meet regulatory requirements.
China has emerged as the dominant player among the big three shipbuilding countries, having secured nearly half of all newbuild orders in recent years.
Andersen believes having a local supplier presence in China will give Optimarin a “big market advantage” in terms of competitive price and short delivery time for yards, while it also provides expertise in the project development phase and can assist with a ballast water management plan.
“The main priorities for yards with a BWTS supplier are the ability to deliver on time and at the lowest cost. But we are also seeing a growing tendency where shipowners determine which system they want installed due to historic reliability issues they may have had with other systems,” he says.
“Furthermore, having in place a global after-sales network for BWTS maintenance and support is also an increasing priority for shipowners to ensure operational uptime.
“Consequently, Optimarin is now taking orders in the newbuild market where especially European owners are looking for reliable systems with low operational cost and a strong service network.”
He says the company has fast and responsive 24/7 after-sales service with global coverage and spare parts availability. Its BWTS has a 2.5-year service interval, while onboard maintenance can also be performed by crew due to the simple construction of the intuitive and easy-to-operate system.
It has been further enhanced with OptiLink, a cloud-based digital application that enables real-time monitoring of the BWTS, data generation for improved planning of ballasting operations and remote connectivity for online software updates of the system, as well as data-sharing for compliance.
Optimarin is meanwhile still focusing on the busy retrofit market where it aims to sell as many as 700 systems over the next two years, backed up by a fast-track delivery model to meet the IMO deadline, according to Andersen.
He says the company is also seeing demand for retrofits of earlier BWTS retrofits as competing systems have fallen short of shipowners’ expectations in terms of reliability and support.
“This shows that it is important to choose the right maker from the beginning,” Andersen says, adding the company has further product expansion plans up its sleeve in the area of water treatment.
Grimaldi Group signs purchase agreement for a majority stake in Greece’s Igoumenitsa Port Authority
The Grimaldi Group companies Grimaldi Euromed and Minoan Lines, together with Investment Construction Commercial and Industrial, have signed an agreement with the Hellenic Republic Asset Development Fund (HRADF), the fund which manages the program of privatisation of ports and other public assets in Greece, to acquire 67% of the share capital of Igoumenitsa Port Authority.
Attending the share purchase signing ceremony (pictured), Greece’s Minister of Maritime Affairs and Insular Policy, Ioannis Plakiotakis, said the agreement “marks another important milestone in the course of the implementation of the strategic plan of the Greek Government for the development of the ports of our country, for the benefit of the Greek economy and local communities.”
Emanuele Grimaldi, President and Managing Director of Grimaldi Euromed, said: "We are ready and especially proud to start a new page in the story of the Igoumenitsa Port Authority. Our general goal is to have the Port of Igoumenitsa fulfil its full potential to the benefit of all its stakeholders, from maritime, transport and tourism operators to the local community.
“Our investments will facilitate the growth of the Port and, at the same time, the development of key European trade routes, of which Igoumenitsa represents the main gateway.
“Meanwhile, we will confirm our usual commitment to providing frequent and efficient liner services dedicated to the transport of freight and passengers between Igoumenitsa and Italy’s Adriatic coast, which are essential for traffic between Greece, Italy, Turkey and the entire Balkan peninsula.
“Overall, the upgrade of services in Igoumenitsa will result in more tourism, more trade flows, more local businesses, more jobs.”
Republic of the Marshall Islands sets new QUALSHIP 21 milestone of 19 consecutive years
The Republic of the Marshall Islands (RMI) has again been recognized as a high-quality registry, achieving an unprecedented 19 consecutive years on the United States Coast Guard’s (USCG’s) QUALSHIP 21 roster as noted during today’s INTERTANKO meeting in Connecticut which took place prior to the kick-off of the CMA Shipping Conference 2023.
The RMI says it is the only one of the world’s three largest registries to consistently achieve QUALSHIP 21 status. More than 1,350 RMI flagged vessels were enrolled in QUALSHIP 21 as of 14 March 2023, representing approximately one third of the QUALSHIP 21 vessels worldwide.
“We take our commitment to high-quality and safe vessel operation seriously. It is the focus of everything that we do,” said Bill Gallagher, President of International Registries, Inc. and its affiliates (IRI), which provide administrative and technical support to the RMI Registry. “We work closely with our owners, operators, and teams around the world to facilitate high levels of compliance, and actively engage in supporting our clients’ compliance efforts.”
With the industry’s significant attention on sustainability and decarbonization, IRI has enhanced resources and capabilities in key technical and customer service areas to support RMI owners and operators in compliance with forthcoming regulatory changes.
Two key personnel changes in North America: the hiring of Rafael Riva, Vice President, Client Relations, and the promotion and shifting of Tom Bremer to Vice President, Fleet Quality and Compliance, underscore the importance IRI is placing on enhancing compliance and technical capabilities for the future.
Mr Riva comes to IRI after nearly 19 years with Lloyd’s Register where he specialized in LNG and LPG and moved around the world to support their strategic interests and business development. He supports RMI owners and operators from the Houston office, working closely with IRI’s Renewables and Oil and Gas teams.
“It’s clear that the market will continue to explore and develop alternative and renewable energies,” said Simon Bonnett, Chief Maritime Officer. “Our clients need to know that their flag has the in-house technical experts and client support capabilities to answer questions and provide guidance as they determine their path to 2050. We are expanding our team to ensure we have experienced and knowledgeable resources available to them worldwide.”
Mr Bremer, originally hired in 2013, previously supported the fleet as Vice President, Investigations. Based in the Baltimore/Annapolis office, he serves as a liaison between the worldwide fleet operations teams and clients, with a focus on supporting clients’ compliance especially for fleets calling on ports in the United States. Prior to joining IRI, he served with the USCG for nearly 10 years in a variety of port State control and investigative roles.
“Compliance continues to become increasingly complex, and we saw an opportunity to provide enhanced support to our clients by creating a new position,” said Brian Poskaitis, Senior Vice President, Fleet Operations. “Tom serves as a dedicated link between operators and the flag State, not just to support individual operators, but also to be proactive in anticipating and addressing the clients’ changing needs as the compliance environment shifts.”
“Compliance is not a static achievement,” added Mr. Gallagher. “We constantly review our processes, procedures, teams, and capabilities to find ways to enhance and strengthen our fleet’s compliance. That constant striving to do better is how we have achieved this new milestone, and I am exceptionally proud of our team, owners, and operators for the collective efforts that led to this recognition.”
Ocean Technologies Group unlocks the power of its maritime HR solution Compas with new entry-level offering
The market for high-calibre seafarers is increasingly competitive, driving recruitment costs up and pushing crewing teams to breaking point. With the value of retaining existing seafarers higher than ever, larger owners and managers are taking an HR approach to their manning and crewing strategies, employing Maritime HR solutions to improve the experience of their crew and reduce pressure on the teams that support them.
The maritime HR solutions available today are often inaccessible or over complex for owners and managers operating smaller fleets, with the cost and complexity of the system outweighing the return they provide.
Responding to the market need for a more effective crew management solution that scales to deliver value at any fleet size, Ocean Technologies Group has re-engineered its maritime-specific HR platform Compas to serve all ship managers and manning agents. The new proposition also appeals to crewing teams and manning agents currently relying on time-consuming manual data entry, collation and sorting of information into spreadsheets.
The updated version of the leading maritime HR solution unlocks some of the most sought-after Compas features in an entry-level package, which can then be scaled to meet the specific requirements of any size business. Tools such as one-click compliance checks and one-click travel booking are included in the new Compas Core bundle, enabling more owners, managers and manning agents to take advantage of the leading tools for streamlining and standardising crew management.
As a cloud-first solution with automatic synchronisation between ship and shore, Compas provides crewing and manning agents with a clear and accurate view of everyone in their talent pool, including the complete visibility and validity of their certification. This vastly reduces the workload of crewing teams by removing multiple manual data entry points and minimises the opportunities for human input errors that cost money to rectify and can damage reputations in the market or relationships with seafarers.
“This evolution of Compas is a key development for Ocean Technologies Group, and it has already been well received by our customers and the wider market as they look to take advantage of the tools that were previously only assessable to larger owners and managers.”, said Thomas Zanzinger, CEO of Ocean Technologies Group.
“This development just scratches the surface of what we know is possible. As we increase the connections between our crew management, fleet management, and learning and assessment solutions, we are helping our customers to uncover new opportunities and efficiencies from having all their data in a single ecosystem. Crew availability can now be accurately forecasted months or even years in advance, with it being possible to plan recertification or upskilling in advance when it is both convenient and cost-effective,” concluded Thomas.
The self-service Compas mobile app and web portal provide Seafarers with transparency and control through easy access to their contract information, training requirements, and other HR-related information. Through the automation of a company’s manual systems and processes, Compas saves time and delivers operational efficiencies. Typically, companies can expect a return on investment within six months.
Supply chain innovation central to LISW23 as DP World comes onboard as exclusive International Logistics Sponsor
The smooth flow of world trade will be a central topic at this September’s London International Shipping Week 2023 (LISW23) thanks to support from DP World, the leading supplier of smart logistics solutions and a significant UK investor, which has come onboard as the event’s exclusive International Logistics Sponsor.
Supply chain innovation and resilience will be central to discussions during the week-long event, particularly as the shipping industry addresses international environmental concerns and evolves to deliver innovative answers to global challenges.
Ernst Schulze, UK Chief Executive of DP World said: “We are delighted to be supporting London International Shipping Week. After the disruption of recent years, shipping lines and cargo owners are looking for capacity, reliability and growth opportunities. We are providing it, enabling customers to move goods smoothly and efficiently in and out of the UK and across their supply chains.
“Over the past 10 years DP World has invested £2 billion in the UK, supporting thousands of jobs. Over the next 10 years we have earmarked a further £1 billion of investment, with a £350m new fourth berth at London Gateway now well under construction.”
DP World saw a 5% rise in the volume of trade handled by its two hubs in the UK last year, as the leading provider of smart logistics solutions continued to extend its reach further into the supply chain. London Gateway alone reported a 14% rise in volumes to 2,053,000 TEU, consolidating its position as Britain’s second biggest container terminal. Together with Southampton, the two terminals handled a record 3,850,000 TEU.
DP World exists to make the world’s trade flow better, changing what’s possible for its customers and the communities it serves globally. It is pushing the sector further and faster towards a seamless supply chain that’s fit for the future. By uniting global infrastructure with local expertise, it is also creating stronger, more efficient end-to-end solutions.
Welcoming DP World’s involvement, LISW co-founder Sean Moloney commented: “DP World’s global view of international supply chain dynamics and its experience in innovation and trade will be of great benefit to LISW’s industry-leading discussions as we contemplate crucial issues which will influence the shipping industry’s future development.”
Now in its 10th year, London International Shipping Week has become synonymous with thought leadership, providing a high-level platform for the maritime world to examine crucial issues and identify solutions. LISW23 will consider how the shipping industry reframes ‘risk’ in what has become a complex marketplace. London plays a pivotal role in global trade and is home to key hubs for many sectors of the international maritime community. During the week, LISW23 will scrutinise the world’s seaborne supply and demand dynamics as well as driving debate on how to manage commercial risk on a global scale. Decarbonisation and achieving Net Zero 2050 will also be a central topic and leading international experts will consider where are the next, tangible, opportunities for the industry to contribute to energy transition while also generating profits.
London International Shipping Week 2023 (#LISW23) will take place from September 11 to 15 throughout various locations in London and the UK. The LISW23 Headline Conference will be held at the London headquarters of the International Maritime Organization on Wednesday 13 Sept, while the glittering Gala Dinner on Thursday 14 Sept is hosted for the first time beside the River Thames at ‘Evolution London’ in Battersea Park and is scheduled to go on late into the night.
For further information about LISW23, including event details, sponsorship opportunities and delegate guidance, please see the dedicated website: www.londoninternationalshippingweek.com
Strategic Marine boosts confidence with firm order for 100 Cat engines with options for 50 more
In a clear indication of confidence in its Fast Crew Boats and Crew Transfer Vessels, Strategic Marine has placed an order with Cat® dealer Trakindo, for 100 of its Cat C32 engines. This follows its previous pre-order of 50 similar engines in May 2022 and is aimed at providing security to clients and avoiding long waiting times for key components.
While the engine supply chain disruptions of the past few years have been alleviated somewhat as global manufacturing catches up post-Covid, this has been matched by a sharp rise in shipbuilding activity as well. This has put continued pressure on the supply of critical component which powers the majority of the leading aluminium boat builder's wide range of vessels.
The order for the engines, one of the most significant recent commitments in the Asian market, will boost clients' confidence in the Singapore-based boatbuilder's ability to deliver products on-budget and on-schedule, as costs have been locked in to hedge against rising prices and current extended delivery times.
With the assured supply of engines, the latest deal will allow Strategic Marine to ensure visibility and an efficient production timeline for its clients amid a steady and rapidly increasing stream of new orders.
These include multiple recent orders for Fast Crew Boats and Crew Transfer Vessels from clients in Europe and Asia within just the last six months.
The Cat C32 is a workhorse of the workboat fleet and in demand from many users for marine applications with its high power-to-weight ratio. The engine is also renowned for its efficiency, being one of the most power-dense high-speed diesel engines from Caterpillar Marine. The Cat C32 can produce between 600hp to 1800hp at 2,300 RPM, depending on how it is set up, with peak torque kicking in at 1,500 RPM.
The 100 Cat engines are IMO III-ready with the addition of a selective catalytic reduction system.
“We always seek to exceed the needs of our customers first and endeavour to anticipate any potential issues that may cause delays or affect timely delivery of our vessels to our valued clients,” says Strategic Marine Chief Executive Officer, Chan Eng Yew.
He adds, “We appreciate the trust placed in us to produce the vessels that are now in high demand and leverage on our well-established relationships with close partners such as Trakindo to fulfill these requirements."
General Manager at Trakindo Widjanarko Hidajat says: “Strategic Marine and Cat engines have been solidly working together to power all types of vessels over the years. We are pleased to build on this relationship by committing 100 engines to our strategic partner and are excited to support them as they continue to grow their business along with the uptick in the market.”
Strategic Marine can also provide service and maintenance, fabrication and engineering, marine logistics services and financial services and solutions for its products – providing a complete turnkey, asset lifecycle solution for its clients.
Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings goes biocide-free with Nippon Paint Marine’s AQUATERRAS
Marine coatings leader Nippon Paint Marine has announced the application of its unique biocide-free self-polishing coating (SPC) AQUATERRAS to Riviera, a luxury cruise ship operated by Oceania Cruises, a subsidiary of Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings (NCLH).
This application of Nippon Paint Marine’s award-winning AQUATERRAS product follows pre-pandemic testing on NCLH’s vessels. After almost two years of the vessels being exposed to static, pandemic-enforced operation in a fouling rich marine environment, AQUATERRAS demonstrated superb resistance to fouling and marine growth.
The coating was applied to Riviera (66,172 GT) in dry-dock at Chantiers Naval de Marseille. AQUATERRAS was applied to the vertical sides of the ship. The average hull roughness measured after the application of AQUATERRAS was a significantly low 40 microns. This extreme smoothness will provide reduced friction between the hull and the water and will help NCLH to maximize fuel savings and reduce emissions. AQUATERRAS’ excellent biocide free fouling resistance properties will assist in mitigating possible ecological issues arising from biofouling and species migration.
Nippon Paint Marine has been working closely with NCLH for over a decade to provide antifouling systems for cruise ships operating under the Norwegian Cruise Line, Oceania Cruises, and Regent Seven Seas Cruises brands.
“Due to the impressive performance of AQUATERRAS in testing, we decided to broaden the scope of supply to ships in the Oceania Cruises’ fleet and are exploring additional applications to the Regent Seven Seas Cruises fleet,” said Carlo Paiella, Senior Vice President, Technical Operations for Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings. “Nippon Paint Marine’s technical service and worldwide supply capabilities complement the excellent performance and sustainability benefits we have seen from the company’s highly effective marine paint coating technology.”
“As leaders in the cruise ship sector, we believe it is vitally important to do all we can to reduce our environmental impact. The use of AQUATERRAS will contribute to our ongoing decarbonization efforts and our commitment to pursue net zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2050.”
AQUATERRAS is the world’s only biocide free self-polishing coating and is based on a unique micro-domain SPC developed by Nippon Paint Marine. The coating works by using science and materials used in medical anti-thrombogenic polymer technology. Hydrophilic & hydrophobic micro-domain structures actively combine to naturally repel any biological adhesion onto the vessel’s surface. Nippon Paint Marine’s chemists ensured that a constantly active micro-domain structure is always exposed by creating a continuous self-polishing reaction.
“We are proud that Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings has selected Nippon Paint Marine as a prime supplier of underwater coatings for their vessels,” said John Drew, Director of Nippon Paint Marine Europe. “As a market leader, NCLH understandably requires highly effective solutions to maximize operational efficiencies, reduce fuel consumption and associated costs, while also achieving its environmental aims.
“The cruise industry has been an early proponent of Nippon Paint Marine’s ground-breaking technology. NCLH is one amongst a group of proactive and forward-thinking cruise lines that recognize AQUATERRAS as a hugely significant breakthrough technology in the antifouling market, providing enhanced levels of performance to those systems containing biocides, such as cuprous oxide.”
Nippon Paint Marine is expected to apply its 100th cruise ship using its various marine coating technologies later this year.
Five industry groups agree to work together on crucial safety issues
A Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) was signed last week by representatives of the five organisations Cargo Incident Notification System (CINS), Confidential Human Factors Incident Reporting Programme (CHIRP), Container Owners Association (COA), International Cargo Handling Coordination Association (ICHCA) and Ship Message Design Group (SMDG).
The participants have a commonality of purpose to create a framework for cooperation that enables each group to benefit from each other’s activities in respect of their strategies in areas of joint interest. These will, in the immediate future concentrate on improved safety during the global transport and handling of goods that have the potential to cause injury to the workforce and/or damage to the environment and the goods themselves.
John Beckett, Chair of ICHCA commented, “This unique grouping of industry leaders has the potential to coordinate data, research and best practices across the broad spectrum of the international movement of cargo. A key goal is to create an awareness throughout the freight industry, amongst operators, regulators and policy makers as to practical and effective measures to improve safety.”
A fundamental part of the group’s output will be publications, an aim that is close to the heart of Deputy Chair of CINS, Dirk Van de Velde, “As an example of where immediate attention is required, container ship fires are high on the list,” he said.
“The combined knowledge, experience and database resource of the signatories to this MOU, managed in a coordinated manner, have massive potential to leverage change in safety processes. We will be publishing guidance on the treatment of lithium-ion batteries, among other cargoes, in the near future.”
In search of practical changes that will alleviate such dangers, the MOU calls for coordinated efforts both on regional and international issues of common concern and engagement with relevant regulatory bodies including the IMO and other appropriate United Nations agencies.
Other stated aims include working together to initiate innovative worldwide surveys and studies that can assist with the furtherance of these organisations on behalf of their members and associates. There will also be sharing of research findings and publications to strengthen information exchange, while avoiding duplication of effort by pooling resources.
“CHIRP Maritime is delighted to be part of the MOU. CHIRP Maritime will work with our partners to collect information on operational cargo-related accidents and incidents and share learning with the wider maritime community to promote best practices in the supply chain and reduce the number of cargo incidents on board ships and terminals” explained CHIRP’s David Watkins.
Damen Triton IoT platform receives Bureau Veritas type approval for cyber resilience
Damen Shipyards Group has announced receipt of a Bureau Veritas (BV) Type Approval Certification for Cyber Resilience of its Triton IoT platform.
Dame’s Triton IoT platform enables the gathering of all available operational asset data from a vessel and its engines, pumps, hydraulics, alarms and other equipment, amounting to over 10,000 signals for a single vessel. This is then communicated to crew on board and fleet managers on shore. With this data, which is presented on various on board and remote dashboards, crew can track asset health, maintenance scheduling and more.
Triton’s receipt of type approval, a significant milestone for the platform, is the result of a close collaboration between Damen Digital Solutions, Tata Consultancy Services (TCS) and Bureau Veritas.
From the outset, Damen has focused on cyber security and its procedures in the development of Triton. This included hardening the gateway and implementing procedures in software and firmware updates, as well as data security at rest and transit and a robust risk management process. Damen, together with TCS, intends to continue to develop the platform, providing valuable data analysis to its clients that will help to enhance the efficiency of their operations.
“This Type Approval Certification from Bureau Veritas is a significant milestone for us and a testament to the quality and reliability of our Triton IoT Platform,” said Toine Cleophas, Director of Damen Digital Solutions. “I’m grateful to TCS for their partnership, which has been crucial in the development of this solution. We are proud to be a trusted partner for our customers and look forward to providing even more value to them in the future.”
Regu Ayyaswamy, Global Head, IoT & Digital Engineering, TCS, said: “TCS is proud to partner with Damen Digital Solutions BV in this unique initiative that will ensure best-in-class security measures for the Marine IoT ecosystem and will set an industry benchmark.”
To achieve this type approval Triton met the cyber security requirements described in BV Rule Note NR 659 R02. This also makes it also compliant with the requirement of IACS UR E27 that will enter into force for all contracts signed after Jan 1st 2024, as Paul Delouche, Strategy & Advanced Services Director at Bureau Veritas Marine & Offshore explains.
“This certification process that Bureau Veritas has successfully carried out in conjunction with Damen Digital Solutions, is the same work that we will carry out with all equipment manufacturers who request it to anticipate the entry into force of UR E27 in 2024. Such certified equipment, considered as cyber resilient, will therefore able to be installed on board cyber secure by design vessels that will comply with the requirements of UR E26.”
All of Damen’s newbuilds, some 150+ vessels per year, are delivered with the Triton IoT platform. Triton can also be retrofitted to existing vessels and can co-exist with legacy systems, providing even more opportunities for operators to benefit from its capabilities.
Alfa Laval brings fluidic air lubrication technology benefits to shipowners
Alfa Laval announces the completion of its acquisition of Marine Performance Systems B.V., a Rotterdam-based maritime technology company that has developed the first fluidic air lubrication system on the market. The move will enable Alfa Laval to bring this environment-friendly technology to market contributing significantly towards improving ship efficiency, reducing fuel consumption, and minimizing emissions from ships.
Empowering energy-efficient and sustainable shipping
Having acquired a minority stake in Marine Performance Systems B.V (MPS) in the year 2021, Alfa Laval has now taken the final step to fully integrate the company under its own brand. The acquisition will accelerate the advancement and introduction of the patented fluidic air lubrication system, FluidicAL into the market to support vessels to sail sustainably.
A ship’s friction when sailing is the most significant driver of its fuel consumption representing up to 60 per cent of a vessel’s operating expenditures. The advanced fluidic air lubrication system from MPS combines fluidics and air lubrication technologies to offer significant reductions in the ship’s friction when sailing.
The system is unique in its use of fluidics to generate micro air bubbles with a high degree of control, maintaining an air layer that covers the full flat bottom area of the vessel for maximum effectiveness. The reduction of frictional resistance working on the ship's hull results in reduced fuel consumption.
"By adding air lubrication system into our portfolio, we are thrilled to further expand our offering of energy-efficient and sustainable solutions to our customers,” says Anders Lindmark (pictured), Business Unit President Heat & Gas Systems, Alfa Laval. “Since 2021, we have been closely supporting the development of MPS’ air lubrication technology and we are impressed with the performance of the fluidic air lubrication systems, we have installed on board vessels."
Maximizing cost savings and minimizing emissions
With its ability to provide shipowners with numerous benefits in one solution, the fluidic air lubrication technology is expected to have a significant impact on shipping decarbonization. By reducing the friction, air lubrication not only supports emission abatement but provides substantial fuel cost savings and improvement in overall ship efficiency, at a vessel’s normal service speed and a payback period below 3 years.
"In today's maritime industry, solutions that lower the operational costs and minimize emissions are more critical than ever. The air lubrication system from MPS is designed keeping in mind the needs and challenges of the shipping industry. It offers shipowners access to an easy-to-install solution that provides a perfect balance of operational and financial flexibility, while significantly reducing environmental emissions," says Anders.
The patented FluidicAL system requires no structural modifications or vessel recertification, which makes it ideal for retrofitting as well as for newbuilds. Having a minimal footprint and maximum flexibility, the system can be configured and optimised to the specific vessel’s design and operational profile ensuring integration with existing onboard technology seamlessly.
Enabling adherence to environmental regulations
Air lubrication technology is recognized by the International Maritime Organization (IMO) as an “Innovative Energy Efficiency Technology” to lower carbon emissions. The technology supports compliance with Energy Efficiency Existing Ship Index (EEXI), Energy Efficiency Design Index (EEDI) and the reduction of carbon intensity to meet IMO's carbon Intensity Indicator (CII) requirements. Besides this, the innovative fluidic air lubrication technology minimizes CO2 emissions thereby helping in limiting CO2 tax.
Braemar provides trading update on record year
The board of Braemar Plc, a provider of expert investment, chartering, and risk management advice to the shipping and energy markets, is delighted to announce that Braemar has achieved record revenue and record profitability for the financial year ended 28 February 2023 on a simplified business strategy.
The Company expects to report revenue for the year of not less than £150m (2022: £101.3m), with underlying operating profit of not less than £20m (2022: £10.1m).
The Group’s cash generation has also been strong, and the board expects the Group to be in a net cash positive position of circa £6.9m at the end of the financial year (2022: net debt of £9.3m). This net cash figure is after the payment of the acquisition consideration for Southport Maritime Inc. in the US and the recruitment of the new team in Madrid, both of which were announced by the Company in December 2022.
Trading in the first few weeks of the financial year has started well and the board looks forward to the rest of the year with confidence.
Procureship partners with Oriani to further strengthen digitalisation efforts of Greek shipping community
Procureship, provider of one of the world’s leading e-procurement platforms for marine buyers and suppliers, has partnered with fellow Greek company Oriani to further expand the digitialisation efforts of Greek shipping companies.
Oriani advises shipping companies that are looking to enhance their businesses through digitalisation. It works with shipping companies primarily in Greece to connect them with relevant maritime digital transformation partners.
The partnership between Procureship and Oriani brings together two of the largest digital transformation players in the Greek shipping market to streamline the procurement process, improve decision making and offer significant cost savings for Greek ship owners.
“Procurement departments need the right tools.,” said Grigoris Lamprou (pictured, far right), Co-Founder and Chief Executive Officer of Procureship. “There is so much data and so little time to analyse the market and trends and see if shipping companies are spending their money in the best way and using the most efficient processes to inform their decisions.
“Procureship offers a digitally advanced platform that uses machine learning (ML) to eliminate hours of manual work, seamlessly connecting marine buyers, suppliers and service providers in a cost-effective and timely manner. By partnering with Oriani, we can offer our platform to more shipping companies in Greece and be a part of their digitalisation journeys by improving their procurement departments and making things faster and more secure.”
“The Greek shipping community has long been a driver of change for the global maritime industry,” said John Vandoros, Business Development Director, Oriani. “We see a real appetite for embracing new and emerging digital solutions that streamline the administrative tasks that are so crucial to keeping ships running on time and within budget.
“Procureship offers the most advanced e-procurement service in the market in terms of functionality, speed and support. Crucially the platform is nimble enough to adapt to varying company sizes and needs, while also being large enough to offer a wide range of suppliers and value to the procurement market.”
Procureship’s e-procurement platform has been built with digitalisation at its core. The company has recently added new features to the platform including IHM maintenance documentation compliance, advanced e-invoicing processing, service providers recommendation algorithm and detailed freight forwarding optimisation, all of which utilise machine learning (ML) to improve the operational efficiency of the entire procurement process.
Tools from the OCEAN project aim to support UN ‘High Seas Treaty’
The OCEAN project, funded by the EU and the UK Research and Innovation Grant, focuses on navigational safety and the enhancement of ‘on the spot’ navigational awareness relating to hazards around the ship or craft. Targeted at providing tools for onboard use of commercial and non-commercial ships alike, one aspect of the OCEAN project is to provide near-real-time warnings to the navigators when in areas of an expected high level of marine mammal presence and activity, with the dual objective of protecting the marine wildlife as well as increasing the safety of smaller and lightly built ships.
In this way the OCEAN project will support the new UN ‘High Seas Treaty’, which is set to provide a legal framework for establishing networks of Marine Protected Areas (MPAs), designed to contribute to the conservation of marine biodiversity. The treaty was agreed on March 5th, 2023, and is expected to be covering almost two-thirds of the ocean that lies outside national boundaries – see https://shipmanagementinternational.com/un-delegates-reach-historic-agreement-on-protecting-marine-biodiversity-in-international-waters/
.
The OCEAN project will deliver and demonstrate several human-centred innovations, including the 4D Situation Awareness Display, which is developed from the ground up to improve the visualisation of navigational hazards, integrating current bridge information systems with marine mammal tracking capacity specifically developed by the project.
The project will design and implement a European Navigational Hazard data infrastructure, fed by multi-source observation and predictions mechanisms, enabling the detection and distribution of information relating to large aggregations of marine mammals. In turn, the European Navigation Hazard Infrastructure is meant to be integrated with the existing and coming maritime warning infrastructure which serves the maritime community, a long-term objective being to transfer this data ecosystem to relevant European organisations for deployment and maintenance.
The OCEAN project is user-centred by nature and is involving a growing group of maritime stakeholders in its development. Through the OCEAN Maritime Stakeholders Forum, the project engages and interacts with prominent organizations on marine mammal protection, including The World Wildlife Fund, The International Whaling Commission (IWC) and the International Fund for Animal Welfare (IFAW), to ensure that the project will deliver the most effective and efficient solutions possible within the project limitations.
The project launched in October 2022 and is scheduled to run for three years. It is co-funded by Horizon Europe, the European Union’s research and innovation programme, and the consortium consists of 13 members representing 7 European countries, Norway, Greece, Spain, Denmark, Portugal, Ireland and UK, all located on major European coastal regions.
Members include a coastal administration, a ship operator, maritime safety and transport researchers, marine mammal ecology and conservation experts, companies specialised in maritime information systems and sensors, a professional organisation, a risk and safety management organisation, as well as data infrastructure, data fusion and satellite imaging specialists. UK participants are supported by UK Research and Innovation Grant Number 10038659 (Lloyd’s Register) and Grant Number 10052942 (The Nautical Institute).
Share your photographs on social media to spread positivity, urges InterManager
Shipping has long complained about negative perceptions and a general focus on all that is bad. Now shipmanagement association InterManager is attempting to address this by running its own global “positivity campaign”.
Using social media to spread the word, InterManager is urging members of the maritime community – including seafarers, shore workers, and their families – to post a positive image of shipping alongside the hashtag #shippositive, tagging InterManager too.
Up for grabs are FIVE brand new iPad devices which will be awarded to the five photographs which the judges decide best demonstrate a positive image of shipping. The judges are drawn from across the international shipping community and include: Associate Professor Lars Lippuner, Director Warsash Maritime School; Christina Liviakis, Director of Business Development, American Ship Repair and President WISTA USA; Bjorn Jebsen, ship and crew manager and former InterManager President; and Jean Pontila, Second Officer sailing with Jebsen PTC Maritime, alongside InterManager Secretary General Capt Kuba Szymanski.
The competition starts NOW! All you have to do is share a photograph which illustrates a positive image of the shipping industry or life at sea. Post your image on either Instagram, LinkedIn, Facebook, Twitter or TikTok using the competition hashtag #shippositive as well as #intermanager or @intermanager.
The photo can show anything positive about shipping, such as how great a life at sea can be, happy colleagues, workplace satisfaction, an enjoyable meal, fabulous scenery, awe-inspiring weather, wildlife . . . whatever you think illustrates the positive reasons you enjoy being in shipping.
Of course there are some rules – in particular entrants must ensure they take their photos carefully and don’t breach any of their employer’s regulations regarding confidentiality or social media. Full details are available on the InterManager website: www.intermanager.org
Urging members of the maritime community to take part, Capt Kuba Szymanski, who began his seagoing career in 1985 and has enjoyed a long maritime career ashore since then, enthused: “I’ve been involved in the shipping industry for my whole working life and can honestly say that shipping has consumed me. I am proud of my industry and, while I acknowledge that like all businesses there are sometimes mistakes made, I believe that shipping has much to be proud of – after all we are a crucial part of global trade and deliver 90% of all goods consumed. I think the pandemic hammered home that point when ships kept sailing and seafarers worked above and beyond in order to keep the world supplied with trade and aid.”
By demonstrating shipping’s positive side, particularly the camaraderie and opportunities of a life at sea, Capt Szymanski believes the industry can reach out to the next generation of seafarers: “Shipping has to fight for the talent of tomorrow against strong competition from shore-based industries like IT. We need to show young people that we can offer an exciting, interesting, and rewarding career path beginning at sea and progressing to shore if they choose. There are many roles and opportunities available to motivated men and women and our #shippositive campaign gives us an opportunity to highlight the plus side of our amazing industry.”
InterManager’s #shippositive competition runs to June 30th and the iPad winners will be announced during London International Shipping Week (#LISW23) in September.
ClassNK releases FAQs on EU-ETS for Shipping
ClassNK has released “FAQs on the EU-ETS for Shipping”, an overview and necessary preparation of the European Union Emissions Trading System (EU-ETS), which is expected to be introduced to the maritime industry.
The European Union (EU) has set a goal of reducing greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions by at least 55% by 2030, compared to the 1990 levels, with the aim of achieving net zero emissions by 2050. A comprehensive climate policy package presented “Fit for 55” announced in 2021 to achieve the 2030 target, includes a legislative proposal to extend the EU-ETS to the shipping sector. The proposal is being finalized by the European Parliament and the Council of the European Union with a view to implementing it from January 2024.
To assist the preparation of shipping stakeholders required to respond to the EU-ETS, ClassNK has developed “FAQs on the EU-ETS for Shipping” based on information currently under review. The FAQs provide an overview of the EU-ETS and introduce the necessary preparations in a Q&A format. ClassNK will update the information promptly in accordance with deliberations in the EU.
“FAQs on the EU-ETS for Shipping” is available on the following page of the ClassNK website.
CII mode voyage optimization in real-time from Qtagg
Swedish marine tech company Qtagg is releasing an update to its voyage optimization system EcoPilot that introduces a CII (Carbon Intensity Indicator) mode. Using the CII mode, the ship arrives at its destination with a predetermined CII rating.
EcoPilot is already an established solution, that saves fuel, decreases emissions and optimises propulsion efficiency on ro-ro, ro-pax and cargo ships. Using the just-in-time arrival mode, proven fuel savings are about 7%. Using interactive on time arrival, it is possible to achieve an additional 20%. This means better CII rating and predictable result for each voyage.
Those who will benefit from the EcoPilot CII mode include ship owners and operators that want to control CII ratings of theirs ships, while not overcompensate by slowing down too much. They will be able to choose a CII value for every voyage and reliably target that outcome, says Tomas Lindqvist, CEO of Qtagg. Operators will be able to better maintain their yearly revenue per ship and be in full control of flee performance.
EcoPilot has been in operation for more than 10 years. It has different operational modes: arrival time, fixed ship speed, lowest fuel consumption or desired CII value.
The CII mode is the latest addition, developed in response to the new IMO regulations. The demand for our solution has been increasingly rapidly, and since the whole optimization algorithms were already in place, the addition of a CII mode was mainly about implementing another targeting model.
Tomas Lindqvist explains the main principles: The propulsion plan is calculated based on the desired outcome and acknowledged by the captain. EcoPilot is connected to the governors and pitch controller for automatic execution of the propulsion plan.
The plan is recalculated continuously, based on updated weather reports and ship progress. Changes in schedule can be sent directly to the system from onshore fleet operations center and once acknowledged by the bridge, the propulsion plan is optimized and updated.
“It is impossible to reach the same result trying to manually follow advice on ship speed,” says Tomas. “It is our integrated propulsion power control system that provides fuel savings, and predictable arrival times and CII values – all at the same time. Also, this is not a tool for simulations – it is an actual working control system.”
Seawater-lubricated bearings could result in reduced underwater radiated noise, says Thordon
Thordon Bearings has indicated a polymer propeller shaft bearing lubricated by seawater could generate significantly less underwater radiated noise (URN) than metal bearings lubricated by oil.
The Canadian polymer bearings specialist says the low URN of a ship operating with seawater-lubricated propeller shaft bearings is one of the reasons why the arrangement is favoured by the naval, cruise and fisheries sectors.
“It is completely logical that seawater-lubricated polymer bearings are less noisy than metal ones, but our material is also quieter than rubber bearings and staves,” said Gary Ren, Thordon’s Chief Research Engineer.
“A common problem with conventional rubber bearings is the squeaking and squealing that can occur when trawling at low speeds. This high-pitched noise will reverberate for miles underwater. But the friction associated with conventional bearings could be removed with an elastomeric polymer bearing system, meaning shafts turn more easily. Noise is absorbed by the bearing in the 20 to 200rpm range.
“For fishing and fisheries survey vessels, a seawater-lubricated propeller shaft doesn’t scare the fish away and is often written into the vessel specification for this very reason.”
This claim is verified by New Zealand-based distribution and engineering partner, Henley Group, which has fitted Thordon bearings to some of the world’s largest all-carbon vessels.
“We have had customers take delivery of newbuilds only to find the original rubber bearings were causing a high-pitched squeal when the shafts were turning at low rpm, increasing in volume as shaft speeds decreased,” said Henley Group’s Jacob Power. “After conversion to Thordon’s material, these vessels experienced no squealing at all, in or out of gear or at low shaft speeds of 50rpm.”
Thordon Bearings’ Technical Director, Anthony Hamilton, added: “Marine noise pollution should be considered as serious as marine exhaust gas emissions or any other source of ship-to-air and ship-to-sea pollution; but there is currently no mandatory legislation in place to prevent or reduce this source of environmental damage. More meaningful measures are required if the wider commercial maritime industry is serious about having a zero environmental impact or achieving UN Sustainable Development Goal #14, protecting life below water.
“The technology is there and compared to other types of bearing system the low coefficient of friction and superior hydrodynamic performance at lower shaft speeds of a water-lubricated polymer bearing does result in a quieter operation.”
Last year, the International Maritime Organization agreed to update the non-mandatory technical guidelines MEPC.1/Circ.833 introduced in 2014. A new version of the guidelines is expected to be approved by the IMO’s Marine Environment Protection Committee at its meeting in July 2023.
Japanese approval for SAILOR XTR VSAT antennas
Cobham Satcom has received Japanese Radio Law certification for use of the innovative SAILOR 1000 XTR and SAILOR 600 XTR Ku VSAT antennas with the ST Engineering iDirect MDM3315 satellite modem.
The new modem option provides users with a supported platform for current and future usage whilst offering choice and availability with increased performance. This ensures that regional service providers can continue to offer highly reliable services with SAILOR XTR antennas as well as new capabilities to end-users.
The pairing of SAILOR XTR and the MDM3315 satellite modem unlocks high performance VSAT connectivity, giving Japanese coastal and deep sea satcom users faster internet with which to transform marine and business operations through diverse applications; from digital reporting and condition-based maintenance to improved crew communications for the large regional fishing fleets.
Together, SAILOR XTR and the MDM3315 satellite modem will provide more diversity for the two popular maritime broadband services JSATMarine and JSATMarine Light provided by SKY Perfect JSAT in Japan.
JSATMarine enables the fastest available Asian VSAT connectivity for deep- sea vessels with speed up to 50Mbps (downlink) and unlimited data at a fixed price. JSAT Marine Light will also see a performance boost to support customers operating outside of its core LTE coverage, with low-price VSAT services offering speeds up to 6Mbps downlink.
"We are happy to hear that Cobham Satcom’s technology-leading and best performing VSAT antennas have received approval from Japan's Ministry of Internal Affairs and Communications (MIC) as it allows us to adopt SAILOR 1000 and 600 XTR Ku to secure high speed and reliability across our maritime satcom services, JSATMarine" said Yasuhiko Morita, Group President, Global Business Group, Space Business Unit, SKY Perfect JSAT.
SAILOR XTR’s unique and industry-first built-in Ethernet port enables seamless integration of a third-party device such as a cellular modem or a Wi-Fi access point, giving JSATMarine the possibility to move its JSATMarine Light LTE modem from the bridge on board to the SAILOR XTR dome, for more flexibility, and even better speed and reliability on terrestrial networks.
"We are pleased to support the SAILOR XTR antenna with our leading technology and this certification is significant for the Japanese market,” said Chris Insall, Head of Maritime, ST Engineering iDirect. “The MDM 3315 provides both a versatile and high-performance modem solution, with a typical increase in throughput of around 40%, resulting in the direct improvement of the customers’ connectivity experience and RoI.”
“Performance, dependability and future proofing were the major design factors of the SAILOR XTR antenna technology platform, but we are also seeing its unique features and details offering new use- cases, such as giving service providers the ability to elevate their LTE devices with simple plug and play ethernet in the radome,” said Stephan Romer Jørgensen, Sales Director, APAC, Cobham Satcom.
WFW advises Navigator on ‘women in leadership’ linked loan
Watson Farley & Williams (WFW) has advised Navigator Holdings on a US$200m loan agreed with a syndicate of lenders, led by ABN AMRO Bank and Nordea and including SEB and BNPP, for the financing of 10 vessels.
Highlighting the ever-increasing importance of the sector’s focus on achieving its ESG goals, the loan agreement notably included a sustainability-linked margin adjustment with not only a KPI linked to fleet environmental criteria, but a second KPI linked to the number of women in leadership roles at Navigator, one of the first KPIs relating to gender diversity ever seen in a shipping loan.
The senior term loan facility, which expires in 2029, was signed to refinance two existing facilities and will enable Navigator to borrow an additional US$65m for general corporate purposes.
Navigator is the owner and operator of the world's largest fleet of handysize liquefied gas carriers and a global leader in the seaborne transportation services of petrochemical gases.
The WFW London Assets & Structured Finance team was led by Of Counsel Emily Widdrington, working closely with Associate Lottie Lymer and Trainee Florence Bell.
Emily commented: “Honoured to have supported our long-standing client in this hugely exciting transaction promoting both sustainability and gender diversity in the maritime sector.”
Seawing automated kite system to be Installed on Corona Citrus coal carrier
Kawasaki Kisen Kaisha, Ltd. (“K” LINE) and Electric Power Development Co., Ltd. (J-POWER) have decided to install Seawing, an automated kite system using wind power, on Corona Citrus, an 88,000 DWT-type special coal carrier for J-POWER.
Completed on September 11th, 2019, the 230-metre Corona Citrus is equipped with a ballast water treatment system for protecting marine ecosystems. The coal carrier also comes with a SOx scrubber, which eliminates sulphur oxides in exhaust gas from its engine, so as to comply with the regulations on SOx emissions that came into effect globally in January 2020.
The newly installed Seawing is expected to reduce CO2 emissions from the ship by at least 20%. Thus, it is one of main “K” LINE’s initiatives to achieve its GHG reduction target.
The Seawing system combines expertise in aviation and maritime technologies, which enable dramatic progress of propulsion assist in shipping. The kite can be deployed and stored automatically with simple switching operations. This system collects and analyses weather data and marine data on a real-time basis and uses the information to optimize its performance and secure maximum safety.
Addition of Groke Technologies brings new situational awareness expertise to One Sea association
One Sea welcomes Finnish start-up Groke Technologies as its new member, bringing additional expertise in situational awareness and autonomous navigation to the global alliance on maritime autonomous surface ships (MASS).
Founded in October 2019, Groke Technologies provides state-of-the-art situational awareness systems and intelligent information to support decision making and safer vessel operations with reduced burden on crew.
While the start-up is headquartered in Finland, it has established strong connections in Japan, where research and investment into autonomous maritime technology is gathering pace. To date, six Japanese companies have invested in Groke: Mitsubishi Corporation, Japan’s largest trading house and a partner of Groke since its founding; Sumitomo Mitsui Finance and Leasing; tanker operators Uyeno Transtech, Tsurumi Sunmarine and Asahi Tanker; and, most recently, tugboat operator Tokyo Kisen.
In addition to Japanese investors, Oldendorff Carriers, one of the world’s leading dry bulk owners and operators has also invested in Groke.
In May 2022, Tsurumi Sunmarine became Groke’s first customer when it signed a contract to have Groke Pro (pictured) installed on selected vessels in its tanker fleet. Groke’s flagship product uses machine vision and sensor fusion to deliver a precise overview of a vessel’s surroundings. The situational awareness system combines information from integrated sensors and recently became the first machine vision solution to obtain Innovation Endorsement for Products and Solutions from Japanese classification society ClassNK.
Groke has established a Japanese branch to be closer to its Japanese investors and customers. The start-up is also collaborating with K Line and Japan Radio Co., Ltd. on a research and development initiative aiming to expedite the implementation of autonomous ships and related technologies.
One Sea Secretary General, Sinikka Hartonen, said: “Welcoming Groke Technologies as our new member is a further boost to our growing expertise in the field of situational awareness and the latest demonstration of how One Sea represents a broad cross-section of the maritime technology industry – from promising start-ups to established market players. The growth and increasing diversity of our membership is a result of the ongoing advocacy work we do on behalf of industry to establish a robust regulatory framework for MASS.”
Groke Technologies CEO, Juha Rokka, states that: “Investment in technologies enabling less human dependent operations is gathering pace worldwide, particularly in Japan, and the backing we have received from Japanese and international companies highlights the importance of international collaboration in the development of MASS and related solutions.
“As a One Sea member, we have the opportunity to collaborate with fellow technology providers and deliver enhanced situational awareness to a wider audience of ship owners, operators and yards.”
Port of Cork accelerates digitalisation with new AI-powered port system
The Port of Cork Company (PoCC) has entered an agreement with Innovez One, a provider of port management systems, to accelerate the digitalisation of its port calls and operations.
Under the agreement, Innovez One will provide its flagship software, marineM, to fully digitise and optimise crucial marine services for vessels arriving and departing Ireland’s second-largest port.
MarineM will automate and improve the scheduling of port, tug, and pilotage services, which are crucial for efficient operations. Using algorithms powered by artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning, marineM’s planning module will manage schedules and dispatch resources – assigning pilots and tugboats to jobs in the most efficient way, and reallocating resources seamlessly if a vessel’s ETA changes.
This latest step in the Port of Cork’s digital journey will boost the efficiency of service fleets, thereby minimising the overall distance travelled, eliminating unnecessary journeys and reducing greenhouse gas emissions. It will also assist the port in enhancing berth management, which plays a key role in building port resilience and minimising congestion.
Furthermore, agents will be able to register their vessels, order services such as supplies, logistics and marine services, and track the progress of each job from an online portal available on mobile phones. The system will also automate the billing process, which will boost transparency and accuracy, and help eliminate billing issues, delays and disputes.
Conor Mowlds, Chief Commercial Officer at the Port of Cork Company, said: “The Port of Cork plays a central role for our local communities and businesses, keeping Ireland connected as part of global supply chains. We have high ambitions to deliver smarter, greener and more efficient operations, which will benefit our environment as well as the local and national economy. Having a strong digital backbone is essential to this.
“By partnering with Innovez One, we are proud to take the next step of our digitalisation journey, fully harnessing the latest advances in artificial intelligence to create a more efficient and sustainable future.”
Grant Ingram, CEO of Innovez One for the UK and Europe, said: “Digitalisation is an essential foundation that enables ports to tackle the most pressing challenges they face today, from persisting congestion to the need to reduce their emissions. Smart ports will also be the ones best placed to position themselves in the greener supply chains of tomorrow, and support decarbonization in shipping and beyond.
“We are proud to work with the Port of Cork on this project, which will show how our state-of-the-art technology can deliver new heights in terms of efficiency and help deliver their ambitious vision for the future.”
IMO Secretary-General updated on Black Sea Grain Initiative
IMO Secretary-General Kitack Lim was this week updated on the Black Sea Grain Initiative, during a meeting with Mr Abdullah Abdul Samad Dashti of Kuwait, United Nations Coordinator for the Black Sea Grain Initiative.
The Initiative, originally signed in Istanbul on 22 July 2022, has recently been extended for the second time. During the first two terms of the Initiative, some 25 million metric tonnes of grain and foodstuffs have been moved to 45 countries, helping to bring down global food prices.
During the meeting, Mr Dashti thanked the IMO Secretary-General for the technical and legal advice provided during the negotiations to establish the Initiative, and for the secondment of senior officials from the IMO Secretariat to the Joint Coordination Centre, based in Istanbul, Türkiye. The seconded IMO experts are providing ongoing technical maritime, legal and operational advice to the UN Group of Experts at JCC, enabling significant progress and continuing to shape the operational elements of the Initiative.
Secretary-General Lim raised the concerns of the IMO Membership, with regard to some 60 vessels - not covered under the Initiative – which are blocked in Ukrainian ports in the Black Sea and the Sea of Azov since the start of the conflict, unable to leave.
The two confirmed their desire to see the Black Sea Grain Initiative continue as long as it is needed.
New UK law to boost seafarer pay
Thousands of seafarers regularly entering UK waters should enjoy better pay protections, as the Government continues to boost rights and working conditions whilst preventing firms from using legal loopholes to pay low wages.
The Seafarers’ Wages Act received Royal Assent on Thursday 23rd March and is now law.
A key strand of the Government’s nine-point plan for Seafarers, the new law is designed to protect those working on vessels operating an international service from being paid less than the National Minimum Wage.
The law change will also require authorities to charge operators of vessels who don’t provide evidence they’re paying their seafarers the equivalent to National Minimum Wage, and to refuse harbour access to those who continue to fail to comply.
Last year, P&O Ferries (latest ferry pictured) sacked nearly 800 staff without notice or consultation. The UK Government has acted swiftly to progress its nine-point plan in response to this behaviour and remains committed to seafarers as a priority, both domestically and internationally.
Transport Secretary Mark Harper said: “Our maritime sector is world leading. That’s down to the thousands of hardworking seafarers working tirelessly to maintain supply chains and transport passengers safely across our waters.
“These workers deserve a fair wage and I’m therefore delighted to see our Seafarers’ Wages Act become law, helping improve pay and protect seafarers from exploitation.”
The Government continues to engage with the UK’s near European neighbours to protect seafarers’ welfare and pay and explore the creation of minimum wage equivalent corridors in our respective territorial waters.
Earlier this month, during the UK-France summit in Paris, the Transport Secretary met his French counterpart Clément Beaune, with both nations pledging to continue working together to improve conditions for those working in the Channel and to protect them from exploitation.
The Government is also taking action against rogue employers using controversial ‘fire and rehire’ practices, consulting on plans for a Statutory Code of Practice.
SSY hires maritime specialist Justin Wang to drive LNG business in China
The world’s largest independent shipbroker, Simpson Spence Young (SSY), has announced today that maritime expert Justin Wang will join the global SSY LNG team as a ship broker, effective from April 2023.
Based in Beijing, Wang will be the first active LNG shipbroker in the Chinese capital and will focus on further expanding SSY’s LNG presence in the region, backed up by the current team that is based in London, Singapore, and Stamford, with business development in Madrid & Mumbai.
An LNG specialist with over fifteen years of commercial maritime experience, Wang has built up an extensive CV in the sector having worked previously at NYK Group, BW Group and more recently shipbroking firm BRS. Wang’s appointment to the SSY LNG team is the latest high profile addition with Magnus Tangen, former Marine Solutions Lead at Berkshire Hathaway Energy, having also joined in August ’22 to lead the department’s small scale and LNG bunkering business.
Established in 2004, SSY’s LNG shipbroking division has expanded considerably over the past five years and now provides international coverage across all times zones in addition to covering every aspect of the LNG shipping value chain.
Speaking on the appointment, Toby Dunipace, Managing Director of LNG comments: “I’m delighted to welcome Justin to the team and of course, excited to establish a presence in Beijing. In doing so, SSY are making a very firm commitment to our customers in China. Chinese growth in the LNG market has been significant and we feel that bringing in domestic experience will enhance the service that SSY LNG can offer.”
Dunipace continues: “Our LNG business has developed rapidly in the face of a growing sector and key to that has been our ability to provide expert, on the ground brokerage to our clients with local knowledge and relationships. Justin will establish our LNG desk in Beijing and provide a more comprehensive service in China that in turn will benefit our customers around the world.”
Also speaking on today’s announcement, Justin Wang (pictured) comments: “I’m very happy to be joining SSY who are one of the most globally successful and recognised names in shipbroking today. The LNG division have built a very comprehensive global proposition and I look forward to working with the team as they continue to expand their offering and footprint at this exciting stage of development.”
Idwal secures growth investment from LDC
Cardiff-based Idwal Marine Services, a leading provider of tech-enabled inspection services for the global commercial shipping sector, has secured a significant investment from private equity partner LDC to support the development of its business and expand its global footprint.
Idwal provides specialist asset condition and integrity inspection services, fleet monitoring and data services for customers across the marine industry. It employs 55 people at its head office in the city’s Caspian Point, in addition to a number of remote workers throughout the UK and internationally in Greece, China and Japan.
The business was originally founded as a division of Cardiff-based Graig Shipping PLC in 2010. With its investment and support, Idwal has grown quickly under CEO Nick Owens due to increased demand from its global customers and its focus on consistency, integrity and data-led inspections.
The business, a certified carbon neutral organisation, was the first in its industry to include both decarbonisation metrics and crew welfare and working condition data in their reports. It is also focused on the provision of advanced environmental, social and governance (ESG) reporting to ensure that its customers are meeting increasingly stringent sector wide environmental reporting requirements.
With LDC’s support, Idwal’s management team will further develop the platform, data and service provision and expand its network of overseas offices, which already includes China, Greece and Japan.
Graig was originally founded over 100 years ago by Idwal Williams in the heart of the city’s commercial and shipping district. Today, it is one of the UK’s leading global shipping groups, specialising in structuring, advising and leading investments in services and shipping assets in the international marine market. The company said Idwal was a further example of the group’s successful track-record of developing “best in class” marine based business innovations and ventures.
Graig said it was already “well-advanced” in its next maritime venture to bring to the market high quality, environmentally friendly Service Operation Vessels for the rapidly growing global offshore wind and renewables sector, working with its global partners.
LDC’s investment was led by Dewi Hughes, Oliver Schofield and James Garland from its Wales & South West team.
Nick Owens, CEO of Idwal, said: “This is the ideal outcome for both Idwal and Graig, as well as our customers and colleagues. As an independent company with the support of LDC, Idwal is strongly positioned to increase investment in its services and its international presence.”
“Looking ahead, we’re really excited about the opportunity to now expand our global presence and fly the flag for Wales on the international maritime stage.”
Hugh Williams, CEO of Graig, said: “Idwal has grown from a new service to a genuine leader in its field with significant potential. For us, this was an intentional next step for Idwal and is part of Graig’s strategy to refocus the business on its core shipping investments within the fast-growing offshore renewables sector. We look forward to continuing to partner with Idwal in our markets.”
Dewi Hughes, Partner and Head of LDC’s South West & Wales team, said: “Nick and the team have successfully built Idwal into a globally respected business with a reputation for sustainable and innovative services in an evolving marketplace. Now, with the opportunity to further develop its technology platform and further penetrate overseas markets, they will be able to fulfil their ambition to make Idwal the global leader and the Idwal Grade the pre-eminent standard in the international commercial shipping market.”
As part of the investment, Gehan Talwatte and Simon Morse will join the Board as Non-Executive Chairman and Non-Executive Director respectively. Both are successful private equity non-executives and their experiences span data, marine services and global growth businesses.
LDC was advised by KPMG (corporate finance), Blake Morgan (legals), OC&C (commercial due diligence), BDO (financial due diligence) and EY (tax). The management team was advised by Lexington (finance) and Capital Law (legals). Graig was advised by Stout (corporate finance) and Taylor Wessing (legals).
New UK Seafarers Wages Act draws mixed reactions
The Seafarers’ Wages Act received Royal Assent last week and is now law, meaning thousands of seafarers regularly entering UK waters should enjoy better pay protections. The move is designed to boost seafarers’ rights and working conditions while preventing firms from using legal loopholes to pay low wages.
As a key strand of the government’s 9-point plan for seafarers, the new law is designed to protect those working on vessels operating an international service from being paid less than the National Minimum Wage. The law change will also require authorities to charge operators of vessels who do not provide evidence they’re paying their seafarers the equivalent to National Minimum Wage and to refuse harbour access to those who continue to fail to comply.
Responding to the new law, Chief Executive of the Merchant Navy Welfare Board (MNWB) Stuart Rivers said: “This is a landmark moment for the sector. Thousands of seafarers will now have extra security in respect to pay and working conditions following a year of turmoil after the mass sackings made by P&O Ferries.
“Ensuring seafarers have the highest level of welfare support is imperative – and seeing this legislation given Royal Assent is a big step to achieving that.”
But UK-based union Nautilus International warned that the Seafarers’ Wages Act ‘will not stop another P&O Ferries from happening again’.
Nautilus executive officer Martyn Gray said: “Nautilus International welcomes the passing of the Seafarers’ Wages Act. We support the aim of this legislation to ensure workers on vessels that are regularly docking in UK ports are paid at least the UK national minimum wage.
“However, the Seafarers’ Wages Act will not, by itself, force a change to P&O Ferries’ exploitative crewing model or stop another P&O Ferries from happening again. Government must do more to end the race to the bottom in terms and conditions for maritime professionals exacerbated by P&O Ferries. This must start with implementing a mandatory seafarers charter, backed up by bilateral agreements with neighbouring countries, that ensures wages and safe roster patterns reflective of local standards, not international minimums.”
WinGD to deliver methanol engines for COSCO SHIPPING Lines container vessels
WinGD will supply 10X92DF-M methanol-fuelled engines to four 16,000 TEU container vessels to be built for COSCO SHIPPING Lines at COSCO Shipping Heavy Industry (Yangzhou) Co. Ltd. These vessels will be delivered from 2025 and will feature WinGD’s first X92DF-M engines in China. This ground-breaking order was celebrated at a signing ceremony attended by the collaboration partners from COSCO and CSSC onsite at CMD on 23 March.
The methanol engines will be delivered from engine builder CSSC CMD in Shanghai, which is jointly developing the engines with WinGD. The fourth vessel in the series will be the first to have methanol engines installed from the beginning. The earlier vessels will initially have methanol-ready X92-B engines installed and will be converted for methanol before entering service.
These vessels will be among the first methanol-fuelled container vessels to be built in China and represent a significant investment in China’s green transformation strategy.
The X92DF-M engines will be based on the widely used X92-B engine, which has long been deployed by leading containership owners including COSCO SHIPPING Lines, MSC and CMA CGM. The reliability and efficiency of the X92-B will translate directly to the X92DF-M, which will utilize the same high-pressure Diesel combustion cycle.
The order enables WinGD to advance its timeline for developing conversion packages for methanol-fuelled engines. WinGD will introduce a methanol package for the X92-B engine as soon as the fourth vessel in the series is delivered – opening the market for existing vessels with X92-B engines to be converted to use the carbon-neutral fuel.
“Utilizing WinGD’s engine development capabilities jointly with partners serving the world’s biggest shipbuilding market allows us to better support shipowners, as demand for methanol-fuelled container vessels rapidly grows,” said Dominik Schneiter, Vice President R&D, WinGD. “The COSCO SHIPPING Lines order is an ideal move, helping us to strengthen our expertise in both newbuilds and conversions of methanol engines based on our well established X92-B platform which has proven to be a very reliable and efficient engine.
In parallel, WinGD is developing ammonia-fuelled engines as part of its commitment to help shipowners prepare for the availability of green fuels.
DP World and Delhi Capitals announce long-term partnership
DP World and Delhi Capitals today announced a long-term partnership. DP World, a leading provider of smart end-to-end logistics, is now the Global Logistics Partner of the popular cricket franchise.
The new multi-year partnership, unveiled today at the Leela Palace Hotel in New Delhi, will see DP World featured prominently on the back of Delhi Capitals official match jerseys as well as training gear.
The partnership extends beyond logistics to a shared vision of high-performance premised on innovation. This vision also resonates well with the Indian capital, New Delhi, a multi-cultural city and a global hub, that like DP World, connects across borders.
Rizwan Soomar, CEO & MD India Subcontinent & Sub-Saharan Africa, DP World, said: “Over the years, cricket has transformed itself, with ever evolving formats unlocking enormous potential for players across the world and making the game engaging and exciting for a diverse set of audiences. Similarly, DP World is relentlessly focused on innovation, constantly seeking out new opportunities to revolutionise global trade and open opportunities for our customers to grow.
“We are delighted to announce this partnership bringing together two leading organisations that are ready to go beyond conventional boundaries to change what’s possible for everyone.”
DP World, through its world-class multimodal logistics capabilities spread across more than 75 countries, ensures seamless movement of trade around the world, including India. The company plays a critical role in supporting the game of cricket across the world. From transporting the cork of cricket balls to moving the willow that is used for making bats, DP World’s agile, reliable, and transparent supply chain solutions are helping make cricket possible for players across the globe.
Speaking about the new partnership, Dhiraj Malhotra, CEO, Delhi Capitals said: "We are excited to sign a multi-year partnership with DP World. The organisation is a global leader in logistics and therefore it's a huge privilege for us to have DP World as our Global Logistics Partner. The organisation has a strong global presence, and it will certainly help us grow the Delhi Capitals brand."
The 2022 T20 season was viewed by over 400 million fans across the globe, making it one of the largest sporting events in the world. Partnering with Delhi Capitals provides DP World with a vibrant platform to engage with customers, prospects, and stakeholders within India and beyond.
The new partnership is part of DP World’s growing global portfolio of cricket partnerships. The company is the title partner of the DP World ILT20 in the UAE, and the naming rights partner of the DP World Lions and the iconic DP World Wanderers Stadium in Johannesburg. The company also became the title partner of the DP World Asia Cup, that took place in the UAE in 2022.
DP World will begin their exciting journey with Delhi Capitals with one of cricket’s most brilliant minds, Ricky Ponting guiding the team, against Lucknow Super Giants on 1 April 2023. The season will see Delhi Capitals returning home to the Arun Jaitley Cricket Stadium after three years.
EU raises the target for shipping’s decarbonisation, but IMO doesn’t yet
The European Commission has welcomed the political agreement reached between the European Parliament and the Council that increases the maritime transport sector's contribution to reaching the EU-wide target of reducing net greenhouse gas emissions by at least 55% by 2030, and to achieving climate neutrality in 2050.
On 23 March co-legislators agreed on FuelEU Maritime – a new EU regulation ensuring that the greenhouse gas intensity of fuels used by the shipping sector will gradually decrease over time, by 2% in 2025 to as much as 80% by 2050. This measure will help reduce greenhouse gas emissions from the shipping sector by promoting the use of cleaner fuels and energy.
The deal complements the provisional agreement reached on 18 December 2022 to include shipping emissions in the EU Emissions Trading System (EU ETS), both key initiatives in the EU's efforts to reduce maritime emissions.
FuelEU Maritime will help decarbonise the maritime transport sector by setting maximum limits on the yearly greenhouse gas intensity of the energy used by a ship. Those targets will become more ambitious over time to stimulate and reflect the expected developments in technology and the increased production of renewable and low-carbon fuels. The targets cover not only CO2, but also methane and nitrous oxide emissions over the full lifecycle of the fuels.
The new rules also introduce an additional zero-emission requirement at berth, mandating the use of on-shore power supply (OPS) or alternative zero-emission technologies in ports by passenger ships and containerships, with a view to mitigating air pollution emissions in ports, which are often close to densely populated areas.
FuelEU Maritime takes a goal-based and technology-neutral approach, allowing for innovation and the development of new fuel technologies to meet future needs, and offering operators the freedom to decide which to use based on ship-specific or operation-specific profiles. The Regulation also provides for a voluntary pooling mechanism. Under this scheme, ships will be allowed to pool their compliance balance with one or more other ships. Thus, it will be the pool as a whole that has to meet the greenhouse gas intensity limits on average.
The political agreement must now be formally adopted. Once this process is completed by the European Parliament and the Council, the new rules will be published in the Official Journal of the European Union and enter into force 20 days after publication.
The European Green Deal is the EU's long-term growth strategy to make Europe climate-neutral by 2050. To reach this target, Europe must reduce its emissions by at least 55% by 2030, compared to 1990 levels. The latest agreement is hailed by the Commission as another important step in the adoption of its 'Fit for 55' legislative package to deliver on the European Green Deal. It follows other political agreements on parts of this package, most recently on stronger rules to boost energy efficiency.
Meanwhile, the IMO Intersessional Working Group on Reduction of GHG Emissions from Ships (IMO ISWG-GHG 14.) concluded last week without setting any higher GHG emission reduction targets than before.
Guy Platten, the Secretary General of the International Chamber of Shipping, commented: "We are disappointed by the lack of progress on setting new levels of ambition for GHG reductions to provide shipping with a clear net zero target for 2050. But we remain optimistic that a deal can still be stuck at the crucial MEPC meeting in July.
“More positively, governments are increasingly understanding the value of the ICS Fund and Reward proposal to accelerate the production and uptake of low and zero-carbon fuels."
Maersk signs MOU with Shanghai International Port Group on green methanol bunkering
A.P. Moller-Maersk (Maersk) has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with Shanghai International Port Group (SIPG) on strategic cooperation for Shanghai Port methanol marine fuel project. The two parties will join hands to explore green methanol fuel vessel-to-vessel bunkering operation after Maersk’s green methanol container vessels being delivered in 2024.
Maersk has set a net-zero emissions target for 2040 across the entire business, and the delivery and operation of its 19 vessels with dual-fuel engines able to operate on green methanol will accelerate the evolution of climate neutral shipping. Therefore, establishing port bunkering infrastructure for methanol is imperative and critical to achieve this goal.
“Collaborating with ports globally to build green fuel bunkering infrastructures is necessary to service methanol vessels,” said Vincent Clerc, CEO of A.P. Moller-Maersk. “It is an important step as Maersk strives to lead the decarbonisation of end-to-end supply chains and make a meaningful environmental impact in this decade.
“We are very pleased to form the partnership with SIPG, leveraging its strong capabilities in bunkering service and port operation. Through joint efforts, we can provide low-carbon logistics service for our customers, also contributing to China’s pledge to be carbon neutral by 2060. Meanwhile, we also endeavour to cultivate synergies with SIPG and fuel manufacturers to optimize fuel infrastructure efficiencies.”
As SIPG, the main operator of the world’s busiest container port, also commits to becoming a leader in developing green and ecological ports, the agreement will also support the aspiration of Shanghai Port to become one of the world’s first commercial green methanol refuelling points, and as a regional green methanol fuel bunkering centre.
“We are happy to collaborate with Maersk in support of its mission to decarbonise the shipping industry,” said Gu Jinshan, Chairman of Shanghai International Port Group. “As the demand for sustainable fuels increase, establishing the green fuel bunkering service will be another milestone for SIPG, improving port services and enhancing the competitiveness of Shanghai port, in a bid to transform the company into a low-carbon and eco-friendly energy hub in Asia Pacific.
“SIPG will continue to work with shipping companies to foster Shanghai shipping hub gateway and the green, low-carbon transformation of shipping industry in Shanghai.”
Cyprus Shipping Chamber welcomes agreement on FuelEU Maritime Regulation
The Cyprus Shipping Chamber welcomes the provisional agreement reached on 23 March 2023 between the EU Parliament and the EU Council on FuelEU Maritime. This agreement is another positive step towards establishing the right conditions for the energy transition of shipping.
The agreement gives a strong political signal and provides clear climate targets and guidance for the industry with regards to the fuels that may be used towards the energy transition of the sector. In order to meet these targets, it is essential for the Regulation to foster the production of clean fuels and gives a more central role to fuel suppliers for the first time. The Chamber always supported the important role of the fuel suppliers as a necessity towards the success of the FuelEU regulation.
However, more robust requirements for fuel suppliers to deliver the required clean fuels are now needed, says the CSC. It therefore urges the EU regulators to support binding targets on suppliers for clean marine fuels in the revised Renewable Energy Directive (RED).
It is necessary to secure dedicated maritime clean and safe fuels at EU ports to safeguard the uninterrupted flow of supplies and the sustainability of shipping SMEs, concludes the Cyprus Shipping Chamber.
Ocean Technologies Group and Lobster Ink agree strategic partnership
The cruise sector is enjoying a rapid return to strength, with ships and crew being reactivated at an unprecedented rate. Recent estimates suggest that nearly 73,000 crew are needed per year to power the industry. The post-pandemic bounce-back is great news, but places pressure on Cruise operators who must find and deploy the talent they need.
Recognising the specialist learning needs of the hotel department, Ocean Technologies Group (OTG) have signed a strategic partnership with Lobster Ink that will add more than 100 cruise-relevant hospitality courses to the Ocean Learning Platform (OLP). These new titles focus on the hotel team and cover critical areas, including front-of-house service, housekeeping, bartending, cooking techniques and restaurant hosting.
Making up more than 70% of the crew on board, the hotel department of a cruise ship is at the forefront of creating an exceptional guest experience. This team directly influences guest satisfaction, which drives spending while aboard, repeat business and increased customer loyalty. With a proven track record of providing innovative learning solutions to the world’s largest and most recognised lodging and hospitality brands, Lobster Ink equips frontline teams with the skills, knowledge and behaviours needed to deliver consistent and exceptional guest experiences.
Through the addition of hotel department titles, OLP now offers a complete solution to cruise ship owners providing a clearer picture of compliance and service quality across their fleets. The hotel department will also be able to take advantage of the features of OLP that have only previously been available to the deck and technical departments.
Tools such as OLP’s inbuilt Virtual Classroom offer the opportunity to deliver group training remotely, eliminating the need to bring learners and expert educators to the same location and reducing training time on board. Elements of familiarisation and briefings can be transferred from in-person to online or in-platform.
OLP authoring tools allow operators to add and monitor the completion of their own brand-specific training. Online functionality and the OLP mobile app open up possibilities to make learning a pre-boarding requirement that can be done at home or en route to the ship.
The competency management functions even allow for OTG, Lobster Ink, and a customer’s own content to be combined, along with practical exercises to build clear competence-building pathways that allow for skills building and career progression, a driving contributor to crew retention.
“Our new partnership with Lobster Ink opens up a wealth of opportunities for our Cruise customers. By combining our knowledge of the Cruise sector, the power of the Ocean Learning Platform, and Lobster Ink’s expert understanding of hotel and guest services, we have a comprehensive solution to build knowledge, acquire skills and drive the performance of the hotel team,” said Joost van Ree, Group Director Cruise & Yachts at Ocean Technologies Group.
“Our Cruise customers will now have a unified picture of their training and knowledge building across deck, technical, and hotel teams all in one place, giving management visibility and control of the quality of service across their fleet, and from talent partners, regardless of department or location,”, added Joost.
In addition, OTG provides cruise lines, ship managers and recruitment partners with a range of pre-employment screening tools, such as the renowned Marlins English language and Seagull CES test and a range of flag-approved STCW Courses.
"We're thrilled about partnering with Ocean Technologies Group during this important time for the industry. Together we are able to bring our award-winning hospitality training to Cruise customers as part of a complete skills development solution. And as our learning library continues to evolve, our shared customers will benefit from an ever-growing training resource for their teams," said Gerard du Plessis, Marketing Director of Lobster Ink.
“With a shortfall of crew predicted in the next decade, it is important that both the cruise and mega yacht industry retain the talent they have and encourage more people to join the industry. Our Learning and Assessment solutions make it possible to help our customers recruit and retain talent, and keep crew motivated by providing them with all the tools they need to achieve their career goals,” concluded Joost.
The Ocean Learning Platform is widely recognised as the leading maritime learning and development solution, most recently receiving the Industry Solution Award at Crew Connect Global in Manila.
WFW advises Anglo American on its Maritime Transportation Strategy
Watson Farley & Williams (WFW) has been assisting Anglo American with its sustainable maritime transportation strategy, the first phase of which has culminated in January 2023 with the loading of first cargo for m.v. 'UBUNTU HARMONY'.
The vessel (pictured) is the first in a series of 10 x 190,000 deadweight LNG dual- fuelled bulk carriers constructed, or under construction, at Shanghai Waigaoqiao Shipbuilding Co., destined for use by Anglo American.
Anglo American, a leading global mining company is targeting carbon-neutrality for its controlled ocean freight, and to halve its Scope 3 emissions, by 2040. In 2019, WFW were approached to assist Anglo American with this strategy. From the initial planning, WFW have been involved at every stage throughout, advising Anglo American on its various options and all aspects of vessel ownership and employment; shipbuilding; LNG procurement and fuelling; technical management, insurances and vessel operations; and financing.
The WFW team that advises Anglo American is led by Simon Petch, supported by Robert Platt, Heike Trischmann, Richard Stevens, David Osborne, Katie Shiels, David Handley, Hollie Pickering, Becky Zhu, Emily Hartland, Emma Petersen, Chloe Konstantinides, and Florence Bell in London and Singapore.
Lead Partner Simon Petch commented: “It has been a great pleasure working with the Anglo American teams and their commercial advisers, Clarksons, on such an important project, and it has been a superb opportunity for WFW to showcase our credentials in so many areas of the maritime industries from sustainability to sanctions; future-fuels to finance, and everything in between.”
DNV awards first D-INF(S) type approvals to COSCO and SHI for data infrastructure systems
COSCO and SHI have received the world’s first D-INF(S) type approvals from DNV for their data collection systems. The D-INF rules provide guidelines for the design, construction, and maintenance of a ship's data infrastructure. By implementing the class notation, COSCO and SHI demonstrate their commitment to providing a standardized data sharing solution to their customers and ambition to lead in the digital transformation of the maritime industry.
A standardized data infrastructure system can, through improved connectivity, data sharing, analysis, and real-time monitoring, enhance safety, improve operational efficiency, and reduce maintenance costs. DNV's data collection infrastructure and vessel connectivity (D-INF) rules can help ensure that a vessel’s data network is reliable, secure, and supports the increasing demand for data-driven decision-making in navigation, communications, and safety systems.
Samsung Heavy Industries’ (SHI) data collection infrastructure, SVESSEL® BIG will be a key component of the digitally enabled vessels they offer to their customers. With D-INF(S) type approval of the smart vessel system, SVESSEL®, customers can have confidence that the key data pipeline onboard their vessels has been verified to meet state-of-the-art standards for reliable, safe, and efficient information sharing.
"We are proud to have DNV verify our data collection infrastructure systems, SVESSEL® BIG" said Hyun Joe Kim, Vice President from SHI. "This is a testament to our commitment to providing safe, reliable, future proof and innovative solutions to our customers. With such systems delivered as part of the vessel infrastructure, our vessels are truly digitally enabled."
COSCO Shipping has implemented data collection infrastructure through its subsidiary Shanghai Ship and Shipping Research Institute (SSSRI) and developed the Intelligent Integrated Platform System (IIPS). This vessel-to-cloud data collection system is set to be installed on a series of COSCO Shipping’s newbuild container vessels at the COSCO Shipping Heavy Industry shipyard in YangZhou.
"The verification of our data collection infrastructure systems by DNV demonstrates our dedication to meeting the highest standards in the industry and we are looking to continuously improve our smart fleet operation,” said Mr. Chen Gong, General Manager of SSSRI. “Standardized data infrastructure ensures that we can implement this in a cost-efficient way for the fleet."
“We congratulate COSCO and SHI on this achievement and look forward to continuing close cooperation with them to drive maritime digitalization forward,” said Knut Ørbeck-Nilssen, CEO, DNV Maritime. “To reap the benefits of the digital transformation it is crucial that we as an industry establish a standardized approach and collaborate on data use to ultimately ensure safe, sustainable and efficient operations.”
The D-INF(S) notation for standardized solutions, verifies that the data collection infrastructure systems can collect data from a range of different systems and supports input and output according to a standardized ISO19847/19848 format which facilitates collection, exchange, trust, and use of data.
ABB’s mid-range Azipod® propulsion to power four cruise vessels
ABB has secured a contract with Fincantieri, one of the world’s leading shipbuilding groups, to deliver in total eight mid-range Azipod® propulsion systems for four forthcoming medium-sized cruise vessels. The ships are due for delivery in 2024, 2025, 2026 and in 2027.
“We are looking forward to working with our long-term, trusted partner ABB on these newbuilds that promise optimum sustainability, passenger comfort and safety,” said Massimo Costa, Vice President Purchasing Merchant Ships Division of Fincantieri. “Azipod® propulsion system has demonstrated its value in the cruise sector over three decades and has become the industry standard, meaning that the customer can count on proven technology and unparalleled experience.”
The passenger ships will be equipped with two 7.7-megawatt Azipod® propulsion units per vessel. The system meets the design requirements of modern medium-sized vessels, while the proven ability of Azipod® technology to optimize maneuverability and reduce vibrations and noise provides smoother, safer cruising and ensures an enhanced guest experience.
With the electric drive motor housed within a pod outside the ship hull, the Azipod® system can rotate 360 degrees, increasing maneuverability and allowing vessels to dock in harbors where turning circles are restricted. Azipod® propulsion also improves a ship’s hydrodynamic performance and cuts fuel consumption by up to 20 percent compared with a traditional shaftline setup. Space saved by locating the motor outside the ship allows for more flexible design and frees up space for cabins, cargo or other features.
“We are honored to supply an integrated propulsion system to ensure the ultimate cruise experience onboard these four vessels,” said Juha Koskela, Division President, ABB Marine & Ports. “This order represents a significant milestone for our advanced mid-range Azipod® propulsors, once again demonstrating their environmental and operational benefits.”
The Azipod® system features ABB’s fourth-generation permanent magnet motors, which have been refined for added power and efficiency, while a simple but robust design offers ease of maintenance and reliability. The system’s compatibility with alternative energy sources makes it a future-proof solution that is ready to work with new, cleaner fuels as soon as these become available.
Alongside the two Azipod® units, ABB’s full scope of supply includes propulsion drives, transformers and control systems. The comprehensive setup offers high system redundancy to further promote safety and reliability.
Port of Rotterdam Authority tests smart berth at ECT
Following the successful trial of one smart bollard along the quay of the Hutchison Ports ECT Delta terminal on the Maasvlakte, the Port of Rotterdam Authority has now installed six so-called ‘smart bollards’.
The six bollards, which were developed in collaboration with Straatman BV, Zwijndrecht, are positioned side by side at one berth for large container ships. Since the bollards measure the strength of the mooring lines, more insight is gained about what the consequences of berthing, docking and idling container ships at the quay are.
The installation of smart berths is in line with the Port Authority’s policy of making the port safer and more efficient through digitalisation.
The Port of Rotterdam Authority specialises in the construction and maintenance of quay walls. It manages 80 kilometres of quay wall and 200 kilometres of bank shoring. In doing so, it now also uses information obtained from sensors in the quays. This information has shown, among other things, that quay walls have a longer lifespan than commonly believed. Thanks in part to this information, the European standards for structural design have been updated.
The creation of the smart berth is part of a series of measures aimed at using digital technology to manage highly capital-intensive assets such as quay walls more efficiently.
Mission to Seafarers and Deutsche Seemannsmission agree partnership deal to support seafarer welfare in Panama
Leading maritime welfare organisations The Mission to Seafarers and Deutsche Seemannsmission have launched a new partnership to improve welfare services for seafarers in Panama.
To be known as The Seafarers Mission - Panama, this joint initiative will deliver significantly enhanced welfare services and resources for the benefit of seafarers that are passing through one of the world’s most important waterways and shipping nations.
Under the auspices of The Seafarers Mission – Panama, The Mission to Seafarers and Deutsche Seemannsmission will jointly coordinate their work in Panama, and work together to support and advocate on behalf of international seafarers calling in Panama. This includes the many thousands of seafarers who sail through the Panama Canal each year.
The new partnership was launched at a reception held at the residence of the British Ambassador in Panama, hosted by Ambassador Tim Stew MBE (pictured, left), who is also Patron of Mission to Seafarers, Panama, and attended by Andrew Wright (right), Secretary General of The Mission to Seafarers, and Matthias Ristau, General Secretary of the Deutsche Seemannsmission.
The Mission to Seafarers has been working in Panama since 2018, inspired by Dr John Meredith CBE, a leading industry figure, now resident in Panama and Chairman of the local committee. Under the dynamic leadership of Father Ian Hutchinson Cervantes, it has developed a strong welfare presence across Panama’s ports. The Mission’s work has also been supported by key partners across government and by maritime authorities.
The Mission to Seafarers has now been joined by the Deutsche Seemannsmission, for whom Panama will be its 33rd station around the world. Andrea Meenken has been appointed as chaplain, providing practical support and pastoral care for seafarers.
The two organisations will also jointly fund an additional full-time chaplain, as well as continuing to build a strong volunteer base. Both organisations are committed to seamless working together in this new partnership.
Andrew Wright, Secretary General of The Mission to Seafarers, commented: “I am absolutely delighted about this new partnership. Our strategy commits us to building such partnerships. They ensure a joined-up approach to seafarers’ welfare and fresh investment of people, skills and financial resource into crew welfare. It has been exciting to be here this week and I thank all involved in this project.
“I have been amazed to see the speed of progress in Panama since we began this work less than five years ago. This is a key hub and we have shared exciting plans for the way things might develop further into the future.”
Matthias Ristau, General Secretary of the Deutsche Seemannsmission, said: "We have decided that here at the Panama Canal, one of the most important waterways in the world, we will join forces for the benefit of seafarers. 14,000 ships pass through the canal a year, so it's important that someone keeps an eye on the seafarers.
“There are an incredible number of ships here in Panama. And seafarers live and work on them, and they need to be looked after. We now want to tackle this together with our British colleagues and achieve the best for them."
ABS donation to Texas A&M University for Ocean Engineering Chair and new Innovation lab
ABS and Texas A&M University (TAMU) are expanding their unique global strategic relationship with a $2.5m donation to endow the Ocean Engineering Department Chair and fund a new ABS Laboratory for Ocean Innovation.
The investment creates a maritime research powerhouse, uniting ABS’ extensive marine and offshore experience, with TAMU’s world class academic research capability to tackle the most pressing challenges the industry faces today and train the next generation of talent.
Dr. Sharath Girimaji will hold the new ABS Ocean Engineering Department Chair and will oversee eight initial research streams in the new 1,200-square-foot ABS Laboratory for Ocean Innovation in a multi-year plan.
“The marine and offshore industries face profound, disruptive change brought about by the forces of decarbonisation and digitalisation,” said Christopher J. Wiernicki, ABS Chairman, President and CEO. “We will need new skills, new technologies, new strategies and, crucially, new thinking if we are to begin to meet the challenges ahead.
“Together, ABS and Texas A&M – both world leaders in their respective fields - are creating a unique and powerful new capability designed to make a significant contribution to a more sustainable industry.”
“As a specialised ocean engineering department, it is our privilege to partner with a global leader like ABS,” said Dr Sharath Girimaji, Department Head, Ocean Engineering, Texas A&M University. “The team of TAMU faculty and ABS subject matter experts will serve as the intellectual leaders in the important fields of maritime and offshore safety, clean energy transition and blue economy.
“The generous ABS endowment will impact the lives and careers of many students who will receive a world-class education and participate in cutting-edge research. I look forward to a long and fruitful partnership with ABS.”
The Laboratory for Ocean Innovation will include a conferencing area with state-of-the-art communication equipment for presentations, lectures and training, research collaboration and project work areas, computing space and offices for TAMU and ABS staff. Students and subject matter specialists from both institutions will actively use the lab to manage and execute the significant body of research planned over the next several years.
Over the last year, ABS and TAMU have collaborated to develop a partnership which also includes increased scholarship funding, ABS leaders being appointed to five advisory roles with the University, a landmark study into carbon capture and the global supply chain to be carried out between ABS and Texas A&M University at Qatar, and the unveiling of a new development program for ABS leaders.
The ABS headquarters in Spring, Texas, is situated in the middle of both TAMU Ocean Engineering locations – about 80 miles from College Station and the same to the Galveston campus.
Thames Freeport given green light by UK Government
The Thames Freeport has been given the go ahead to formally constitute its board and start operating fully, following the approval of the final business case by the UK Government.
The Freeport is an economic zone located in the Thames Estuary and UK’s largest port – the Port of London. With 1,700 acres of development land, no location can match Thames Freeport for access to Europe’s largest consumer market and its excellent connectivity to 18 million people.
A partnership between Ford, Forth Ports Limited and DP World, Thames Freeport will see over £4.6 billion in new public and private investment, and the creation of over 21,000 new jobs and many more across supply chains. Significant investment in training and skills will contribute to the ‘levelling-up’ of the communities and businesses in East London and South Essex.
The Freeport has already started to deliver new business growth, generating over 500 new jobs, with six businesses joining its sites that offer a package of financial incentives. Today’s announcement reinforces the great work that is already in place to boost the speed of investment, through a comprehensive Trade and Investment Programme with international partnerships to boost global trade. It also recognises Thames Freeport as a centre of innovation, decarbonised fuels, smart technology, and light freight on the river Thames – setting a standard for a green, net zero freeport of the future.
Levelling Up Minister, Dehenna Davison MP, said: “We’re delivering on our mission to grow the economy and level up right across the UK. Thames Freeport is up and running and will bring high quality jobs, investment and trading opportunities for businesses in the region.”
Rt Hon Ruth Kelly, Chair of Thames Freeport, commented: “Thames Freeport offers expanding businesses in green tech, low carbon logistics and manufacturing the advantage of the substantial investment incentives, streamlined customs procedures and co-location within a flourishing green freeport ecosystem.“
Charles Hammond OBE, Chief Executive of the Forth Ports Group, said: “Today’s announcement is another major milestone for the Thames Freeport – we are officially open for business. Over the coming months, we will begin to see the green shoots of the freeport’s land development, infrastructure projects, skills initiatives and innovation programmes take shape.”
Ernst Schulze, UK Chief Executive of DP World, said: “We very much welcome the news that final government approval has been granted to Thames Freeport. As well as further cementing London Gateway’s Logistics Park as the UK’s premier port-centric logistics solution, Thames Freeport will also create local jobs and help ensure that the UK continues to be an attractive destination for inward investment.”
IMO, Norway and Singapore sign MoU on maritime decarbonisation
A Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was signed last week by the IMO, the Ministry of Climate and Environment of Norway, and the Maritime and Port Authority of Singapore (MPA) to collectively undertake technical cooperation activities to assist developing countries in their efforts to reduce emissions from ships and in ports.
Participants will work together to exchange experience, knowledge and best practice, and undertake joint resource mobilization with a view to cooperate and collaborate on actions to reduce greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions from ships and the activities of ships in ports, within the frameworks of the NextGEN Connect initiative and the GreenVoyage2050 Project.
The NextGEN Connect initiative was established between the IMO and the MPA in April 2022. The initiative aims to bring industry, academia and global research centres together, to offer inclusive solutions for maritime decarbonization for trials along shipping routes.
The IMO-Norway GreenVoyage2050 Project was established in May 2019 by the IMO, with funding from the Government of Norway to support developing countries, including Small Islands Developing States (SIDS) and Least Developed Countries (LDCs), in their efforts to implement the Initial IMO Strategy on the Reduction of GHG Emissions from Ships.
The MoU was signed on by Mr Kitack Lim, Secretary-General of the IMO, Mr Sveinung Oftedal, Chief Negotiator for Green Shipping of the Norwegian Ministry of Climate and Environment, and Mr Teo Eng Dih, Chief Executive of the MPA, on the side-lines of the 14th Intersessional Working Group on the Reduction of GHG Emissions from Ships (ISWG-GHG 14), convened at the IMO Headquarters in London.
Kitack Lim said: "IMO is pleased to combine the capabilities of the IMO-Norway GreenVoyage2050 project and the IMO-Singapore NextGEN Connect initiative to collectively implement green shipping activities, in particular those that can support development of low and zero-carbon fuels and related bunkering infrastructure."
Sveinung Oftedal said: “Joining forces through this cooperation will strengthen the support to decarbonising the maritime sector in developing countries. We very much look forward to working together with Singapore in these supportive actions, as well as widening the cooperation with the IMO in their leading role to assist decarbonisation of the maritime sector in developing countries.”
MPA’s Mr Teo Eng Dih said: “We are pleased to collaborate with the IMO and the Norwegian Ministry of Climate and Environment to accelerate decarbonisation efforts in the maritime industry. This MoU is an important partnership that brings together our projects with the mutual goal to test solutions along shipping routes. This will help reduce greenhouse gas emissions from shipping in an inclusive manner and with the support of like-minded States, aggregate demand along the supply chain.”
Nor-Shipping partners to fuel progress with dedicated hydrogen conference
Nor-Shipping is partnering with Ocean Hyway Cluster, Norway’s leading Hydrogen network, and cluster organisation Maritime CleanTech to deliver The Second Nor-Shipping Hydrogen Conference on 7 June. The event, taking place at Nor-Shipping’s main exhibition halls in Lillestrøm, will feature experts pooled from right across the emerging hydrogen value chain, delivering insights on the very latest developments for one of maritime’s most promising ‘green’ future fuels.
“The development and adoption of hydrogen as a key maritime fuel requires expertise, knowledge sharing and close collaboration across the entire value chain,” remarks Ada Jakobsen (pictured), CEO, Maritime CleanTech. “With this conference we aim to provide a platform for partnerships, bringing first movers in the hydrogen field together with the broader industry to accelerate developments. Nor-Shipping, as a leading global hub for the ocean space, is the perfect place to do that.”
Sidsel Norvik, Director, Nor-Shipping, comments: “Hydrogen has long been identified as one of the potential ‘silver bullet’ solutions for deep sea maritime fuel as we look to a sustainable future. However, it can be difficult to understand exactly how far we’ve come in terms of turning that promise into reality, and what the main challenges, and opportunities, are on the horizon.
“This conference, held together with two renowned specialist organisations, will help demystify the hydrogen landscape, delivering real value for our global audience of decisionmakers. This is the place to be for any stakeholder interested in unlocking the potential of maritime hydrogen.”
Taking place in Studio N, Hall A2, the official programme runs from 13.00 to 16.00, with an informal lunch and networking from 12.00. A broad range of speakers has already been confirmed, with participants including Magnus Krogh Ankarstrand of Yara Clean Ammonia, Amon Maritime’s André Risholm, Mathieu Longueville from Flagships/ Sogestran, Norled’s Heidi Wolden, and Christian Berg from Amogy, amongst others.
The programme features introductions, keynote speakers, development presentations and lively debates tailored to answer the key questions industry has on hydrogen.
Nor-Shipping runs from 6-9 June, bringing the global maritime and ocean industries together at venues across Oslo and Lillestrøm. In addition to 22,000m2 of exhibition space, a host of social, networking and knowledge sharing activities are planned, including the Ocean Leadership Conference, the first ever Nor-Shipping Offshore Wind and Offshore Aquaculture Conferences, The Nor-Shipping BBQ, the Fourth International Autonomy Summit, and the AfterWork@AkerBrygge social scene.
Idwal secures growth investment from LDC
Idwal Marine Services (‘Idwal’), a leading provider of inspection services for the global commercial shipping sector, has secured a significant investment from private equity partner LDC to support the development of its proprietary technology platform and expand its global service footprint.
Based in Cardiff, Idwal provides vessel condition and integrity inspection services, fleet monitoring and data services for customers across the marine industry. Its services are used by ship owners, brokers, ship operators, flag states, investors and other financial stakeholders when evaluating investments or divestments in marine assets and when assessing the condition of vessels and fleets.
The business was originally founded as a division of Graig Shipping PLC (“Graig”) in 2010. With its investment and support, Idwal has grown quickly under CEO Nick Owens due to increased demand from its global customers and its focus on consistency, integrity and data-led inspections in the global maritime sector. Its Idwal Grade® asset condition rating enables sector peer-group benchmarking and has become a recognised standard in the industry,
The business, a certified carbon neutral organisation, was the first in the industry to include both decarbonisation metrics and crew welfare and working condition data in their reports. It is also focused on the provision of advanced ESG reporting to ensure that its customers are meeting increasingly stringent sector wide environmental reporting requirements.
With LDC’s support, Idwal’s management team will further develop the platform, data and service provision and expand its network of overseas offices, which already includes China, Greece and Japan.
Graig, a 100-year-old UK based entrepreneurial global shipping group, specialises in structuring, advising and leading investments in services and shipping assets in the international marine market. The company said Idwal was a further example of the group’s successful track-record of developing “best in class” marine based business innovations and ventures.
Graig is best known for its innovative Diamond dry bulk new building series, which it contracted in the 2000s, placing 86 vessel contracts across six shipyards in Asia.
Graig said it was already “well-advanced” in its next maritime venture to bring to the market high quality, environmentally friendly Service Operation Vessels for the rapidly growing global offshore wind and renewables sector, working with its global partners.
LDC’s investment was led by Dewi Hughes, Oliver Schofield and James Garland from its Wales & South West team. Dewi Hughes and Oliver Schofield will join the Board.
As part of the investment, Gehan Talwatte, an experienced chairman of several high-growth, private equity backed companies in the data services sector - including maritime data, insight and intelligence business Lloyd’s List Intelligence - has been appointed Non-Executive Chairman of Idwal.
Simon Morse, an experienced senior shipping executive with extensive marine services and private equity board expertise, has been appointed Non-Executive Director. He is the former CEO of Inchcape Shipping Services and a Past President of the Institute of Chartered Shipbrokers.
Nick Owens, CEO of Idwal, said: “This is the ideal outcome for both Idwal and Graig, as well as our customers and colleagues. As an independent company with the support of LDC, Idwal is strongly positioned to increase investment in its services and its international presence.”
Commenting on its partnership, he added: “The LDC team were exactly what we were looking for. Their local presence and successful track record in helping technology businesses develop and scale made them the ideal partner to support our growth plans.”
Hugh Williams, CEO of Graig, said: “Idwal has grown from a new service to a genuine leader in its field with significant potential. For us, this was an intentional next step for Idwal and is part of Graig’s strategy to refocus the business on its core shipping investments and with the fast-growing offshore renewables sector. We look forward to continuing to partner with Idwal in our markets.”
Dewi Hughes, Partner and Head of LDC’s South West & Wales team, said: “Nick and the team have successfully built Idwal into a globally respected business with a reputation for sustainable and innovative services in an evolving marketplace. Now, with the opportunity to further develop its technology platform and further penetrate overseas markets, they will be able to fulfil their ambition to make Idwal the global leader and the Idwal Grade the pre-eminent standard in the international commercial shipping market.”
LDC was advised by KPMG (corporate finance), Blake Morgan (legals), OC&C (commercial due diligence), BDO (financial due diligence) and EY (tax). The management team was advised by Lexington (finance) and Capital Law (legals).
Graig was advised by Stout (corporate finance) and Taylor Wessing (legals).
Swedish Club boosts management team
The Swedish Club is looking to the future with the expansion and restructuring of the Club’s management team. In a move designed to reflect today’s complex business landscape it has announced three new roles which will position the Club to anticipate and meet the changing demands of its members and business partners. This follows the strengthening of the Club’s regional presence with two new high-profile appointments in Hong Kong and London announced last month.
Thorbjörn Emanuelsson has been appointed Director, Underwriting; Johan Kahlmeter will step into the position of Director, Claims; and Magnus Axelsson has been appointed Director IT and Digital Transformation.
Thomas Nordberg, (pictured) Managing Director of The Swedish Club, says: “I am delighted to welcome these three new appointees to exciting new roles in the Club’s management team. When I joined the Club, I was always clear that one of the first steps would be to ensure that the management team has the optimum functionality and the perfect task and responsibility allocation.
"We are placing two of our most experienced people in those strategically significant areas, Hong Kong and London. All our offices need to be as efficient as possible, with proper licences in all areas as we advance, and balance retaining ‘The Swedish Club’ brand and being part of the local business community.
“It is essential to adjust to developments in the industry,” he adds. “We have to be able to predict and be prepared to boost resources to meet demands. Our business is becoming increasingly complex, and our members need more specialisation in many areas. This means finding ways to organise the Club to promote in-depth competence is crucial.”
Thorbjörn Emanuelsson, the new Director, Underwriting, joins The Swedish Club from Gard, where he held the role of Vice President in the Hong Kong Operation. He has a solid background in marine insurance and in-depth underwriting knowledge.
Johan Kahlmeter, new Director, Claims, has been with The Swedish Club for 16 years and began his career as a trainee in the Gothenburg office. He has a specialised knowledge in the field of claims, and is currently Area Manager with Team Sweden.
Magnus Axelsson, new Director IT and Digital Transformation, knows the Club well, having spent 23 years developing IT projects for the Club. This new role recognises the digital transformation taking place in the industry, and the importance of the IT function in all the Club’s decision-making processes.
The first step in this restructuring recognised the importance of the Club’s Teams, with the appointment of Lars A. Malm, formerly Director Strategic Business Development and Client Relations, to the role of Managing Director and Area Manager, Team Hong Kong, and Tord Nilsson, formerly Director, Underwriting, Reinsurance and Risk Control to head Team UK in London.
-Ends -
ICS publishes landmark medical guide, to improve the lives of seafarers and fishers at sea
Given the remote nature of shipping, seafarers know that their life may sometimes depend on at-hand practical information readily available during the first crucial moments after an on board medical emergency arises. Medical guidance covering illness, injuries and other health issues needs to be readily available as a vital aid to saving lives, in fact, international regulations call for a medical guide to be carried on commercial ships that do not have a doctor on board, which includes most merchant ships in operation.
Recognising this need, the International Chamber of Shipping (ICS) has published the International Medical Guide for Seafarers and Fishers, in collaboration with the International Maritime Health Association (IMHA) and the International Transport Workers’ Federation (ITF). The medical guide’s content has been created by an international team of maritime medical experts that ICS called on to provide the latest medical knowledge on all injuries, illnesses, and health issues experienced on ships and fishing vessels. All members of the guide’s technical review group dedicated themselves to creating a medical guide that could improve seafarers’ working conditions and make a remarkable difference in seafarers’ and fishers’ lives while on board vessels.
“Seafarers are among the most isolated people on earth when it comes to medical care and we should do everything possible to help them and assist them,” says Dr Robert Verbist, president of the International Maritime Health Association (IMHA).
The ICS medical guide consists of: the main medical guide, featuring the latest medical knowledge with clear and practical explanations of procedures throughout; a ship’s medicine chest detailing the medicines and equipment that should be carried on board, and 10 action cards that can be removed and carried anywhere on the ship to immediately assess an emergency medical situation.
The guide features an easy-to-use format for a non-medical professional to navigate and apply in a medical situation, by way of 3D visual aids, tables, charts, and assessments to help crew follow procedures correctly.
In developing this medical guide, ICS emphasised the importance of presenting the information in terminology that can be understood internationally due to the many nationalities that make up modern seafaring, and including the latest medicines that can be sourced in all regions of the world. Dr Robert Verbist, says: “This guide was reviewed by an international group of maritime medical specialists to ensure the language and terminology are international. Anything being done to improve the health care of seafarers must be done in a multinational context.”
Intended to accelerate the provision of medical care at the place where it happens, the International Medical Guide for Seafarers and Fishers also solves a problem for ships sailing under flags who do not have a national guide. It includes new dedicated chapters on assessing and treating mental health issues, seasickness and how to communicate with telemedical services.
“We recognised the urgent need for updated medical information and this was highlighted when we saw the overwhelming and positive response to the medical materials we published during COVID-19,” says Natalie Shaw, MBE, director of employment affairs at the International Chamber of Shipping, referring to the extensive resources published by ICS to explain practices to protect seafarer health during the COVID-19 pandemic. “Having established relationships with medical experts for many years, we undertook the extensive process of producing a completely new, comprehensive, and practical guide covering all medical situations that would provide modern medical support for crew and for shipping companies.”
The International Medical Guide for Seafarers and Fishers, is priced at £225 and is available in print and digital ebook. More information can be found on the ICS Publications website: https://publications.ics-shipping.org.
-ends-
Survitec secures cruise contract for nitrogen IG systems
Maritime Protection, a brand of global Survival Technology solutions provider Survitec, has secured an order for a set of nitrogen systems for installation on an LNG-powered cruise ship.
The company, which has hailed the contract as significant, has welcomed the opportunity to support the cruise industry with its transition to alternative fuels, in particular, to offer expertise on the implementation of IG (inert gas) systems as an important safety measure.
Mark Clegg, Managing Director, Fire Systems, Survitec, said: “This order signals Survitec as a trusted partner to the cruise industry. While our Inert Gas (IG) systems have already gained widespread use in other ship types, the passenger ship sector has only recently begun to explore the technology. From our standpoint, a cruise ship is no different from any other vessel. Nevertheless, this latest contract win allows us to expand our market, and we anticipate more orders as more passenger vessels shift towards cleaner fuels.”
The scope of supply is for two nitrogen generators, feed-air compressors, valves, and control cabinets. Scheduled for delivery in 2025, the 51,950gt newbuild is the first cruise ship for this Japanese owner to be built in Europe. There is an option for a second vessel.
About ten LNG-fuelled cruise ships are currently in operation, with a further 25 set to join the global fleet over the next five years. Engines operating on LNG, ammonia, and methanol, in particular, require an N2 system for safety reasons.
Rune Moseidjord, Sales Manager, Maritime Protection, explained. “Nitrogen is used to purge the fuel gas system before and after engine start-up or when any maintenance work is carried out. It creates a safer, more stable environment.
“It is crucial for any passenger ship going down the alternative fuel route to have a low maintenance, reliable, affordable N2 system. The benefit of our IG systems is that each one is engineered to order, designed to meet the requirements of each individual ship.”
Maritime Protection’s nitrogen systems are easy to install and fully automatic with PLC control. Furthermore, the system can be supported by the brand’s remote assistance offer, which enables support services, such as technical support and troubleshooting, to be delivered remotely.
Commenting on the cruise sector’s wide acceptance of LNG bunkering, David Welch, Shipyard Sales Manager (Global Cruise), Survitec, said: “We're seeing an increase in passenger ship operators specifying vessels with engines capable of running on LNG. The sector is really pushing the green agenda as some destinations are now limiting the size and number of ships burning heavy fuel oil, but shipowners must consider the fire risk.
“The consequence of a fire from these alternative fuels can be substantial. This requires a higher focus on fire prevention through the use of inert gas systems and very early detection through the monitoring of gas pressures and temperatures,” he said.
“Our Head Start initiative was designed with this in mind: we support ship owners and work with them from first designs to scope their requirements and design a total fire protection and safety management package. We can help them to set up their vessel for a lifetime of safety at sea.”
Survitec also supplies nitrogen IG systems to cruise and ropax ferries running on LNG as a marine fuel, having recently secured orders from shipyards in Poland and Turkey.
ClassNK grants Innovation Endorsement Provider certification to YUSEN LOGISTICS
Classification Society ClassNK has granted its Class C Innovation Endorsement Provider Certification to YUSEN LOGISTICS CO., LTD.
ClassNK offers its third-party Innovation Endorsement "Provider Certification", which supports innovative initiatives, to companies and organizations. As companies pursue ESG-oriented management and SDGs, ClassNK conducts third-party certification on the initiatives to transform their own business methods and organizations to establish a sustainable and competitive business.
There are three categories of certification available to companies according to their innovation activity stage as follows:
Class C (Concept: Organizational policy and system in place for innovation);
Class D (Development: Specific innovation activities being carried out);
Class S (Sustainable Implementation: Sustainable innovation with results implemented in the business).
YUSEN LOGISTICS has set a group goal of achieving net-zero emissions for all services by 2050 to realise sustainable growth and development for all stakeholders. As an interim goal, it aims to start providing net-zero emission services by 2030, which covers the entire supply chain of customers including logistics by building solutions using digital technology.
The company has established the ‘Corporate Sustainability Group’ to comprehensively consider and visualise the best balance between the logistics business and social issues faced by customers and provide optimal solutions.
ClassNK carried out the review focusing on their policy, planning, and organization to achieve sustainable growth of their group and stakeholders, then issued the Class C Innovation Endorsement Certificate for Providers as their organizational structure was found to meet the requirements of the Class C stage.
Norsepower secures €28 million from investors for Rotor Sails production
Norsepower has successfully secured 28 million euros in its latest Series C fundraising round for production of its Rotor Sail™ wind-assisted propulsion systems.
French asset manager Mirova, an affiliate of Natixis Investment Management dedicated to sustainable investment, led the fundraising through its impact private equity Mirova Environment Acceleration Capital fund. Additional participants in the round included The Finnish Climate Fund (Ilmastorahasto), OGCI Climate Investments, Nefco – The Nordic Green Bank, Tesi, and Power Fund III.
With a focus on impact, these organisations have joined forces to enable Norsepower to scale up Rotor Sail™ production and expand the reach of its fuel-saving and emissions-reducing technology.
On a mission to decarbonise the shipping industry, Norsepower is committed to harnessing the power of the wind for large ships. According to Norsepower, there are currently 30,000 vessels on the water today that can benefit from award-winning Norsepower Rotor Sails™, which highlights the opportunity to reduce CO2 emissions across the global fleet by 80 megatons on an annual basis.
The Norsepower Rotor Sail™ is a modernised version of the Flettner rotor. It uses a minimal amount of the ship’s electric power to rotate cylinder-shaped rotors on the ship’s deck. Rotation together with wind generates powerful thrust – saving fuel and reducing emissions.
The product has already been used by customers for over eight years and has 250,000 operating hours of verified performance data acquired from some of the world’s best-known shipping companies and charterers. This performance data includes installations in collaboration with customers including Bore, Sea-Cargo, Scandlines, Vale, CLdN, Nippon Marine, and Socatra who have selected Norsepower Rotor Sails™ for improving fuel efficiency and reducing the emissions of their shipping operations.
The data – which shows fuel consumption savings of 5-25%, or even more - has been measured and analysed independently by Lloyd’s Register, one shipping’s leading providers of classification, compliance and consultancy services to the marine and offshore industries, as well as ABB, NAPA, Chalmers University of Technology and VTT.
Provided as a combination of equity financing and loans, the breadth and scale of the investment round, combined with the increased participation of existing investors, signals a clear vote of confidence in Norsepower’s ability to deliver on its objectives. The new funding will help accelerate Norsepower’s scale of production and help to meet increasing global demand. It will also strengthen Norsepower’s product research & development, marketing, recruitment, and sizeable intellectual property portfolio.
Commenting on the funding, Tuomas Riski, CEO, Norsepower, said: “Our goal is simple – to cut the emissions of large ships by saving fuel with our proven Norsepower Rotor Sails™. We are going to bring a modern spin to wind propulsion technology. We empower the industry to use our product alongside other technologies to achieve zero-carbon, cost effective sailing.
"The additional funding from one of the world’s leading sustainability investors is a massive leap in the right direction and a clear vote of confidence in our brilliant team, innovative technology, and the overall trajectory of our business.”
New ISWAN infographic shines spotlight on issues faced by seafarers in 2022
The International Seafarers’ Welfare and Assistance Network (ISWAN) has shared insights into the issues faced by seafarers and their families in 2022 with a new infographic of data from its helplines.
ISWAN operates several free, international, confidential helplines providing 24-hour help and support to seafarers and their families around the world. In 2022, ISWAN’s helpline services assisted over 13,600 seafarers and their families of 94 different nationalities, handling over 16,000 calls and messages.
The impact of the war in Ukraine was clearly reflected in the number of Ukrainian seafarers and their families who sought help from ISWAN’s helplines in 2022, which increased by 674% compared to the previous year.
The Ukraine crisis, along with the ongoing impact of the COVID-19 pandemic and the after-effects of Typhoon Rai in the Philippines, meant that many seafarers around the world experienced financial hardship in 2022. Contacts relating to financial difficulties more than doubled year-on-year on ISWAN’s SeafarerHelp helpline, mainly from those seeking financial support from the Ukraine Crisis Support Fund, a relief fund administered by ISWAN on behalf of the Seafarers International Relief Fund.
Abuse, bullying, harassment and discrimination were reported much more frequently to ISWAN’s helplines in 2022 than the previous year. Contacts relating to these issues increased by over a quarter in 2022 generally, and on ISWAN’s helpline service for yacht crew, Yacht Crew Help, this number rose by 81%. ISWAN highlighted abuse, bullying, harassment and discrimination as an important area for attention on World Mental Health Day last October and is working with partners from across the sector to develop a new project to address these important issues.
ISWAN plans to release insights from its helplines on a quarterly basis to provide the maritime industry with intelligence on global seafarer issues, in order to inform decision-making for positive change.
ISWAN’s infographic, ISWAN Insights: Spotlight on 2022, can be downloaded here. For more information, please contact ISWAN at iswan@iswan.org.uk.
Norton Rose Fulbright advises on sustainability and gender diversity linked loan
Global law firm Norton Rose Fulbright has advised ABN AMRO, as documentation agent and sustainability coordinator for a syndicate of lenders, on a $200m sustainability and gender diversity linked loan to Navigator Gas for the re-financing of 10 LNG carriers.
The deal, which completed on 28 March, incorporates KPIs linked to both the environmental performance of Navigator’s fleet and – in what is a new development for the shipping industry - the number of women holding leadership roles at Navigator.
·
The Norton Rose Fulbright team was led by partner and global co-head of shipping Simon Hartley, with support from associate Oliver Webber and trainee Maria-Christina Papoulia.
Simon Hartley (pictured) said: “This was a highly innovative form of financing - it is great to be able to see and play a part in the emergence of new forms of financing, knowing that they will help to support the development of future diversity in leadership within the sector.”
The firm’s global shipping lawyers advise a range of clients on the full spectrum of international shipping finance including work for banks, lessors, brokers, owners and operators worldwide. They also cover areas ranging from anti-competitive actions to ship conversion disputes, the latest environmental regulation and the digitalisation of the industry.
Bureau Veritas introduces CHART cyber health checking tool
Testing, inspection and certification leader, Bureau Veritas, has launched its new Cyber Health Analysis Report Tool (CHART) to help shipowners gain a better understanding of their ships’ digital architecture (OT/IT), specific vulnerabilities and level of preparedness to potential cyber threats.
The aim is to offer a comprehensive technical assessment of a vessel’s cyber resilience at specific moments in its lifetime, responding to the need to constantly review, maintain and update systems in the face of evolving cyber threats.
The tool provides a comprehensive audit of the vessel’s equipment, networks, security mechanisms and interconnections, to ensure that these systems are fully known to the owner and validate their compliance with cybersecurity standards, including recent regulations from, IACS and flag states. The analysis delivered provides a “cybersecurity health check report”, together with recommended mitigation measures.
CHART by BV was developed to help shipowners evaluate and increase the cyber resilience of their vessels, which is a core priority as connected systems have become a common feature of modern ships.
Paul Delouche, Strategy & Advanced Services Director at Bureau Veritas Marine & Offshore, said: “The monitoring and remote management of connected and even hyper-connected systems, as well as cloud-based web applications, have become instrumental to improve ships’ performance and efficiency. While their benefits are undeniable, these systems also increase the surface for potential cyber-attacks. Such incidents could compromise valuable cargo and entire fleet operations, as well as the safety of the ship and crew. Therefore, cybersecurity must be taken into consideration during the whole lifecycle of a vessel.
“Our role at BV is to support companies with our technical expertise on the cyber security ecosystem, and our knowledge of the highest industry standards, to help them progress in their digital resilience journey with the confidence that the right safeguards are in place to protect their systems and critical data. Our goal is to enable shipowners to protect their assets, define expectations for shipyards and equipment manufacturers, and support compliance with flag authority, IACS and IMO regulations.”
The new tool can validate a ship’s compliance with upcoming IACS Cyber Resilience Unified Requirements UR E26, which will require the implementation of stringent cybersecurity protections and will be mandatory from 1 January 2024. The correct implementation of these standards can be validated by auditing networks and equipment to confirm compliance, and if not, the path towards it.
CHART by BV complements BV’s rules and notations on cybersecurity, providing the industry with a tool that ensures OT/IT architectures are correctly identified and protected from vulnerabilities.
Shipping needs to close the gap between digitisation and digitalisation says Thomas Zanzinger, CEO of Ocean Technologies Group
Speaking at CMA Shipping’s conference last week, Thomas Zanzinger, CEO of Ocean Technologies Group (OTG), outlined why he thought many maritime businesses were not capitalising on the opportunities that digitalisation affords them.
He explained that digitising the analogue information in a business was only the first step and that companies need to rethink and redesign their business processes to really take advantage of digital tools and new technologies.
With data increasingly used in global markets to benchmark businesses against their competitors, it’s never been more important to understand your information.
Zanzinger explained that the growth in connectivity and proliferation of application programme interfaces (APIs) is connecting previously disparate data sets and warned the conference audience that even if they were not on top of their data, then there is a good chance others will be, which could lead to financial and reputational consequences for their businesses.
He added that consumer pressure and investor relations around decarbonisation has already begun to shape financial considerations in the supply chain, citing Xeneta’s Carbon Emission Index as just one example.
As the focus on Environment, Social and Governance (ESG) grows, shipping companies must adopt data-gathering processes that can build a positive picture of their operations, giving confidence to financiers, governments, consumers and their own employees.
Zanzinger stated that this may be a challenge for shipping but also presents an opportunity to innovate, an essential component of staying competitive. He also encouraged companies to focus on their core competence and leverage proven existing solutions rather than seeking to build their own.
In closing the gap between digitisation and digitalisation, he believes that companies can break down siloes, leverage automation and drive continuous improvement by connecting people, data and processes to improve performance and demonstrate operational excellence.
ENDS
Strategic Marine opens new yard with delivery of SE Asia’s first hybrid CTV and unveiling of 4th-generation FCB
Specialist shipbuilder Strategic Marine, a leader in the construction and fabrication of aluminium craft, has marked the opening of a new shipyard facility at an official ceremony in Singapore attended by more than 100 guests this week. The ceremony also saw the handover of Southeast Asia’s first hybrid crew transfer vessel (CTV), and the unveiling of Strategic Marine’s fourth-generation fast crew boat (FCB).
Located on JTC’s waterfront site at 5 Benoi Road in western Singapore, the shipyard represents a significant upgrade to Strategic Marine's product and service offerings.
The new facility enables Strategic Marine to expand its shipbuilding capabilities and boost its maintenance and repair capabilities. It features a 5,000-DWT dry dock measuring 105m in length, 18.5m in width, and 8m in depth as well as a 6,000 DWT slipway.
"We are thrilled to officially open our new shipyard and continue our commitment to providing high-quality and class-leading vessels to our clients," said Mr Chan Eng Yew, CEO of Strategic Marine. "With the handover of Southeast Asia's first hybrid CTV to its new owners and the unveiling of our 4th-generation FCB, Strategic Marine continues to provide innovative solutions for the offshore wind and energy sectors."
As part of the opening ceremony, the hybrid CTV, HST Swansea, will be handed over to its new owner, UK-based HST Marine, along with its sister vessel, HST Tynemouth. This pair of vessels are the first two of four units ordered by HST Marine earlier this year.
Both vessels are designed for offshore windfarm operations and feature hybrid technology. Sea Forrest Power Solutions and Strategic Marine collaborated on the development of the parallel hybrid system on both vessels which will reduce main engine hours and maintenance, as well as significant reduction in operational carbon emissions.
After the handover ceremony, Strategic Marine unveiled its 4th-generation FCB, Gen-4 One, equipped with a gyro stabiliser and brand new hull form to ensure optimal safety for personnel transfers to offshore platforms and increased fuel efficiency.
It is also built to the highest safety and comfort standards to ensure the well-being of crew with spacious business class recliners, bow boarding and large deck storage areas with wide walkways.
"We are excited to showcase our latest FCB to the industry and demonstrate our commitment to providing safe and efficient crew transfer solutions," added Mr Chan. "Our 4th-generation fast crew boat is the result of years of research and development, and we believe it will set the standard for crew transfer vessels in the industry. We have also recently announced the Gen 4 with hybrid capability, a first for this class of asset, globally."
An official Memorandum of Understanding between the Association of Singapore Marine Industries (ASMI) and Strategic Marine, as well as ASMI's union partners, was also signed at the official opening of the shipyard.
Industry bodies unite to produce Guidelines for safe transport of Lithium-ion batteries in containers
The ‘Lithium-ion Batteries in Containers Guidelines’ is an in-depth advisory that seeks to prevent the increasing risks that the transport of lithium-ion batteries by sea creates, providing suggestions for identifying such risks and thereby helping to ensure a safer supply chain in the future. The Cargo Incident Notification System Network (CINS), together with its partners ICHCA International, the International Group of P&I Clubs and TT Club, has compiled a comprehensive publication covering the properties of these batteries and their potential to explode, initiate fires and emit toxic gases.
Extensive measures to safely transport what is an exponentially increasing volume of lithium-ion batteries, in their various states or charge and when also contained in electronic devices are fully examined including, classification and regulation, container packing, landside storage, stowage onboard ships, incident detection and fire suppression, and loss prevention and risk mitigation.
“We strongly urge all stakeholders in the production, supply, transport, handling and sale of lithium-ion batteries whether as individual components or integrated into an electronic device, vehicle or other product to recognise their responsibilities in maximising safety when in transit,” comments Dirk Van de Velde, who is Deputy Chair of CINS and a board member of the association of cargo handlers, ICHCA. “Our Guidelines will create greater awareness of the possibilities of the damaging and life-threatening incidents, which have already occurred, and instil more urgent motivation to act before more catastrophic disasters result.”
Intended as the first of an on-going series of publications to be updated as circumstances require this first Lithium-ion Batteries in Containers Guidelines (101.A) provides a general overview and will be followed by three further documents – regulatory compliance checklists, risk assessment and emergency response, and training and educational awareness. Stakeholders in the supply chain are encouraged to implement the advice according to their specific operations and requirements but to always keep safety of life as their primary consideration.
“As our experience of transporting lithium-ion batteries (LiB) widens and the technology surrounding their chemical composition, production and application rapidly evolves, risk controls and loss prevention measures need to keep pace,” adds Mark Smith, Loss Prevention Executive NorthStandard, International Group of P&I Clubs’ representative on the CINS LiB Working Group. “The work encapsulated in these Guidelines will, of necessity, continue and be undertaken in collaboration with all relevant stakeholders to increase our knowledge and understanding of the risks posed by carriage of lithium – ion batteries in containers by sea.”
Peregrine Storrs-Fox, Risk Management Director at freight transport insurer TT Club concludes: “As the pressure on all forms of economic activity for decarbonisation increases, the use of these batteries will inevitably escalate at rates we have previously not experienced. Air transport has been heavily restricted already and it is clear that surface modes will be called upon to transport these goods. As an adaptable unit, the container will remain a focal point for safe transport, including for EVs alongside other vehicle carriers.
“The intermodal nature of containers means more actors other than shipping lines, be they manufacturers, packers, forwarders, logistics operators, warehouses and cargo handlers must all be cognisant of the safety issues we are addressing and play their part in ensuring the risks are properly managed.”
Gulf Marine Services wins two new contract awards
UAE-based Gulf Marine Services (GMS), a leading supplier of self-propelled and self-elevating support vessels for the offshore oil, gas, and renewables sectors, is pleased to announce the award of two new contracts for one of its small K-Class vessels (pictured) in the Middle East Gulf region.
The company says that the daily rates secured for these contracts reflect strong demand for its vessels. The first contract is set to commence at the end of Q1, and the second at the start of Q3, spanning a cumulative period of 272 days.
Mansour Al Alami GMS Executive Chairman commented: "These awards reflect positively on the continued strength of market conditions, and we are optimistic about the prospects for the remainder of 2023, with high levels of utilisation and a tight market continuing to be reflected in the day rates achieved".
The GMS fleet of 13 SESVs is amongst the youngest in the industry, with an average age of eight years. The vessels support GMS's clients in a broad range of offshore oil and gas platform refurbishment and maintenance activities, well intervention work and offshore wind turbine maintenance work, as well as offshore oil and gas platform installation and decommissioning and offshore wind turbine installation.
The SESVs are categorised by size - K-Class (Small), S-Class (Mid) and E-Class (Large) - with these capable of operating in water depths of 45m to 80m depending on leg length. The vessels are four-legged and are self-propelled, which means they do not require tugs or similar support vessels for moves between locations in the field; this makes them significantly more cost-effective and time-efficient than conventional offshore support vessels without self-propulsion. They have a large deck space, crane capacity and accommodation facilities (for up to 300 people) that can be adapted to the requirements of the Group's clients.
KCC releases revised Environmental Strategy until 2050 to pave way for shipping’s cost-effective decarbonisation
Klaveness Combination Carriers (KCC), one of the world’s largest operators in its sector, has released its revised Environmental Strategy for 2023-2050, setting out a phased strategy for the company to gradually decarbonise in cost-effective fashion.
“Our course is set on a 45% reduction in carbon intensity by 2030 compared against 2018,” says CEO Engebret Dahm, “driven largely by substantial efficiency improvements. With our combination trading already delivering 30-40% lower carbon intensity than our competitors, we are front and centre to deliver on the transition to cost-effective, low carbon shipping.”
KCC notes that three years on from releasing its first Environmental Strategy in 2020, shipping is falling behind schedule on IMO’s 2030 targets as the choice and availability of new fuels, technology, and future regulatory framework remains highly uncertain.
Dahm comments: “Given the uncertainty surrounding our industry, our current focus is on delivering sustainable and cost-effective decarbonisation through efficiency improvements while preparing for the future transition to new fuels. Our decarbonisation journey has a unique starting point with our combination carriers, and we are full steam ahead to reach our revised ambitions.”
KCC’s principal ambitions for the period 2023-26 are to reduce carbon intensity by 30% compared to 2018 using the following key levers:
• Optimise trading efficiency – Customer collaboration is essential, with sustainability-linked freight contracts having the potential to play a key role. New trading rules including a shadow carbon pricing will increase incentives for the most carbon efficient trading.
• Perfect voyage efficiency – Fleet digitalization and continued investment in people onboard and onshore.
• Improve energy efficiency – Continued deployment of ongoing and new energy efficiency initiatives in the fleet.
Principal ambitions for 2027-30 are to reduce carbon intensity by 45% compared to 2018, to which end the company will:
• Introduce biofuels – Sustainable biofuels shall constitute a minimum 15% the fuel mix.
• Phase in zero emissions fuels and vessels – Fleet renewal is taking place with an ambition to see the introduction of the first zero emission vessel by 2030.
• Seek regulatory and customer support to spur the fuel transition –in order to get the first zero-emission vessel in service and start using zero-emission fuels in daily operations. KCC says it is unlikely to succeed advancing far with the targeted fuel transition on its own.
Looking ahead to 2050, by when it aims to achieve net zero across all operations. KCC believes it will have a competitive advantage in:
• Delivering on cost-effective decarbonisation – Unique and efficient solutions, experience and competence, and close customer cooperation play to KCC’s strengths.
• Being well prepared to meet future regulatory requirements – KCC’s superior carbon efficiency will offer an important competitive advantage when new regulations are implemented, for example with trades to and from the EU after the implementation of shipping into EU ETS from 2024.
Channel ports and DFDS join forces to decarbonise cross-Channel transport
Seizing on the recent political declaration by the French President Emmanuel Macron and UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak, climate neutral cross-Channel transportation moved a step closer last week. The Channel ports and ferry operator DFDS signed a Memorandum of Understanding (pictured) to collaborate on decarbonising maritime traffic on the Dover Straits.
Routes between Dover and France provide 59% of all ferry journeys between the UK and the European Union and carry 33% of the UK’s trade in goods with the bloc. Recognising the vital importance of the route, the recent Anglo-French summit agreed accelerated joint effort to support the establishment of green shipping corridors between the two nations. The largest cross-Channel ferry operator on the route, DFDS, together with the Port of Dover, Port Boulogne Calais, and Dunkerque-Port has grasped this momentum to agree a joint programme of work that will enable the electrification of maritime traffic on the Channel.
This continues the momentum established by the work of the Green Corridor Short Straits consortium to investigate steps to decarbonise the cross-Channel ferry fleet, part-funded by the UK Department for Transport’s Clean Maritime Demonstration Competition. The project is a collaboration between the Port of Dover, cross-Channel ferry operators, the University of Kent, and other key academic and industry stakeholders. In parallel to work on its energy strategy, the Port of Dover has also launched industry-leading commitments to be Carbon Net Zero for Scope 1 and 2 by 2025 and Scope 3 by 2030.
The initiative will mean that carbon neutral cross-Channel shipping, with zero emission battery-powered electric ferries and charging facilities at the ports, could be a reality by 2030. This would deliver a major boost to achieving the objective of decarbonizing the global maritime sector.
Patrice Vergriete, mayor of Dunkirk, said: "Innovation, alternative mobility, new energy mix, production of green hydrogen, training in professions in the low-carbon sectors of the future, improvement of air quality... Dunkirk has the ambition to implement the first French hub dedicated to decarbonization, in all its dimensions.”
Isabelle Ryckbost, secretary general, European Sea Ports Organisation (ESPO), said: “Being a partner in the green transition is a top priority for Europe’s ports. There is no time, no money to lose. Greening the shipping sector is both a technological and financial challenge. The best way to go forward is to think, engage, work and invest together. The MoU is a good example. Three ports and a shipping line creating a coalition of the willing to find the best way to effectively cut emissions as soon as possible and avoid stranded assets.”
Dunkerque-Port has established a decarbonisation roadmap outlining its commitments to decarbonise and obtained ECOPORT certification for its best practice sustainable development work. Port Boulogne-Calais is reducing carbon emissions through its environmental planning commitments, including ISO 14 001 certification and it is targeting ISO 50 001 certification for its energy management systems in 2023.
Torben Carlsen, CEO at DFDS, said: “The MoU we have signed outlines our shared ambition to invest in the development and delivery of battery-powered electric or fuel-electric ferries and the infrastructure required to charge them in the ports. We have established a clear timeline and this is a key milestone in our work together to become carbon neutral.”
Doug Bannister, chief executive at the Port of Dover, said: “The commitment by the Port of Dover, DFDS and our French partner ports, together with the ongoing support of our two other ferry operators, puts us in the perfect position to drive the work of the newly announced France-UK taskforce to develop a roadmap toward the deployment of zero emission technology and enabling infrastructure. With 130 ferry movements a day on the world’s busiest shipping lane, this will place the Short Straits at the vanguard of decarbonisation within the global maritime industry.
“Having launched our Targeting Our Sustainable Future programme in 2022, Port of Dover is well on track to achieve net-zero carbon emissions (Scope 1 and 2) by 2025 as we work with our partners to support the transition to zero-emission vessels and a green shipping corridor between the UK and France.”
Benoit Rochet, CEO Port Boulogne Calais, said: “We naturally support our customers, the maritime operators, in cooperation with the Port of Dover, in their energy transition and decarbonization of the Channel. The shared ambition is to move towards carbon neutrality by 2030, which will necessarily involve the design of new generation vessels using propulsion technologies that are more environmentally friendly.”
Maurice Georges, CEO, Dunkerque-Port, said: “We are very pleased with the collective and collaborative work to decarbonize the Channel initiated by DFDS, the ports of Boulogne-Calais, Dover, and Dunkirk. As the first European energy hub, the Dunkirk industrial-port zone will be there to support this major ambition to create a green corridor.”
RC Dock receives class approval from RINA for new remotely controlled unmanned workboats
RC Dock, a leader in marine automation, has achieved a milestone with class approval from RINA of its first Remotely Controlled Unmanned Workboats to operate up to 200 nautical miles from shore.
Based in Ijmuiden in The Netherlands, RC Dock is known for its innovative application of the latest technologies to support the shipping industry, including Unmanned Surface Vessels (USVs), automated USV mooring and refuelling docks, and USV launch and recovery systems. RINA has classed the first of its 20 new workboats that are able to conduct remotely controlled unmanned operations in areas such as Offshore Survey and Subsea Inspection, Maintenance and Repair (IMR).
Guido Garufi, Business Development Manager Benelux & North of France at RINA, says: “Autonomous and Remotely Controlled Unmanned Vessels are widely recognised as the future for many areas of shipping. This exciting project with RC Dock sees our first approval of this type of vessel and gives us valuable experience to support the industry as it embraces more and more automation.”
The workboats, which are less than 12m long, are designed to collect important data such as bathymetry, pollution levels, currents, seabed condition, weather and bird migration as well as for carrying out the monotonous duty of patrolling coastlines to observe illegal activities including pirating and drug dealing. Completely unmanned, they can either be operated remotely from a fixed Central Command Room (presently located in Ijmuiden, The Netherlands), or a mobile Remote Control Centre that can be located anywhere in the world.
RC Dock’s new 12m workboats, called ‘Marine Autonomous Robotic Intervention Platform’ (MARIP), are monitored 24/7 while at sea by a Master and a team of qualified watchkeepers based on-shore in the Control Room.
“The benefits of remotely controlled unmanned operation in these areas are clear,” explains Ronald J Kraft, Director and Founder at RC Dock Engineering BV. “Not only can these be mundane tasks which crews are often reluctant to spend a long time at sea to carry out, automating the vessels significantly increases safety and removes risk to human life. There are no concerns about working hours at sea and the vessels can operate at any time and in most conditions.
“There are clear cost savings without the need for a full crew at sea, but it is important to note that the industry is also recognizing that this is not about removing jobs, just moving them to a safer environment ashore and changing the skills required.”
“As part of this ground-breaking project, we worked closely with RC Dock and the marine authorities to clarify all concerns. Cybersecurity is obviously an essential area with such vessels along with all aspects of safety that need to be considered in this new way of operating,” adds Garufi (RINA).
Kraft concludes: “We are excited about this new adventure and appreciate the professional support and expertise supplied by RINA to make this project a success. This is the beginning of autonomous and remotely controlled unmanned operations for the shipping industry, but an area, I believe, which will continue to grow and expand into other areas.”
KR signs MOU with Microsoft Korea to collaborate on digital transformation
Korean Register (KR) has signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) with Microsoft Korea to collaborate on digital transformation and enhance their technological capabilities, with the aim of leading the digital transformation of the shipbuilding and maritime industry by leveraging fourth industrial revolution technologies.
Through this partnership, a joint working group between the two companies will be established to collaborate on digital transformation projects. It will focus on Cloud Conversion technology, artificial intelligence (AI) technology development, and digital workplace platform upgrades based on Microsoft Azure.
Microsoft's Azure cloud is one of the most widely used cloud providers in the industry, with 95% of Fortune 500 companies implementing digital transformation initiatives using Azure. In Korea, Microsoft offers cloud services with high performance, fast speed, safety, and a high level of security.
Currently, digital transformation through the application of fourth industrial revolution technology is recognized as a global hot topic across industries, and its necessity and demand are increasing. In line with this trend, the shipbuilding and maritime sector is actively applying cloud and AI technologies to achieve autonomous operations and improve ship safety.
KR has proactively pursued ‘digital and green’ initiatives in recent years to become a ‘leading digital classification society’. Through the new partnership, KR will be able to provide digital survey services with AI and stable infrastructure to KR customers.
“We plan to implement cloud technology in our system and introduce innovation in our offices by activating digital workplaces to improve productivity and create a flexible work environment. KR also plans to develop AI technology to actively respond to the global market competition in the maritime industry,” said LEE Hyungchul (pictured, left), KR Chairman & CEO.
“By collaborating with Microsoft Korea, we will lead the digital transformation of the shipbuilding and marine industries together,” he added.
"We have led innovative changes in various industries in Korea through Microsoft's global technological competitiveness, cloud Azure-based artificial intelligence technology, and modern workplace services," said LEE Jieun (right), CEO of Microsoft Korea.
Mental Health Support Solutions supports seafarers affected by earthquakes in Turkey and Syria
Although news teams might have moved on to other locations and different crises, for those Turks and Syrians who have been caught up in the recent earthquakes the situation continues to be critical. This is especially true for seafarers whose families live in the affected region.
Güven Kale, Chief Clinical Officer at Mental Health Support Solutions (MHSS), has seen first hand the difficulties these seafarers are facing. “Many seafarers were unable to reach their families and loved ones for days after news of the earthquakes first broke and didn’t know whether their families had survived. It has been incredibly difficult for them to be onboard while their families and friends have been struggling to deal with the devastation.”
While many affected seafarers chose to return home as soon as was possible, for others financial need has kept them onboard despite their desire to be on site supporting their families. However, it’s not only the mariners who have been suffering, many maritime offices are manned by Turkish or Syrian employees and they have been similarly distressed.
“MHSS has been providing therapy sessions to sailors who have been affected by the earthquakes, free of charge and for as long as is needed. I am Turkish and we also have an Arabic speaking psychologist so we have been able to offer support in people’s own language.”
The company has been seeing a number of symptoms from the people they are helping, problems with sleeping, loss of appetite and constant worry. The MHSS team have been giving the support necessary to help these people avoid longer term conditions such as post-traumatic stress disorder or depression. Güven continues, “We try to raise awareness about potentially traumatic situations through psychoeducation so that those we are supporting are prepared for what they may face.”
“Sadly I think the need for our services will increase in the coming months as the facts become clearer and they, and their families, experience the reality of living in temporary shelters, no longer having access to education for their children and facing difficulties in accessing health services. Many seafarers will have no choice but to take the heart-breaking decision to leave their families and return to sea in order to earn the money they need to rebuild their lives,” she concludes.
Seafarers affected by the earthquakes can contact MHSS by emailing info@mentalhealth-support.com or gueven@mentalhealth-support.com for support and a listening ear.
WFW advises Snam on commercial contracts for BW Singapore FSRU
Watson Farley & Williams (WFW) advised Snam Group on the drafting of commercial contracts relating to the floating regasification and storage unit (FSRU) BW Singapore with BW Fleet Management AS. The vessel will be based out of the port of Ravenna, Italy, in the northern Adriatic Sea giving it easy access to potential new LNG flows from North Africa and the Eastern Mediterranean.
The agreements include a contract for the design and construction of works necessary for the mooring of the FSRU and its connection to the gas transportation network at the port of Ravenna, as well as a contract covering its technical, commercial and crew management.
The cross-border WFW Assets & Structured Finance team that advised Snam was led by Rome Partner Michele Autuori, working closely with London Partner Joe McGladdery. They were supported by Milan Senior Associate Davide Canepa, and Associates Beatrice D'Amato and Noemi D'Alessio. They worked closely throughout the transaction with SNAM in-house counsel Umberto Baldi, Erica Anna Lisa Delbarba and Daniele Stazio. BW was advised by in-house counsel Iain Platfoot and a King & Spalding team comprising Partner Lachlan Clancy and Senior Associate Michael Meade.
Nor-Shipping launches Ocean Campus in partnership with World Maritime University
Nor-Shipping is launching a fresh initiative to strengthen and support the pipeline of new talent entering the world of maritime and ocean business.
Christened Ocean Campus, the dedicated ‘island’ of exhibition booths will showcase the world’s leading maritime universities and colleges, highlighting opportunities for potential students, while working to bridge the gap between employers and the talent of tomorrow. The World Maritime University (WMU) in Sweden, the IMO’s centre of excellence for postgraduate education, is the main Ocean Campus partner for both this year’s event, running from 6-9 June, and Nor-Shipping 2025.
Sidsel Norvik, Director, Nor-Shipping, says the need for such a bold initiative is “crystal clear”, commenting: “To develop smart, successful and sustainable business within the ocean space, industry has to bring the brightest talent onboard. The opportunities for growth – both individual and commercial – are immense, but we need to build the best foundations to facilitate that. We believe Ocean Campus can be a cornerstone.”
She explains: “The initiative works to promote our key educational establishments to students, while also alerting them to the huge potential of a career in the ocean space. It can also help establish links between these institutions and employers, opening up a talent stream that benefits everybody, including broader society. We’re excited about the potential here, and thrilled to have a partner of the World Maritime University’s standing in place for the future.”
The Ocean Campus island is to be centrally located within Hall E next to the popular Blue Talks stage. Representatives from the exhibiting schools will form an “Ocean Campus Committee”, working together with industry experts to tailor a programme for Friday June 9, the main Ocean Campus day. This day sees thousands of students and young people visiting Nor-Shipping (students can take advantage of free tickets all week) to discover how they can chart a future in the ocean space. Talks, presentations and debates will run on the adjacent stage throughout the day.
Alongside WMU, further confirmed campus participants include the Norwegian University of Science and Technology (NTNU), BI Norwegian Business School, UiT Arctic University of Norway, MLA College, Oslo MET and SINTEF Ocean. Norvik notes that the initiative is “the perfect fit” with Nor-Shipping 2023’s main theme of #PartnerShip.
Nor-Shipping runs from 6-9 June, bringing the global maritime and ocean industries together at venues across Oslo and Lillestrøm. In addition to 22,000m2 of exhibition space, a host of social, networking and knowledge sharing activities are planned, including the Ocean Leadership Conference, the first ever Nor-Shipping Offshore Wind and Offshore Aquaculture Conferences, The Nor-Shipping BBQ, the Fourth International Autonomy Summit, and the AfterWork@AkerBrygge social scene.
Hyundai GLOVIS partners with GoodFuels on first biofuel bunkering for a Korean-flagged PCTC vessel
GoodFuels, the leading biofuels provider for the global transport industry, has announced the successful completion of a first biofuel bunkering in collaboration with Hyundai GLOVIS, a global total logistics and distribution company. The bio-bunkering is the first for a Korean flagged PCTC (Pure Car and Truck Carrier) vessel and marks a new milestone for Hyundai GLOVIS as biofuels take a central role in the company’s sustainability strategy.
The vehicle carrier GLOVIS SUNRISE was refuelled with 500 MT of GoodFuels’ sustainable biofuel blend MDF1-30 during a port visit to Vlissingen (Flushing), in the Netherlands, on 28 December 2022. The trial took place during the vessel’s voyage between Europe and the Persian Gulf, ending in late January.
GoodFuels’ next-generation sustainable biofuel is produced from feedstocks that are certified as 100% waste or residue, including processed used cooking oil and animal waste fats. It delivers a well-to-exhaust CO2 reduction of 80 to 90 percent when compared to its fossil fuel equivalent. Thanks to its 'drop in' properties, the biofuel was delivered to and consumed by the GLOVIS SUNRISE without requiring any modifications to the engine or tanks.
This successful bio-bunkering demonstrates Hyundai GLOVIS’ commitment to deliver low-carbon transport solutions and is part of its global sustainability strategy. The company is committed to reducing greenhouse gas emissions from its fleet of 153 vessels, improving its capabilities for green logistics and expanding the utilisation of sustainable and renewable energy sources.
Dirk Kronemeijer, CEO of GoodFuels, said: “This first bio-bunkering in collaboration with Hyundai GLOVIS marks an exciting milestone towards decarbonised maritime transport and more sustainable supply chains. It also shows the central role that biofuels can play to reduce shipping’s carbon footprint today, as a safe, convenient and technically viable option to slash emissions from commercial vessels by up to 90%.
“We are delighted to see biofuels being adopted as a decarbonisation solution in more regions of the world, as this first bio-bunkering for a Korean vessel demonstrates. The climate emergency demands action now, and we are glad to be working with pioneers like Hyundai GLOVIS who are walking the talk of sustainable transport with concrete action.”
Commenting on this first bio-bunkering Tae-Woo KIM, Senior Vice President, Head of Shipping Business Division, at Hyundai GLOVIS said: “We are delighted to see the results of this biofuels trial, which shows that tangible emissions reductions can be achieved today on existing fleets. Biofuels will also play a key role in our future strategy, as we continue to develop a maritime transportation system tailored to the green supply chains of the future.”
Wärtsilä launches world-first radical derating solution for two-stroke engines
The technology group Wärtsilä has introduced a new radical derating retrofit solution – Wärtsilä Fit4Power - to extend the emissions-compliant lifetime of merchant vessels by providing the existing two-stroke fleet with leaner, healthier and more optimised engines.
This new advanced retrofit solution enables ship owners to reduce the bore size of two-stroke engines by 25% while significantly improving combustion efficiency, which in turn reduces both fuel consumption and greenhouse gas emissions. For owners, this will improve the efficiency of their existing fleet, ensuring compliance with Carbon Intensity Indicator (CII) regulations, and futureproofing assets against future environmental measures.
Wärtsilä 2-Stroke Services successfully completed the pilot installation of Wärtsilä Fit4Power onboard a container ship with large-bore two-stroke main engine last year. The results proved that a vessel with this kind of main engine, that is now oversized for today’s operating patterns, can save 2,000 tonnes of fuel and reduce at least 6,000 tonnes of CO2 emissions annually thanks to this retrofit solution. Fit4Power received certificate of product design assessment from American Bureau of Shipping (ABS) in 2022.
Ole Pyndt Hansen, Managing Director at Wärtsilä 2-Stroke Services, said: “With the IMO’s CII now in force, operators of merchant vessels need cost-effective solutions that can assure the long-term fitness of their existing fleet. Radical derating gives mid-life engines a new lease of life, with a power output and emissions profile that can take them through the early years of CII and prepare them for the most efficient use of new fuels needed to reach later emissions targets.”
While conventional derating merely tunes engines for operation at lower loads, Wärtsilä Fit4Power involves reducing the bore diameter of engine cylinders and introducing a new combustion chamber design, enabling the engine to run at optimal loads and with state-of-the-art fuel efficiency. The higher compression ratios and firing pressure achieved mean that the modified engine offers far greater efficiency than either conventionally derated engines or unmodified engines run at much lower loads.
Analysis from Wärtsilä shows that without modification, more than 80% of the global merchant fleet could fall into the lowest CII rating by 2030, requiring mandatory corrective action and risking losing business to more efficient vessels. Improving engine efficiency and optimisation with solutions such as Fit4Power is one of the simplest and most cost-effective means of reducing emissions.
The solution is also a step towards the economical use of alternative fuels to meet future emissions reduction targets. It is designed to be compatible with Wärtsilä Fit4Fuels (Wärtsilä’s Two-Stroke Future Fuels Conversion Platform), a cost-effective retrofit solution enabling vessels to use LNG, methanol and ammonia fuels. By improving efficiency in line with CII requirements ahead of this next step, radical derating extends the CII compliant lifetime of the vessel by three to five years, giving shipowners valuable breathing space ahead of making a commitment to a future fuel – potentially more if owners opt for low or zero-carbon drop-in biofuels.
By substantially renovating mid-life engines, radical derating also benefits operators by both reducing ongoing maintenance costs, lubricating costs and extending the lifecycle of the main engine. Radical derating is currently available only for RT-flex96C engines.
ABB drives emission-free river commute in Lisbon with first all-electric ferry
The first of 10 new, all-electric ferries opens a new age of emission-free commuter services along Lisbon’s Tagus River, in the latest example of green transformation from Portugal’s capital city. The vessel, whose operations rely on an integrated power, automation, energy storage and propulsion solution from ABB, has now been delivered to the ferry operator Transtejo by the Astilleros Gondán shipyard. Replacing a fleet of older, fossil fuel-burning ferries, the 40-metre, 540-passenger vessels will also improve passenger comfort and reduce operational and maintenance costs.
“Delivering the first of these 10 ferries is an important milestone for us, and it is a joy to see her on the water in Lisbon. We very much look forward to delivering the other nine,” said Antonio Pacheco, Director of GRP Division, Astilleros Gondán.
Ferry electrification is a key part of Portugal’s strategy to reach carbon neutrality by 2050. Consolidating Lisbon’s reputation as one of the most environmentally-friendly cities in the world, the electric ferry program continues a transformative period for a municipality which won the 2020 European Green Capital award.
“Lisbon is making waves as a pioneer in environmentally-friendly public transportation, as many of the world’s cities realize the benefits electric ferries bring for sustainability,” said Juha Koskela, Division President, ABB Marine & Ports. “ABB’s leading position in integrated electrification solutions for urban ferries is a highly visible example of our work to make the maritime industry safer, smarter, and more sustainable. We at ABB are proud to play a key role in shaping shipping’s new reality.”
With power distribution managed by ABB Onboard DC Grid™ ensuring that output of each ship’s 1,860-kWh battery pack is safe, reliable and optimized, ABB estimates the new ferries will cut about 6,500 tons in CO2 emissions along the Tagus river every year – equivalent to the emissions of 1,400 passenger cars.
ABB is also providing the control and rectifier systems for shore power as well as an advanced communications system which identifies the vessel arriving, its charging status and the power required, enabling the ferries to recharge within 5-10 minutes.
With latest figures from the Maritime Battery Forum showing 586 battery powered vessels in operation worldwide, and 195 more on order, ferry owners remain at the forefront of switching to hybrid and electric vessel propulsion. ABB works closely with ferry companies around the world, supplying integrated hybrid and electric propulsion solutions. Recent projects include the Maid of the Mist Niagara Falls tour boats, ‘Fusion Class’ ships for P&O Ferries, a new ferry connecting mainland Iceland and Vestmannaeyjar island, and ferry conversions for Swedish owner ForSea Ferries.
Analyst calls it ‘the best tanker market this century’
The stars are aligning for a tanker supercycle, writes analyst company Shipping Strategy Ltd. Due to weak markets, low returns, changes to regulations and the pandemic, tanker owners have not been ordering many ships for several years. Nor are they likely to do so now with newbuilding prices near historical peaks, regulatory uncertainty growing, and the long-term prospects for oil demand rather downbeat due to the energy transition.
Thus the oil tanker fleet is barely growing even without mandatory scrapping of ships as they reach 25 years of age. Net fleet growth until at least 2026 is virtually zero.
Meanwhile the disruption caused by the war in Ukraine, with Russian oil going east on a so-called dark fleet, threatens to become an indefinite change in trade patterns - one which reduces efficient use of the 'legitimate' fleet of crude oil carrying vessels.
As the global economy comes out of the pandemic and oil demand recovers to numbers closer to their pre-pandemic levels, the amount of oil on the water in Q1 this year exceeds the volume at any time in the previous six years.
Earnings on crude oil tankers are higher than they have been since the 2005-08 boom, concludes Shipping Strategy - and this time there is no wave of newbuilidings coming to undermine the market.
KPI OceanConnect’s innovative ‘get fuelled’ trainee programme creates global pathway to maritime careers for young talent
Leading global marine energy solutions provider KPI OceanConnect launches “get fuelled”, a new two-year global trainee programme – to foster and inspire the next generation of marine fuel traders.
As part of its commitment to enhancing innovation and inclusivity, KPI OceanConnect has recognised the need to provide an attractive career pathway for young people who are eager to contribute to the global energy transition and drive sustainability in one of the world’s most exciting industries.
The programme will provide new hires with an immersive learning experience, including comprehensive training in marine fuel trading, supply and logistics, and the opportunity to work with industry-leading experts. Trainees will have the opportunity to travel and participate in team building activities with the purpose of creating and nurturing relationships with global colleagues.
In addition, trainees will also have the chance to relocate to one of KPI OceanConnect's 16 offices worldwide, where they can learn about different cultures, establish their own network, and work with colleagues from various backgrounds.
Moreover, the programme combines courses at the Danish Maritime Academy in Copenhagen from September 2023, leading to a foundation degree in shipping and the official qualification of Bunker Trader.
Patrick Hoé, Managing Director at KPI OceanConnect, in Middelfart, Denmark and creator of the programme, commented: “We are excited to launch our new trainee programme “get fuelled” to provide young talent with the opportunity to embark on a career in the dynamic and fast-paced world of marine fuel trading. This programme is a testament to KPI OceanConnect’s commitment to investing in the next generation of young professionals and supporting the development of innovative and sustainable solutions for the shipping industry."
“By joining one of the world’s most experienced and established marine energy providers, trainees will be able to work with and learn from some of the best people in the marine fuels industry. “get fuelled” offers opportunities to grow, develop and build an exceptional career, and we welcome applicants from all backgrounds and experience.”
KPI OceanConnect is well positioned to lead the shipping industry through the next era of market transformations by connecting the future of marine energy and bringing positive change to the shipping industry.
Applications for this round of the programme are currently open for young people in Athens, Istanbul, London, Middelfart, New York, and Singapore, and offers will be made in May or June. To apply or learn more, please visit: https://kpioceanconnect.com/get-fuelled/.
Orca AI’s automated situational awareness platform significantly reduces close encounter events
Analysis from Orca AI, creator of the world’s first automated situational awareness platform, has revealed the significant gains delivered by its platform for customers in the last 12 months. These include reducing the number of potential incidents and collisions, as well as increasing operational efficiencies to deliver both fuel cost and CO2 emissions savings.
The analysis was conducted on 110 commercial vessels, spanning tankers, containers, bulkers and Ro-Ro vessels, which were equipped with the Orca AI platform throughout 2022.
Orca AI calculated that during this period, its customers saw a 26.9% reduction in the number of close encounter events, a 21.6% decline in sharp manoeuvres, and an 18% reduction in extreme drops of speed.
According to Orca AI, these improvements in operational efficiency led to a 66,300 tonne reduction in CO2 emissions in total, helping customers to meet their sustainability goals as well as ensuring compliance in line with new CII regulations.
“Orca AI was founded with a fundamental commitment to help create a safer, more efficient and sustainable shipping industry,” said Dor Raviv (pictured), CTO and Co-founder of Orca AI.
“The impressive numbers are a result of our cutting-edge technology, and a close collaboration with our innovative and forward-thinking customers. The learnings from data collected by our platform helped our customers to adjust their companies’ safety policies and navigation-related operations and processes.
“The masters, officers and fleet managers we worked with quickly realised that Orca AI generates a real, tangible impact, and helps to mitigate the associated costs of safety incidents, downtime and reputational damage.”
The safety analysis was conducted on 10 million nautical miles of data collected in open waters by ships using the Orca AI platform. On average, each vessel experienced three close encounter events per 1,000 nautical miles sailed. Each close encounter event was analysed with various KPIs including the closest point of approach, time to closest point of approach, reaction time, average speed over ground, average cross-track error and weather conditions.
LR Approval in Principle for HHI’s new Onboard Guidance System for containerships
Lloyd’s Register has awarded Approval in Principle (AiP) to Hyundai Heavy Industries (HHI) for its new Onboard Guidance System, which is designed to prevent excessive container roll at sea for containerships.
The system, developed through a Joint Development Project with HHI, Eastern Pacific Shipping and Lloyd’s Register, evaluates the stability of the roll motion of the container ship in operation. The solution considers various loading conditions and sea conditions and provides operation guidance on board based on actual operational information in connection with Hyundai Global Service (HGS)’s Integrated Smartship Solution (ISS).
During the approval process, the Onboard Guidance System was tested in September 2022 as part of a pilot on Eastern Pacific Shipping’s 15,100 TEU class containership. LR also suggested rules, requirements, and guidance for the system as part of the AiP.
Nick Gross, Global Containership Segment Director, Lloyd’s Register, said: “Approval in Principle for HHI’s Onboard Guidance System is a meaningful milestone for preventing container roll at sea. Also known as Parametric Rolling Movement (PRM), container roll can cause a ship to dangerously roll at extreme angles, sometimes culminating in a vessel capsizing.
“This software is a crucial tool in preventing PRM and improving safety at sea. Lloyd’s Register is proud to continue our strong relationship with HHI with this approval.”
Seungho Jeon, Chief Technology Officer, Hyundai Heavy Industries, said: “We are pleased to be awarded Approval in Principle from Lloyd’s Register. With the development of the technology, our clients are able to reduce unnecessary cost due to the loss of containers and HHI has come to secure differentiated competitiveness as a shipbuilder that ensures safe operation at sea. It also has a significant meaning in that we have established a foundation for further advancing the system by completing a pilot test on the EPS vessels in operation.”
LR has a long-standing relationship with HD HYUNDAI which recently celebrated its 50th anniversary. The milestone was marked by several projects with HD HYUNDAI including AiP for two container ships equipped with various measures for mitigating container loss at sea, SCA (Software Conformity Assessment) for HHI’s Digital Hi-PIX Digital Twin core technology to predict the structural integrity of an IMO Type B fuel tank along with the announcement of a Joint Development Project (JDP) to promote a new way of working with a ‘Future Shipyard Model’.
Container safety remains a key issue that the maritime industry must come together to address. Fire and cargo loss at sea not only have an immediate impact on the safety of those onboard but also creates the risk of significant environmental damage as well as severe financial loss.
LR recently joined Safetytech Accelerator’s Cargo Fire & Loss Innovation Initiative (CFLII), alongside Evergreen Line, HMM, Maersk, the Offen Group, ONE (Ocean Network Express) and Seaspan. The initiative aims to find and advance technology innovations from across maritime and other industrial sectors to reduce the incidence and impact of cargo fires or cargo loss overboard.
Analyst calls it ‘the best tanker market this century’
The stars are aligning for a tanker supercycle, writes analyst company Shipping Strategy Ltd. Due to weak markets, low returns, changes to regulations and the pandemic, tanker owners have not been ordering many ships for several years. Nor are they likely to do so now with newbuilding prices near historical peaks, regulatory uncertainty growing, and the long-term prospects for oil demand rather downbeat due to the energy transition.
Thus the oil tanker fleet is barely growing even without mandatory scrapping of ships as they reach 25 years of age. Net fleet growth until at least 2026 is virtually zero.
Meanwhile the disruption caused by the war in Ukraine, with Russian oil going east on a so-called dark fleet, threatens to become an indefinite change in trade patterns - one which reduces efficient use of the 'legitimate' fleet of crude oil carrying vessels.
As the global economy comes out of the pandemic and oil demand recovers to numbers closer to their pre-pandemic levels, the amount of oil on the water in Q1 this year exceeds the volume at any time in the previous six years.
Earnings on crude oil tankers are higher than they have been since the 2005-08 boom, concludes Shipping Strategy - and this time there is no wave of newbuilidings coming to undermine the market.
All-in-one maritime industry app marketplace FrontM secures $1.5m investment
FrontM, the Intelligent Collaboration Anywhere®" platform for the maritime industry, has raised $1.5 million in a pre-Series A funding round led by Jenson Funding Partners, Tradeworks.vc, Motion Ventures and a syndicate of MarTech investors.
With the investment, FrontM will accelerate its mission to solve the connectivity and efficiency challenges that maritime businesses and their mobile workforces or customers face when operating in remote and low bandwidth environments
Two million seafarers and up to 50 million remote workers in various ocean industries face day-to-day collaboration barriers, leading to poor crew productivity, engagement and welfare.
FrontM is the maritime superapp platform and app marketplace, optimised for low bandwidth environments, with an exciting array of partner integrations and app rollouts in the pipeline. It operates a multi-sided business model that connects ships and crews with maritime services and solutions providers, using Edge Computing and Al technology to effectively maximise the value of available bandwidth of existing satellite connections.
Ship owners, ship managers, operators and maritime companies can now connect their ship-shore teams by utilising a range of apps in the marketplace for enhanced collaboration and human factor management. Solution Providers can accelerate new solution development, integration and distribution. especially by leveraging FrontM's low-code developer and its unique technology.
Kiran Venkatesh, Co-founder and CEO of FrontM (pictured), said: "Since our Covid-pivot, we evolved our maritime-focused product roadmap and completed a range of initial rollouts. I'm hugely excited to have the backing of eminent maritime investors who share our vision and are equally passionate about digitally empowering people."
Shaun Hon, General Partner at Motion Ventures, Singapore, commented: "We see digitalisation rapidly accelerating across the maritime industry with new waves of solutions being offered. FrontM's super-app helps stakeholders like ship operators and crews use, manage and distribute the increasing number of software applications in this industry onto one platform. Stakeholders now can work more seamlessly through a single platform, enabling more efficient and effective teams."
Niklas Holck, CEO of Tradeworks.vc, Singapore says: "FrontM fits our 'Digital Trade Enabler' investment thesis. Frankly, it's hard to imagine a startup that will do more to digitalise ship operations than FrontM, simply by enabling crews to use the available bandwidth much more effectively. The multi-sided business model benefits from significant network effects, allowing FrontM to scale rapidly and significantly increase the scope of its value proposition over time. We've been following Kiran and his team for more than a year now, and we're really pleased with their pertormance."
Jeffrey Faustin, Partner and CIO of Jenson Funding Partners, UK, adds: "FrontM team's vision and conviction stood out from our first meeting, and their execution has matched that. Their understanding of the communications and efficiency challenges within the maritime industry and the solution that they've built to remedy that is exceptional. The industry is vital to global transport and productivity - and businesses have been in need of a platform that solves these problems. We've supported FrontM from pre-Covid seed stages and are very happy to continue to do so."
Maritime innovation consultancy Thetius estimates the maritime digital industry will be worth $345 billion by 2030. The FrontM platform is well placed to help maritime companies and service providers unlock new possibilities in this rapidly evolving market which also includes new verticals such as the new generation of satellite-loT, direct-to-device and LEO/MEO (Low and Medium Earth Orbit) connected segments.
Ends
Shipping bodies warmly welcome EU decision to recognise training and certification of Filipino seafarers
The European Commission on March 31 announced its decision to continue to recognise the certificates of Filipino seafarers, confirming the compliance of the Philippines with the requirements of the STCW Convention.
Shipping bodies including ECSA (European Community Shipowners’ Associations), ICS (International Chamber of Shipping) and the Cyprus Shipping Chamber (CSC) have warmly welcomed the positive development, pointing out that Filipino seafarers play a central role in global shipping and in keeping trade moving.
The decision follows the response by authorities of the Philippines to a report by the European Maritime Safety Agency (EMSA) that explored the deficiencies in the country’s standards of training and certification.
Filipino seafarers represent 14% of the global workforce in the sector and are instrumental in keeping global shipping running. Industry partners remain committed to work with the industry, seafarers’ representatives and the Filipino authorities to build continuity and sustainability in the Filipino system. For this purpose, ECSA and ICS along with other industry partners and the government of the Philippines have started working together in January under the newly established International Advisory Committee on Global Maritime Affairs (IACGMA).
“European shipowners welcome the recognition of the training and the certification system of the Philippines. We congratulate the country for their commitment and their in-depth response to the shortcomings identified by the Commission.” said ECSA Secretary General Sotiris Raptis.
“This is a positive development as Filipino seafarers play a central role in European shipping and in keeping European trade moving. By engaging with the authorities of the Philippines together with our industry partners, ECSA strives to facilitate a productive dialogue between the country and the EU on matters of key importance such as seafarers’ qualifications, training, and certification.”
Guy Platten, ICS Secretary General added: “As a major seafaring nation, Filipino seafarers are a vital and valued part of the seafarer workforce. This decision made by the European Commission is a testament to the Philippines’ hard work to make sure seafarer training complies with regulations.
“The International Chamber of Shipping (ICS) is delighted to be convening partners to ensure these standards are maintained globally. In January 2023 a new advisory committee was launched to give expert advice on major maritime issues affecting Filipino seafarers, the IACGMA, which is supported by the Philippines government and in collaboration with ECSA and industry partners. By all of us working together on these issues, we can tackle the challenges ahead for our workforce. Maintaining seafarer training standards globally ensures a brighter future for our seafarers."
The CSC noted the contribution of ECSA and ICS in creation of IACGMA, adding that “the European Commission intends to provide, in the following months, the Philippines with technical assistance to further improve its education, training and certification system for seafarers, ensuring standards are maintained as per global regulations.”
UK ports welcome government funding for floating offshore wind infrastructure
On March 30 the UK Department for Transport confirmed launch of the £160m Floating Offshore Wind Manufacturing Investment Scheme (FLOWMIS) to supports the delivery of a national port infrastructure to facilitate floating offshore wind.
British ports have welcomed the funding but stress the need for further sums to help achieve government ambitions for sizable offshore wind targets.
Richard Ballantyne, Chief Executive of British Ports Association, the trade body which represents the ports and harbours sector, including all the UK’s man energy gateways, said: “FLOWMIS is a welcome initiative and we are pleased to see it finally launched. It will certainly help kick-off the work needed to secure some of the UK’s offshore winds targets.
“However, it must be stressed that further phases of funding could be needed in order to achieve our ambitious energy aims. The size of the task ahead is certainly bold but the UK ports industry is raring to go!
“We would therefore suggest that this is the first of several stages of funding the government allocates to help with the ongoing rollout of FLOW projects. Of course, we want to see the developments and jobs based here in the UK and the funding will be important to help secure this activity. Alongside this there also needs to be resource and improvements to the port planning and consenting processes.
“The recent report by the Floating Offshore Wind Taskforce identifies the scale of the task ahead and so we need to convince those across government about what the sector needs and sensible development timescales.''
Norsepower and IINO Lines agree to install Norsepower Rotor Sails on a newbuild VLGC
Global provider of auxiliary wind propulsion systems Norsepower and Japanese shipping company IINO Lines have announced a contract for the delivery and installation of two Norsepower Rotor Sails™ on a newbuild Very Large Gas Carrier (VLGC).
The new vessel – delivered last week from Daewoo Shipbuilding & Marine Engineering Co., Ltd in Korea is ready to be equipped with two bespoke 20m tall Norsepower Rotor Sails™ side by side. The new, specially designed, 20m x 4m units have been developed to accommodate the vessel’s specific air draught limits. The units will be installed on board the vessel in Q2 2024.
The Norsepower Rotor Sail™ is an innovative, modernised version of the Flettner rotor. A small amount of electricity is used to spin the cylinder on the deck. The spinning cylinder and the wind create the Magnus effect to generate thrust supporting the main propulsion which reduces fuel consumption, emissions, and fuel costs.
Following calculations, Norsepower estimates the Rotor Sails will reduce the fuel consumption and CO₂ emissions from the vessel by approximately 4%. The performance of the Norsepower Rotor Sails™ is estimated by methodology verified by ClassNK. The saving will help the vessel meet international emissions reduction targets, including the Carbon Intensity Indicator (CII), and save on rising fuel costs, while also can be future proofing from anticipated carbon pricing.
Hiromi Tosha, President of IINO Lines, commented: “IINO Lines is committed to taking an innovative approach to meeting and exceeding local and international decarbonisation targets. Investing in sustainable vessels is central to our approach and working with Norsepower will enable us to use innovative, and proven technologies which fit in seamlessly with our operations. We appreciate all the concerned parties who made efforts to realise this innovative project. We look forward to the installation of the Rotor Sails to make the vessel greener than ever.”
Tuomas Riski, CEO of Norsepower, added: “With more stringent environmental regulation being enforced, interest in the Norsepower Rotor Sail™ is increasing significantly and our latest agreement shows how action is being taken today across multiple stakeholders including charterers. This is being underpinned by the real-life performance data from the 15 Norsepower Rotor Sails™ which are in action today. The data taken from eight years of operations demonstrates the reduction of fuel costs and emissions that are achieved, which in some cases is over 25%. It is also Norsepower’s third gas carrier installation contract. We are pleased to be helping IINO Lines, among many others, improve their environmental and commercial performance in the run up to 2030 emissions reduction targets as well as being part of the solution to help shipping reach its stretch goal of carbon neutrality.”
The LPG dual fuel ship will be delivered in March 2023 with the Norsepower Rotor Sail™ foundations fitted, and the units will be installed in Q2 2024 after the vessel is in operation.
“K” LINE Chile holds 50th anniversary ceremony
Kawasaki Kisen Kaisha, Ltd. (“K” LINE) is pleased to announce that Group company “K” LINE CHILE has held a ceremony in a hotel in national capital Santiago to mark the 50th anniversary of its establishment. Around 150 people attended the ceremony, including His Excellency the Ambassador of Japan to Chile, Mr Kazuhisa Shibuya, Chilean governmental officials, Chilean marine affairs personnel and local business partners.
“K” LINE first dispatched personnel to Santiago in 1939. This was followed by the establishment of Representaciones Maritimas Kawasaki Chile Ltda. in 1972, or 50 years ago. That company later became “K” LINE CHILE, as it is known today.
In recognition of Chile’s economic development, “K” LINE Group says it has long been making intensive efforts in conventional vessel services on the route off the west coast of South America. Today, in addition to the transport of finished automobiles with car carriers and the dry bulk ship agency business, “K” LINE CHILE operates KAR LOGISTICS all over Chile. This is an all-inclusive automobile logistics service including surface and air forwarding, land transportation, storage, pre-delivery inspection (PDI) and delivery.
Responding to customers’ needs by harnessing “K” LINE CHILE’s 50 years of experience, the “K” LINE Group continues to serve as a logistics company with a focus on marine transportation to link customers’ businesses to the world.
Sembcorp Marine proposes change of name to Seatrium
Sembcorp Marine Ltd (the “Company” or “Sembcorp Marine” and, together with its subsidiaries, the “Group”), is proposing to change its name from “Sembcorp Marine Ltd” to “Seatrium Limited” following completion of the combination of the businesses of the Company and Keppel Offshore & Marine Ltd on 28 February 2023, and will adopt a new branding for the enlarged entity.
The proposed change of name is subject to shareholders’ approval and will not affect the identity of the Company or any of its rights and obligations, nor will it affect any of the rights of shareholders or the Group’s daily business operations and financial standing.
The Process of Name Creation
1. Seatrium is a combination of two words – “sea” and “atrium”. It is a reflection of the business and its aspiration to be a premier global player providing innovative engineering solutions for the offshore, marine and energy industries.
2. To develop the proposed name, more than 1000 names were generated, and a rigorous process of legal and linguistic screening was carried out to ensure that the chosen name would be viable.
The enlarged entity will unite world-class talent and engineering capabilities to create transformative and sustainable offshore and energy solutions.
MF Hydra sails on zero-emission liquid hydrogen
When on March 31 the MF Hydra was put into operation running on zero-emission hydrogen, it was ground-breaking in several ways. In addition to the major technology development, a great deal of work has also been done to develop rules and regulations to enable Norwegian passenger ships to run on hydrogen.
“The Norwegian Public Roads Administration (NPRA) is proud to contribute to making public procurement an instrument in developing and implementing new technology, and thus provide better facilities for road users,” says Anders Sæternes of NPRA Ferry Management.
“We have a tradition of using our role as a major purchaser to accelerate development towards the goals set for the transport sector. It is important for us to use our purchasing power for transition. Zero-emission vessels play an important part in this,” he adds.
“While Norway persists as a leading global actor concerning the green shift within maritime transport – the Norwegian Public Roads Administration leads the nautical way towards a greener future – with our combined efforts in technological advancement and green policy development.
“20 years of green ferry innovation pre-dates our current efforts. In the year 2000, the MF Glutra became the first car ferry to run off liquified natural gas (LNG). The use of LNG leads to reduced greenhouse gas emissions, as compared to traditional diesel operation. Eleven years ago, the NPRA issued a tender which resulted in the MF Ampere, the world's first electrical ferry with propeller drive.
“Therefore, by putting the world's first hydrogen ferry into operation, we now take yet another substantial leap towards the goal of zero emissions – in regards to ferries as well as the general maritime industry – both in Norway and internationally,” Sæternes concludes.
“Today will be a historic day, both for Norled and for Norway as a leading shipping nation,” says Heidi Wolden, CEO of Norled, “as we are witnessing the world's first ship sailing on liquid hydrogen.”
Since the turn of the year, Norled has been carrying out system tests at the quay in Hjelmeland. In recent weeks, it has have been running sea trials and received the final approvals from the Norwegian Maritime Authority (NMA).
“This is fantastic! There are only two parties in the world that use liquid hydrogen as a fuel. These are Norled with the MF Hydra, and then the space industry using it as fuel for launches,” says Erlend Hovland, Chief Technology Officer of Norled.
“This says something about the giant technology leap now taken for the maritime industry. After a lot of development and testing, we are now looking forward to welcoming passengers on board for a zero-emission journey between Hjelmeland and Nesvik.
Norled focuses on innovation and sustainable solutions. In 2015, the company launched the world's first battery-operated, propeller-driven ferry, the MF Ampere. This led to an electric ferry revolution in Norway. Today, the country has around 70 electric ferries in operation.
“It's important for us to be at the forefront when it comes to technology development. Investing in innovation, sustainability, and collaboration to develop new solutions is our way of taking social responsibility,” says Wolden.
The Maritime CleanTech business cluster works closely with the maritime industry and encourages the use of new zero-emission technology.
“MF Hydra confirms Norway's world-leading position in the development of new green maritime solutions,” says Ada Jakobsen, CEO of Maritime CleanTech. “By putting the world's first hydrogen ferry into operation on a Norwegian ferry connection, we are once again showing how purchasing power and good public-private partnerships can be used to develop new and ground-breaking technology.
“This is important if we are to achieve Norwegian and international targets for substantial emission cuts towards 2030 and 2050. When Norled once again dares to go first, it will be much easier for others to follow in the wake of the MF Hydra,
Norled has been the leader of the project to develop the technology needed for the MF Hydra.
“It has been an incredibly exciting, educational, and challenging project. We must commend our competent cooperation partners on this journey, and not least the NPRA. They made liquid hydrogen a requirement in their tender specification, forcing the development of new technology. Together we have made history,” says Hovland.
Linde Engineering in Germany has supplied the hydrogen systems on board. Danish Ballard has developed the fuel cells that produce electricity from hydrogen. Westcon in Ølensvåg has been responsible for equipping and completing the vessel together with system integrator SEAM from Karmøy. Seam has also supplied the automation scope for the hydrogen system.
Corvus Energy has supplied the batteries for the MF Hydra and the vessel has been approved by the Det Norske Veritas (DNV).
Norway’s Director General of Shipping and Navigation, Knut Arild Hareide, says that it is very important for Norway as a maritime nation to have companies which are investing in new green technology, the way Norled has done with this hydrogen project.
“We know that there may be challenges when it comes to putting new technology to use, and it is also good that the Norwegian Maritime Authority has been closely involved in the project from an early stage, like we were when the first battery-operated car ferry was to be put into operation,” says Hareide.
“This is of course a very important project for Norled, but also for Norway as a nation. The fact that we work together, businesses and authorities, to facilitate new technology development will give Norway a competitive advantage and may provide the basis for new jobs, while also making it even more exciting to work in the maritime industry.”
Wärtsilä Technical Management Agreement to provide advanced support for De Beers Marine Namibia vessel
Technology group Wärtsilä has signed a Technical Management Agreement (TMA) with Debmarine Namibia, designed to provide advanced technical support to the latest Debmarine Namibia vessel, the ‘Benguela Gem’. This is the first Lifecycle Agreement signed by Wärtsilä in Southern Africa. The order was entered into Wärtsilä’s order book in December 2022.
The ’MV Benguela Gem’ operates with six Wärtsilä 32 engines. The scope of the three-year TMA includes maintenance support for the engines and digital solutions to optimise the performance and prevent unnecessary downtime. The Dynamic Maintenance Planning solution optimises the time between overhauls and provides flexibility for maintenance scheduling. The Expert Insight, Wärtsilä's unique predictive maintenance solution, secures asset availability by preventing potential problems before they occur. Through constant attention to the operational data from the engines, optimal performance can be achieved.
“We have Wärtsilä engines installed on vessels throughout our fleet, and we are familiar with their quality and reliability. With this Technical Management Agreement, we are strengthening the cooperation between our companies through the supply of additional services, such as Expert Insight. We feel that this will support our operations even further,” says Debmarine Namibia Production Engineer David Shivute.
“We already support six vessels in the Debmarine Namibia fleet, but this agreement for their latest ship takes the support to a new level. This is completely in line with our lifecycle support approach, designed to ensure maximum efficiency and operational uptime for our customers’ vessels,” says Henrik Wilhelms, Director of sales at Wärtsilä.
The Debmarine Namibia fleet of diamond recovery vessels are mainly equipped with Wärtsilä engines. The 177-metre long ‘Benguela Gem’ commenced commercial operations off the Namibian coast in March 2022. It is reported to be the most technically advanced diamond recovery vessel in the world. The Wärtsilä agreement is effective from the beginning of 2023.
SURV11 conference ‘Creating the Future of Sustainable Fast Boats’ to be held in Rotterdam
In June, maritime professionals will gather for the Royal Institution of Naval Architects (RINA) 11th instalment of the Surveillance, Search and Rescue Craft (SURV) Conference. The event, to be hosted in partnership with the Royal National Lifeboat Institution (RNLI) and Damen Shipyards, will take place on 21-22 June 2023 at the Wereldmuseum, Rotterdam, the Netherlands.
SURV is a biennial event that brings together industry experts and professionals. It aims to promote and share technical knowledge on industry best practices. The conference will cover a range of topics, including analyses of designs, applications, and operations of new vessels in this segment, as well as a review of existing vessels and their use across all marine environments.
The conference will feature keynote presentations from leading experts in the field, as well as technical sessions and panel discussions. Attendees will have the opportunity to network with fellow professionals and engage in debate on the latest trends, technologies and challenges facing the industry.
“We are delighted to be back hosting the 11th instalment of the SURV Conference in June 2023”, says RINA Operations Director, Dmitriy Ponkratov. “This conference provides an excellent platform for engineers, operators, naval architects, and other industry professionals to exchange knowledge and ideas, and we look forward to welcoming delegates from around the world.”
RNLI’s Principal Naval Architect Holly Phillips says: ‘’We were honoured to be invited by RINA to partner with them for the SURV11 conference. The RNLI has long supported this series of conferences, not only as delegates who can learn about the new developments in the industry but also from a CPD perspective as the conferences provide an excellent opportunity to present technical papers and network with peers and engineering experts in their field.’’
Wim Boerma, Product Manager High Speed Craft at Damen says: “This event plays a crucial role in bringing together industry experts to share knowledge and ideas for a sector that ensures maritime safety of people all around the world. Our industry is constantly evolving and conferences such as this are a driving force for the innovations that enable us to prepare for the future. Damen is proud to be a supporter of the SURV Conference.”
The SURV11 Conference is open to all interested parties, including members of RINA, other professional institutions and the wider maritime industry. Registration for the event is open, and further details can be found on the RINA website.
Arto Savolainen appointed as general manager at Auramarine Asia
Auramarine announces the appointment of Arto Savolainen (62) as new General Manager of Auramarine Asia Ltd. Effective April 1, he is responsible for overseeing the operations and financial performance of Auramarine Asia.
Mr. Savolainen has extensive experience in several management positions in paper mill projects, and as a consultant in project and site management, contract management, procurement, manufacturing, and quality control. For the past five years he has worked as General Manager at Sammet Dampers (Shanghai) Co. Ltd. Mr. Savolainen has a Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering from Helsinki Technical College, focused on manufacturing technology and has worked in China for almost 30 years.
The company’s previous General Manager of Auramarine Asia, Tomi Julin, will return to Finland, and will start a new position at Auramarine Headquarters as Technical Director in the Engineering and Products department, responsible for engineering and design globally as well as for manufacturing in Asia.
Commenting on the appointment, Auramarine CEO John Bergman says: “We are extremely pleased to welcome Arto Savolainen onboard and we are confident that his excellent experience both from the manufacturing industry and the local operations will be an important asset in leading Auramarine Asia’s growth and development.”
Arto Savolainen comments: “I am proud and happy to undertake this challenge to help Auramarine Asia in its continued development journey in China. And of course, I feel fortunate to start my journey at a newly opened factory."
Thordon opens new market for its ThorPlas-Blue bearings with Wilson vessel retrofit
In what marks a relatively new application for Thordon Bearings’ pioneering polymer material, Wilson Ship Management AS, a Norway-based ship manager, has replaced the greased bronze bearings on the hatch cover wheels of some of its dry cargo vessels with self-lubricating ThorPlas-Blue bearings.
Wilson, which operates Europe’s largest short sea fleet of about 130 general cargo vessels, has now converted eight vessels following the success of the first retrofit three years ago.
Tommy Holmgren, Sales Director, Duwel Group – Thordon Bearings’ authorized distributor in Norway – explained: “Wilson was not aware at first that the Wilson Wisla, which was purchased in 2019, was already operating with Thordon bearings in this application, but when they discovered it was Thordon, they ordered more for other Wilson vessels. To date, we have retrofitted ThorPlas-Blue bearings to the hatch cover wheels on a further seven vessels.”
Retrofits to Wilson Weser took place in 2020 and further installations to Wilson Borg, Wilson Leith (pictured), Wilson Tees, Wilson Alster, Wilson Goole, and Wilson Monsoon all took place in 2022 during scheduled drydockings. “The ship manager is closely monitoring performance but so far, the feedback is very positive. We anticipate increased interest for ThorPlas-Blue in this application,” confirmed Holmgren.
ThorPlas-Blue is commonplace in ships’ deck machinery, such as fairleads, winches, and lifeboat davit bearings, but as the material can withstand much higher pressures, hatch cover bearings are deemed an important and beneficial application.
Typically, a hatch cover’s wheel spindles, cleat spindles, hinge pins, hydraulic cylinder protective sheaths, cleat wedges, drive chain sprockets, toothed rack, and cylinder spherical bearings need to be properly greased at least once a month. This time consuming and messy operation is carried out to ensure hatch covers open and close smoothly and to prevent damage to cargo during loading and unloading. ThorPlas-Blue removes the greasing requirement.
With ocean sustainability and responsible shipping now very much on the regulatory agenda, Thordon Bearings’ environmentally focused products are being specified as part of a tranche of solutions and measures to reduce the environmental impact of operations. This successful application will open significant opportunities for Thordon and its ThorPlas-Blue line of self-lubricating bearings.
ThorPlas-Blue was developed as a maintenance-free solution to replace bronze bearings and to remove the need for grease in ship deck equipment. The elastomeric polymer material is designed to withstand pressures up to 45MPa (6,527 psi), though installation experience suggests the material can withstand much higher loads.
Anthony Hamilton, Thordon Bearings’ Technical Director, said: “By replacing traditional greased bronze bearings with ThorPlas-Blue, ship operators and managers benefit both environmentally and commercially. There is a zero-grease requirement and wear rates improve dramatically. The self-lubricating properties of the Thordon material mitigates against the risk of hatch cover failure due to bearing seizure, so you do see reduced repair and maintenance costs.”
Elcome awarded contract to supply next generation VTMIS to AD Ports Group
Leading maritime systems integrator Elcome International is to supply and install Saab’s next generation Vessel Traffic Management Information System (VTMIS) to ports and terminals operated by AD Ports Group.
Saab’s state-of-the-art MaritimeControl VTMIS (pictured) will be installed at Khalifa Port, Zayed Port & Free Port, Musaffah Port and Al Dhafra region ports as part of a wide-ranging project to provide remote, local, and centralised monitoring and control of vessel movements in and around the Emirate.
Under the agreement, Elcome will install and integrate advanced sensors and related infrastructure across multiple locations in a scope of supply that includes a fully redundant VTMIS integrated with port RADARS, CCTVs, radios, weather stations, radio direction finders and towers.
Elcome will also design and install control centres equipped with ‘video walls’, operator consoles and displays to present a comprehensive view of all tracked vessels within the VTMIS area.
Jimmy Grewal, Elcome’s Executive Director, said: “From the centre in Khalifa Port, vessel traffic management will be able to safely guide shipping as far away as Sila, 300km west down the coast of the United Arab Emirates near the border with Saudi-Arabia.”
“As we expand our port infrastructure to meet increased trade in and out of the UAE and grow our own fleet of vessels and trade routes, this state-of-the-art VTMIS will play a vitally important role in ensuring safe, secure and effective maritime operations 24/7.”
“MaritimeControl is an essential tool in maximising the continuity of vessel traffic in all visibility and weather conditions. The Saab solution greatly improves navigational safety and the management of waterways by monitoring for and alerting operators to a wide range of hazards and conditions. Marine pilots in the area will be able to see the vessel traffic live on their Portable Pilot Units.”
“The system also has a multi-centre design with a backup site and the possibility of local operation at Zayed Port, Musaffah Port and Al Futaisi island. This ensures high availability so that shipping can continue under all circumstances,” said Grewal.
Tomas Hjelmberg, Head of Maritime Traffic Management at Saab, said: “We are delighted that AD Ports Group has become the latest end-user of our new VTMIS technology. This agreement solidifies Saab’s presence in the United Arab Emirates.”
In December 2022, AD Ports Group announced a AED4 billion investment into the expansion of Abu Dhabi’s Khalifa Port as part of a wider strategy to strengthen the Emirate’s position in global trade, and develop and diversify the national economy. By 2030, Khalifa Port is expected to see an annual throughput of 15M TEU and 25 million tonnes of general cargo.
Survitec Marine Evacuation Systems selected for Stena E-flexer ropax ferries
Eleven Stena RoRo LNG-fuelled E-Flexer ferries scheduled for charter to European and Canadian operators will each feature advanced Marine Evacuation Systems (MES) supplied by global Survival Technology solutions provider Survitec.
Survitec has already delivered three shipsets of the evacuation systems, with MES successfully installed and commissioned aboard two extended 240m long, 1200 passenger capacity E-Flexers Stena Estelle and Stena Ebba. Stena Ebba began operations on Stena Line’s Sweden-Poland route in January 2023.
Survitec is supplying advanced MES solutions to E-Flexers ordered to sail under Stena Line (5), Brittany Ferries (5), and Marine Atlantic (1).
Jonas Tullock, Project Manager Newbuilding, Stena RoRo said: “The safety of passengers and crew takes the highest priority at Stena. System reliability, compatibility, performance and comfort were key factors in selecting Survitec to supply MES and the ability to meet the vessel’s operational needs.”
Richard McCormick, AES and MES Product Manager, Survitec, said: “We are delighted that Survitec is a major provider of critical safety and survival equipment to Stena RoRo’s E-Flexer programme. These ferries are some of the most sophisticated, energy-efficient ropaxes to operate in European and North American waters. As a passenger shipowner setting the standards for safety and innovation Stena RoRo has specified Survitec MES.”
In addition to the E-flexers, Survitec is supplying MES to a trio of LNG-fuelled ropax newbuilds for a Polish operator. The contract for each of the 196m long, 400-passenger-capacity dual-fuelled ferries will also include the services of Survitec technicians to supervise the installation and oversee system commissioning and acceptance testing.
Jan Eskil Hollen, Managing Director, Survitec North Europe, said: “These are significant orders for Survitec and testimony to the reputation, performance and quality of Survitec marine evacuation systems across the industry.”
Each Survitec MES system is bespoke to suit individual vessel requirements. Considerations include flag and class requirements, vessel area of operation, vessel layout, evacuation height and the number of passengers.
PSA Cargo Solutions and BDP International form new brand to deliver enhanced end-to-end supply chain solutions
PSA International Pte Ltd (PSA) and BDP International, Inc. (BDP) jointly announced today that PSA Cargo Solutions (Cargo Solutions), a business unit of PSA, will combine with BDP to form a new brand: PSA BDP. This announcement follows PSA’s successful acquisition of BDP in April 2022. The new PSA BDP brand blends complementary strengths and capabilities of both companies to enhance service and solution offerings across the entire supply chain.
Backed by the strength of PSA’s global network of more than 60 deepsea, rail and inland terminals, and BDP’s strength as a global logistics solution provider and supply chain enabler, PSA BDP will leverage strategic hub ports and an expansive global asset portfolio to provide greater agility and optionality to shippers in a complex global environment. PSA BDP will enhance the delivery of innovative and sustainable solutions supported by industry-leading digitalisation and data capabilities to empower connectivity across supply chain ecosystems.
Since the acquisition, Cargo Solutions and BDP have worked closely to deliver a complete end-to-end supply chain orchestration model to customers across key industry verticals that includes expanded terminal value-added services, mid-mile logistics, digital applications to streamline compliance processes, and multimodal transportation solutions that focus on reducing carbon emissions.
Earlier, the PSA Group was reorganised to grow as two classes of business – Ports and Cargo Solutions. The new PSA BDP brand will represent the PSA Group’s Cargo Solutions class of business, with a combined team providing a full suite of supply chain solutions to meet the changing and multifaceted needs of cargo owners.
“The launch of PSA BDP marks an important milestone in our ongoing transformation journey and symbolises our determination to further expand our global network and service offerings to our supply chain customers and stakeholders around the world,” said Mr Tan Chong Meng, Group CEO, PSA International.
“The reorganisation of the Group into the two main classes of business reinforces our continued commitment to grow our port business whilst sharpening our ability to innovate and deliver future solutions in the complementary cargo solutions space. We believe that this synthesis of capabilities, talents and assets will create exciting opportunities – with the sum being greater than the individual parts in this respect,”
PSA BDP is spearheaded by Mr Mike Andaloro who will serve as its CEO and concurrently lead PSA BDP’s Sales and Operations. He will be supported by Ms Ghim Siew Ho as CEO Products who will lead the development and delivery of physical and digital products and solutions, and Mr Vincent Ng, CEO Enterprise Growth / CFO, who will focus on positioning the enterprise for growth through strategy and business development, while driving sustainability and process excellence.
“PSA’s acquisition of BDP has strengthened our combined enterprise and will bring new service capabilities to our current and future customers,” noted Mike Andaloro, CEO of PSA BDP.
“The new brand – PSA BDP – epitomizes the combination of capabilities in ports, terminals, rail and asset light solutions, while further expanding the geographic coverage and digital capabilities of the combined enterprise. Our customers will be significant beneficiaries through access to an expanded portfolio of products and solutions.”
PSA BDP customers will benefit from an extensive service offering which includes new Port+ & Connectivity solutions and an expanded suite of digital product solutions that yield increased operational resilience, agility, and speed to market opportunities. New services that the PSA BDP enterprise will bring to the market include:
· Forward Hubbing
· Multimodal Logistics
· Terminal Value-Added Services
· Contract Logistics
· Import/Export Customs Services
· Supply Chain Orchestration
· Transportation Solutions (all modes)
· Trade Management
The PSA BDP organisation will span 137 offices across the globe and continue serving customers within the verticals of chemical, retail & consumer, life sciences & pharmaceuticals, and electric vehicle & industrial.
Maritime HR consultant Spinnaker releases its latest Gender Pay Gap analysis
UK organisations with over 250 employees are required to calculate and publish their gender pay gap on a specific date each year (‘the snapshot day’) which is the 5th of April, according to maritime HR experts Spinnaker.
Spinnaker also acts as secretariat to the Maritime HR Association, a members club made up of 95 shipowners, shipmanagers, oil majors and commodity groups. Members of the Association benefit from annual salary and bonus benchmarking reports for global shipping.
The Association began collecting gender data as part of the annual salary survey process back in 2016 to gain an understanding of the gender pay gap within the maritime industry. This work has now become the authoritative source of gender diversity data within the sector.
“The Maritime industry is a long way off closing the gender pay gap,” says Spinnaker Chairman Phil Parry (pictured). “The incremental movements we are seeing probably reflect the growing proportion of women in better paid roles, thus slowly pulling up the averages."
Gender pay analysis differs from equal pay. Equal pay considers the pay difference between men and women who carry out the same or similar jobs or conduct work of equal value; it is unlawful in the UK and most other developed economies to pay a man or a woman differently to do exactly the same job. The gender pay gap (or gender wage gap) is the average difference between the remuneration for men and women who are working within a given group.
The 2022 pay information from the Spinnaker survey comprises data for over 3,800 UK shore-based positions. Interestingly, according to our statistics, the proportion of women employed within the UK maritime industry has shown a slight increase in 2022 after its decline over the past two years, having been steadily rising year on year prior to this.
Spinnaker says that its maritime data shows that the UK tends to employ an equal proportion of men and women. Although women in the UK are most likely to work in Customer Service, Business Development and Finance roles while men in the UK are more likely to work in Technical & Marine, IT and Operations positions.
Its findings from the 2022 salary survey data show that the average (or mean) pay gap is 39.13% in maritime compared to a UK average of 13.9% for all industries. This is a very slight improvement on the 2021 figure which was 40%, compared to a UK average of 14.9%. For reference in 2020 the gap was 42.8%.
Companies must report the proportion of male and female staff within each pay quartile. These four pay quartiles are referred to as the Lower Quartile, Lower Middle Quartile, Upper Middle Quartile and Upper Quartile.
In its survey Spinnaker found that 73% of participants at the Lower Quartile were female compared to just 22.8% at the Upper Quartile.
But considering the proportion of females across the pay quartiles since 2017, Spinnaker does note a gradual increase in the proportion of women employed across all pay quartiles.
With regards to comparative C-Suite data, in 2022 Spinnaker found that women represented 15% of C- suite positions compared to 11% in 2022.
Spinnaker’s Maritime HR Association is currently collecting data for the 2023 salary survey. For more information on how to take part please contact a member of the team mhra@spinnaker-global.com .
Seven candidates in running for next Secretary-General of IMO
Seven IMO Member States have each nominated a candidate for the post of Secretary-General of the International Maritime Organization (IMO). The term of the current incumbent, Mr. Kitack Lim of the Republic of Korea, expires on 31 December 2023.
Seven IMO Member States have each nominated a candidate for the post of Secretary-General of the International Maritime Organization (IMO). The term of the current incumbent, Mr. Kitack Lim of the Republic of Korea, expires on 31 December 2023.
The nominations received by the deadline set for receipt of nominations of 31 March 2023 are listed below in alphabetical order by candidates' name.
• Mr. Moin Uddin Ahmed (Bangladesh)
• Mr. Suat Hayri Aka (Türkiye)
• Mr. Arsenio Antonio Dominguez Velasco (Panama)
• Dr. Cleopatra Doumbia-Henry (Dominica)
• Mrs. Nancy Karigithu (Kenya)
• Ms. Minna Kivimäki (Finland)
• Mr. Zhang Xiaojie (China)
The IMO Council at its 128th session (December 2022) approved the procedures for holding the election of the Secretary-General at the July 2023 session of the Council (C 129).
The election will take place at IMO Headquarters on Tuesday 18 July.
Following the election in July 2023, the decision of the Council will be submitted to the 33rd session of the Assembly of IMO in late 2023. The Assembly will be invited to approve the appointment.
The elected Secretary-General will take office on January 1st, 2024.
Swedish Club boosts management team
The Swedish Club is looking to the future with the expansion and restructuring of the Club’s management team. In a move designed to reflect today’s complex business landscape it has announced three new roles which will position the Club to anticipate and meet the changing demands of its members and business partners. This follows the strengthening of the Club’s regional presence with two new high-profile appointments in Hong Kong and London announced last month.
Thorbjörn Emanuelsson has been appointed Director, Underwriting; Johan Kahlmeter will step into the position of Director, Claims; and Magnus Axelsson has been appointed Director IT and Digital Transformation.
Thomas Nordberg, Managing Director of The Swedish Club, (pictured) says: “I am delighted to welcome these three new appointees to exciting new roles in the Club’s management team. When I joined the Club, I was always clear that one of the first steps would be to ensure that the management team has the optimum functionality and the perfect task and responsibility allocation.
"We are placing two of our most experienced people in those strategically significant areas, Hong Kong and London. All our offices need to be as efficient as possible, with proper licences in all areas as we advance, and balance retaining ‘The Swedish Club’ brand and being part of the local business community.
“It is essential to adjust to developments in the industry,” he adds. “We have to be able to predict and be prepared to boost resources to meet demands. Our business is becoming increasingly complex, and our members need more specialisation in many areas. This means finding ways to organise the Club to promote in-depth competence is crucial.”
Thorbjörn Emanuelsson, the new Director, Underwriting, joins The Swedish Club from Gard, where he held the role of Vice President in the Hong Kong Operation. He has a solid background in marine insurance and in-depth underwriting knowledge.
Johan Kahlmeter, new Director, Claims, has been with The Swedish Club for 16 years and began his career as a trainee in the Gothenburg office. He has a specialised knowledge in the field of claims, and is currently Area Manager with Team Sweden.
Magnus Axelsson, new Director IT and Digital Transformation, knows the Club well, having spent 23 years developing IT projects for the Club. This new role recognises the digital transformation taking place in the industry, and the importance of the IT function in all the Club’s decision-making processes.
The first step in this restructuring recognised the importance of the Club’s Teams, with the appointment of Lars A. Malm, formerly Director Strategic Business Development and Client Relations, to the role of Managing Director and Area Manager, Team Hong Kong, and Tord Nilsson, formerly Director, Underwriting, Reinsurance and Risk Control to head Team UK in London.
Astaara expands underwriting capacity, boosting cyber insurance limit to $25 million
Astaara, the Guernsey-based integrated insurance services and risk management advisory business, has increased its underwriting capacity and insurance limit from US$12.5 million in 2020 to US$25 million with effect from 1st April.
Astaara’s cyber insurance covers ports and terminals, as well as ships, shipowners and ship managers. The insurance is led by A-rated cyber insurance industry leader Axis Specialty Europe SE, with Astaara backed by significant investment from the West of England P&I Club. The commercial weight behind Astaara is recognition of the trust and confidence in its cyber security offering.
Astaara’s unique, comprehensive solution spans risk management services, underwriting services, and a dedicated analytics capability. The integrated nature of the company’s offering, as well as its structured and pragmatic approach, means cyber risks can continue to be effectively identified, managed and mitigated, even in an increasingly hostile cyber environment.
Recent estimates show that over half of maritime sector cyber-attacks have been terror-related and would be excluded from traditional cyber insurance. Astaara does not exclude cyber-attacks that are deemed terrorism in its cover, and considers this as one driver of its growth and customer loyalty. This gives insureds certainty, which is often the missing factor in cyber offerings. The assessments undertaken by Astaara also help provide evidence of cyber sea worthiness and adherence to other applicable industry or regulatory standards.
Robert Dorey (pictured), Group CEO of Astaara, elaborated: “We are able to provide such broad and dependable cover because we work closely with our clients to ensure each has a high level of cyber security maturity. If prospective clients fall short of the required level, our team will support them in reaching it. Our cyber risk consultants from government, Royal Navy and technical backgrounds are also in regular contact with retained clients to ensure their cyber maturity continues to develop during the policy period on a quarterly basis.
“With proper risk assessment and due diligence in line with the five pillars of cyber security, claims are less frequent and less severe. Our customers trust our cover because of this high-quality risk selection and the overall quality of our underwriting.”
Tom Bowsher, CEO of West of England P&I Club, added: “To best manage and minimise systemic risk in shipping, each individual risk, such as cyber risk, must be properly underwritten. We support Astaara’s solution because it aligns the service that insureds need with genuine experience, expertise and commitment. The combination of over 75 years of underwriting experience in the leadership team and market-leading specialist marine cyber knowledge is a leading one.”
Robert Dorey concluded: “We are grateful for the backing of West and for the loyalty of the Club’s Members to its joint ventures. With the recent increase in our cyber insurance limit based on clients’ feedback, we have taken another step towards repaying that trust; we are pleased to be operating in the marine cyber insurance heavyweight category now.”
The recent news about Astaara’s expanded underwriting capacity and increased cyber insurance limit comes after it announced a significant investment from the West of England P&I Club in 2020.
LR and ICS enter partnership to invest in crew insight software
Lloyd’s Register has acquired a 50% interest in ISF Watchkeeper, the leading work and rest hours compliance software solution from IT Energy Systems and Consulting Limited.
The acquisition will result in LR becoming a joint owner of ISF Watchkeeper with the International Chamber of Shipping (ICS). The partnership that will combine the pair’s formidable compliance and industry expertise to improve crew and environmental safety standards in the maritime industry.
ISF Watchkeeper is a suite of digital solutions that helps global ship operators to plan, manage and report their crew’s rest hours compliance in accordance with International Convention on Standards of Training, Certification and Watchkeeping for Seafarers (STCW) and the Maritime Labour Convention (MLC).
ISF Watchkeeper was originally developed by ICS and IT Energy and has become the industry leading standard software for helping shipping companies comply with seafarers’ work and rest hours.
The software is used by more than 180,000 seafarers for calculating seafarers’ rest hours and planning work schedules. It is available through web, mobile, desktop and API. Customer data is securely synchronised and benchmarked against industry average non-conformance measurements for work and rest hours.
ISF Watchkeeper has recently developed a Benchmarking solution that allows shore-based teams to assess fleet compliance geographically, enabling comparison against wider industry averages.
Martin Taylor (pictured), LR Digital Solutions CEO said: “The addition of ISF Watchkeeper to the LR Digital Solutions business adds further to our existing complement of digital voyage solutions. ISF Watchkeeper has the only comprehensive database of crew working practices and through this we will be able to provide detailed insights to help improve seafarer safety and efficiency at sea. The ISF Watchkeeper functionality will sit alongside the OneOcean platform and other LR solutions that are now present on half of the world’s SOLAS fleet.”
Elliott Adams, Chief Finance and Commercial Officer at the International Chamber of Shipping said: “ISF Watchkeeper is a vital piece of software for shipowners, ship managers and seafarers. Being able to benefit from Lloyds Register’s network and complementary tools provides significant benefits for the industry as we look to expand and further enhance the ISF Watchkeeper suite of software solutions.”
Laskaridis to become first Greek ship owner to implement ShipIn Systems’ FleetVision
Athens-based Laskaridis Shipping Company has started a project with maritime technology company ShipIn Systems to roll out ShipIn’s FleetVision™ Platform across its fleet in the coming months.
The innovative visual analytics solution provides a digital bridge between ship and shore, enabling real-time collaboration between ship owners, managers, and crew onboard to enhance vessel safety and productivity.
Laskaridis Shipping controls a fleet of 90 vessels. The team will install ShipIn’s fleet of AI-powered CCTV cameras onboard to detect discrete events like maintenance, navigation, and cargo operations. The platform will automatically alert the Laskaridis team both onboard and onshore to any safety or security risks, creating a digital source of truth that rolls up to powerful, fleet-wide analytics.
“We’re proud to be the very first ship management company in Greece to implement this innovative technology solution,” said Laskaridis Shipping COO Georgios Christopoulos. “The FleetVision™ system will become an important part of our digitalisation strategy and will help us better pursue our policy towards operational excellence.”
A long-time innovator in the maritime industry, Laskaridis Shipping will now have access to onboard operational data in near real-time. ShipIn enables collaboration between captains and crew onboard vessels and operations ashore through a patented communication protocol that minimizes required data bandwidth.
“FleetVision is able to detect near-miss incidents in real-time before they bring accidents. This is expected to improve safety performance and awareness,” said Catherine Prifti, DPA-HSQE Director of Laskaridis Shipping.
FleetVision™ provides visibility to low-traffic areas onboard, enabling early hazard detection, protection from external damages like drug smuggling and stevedore damages, and more. With all ship activities rolling up to an analytics dashboard, it makes it easy to benchmark performance, perform remote audits, and improve the operational ROI of the entire fleet.
“We’re honored to work with Laskaridis Shipping, a prominent owner and manager, and look forward to providing the full benefits of FleetVision™ across their fleet,” said Osher Perry, CEO and Co-Founder of ShipIn Systems.
Posidonia Sea Tourism Forum to examine trends on economic impact of cruise industry
As the international cruise industry prepares for the Posidonia Sea Tourism Forum, Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA) predicts that the sector will attract up to 33 million passengers in 2023, significantly exceeding the 29.7 million recorded in 2019, the last year before the pandemic.
According to recently released CLIA data, Greece, which is at the forefront of European cruising, is poised to enjoy an increase in economic impact from the industry, with Piraeus, the country’s leading seaport, forecast to exceed one million passengers in 2023. In 2021, Greece achieved an unprecedented economic impact of €1.1 billion from cruise activities, compared to €957 million in 2019.
The sector supported 315,000 jobs in Europe, with 15,100 of those jobs based in Greece. Greece led the world with a swift and safe resumption of cruising during the pandemic and saw a significant increase in homeporting, leading to cruise lines purchasing goods and services from port suppliers. Also, passengers spent longer periods in port cities and overnight stays in local hotels, contributing to the increase of the economic impact due to longer stays of ships in port to carry out technical work.
Theodore Vokos, Managing Director of Posidonia Exhibitions SA, said that the Forum taking place outside Athens is an exciting development that will potentially further enhance cruising in Greece: "The Posidonia Sea Tourism Forum provides a unique opportunity for industry leaders to come together in Greece’s second biggest city and discover the potential of new destinations.
“With new cruise terminals set to be built in Souda-Chania after 2024, the planned expansion of the Piraeus cruise terminal, and Thessaloniki’s growing potential as an additional cruise hub, the industry's growth is set to continue in Greece for the years to come."
The value of cruise tourism cannot be overstated, with every 24 cruise guests equating to one full-time job and each guest spending on average €660 in port cities during a typical seven-day cruise. Furthermore, 60% of people that have taken a cruise have since returned to a destination they first visited on a cruise ship, hence each cruise is basically a self-funded fam trip. The CLIA Global Market Report 2020 shows that 85% of millennials plan to cruise again, followed by Gen-X (82%), Gen-Z (79%), Baby Boomers (77%), and Traditionalists (73%).
The Posidonia Sea Tourism Forum will be held in Thessaloniki (pictured), Greece, on 25-26 April 2023 and will focus on "The Return to Growth: Challenges ahead for Cruise Lines and Destinations". It promises to be a hub for discussions about the future of the cruise industry and its continued positive impact on the economy.
The PSTF 2023 will also be the platform for the first presentation of a socio-economic impact study produced by Thessaloniki Port Authority and Thessaloniki Tourism Organisation, that will contribute to a better understanding of the benefits of cruising for the local community.
The benefits the cruise industry generates for both destinations and ports are frequently quoted, but the actual economic impact is rarely measured and seldomly reported. Participants at the PSTF 2023 will have a unique opportunity to learn all they need to know about actual passengers' and crew spending levels, their preferred spending patterns, the levels of satisfaction from their visit, as well as the potential of their return to the city.
The presentation will showcase the socio-economic contribution of cruise in the port and city of Thessaloniki and preliminary data already provides useful insight into the spending patterns of cruise passengers and crew members in Thessaloniki. Hence cruise passengers direct their spending towards shopping (44%), restaurants & cafeterias (40%), sightseeing (12%) and food stores (3%). Crew members on the other hand direct their spending towards shopping (55%), restaurants & cafeterias (16%), transportation (14%) and food stores (10%).
Theodora Riga, Chief Commercial Officer & Director of Strategic Communications, ThPA SA - Port of Thessaloniki, commented: “We are financing this study together with the Thessaloniki Tourism Organisation to better understand how the cruise industry benefits our city and how we can further enhance both passenger experience during their stay and the benefits for the local, regional and national economy. Once we better understand passenger expectations as a destination, we will be better able to provide cruise passengers a unique experience. This will serve as our stepping stone to attract more cruise lines to Thessaloniki in the coming years.”
The 2023 PSTF is sponsored by Diamond Sponsor Thessaloniki Port Authority SA, Gold Sponsor Region of Central Macedonia, Silver Sponsor Piraeus Port Authority SA, Bronze Sponsors Celestyal Cruises, Global Ports Holding, Greek National Tourism Organisation, Heraklion Port Authority SA, Kyvernitis Travel and Thessaloniki Tourism Organisation. The official airline is SKY express. PSTF 2023 is supported by AVIS, Global Air Compass and Agora Modiano. The Forum is organised under the auspices of the Ministry of Maritime Affairs & Insular Policy and the Ministry of Tourism and supported by the Hellenic Chamber of Shipping, the Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA), the Association of Mediterranean Cruise Ports (MedCruise) and the Union of Cruise Ship Owners & Associated Members.
Vitol’s V-Bunkers unveils first electric-hybrid bunker tanker in Singapore
Vitol’s Singaporean bunker operations company, V-Bunkers, has announced that it will be taking delivery of its first electric-hybrid bunker tanker, MARINE CHARGE. Classed by Bureau Veritas (BV), the electric-hybrid bunker tanker features advanced energy storage and charging technologies that will help curb greenhouse gas emissions (GHG) from port operations in Singapore.
V-Bunkers placed an order to build two of these cutting-edge vessels in 2021, with the second tanker, MARINE DYNAMO, scheduled for delivery in Q2 2023. These electric-hybrid bunker tankers are designed to significantly reduce carbon emissions in port locations and will be deployed for harbour operations within Singapore.
The vessels have been built by Zhejiang Shenzhou Sunshine Heavy Industry Co., Ltd. and were designed by a Singapore-based designer. The BV-classed bunker tankers are built with BV’s Electric-Hybrid notation and feature state-of-the-art Energy Storage Systems (ESS) technology, comprising Lithium-ion batteries and a highly automated Power Management System (PMS), to achieve an estimated 10% reduction in GHG emissions.
The design configuration enables the auxiliary engines to operate at the most optimal specific fuel oil consumption (SFOC), while the ESS performs peak shaving during low power consumption periods for usage of stored energy during high consumption periods. The ESS has recharging capabilities, and while onshore power supply is currently unavailable, the bunker tankers are ready for when charging infrastructure and facilities become available in Singapore.
BV’s ‘Electric-Hybrid’ notation addresses the complexity of electric hybrid system implementation, defining requirements for storage, power distribution, control, and instrumentation, as well as tests that must be carried out to validate power management and critical safety considerations, such as thermal runaway. Bureau Veritas is continuously working towards the development of a standardised safety framework for on-board batteries, which is crucial as the industry explores various options to achieve carbon-neutral shipping.
David Barrow, Vice-President South Asia and Pacific, Bureau Veritas Marine & Offshore, commented: "Bureau Veritas is committed to supporting the safe development and deployment of batteries within the maritime sector, and it is heartening to see the industry embrace sustainable solutions to reduce carbon emissions and improve energy efficiency. V-Bunkers' electric-hybrid bunker tankers are a positive step towards building a greener and more sustainable future for Singapore's port operations."
The launch of these electric-hybrid bunker tankers is a significant milestone for V-Bunkers and demonstrates the company's commitment to sustainable shipping practices. By deploying these vessels in Singapore's port, V-Bunkers aims to reduce carbon emissions and pave the way for a more sustainable future in the maritime industry.
Mike Muller, Head of Vitol Asia, said: “We are delighted to be the first to bring ESS technology to the local bunker craft sector and thus contribute to the reduction of emissions in the port of Singapore, the world’s largest bunkering port. We shall continue to support Singapore’s aspirations, led by the Maritime Port Authority of Singapore, to be a leader in maritime decarbonisation. We consider deployment of these two electric-hybrid bunker tankers to be an important step forward in Singapore’s decarbonisation journey.”
Maersk launches new US-China air cargo link
In an effort to meet its customers’ end-to-end logistics needs, A.P. Moller - Maersk (Maersk) introduces two new air freight services with regular flights linking the US with China. Maersk´s new customer-backed air corridor is expected to plug a connectivity gap between the world’s two largest markets for ocean customers, with solutions for time sensitive and high value cargo via new air services.
“With the introduction of these new routes, we are further connecting North America and Asia Pacific through regular flights and controlled capacity for our customers,” says Michel Pozas Lucic, Global Head of Air in A.P. Moller – Maersk. “At Maersk, we want to ensure that our customers have the visibility, reliability, and resilience in their supply chains. Air freight continues to be an important asset in our customer´s end-to-end logistics needs.”
Maersk will commence with two weekly flights between Greenville-Spartanburg International Airport (GSP) and Shenyang Taoxian International Airport (SHE) and with two weekly flights between Chicago Rockford International Airport (RFD) and Hangzhou Xiaoshan International Airport (HGH). Both services will be increased to three weekly flights from May 2023.
Maersk recently opened a new Chicago air freight gateway facility to add more supply chain integration opportunities for customers using Chicago O’Hare International and Rockford International.
The operation will be done with three newly acquired Boeing 767-300 freighters that have recently been added to the fleet of Maersk Air Cargo, the inhouse cargo airline of Maersk, and will be operated by Miami-headquartered cargo airline, Amerijet International.
On March 20, Maersk celebrated the inaugural flight of the logistics company´s new air freight service with three weekly scheduled flights between Billund (BLL) and Hangzhou (HGH) operated by Maersk Air Cargo.
Maersk also recently launched a new air freight service with regular flights between Greenville-Spartanburg, South Carolina (GSP) and Incheon, Korea (ICN) operated by Miami-headquartered cargo airline Amerijet International.
IRI senior leadership visits and thanks the Korean maritime community
Senior leaders from International Registries, Inc. and its affiliates (IRI) visited with the Korean maritime community this week, underscoring their continued commitment to the local maritime market. IRI President, Bill Gallagher and Chief Commercial Officer, Theo Xenakoudis joined Annie Ng, Head of Asia in Seoul this week to meet with Korean ship owners, operators, and moreover shipyards in Busan.
IRI, which provides administrative and technical support to the Republic of the Marshall Islands (RMI) Maritime Registry, established the first local representation of a foreign flag State in Korea more than 15 years ago. Today, the Registry supports the Korean maritime community from full-service flag State offices in Seoul and Busan.
“We have strong relationships with Korea’s maritime community thanks to our long-term commitment to providing local support and representation,” said Mr. Gallagher.
“Captain Young Kim has been a key figure in our success. He has built a highly experienced, capable, and client-focused team, which has strengthened our position in the market. This success allowed us to expand representation to Busan and bring on additional technical resources.”
IRI’s commitment to serving the market through local representation resulted in the registration of 500 Korean owned vessels over the last 15 years.
"Our team in Korea offers a deep understanding of the Korean market coupled with insight into the global market trends,” noted Captain Young Kim, Representative in IRI’s Seoul office. “IRI has invested in building strong, expert teams around the world to help our clients with the transition to a sustainable future, and Korea is no exception. In fact, we have developed a combination of strong commercial and technical expertise in this market with our two offices,” he continued.
Additional in-country technical and inspection capabilities were added in 2017 with the opening of a Busan office, under the leadership of Tom Blenk. Today, the Seoul and Busan offices not only support vessel registration and technical support but are also involved in inspections and regional joint development projects (JDPs) related to decarbonization.
“These projects allow us to learn from the ground up as solutions are being evaluated, tested, and developed,” noted Annie Ng. “We can then offer assistance and knowledgeable guidance to owners/operators as they look for the right solutions,” she continued.
“Flag States need to work closely with their owners/operators to meet the 2050 greenhouse gas targets set by International Maritime Organization (IMO),” noted Mr. Xenakoudis. “With a permanent representative and active delegation at the IMO, the RMI Registry gives owners and operators a voice at committee, sub-committee, and working group meetings where regulatory standards are developed, evaluated, and decided.”
IRI’s focus on client services, and local representation and knowledge of the Korean market, has led to substantial growth in the market, with RMI taking a leading role in building relationships and partnerships with local stakeholders, authorities, and clients.
“We will continue to expand and grow to support our owners and operators here in Korea,” said Mr. Gallagher. “For our Korean owners, we pride ourselves in being able to provide support in local time and in the local language, while also providing a global view,” he concluded.
KR-CON v.21 solution released for accessing latest IMO regulations
Korean Register (KR) has released the latest updated version of KR-CON (v.21), its comprehensive digital database of almost all the International Maritime Organization’s (IMO) instruments.
With continued success since its launch in 2000, KR-CON has been regularly updated to ensure that the database program contains the latest IMO instruments. Users can easily access the IMO documents in the program, and quickly find relevant regulations for a specific vessel. This is one of the reasons why the program has been particularly valued and widely used by flag administrations and maritime companies worldwide.
In the 21st version of KR-CON, the user interface (UI) design of the mobile application and the icon design of the KR-CON website have changed to improve customers’ understanding of the functions in the program.
Additionally, a new function has been added that allows the user to easily locate previously downloaded PDF files by maintaining a download history within the mobile application.
LEE Jungkun, the General Manager of KR's Convention and Legislation Service Team said,
“We have reorganized the UI of the 21st version of KR-CON to make the user environment more intuitive and improve user convenience. We will continuously work to advance the program to meet customers’ needs and requirements, and make it even more user-friendly.”
The new KR-CON includes the contents of the 32nd Assembly of the IMO held in 2021 and 2022, as well as the amendments of SOLAS and MARPOL adopted by the 106th Maritime Safety Committee (MSC) and the 78th Marine Environment Protection Committee (MEPC). The database will be continuously updated to reflect any revised documents adopted in the future.
KR-CON is available via the website, mobile application, USB and a web installation version for offline use. Further details can be found on KR’s main website (www.krs.co.kr) and KR-CON website (krcon.krs.co.kr).
Ocean Technologies Group partners with KeelX Education to reduce the risks posed to life and the environment by the improper handling or transportation of dry bulk cargoes
Improper handling of bulk cargo can compromise vessel stability and the structural integrity of the vessel, risking the lives of the crew aboard. Understanding the unique properties of a given cargo, and how to handle it correctly, is critical to ensuring the safety of crew, vessel, and the marine environment.
Through a new partnership, Ocean Technologies Group (OTG) customers will be able to utilise Series One of the KeelX “Safe Handling and Transportation of Dry Bulk Cargoes” e-learning through the award-winning Ocean Learning Platform (OLP). These titles will provide ship owners with a valuable resource to bolster their crews’ existing knowledge while aboard or ashore, as part of ongoing training or even as part of pre-boarding processes, helping reduce risks to safety and to mitigate against possible claims.
Utilising case studies and real-life scenarios, the KeelX titles provide learners with an in-depth understanding of how to handle and transport specialist dry bulk cargoes safely, equipping them with the tools they need to analyse unprecedented situations, explore multiple operational scenarios, and understand the best possible courses of action.
The first modules to be added to the Ocean Learning Platform cover the safe handling and transportation of coal, cement, and soybeans. The series will soon be further enhanced with the addition of two new titles from KeelX that focus on nickel ore and steel coils.
Evros Damianou, KeelX Education Program Lead, said: “The quality of our product is our priority. Teaming up with Ocean Technologies Group guarantees that our product will be delivered to seafarers, globally, online, and offline, easily through the award-winning Ocean Learning Platform. At KeelX, we never feel complacent. We strive to develop our e-courses every day, ensuring our material is constantly up-to-date with new material, including relevant industry developments, new real case scenarios, and additional training information. The Series One titles will provide learners with the relevant knowledge to mitigate and avoid possible claims, incidents, and off-hire, but primarily to safeguard human life on board.”
Henning Davies, Global Commercial Director for Ocean Technologies Group, added: “KeelX invests heavily in its research, putting significant effort into data analysis, international codes, regulations, treaties, and operational incidents. The Safe Handling and Transportation of Dry Bulk Cargoes titles are a perfect example of how KeelX uses the lessons learned from real-world incidents to create high-quality e-learning resources. Offering these new titles through the Ocean Learning Platform provides our customers with the resources to improve the safety of operations and evidence this commitment to their customers, partners, and stakeholders.”
ENDS
Yara and Enbridge to develop and construct a low-carbon blue ammonia project
Yara Clean Ammonia (Yara), a Yara International ASA company, and Enbridge Inc. announce the signing of a letter of intent to jointly develop and construct a world scale low-carbon blue ammonia production facility as equal partners. The proposed facility, which includes autothermal reforming with carbon capture, will be located at the Enbridge Ingleside Energy Center (EIEC) near Corpus Christi, Texas.
Once operational, the production facility will be capable of supplying low-carbon ammonia to meet growing global demand, with an expected capacity of 1.2–1.4 million tons per annum. Approximately 95 percent of the carbon dioxide (CO2) generated from the production process is anticipated to be captured and transported to nearby permanent geologic storage. If confirmed through the Front-end Engineering Design (FEED) phase and approved, total project investment is expected in the range of US$2.6–US$2.9 billion, with production start-up in 2027/2028.
“Yara is pleased to be joining Enbridge in developing this significant clean ammonia project,” said Magnus Krogh Ankarstrand, President of Yara Clean Ammonia. “We are working systematically to develop project opportunities in the U.S. and this project will significantly contribute to our strategy of decarbonizing agriculture as well as serving new clean ammonia segments such as shipping fuel, power production and ammonia as a hydrogen carrier.”
Yara Clean Ammonia operates the largest global ammonia network with 15 ships and access to 18 ammonia terminals and multiple ammonia production and consumption sites across the world, through Yara International. Yara Clean Ammonia’s revenues and EBITDA for 2022 were USD 4,428 million and USD 249 million respectively. Yara Clean Ammonia is headquartered in Oslo, Norway.
Hapag-Lloyd launches new WA1 – West Africa Service
Hapag-Lloyd last week announced its new Container WA1 Service (West Africa Service 1) with a fortnightly frequency, connecting Tanger Med, Nouakchott, Freetown, Conakry, Monrovia, and back to Tanger Med. The first sailing is scheduled for May 15th.
This new service is designed to establish Guinea, Sierra Leone, and Liberia as new markets for Hapag-Lloyd and ensure continuity of service to Mauritania. Hapag-Lloyd will introduce with the WA1 the ports of Freetown, Conakry, and Monrovia to its service portfolio. The company will be represented by 3rd party agents in these ports.
"We are excited to launch our new WA1 Service," says Dheeraj Bhatia, Senior Managing Director, Region Middle East, India and Africa at Hapag-Lloyd. "The service’s launch reaffirms Hapag-Lloyd’s strong commitment to expanding its presence in (West) Africa. It will enable us to better serve our customers and offer them more flexible and efficient solutions.
“Our customers in this region will have access to Hapag-Lloyd's global network via Tangier and will see the added opportunities by expanding our operations to new markets in Guinea, Sierra Leone, and Liberia."
In addition, Hapag-Lloyd announces a new rotation and new timing for its WAX Service – West Africa Express, connecting Tanger Med, Dakar, Tema, Abidjan, and back to Tanger Med with a weekly frequency. The first sailing with new rotation is scheduled for May 7th.
The WAX Service will offer a weekly product for both import and export markets and provide more flexibility to customers. Additionally, the service has high reefer plug availability and an inland haulage product into Mali and Burkina Faso.
DP World sets new Southampton record for handling containers on ship
DP World reports that its team at Southampton has broken its all-time move count record after handling more than 9,000 containers on a ship which visited the logistics hub in late March.
The Ocean Network Express vessel ONE Trust docked at Southampton after sailing from Pusan in South Korea. Some 9,315 containers were exchanged, including 5,824 discharges, 3,473 loads and 18 re-stows, taking 86 hours to complete. This call broke by 13% the previous terminal record of 8,213 moves set by the MOL Truth two years ago.
Steve McCrindle, DP World's Port Operations Director at Southampton, said: “We are committed to consolidating Southampton’s position as the most productive port in the UK, turning vessels around faster than any of our competitors. Our performance on ONE Trust was made possible by our new ten crane operating model, which enables us to concentrate more cranes on a vessel while continuing to service other customers at the same time, thereby boosting our productivity.
“After the disruption of recent years, shipping lines and cargo owners are looking for capacity, reliability and growth opportunities. We are providing it, enabling customers to move goods smoothly and efficiently in and out of the UK and across their supply chains.”
DP World – whose global network of ports and terminals enable goods to move seamlessly and securely around the world – runs the UK’s most advanced logistics hubs at London Gateway and Southampton: two deep water ports with access to freight rail terminals and a rapidly expanding logistics park on the doorstep of the capital. Between them they moved a record volume of cargo (3,850,000 TEU) in 2022.
Over the last 10 years, DP World has invested £2 billion in the UK. Over the next 10 years, it has earmarked a further £1 billion of investment, including to further increase the productivity and capacity of its two UK logistics hubs. Construction is currently underway at London Gateway on a new £350 million fourth berth, which will lift capacity by a third when it opens in 2024.
MPA collaborates with Bluenergy Solutions to launch Proof of Value project for tidal energy
The Maritime and Port Authority of Singapore (MPA) is collaborating with Bluenergy Solutions, to launch a Proof of Value (POV) project to harness hydrokinetic energy off the island of Pulau Satumu, Singapore, as an alternative to the transport of diesel to generate power for facilities supporting Raffles Lighthouse (RLH).
The POV project is a ‘Plug and Play’ solution where underwater turbines, designed by Bluenergy and A*STAR's Institute of High Performance Computing (IHPC) researchers to optimise the hydrodynamic features of the tidal turbine, will be deployed off Pulau Satumu to convert the kinetic energy of moving water into electrical energy.
The POV project is expected to commence in April 2023 and will run for six months. An estimated 2700 kWh of electricity is expected to be generated from four units of turbines used for the POV project during this period. The electricity will be used to power up the non-operational electrical requirements for RLH located at Pulau Satumu, including the RLH living quarters’ electrical needs. During the POV project, the RLH navigational lantern will continue to be powered by the existing solar-based energy system.
A site assessment was conducted and measures have been taken to ensure the safety in the surrounding area. Sensors will be installed to monitor the movement of marine life around the deployment area. The turbines are designed to spin at relatively low Rotation Per Minute (RPM) and will come to a stop within safety distances to avoid risks of injury to marine mammals.
This project will lead to carbon emission savings. MPA will conduct further hydrographic surveys and work with research agencies, to explore the potential of scaling up the use of tidal energy for other waterfront facilities and electric charging locations for vessels in Singapore.
MPA is committed to supporting the development of clean and renewable energy sources to reduce the carbon footprint of the maritime sector and looks forward to the success of this POV project.
MacGregor receives significant RoRo equipment repeat order for Grimaldi PCTCs
MacGregor, part of Cargotec, has received a significant repeat order with a total value of more than EUR 20 million for comprehensive packages of RoRo equipment for a total of five Pure Car and Truck Carriers (PCTC) vessels. These vessels will be built at China Merchant Heavy Industries for Grimaldi Group. This deal will extend MacGregor’s supply of RoRo equipment from five to ten of Grimaldi’s new PCTC vessels.
The orders were booked into Cargotec’s 2023 first quarter orders received. The vessels are scheduled to be delivered to the shipowner between the third quarter of 2024 and the third quarter of 2026.
MacGregor’s scope of supply encompasses design, supply and installation support of RoRo and car deck equipment to all five ordered vessels. The equipment includes quarter stern ramps, internal ramps, covers and doors, both liftable and electrical hoisted car decks. MacGregor’s equipment is designed for multi-purpose use with a high level of flexibility.
The vessels have a loading capacity of over 9,000 CEU and have been designed to transport Electric Vehicles. The vessels have received the Ammonia Ready class notation by Rina, which certifies that the ships have been designed and will be built to be later converted to use ammonia as marine fuel. The vessels will also be equipped with mega lithium batteries, solar panels and shore connection, which will allow them to achieve the Zero Emission in Port ®.
Another main technical innovation is the air lubrication system, an innovative propulsion and optimised hull design, which aim to reduce the carbon footprint.
“With our recent orders for the construction of new PCTC vessels, our Group has reaffirmed its commitment to its customers, especially the world's leading car manufacturers who continue to reward us with their trust,” stated Emanuele Grimaldi, Managing Director of the Grimaldi Group. “In this way, we will continue to live up to their high expectations and meet their evolving needs, with our offer of increasingly efficient and environmentally sustainable shipping solutions.”
“I’m proud to see shipowner’s and shipyard’s continued strong trust in the MacGregor brand and our long experience and great track record with RoRo solutions,” says Magnus Sjöberg, Senior Vice President, Merchant Solutions, MacGregor. “We very much value the solid relationship that we have with both China Merchant Heavy Industries and Grimaldi Group. MacGregor supported Grimaldi already in the planning stage by finding cost savings and giving technical guidance for optimised cargo flow. We are extremely committed to maintaining this trust in future.”
Port of Rotterdam Authority and APM Terminals sign €1bn+ agreement for expansion of Maasvlakte II container terminal
APM Terminals, part of A.P. Moller - Maersk, announces the expansion of its Maasvlakte II terminal in Rotterdam. The project involves a site of approximately 47.5 hectares with 1,000 metres of deep-sea quay.
The Port of Rotterdam Authority is now constructing the new quay walls, which will be completed by mid-2024. The expansion will increase the terminal's capacity by approx. 2 million TEU and the new section is expected to be operational in the second half of 2026.
APM Terminals opened at Maasvlakte II in 2015 as a fully automated facility with zero carbon emissions. The additional section of the terminal will also operate with net-zero emissions and be fully automated and prepared for shore power installation.
Allard Castelein, CEO of the Port of Rotterdam Authority, commented: “We are very pleased with APM Terminals’ decision to expand the terminal and to choose Rotterdam as the hub for its Western European operations. This additional terminal capacity is much needed to continue handling the increasing container volumes in the coming years in an efficient and sustainable way.”
Keith Svendsen, CEO of APM Terminals, said: “Our decision to invest further and expand in Maasvlakte II is a confirmation of Rotterdam’s importance for global supply chains and for our global network. We look forward to this important project and the opportunities it will unlock.”
Last year, 18.5 hectares of land in the same area were already leased to A.P. Moller - Maersk for the development of cross-dock and cold store facilities which will open during 2024. The facilities will provide ‘on-dock’ services for Maersk, which is one of the terminal’s main shipping-line customers.
In addition to the new terminal site, an empty depot of around 16 hectares will also be built for Star Container Services – a subsidiary of A.P. Moller - Maersk – in the area immediately alongside APM Terminals Maasvlakte II.
With this announcement for Maasvlakte II, all the remaining vacant sites for APM Terminals in the Amaliahaven area of the port have now been leased for expansion projects.
Registration open for Capital Link’s 5th Annual Singapore Maritime Forum
Kenneth Lim of the Maritime and Port Authority of Singapore (MPA) is to deliver the Opening Address at Capital Link's 5th Annual Singapore Maritime Forum, to take place on Monday, April 24, 2023 at the Westin Singapore Hotel. The Forum is held in partnership with Columbia Shipmanagement and Singhai Marine Services, and in conjunction with the Singapore Maritime Week.
The Forum aims to highlight the significant role of Singapore as the gateway to Asia and the global shipping markets. It will discuss the developments and trends in the energy, commodities, the various shipping sectors, the global financial and capital markets, as well as issues pertaining to shipping regulatory developments, decarbonisation, digitalization, technology, and Seafarers.
The event will highlight the competitive positioning and advantages of Singapore as a maritime hub and also regional business and trading opportunities in Asia.
Panellists at the opening session will include Mark O'Neil, President – Columbia Shipmanagement and President – InterManager; Nick Brown, CEO – Lloyd's Register; Jeremy Nixon, CEO – Ocean Network Express; Khalid Hashim, Managing Director – Precious Shipping; and Martin Kröger, CEO – VDR - German Shipowners' Association. Keynote speaker at the second session will be Christopher J. Wiernicki, Chairman, President & CEO – ABS.
A Capital Link Shipping Leadership Award presentation will be made during the Forum to Esben Poulsson, former Chairman of ICS and President of the Singapore Shipping Association, for his outstanding contribution to global shipping and Singapore’s maritime development.
ABB to power two new multi-purpose patrol vessels for Finnish Border Guard
ABB has secured a contract with Finnish shipbuilder Meyer Turku to supply an integrated power and propulsion package comprising two Azipod® propulsion units and the Onboard DC Grid™ power system for two new, advanced multi-purpose patrol vessels of the Finnish Border Guard.
Due delivery in 2025 and 2026, the 98-metre ships will replace the outgoing Tursas and Uisko patrol vessels. Alongside the existing Turva, they will be guarding Finland’s borders, performing maritime rescue operations and helping mitigate environmental impacts. The new vessels will also serve as command bases for other vessels, helicopters, rescue swimmers, divers, and, when necessary, other public security authorities during joint operations. With them, the ability to carry out mass evacuations will grow to more than 400 people and the capacity to collect spilled oil will approximately double from the present level.
Patrolling the Finnish coast, which is characterized by rocky waters, jagged shoreline and challenging winter conditions, sets high demands for the vessels. ABB’s dual Azipod® propulsors will provide the manoeuvrability and ice-breaking capabilities to optimize performance and safety while enhancing crew comfort by minimizing vibrations.
“Our new patrol vessels will be at sea about 330 days a year, performing operations under busy and diverse conditions,” said Commander Marko Aheristo, Head of Ship Technical Unit at the Finnish Border Guard. “The vessels are designed for low-emission operations and for energy efficiency, and need a versatile and sophisticated power and propulsion system based on advanced, proven technology. ABB provides us with an integrated package that meets our stringent requirements, ensuring rapid functional capacity and continuous readiness to keep people, property and nature safe.”
By increasing power train efficiency and future-proofing the vessels for the adoption of alternative energy sources, ABB Onboard DC Grid™ will help the Finnish Border Guard to meet environmental targets in the short and long term. The system platform’s flexibility will also facilitate the integration of additional mission systems as requirements evolve, while its high fault tolerance and reliability will result in safer, more efficient operations.
Alongside Onboard DC Grid™ and Azipod® propulsion, ABB’s scope of supply includes the Power and Energy Management System (PEMS™). As the core of a vessel’s combined power and control system, ABB’s PEMS™ ensures optimal use of total onboard power resources in a safe, energy-efficient and environmentally friendly manner.
“We are proud to have been chosen by the Finnish Border Guard for this important and forward-thinking project and look forward to continuing our long-standing collaboration with Meyer Turku,” said Antti Ruohonen, Head of Marine Propulsion, ABB Marine & Ports. “With this order, ABB further demonstrates its position as preferred system integrator for challenging and diverse vessel operations.”
ABB’s presence in the coast guard segment has grown in recent years. Between 2017 and 2020, ABB modernized a total of 10 Canadian Coast Guard (CCG) vessels to extend their lifespan by 20 years. In 2021, CCG awarded ABB a National Individual Standing Offer (NISO) to provide full-scope services for equipment installed onboard these vessels. In 2019, the Norwegian Coast Guard’s KV Svalbard became the first ever Azipod®-powered ship to reach the North Pole.
Corporate well-being provider OneCare Solutions calls for serious attention to issues surrounding menopause at work
During a series of workshops and Q&A sessions, recently hosted by leading well-being provider OneCare Solutions, under their corporate wellness programme, one clear theme emerged: Menopause at work must be taken more seriously in the corporate environment.
“Women above 40 are the fastest-growing demographic in the workplace and are often in leadership positions while also dealing with the challenges of menopause,” says Marinos Kokkinis, Managing Director of OneCare Solutions. “Supporting women in this transitional period of their lives is fundamental in order to ensure productivity and continuity with the highly experienced women in senior positions.”
OneCare Solutions is a leading health and wellbeing platform whose primary offering is a collection of services for the maritime industry including, trainings, medical advisory and medical inventory management, telemedicine, nutrition consulting, public health support and mental health support to seafarers around the globe.
During the ‘Menopause at Work’ event, sessions led by doctors and specialists covered topics including osteoporosis, sexual and mental health, diet, and exercise. The sessions provided practical advice for women and also gave an overview of the type of support an employer can offer, including flexible working arrangements, exercise classes at work, and access to nutritionists and mental health support.
Endocrinologist Dr. Stella Kaouri discussed menopause and osteoporosis, explaining why hormone changes can produce a host of factors including increased risk of bone fractures. “During menopause oestrogen levels decrease in the body, the osteoblasts aren't able to effectively produce bone, making the bones more fragile and brittle,” she noted. Reduced bone density can lead to falls and bone fractures that result in work absences, decreased productivity, and disability. As counter measures, eating calcium-rich foods such as milk, yogurt, cheese, and fish can help prevent and treat osteoporosis. Staying active is also key, particularly doing muscle-strengthening exercises and pursuing training for balance and posture.
Obstetrician/gynaecologist Dr. Maro Petrou (pictured) explained the many phases of menopause including pre-menopause, perimenopause, menopause, and post menopause and highlighted the impact hormonal changes can have. Women commonly experience hot flashes, weight gain, reduced sex drive, sleep disturbance, and loss of concentration. She discussed herbal supplements and hormone replacement therapy within a context of understanding the risks versus the benefits. “Women must consult with their doctor and have a gynaecological assessment before starting any hormonal treatment,” Dr. Petrou advised.
Menopause exercise specialist Kristen Shiaelis discussed the importance of exercise, which can help reduce hot flashes, improve mood and mental health, improve sleep, reduce risk of heart disease, and help with weight management. “A combination of aerobic exercise, strength training, and flexibility exercises may offer the most comprehensive benefits for women going through menopause,” she notes.
Psychiatrist Dr. Katerina Mavrommatis discussed the impact that menopause can have on mental and sexual health, with menopause linked to depression and reduced sex drive. She offered advice to help women maintain their sexuality after menopause, including balanced diet, physical exercise, good sleep quality, better stress management, and educating partners about menopause. Working to improve mental health also has benefits for women’s confidence at work.
Nutritionist Stella Kakouri discussed menopause and diet, explaining that hormone changes can lead to weight gain. “During menopause, everything is about hormones,” she said. She emphasised the importance of healthy eating habits, such as staying hydrated, not skipping meals, eating a variety of foods, and limiting fatty and sugary drinks and foods. To counteract hormone changes, she advised eating foods rich in isoflavones, such as soy, lentils, and legumes as a way to “feed your hormones.”
The overall message was to raise awareness of the impact of menopause on a woman’s personal and work life. “Menopause is a milestone in a woman’s life, that can also affect her work performance. Undeniably, the organisations that focus on diversity, equity, and inclusion (DE&I) perform better,” says Mr. Kokkinis. “Menopause must and needs to be taken seriously.”
For more information about OneCare Solutions, please visit the website, onecare.solutions.
New Managing Director among raft of appointments for Mooreast in UK
International mooring and anchoring specialist Mooreast Holdings Ltd has bolstered its presence in the global market with the appointment of a new Managing Director to spearhead its ambitious European operation.
Aberdonian Barry Silver (pictured) has taken up the role as head of Mooreast UK & Ireland – a post which has seen him tasked with establishing and managing a subsea foundation production facility in his home city, as well as enhancing the company’s international growth as it helps address supply chain challenges related to developments such as the ScotWind auction, Celtic Sea Cluster and Innovation and Targeted Oil and Gas (INTOG) project.
The appointment is one of four in the UK and comes after the company announced plans to create at least 100 jobs in Aberdeen by opening a plant to support the consolidation and assembly of mooring components, as well as act as a hub for its growing European operations.
Mr Silver, who brings nearly 25 years of business, technical and operational experience in offshore energy markets, said: “I am delighted to have joined the Mooreast team and be entrusted to help the company’s rapid international growth through the creation of its UK and Ireland arm. I have spent many years working in different parts of the world, and coming home to Aberdeen to help a global company make its mark here is special.
“I am particularly looking forward to helping Aberdeen play a key role in the renewables energy market, in what is an exciting time for the industry. The city, along with the skilled workers who helped build the oil and gas sector here, has a pivotal place in helping the UK reach its climate goals.
“The appointment of a dedicated Geotechnical Engineer is an expansion of our existing geotechnical offering and supports our client offering here in the UK. Together with our engineering capability, we engage with front-end engineering early in the design process for planned installations and give clients confidence that we will be a full-service partner on their doorstep.
“The team across UK and EU brings a range of knowledge and experience built up across many years, and it is an exciting time for us all. These appointments, together with the announcement of our intention to build a plant here, is an indication of the faith the company has in the region and its people. I have no doubt we will supplement our existing talent quickly as our plans for the region gather pace.”
With Mr Silver’s experience of helping several international organisations expand their capabilities across multiple regions, Mooreast CEO Sim Koon Lam is confident the growth of the UK team will help the Singapore Exchange Catalist-listed company increase its European footprint.
He said: “Barry’s deep domain knowledge and extensive experience, along with his strong leadership skills will be a valuable asset for Mooreast.
“We are assembling a strong team to enhance our European operations, and these appointments have been made with the intention of building strong foundations in the North Sea as we look to expand our capabilities across the continent, particularly in the Netherlands.”
Mooreast, which employs more than 130 people worldwide, is working with private sector-led and not for profit body ETZ Ltd to identify a potential location for the establishment of a manufacturing facility in Aberdeen, along with the development of a skills and jobs plan to support local job opportunities.
ClassNK evaluates Fukuoka Shipbuilding for ‘Zero-Emission Accelerating Ship Finance’ eligibility
Under the ‘Zero-Emission Accelerating Ship Finance’ programme jointly operated by Development Bank of Japan Inc. (DBJ) and ClassNK, the Japanese class society evaluated the LNG dual-fuelled chemical tanker FAIRCHEM PIONEER jointly developed by Fukuoka Shipbuilding and Fairfield Japan Ltd. (FJL), currently under construction for charter to FJL.
Fukuoka Shipbuilding, which has shipbuilding yards in Fukuoka City and Nagasaki City, is a shipbuilding company with strength in building chemical tankers while FJL, the Japanese subsidiary of Fairfield Chemical Carriers of the US, has been working on advanced initiatives to decarbonise its operations, including joint development of the ship with Fukuoka Shipbuilding. The ship, being built at Fukuoka Shipbuilding's Nagasaki Yard will be the first LNG dual-fuelled chemical tanker in Japan.
Under the programme, ClassNK evaluates ships based on a comprehensive scoring model jointly developed by DBJ from the perspective of decarbonisation, environmentally friendly performance and innovation, while DBJ provides investment and financing. FAIRCHEM PIONEER received an ‘A’ rating.
In evaluating the ship, the following factors were taken into account:
• The LNG dual-fuelled engine enables a significant reduction of carbon dioxide (CO2), and the ship is expected to compliant with the Energy Efficiency Design Index (EEDI) Phase 3 requirements achieved prior to the enforcement of the regulation;
• Use of LNG fuels enables a reduction of nitrogen oxide (NOx), sulphur oxide (SOx), and particulate matter (PM) and meets NOx Tier III and SOx regulations;
• Through lifetime environmental performance is addressed by planning to develop and maintain an Inventory of Hazardous Materials required by the Ship Recycling Convention.
OOCL’s Q1 revenue show 58% y-o-y decline in ongoing normalisation of liner earnings
For the first quarter ended 31st March 2023, OOCL”s total revenues decreased by 57.8% to USD 2,175.5 million, as compared to the same period in 2022. Total liftings decreased by 3.2% but the loadable capacity increased slightly by 0.7%. Overall load factor was 3.3% lower than the same period in 2022.
Overall average revenue per TEU decreased by 56.4% compared to
the first quarter of last year but showed some sharp rehional variations.
Trans-Pacific liftings declined 6.4% y-o-y while revenue was down 65.6%. Asia / Europe liftings were down 4.4% while revenue was down 67.9% and intra-Asia / Australasia lifting fell 4.3% while revenue was down 49.9%.
Only OOCL’s Trans-Atlantic results improved with liftings up 25.5% and rates also slightly ahead, by 4.7%.
PSA Italy launches Stuttgart Express rail service
Terminal and logistics operator PSA Italy announced today the launch of its Stuttgart Express rail service, which will connect PSA Genova Pra’ terminal with Stuttgart in Southern Germany twice weekly. To run for the first time on May 4th 2023, the service
will provide a fast, reliable, cost effective and sustainable alternative to transporting containers to and from this region by road.
The Stuttgart Express is the second international round trip container rail service that PSA Italy operates directly from its Genova Pra’ terminal. In 2018, it had launched the thrice-weekly ‘Southern Express’ service that links the Genova port with Basel in Switzerland.
Stuttgart Express will depart at 0500 hours Monday and Thursday from Genova Pra’ terminal and at 1900 hours on Tuesday and Friday from Kornwestheim in Stuttgart.
Transporting containers from Genova to and from Stuttgart by rail is fast, reliable and cost-effective: The up-to-500 metres long train will transport containers between the Italian coast and Southern Germany with a transit time of less than 24 hours. PSA Italy expects 94 percent of trains to arrive within two hours of the scheduled arrival time at a cost that is significantly lower than transporting a container by road.
The Stuttgart Express will help companies reach their sustainability targets by facilitating a modal shift from road to rail. According to an accredited tool developed by the environmental NGO Ecotransit World, switching from trucks to the Stuttgart Express will
reduce carbon emissions by 83 percent and energy consumption by 49 percent, compared to transporting containers by road1 along the Transalpine corridor.
The capacity and efficiency of both Stuttgart and Southern Express services will increase in the next couple of years with two planned upgrades. Firstly, the Italian railway infrastructure provider RFI will lay an additional 750 metres of rail tracks in PSA Genova Pra’ terminal (as part of its expansion of the nearby Voltri station). Secondly, the third Pass of the Trans European Transport Network (TEN-T) Rhine-Alpine Core Corridor rail line (also known as Terzo Valico) will become operational. These two upgrades combined will allow Stuttgart and Southern Express block trains to extend to 750 metres in length.
PSA Italy’s CEO Roberto Ferrari is confident that the Stuttgart Express will be a great success. “Shifting the transport of containers between ports and the European hinterland from road to rail is absolutely necessary in the fight against climate change. The new
Stuttgart Express will make this possible for many organisations in a cost-effective and efficient manner.”
Onyx plans to build plant for ‘blue’ hydrogen at Port of Rotterdam
Onyx Power plans to build a hydrogen production plant at its existing site in the port of Rotterdam to produce low carbon blue hydrogen.
With a capacity of 1,200 MW the plant could produce some 300 kiloton per annum blue hydrogen, to decarbonize industry and meet national decarbonisation targets. The CO2 produced while making the blue hydrogen would be captured and stored in depleted offshore gas fields. By doing so, 2.5 million tons of CO2 could be saved annually.
In order to be able to develop this project, Onyx Power has announced to the responsible Environmental Protection Agency (DCMR) to carry out an environmental impact assessment in accordance with the Environmental Management Act. As part of this procedure, the company has published a Notitie Reikwijdte en Detailniveau (NRD), which describes the intended scope of the environmental impact assessment.
Blue hydrogen is hydrogen produced from natural gas with a process of steam methane reforming and produces no CO2 when burned. Unlike ‘green’ hydrogen it is produced from fossil fuels, however.
IMO addresses risks of ship-to-ship oil transfers and tankers in ‘dark fleet’
The dangerous practice of ship-to-ship transfers in the open ocean, as well as the methods used to obscure ship identities and turning off AIS transponders, were discussed by the Legal Committee of the International Maritime Organization (IMO) at its latest meeting at end March.
The Committee considered a document submitted to the session which raised awareness of the consequences and concerns for the global liability and compensation regime of the increase in ship-to-ship transfers in the open ocean. The Committee noted that these undermined the spirit of the regulation of ship-to-ship operations of tankers as prescribed by IMO’s International Convention for the Prevention of Pollution from Ships (MARPOL).
The Committee was informed that a fleet of between 300 and 600 tankers primarily comprised of older ships, including some not inspected recently, having substandard maintenance, unclear ownership and a severe lack of insurance, was currently operated as a 'dark fleet' or 'shadow fleet' to circumvent sanctions and high insurance costs. This increased the risk of oil spill or collision.
Such circumvention could also result in a participating shipowner evading its liability under the relevant liability and compensation treaties (e.g. International Convention on Civil Liability for Oil Pollution Damage (CLC) and the International Convention on Civil Liability for Bunker Oil Pollution Damage (Bunkers Convention)) in the case of other ships, placing also an increased risk on coastal States and the International Funds for Compensation for Oil Pollution Damage.
Following the discussion, the Committee considered that ship-to-ship transfers in the high seas were high risk activities that undermined the international regime with respect to maritime safety, environmental protection and liability and compensation needed to be urgently addressed.
Drydocks World completes conversion of Firenze FPSO
Drydocks World, a DP World Company, has announced the successful completion of a major refurbishment and conversion project for the floating production storage and offloading vessel (FPSO) Firenze, which is set to be redeployed off Côte d'Ivoire in West Africa.
The fast-tracked project was carried out within 15 months for Saipem S.p.A, the multinational oilfield services and engineering company. Its swift completion will allow the end-client -- Italian energy company Eni and Petroci Holding -- to redeploy the vessel at their first offshore discovery in the Ivory Coast.
Eni and Petroci discovered Baleine Field in Côte d'Ivoire in 2021. In completing the refurbishment project in 15 months, Drydocks World’s swift turnaround gives Eni, Petroci, and Saipem an important advantage in accelerating production at the Baleine field.
Drydocks World deployed 3,000 workers on the vessel daily while maintaining the highest standards of health and safety, which resulted in achieving a milestone of six million Lost Time Injury (LTI) free man-hours.
The technical scope of work for the project included engineering, procurement of bulk material, construction, and support for onshore commissioning. The project also included life-extension and the installation of new equipment to utilize 100% of produced gas and minimize gas emissions.
The upgrade of the FPSO Firenze included the fabrication and installation of five new modules. The project also involved steel, piping, cabling, and extensive coating activities of all the cargo and ballast tanks, hull, and topsides.
Drydocks World CEO, Capt. Rado Antolovic, PhD said: "We are proud to have completed this project in close collaboration with our customer and in such a swift timeframe. Our teams worked tirelessly to ensure the project was fast-tracked and delivered in just 15 months."
Grow Sustainability Consulting welcomes EU’s Fit for 55 initiative on decarbonisation
Leading maritime sustainability specialist Grow Sustainability Consulting has welcomed the new EU ‘Fit for 55’ initiative which has been developed to ensure shipping meets the industry’s decarbonisation targets.
The company praised the move by the European Commission to put forward a package of legislative proposals to revise and update EU legislations to align with the 2030 goal of bringing down EU emissions by at least 55% by 2030.
With the aim of reducing the industry’s carbon footprint, Fit for 55 encourages shipping companies to adopt more sustainable practices and invest in new technologies that can reduce GHG emissions.
Grow Sustainability Consulting assists organisations to improve their performance through the development and implementation of impactful ESG strategies ultimately creating added value to both the organisations that employ its services but also the planet and society at large.
Irene Loucaides (pictured), Managing Director of Grow Sustainability Consulting, said the Fit For 55 initiative will not only help the industry to meet its environmental goals but also provide companies with a competitive advantage, as sustainability becomes increasingly important to customers and investors.
“Changing regulations that will allow businesses to reach the GHG reduction goals will affect all aspects of our lives and the way we conduct business. There are obstacles and challenges and industries cannot transform spontaneously. However, with continuous monitoring and adjustments as needed, Fit for 55 represents an important step forward in addressing the environmental impact of the shipping industry,” she said.
Alongside the EU’s positive move, Grow Sustainability Consulting believes regulations could go further to ensure companies can realistically meet the targets.
Stalo Demosthenous, Environmental Scientist and Sustainability Consultant at Grow Sustainability Consulting, added: “Capital markets may be unwilling to finance the huge investment necessary to meet environmental regulations, so companies are facing huge financial uncertainties over how they can meet the new targets. Some companies are unclear over the requirements and what they need to do to comply.
“The IMO could look at the current regulations and ensure they are clear and new measures are brought in efficiently to help guide businesses through the process. Shipping companies cannot reach these ambitious goals on their own.”
ICS Chairman meets with CSA and Chinese officials signifying new era of collaboration
The International Chamber of Shipping (ICS) Chairman Emanuele Grimaldi met with Mr Feng Bo, the Executive Vice President of COSCO Shipping, who received the ICS delegation on behalf of China Shipowners’ Association (CSA), to pave the way forward for a closer working relationship between the ICS and China.
On Monday 3 April, Emanuele Grimaldi met with Mr Feng Bo, along with new ICS Board Director of China and Chairman of COSCO Bulk Mr Gu Jinsong, Executive Vice-President of CSA Mr. Zhang Shouguo and other representatives from CSA to determine how the ICS and CSA can work together to strengthen global ties. They discussed the key challenges China’s shipping industry is addressing, including decarbonisation, digitalisation, stability of the international supply chain industry, seafarer welfare, recruitment and training.
On the same day, Emanuele Grimaldi met with two high-ranking Shanghai officials, Mr Chen Jining, Member of Chinese Communist Party Political Bureau and Secretary of the Chinese Communist Party Shanghai Standing Committee, and Mr Chen Tong, Member of the Chinese Communist Party Shanghai Standing Committee and President of Shanghai Overseas Friendship Association. The meetings focused on China’s vision for decarbonisation and digitalisation of the shipping industry, free trade and globalisation, and strengthening Shanghai’s future collaboration with ICS.
China is a major shipping nation, and these meetings signify a new era of collaboration between the global shipping industry and China.
During these meetings Emanuele Grimaldi was also joined by an ICS delegation of senior ICS representatives including Secretary General Guy Platten, Deputy Secretary General Simon Bennett, and Edward Liu, Principal Representative ICS (China) Liaison Office.
ICS Chairman Emanuele Grimaldi said: “My meetings this week help the whole of the ICS gain a deeper understanding of China’s great shipping industry, and I look forward to our close collaboration with the CSA going forwards. I extend my thanks to the CSA for their kind hospitality and fruitful discussions.
“Our industry is a global one and so our challenges. Decarbonisation to seafarer recruitment and welfare are impacting everyone within shipping, so we must work together as an industry to find solutions.”
Whilst in China the ICS delegation was also received by the Vice Major of Shanghai Municipal Government Ms. Guo Fang, and paid visits to the China Classification Society Shanghai Branch, International Maritime Organization Maritime Technology Cooperation Centre Asia, China P&I Club.
Columbia Shipmanagement conducting trial of Starlink satellite internet service
Leaders in innovation, the ship management arm of the Columbia Group, Columbia Shipmanagement (CSM), is conducting a trial of the new Starlink satellite internet service on a number of vessels.
The Starlink service, provided by a constellation of low-earth orbit (LEO) satellites operated by SpaceX, is designed to deliver reliable and high-speed internet connectivity to ships and vessels across all sectors of the maritime industry.
Columbia Group CEO, Mark O’Neil said: “We are delighted to be trialing this technology to keep our ships better connected. Starlink has the potential to revolutionise the maritime industry by providing reliable and affordable internet connectivity to ships, even in the most remote parts of the world. This can help improve crew welfare, reduce costs, and enhance safety and security, making it a game-changer for the industry.
“Columbia is committed to our excellent crew and as part of our ICARE philosophy, we focus on different aspects of crew welfare, connectivity being one of them, so we are very pleased to be adopting this new technology among our fleet.”
Starlink is expected to also help cruise companies reduce costs associated with traditional satellite internet services, and provide better connection services for crew members, as well as add a new level of guest experience, enabling them to enjoy high-speed connectivity while at sea.
It can also enhance safety and security by offering a reliable connectivity in remote areas, enabling better communication with stakeholders, emergency services and authorities, as well as enable real time data exchange and communication.
Real time data exchange is important so that a vessel can become a connected EDGE endpoint integrated into the owners or ship managers operations. Ships are not anymore, the remote, disconnected endpoint that may or may not be able to send and receive data.
Starlink can facilitate remote monitoring of vessel performance and maintenance needs, allowing for proactive maintenance scheduling and reducing the risk of unplanned downtime. This can help improve vessel availability and reliability, as well as reduce costs associated with maintenance and repairs.
CSM is widely exploring Starlink in conjunction with a SD WAN (Software defined wide area network) in order to combine proven satellite internet technology as well as cellular 5G near shore connectivity into a unified communication package that will enhance every aspect of maritime operations.
CSM is part of Columbia Group, a fully integrated maritime and logistics services platform including technical ship management, crew management and training, procurement, performance optimisation tools, and crew care solutions, among others.
One Sea and ESA sign MoI to support autonomous shipping with space solutions
The One Sea Association and the European Space Agency (ESA) have decided to establish a strategic collaboration to promote the development of new space-enabled services which will support the maritime sector’s transition towards autonomous shipping. Autonomous shipping offers new opportunities to deploy safe, commercially viable, and environmentally sustainable maritime operations.
Satellite communications and satellite navigation play a key role in the adoption of autonomous shipping technologies and operations. During offshore passages, ships are often further from land than satellites which can offer invaluable secure and resilient communication channels for monitoring, command, and control of autonomous ships. Furthermore, in ports and congested areas, high precision Position Navigation and Timing (PNT) provided by satellites is also critical for the safe operation of autonomous shipping.
This new partnership will combine One Sea’s unique expertise in the maritime sector and in autonomous shipping with ESA’s technical competence and mandate through the Business Applications and Space Solutions programme to support the development and demonstration of space solutions in addressing user needs.
Sinikka Hartonen, Secretary General of One Sea Association, said: ‘We are thrilled about the possibility to collaborate with ESA. We are looking forward to finding ways to jointly support the development of safe and sustainable maritime transport.”
Rita Rinaldo, Head of Business Applications Projects and Studies Implementation Division, said: “ESA is keen to kick-off the work with One Sea Association and its members to strengthen the development and adoption of space solutions as enablers of digital and autonomous shipping, accelerating the sustainable transformation of the maritime sector.”
Important news for all DP Operators and DPVMs
From the beginning of 2024, The Nautical Institute will require that all Dynamic Positioning Operators (DPO) and Dynamic Positioning Vessel Maintainers (DPVM) show evidence of Continuing Professional Development as well as experience in order to renew their certificate.
This means that all DPOs and DPVMs will be required to demonstrate a yearly undertaking of an NI-approved CPD programme AND pass the NI revalidation online exam or take the NI DP Refresher and Competency Assessment Course.
Capt. John Lloyd, Chief Executive Officer of The Nautical Institute, said: “This requirement is a very positive step for maritime. It will help ensure skills don’t fade and the continuous upgrading of technical knowledge will help to ensure safe DP Operations. The NI schemes now require more than just a time-served approach to revalidation in the same way as STCW qualifications do.”
The Nautical Institute has developed a timeline for DPOs and DPVM certificate holders so that they can ensure they satisfy the new requirements. In effect, this means that everyone holding a certificate will need proof of revalidation for each year from 2024 no matter when they need to recertify.
More information, including details of approved providers of CPD, can be found at https://www.nialexisplatform.org/.
GE Power Conversion to partner with Keppel Shipyard for delivery of electrical modules on Petrobras FPSO vessels, P-80 and P-83
GE Power Conversion was recently awarded a contract from Keppel Shipyard Limited, a wholly-owned subsidiary of Sembcorp Marine Ltd, for the design, supply and delivery of two electrical modules for the Petrobras P-80 and P-83 Floating, Production, Storage and Offloading (FPSO) vessels that will operate in Brazil.
The integrated electrical module to be provided by GE Power Conversion is considered the “heart” of the platform as it provides all the distributed energy to provide electric power for the entire FPSO operations, in addition to housing equipment that controls the vessel. GE Power Conversion scope of supply includes medium voltage and low voltage switchboards, MCCs (motor control centers), high power transformers and UPS (Uninterruptible Power Supply) for both P80 and P-83 vessels.
As part of the project execution strategy, delivery of both P-80 and P-83 will be led by GE Power Conversion’s Asia team, based in Singapore. The team includes engineering, project management and commissioning capability and leadership, with GE Power Conversion having long-standing experience working in Singapore’s maritime and offshore sectors.
Recognizing the importance of local content in Brazilian national projects, GE Power Conversion’s LATAM team will provide local engineering, project management and supply chain support, based in Belo Horizonte. The team in Brazil brings expertise developed during previous delivery of electrical modules to six of Petrobras’ FPSOs operating in the pre-salt area, including P-75 and P-77 in the Búzios field.
Philippe Piron, President and Chief Executive Officer at GE Power Conversion, explained: “The world’s offshore energy production market continues to grow and partnerships such as the one we have entered into with Keppel Shipyard Limited demonstrate GE Power Conversion’s position as a global player. GE is committed to the Asia market and will continue to strengthen our presence in the region to enable us to better serve customers who are based there.”
Piron continued: “GE Power Conversion is proud to be alongside our customers as the global offshore industry continues to evolve, and to be supporting them in delivering on energy efficiency and electrification as part of maritime and energy sector transition.”
________________________________________
Tenable chosen by Wärtsilä to solve operational technology (OT) asset management challenges
Wärtsilä has selected exposure management company Tenable to manage its operational technology (OT) asset inventory collection and provide holistic visibility into its OT environment. The deployment allows Wärtsilä to answer its customers’ questions around asset delivery, reducing supply chain risks and taking a proactive stance on cybersecurity.
With Tenable OT Security, Wärtsilä will be able to identify assets, communicate risk and prioritize action all while enabling its IT, security and OT teams to work better together.
It will then will extend the Tenable solution to its customers, allowing them to visualize their own OT environments.
Wärtsilä is a global leader in innovative technologies and lifecycle solutions for the marine and energy markets and was seeking to address three key challenges: automated asset inventory collection, compliance reporting — IEC 62443, etc. - and OT vulnerability reporting.
Previously, this information was collected manually with the data being reported using spreadsheets. This process was time consuming and susceptible to errors and the data could have inconsistencies both in the way it was collected and reported.
“We tested multiple tools and found Tenable OT Security to have great discovery via vendor specific protocols. The workflow of the tool was a great fit for our own needs but, beyond that, we realized that using the solution allowed us to develop and introduce new services to benefit our customers too,” explained Ross Bailey, expert, Cyber Security, of Wärtsilä.
“With Tenable OT Security, we can help our customers to visualize their own OT environment. This allows them to adhere to the evolving compliance landscape and ultimately assists in protecting critical infrastructure.”
The detail provided by Tenable OT Security — which includes firmware versions, serial numbers, anomalous network activity and more — allows Wärtsilä to report to customers accurate and consistent information about their OT environment. This includes information about current project delivery whilst also detailing cyber risks within their environments that need to be addressed allowing both parties to move beyond reactive cybersecurity to a proactive exposure management program.
Amir Hirsch, general manager of OT at Tenable highlights, “As OT networks continue to grow, converge with IT and become more complex, it introduces new risks and challenges for the organization to address. Understanding the nuances within the organization and broader industry, is key to implementing an effective OT security strategy.
“All teams — those tasked with securing IT and OT — should have complete visibility of the entire infrastructure and relevant interdependencies. This means knowing exactly which assets exist, their configurations and full situational awareness of both sides of the house, empowering the security team to see and understand the big picture.”
Veson Nautical announces intent to acquire VesselsValue
Veson Nautical (Veson), provider of maritime freight management solutions, has announced its intent to acquire vessel valuation provider VesselsValue. The move will add a market-leading company and brand with a proprietary data set and unique modelling capabilities to Veson, while bringing onboard a team dedicated to the maritime industry.
VesselsValue was founded in 2011 with a commitment to bringing transparency to the maritime market and is considered the market standard for daily updated, automated, vessel-specific valuations. With a database consisting of more than 81,500 vessels, VesselsValue has been focused on acquiring, storing, and commercializing data in the form of valuations, reports, and market insights.
By combining VesselsValue products and services with Veson’s existing solutions, customers will benefit from a comprehensive product offering. With access to reliable and timely data inclusive of vessel features, users will experience enhanced data-driven decision-making capabilities within their pre-fixture and post-fixture workflows.
Existing VesselsValue clients can look forward to receiving the same high-quality product and services along with new benefits, such as improved model updates, by incorporating information from sources within the Veson product portfolio, such as Q88 and Oceanbolt. Mutual clients can expect access to vessel and fleet valuation data within the Veson IMOS Platform (VIP), and the ability to see CII calculations generated within VesselsValue Green product alongside metrics generated within VIP.
John Veson (pictured), CEO & Co-Founder at Veson Nautical, said: “VesselsValue brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to our organization, and we look forward to them joining the Veson team. In addition to valuing the world’s fleet, VesselsValue has a sophisticated analytical valuation methodology which we will harness to provide our clients with deeper insights to promote sustainable commercial and operational decisions.”
Richard Rivlin, Founder & CEO at VesselsValue, said: “This is a massive moment for VesselsValue. We are incredibly excited to become part of the Veson ecosystem. Connecting to Veson’s powerful platform will drive VesselsValue further towards our mission to make maritime markets transparent. Clients will now have access to a wider range of unique maritime intelligence and first-class support.”
VesselsValue’s maritime brand and product line will continue to produce market-leading analysis and insights under the Veson umbrella, becoming part of Veson’s suite of services when the acquisition is finalized in early May. The area of VesselsValue that focuses on aviation will be spun out into a separate, standalone company.
Ocean Network Express launches ONE Eco Calculator as milestone towards net zero
Ocean Network Express (ONE) is pleased to announce the launch of the ONE Eco Calculator, which calculates carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions from ONE’s operating vessels. The tool is one of the company’s milestones in its journey to net zero.
With the ONE Eco Calculator, units are expressed as either Tank-to-Wake (TTW), a measure of emissions from burning fuel, which has been stored in a tank, or Well-to-Wake (WTW), a measure of emissions from fuel production, delivery, and use aboard ships.
“As we strive towards decarbonization, ONE is on a continuous journey to encourage stakeholders to participate,” said Koshiro Wake, Senior Vice President of Corporate Strategy & Sustainability Department, Ocean Network Express (ONE). “Thus, the ONE Eco Calculator was developed not only for ourselves, but also for like-minded players and customers seeking sustainable transport solutionsand seeking to manage their own cargo emissions."
Koshiro Wake added that the commitment to achieving net zero is at the top of ONE’s management agenda, along with the company’s Green Strategy which was unveiled in March 2022.
The ONE Eco Calculator provides total distance and total CO2 emissions from Place of Receipt to Place of Delivery, including door locations. By offering this service, customers can choose a more environmentally friendly service.
Users can access the ONE Eco Calculator via ONE’s eCommerce Platform and Mobile App.
VIKAND partners with cruise operator Compagnie Française de Croisières (CFC)
Global healthcare specialist VIKAND is partnering with Compagnie Française de Croisières (CFC) to provide its full medical service to ensure the highest level of care for both passengers and crew on CFC’s cruise vessel M/V Renaissance.
Under the partnership agreement VIKAND will provide a team of experienced French speaking medical professionals both onboard and ashore to cater to the health and wellbeing of everyone travelling with the Renaissance.
VIKAND worked with CFC during the Renaissance’s high quality refurbishment transformation into a cruise liner personifying the French spirit in cruising. The VIKAND team has ensured that the vessel complies with all standards and regulations by evaluating the medical facility and conducting a total health care audit and biomedical equipment review. This will give the vessel a strong healthcare foundation allowing the crew to concentrate on providing passengers with an unforgettable French inspired experience.
Once the vessel has been launched, VIKAND will continue to manage the onboard medical facility and day-to-day clinical operations. Ultimately, the medical team will proactively focus on healthcare risk reduction, crew welfare and guest satisfaction.
CFC was founded by Clément Mousset and Cédric Rivoire-Perrochat, both of whom are well known in the world of cruising. Their aim is to relaunch French style cruises for French speaking guests by creating a luxury sea voyage atmosphere, evoking French culture and heritage.
The Renaissance has 629 cabins and can hold up to 1,100 passengers with a complement of 560 crew members. The Bermuda flagged vessel will depart and return exclusively from the ports of Le Havre and Marseille with voyages lasting over twelve days.
“Offering best in class healthcare and public health management is at the core of what VIKAND is about,” said Peter Hult, CEO of VIKAND. “Our motto is ‘we can because we care’ and I am pleased that CFC shares those values. Our strategic partnership will grow even stronger as time goes on and we will continue to be attentive and caring to their crew and guests’ medical needs.”
“I knew we needed a quality healthcare partner that we could trust and as VIKAND’s reputation is second to none, it was an easy decision to make,” said Ralph de Klijn, COO of CFC. “Their medical professionals will stop at nothing to make sure that every passenger and crew member’s health needs are taken care of. They have such a wide pool of talented people to choose from including French speaking doctors and nurses which is important as we’re targeting our home market and need people who can relate to our guests.
“I feel that our concept of bringing back the glamour and tradition of cruise travel where every guest feels special, will only be enhanced with VIKAND’s proactive commitment to healthcare and safety at sea,” de Klijn added. “VIKAND’s professional approach will make our passengers feel safe and secure, giving our crew and hospitality teams the freedom to focus on creating that ultimate guest experience.”
GCMD selects Lloyd’s Register for LCO2 offloading concept study
The Global Centre for Maritime Decarbonisation (GCMD) is pleased to award its concept study on offloading liquefied CO2 (LCO2) captured onboard ships to Lloyd’s Register, supported by their partner Arup.
Shipboard carbon capture can be a mid-term solution for decarbonising international shipping. For the industry to operationalise shipboard carbon capture technologies, addressing the offloading of captured CO2 is key to the entire value chain. LCO2 is likely one of the common forms in which CO2 will be stored and offloaded after its capture onboard ships, and its offloading is likely to take place alongside concurrent cargo and/or bunkering operations. The GCMD concept study will address safety and operational considerations surrounding offloading of LCO2 that has been captured onboard tankers, bulkers and container liners, including articulating the temperatures and pressures under which this process would optimally take place and the different receptacles to be used for this purpose.
The outcome of the study can also provide insights for off-loading CO2 as a cargo under currently less-established operating and storage conditions.
Currently, there are no guidelines for offloading captured CO2. The findings of the study will form a basis to enable sea trials in Phase 3 of Project REMARCCABLE (Realising Maritime Carbon Capture to demonstrate the Ability to Lower Emissions). One of the world’s largest end-to-end demonstrations of shipboard CO2 capture at scale, Project REMARCCABLE is a 500-hr pilot that will be using non-proprietary amine-based solution, aiming to demonstrate 30% annual CO2 emissions reduction or 1300 kg/hr of CO2, store 375 metric tonnes of LCO2 onboard, and offload LCO2 after 10 days of sailing.
GCMD announced its Invitation-for-Proposals (IFP) on 6 December 2022 to a shortlist of classification societies and engineering consultants. The shortlisted recipients were invited to articulate the concept design for offloading shipboard liquefied CO2 captured on board ships to shore, and to ship storage facilities in major ports, of which guidelines are also not available for large-scale CO2 cargo offloading. In response to the IFP, a total of six proposals were received. In addition to internal evaluators, GCMD solicited the input and assessment of three external evaluators, all of whom are industry veterans with extensive domain expertise.
On awarding the GCMD concept study to Lloyd’s Register, Professor Lynn Loo, CEO of the Global Centre for Maritime Decarbonisation, said: “We are pleased to be working with Lloyd’s Register on this LCO2 offloading concept study. The learnings from this study will inform how captured CO2 can be offloaded from various vessel types in general, and enable the sea trials on Stena Impero that are being planned as part of Project REMARCCABLE more specifically.”
A broader intent of this LCO2 offloading concept study is to assess the readiness of current infrastructure for LCO2 offloading. Scenario-based CAPEX and OPEX models for LCO2 offloading infrastructure buildout and operation costs will be generated. Additionally, a review of existing gaps in analytical methods, verification procedures, competency standards, and regulation regimes that are needed to enable LCO2 offloading at major ports will be conducted.
GCMD aims to validate and finalise the study’s findings with industry stakeholders, such as port and terminal operators, vessel owners, and shipyards. Through this concept study, GCMD will help support the establishment of regulatory and operational guidelines and help set a precedence for future piloting and demonstration projects related to shipboard carbon capture technologies at scale. With both the Maritime and Port Authority of Singapore (MPA) and the Port of Rotterdam Authority (POR) as observers on this study, the findings can help assess the prospects of LCO2 to support maritime decarbonisation.
On being successfully awarded the Invitation-for-Proposal, Nick Brown, CEO of Lloyd’s Register, said: “Conducting this concept study for the Global Centre for Maritime Decarbonisation will deliver greater industry understanding around the safety and operational issues that need addressing for offloading captured LCO2 from vessels. This study, in collaboration with stakeholders from across the maritime value chain, will support the establishment of regulatory and operational guidelines around offloading captured liquid carbon dioxide from vessels, which is crucial to enabling safe adoption of carbon capture technologies on board. It will also offer a timely assessment of the capital expenditure and operating expenditure of the infrastructure needed to offload liquid carbon dioxide from ships thus enabling the industry to make informed decisions for creating this infrastructure.”
Borbala Trifunovics (pictured), Ports & Maritime Leader at Arup, said: “Action on maritime decarbonisation requires innovative new approaches to infrastructure and operations at ports. We are bringing together our maritime and energy expertise to shape solutions for LCO2 offloading that are safe, efficient and integrated with wider port functions.”
To support the study, GCMD has convened a consortium of Study Partners and Observers who have the relevant domain expertise, interest and experience to provide inputs over the course of the project and support the review of the final report. A list of participating organisations can be found at Annex A.
The study will commence in April 2023 and is expected to complete within 9 months.
NAMEPA announces annual Safety at Sea event with AMVER awards
NAMEPA (North American Marine Environment Protection Association) will be holding its annual Safety at Sea Seminar as an in-person event at The AGU Conference Center in Washington DC, on Thursday, May 18th beginning at 1:30EDT.
This annual event will be enhanced by the presentation of the United States Coast Guard’s (USCG) AMVER awards to shipowners for their voluntarism and commitment to Safety at Sea. The presentation will be made by USCG Vice Commandant Steven Poulin (pictured) at the end of the seminar.
NAMEPA says the seminar itself will address geo-political stressors, decarbonization initiatives, at-risk implementation of new technologies, inflationary pressures and the cost-of-living squeeze impact the day to day of shipowners, their crews and supportive industries.
It invites attendees to join RDML Wayne Arguin of the USCG, as well as the American Club’s Joe Hughes, Chairman of NAMEPA and INTERMEPA, along with Diana Shipping’s CEO Semiramis Paliou, Chairman of HELMEPA and Vice Chairman of INTERMEPA, as they and industry colleagues discuss of ‘Safety at Sea’ in these pivotal times.
China wins record $3bn order from CMA CGM for 16 large containerships
China State Shipbuilding Corporation is reported to have won an order from France's CMA CGM Group to produce 16 large container vessels worth more than USD 3 billion.
It is believed to be the most expensive single newbuilding ever placed and certainly the largest ever containership order won by the Chinese shipbuilding industry.
The order includes 12 x 15,000-TEU dual-fuel large container ships powered mainly by methanol and four 23,000-TEU ones fuelled mainly by liquefied natural gas (LNG).
Each of the methanol-powered ships measures 366 meters in length and 51 meters in width and is designed to have the ability to carry 156,000 tonnes of cargo, said the Chinese ship manufacturer.
It is also the Chinese group's first order to produce such methanol-fuelled container ships. Independently developed, the vessel is able to achieve net zero carbon emissions over its entire voyage.
Diversity Study Group launches DEI Maritime Masterclass Series
Diversity Study Group, the leading consulting, training, benchmarking, and networking organisation on diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) in maritime, has unveiled its new DEI Maritime Masterclass Series, as well as details of its first masterclass on how maritime professionals can realise their DEI ambitions.
Founded in 2018, the Diversity Study Group supports the global maritime industry in making relevant, useful, and sustainable progress on DEI, both shoreside and at sea.
As DEI rises up the ranks of corporate priorities in the maritime industry, for many organisations keen to embrace the benefits of DEI, the question becomes ‘how’? The DEI Maritime Masterclass Series from the Diversity Study Group aims to meet this need for more in-depth, specialist and impactful coaching and guidance for those responsible for turning good intentions into meaningful DEI action.
This first masterclass in the series will take place on 8th June 2023 and will focus on a number of important questions for delegates, including not only why DEI matters to their organisation as a whole, but also why it is important to each person’s area of responsibility, the value that DEI can add, and the steps to take to reach that point. In addition, at a time of competing priorities for every maritime organisation, the masterclass will explore how best to make DEI stick as a long-term, sustained commitment.
The masterclass will be followed by a one-to-one executive coaching session for each delegate, focusing on how they put the lessons of the masterclass into practice, what has worked well for them and the challenges they face.
Heidi Heseltine (pictured), Founder of the Diversity Study Group, said: “The Diversity Study Group is continually looking at how we can support the maritime industry and those working within it to take advantage of global DEI best practice, whilst ensuring actions related to DEI are bespoke to individual needs and reflect the realities of the maritime world. To succeed, we also need to equip our people with the tools they need to deliver on DEI. That is the purpose of our DEI Maritime Masterclass Series.
“Our first Masterclass, ‘How to deliver on your DEI ambitions’, will be an interactive learning journey. Our team will draw on their experience of working with organisations across a variety of sectors, including maritime, finance, legal and high-performance sport, in order to share insights in designing and implementing DEI strategies from beyond maritime.”
The first masterclass on ‘How to deliver on your DEI ambitions’ will be held virtually on 8th June 2023, followed by a one-to-one Executive Coaching session for all attendees to review progress.
For more information please contact info@diversitystudygroup.com
ClassNK grants Innovation Endorsement Provider certification to FUKUJIN KISEN
Classification Society ClassNK has granted its Class C Innovation Endorsement Provider Certification to FUKUJIN KISEN CO., LTD, a ship owning company based in Ehime, Japan.
FUKUJIN KISEN aims to pursue a new style of ship management utilizing digitalization, called “Next-Generation Ship Management”, and a rewarding and comfortable work environment for employees and seafarers based on ESG principles in order to ensure the safe operation of their fleet. ESG Promotion Team and Marine Project Team were newly established for that purpose.
ClassNK carried out the verification focusing on the policy, planning, and organization building to realize “Next-Generation Ship Management” and “ESG Management”, which are their goals and issued the Class C Innovation Endorsement Certificate for Providers as their organizational structure was found to meet the requirements of the Class C stage.
ClassNK will further promote its Innovation Endorsement for Ships, Products & Solutions, and Providers, and strive to support innovative technologies and initiatives.
National Maritime Museum to mark 75th anniversary of HMT Empire Windrush’s arrival with June celebrations
The National Maritime Museum will mark Windrush Day 2023 with two days of activities on 22 and 24 June 2023. The events will be suitable for a range of audiences, with a variety of activities organised in collaboration with the Caribbean Social Forum and supported by Spirit of 2012.
Visitors will be given the opportunity to learn calypso dance moves, play dominoes Caribbean-style, watch performances, and discover the results of new research on the journeys of people from the Windrush generation. Partnership projects with schools, elders and young people will shape the events of each day, celebrating Caribbean culture and the legacy of the Windrush generation in the UK today.
HMT Empire Windrush was a passenger liner that travelled from Jamaica to Tilbury Docks in Essex, arriving on 22 June 1948. The Windrush carried 1027 migrants who were encouraged to come to the UK with the promise of employment following the 1948 British Nationality Act that granted citizenship and right of abode to all members of the British Empire. The annual celebration of Windrush Day was introduced in 2018 on the 70th anniversary of the arrival of the ship.
This year will mark 75 years since the arrival of the Windrush. It is a major national moment to come together and acknowledge this shared history, delving into the past and celebrating the present and future.
For more information and to see the packed itinery visit the National Maritime Museum website.
Schneider Electric takes on feasibility study to develop UK’s first maritime green corridor
Shore power and energy conversion specialist Schneider Electric announces that it is a technical partner in an eight-month consultancy project to design and deliver the UK’s first green shipping corridor between the Ports of Dover, Calais and Dunkirk as part of the UK’s Clean Maritime Demonstration Competition (CMDC).
As a key technical partner in the consultancy project, Schneider Electric will assess green energy pathway options for marine and land vessels and vehicles to facilitate the zero-emission movement of goods and people between the ports. In addition, Schneider Electric will conduct a land side port and fuel analysis and an assessment of shore power - or ‘cold ironing’ - capabilities to provide electrical power to berthed vessels.
Schneider Electric will also build a ‘digital twin’ – a scalable digital model of the Port of Dover’s electrical infrastructure – that will enable the port’s new shore power systems to be designed and tested virtually before being built and integrated into the port’s existing facilities, ensuring minimal service disruption. It will support the future power requirements of one of Europe’s busiest ports, which handles around £144bn worth of trade in goods.
Peter Selway, Segment Marketing Manager at Schneider Electric, said: “Port operators are facing pressure to transition to more sustainable business models that meet with the net-zero ambitions of the Clean Maritime Plan. UK ports are also becoming energy producers, providing the shore power needed to charge electric and hybrid vessels. By partnering in this consultancy project, we’re able to advise the Port of Dover on how to strategically invest in the shore power capabilities and infrastructure needed to support a green shipping corridor.
“The port is a vital link between the UK and Europe, accounting for more than a third of trade and most of the UK’s ferry traffic. Decarbonising this critical shipping channel will reduce maritime greenhouse gas emissions and provide a blueprint for other ports to follow. With over 90 years of experience, Schneider Electric is well placed to support Dover's journey towards more sustainable and low carbon solutions.”
Megan Turner, Environment and Sustainability Manager at the Port of Dover, said: “Some ferries operating from the port are being upgraded to run on electric batteries and other forms of renewable energy to reduce carbon emissions. This represents a huge transition for us as we evaluate our current and future power needs.
“Working with Schneider Electric, we will be able to determine what type of electrical infrastructure we will need going forward to generate the energy required to power ships and the port itself. The consultation will help us open the green corridor and crucially allow us to understand better how to leverage shore power and manage energy supplies effectively. It also aligns with our ambition to become a sustainable port and be carbon net-zero by 2025.”
Schneider Electric has already assisted the Port of Dover with Clean Maritime Demonstration Competition phase 1 to support the technological development necessary to reduce carbon emissions as part of the Port of Dover Air Quality Action Plan. In addition, Schneider Electric has played an active role in major shoreside installations, including the UK’s first large commercial ship-to-shore connection for the MV Hamnavoe ferry in Orkney, lowering fuel consumption through the provision of low-carbon electrical power.
Stream Marine Group strengthens position in alternative fuels sector to include support and consultancy services
Maritime safety provider Stream Marine Group has launched its support and consultancy service Stream Marine Technical, following its success of becoming a global leading voice in helping companies transition to the use of alternative fuels.
The company has the vision to train the world’s fleet and guide the industry into a more sustainable one with the use of alternative fuels.
With a network of expert advisors who have a wealth of experience in the industry, Stream Marine Technical has already offered training and advice to some of the world’s largest shipyards and shipping companies.
Over the past year SMG has seen significant growth in this area with more companies seeking their expertise, as the industry looks at how it will meet the International Maritime Organization (IMO’s) ambitious decarbonisation targets.
Stream Marine Technical can provide companies with bespoke packages to ensure they are well-equipped to make the transition to using alternative fuels.
The team will carry out an overall assessment and identify any gaps in training or operational matters. Utilising its strong network of experts, it will also help implement a new safety management system or update the current one to ensure robust procedures are in place to guarantee the full safety of crews.
The company will then look at what extra training will be needed and can produce individual tailor-made courses depending on the needs of the client, as well as bespoke consultation and support services where it will guide a company through the entire process.
Head of Business at Stream Marine Technical, Steve Wales, has been onboard with the company for the last few months and brings with him 25 years of experience in the fuels procurement market, as well as the alternative fuels sector from the oil and gas industry.
He said: “We have seen a significant rise in companies realising that they need to start preparing themselves and their crews for the transition to alternative fuels. However, we are seeing a lot of companies thinking that if they get their crews trained up, they can deal with the rest of the transition themselves.
“When a client comes to us, we look at their whole operation, and identify any gaps when it comes to making the transition. We can show them that they also need to look at procedures such as the bunkering process for instance, and how they safely deal with the fuel once it is on the ship. Companies quickly realise that there are many challenges surrounding the transition to alternative fuels beyond having properly trained, qualified crew.”
Stream Marine Technical has been established to lead the way in fully preparing companies for the safe transition to the fuels of the future. Through innovation and knowledge, it is helping to guide the industry towards a net zero future.
The company believes safety is paramount in the process to transition to using alternative fuels and that companies must ensure that their safety management system is robust, explained Mr Wales.
“Each company has their own individual safety management systems, so we work with the systems they have and help them to develop an updated version, which incorporates the new processes that need to be adhered to. It is all about having robust procedures in place to deal with all aspects of operating vessels using alternative fuels,” he said.
New LR report looks at technology readiness of Onboard Carbon Capture, Utilisation and Storage (OCCUS)
The Lloyd’s Register (LR) Maritime Decarbonisation Hub’s Zero-Carbon Fuel Monitor has found that although technology readiness is high, the formation of viable economic cases for each player in the supply chain is needed to scale up adoption of Onboard Carbon Capture Utilisation and Storage (OCCUS).
The research has found that technology readiness for OCCUS is significantly higher than its investment and community readiness, largely due to the development and usage of carbon capture technology outside of the maritime industry.
To see the potential benefits of OCCUS adoption, the readiness assessment highlights that regulations will need to be updated to address the practical challenges, including carbon accounting and how OCCUS aligns with MARPOL regulations. There is also a need for significant infrastructure scaling and investment for onboard and offloading solutions to drive adoption. Additionally, safety and operational factors surrounding offloading of liquified CO2 as a result of the carbon capture process need to be considered.
Outlining the need for an increase in investment readiness for OCCUS, the report concludes that evidence is required to validate the real-world performance of onboard capture technology, to ensure adopters can be assured of the technology’s emission reduction credentials.
The research suggests the solutions could play a significant role in the shipping industry’s journey towards zero carbon emissions, with OCCUS considered as a mid-term ‘step’ for ship operators and owners. OCCUS technology has potential for existing vessels where conversion to zero carbon fuel is cost prohibitive, thus increasing the lifetime of an asset.
The full report can be downloaded from the LR website.
Charles Haskell, Director, LR Maritime Decarbonisation Hub said: “The maritime industry needs decarbonisation solutions that reduce emissions in the short to mid-term, and carbon capture can be a transitional tool for operators and owners to do this. LR Maritime Decarbonisation Hub’s research emphasises the need to focus on providing demonstrable evidence that OCCUS systems can help owners in meeting interim emissions regulations with existing vessels.
“The research also underlines the need for maritime supply chain stakeholders to come together, to ensure that the required infrastructure is developed and implemented to allow the industry to use the solutions which score high on technology readiness.”
The publication of the research follows this week’s announcement that LR has been selected by the Global Centre for Maritime Decarbonisation (GCMD) to carry out an industry first concept study into offloading liquefied CO2 as part of the carbon capture process, addressing the requirement for infrastructure and safety as part of the OCCUS process. LR has also been involved in a number of other carbon capture projects, including the Approval in Principle for Value Maritime’s Filtree system and Rotoboost’s pre-combustion carbon capture solution.
Andrew Forrest to focus on renewable opportunities at Nor-Shipping
Nor-Shipping has announced that Dr Andrew Forrest, the Founder and Executive Chairman of Fortescue Metals Group, will take to the stage for this year’s Ocean Leadership Conference (OLC) on 6 June.
Dr Forrest will join a line-up of speakers and participants that includes: Joseph E. Stiglitz, Nobel laureate in Economics and former Chief Economist at the World Bank; Guy Platten, Secretary General of the International Chamber of Shipping; Kjerstin Braathen, CEO, DNB; and Remi Eriksen, Group President and CEO, DNV, amongst others. The conference, which gathers C-level executives from across the world, will focus on the overall theme of enabling sustainable success through #PartnerShip.
“Andrew Forrest is a true star of the global business scene,” comments Knut Erik Dahle, Nor-Shipping Head of Conference and Event.
“He is renowned not just for his staggering success, but also for his relentless ambition, acumen, philanthropy and passion for progress. These strengths are now being focused on supercharging clean energy development, with an array of projects that span everything from ammonia-powered vessels, to electric trains, solar power, and extensive windfarm developments.”
Dahle continues: “He is an individual with the vision, power and drive to change the world. You could almost say he’s the energy transition personified. It’ll be fascinating to hear his perspectives on how we can work together, in the ocean space and beyond, to empower the green growth we all want to see.”
Dr Forrest’s diverse business interests include Fortescue Future Industries, a leading green renewable energy and technology company, and Squadron Energy. The latter business acquired CWP Renewables, Australia’s largest wind energy company, in December 2022. It is currently working to deliver a pipeline of 20GW of renewable energy projects. Forrest has also pledged to provide the seed funding of A$750 million for the Ukraine Green Growth Fund – a vehicle dedicated to rebuilding Ukraine's energy and communications infrastructure.
Dr Forrest will be delivering a keynote presentation, as well as taking part in an OLC session titled ‘Today’s solutions to tomorrow’s problems’. This will see him discussing developments with fellow panellists including Lynn Loo, CEO, Global Centre for Maritime Decarbonisation, and Lasse Kristoffersen, CEO, Wallenius Wilhelmsen.
Joseph E. Stiglitz will also present a keynote at this year’s conference, taking place In Studio N, Hall A2 at the main Nor-Shipping exhibition facility in Lillestrøm, with a ‘big picture’ analysis of an increasingly complex global economic and geopolitical landscape.
“I don’t think I’ve ever seen such an exciting line-up coming together for the conference, which traditionally marks the start of the main Nor-Shipping week,” states Sidsel Norvik, Director, Nor-Shipping.
“It’s a testimony to the influence this exhibition has that it attracts participants of this calibre, speaking to an audience that are themselves key business leaders and decisionmakers from across the globe. This is where knowledge is shared, partnerships take shape, and change happens. It’s going to be a stand-out event, in a stand-out week for ocean business opportunity.”
Nor-Shipping 2023 runs from 6-9 June in Lillestrøm and Oslo. In addition to the main exhibition and the Ocean Leadership Conference, a range of themed conferences include the first ever Nor-Shipping Offshore Wind and Offshore Aquaculture Conferences, the Second Maritime Hydrogen Conference, and the Fourth International Autonomy Summit.
Record high container order book reaches 7.54 million TEU
A latest report from BIMCO analyses the booming order book for container ships, despite a collapse in freight rates, which will significantly change the fleet in the years to come.
Chief Shipping Analyst, Niels Rasmussen says: “Despite the collapse in freight rates, shipowners still have an appetite for new container ship orders and the order book has continued to grow. The record high order book of 7.54 million TEU will result in significant changes to the container fleet in the coming years.”
During the last 10 quarters, 8.61 million TEU has been contracted, matching the level contracted during the preceding 30 quarters. The order book has now increased for ten straight quarters, reaching a new record high in each of the last four quarters, and at 7.54 million TEU it now equals 28.9% of the existing fleet.
“The large order book will result in significant fleet growth. Scheduled deliveries for 2024 and the remainder of 2023 are currently at 5.03 million TEU. We estimate that recycling will hit nearly 1 million TEU during that period and the fleet could therefore soon exceed 30 million TEU for the first time; up 16% compared to today,” says Rasmussen.
Delivery of the ships will also increase the fuel types used. 57% of TEU capacity in the order book involves ships with some level of alternative fuels preparation compared to only 10% in the current fleet. The first ships using methanol will be delivered and the first ammonia-ready ships will also be launched.
Soon, five different fuels could be in use: low- and high-sulphur fuel oil, LNG, methanol, and ammonia. As the use of alternative fuels increases it will become increasingly difficult to establish a single relevant rate benchmark for the time charter and asset markets.
At the same time, the operators’ ownership share of the fleet will continue to grow. Ten years ago, the operators’ ownership share of the fleet capacity bottomed out at 50% but has since climbed to 61%. This share will increase further in the coming years as 65% of the order book capacity is controlled by operators.
Many of the non-operating owners’ largest ships are fixed on long-term charter contracts and it is increasingly only smaller ships that operate in the short-term charter market. Combined with the increasing ownership share, operators’ ability to use the time charter market to quickly adjust fleet capacity is therefore decreasing.
“Most importantly, the new ships will be more fuel efficient than most of the existing ships and the introduction of alternative fuels will help reduce their greenhouse gas emissions,” says Rasmussen.
Unpredictable conditions ahead but shipping confidence holds steady
Despite the Russian invasion of Ukraine dominating news headlines and creating economic uncertainty, overall confidence in the shipping industry has stayed strong, according to the latest Shipping Confidence Report by accountancy and business advice specialist BDO, based on a survey it conducted in February 2023.
BDO adds that shipping confidence has stayed at ‘historically high’ levels of around 7/10 for the last 24 months.
This general trend is not reflected in intentions to make a major investment in the next 12 months, however, BDO notes. The investment measure of confidence has been very volatile over the last 12 months with intentions for Brokers and Asia, in particular, seeing huge changes in just the last six months.
In its latest survey, BDO specifically asked about expectations of the Baltic Dry Index in the next 12 months following the BDI’s progressive decline over the last 18 months. Expectations are that the BDI will be below its current level of c. 1,450. This is a more pessimistic outlook than a year ago when respondents expected the BDI to climb up from levels around 2,000.
Overall confidence has held steady since August 2022 with a score of 7.1/10. This is slightly lower than the historic highs seen in 2022. Confidence in Europe has similarly held steady, while Asia has seen confidence up slightly at 7.2/10.
Confidence has improved for Managers and Brokers but fallen very slightly from historic highs for Owners, where evels of confidence are at 6.8/10, 7.5/10 and 7.6/10 respectively.
AMP and Maersk coordinate actions for the benefit of Panamanian seafarers
To seek new job opportunities, promote the transfer of knowledge and strengthen existing relationships, the Panama Maritime Authority (AMP) held an important working meeting with senior Maersk management at the regional office of A.P. Moller – Maersk in Panama.
The AMP’s General Director of Seafarers (DGGM) Capt. Juan Maltez aand his team attended the meeting, as did Maersk’s Director of Maritime Execution for America Deepak Kukreti, Director General for the Caribbean area Antonio Dominguez, and Regional Director for Panama Guadalupe Concepcion.
Various topics were addressed, including current challenges in the logistics of crew changes and other facilities for seafarers, opportunities for alignment in the current initiatives of AMP and the National Migration Service (SNM), and the importance of Panama as a crew change centre.
Also discussed was a roadmap towards safe and efficient crew changes and improvements in facilities for seafarers and protection of their rights. This included the importance of crew members' mental health, better access to health services and their need for recreation.
The Director of the DGGM, Capt. Juan Maltez, pointed out that "this meeting was very cordial and fruitful since we were able to learn first-hand the opinions that Maersk has of the work carried out by the AMP. In this regard they told us that the access line that we maintain at the Tocumen International Airport, is of great importance for them, while also expressing their appreciation for this and other initiatives carried out for the benefit of seafarers.
“The first steps were also taken to work jointly in the elaboration, in the future, of the signing of a Memorandum of Cooperation (MOU) between the AMP and Maersk, with the objective of formalising the shipping opportunities for our Panamanian seafarers.”
For his part, Director Kukreti highlighted the excellent support of the Panama Maritime Authority in the management of crew changes in the midst of the global crisis of Covid-19, which is why they feel optimistic that through mutual collaboration, it would be possible to further support seafarers and enhance Panama's position as a strategic international maritime centre.
Ammonia-fuelled gas carrier design jointly developed by MOL, Tsuneishi and MES
An ammonia fuelled gas carrier design which has been jointly developed by Mitsui O.S.K. Lines, Ltd., Tsuneishi Shipbuilding Co., Ltd., and Mitsui E&S Shipbuilding Co., Ltd. has received Approval in Principle from classification society ClassNK.
The vessel uses some of its ammonia cargo as fuel and is targeting to achieve net zero CO2 emissions while underway. ClassNK carried out the review on jointly developed design of the ammonia fuelled medium size gas carrier in line with Part C of its guidelines, and examining the risk assessment through HAZID. Upon confirming it complies with the prescribed requirements, ClassNK issued the AiP.
Speaking on the occasion, Mr. Ken Furuya, Executive Officer, General Manager of Sales Dept., Mitsui E&S Shipbuilding said: ”We, Mitsui O.S.K. Lines, Tsuneishi Shipbuilding and Mitsui E&S Shipbuilding, would like to express our appreciation to ClassNK and Lloyd’s Register for the support and cooperation to this joint development project.
“This AiP is an important milestone for us. We will continue to make an effort to complete this project successfully. Anticipating an increase in the need for ammonia as a marine fuel and greater demand for transporting it, the three companies are committed to playing a role in society's overall decarbonization efforts by providing clean ocean transport solutions with the zero emission ocean-going vessels.”
Mr. Masaki Matsunaga, Corporate Officer, Director of Plan Approval and Technical Solution Division, ClassNK said: “ClassNK is honoured to have had the opportunity to be involved as a certification body in this concrete effort toward decarbonization through close collaboration among MOL, Tsuneishi Shipbuidling, and Mitsui E&S Shipbuilding, and has issued the AiP as a milestone. For the project's target to achieve net zero CO2 emissions while underway, we will continue to provide necessary support through its technical expertise.”
ClassNK issues AiP for conversion plan of medium-sized Self Elevating Platform vessel
ClassNK has issued an Approval in Principle (AiP) for the conversion plan of the medium-sized self-elevating platform (SEP) vessel for the installation of large wind turbine generator (WTG) on a semi-sub floater in port jointly developed by TOA Corporation (TOA), NIHON SHIPYARD CO.,LTD. (NSY), and Japan Marine United Corporation (JMU).
This project involves a semi-sub floater developed by JMU, and a large WTG to be installed by converted SEP vessel. As a solution to the current lack of port facilities for installing a large wind turbine on a foundation at ports in Japan, TOA, NSY and JMU have been jointly researching and developing a method to convert a medium-sized SEP vessel to be used as a jacked-up tall crane in a port.
The tripartite joint R&D is based on the SEP vessel (equipped with a 1,250-ton crane) under construction at JMU shipyard and to be co-owned by two companies including TOA corporation after delivery. The converted SEP will enable the installation of large wind turbines even at ports without adequate facilities and is expected to promote the expansion of floating offshore wind power generation by providing a wider range of base port options.
ClassNK carried out a review of the jointly developed conversion plan in line with Part O of the Rules for the Survey and Construction of Steel Ships and issued the AiP on verifying conformity to the prescribed requirements.
ClassNK says it will continue to support advanced initiatives aimed at the broader adoption of offshore wind power generation as the certification body and contribute to the decarbonization of society.
IMO voices concern over piracy incidents in Gulf of Guinea
The International Maritime Organization’s Secretary-General Kitack Lim has expressed his deep concern over the recent kidnapping of six crew members from the MV Monjasa Reformer in late March and reports of an ongoing incident involving a tanker in the Gulf of Guinea.
Secretary-General Lim said that IMO recognizes the progress that has been made since 2021 in the collective efforts to combat the threat of piracy and the resulting reduction in the number of pirate attacks. Nevertheless, “IMO urges continued sustainable support to the important work of the regional navies and entities within the Yaoundé Architecture to protect seafarers,” he said “and to the operational piracy response from the Gulf of Guinea Maritime Collaboration Forum (SHADE) and the G7++ Friends of the Gulf of Guinea, in keeping with the United Nations Security Council Resolution 2634 on piracy in the Gulf of Guinea.
“I would like to appreciate the regional and international efforts to respond to this disturbing incident. I wish to reiterate that the ongoing threat must be addressed cohesively, involving all relevant actors and including regional entities.”
SEA-LNG responds to marine fuel’s naysayers
The SEA-LNG coalition has shared a media statement in response to recent comments from the ‘Say No to LNG’ campaign which it says “seeks to misrepresent the clear benefits of the LNG pathway to decarbonisation and overstate its challenges.”
SEA-LNG continues to believe that policy decisions must be based upon peer-reviewed, practical scientific analysis conducted on a full lifecycle (well-to-wake) basis. Thorough independent studies and accurate information which compare alternative fuel pathways on a like-for-like basis, are key to our industry making informed investment decisions.
Below are excerpts from the statement, which highlights some key points for consideration in vital alternative marine fuel discussions.
“Say No to LNG (SNtL) bases its campaign on a false contention, suggesting the industry is hiding the issue of methane emissions. SNtL states “What they don’t tell you is that LNG replaces CO2 emissions with methane emissions….” when the opposite is true. The industry has been open about methane emissions, recognising it is an issue which needs to be addressed with urgency and has undertaken publicly available, peer-reviewed GHG emissions analysis on primary data from all major marine engine manufacturers.
“Levels of methane slip have been reduced by a factor of four since LNG-fuelled engines were introduced in the early 2000s and today, the LNG-fuelled vessel order book is dominated by engine technologies with low, or negligible levels of methane slip.
“The industry is engaged in projects to measure operational methane emissions from a variety of vessel and engine types. In September 2022, it launched an initiative, the Methane Abatement in Maritime Innovation Initiative (MAMII), to monitor, measure and abate methane emissions in the maritime supply chain.”
The full statement is available on the SEA-NLG website.
Marlink and Alpha Ori Technologies combine expertise to provide IoT services
Smart digital solutions company Marlink has signed an MoU to create a strategic partnership with Singapore’s Alpha Ori Technologies (AOT) to support shipowners, shipmanagers and charterers in collecting data and providing advanced analytics they need to improve vessel performance and monitor health of onboard systems.
The MoU will see the two entities cooperate to bring vessel performance improvements using AOT’s SMARTShip™ and Marlink’s BridgeLink platforms, optimising services for delivery via Marlink’s hybrid network, enjoying streamlined and secure delivery of data and resources.
By combining improved navigational safety and voyage performance data with predictive maintenance and digital services, these two market leaders can deliver a best-in-class service experience for shipowners, vessel operators and managers across the maritime industry.
SMARTShip™ is a digital platform that delivers real time analytics to increase operational efficiency. AOT’s goal is to provide insights that unlock investment opportunities to secure the most promising returns. Easy to use, it enables faster decision making in day-to-day operations.
BridgeLink is a solution that connects to any data-enabled equipment installed onboard ship, collecting data which is saved to the cloud for analysis by the client or third parties. By streamlining the data collection process from onboard systems it can support competitiveness by maximising vessel availability.
Feedback collected by AOT and Marlink suggests that the vast majority of shipping companies will not hire IoT and data specialists or make investments on in-house IT infrastructure to capture the operational data they need; preferring to use off-the-shelf analytical apps that will provide insights and recommendations based on turned contextualised data into actionable information.
“The value of data to shipping’s digitalisation and decarbonisation process cannot be underestimated but not every shipowner has the resources to manage the capture of data or to turn this into performance information,” said Nicolas Furgé, President, Digital, Marlink. "This partnership with AOT gives shipowners a platform that can manage both vessel operations and maintenance planning, helping to reduce fuel consumption and carbon emissions.”
“It is imperative for shipowners and operators to leverage real time digital data and make decisions based on real time analytics and we see a sense of urgency and an upward trend in adoption driven by the sustainability agenda the maritime sector has embraced,” said Bala Sankaran, Co-CEO, Alpha Ori Technologies. “This partnership with Marlink will help us in scaling and leveraging on Marlink’s data acquisition platform for a faster SaaS deployment.”
NORDEN partners with 123Carbon to support the decarbonisation of customer supply chains
Together with 123Carbon and its partners AllChiefs and Verifavia, NORDEN will begin to issue carbon inset tokens through 123Carbon’s newly developed platform to support the decarbonisation of customer supply chains.
With the platform, NORDEN will now be able to tokenise CO2-equivalent reductions made on biofuel voyages and allocate them to industry customers who are looking to reduce their maritime Scope 3 emissions.
Adam Nielsen, Head of Logistics and Climate Solutions at NORDEN, says: “Carbon insets are not new to the market, but are in their early days in the shipping industry. However, we believe that carbon insetting will play a major role in accelerating the uptake of low-carbon fuels by connecting the demand for green freight with the supply, while bridging availability constraints.”
Today, the supply of low-carbon fuels such as biofuel is limited both in terms of production and geographic availability. With the platform, the intent is to connect emission reductions made by NORDEN with customers that due to trading routes or other constraints are not able to bunker low-carbon fuels, but are still looking to decarbonise their operations or supply chains.
Jeroen van Heiningen, Co-Founder and Managing Director of 123Carbon, added: “It is critical for industry leaders like NORDEN to become early adopters of innovations that will ultimately drive the agenda for carbon insetting. We are here to empower organisations to make a real difference within their own supply chains and accelerate the decarbonisation of transportation. This partnership demonstrates the value of having high quality and transparent solutions that people can rely on.”
The platform support auditing companies like Verifavia, a global verification auditing body specialised in transport, to thoroughly verify all underlying documents online, after which immutable tokens are issued on blockchain.
Nicolas Duchêne, General Director of Verifavia, said: “Carbon insetting differs from carbon offsetting in that carbon emissions are reduced directly within the shipping value chain, rather than somewhere outside of and unrelated to the industry. Unlike carbon offsetting, the entire chain of custody for the insetting process is independently verified - as well as the reductions corresponding to an intervention - enabling genuine transparency over carbon reductions supported by reliable certification.”
Every token guarantees complete ownership to the buyer and provides full transparency and chain-of-custody with regards to the biofuel interventions, emission calculations, assurance and risks mitigations.
WFW opens Tokyo office
Watson Farley & Williams (WFW) announces the opening of its new office in Tokyo, Japan, its 19th worldwide. The office will be led by WFW Partner Simon Collins (pictured), who relocates to Tokyo from Hong Kong, and newly arrived Partner Keisuke Imon.
In addition to Keisuke, Counsel Shusuke Fukunaga and a team of associates and paralegals are also joining WFW Tokyo. Most of the team previously worked together for leading international law firm White & Case in Tokyo.
WFW Tokyo will initially focus on asset and structured finance in the aviation and maritime sectors, offering both Japanese and English law capabilities. Japan is a key jurisdiction for those sectors and the firm already has long-standing relationships there, providing an excellent starting point from which to develop a strong presence in the country. The firm is registered locally as Watson Farley & Williams (Gaikokuho Kyodo Jigyo Horitsu Jimusho) and includes both Japanese qualified bengoshi and registered foreign gaiben lawyers.
Simon, who is qualified as a solicitor in England & Wales, was an associate at WFW in both London and Singapore before joining White & Case in 2005 and re-joining WFW in May 2022. He is widely recognised as one of the top asset finance lawyers in the region by leading legal and industry journals including Legal 500, Chambers and Airfinance Journal. He advises clients on complex cross-border aviation and maritime finance transactions, including asset and project finance, structured lending, leasing and commercial transactions.
Keisuke, who worked for Clifford Chance before joining White & Case, is qualified as a bengoshi and has extensive experience in the Japanese market advising on a wide range of financing matters including asset, project, structured, debt and real estate finance. Clients include export credit agencies, financial institutions and Japanese and international leasing companies. Keisuke is also acknowledged as one of Japan’s top asset finance lawyers, with Chambers Asia Pacific 2022 noting that clients praise him as “the best aviation lawyer in Japan”.
Shusuke, qualified both as a bengoshi and a solicitor in England & Wales, advises on a broad range of banking and finance transactions and is recognised by Chambers Asia Pacific 2023 as a “rising star who advises on domestic and cross-border financings, with a particular focus on aircraft and ship financing”.
WFW Senior Partner George Paleokrassas commented: “We are extremely excited to be opening in Tokyo with such a first-class team, giving us a strong presence on the ground in the world’s third largest economy and further reinforcing our dominance in asset finance across Asia. In addition to our strong maritime practice, we now have the largest aviation finance practice in the Asia Pacific region.
“Following as it does our recent opening in Seoul in February, this latest expansion highlights WFW’s commitment to the Asia Pacific region and its importance to our business”.
Simon added: “We are really excited to be opening in Tokyo. WFW’s long-standing reputation for excellence for transport sector asset finance is universally acknowledged and makes it the obvious platform from which our team can truly expand and enhance the service we can offer our Asia Pacific clients. I am delighted to be bringing the team back together as the new WFW Tokyo office and look forward to making WFW the ‘go-to’ law firm for aviation and maritime finance in Japan”.
New features added to ClassNK GHG emissions management tool
ClassNK has released new features for its GHG emissions management tool ClassNK ZETA (Zero Emission Transition Accelerator).
ClassNK ZETA is a tool for visualizing CO2 emissions and CII ratings of ships. It provides accurate current status and simulation of CII ratings by linking with ClassNK MRV Portal, which is a compliance supporting system for MRV schemes such as IMO-DCS and EU-MRV regulation.
The following three features are newly released.
• CII benchmark viewer (pictured), where based on the analysis of IMO-DCS and EU-MRV data, users can compare the CII rating of a ship to other similar ships by ‘ship type/size’ and ‘ship age’. It enables them to check the competitive edge of the ship in terms of CII ratings and consider the necessity for actions.
• CII simulation of this year, where users can simulate how the CII rating of a ship would change in a given year if it is operated with altered speed or other parameters. This will be useful in making an operation plan for the ship to achieve a targeted CII rating.
• Performance Table powered by NAPA (Optional) where referring to up-to-date estimated value on each ship's performance calculated by NAPA, users can check ship speed and fuel consumption for different engine outputs under various weather, sea and loading conditions. It supports appropriate planning for ship operations, hull cleaning, etc.
ClassNK notes that requirements related to CO2/GHG emissions from ships are expected to continue to expand from both regulatory and private frameworks, including EU-ETS, BIMCO CII operations clause for time charter parties, and life cycle (Well-to-Wake) GHG emissions for fuel. On top of adding new features to ClassNK ZETA for addressing these requirements, ClassNK will continue to strive to enhance tools to support GHG emissions management.
Port of Rotterdam Authority offers site for green hydrogen plant with a capacity of up to 1 GW
The Port of Rotterdam Authority is developing an 11ha site on the Maasvlakte suitable for the construction of a very large green hydrogen plant. The reason is the tender for the IJmuiden Ver Wind Farm later this year.
In the procedure for plot Beta, the Minister for Climate and Energy is encouraging companies to smartly integrate much of the wind energy into the energy system. The production of hydrogen directly on the coast is a logical solution, as it avoids additional load on the high-voltage network. The wind farm and hydrogen plant should be ready around 2028.
Allard Castelein, Port of Rotterdam Authority CEO says: ‘The construction of a hydrogen plant with a capacity of 1 GW is the next leap in scale in the production of green hydrogen. Several companies are now building, or have advanced plans to build, electrolysers with a capacity of 200 to 250 MW at the Maasvlakte. These would currently be the largest in Europe, but we already want to accommodate the next generation of hydrogen plants. These are expected to be five times larger.’
Several companies have plans to realise a total of some 1,350 MW (1.35 GW) of electrolysis in Rotterdam. The ambition of the Port Authority is to achieve 2 to 2.5 GW of electrolysis by 2030. That will be within reach with this development. The national government is aiming for 4 GW nationwide by 2030.
More and more wind farms will be built in the North Sea in the coming years. Part of the electricity they generate will be used to make green hydrogen: electrolysis allows water (H20) to be split into hydrogen (H2) and oxygen (O). This green hydrogen is an alternative to natural gas. Making hydrogen directly on the coast is appealing, since it does not require additional high-voltage cables on land. It is also attractive to produce where the main customers are: industry.
In late March, the Minister for Climate and Energy announced the draft ministerial regulations for IJmuiden Ver Wind Farm Zone Beta. It will have a capacity of 2 GW and should be ready around 2028. The formal tender process will start in the second half of 2023. Various parties have already indicated their interest. The Port of Rotterdam Authority will reserve 11 hectares on the Maasvlakte exclusively for the party that wins this tender and wants to produce green hydrogen on a large scale in Rotterdam.
MPA and Shell sign MOU to accelerate maritime decarbonisation efforts in Singapore
The Maritime and Port Authority of Singapore (MPA) and Shell Eastern Trading Pte Ltd (Shell) signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) to expand collaboration on the maritime decarbonisation efforts in Singapore.
The MoU was signed by Mr Teo Eng Dih, Chief Executive of MPA and Mr Nick Potter, General Manager of Shell Shipping and Maritime for Asia Pacific and the Middle East. The signing was witnessed by Mr S Iswaran, Minister for Transport and Minister-in-Charge of Trade Relations and Chairman of Shell Companies in Singapore, Ms Aw Kah Peng.
As part of the five-year MoU, MPA and Shell will work together to advance the adoption of electric harbour craft and the development of low- and zero-carbon fuels in Singapore.
To support the adoption of electric harbour craft, MPA and Shell will identify energy-related development opportunities. This includes collaboration on charging infrastructure for electric harbour craft.
Both parties will also work together on the research and development of low-and-zero-carbon fuels. This includes the training of crew in the handling, operations and maintenance of vessels operating on such fuels.
“MPA is committed to working with industry partners, like Shell, to drive decarbonisation efforts in the maritime sector,” said Mr Teo Eng Dih. “Our partnership with Shell will tap into both MPA’s and Shell’s expertise in maritime decarbonisation, renewable energy and innovation.
“The MoU is an important step towards achieving our 2030 goal for all new harbour craft to be fully electric, be capable of using 100% biofuels or be compatible with net zero fuels, and achieving net zero emissions in our harbour craft, pleasure craft and tugboat sectors by 2050.”
“We are delighted to sign this MoU with MPA which paves the way for continued collaboration on a variety of decarbonisation solutions, including electrification and low- and zero-carbon fuels,” said Mr Nick Potter. “Shell is working closely with industry stakeholders from across the value chain to explore the fuel and technology pathways to shipping decarbonisation, and later this year, we plan to kick off a hydrogen fuel cell trial on a Shell-chartered vessel.”
The MoU signing took place at an event held by Shell to unveil the first of a series of electric ferries in Singapore, and the first for Shell globally, held at the Shell Energy and Chemicals Park Singapore on Pulau Bukom.
Shell worked with a Singaporean homegrown shipbuilder and shipowner, Penguin International, on the first fully electric ferry service in Singapore. Penguin is the turnkey designer, builder, owner and operator of the electric ferries and their rapid shore chargers.
Dubbed by Penguin as the Electric Dream project, the first electric ferry, Penguin Refresh, is scheduled to commence operations in May, ferrying Shell personnel, contractors, and visitors between Pasir Panjang Ferry Terminal and Pulau Bukom. Two additional electric ferries will be operational in August 2023.
MPA will work with Shell to make its charging facilities at Shell Energy and Chemicals Park Singapore available for other electric harbour craft users. Shell is also exploring the feasibility of expanding the shore charging infrastructure on the island.
Advanced Navigation unveils Australia’s largest subsea robotics centre
Advanced Navigation, an innovator in artificial intelligence (AI) for robotic and navigation technologies, announces inauguration of the largest subsea robotics facility in Australia, located in Balcatta, Western Australia (WA). The high tech manufacturing and R&D facility will accelerate the production of the company's revolutionary underwater technologies, including its autonomous underwater robot, Hydrus.
“Now more than ever, there is a need to open up the earth's oceans, to make data and knowledge more accessible to global communities, research institutions and governments. Western Australia has always been an exploration hub for ocean discoveries.
The new subsea centre will help Advanced Navigation meet the growing demand for high-grade underwater data, bringing new and existing solutions to market far more quickly and efficiently. With the goal to grow our subsea team threefold, we are confident this investment will deepen and advance our understanding of the oceans." said Xavier Orr, CEO and co-founder, Advanced Navigation.
The subsea centre is located on a massive 5.5 acre site. The facility is split between development and manufacturing for high volume production and continued research and expansion of subsea navigation and robotics technologies. This includes the growth of its underwater artificial intelligence division.
Advanced Navigation is a proud stalwart for independent, in-house design and vertical integration that has ushered in many innovations, including extreme miniaturisation of pressure-tolerant electronics, sophisticated sonar technologies and AI-based autonomous systems. The new centre also includes full testing facilities with several marine simulation environments to ensure reliable performance and the highest quality production.
Advanced Navigation's break-through underwater navigation and robotic technologies are utilised across the blue economy, supporting research, aquaculture, offshore renewable energy, transportation, surveillance, biotechnology and high-tech services.
The company's recent autonomous underwater robot Hydrus continues to revolutionise undersea research, survey and exploration by making data capture far simpler and vastly more accessible. The Hydrus design synthesises numerous cutting-edge navigational, sonar, propulsion and data capture technologies with highly developed and sophisticated artificial neural network (ANN) intelligence.
With support from prominent research institutions including the University of Western Australia, Curtin University and philanthropic organisation Minderoo, Advanced Navigation continues to establish sustainable technologies to foster the growth of the blue economy, nationally and internationally.
“It’s exciting to see Advanced Navigation continue to grow its team of engineers in Western Australia,” said Justin Geldard, Coastal and Ocean Researcher, University of Western Australia Ocean Institute. “At UWA we are researching how natural and artificial reef structures can protect coastlines by dissipating wave energy - Hydrus is a key tool in mapping and surveying these underwater structures. The technology makes more efficient use of our funds and ultimately scales up our ability to collect high-resolution data.”
Eureka moment for Scottish company bringing deep learning to ancient art of weighing ships
A consortium of researchers in Scotland has developed new artificial intelligence (AI) technology that will modernise the way shipping vessels are weighed and checked for stability, a process still based on principles formulated by Greek scientist Archimedes more than 2,000 years ago.
Naval architecture firm Tymor Marine and the University of Edinburgh, with support and funding from CENSIS – Scotland’s innovation centre for sensing, imaging, and Internet of Things (IoT) technologies – have created a machine vision tool, powered by deep learning, that will automate and more accurately undertake the reading of draught marks on ships.
Draught marks – numbers marked in increments on the side of vessels to indicate how much of the ship is submerged – are currently measured and recorded by eye from the quay or a boat, similar to the way they have been for more than two millennia.
However, the measurements are often open to interpretation – waves, faded markings, lighting, and marine growth are just some of the factors that can lead to different readings being taken from the same vessel. Mariners also have to check the marks on both sides of a ship, which can take hours, requires a boat, and involves health and safety risks.
Accurate draught readings are critical for ensuring a ship’s stability, indicating how much cargo it is carrying and what depths it can safely navigate. The readings are also checked by port authorities to ensure vessels are complying with local limits and regulations.
The technology uses algorithms applied to video recordings of ships to accurately identify where the water line reaches on a ship’s hull. Tymor Marine and the University of Edinburgh will continue to develop the technology, with the aim of creating a smartphone app that allows seafarers to record draught marks and upload them to the cloud for real-time readings.
Rosie Clegg, naval architect at Tymor Marine, said: “We had been trying to develop this technology for some time, but quickly found there was no off-the-shelf software. Through CENSIS, we found the expertise we needed at the University of Edinburgh to develop our own technology and bring innovation to what is, broadly speaking, a traditional industry.
“Over the last twelve weeks, we have been able to prove that the concept behind the technology is feasible. Now we will focus on its different elements, train it with data we are now capturing with each visit to a vessel, and begin taking it to a commercial level. We are also exploring the possibility of applying it to drones, which would make the process even safer.
“Finding people with the right skills to help us innovate is tricky for a company of our size – we didn’t have deep learning expertise in house. Without CENSIS’s support, this project would not have happened and we are highly encouraged by the results so far.”
Dr. Hakan Bilen, reader in the School of Informatics at the University of Edinburgh, added: “When researchers were developing AI in the early years, they thought it would easily solve visual tasks that we do effortlessly like recognising digits and estimating waterline and struggle with more complex situations, such as playing a game of chess. However, the opposite has turned out to be the case and it is the seemingly simple tasks that we are still finessing.
“The algorithm we have created for Tymor Marine has been built on the recent advances in deep neural networks. The model takes in a video showing a ship’s hull and identifies where digits on the side of a vessel intersects the water line in a variety of different scenarios. We are continuing to build the database by introducing more manual annotations for training and also to improve various components in the method, which should only make it more accurate in the future.”
Corinne Critchlow-Watton, project manager at CENSIS, said: “It is incredible to think that the worldwide shipping industry still relies on principles developed in ancient Greece for such an important part of how it operates. Machine vision could bring a more accurate, consistent, and safer approach to stability and weight checks for vessels, which can only be hugely positive for the sector.”
LISW23 Headline Conference set to deep dive into shipping’s challenges
London International Shipping Week’s Headline Conference this year is shaping up to be an in-depth dive into global trade and economic security.
Taking place on Wednesday September 13th 2023 at the London headquarters of the International Maritime Organization, the LISW23 Headline Conference will be chaired by LISW veteran Paddy Rodgers and is sponsored by Tsakos Energy Navigation (TEN), which will be celebrating 30 years as a public company.
Taking the central theme of Reframing Risk in a Complex Marketplace, this premier- level conference will feature leaders from throughout the shipping industry alongside prominent international business professionals. Together they will delve into shipping’s macroeconomic environment, considering the energy crisis and the wider geopolitical dynamics which have the potential to de-rail shipping, particularly as it navigates the complex voyage towards decarbonisation.
How does a global industry like shipping evolve to deliver on its environmental commitments and what impact will this have in relation to access to finance and investment? How will contractual and structural norms in the shipping industry evolve as the industry decarbonises? This year’s conference will explore the subject from all angles including any potential unintended consequences.
Shipping is heavily affected by international sanctions, notably those associated with Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. The conference is set to scrutinise the positive and negative impacts of sanctions in relation to shipping, examining the practical compliance risks, the operational risks, and the effectiveness of measures the industry has taken, before identifying how the situation may evolve in the near future.
The focus will naturally flow to innovation as panellists examine the risk of technology and regulation moving out of lockstep or being incompatible. Will macro and market trends impede finance for what are perceived as high-risk projects, potentially disrupting green goals?
In the light of these geopolitical macro challenges, selected shipping industry specialists will investigate what shipping can do to move forward. They’ll dissect: what binds the various industry sectors together?; how does regulation interplay with the marketplace?; what are the implications for investors, insurers, financiers, owners and charterers?; and will greater collaboration reap rewards?
Alongside such detailed scrutiny it is crucial to identify solutions and the Headline Conference will seek to do this. Leaders from a wide cross-section of maritime sectors and global trade will deliver their vision for shipping’s future, taking into consideration geopolitical issues, compliance, security, decarbonisation and innovation. London and the UK’s role in shipping’s future will also be foremost in their discussions.
Jos Standerwick of Maritime London, who chairs the LISW23 Headline Conference working group, commented: “This year’s 10th Anniversary conference is shaping up to be the most compelling yet. The continually unpredictable geopolitical and economic environment has certainly made for interesting times in the market. I am confident this year’s conference will bring together leading figures from inside the industry, including a number of rising stars, as we tackle some of the biggest issues in shipping and provide new perspectives and solutions.”
LISW23 will be held in the week of September 11-15, 2023 and will play host to the maritime world with hundreds of events attracting thousands of international industry decision makers into London during the week. The headline LISW23 Conference will be held on Wednesday September 13th while the LISW23 Gala Dinner will be held on Thursday September 14th.
For further information visit the website: www.londoninternationalshippingweek.com
Survitec doubles operations in Miami to support cruise sector
Global Survival Technology solutions provider Survitec has cut the ribbon on a new customer service centre in Miami, Florida, doubling its operations to facilitate anticipated demand for its award-winning Advanced Evacuation System, Seahaven, which received full classification approval last year.
The new 371m2 facility will also provide round-the-clock sales and service support to cruise ship operators, from one centralised location and with one point of contact.
“Investing in this new facility is very much in support of the industry’s post-pandemic recovery, but we are also preparing the site for the servicing of Seahaven,” said Survitec Chief Executive Officer Robert Kledal (pictured). “Based on increased enquiries, we need an advanced, state-of-the-art sales and servicing site to meet anticipated demand. This will be the primary US hub for servicing Seahaven, the world’s largest inflatable lifeboat.
“The immediate goal is to improve operational efficiencies for the cruise ship owner. By removing their reliance on internal resources and local suppliers, we eliminate their administrative burden, thus reducing the cost of compliance. This way, we improve operational efficiencies and reliability, optimising the way in which owners and operators protect their assets, passengers and crews,” he added.
Miami, the US cruise industry’s home port, is poised for an exceptionally strong season. The Port of Miami welcomed more than 4 million cruise vacationers last year, with analysts predicting an increase this year as more new ships enter service. Thirteen new cruise ships are scheduled to join the world fleet this year, adding to the 20 launched last year and the ten in 2021.
“Our new Miami cruise centre is now open and fully equipped to help operators and crews maintain and service all their vessels’ Marine Evacuation Systems (MES), liferafts, lifejackets and life-saving appliances.
“The cruise sector is expanding with a significant number of newbuilds due to enter service for various brands. With this new facility, we are able to provide our customers with a single, dedicated cruise centre capable of managing all our cruise customers’ safety needs. It truly is a one-stop-shop,” concluded Kledal.
Vega-Reederei to tackle cyber-security with Inmarsat Fleet Secure UTM solution
Inmarsat has secured an agreement with long-standing Fleet Xpress customer Vega-Reederei (Vega) to install Fleet Secure Unified Threat Management (UTM) across the Hamburg-based ship manager’s fleet of existing and newbuild vessels.
The deal represents a proactive move to secure Vega’s fleet against growing cyber threats while achieving regulatory compliance, as the company rejuvenates with four 1,868 TEU eco-consumption newbuilds and plans to add more new ships to expand in the security sensitive European coastal services by 2024.
A 2022 study by Inmarsat and partner Thetius showed almost half of the 200 maritime businesses surveyed reporting that they had suffered a cyber-attack in the previous three years. Three per cent of those attacks resulted in a ransom being paid by the victim to the attacker, at an average cost of $3.1 million. Even without the payment of a direct ransom, the costs to shipping from cyber threats averaged $1.8 million per year over the study period.
Henrik König, Company Security Officer at Vega said: “Although our vessels have not so far fallen victim to cyber-crime, we are aware that both the frequency and severity of network attacks in shipping are growing fast. As our fleet grows, this threat becomes more significant and difficult to manage. Through Fleet Xpress and Fleet Secure UTM, Inmarsat offers the global coverage and cyber-security capabilities required to keep our managed fleet safe from the risks of an increasingly connected maritime industry.”
Fleet Secure UTM is a part of Inmarsat’s wider cyber-security offering available through Fleet Xpress. The solution is a comprehensive suite of network security tools designed to protect the vessel network in its entirety. By intelligently scanning all connected networks for malicious traffic, UTM safeguards against cyber-attacks and intrusion from infected devices. It also provides real-time digital security status updates, allowing users to monitor and mitigate network threats as they arise.
Crucially for ship managers like Vega, the solution is backed by Inmarsat’s dedicated Cyber Security Operations Centre (CSOC), which offers round-the-clock human support in addressing customers’ security concerns. The CSOC deploys a range of industry-leading technologies to monitor and detect threats – including the latest methods of attack – across Inmarsat’s core infrastructure, networks, and services. Any irregular activities are investigated by in-house cyber-security experts.
Scott Middleton, Regional Director North Europe Inmarsat Maritime, said: “With Fleet Secure UTM, Vega meets not only the International Maritime Organization’s 2021 requirements on cyber security but also the expectations of its customers, the owners of its managed vessels, who can now rest assured that their ships are comprehensively protected from cyber threats. We would like to thank our partner, Port-IT for its ongoing support with this project and development of Fleet Secure UTM.”
ZeroNorth enters into new emissions reduction partnerships
Technology company ZeroNorth has today announced it is now partnering with the Global Maritime Forum and is a Mission Ambassador for Mærsk Mc-Kinney Møller Center for Zero Carbon Shipping.
These partnerships highlight ZeroNorth’s role as an active and collaborative organisation that is committed to working together with wider industry stakeholders to reduce barriers to immediate emission reductions.
In its new role as a Global Maritime Forum partner, ZeroNorth is an active member of the organisation’s Short-Term Actions Taskforce, helping to define a new roadmap to driving immediate emissions reductions that can be taken up by shipping companies, including helping to quantify the impact of speed and routing optimisation enabled by ZeroNorth’s vast data ecosystem.
The membership also strengthens ZeroNorth’s commitment to Global Maritime Forum’s Getting to Zero Coalition. Committing more resources to this powerful alliance of organisations across the maritime, energy, infrastructure and finance sectors which is committed to making commercially viable deep sea zero emission vessels powered by zero emission fuels operational by 2030, driving towards full decarbonisation by 2050.
ZeroNorth has also become a Mission Ambassador for the Mærsk Mc-Kinney Møller Center for Zero Carbon Shipping. In this role, ZeroNorth will utilise its deep knowledge on working with data and technology at scale to drive immediate emissions reductions to enable the green transition.
ZeroNorth’s work with the Global Maritime Forum and the Mærsk Mc-Kinney Møller Center for Zero Carbon Shipping builds on its existing partnership with EnergyLEAP to define a standard for noon reporting, and the efforts of ZeroNorth’s Impact Today working group to increase data standardisation across the industry to tackle the fragmentation holding back shipping’s green transition.
Speaking on the two new partnerships, Lora Jakobsen, Chief Purpose Activist, ZeroNorth said: “These new partnerships with the Global Maritime Forum and the Mærsk Mc-Kinney Møller Center for Zero Carbon Shipping demonstrate ZeroNorth’s dedication to driving real impact across the sector.
“The road to net zero may be paved with good intentions, but we have a shared responsibility to match that ambition with action. By forging partnerships, the shipping industry can work together to find solutions to the challenges holding back decarbonisation and collaborate on initiatives that will accelerate the green transition.”
In the spirit of partnerships and bringing the industry together, ZeroNorth is hosting a public event in Copenhagen to commemorate Earth Day. Participants are invited to form a ‘human chain’ along the waterfront, from Toldbolden down to Nyhavn, with industry-leading companies such as Clipper, Ultrabulk, Navigator Gas, Women in Shipping-Worldwide, A.P. Moller Holding, Maersk Tankers, Danske Maritime and Lauritzen Bulkers A/S to signify a joint commitment to the green transition of the maritime industry.
Earth Day is the world’s largest environmental movement with over one billion people from 192 countries coming together to drive initiatives focused on protecting the planet.
KPI OceanConnect appoints Dorthe Bendtsen as Chief Operating Officer
KPI OceanConnect, a leading global marine energy provider, is pleased to announce the promotion of Dorthe Bendtsen to the role of Chief Operating Officer (COO).
Bendtsen, who previously held the position of Head of Corporate Services at KPI OceanConnect, has been an integral part of the company's executive management team for the past 14 years. The promotion is a testament to Bendtsen’s passion for creating a sustainable bunkering industry and her contribution to KPI OceanConnect’s leadership team in recent years. It also demonstrates KPI OceanConnect’s long-standing commitment to diversity, inclusivity and sustainability.
Commenting on the appointment, KPI OceanConnect’s CEO Anders Grønborg said: “Dorthe's extensive experience, expertise and leadership skills will be invaluable as we continue to evolve our organisation to meet the changing needs of our customers. Our focus is firmly on building strong partnerships and adding value to the supply chain for the green transition and on remaining a leader of our industry’s continued digitalization.
“Dorthe has been instrumental in the organisation’s growth and mergers with Global Accounts and OceanConnect Marine. She is able to deliver solutions and insights on a breadth of corporate, legal and governance matters. Apart from ensuring operational excellence and productivity in the COO role, Dorthe will continue to lead our sustainability and ESG strategy, including KPI OceanConnect’s successful diversity and inclusivity efforts.”
Grønborg continued: “We acknowledge our responsibility to promote a more sustainable industry across the supply chain in partnership with our stakeholders. With our new COO, we are making a significant commitment in terms of resources and focus on sustainability, for example by further strengthening our offering of bespoke decarbonisation solutions and expertise. We are committed to sharing knowledge, providing innovative solutions and being a trusted partner in the transition to low-carbon energy. We believe in leading by example and fostering long-term partnerships that add value and benefits to all parties.”
Diversity is also shown to benefit approaches to innovation and sustainability in the shipping industry, which are core values at KPI OceanConnect. The global organisation has a proven track record in this area, having a gender balance of 40% women in the overall workforce and 30% in senior management positions. The company is currently running a Women in Shipping campaign to raise awareness of the many exciting career opportunities that exist for women in the shipping and marine fuel industries.
Bendtsen comments: "I am proud to be part of a dynamic and progressive organisation that rewards hard work, passion and commitment and offers opportunities for both personal development and professional progression. As COO, I look forward to playing a key role in KPI OceanConnect’s future development and success, enhancing our ESG initiatives and sustainability strategy, and delivering exceptional value and service to our business partners together with our great team around the world.”
Innovation Norway funds Alma's zero-emission vessel technology
Innovation Norway has awarded Alma Clean Power AS in Bergen up to 49 million NOK in funding for a project aiming to develop environmental technology that will enable zero-emission ocean-going vessels.
“This is an important project for the green transition with a potential to contribute to the goal of a 50% reduction in emissions in international shipping," says Håkon Haugli, CEO of Innovation Norway.
Alma has several ongoing development projects aimed at more environmentally friendly maritime transportation. The project, which is now receiving partial funding from Innovation Norway, will develop and deliver energy systems based on high-temperature fuel cells for use in ocean-going vessels. The fuel cells will have high efficiency, be built in a compact system and can be used on different types of fuel - ammonia, methanol or other hydrogen carriers.
“The grant from Innovation Norway is crucial for us to be able to carry out a pilot project with customers who will use the solution,” says Bernt Skeie (pictured, centre), CEO of Alma Clean Power AS. “The project will be important to develop Alma's core technology, and to contribute to industrialisation and commercialisation.”
Alma was established in Bergen in 2021 and has created a solid competence environment with 30 employees. A significant certification process must be carried out to obtain approval of the solution for use in ships. The R&D project is planned over three years with a total cost framework of NOK 163 million. The solution will now be tested as a pilot, and if the technology development succeeds, the next phase will be the establishment of a full-scale factory in 2026.
“This project has significant positive environmental effects, potential for value creation in Norway, and an international market potential as a technology that can contribute to zero-emission vessels, says Minister of Fisheries and Ocean Policy Bjørnar Skjæran (pictured, right).
KONGSBERG forms new Kongsberg Discovery business area for Sensors and Robotics
Kongsberg Gruppen (KONGSBERG) is a global leader within advanced robotics and sensor technology to map, monitor and understand ocean space. IN recognition that the ocean is a crucial part of solving global climate, food and security challenges, this technology will become part of a new business area, Kongsberg Discovery.
Until the turn of the year, Sensors and Robotics was a division under Kongsberg Maritime. It is now being separated and established as a separate business area called Kongsberg Discovery. The new business area has more than 1,000 employees located in Horten, Trondheim and Oslo in Norway, in addition to offices in Spain, the UK, the USA, Canada, Singapore and Malaysia.
"The mapping and monitoring of the world's oceans are in an early phase, and we are still at the beginning of the United Nations Decade of Ocean Science for Sustainable Development,” says Geir Håøy, CEO of KONGSBERG. “Together with the rest of KONGSBERG, Kongsberg Discovery can develop new solutions and technology with significant growth opportunities within fisheries, marine research, marine operations, ocean-based energy production and infrastructure monitoring that the world needs."
Kongsberg Discovery will be led by Martin Wien Fjell. He has held several management positions in KONGSBERG over the past 10 years and has since 2017 led Global Customer Support in Kongsberg Maritime.
"I look forward to developing Kongsberg Discovery, the fourth business area in KONGSBERG,” says Fjell. ”Kongsberg Discovery encompass extensive and world-leading technology within hydro acoustics, robotics, inertial navigation, positioning, laser, radar, and communication, blended with deep application know-how and software and by establishing Kongsberg Discovery as a separate business area, our ambition is to facilitate further growth based on this core competency."
In 2022, Kongsberg Discovery delivered revenues of NOK 2.998 billion and reported more than NOK 3.5 billion in order intake. As of the first quarter of 2023, Kongsberg Discovery will report separate financials.
Grimaldi inaugurates new G5 vessel class with delivery of Great Antwerp
The Grimaldi Group has taken delivery of the vessel Great Antwerp at the Hyundai Mipo Dockyard Co. Ltd. in Ulsan, South Korea. This is the first of the six multipurpose ro-ro units commissioned from the Korean company just over two years ago.
The vessel inaugurates a new class called G5, which is the evolution of the G4 ro-ro multipurpose vessels built by the same shipyard and delivered to the Grimaldi Group in 2014 and 2015.
Great Antwerp is named after the city of Antwerp in Belgium, whose port has been served by Grimaldi’s maritime links for decades and which now is the Group’s main hub in Northern Europe.
With length of 250 metres, beam of 38 metres and deadweight of 45,684 tonnes, Great Antwerp’s design is the result of a careful study of the needs of the Group and its customers: thanks to an innovative and completely customized internal configuration, the G5-class ships are able to transport 4,700 linear metres of rolling freight, 2,500 CEU (Car Equivalent Units) and 2,000 TEU (Twenty Foot Equivalent Units). Compared to the previous G4-class, the new vessels have the same capacity for rolling freight while their container capacity doubles.
In addition to loading capacity, Great Antwerp stands out on account of her numerous cutting-edge, technological solutions aimed at increasing energy efficiency and reducing environmental impact. Both the main engine and the auxiliary diesel generators will meet the NOx levels imposed by the Tier III regulation, while the integrated propulsion system between rudder and propeller will minimize vortex losses and, consequently, optimize propulsive efficiency and reduce fuel consumption.
The vessel is designed for cold ironing with shoreside supply of electricity (where available) as a green alternative to the consumption of fossil fuels during port stays. Furthermore, the electrical consumption of on-board machinery (pumps, fans, etc.) is reduced thanks to the installation of variable frequency drive devices, while the application of innovative, low friction paints reduces hull resistance, thus increasing efficiency. The ship is also equipped with hybrid exhaust gas cleaning systems for the abatement of sulphur and particulate emissions.
As proof of her high energy and environmental efficiency, Great Antwerp enables a reduction of CO2 emissions per tonne transported of up to 43% compared to other Grimaldi ro-ro multipurpose ships.
The new vessel will be soon deployed to further enhance the quality of maritime transport services offered by the Grimaldi Group between Northern Europe and West Africa.
The delivery of the new ship was celebrated with a ceremony held this morning in Ulsan. The event was attended, among others, by Hyung-Kwan Kim, President and CEO of Hyundai Mipo Dockyard Co. Ltd, Guido Grimaldi, Deep Sea Commercial & Operations Director of the Grimaldi Group, various managers of the Korean shipyard and of the Neapolitan shipping company and representatives of the main customers with which the latter collaborates on its routes connecting Europe, North and South America and West Africa.
Godmother of the new ship is Sévérine Hajjar, wife of Pierre Hajjar, CEO of Socar Shipping Agencies, one of the Grimaldi Group's main customers for the transport of vehicles between Northern Europe and West Africa.
“The delivery of this ship marks the beginning of a new era for our Group”, said Guido Grimaldi. “After the success of our five G3-class, six G4-class, as well as 10 Eurocargo-class ships, all built by Hyundai Mipo Dockyard Co. Ltd, we now inaugurate a new class of ro-ro multipurpose vessels called ‘G5’.
“This new series of ships responds even more efficiently to the demand for quality transport services on deep sea routes, and to the needs related to the protection of the environment. We are thus taking a further important step within a path undertaken for several years now, aiming to operate on our main routes with a young, modern and eco-sustainable fleet.”
All the G5-class units will be delivered between 2023 and 2024 and deployed on the Grimaldi Group maritime services between Northern Europe and West Africa.
PSA expands cargo solutions network in Türkiye with acquisition of Alisan Logistics
PSA International Pte Ltd (PSA) has through its fully owned subsidiary, PSA-BDP Turkey Supply Chain Solutions Pte Ltd, signed an Agreement to acquire 75% of the shares of privately held ALISAN Logistics A.S. (ALISAN). ALISAN is a logistics company located in Türkiye and active in fast moving consumer goods (FMCG), chemicals, automotive industries and agro business. Upon transaction completion, ALISAN will be grouped under the auspices of PSA’s cargo solutions arm, PSA BDP.
PSA’s Group CEO Mr Tan Chong Meng said, “The PSA Group has been actively collaborating with its stakeholders to offer logistics and supply chain solutions beyond the port. We strongly believe in the long-term growth potential of Türkiye and this investment re-affirms our strategic focus in extending PSA’s network and capabilities to serve cargo owners.
“Leveraging PSA BDP and ALISAN’s combined and complementary strengths, we will offer our partners and customers comprehensive end-to-end contract logistics and transportation service offerings in Türkiye and beyond, to bring us closer to our mission of enabling smoother, more resilient and sustainable trade.”
With this investment, PSA will benefit from ALISAN’s strong presence in Türkiye with its local expertise in contract logistics and domestic distribution; while ALISAN can leverage PSA’s network of deepsea, rail and inland terminals worldwide, affiliated businesses in distriparks, warehouses, logistics and marine services, as well as global expertise in end-to-end supply chain services.
The transaction is subject to formal approvals by the relevant authorities and other customary closing conditions.
NorthStandard opens new headquarters for Asia in Singapore
NorthStandard has opened the doors of the Singapore office that establishes its new headquarters in Asia, located in expanded and fully refurbished premises at the former North address of Springleaf Tower, Anson Road.
Establishment of a single office was marked out as a priority during the merger between North P&I and The Standard Club, given the significance of regional members and the pivotal role of Singapore based service delivery.
NorthStandard’s combined P&I business is considered to be more extensive than any other within the Lion City. The Club has identified continuity of customer relationships as its first priority across the region. The consolidated office is led by David Roberts, former Standard Asia Managing Director and James Moran, former North Director (Singapore).
Roberts, who has been appointed Head of Asia-Pacific, commented: “Singapore’s maritime industries are accustomed to hearing about the benefits of scale, but we are also fully aware that members and brokers put the highest value on the relationships we have with them. We have acted at pace to launch NorthStandard in Singapore to confirm our commitment to continuity of service in Asia delivered by our combined team.”
“The personal contacts and relationships that members value remain firmly in position within the new organisation. Members will also welcome the fact that a far broader service portfolio is available to them within the region than was previously the case through either North or Standard,” added Moran, who was recently confirmed as NorthStandard’s Chief Operating Officer, Asia Pacific/Head of P&I Claims - Asia Pacific. “Service levels will benefit from the combination of resources and inhouse capabilities: arguably, we offer the widest service provision in P&I based in this time zone.”
With expertise in loss prevention, claims, FD&D and underwriting in the region drawing on the skills of in-house lawyers, master mariners and engineers, NorthStandard also hopes to contribute strongly to work on enhancing safety, sustainability and security, in support of Singapore’s maritime sector.
Consolidation in Singapore provides a basis for a regionally led response from NorthStandard to the challenges of decarbonisation, digitalisation, regulation, and recruitment, said Roberts. The Club’s regional specialities include management of the Singapore War Risks Mutual (SWRM) (Singapore’s national war pool) -, Strike & Delay Class cover, a particularly strong position in FD&D, fast-growing owners’ fixed premium lines of business and a dedicated Coastal & Inland Class.
“Diversification provides a strong path for growing the combined business from Singapore,” added Moran. “Both North and Standard Club built their businesses on service excellence, but even in the first months post-merger, we are seeing how - together – NorthStandard is something even better.”
On its launch day, 20 February 2023, S&P Global confirmed that NorthStandard had been given an enhanced ‘A’ rating with stable outlook based on its competitive position, financial strength, 'AAA' capital adequacy and sound balance-sheet risk management.
With over 390 million GT of owned and chartered tonnage on its books, NorthStandard consolidates annual premiums of around US$800 million, employs over 650 people and brings together over 300 years of P&I heritage. For the 2023/24 Policy Year, members of North and Standard Club have renewed into their existing insurance entities, with 2023/24 certificates and documentation retaining Standard Club and North branding. It is anticipated that insurance entities will adopt a common NorthStandard policy from 20 February 2024.
CSC welcomes approval of EU ETS law by EU Parliament
The Cyprus Shipping Chamber welcomes the formal approval of the new EU ETS law yesterday by the European Parliament. The law embraces the calls of European Shipowners through the European Community Shipowners’ Associations (ECSA), to earmark revenues generated by EU ETS allowances, to facilitate the decarbonisation of the shipping industry.
At least 20 million ETS allowances, which correspond to around 2 billion Euro under the current ETS carbon price, will be allocated to maritime projects under the Innovation Fund, for the uptake of research and innovation to facilitate the production of cleaner fuels and the effective energy transition of the maritime sector.
Moreover, the EU Parliament upheld the mandatory pass-through of ETS costs to the commercial operator of the vessel, supporting the “polluter-pays principle”, which was another ECSA proposal and the three year phase-in period for the gradual inclusion of emissions from shipping.
While this development is indeed a groundbreaking achievement for European Shipping, the Chamber strongly supports ECSA’s position, that, it is also essential that the “Net Zero Industry Act” properly recognises the strategic role of shipping in Europe’s security, competitiveness, and autonomy by including the development of dedicated production capacity of renewable fuels of non-biological origin (RFNBOs) in the Act’s definition.
The Chamber is firmly committed to continue contributing, through ECSA, towards the EU’s efforts to accelerate a sustainable and just green transition of the maritime sector.
International Ship Autonomy and Sustainability Summit on course for Nor-Shipping 2023
Nor-Shipping has confirmed that the Fourth International Ship Autonomy and Sustainability Summit will take place as part of Nor-Shipping 2023 on 8 June. The day-long summit, which focuses on the very latest technological, business and regulatory developments, will be held at Nor-Shipping’s newly refurbished Studio NOVA in Lillestrøm.
Organised in cooperation with NFAS (Norwegian Forum for Autonomous Ships) and the European Commission’s Directorate General for Transport (DG MOVE), the summit will provide a detailed overview of the “compelling” commercial opportunity and “growing momentum” for ship autonomy.
It is, notes Nor-Shipping Director Sidsel Norvik, “a unique gathering of global expertise for a subject central to the ongoing evolution of shipping.”
Norvik continues: “The concept of ship autonomy is now maturing. When the idea was launched there were great, and perhaps overly inflated, expectations about a rapid shift, followed by disillusionment when this didn’t materialise. However, we are now seeing commercial applications come to fruition and demonstrate huge potential. We’re at a genuinely exciting stage on the journey, and this summit will explore that – with an up-to-date status of implementation and valuable insights into future applications and possibilities.”
Trond Langemyr, Chair of the Board of NFAS, adds: “The summit will help business leaders understand where ship autonomy is today, and where it can take us tomorrow. This will provide an invaluable platform for decision making when it comes to the future of their own businesses. There are still many misunderstandings around autonomous shipping - both positive and negative - so the summit will work to demystify this, while also demonstrating the huge business growth potential. It’s a fascinating subject and a ‘must attend’ for ambitious industry frontrunners.”
Topics taking centre stage at the summit include: the existing commercial uses of ship autonomy and where the most promising applications are; how autonomy is viewed by the industry and how it also can be used in more conventional ship operations; and an international outlook on competition and cooperation among industry frontrunners.
Panellists are drawn from key countries and regions, including South Korea, Japan, Norway, USA and EU to provide their individual insights. Large industry actors will also share their knowledge and perspectives, with representatives from organisations such as Kongsberg, Hyundai, Ocean Infinity and NYK Group. In addition, several ship operators with concrete projects will discuss the current and more specialized applications of autonomous ship technology, as well as the short-term outlook for use in wider areas of the shipping industry.
“This summit is a unique meeting place for practitioners and policy makers,” says Fotini Ioannidou, Head of the Maritime Safety Unit, DG MOVE. “It is a vital gathering point for sharing expertise and communicating developments, but also for networking and gaining ‘hands-on’ understanding of autonomy’s enormous potential for our industry.”
Nor-Shipping 2023 will feature six themed exhibition halls across a total of 22,500 sq m of space at the Norges Varemesse facility in Lillestrøm, Norway. In addition to the main exhibition and autonomy summit, a range of themed conferences include the first ever Nor-Shipping Offshore Wind and Offshore Aquaculture Conferences, the Second Maritime Hydrogen Conference, and the renowned Ocean Leadership Conference.
Entrance tickets have now been released, with an early-bird discount available prior to 1 May. Included in the price is free use of public transport in Oslo (Zone 1) and between the Lillestrøm exhibition centre, entrance to all the exhibition days, access to the After Work @Aker Brygge social scene in Oslo, and entrance to all Technical Seminars and Blue Talks.
Global Shippers Forum and FIATA call for stronger data governance standards in digital supply chains
Shippers and forwarders organisations are calling for improved standards of data protection and confidentiality in digital trading and booking systems, in a joint statement issued this week.
FIATA, the International Federation of Freight Forwarders Associations, and the Global Shippers Forum (GSF) have jointly issued an agreed Charter for Protection and Governance of Data in International Trade that sets out the minimum arrangements for data security and confidentiality that providers and operators of digital booking and trading platforms should adopt and incorporate in their End-User Agreements (EUAs). Recommendations in the Charter seek to enable a safe and trustworthy environment for conducting business based on a level playing field.
The Charter has been approved by members of both organisations and is believed to be the first declaration of rights for platform users in the trade and logistics sector.
Dr Stéphane Graber, Director General of FIATA notes: “FIATA is committed to enabling the shift of trade from analogue to digital form to increase efficiency and resilience of global supply chains."
He continued: "In this journey, interoperability between platforms and their credibility amongst users are critical for success. This requires clear and fair rules on data exchange to protect confidentiality and ensure trust between stakeholders. FIATA is happy to lead this effort with GSF on the crucial topic of data governance and protection.”
James Hookham, Secretary General of GSF said:
“Digitalisation of international trade and transport paperwork offers huge savings and benefits for all parties in the supply chain, but its storage and processing comes with risks of loss, leakage and unauthorised use that could expose commercially sensitive patterns and trends."
Additionally, he commented that "Our Charter sets out reasonable expectations of the protections that should be in place to respect the ownership of the data, protect its confidentiality and guard against unauthorised access and use”.
NYK upgrades fleet with Orca AI technology to enhance navigation safety and operational efficiency
Orca AI, developer of a unique automated situational awareness platform, has partnered with Nippon Yusen Kabushiki Kaisha (NYK) Group, a leading Japanese shipping and logistics company, to enhance its fleet's safety.
Today, following more than two years of collaboration, the NYK Group confirmed it will install the Orca AI platform across the NYK fleet, which includes bulk carriers, tankers and containerships. This deal further strengthens the relationship between NYK Group and Orca AI.
As one of the world’s leading shipping and transport companies, finding a safety system that could enable and empower NYK’s crews to make better real-time decisions while navigating congested oceans was the aim, according to Captain Jun Nakamura, manager of the autonomous ship team at NYK Group. The company also wanted to develop its understanding of navigational challenges facing the fleet and how they were being managed.
“Orca AI demonstrated that the safety of shipping operations can be improved by automating the task of target detection in low visibility in congested waters,” Capt. Nakamura said. “The platform serves as an automated lookout and recognizes dangerous targets and other vessels that may be overlooked by the human eye, reducing the probability of incidents at sea.”
Mr Yarden Gross, CEO and Co-founder of Orca AI, added: “We are excited to partner with tech leaders such as NYK, deepening our collaboration with the company and supporting its ongoing aim to be a central player in the shipping industry’s digital revolution.”
The partnership began in August 2020 when NYK and MTI Co., Ltd, installed a trial version of Orca AI’s platform on a ship operated by the NYK Group. Since then, the NYK Group and Orca have also completed a successful autonomous voyage trial in congested waters near Japan’s east coast through the Designing the Future of Full Autonomous Ships (DFFAS) consortium, which includes 30 Japanese firms.
The NYK trial – known as the MEGURI2040 Project and supported by the Nippon Foundation – was carried out on Suzaku, a 749 gross tonne autonomous containership fitted with Orca’s artificial intelligence and deep-learning technology. Traveling from Tokyo Bay to the port of Tsumatsusaka in the Ise Bay, the vessel achieved 40 hours of navigation with complete autonomy for about 98% of the voyage.
The vessel automatically carried out 107 collision avoidance maneuvers and avoided up to 500 ships using Orca’s safety navigation system. The platform provided real-time detection, tracking, and range estimation through 18 cameras with panoramic views operating 24/7 in any conditions.
Orca AI’s technology has already captured more than 10 million nautical miles of visual data and its team continues to innovate and develop the platform, including incorporating regulatory compliance such as CII into its interface.
ClassNK releases guidelines for additional fire-fighting measures for containerships
ClassNK has released ‘Guidelines for Additional Fire-fighting Measures for Container Carrier’, which specify requirements for indicating additional fire safety measures on container carriers as a class notation.
With the expansion of logistics and the growth in ship sizes, the characteristics and loading methods of cargo carried by ships have increasingly diversified. To achieve a higher level of safety, efforts are being made to implement additional fire-fighting measures beyond the mandatory requirements of the SOLAS and class rules. In particular, for container carriers engaged in a wide variety of cargo transportation, considerations for the installation of detection and fire-fighting equipment to mitigate fire risks are progressing.
Based on the research of trends related to such equipment, ClassNK has developed ‘Guidelines for Additional Fire-fighting Measures for Container Carrier’ as requirements for evaluation. According to these guidelines, ClassNK is going to grant a notation on the container carrier to indicate the implementation of additional fire safety measures.
Moreover, responding to the recent increase in the transportation of electric vehicles, ClassNK plans to issue guidelines for car carriers that are also implementing additional fire safety measures. ClassNK will continue to work on providing necessary guidance and certification services to support initiatives pursuing further safety.
The guidelines are available to download via ClassNK’s website www.classnk.com for those who have registered for the ClassNK ‘My Page’.
ONE orders two containerised units from Econowind for wind-assist propulsion
Singapore-based Ocean Network Express (ONE) has decided to install two containerised wind assist units on one of its operated container feeder ships before the end of 2023. The 143m, 1036 TEU capacity Kalamazoo is owned by Singapore-based Norse and the wind assist systems will be supplied by the Netherlands-based company, Econowind.
This is one of key initiatives of ONE’s operational cost optimization project cluster called ‘Sapphire + Project’, and it can also contribute to ONE’s Green Strategy, which includes various collaboration and decarbonisation initiatives through actions with ‘lean and agile methodology’.
The two containerised units will be equipped with the latest wing design from Econowind, the ‘VentoFoil’. These have smart suction systems in order to control the airflow around the wing-shaped element ensuring maximal trust per surface area. The 10,5 x 2,8 m VentoFoil units will be able to generate thrust to save up to 400kW of engine power.
ONE, Norse and Econowind have studied wind assisted propulsion together and it is expected to contribute both to the reduction of fuel oil consumption, and it will also have a positive effect over a wide range of operations.
Takashi Kase, Senior Vice President of ONE states: “Reduction of GHG emissions is ONE's top business priority. This first wind assist system utilization will be a great milestone to our goal of achieving net-zero emissions by 2050.”
Sebastian Roed, Director of Norse adds: “Norse is proud to be a partner with ONE and Econowind on this wind assisted propulsion project, targeting greener shipping in the years to come.”
Frank Nieuwenhuis, CEO of Econowind adds: “We are delighted to add ONE to our customer base as the first Asian partner, making a big step in making shipping more sustainable. The more installations we can retrofit, the more data we can attain and learn from. This provides us with solid proof of how wind assisted ship propulsion is reducing emissions per nautical mile and with vessels improving their EEXI / EEDI. This also serves as a justification for the investment; the costs of systems can be covered by the savings generated.”
Report highlights importance of closing gaps to safely scale operating with alternative fuels
The Maritime Technologies Forum (MTF) has today released a report on current gaps in operational management practices and crew training requirements and issued recommendations on how to close those gaps to accelerate safe maritime decarbonisation.
The review identifies the gaps to achieve safe maritime decarbonisation within three existing Conventions / Codes: The International Safety Management (ISM) Code, International Convention on Standards of Training, Certification and Watchkeeping for Seafarers (STCW) and The Maritime Labour Convention (MLC); and makes suitable recommendations to close these gaps. The report also highlights the perceived urgency to close these gaps so that the maritime industry can better prioritise limited resources.
To be able to meet the required decarbonisation targets, all industry-relevant stakeholders should collaborate towards safe adoption of alternative fuels including on key issues in relation to the three regulations that are discussed in this report:
• ISM: Identification of hazards and risks from operation of alternative fuels is essential for the development and implementation of the safety management system, emergency procedures and related maintenance activities.
• STCW: Industry collaboration is needed to address current regulatory uncertainties, insufficiencies within model courses and inconsistent implementation of training. Considering the need for funding the future training course development and delivery, a fraction of future revenues from market-based measures might be earmarked appropriately.
• MLC: Reference to alternative fuels could be made in Part B of the Code and international guidelines which will ensure that the member States will address the relevant requirements in their national legislation.
Commenting on the report, Jun Kohno, Deputy Director-General for Engineering Affairs Maritime Bureau for Japan’s Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism (MLIT), said: “If we are to meet the decarbonisation targets set by IMO, it is important that we continue to work together with industry to address gaps in operational management practices and regulatory schemes. This report spotlights and helps prioritise the changes needed to support the safe and scalable use of alternative fuels in the maritime industry.”
Nick Brown, CEO of Lloyd’s Register which led the study, said: “Understanding the challenges in safely adopting alternative fuels at scale is a critical step to accelerating maritime decarbonisation. This research, led by LR Lead Marine Consultant Yildiz Williams, provides much needed clarity on the hurdles we face as an industry in the safe operation of alternative fuels and the recommendations to overcome those challenges.”
ERMA FIRST issues ‘Alternative Maritime Power: The Key to Greener Ports’ whitepaper
ERMA FIRST, a leading sustainable marine solutions provider, has published a new whitepaper which presents alternative maritime power solutions as the key to greener ports as the regulatory landscape increasingly favours shore power capabilities.
Available to download from the ERMA FIRST website , the new whitepaper – Alternative Maritime Power: The Key to Greener Ports – offers an in-depth review of the environmental and operational benefits of shore power. It outlines the impact of air pollution from ports on local communities and the surrounding environment and the level of pollution generated by vessels at berth, also providing a summary of the rapidly changing regulatory frameworks that require ships and ports to have shore power capabilities.
The paper goes on to discuss shore power as an alternative fuel, highlighting the need for standardisation, the basic architecture required and system variations before introducing ERMA FIRST’s revolutionary shore power solution – BLUE CONNECT.
Interest in Alternative Maritime Power (AMP) – or ‘cold-ironing’ – solutions has continued to gather pace as efforts to reduce emissions remains a top priority for the shipping sector. When at berth and running diesel-fuelled auxiliary engines to power the hotel load, a vessel emits a harmful combination of pollutants. They include carbon dioxide, nitrogen oxides, sulphur oxides and particulate matter – all of which are known to contribute to poor air quality and to have a negative impact on health and the environment.
Dimitris Tsoulos (pictured), BLUE CONNECT Director at ERMA FIRST, said: “Shore power solutions can effectively eliminate exhaust gases, particulate matter and noise as they allow ships to completely shut-down their auxiliary engines and connect to an onshore power supply. To help achieve the industry’s decarbonisation goals and protect local communities and ecosystems, ship owners, managers and ports need to start taking the necessary steps towards ensuring shore power connections are available worldwide.
“The purpose of ERMA FIRST’s new whitepaper is to help present the case for shore power as an alternative fuel and an environmentally efficient solution as regulations continue to tighten, while providing insight into key technical specifications which must be considered.”
Geopolitical tensions and ‘friendshoring’ may redefine global trade patterns, warns Xeneta analyst
Mounting geopolitical tensions, shifting alliances and changes in the flow of foreign investment threaten to gradually remould global trade patterns, says Oslo-based Xeneta.
The ocean and air freight rate benchmarking and intelligence platform points to evidence in the rise of ‘friendshoring’ and evolving freight volumes between key markets to map what may be a “new world order”. China, the US, Vietnam and Russia appear to be some of the key players in a slowly unfolding plot.
“In the aftermath of the US-China trade war, the global pandemic and the invasion of Ukraine, amongst other on-going factors, there’s been renewed focus on supply chain security,” comments Emily Stausbøll (pictured), Market Analyst at Xeneta. “There’s a new appreciation of how easily everyday operations can be disrupted, and the growing geopolitical uncertainty is only exacerbating that.
“As a result, we’re seeing more signs of friendshoring, whereby investments, manufacturing links and facilities are moved to countries that are deemed to be ‘friendly’ – essentially sharing the same values or geopolitical outlooks. This is a gradual process, but we can already see some significant changes in the flow of containerized ocean freight and a real sea change in streams of foreign investment. The impact of this should not be underestimated.”
Xeneta’s analysis reveals some stark developments. Focusing on the US, the last five years have seen a rise of 26% in containerized imports from the Far East. However, of the 12 major economies in the region, China tied with Singapore in recording the lowest growth in these exports, ‘just’ a 7% increase (Hong Kong was the only one of the economies not to grow volume here). That sits in marked contrast to ‘the more friendly’ Vietnam, which saw a growth rate of 156% of containerized trade into the US between 2017 and 2022.
A similar trend emerges in terms of the share of imported volumes. In 2022, 56% of all containerized imports into the US from the Far East came from China. The apparent strength of this figure clouds the reality that this share has actually fallen by 10 percentage points from 2017. Vietnam, on the other hand, has almost doubled its share, from 6% in 2017 to 11% in 2022.
Export data from the first months of 2023, notes Stausbøll, backs up the impression of a trade world in flux.
She explains: “March saw a clear drop in exports from China to the US, with USD 3.6 billion less trade than the year before. However, despite this significant fall, China’s total exports managed an impressive year-on-year growth rate of 15% in March. How? Russia is the obvious answer.
“With their trade possibilities hamstrung by a wave of international sanction restrictions, Russia boosted its exports from China by USD 5.2 billion year-on-year, more than making up for the US shortfall. Exports to South Asian countries also posted strong year-on-year growth for the month.”
Xeneta believes such shifts are far from the end of the story.
“If we look at the IMF’s analysis of foreign direct investment (FDI) flows the movement is crystal clear – in short, we see friendshoring in action,” Stausbøll states.
The International Monetary Fund found that investments by foreign companies into China fell to their lowest level in close to two decades in the second half of 2022. They collapsed by 73% year-on-year, down to USD 42.5 billion. Putting this into context, between the second half of 2020 and first half of 2022, foreign investments averaged USD 160 billion in each half year.
By way of contrast, Vietnam has seen FDIs grow by 61.2% year-on-year across the first three months of 2023, including a 62.1% increase in the number of new foreign-invested projects. The processing and manufacturing sectors attracted the most investment here, accounting for around 75% of the total.
Stausbøll comments: “It takes time to build new production bases and make port infrastructure investments, as we’re seeing in, for example, Vietnam, Cambodia and Singapore, so the impact of investments today won’t be fully appreciated until tomorrow. This implies that the changing trade patterns we’re seeing now could just be the beginning of a far greater realignment.”
She concludes: “Moving forwards, the evidence suggests we’ll see more trade and investment decisions based on geopolitics rather than, say, availability or price. How this progresses, and the speed of change, will be dependent on a range of uncertain factors – not least the escalating tension around Taiwan. So far, Europe has maintained its share of imports from China, with key leaders taking a more conciliatory approach than the US, but another major geopolitical ‘event’ could transform that.
“The only sure thing is change, and friendshoring is bound to influence how that unfolds.”
Orient Marine signs Agency Agreement for Silverstream Technologies’ air lubrication system in Japan
Maritime clean technology leader Silverstream Technologies and Orient Marine Co., Ltd. (Orient Marine) have signed a new Agency Agreement for sales support of the Silverstream® System within Japan, the companies have announced.
The agreement will allow Orient Marine to act as an agent for Silverstream in Japan, providing local representation for marketing and promoting the company’s air lubrication technology to all segments, across both newbuild and retrofit applications.
The move builds on the Memorandum of Understanding signed between Silverstream, Orient Marine and Mitsui & Co. Europe Plc. in July 2022. The MoU was signed to spur uptake of the Silverstream® System within the Japanese ship owning community.
The Agency Agreement will leverage Orient Marine’s extensive market knowledge and reach across Japan’s shipping sector. It will facilitate sales support for the Silverstream® System across the Japanese-owned fleet and with Japanese shipyards for newbuild and retrofit orders.
Orient Marine’s longstanding ties with the Japanese shipping industry, including charterers, owners and shipyards in Japan, will also help to accelerate system uptake, enabling more rapid decarbonisation within the Japanese maritime market.
Speaking on the announcement, Noah Silberschmidt, Founder & CEO, Silverstream Technologies, said: “As we deepen our links with Southeast Asia’s shipping community and its key maritime nations, we need partners that we can rely on to support us with local expertise, industry knowledge and the same first-rate service that the industry associates with Silverstream Technologies.
“This new Agency Agreement with Orient Marine will provide us with a smooth path to engaging with Japan’s key shipowners, yards, ship designers and charterers. We are excited by the opportunity to support more of these key players to embrace the Silverstream® System and to enable them to make progress on their decarbonisation journeys.”
Naoki Shinohara, Executive Vice President, Orient Marine, added: “We are delighted to be able to sign this Agency Agreement with Silverstream Technologies. It builds on the MoU we agreed in July 2022 and will enable us to use our expertise and connections across the Japanese shipping market to propel the uptake of the Silverstream System® to meet a growing need for decarbonisation.”
The agreement comes ahead of a programme of engagement with the Japanese market planned by Silverstream to take place across Spring 2023. In April, Silverstream’s team will travel to Japan and engage with charterers, shipowners and shipyards.
Leadership of ABS Chairman, President and CEO recognised with industry award
ABS Chairman, President and CEO Christopher J. Wiernicki has been awarded the GREEN4SEA Leadership Award recognising his industry leadership and contribution to a more sustainable industry.
Wiernicki, a naval architect and engineer, has more than 35 years of extensive commercial, government and international experience in marine and offshore design, operations, infrastructure and safety management, ports and bunkering, digitalisation, cybersecurity, and the clean energy transition.
He said: “It is my great privilege and, at the same time, a daily challenge to lead a world class organization through a period of rapid and profound change. As the forces of digitalisation, decarbonisation and geopolitics, not to mention the aftermath of a global pandemic, conspire to create a uniquely challenging landscape, leadership has never been more important than it is today.”
GREEN4SEA Managing Editor Apo Belokas said: “We deeply value Mr. Wiernicki’s leadership towards a greener and more sustainable shipping industry. As a truly inspirational leader, Mr. Wiernicki keeps playing a decisive role in delivering net zero for shipping by 2050, supporting the green shipping corridors and clean energy marine hubs which are key priorities for shipping on the path to decarbonisation.”
In a speech outlining his philosophy on leadership and its role in today’s marine and offshore industries, Wiernicki said: “A leader needs to think about today and tomorrow, not about yesterday; it’s essential to look forward and maintain a positive outlook. This is particularly true when you consider shipping’s decarbonisation challenge. The sheer gradient of the curve ahead of us is daunting but together we will get there.
“At the same time, leadership means making a friend of uncertainty and being comfortable with embracing change and the unknown. To do that successfully means working hard, creating opportunities, trusting your intuition, not being afraid to take risks and maintaining resiliency if things go wrong.
“This has never been more true than it is today, when these principles of leadership have been critical to guiding ABS through these early innings of the coming decade of change and setting us up to lead the industry through the clean energy transition.”
World Maritime University and RINA sign MoU for leadership and innovation of maritime future
In recognition of mutual interests in maritime education and research, inspection, certification and consulting engineering multinational RINA has signed a Memorandum of Understanding with the World Maritime University (WMU), the institution established by and for the international maritime community within the UN system.
The MoU is aimed to promote academic, technical, and educational exchange between the two institutions with the aim to inspire leadership and innovation for a sustainable maritime and oceans future.
Cleopatra Doumbia-Henry (pictured, left), President of the WMU, said: “We are pleased to establish a partnership with RINA, an organisation that is committed to ensure an energy transition for the maritime industry. Engagement with the industry is vital for WMU and RINA’s green approach aligns perfectly with our focus on maritime energy and the UN Sustainable Goals. We look forward to a fruitful partnership.”
The MoU, signed this week in Genoa, will present opportunities for field study training exchanges for WMU students, exchange of academic information, and, where appropriate, collaborative research.
“We are delighted to put this MoU in place and see it as a forward-thinking approach for the industry,” adds Paolo Moretti, CEO of RINA Services. “The exchange of information and the education of young engineers are vital for the decarbonisation pathway and innovations for the future. The MoU will help attract talent and further the development of new ideas that will support the maritime industry going forward.
“While the MoU initially runs for a period of five years, we hope that this is the start of a long-term relationship between our two institutions which will benefit the maritime industry at all levels” concludes Moretti.
PSA forms new JV investing in renewable energy in China
PSA has partnered with Beibu-Gulf Port Group (BPG) and COSCO Shipping Group (COSCO) to form a joint venture (JV) company in China’s Guangxi Qinzhou Port District investing in wind and solar energy production.
PSA Group says the JV, with its focus on renewable energy production, is aligned with and will help the Group reach its goal to be net zero by 2050.
PSA, BPG and COSCO are the main shareholders of Beibu-Gulf International Container Terminal, the largest international container port in Guangxi. They share a common vision of developing Beibu-Gulf International Container Terminal into a carbon neutral terminal.
The new JV company will generate and supply clean wind and solar energy to the terminal, and potentially to all other port and logistics establishments in Qinzhou Port. Phase 1 of the JV is expected to be operational by the end of 2023 and has the potential to reduce Beibu-Gulf International Container Terminal’s carbon emissions by up to 70%.
Nor-Shipping announces four finalists for Next Generation Ship Award
Nor-Shipping has revealed the final shortlist for this year’s Next Generation Ship Award, with the winner to be announced on Monday 5 June at Oslo City Hall. The prestigious accolade, now in its tenth year, pits newbuilds, retrofits and conversions against one another, with the title going to the project trailblazing new industry standards for smart, sustainable maritime operations. Organisers say competition this year has been “intense”.
Award President Remi Eriksen, Group President and CEO, DNV, spearheaded this year’s initiative with an expert international jury eventually deciding on a shortlist of three newbuilds and one retrofit.
They are: Misje Eco Bulk’s Misje Vita, built at Colombo Dockyard in Sri Lanka; Terntank’s Hybrid Tankers (pictured), currently under construction in China; Neoline’s Neoliner 136, now being built in Turkey by RMK Marine; and Mitsubishi Corporation’s Pyxis Ocean, which will be retrofitted with innovative wind assist technology under the CHEK project.
Sidsel Norvik, Director, Nor-Shipping, says this year’s entries spanned a “huge spectrum” of vessel types, demonstrating the “ambition of an entire industry targeting cleaner, greener and smarter ways to do business.”
Norvik comments: “From container ships, to bulk carriers, through to ro-ro vessels, ferries and specialist projects such as cable layers, the nominations this year showed how segment after segment is working hard, and innovating brilliantly, to meet sustainability goals. This made for some very tough competition, and lively debate, as entrants were whittled down to just four standout projects.
“The remaining projects could all be worthy winners in their own right and we applaud the owners’ determination to advance the transformation of maritime operations. These vessels are leading the way for the industry and we look forward to revealing which one eventually takes the title of the Nor-Shipping 2023 Next Generation Ship.”
The shortlisted vessels were assessed across the key criteria of energy efficiency, innovation, suitability and flexibility, technology utilisation, safety and security, and environmental sustainability. All types of ship were given equal consideration, regardless of size or segment. To qualify for the award, newbuilds had to be scheduled for delivery within three years of Nor-Shipping 2023, while retrofits and conversions must be undertaken after the original date of the last biennial event scheduled for 2021.
The mix of three newbuilds and one retrofit project is a repeat of the shortlist for the 2022 award, eventually won by Havila Voyages’ coastal cruise ferry Havila Capella. However, unlike 2022, three of the four vessels this year featured wind power, with one utilising it as its main power source.
Each of the competing entries is remarkable in its own right. Misje Vita is a 5,000dwt shortsea bulk carrier, owned by Norway’s Misje Rederi. The vessel has a hybrid propulsion system developed by the owner in co-operation with Wärtsilä, eliminating NOx and offering a 47% reduction in SOx and CO2. The 1,600kW main engine is complemented by a 1,000kW h battery system and shaft generator/motor, with a shore connection enabling emission free port calls.
Swedish operator Terntank’s Hybrid Tanker 15,000dwt newbuildings, now being built in China, will be capable of running on e-methanol where available, feature battery systems and will also boast a suction sail system that could reduce emissions by a further 8%. Mitsubishi Corporation’s 80,926dwt Kamsarmax bulk carrier Pyxis Ocean is the retrofit entry, with a new sail system for the 2017-built ship showcasing BAR Tech’s WindWings Technology. One of the two sails is being funded by the EU as part of the Horizon 2020 Project.
Finally, wind will be the main source of power for the fourth shortlisted candidate, Neoline’s Neoliner 136, which will have 3,000m2 of sail area. The ro-ro vessel, which can also carry containers, is the culmination of a more than a decade long project to build a transatlantic cargo liner powered by wind alone. French shipbuilder Chantiers de l’Atlantique is supplying its SolidSail system. An MGO-fuelled auxiliary engine will also be fitted for port operations and electricity supply.
Nor-Shipping 2023 runs from 6-9 June in Lillestrøm and Oslo. In addition to the main exhibition and the Ocean Leadership Conference, a range of themed conferences include the first ever Nor-Shipping Offshore Wind and Offshore Aquaculture Conferences, the Second Maritime Hydrogen Conference, and the Fourth International Autonomy Summit.
Entrance tickets have now been released, with an early-bird discount available prior to 1 May. Included in the price is free use of public transport in Oslo (Zone 1) and between the Lillestrøm exhibition centre, entrance to all the exhibition days, access to the After Work @Aker Brygge social scene in Oslo, and entrance to all Technical Seminars and Blue Talks.
Grimaldi’s new ‘G5’ multipurpose ro-ro vessel Great Lagos launched
Just a few days after the celebrations for the delivery of the Great Antwerp, the Grimaldi Group's first ‘G5’ class ro-ro multipurpose unit, a new ceremony was held at the Hyundai Mipo Dockyard Co. Ltd. in Ulsan (South Korea) for the launching of her sister ship Great Lagos.
The second G5-class unit is named after the city of Lagos in Nigeria: its port has been served for decades by the Grimaldi Group, which operates there the largest multipurpose ro-ro terminal in West Africa.
The Great Lagos has a length of 250 metres, a beam of 38 metres and deadweight of 45,684 tonnes. Her innovative design combines high loading capacity with great attention to environmental impact: all G5-class ships are able to transport 4,700 linear metres of rolling freight, 2,500 CEU (Car Equivalent Units) and 2,000 TEU (Twenty Foot Equivalent Units). Compared to the previous G4-class, the new vessels have the same capacity for rolling freight while their container capacity doubles.
In spite of her increased capacity, thanks to numerous cutting-edge, technological solutions aimed at increasing energy efficiency, the new vessel is able to reduce CO2 emissions per tonne transported of up to 43% compared to other Grimaldi ro-ro multipurpose ships.
The Great Lagos launching ceremony was attended, among others, by Heung-Won Seo, Senior Executive Vice President of Hyundai Mipo Dockyard Co. Ltd., Guido Grimaldi, Deep Sea Commercial & Operations Director of the Grimaldi Group, various managers of the Korean shipyard and of the Neapolitan shipping company and representatives of the main customers with which the latter collaborates on its routes connecting Europe, West Africa, North and South America.
As proof of the great esteem binding the Group and its most loyal customers, the godmother of the Great Lagos represents an important commercial partner in the transport of vehicles between Northern Europe and West Africa as well as on other routes in the Mediterranean area: this is Chafica Yamine, wife of Antonio Frangie, owner of Frangie Internationale Spedition GmbH.
After her delivery, which is expected this summer, the Great Lagos will be deployed on maritime transport services offered by the Grimaldi Group between Northern Europe and West Africa, in order to further enhance their quality. The other five G5-class units – i.e. the Great Antwerp and the remaining four sister vessels to be delivered between 2023 and 2024 – will also be deployed on the same routes.
Bureau Veritas and Kongsberg launch new capability for digitised machinery maintenance
Bureau Veritas reports that it has taken a significant step forward in the delivery of digitally optimised machinery maintenance with the launch of a new capability that enables its Machinery Maintenance Application (MMA) to connect directly to a vessel operator’s own maintenance management system, K-Fleet from Kongsberg Digital.
This capability allows the vessel operator to directly transfer the required Machinery Maintenance data to Bureau Veritas. The first such connection between BV’s MMA and a vessel owner’s Computerized Maintenance Management System (CMMS) went live on April 3rd, using K-Fleet software from the world-leading technology group, Kongsberg.
Kongsberg Digital has released this connector allowing ship operators to easily push their PMS (Planned Maintenance Survey System) data to BV’s MMA. This enables the first use of this connection by one of the leading Swedish shipping companies, Furetank.
This new connector serves as a communication channel between ship operators and Bureau Veritas. Based on the data, Bureau Veritas can prepare the periodical audits with greater speed and efficiency.
Using this new connector, the vessel’s list of equipment (LOE) is sent with a click and the maintenance report data is pushed automatically from Kongsberg K-Fleet. When the Machinery Maintenance Audit is requested by the vessel operator, the Bureau Veritas Surveyor will log into BV’s Machinery Maintenance Application and generate the maintenance report for the time period in question with the latest data received, ready for review. K-Fleet will then continue to update with new data on a regular time schedule until a new request for annual, occasional or renewal audit is received.
Laurent Hentges, Digital Solutions & Transformation Vice President at Bureau Veritas Marine & Offshore, said: “This is a significant step forward in supporting ship owners, operators and managers with their machinery maintenance requirements. Jointly developed by Bureau Veritas and Kongsberg, it is a great example of how two leading digital solutions can be integrated to meet the needs of vessel operators.
"This collaboration with Kongsberg also highlights our ambition to take advantage of new technology and data exchange to advance the digitalisation to support class surveys, as well as support our clients with their digital transformation.
"Our aim is to replicate this first connection done with Furetank with other ship owners and CMMS. Data acquired will also open the door for data analytics and optimised maintenance models in the future.”
Sanna Tovar, Technical Coordinator at Furetank, said: “We continuously strive towards utilising new technologies and developments which make our ship operation safer and more efficient. The possibility to share the information from the vessels’ PMS directly with Bureau Veritas class surveyors will improve our work towards safer shipping and optimise our onboard surveys as the surveyor can come onboard better prepared, thus allowing the survey to focus on items not already available through the system.”
This new solution builds on BV’s Machinery Maintenance application (MMA) which was launched in 2022. This digital tool connects directly to ship operators’ Computer Machinery Maintenance System (CMMS) and helps them transition to optimised machinery maintenance schemes.
In order to sail safely, all vessels must undergo regular surveys of their machinery equipment and systems. However, most modern ships have more than 300 separate pieces of machinery onboard, each with its own specific maintenance requirements. This poses a challenge for owners, operators, and managers on how to conduct machinery maintenance regularly, but also efficiently.
For normal machinery maintenance scheme, this process is done through an in-person survey of all machinery items by a BV surveyor once every five years, during the renewal survey. But today, a large part of the world’s fleet is using more optimised survey schemes such as Continuous Survey Machinery scheme (CSM) or a Planned Maintenance Survey System (PMS).
Bureau Veritas’ MMA connects the ship operators’ maintenance system with BV’s own system, facilitating the development of a Planned Maintenance Survey System (PMS) plan with online guided booking. It collects data on the maintenance status of all machinery items, manages modifications to onboard equipment, and provides access to manufacturer manuals. This enables ship operators and BV surveyors to get a clear and comprehensive overview of onboard machinery maintenance, efficiently prepare for surveys and assess the machinery maintenance conditions.
First car carrier joins Green Award programme
Car carrier Apollon Leader is the first of its kind to join the Green Award programme. Also, the ship’s owner, Japanese Mitsubishi Ore Transport Co. Ltd., was recently certified, together with its bulk carrier Santa Isabel.
Apollon Leader, built in 2008 and flying the Panama flag, is 199,9 meters long, 32,26 meters wide and can carry 6,341 vehicles. The ship is owned by Japanese Mitsubishi Ore Transport and operated by NYK Line.
In 2019 the Green Award Foundation added Roll-on/Roll-off cargo ships as the eighth type of seagoing ships to its certification programme. The requirements for this type of ship are mainly aligned with all other ship types available for certification, but extra attention is given for fire safety, cargo operations and ship stability.
“We consider this to be a recognition of the high level of quality of our ship management, but we do not see this certification as the goal,” Mr. Kazuo Ogasawara, President of Mitsubishi Ore Transport states. “We will act quickly to further evolve our standards and strive to establish safe navigation at the top level in the industry.”
“We’re very pleased to welcome Mitsubishi Ore Transport and both the ships to the Green Award family,’’ says Green Award’s Executive Director Mr. Jan Fransen. “The entering of the Apollon Leader into our programme is a highlight as it is the first time we’ve certified a vehicles carrier.”
Green Award is a world-wide recognized quality mark for ships and their owners that exceed the applicable standards in the field of safety, quality, and environmental performance in the maritime industry. The quality mark is awarded by the Green Award Foundation after a voluntary audit and survey. Green Award certificate holders are the front-runners of the maritime industry that strive for excellence.
Panama’s Sea Tripartite Table ends with consensus of Government, Seafarers and Shipowners
The Panama Maritime Authority (AMP) reports that after as many as one hundred meetings held with the maritime, port and logistic sectors of the country, the consultation process held by the Sea Tripartite Table (METRIMAR), has ended, with the participation of representatives from the government, workers and employers.
AMP says the process highlighted the principles of social dialogue, in a spirit of transparency, respect and collaboration environment, on the adoption of new legislation to be applied onboard all merchant ships of Panamanian flag, navigating the interior waters and to the ships of commercial fishing and Panamanian flag navigating in interior and international waters.
METRIMAR foresees the adoption of a new and strong labour law that after being under a wide tripartite consultation process must be sent by the AMP to the Ministry of the Presidency, and afterwards, to the National Assembly of Panama.
During 2020, the General Directorate of Seafarers (DGGM) of the AMP performed thorough drafting of a proposal document of 288 articles that was presented to start the work in the table in May, 2021, starting METRIMAR. During 2021, METRIMAR discussed and agreed the part of the project dedicated to merchant ships of interior service.
Between February and August 2022, METRIMAR was paused, during which the School of Social Dialogue, Tripartism and Conflict Resolution (E-DISTREC) of the University of Panama (UP), serving as moderator and facilitator, reviewed with the DGGM all the material agreed up to that point and made a compendium of all the articles approved to unify the project regarding the part regulating labour onboard merchant ships of interior service.
METRIMAR has had the active participation of the following sectors:
• Government, represented by the AMP, the Ministry of Labour and Labour Development (MITRADEL) and the Panama Authority of Water Resources (ARAP).
• Employers, represented by the National Council of Private Business (CONEP) through the Panama Maritime Chamber (CMP) and the National Chamber of Fishery and Aquaculture of Panama (CNPA).
• Workers, represented by the National Council of Organized Workers (CONATO) and the National Confederation of the Independent Union Unity (CONUSI).
• The Panamanian Association of Marine Officers (APOM) and the National College of Seafarers (CONAGEMAR).
Proman Stena Bulk successfully completes US Gulf Coast’s first barge-to-ship methanol bunkering
Proman Stena Bulk, the joint venture between leading tanker company Stena Bulk and methanol producer Proman, has announced the successful completion of the first ever barge-to-ship methanol bunkering on the US Gulf Coast.
The JV tankers Stena Pro Marine and Stena Prosperous were refuelled with methanol via barge while discharging clean petroleum products at a terminal in the Port of Houston in the first week of April.
Stena Pro Marine was bunkered with 1,408MT of methanol, and Stena Prosperous was refuelled with 1,203MT during the operation. Both ships were time-chartered to a global trading house at the time of the refuelling.
The barge bunkering operation was conducted jointly with Kirby Corporation, the largest tanker barge provider in the United States. The ability to refuel both vessels with methanol whilst they were alongside demonstrates the ease and minimal infrastructure requirements associated with methanol as a marine fuel, as well as its widespread availability.
Speaking on the announcement, Anita Gajadhar, Executive Director, Marketing, Logistics and Shipping, Proman, said: “Completing the first barge-to-ship methanol bunkering on the US Gulf Coast is a tremendous achievement for the Proman Stena Bulk joint venture. The Port of Houston is a major global cargo hub with significant latent methanol storage capacity. These qualities made it a natural testbed for our first US ship-to-ship bunkering.
“Proman Stena Bulk continues to work with partners across the supply chain to develop methanol bunkering facilities worldwide and at key strategic bunker hubs. Announcements like today’s continue to prove the viability of the methanol marine fuel supply chain.”
“Kirby was pleased to be the service provider for this job,” said Kirby Marine Group President Christian O’Neil. “It was a natural for us: we have extensive expertise with methanol as a cargo, with conventional bunkering, and with barge-to-ship lightering of all manner of products. We are committed to remaining a leader in energy transportation, regardless of the form that energy takes. We look forward to doing this again and again in Houston and beyond.”
Methanol is widely available in the Port of Houston, which is the United States’ busiest port in terms of foreign tonnage. Thanks to the presence of major petrochemicals hubs and significant storage capacity, more than 275,000MT of methanol is available at the port.
The landmark first bunkering supports wider efforts by US ports and shipping companies to make the industry more sustainable. The Port of Houston aims to become carbon neutral in the next 30 years. A key pillar of the port’s strategy is the deployment of alternative fuels and clean energy sources.
The bunkering also supports U.S. commitments to cut methane emissions by 30% by 2030 under the Global Methane Pledge, which was announced at the COP26 climate summit in 2021. Methanol as a marine fuel clearly supports the ambitions of the pledge to cut back on methane emissions across the energy value chain in the near term.
Currently available conventional methanol, produced from natural gas, virtually eliminates SOx and particulate matter, cuts NOx by 80%, and reduces tank-to-wake CO2 emissions from the vessel’s commercial operations by up to 15% compared to conventional marine fuels. By using methanol, the joint venture vessels are futureproofed against every incoming emissions target, as greater quantities of low-carbon and green methanol become available for blending and bunkering in the near future.
Production of green methanol from sustainable sources such as sustainable bio-mass or renewable energy is growing and highly scalable. Proman is investing in its own low-carbon and green methanol production capabilities, including a new 100,000 tonne per year methanol facility in development in North America. The project is currently being constructed with a target start of operations in 2025. The facility will produce bio-methanol from non-recyclable forestry residues and municipal solid waste and will substantially contribute to the circular economy.
The news of this first US Gulf methanol barge-to-ship bunkering comes ahead of the naming ceremony for Stena Promise in the Port of Rotterdam. Rotterdam was the site of Proman Stena Bulk’s first barge-to-ship methanol bunkering, in August 2022, when Stena Pro Patria took on the fuel during a regularly scheduled port call.
Strategic Marine commissions study to evaluate energy and emissions profiles of CTVs
Singapore-based boat builder Strategic Marine has commissioned a study to compare the efficiency of traditional diesel-powered and hybrid-powered crew transfer vessels (CTVs).
The study, to be conducted by the Maritime Energy and Sustainable Development Centre of Excellence (MESD CoE) at Nanyang Technological University, Singapore (NTU Singapore), aims to help the company expand its knowledge and expertise of sustainable solutions for the sector.
Jointly funded by the Singapore Maritime Institute (SMI) and NTU, MESD CoE works to support Singapore’s strategic maritime needs through research and capacity development.
Chan Eng Yew, Chief Executive Officer, Strategic Marine said: " We are happy to bring our expertise in building specialised vessels for offshore crew supply to support MESD CoE's work in sustainable solutions through this partnership.”
Associate Professor Jasmine Lam, Centre Director, MESD CoE, NTU Singapore, said: “We are honoured that Strategic Marine has chosen MESD CoE to conduct this study, demonstrating their commitment to knowledge and the promotion of sustainable solutions. We are pleased to support our maritime community as it transits towards a low-carbon future.”
The commissioned study will assess the difference in energy and emissions profiles between the company-built diesel-powered and hybrid-powered CTV. Researchers will conduct joint sea trials with Strategic Marine to collect the CTVs’ operational data. It will adopt established MESD CoE's methods for fuel consumption and emission assessments across varying speeds, profiles, and distances.
Strategic Marine believes that the study will serve as a valuable benchmark for shipowners to evaluate their fleet's energy and emissions performance across various operational profiles. This will translate into informed decisions when selecting alternative low-carbon energy fleets that meet green regulatory requirements.
Strategic Marine is well known for its capacity to develop and build hybrid CTVs, particularly in the offshore windfarm sector. Its latest success includes deals for firm contracts, and options to build 10 hybrid CTVs for UK-based offshore vessel owner-operator HST Marine.
Mr Chan said: "Our hybrid vessels adopting technology that will help reduce maritime industry greenhouse gas emissions are gaining popularity, and we are glad that they can also contribute to research on sustainability solutions for the industry."
Strategic Marine provides service and maintenance, fabrication and engineering, marine logistics services, financial services, and solutions for its products – providing a complete turnkey, asset lifecycle solution for its clients.
Connectivity has transformed crewing says Danica as it celebrates 10 years of business
Global connectivity has transformed the crewing marketplace over the past decade, enabling the best seafarers to find job opportunities at their fingertips and giving them more employment choices, says Danica Crewing Specialists as it celebrates 10 years in business.
Outlining the changes he has seen over the past 10 years, Danica CEO Henrik Jensen (pictured) highlighted access to the internet as a significant development which has made the crewing world more transparent and enabled seafarers to consider a range of worldwide employment opportunities.
In addition, he reported that today’s qualified seafarers are vetting the shipping companies they work for, choosing on the basis of business ethics and environmental credentials in addition to employment conditions and work-life balance.
As Danica launched its birthday celebrations, Mr Jensen commented: “Society has moved on a lot over the past ten years and the competition for recruiting and retaining top talent has become even stronger. The best seafarers are in a position to choose which contracts they accept and have become much more selective in which companies they want to work for.”
He continued: “During the past 10 years the internet has had a huge impact on recruitment and retention. Today all manning agencies, crew managers and shipping companies advertise their vacancies online with joining dates, wages and benefits. This has made the employment market fully transparent.
“Previously a seafarer needed to attend several manning offices or make a lot of telephone calls to get a full understanding of what employment conditions they could get – now they can collect that intelligence in just a couple hours surfing on the internet. This makes the employment market much more competitive,” he explained.
Having the internet available to crew while at sea has transformed the lives of seafarers, advised Mr Jensen, himself a former ships’ Captain: “Finally, we have the internet readily available onboard most ships. I think that is very important, not only for the well-being and convenience of the seafarers who can now stay in contact with their families, but also it takes away a lot of the isolation while away at sea.
“Seafarers can now follow all news and events the same as the rest of us, and I think this really adds value to their awareness and personal situation. In the past seafarers were at risk of developing a sense of rootlessness. They were onboard a vessel for a period, then shifted to shore for a limited time, then on to a new ship, and the patten continued. For some this created a feeling of not belonging anywhere. Internet connectivity at sea enables them to feel part of wider society and to stay in touch with their family and friends on a real-time basis, which is hugely beneficial to their mental health.”
In addition, he observed: “Online connectivity is a useful tool to reach out to crew. Danica has been using social media for recruitment for more than five years now and we find it is a successful tool for reaching seafarers at sea and on shore, of all ranks and ages but particularly young aspiring ones.”
He also stressed the importance of timely contract renewal and speedy decision-making when recruiting and retaining talent. “With a world of vacancies accessible on their screens, seafarers can ensure they secure good quality work when they need it so if you want to retain competent crew then sign them up for their next posting before their current one ends, as uncertainty can lead to them being snapped up by someone else,” he advised.
The global nature of shipping, combined with the necessity to adapt crewing strategies during the Covid-19 pandemic, has changed the way ship owners approach their crewing needs today. Mr Jensen predicts a move to a much more diversified crew sourcing strategy to reduce risk and ensure a strong talent pool.
“Many owners have been sticking to two to three crew nationalities but that will change in the wake of the problems presented by the Covid lockdowns, particularly in the Philippines, and the turbulence caused by the war in Europe. Over the coming years owners will be looking to add more nationalities to their crew pools to mitigate such risks and also to ensure sufficient quality talent,” he predicted.
In response to the evolving crewing marketplace, Danica Crewing Specialists has grown significantly from its origins in Odesa, Ukraine. The Hamburg-headquartered company now spans eastern Europe, India and the Far East, giving it access to a crew pool of more than 70,000 seafarers. It has also opened a new operational centre in Cyprus and has further expansion plans in the pipeline.
“These past ten years have been fast-moving and the next decade looks set to flash by even quicker. At Danica we plan to keep adapting and evolving – using all the latest tools available to stay in touch with our shipowners and our growing pool of talented crew.”
Berge Bulk and ABS join forces to retrofit bulk carrier with methanol power
A pioneering joint development project (JDP) to evaluate the feasibility of converting a bulk vessel to methanol fuel propulsion has been signed by ABS and Berge Bulk (BB).
Berge Bulk CEO James Marshall and ABS Vice President of Global Sustainability Panos Koutsourakis signed the agreement which will see BB and ABS explore the possibility of retrofitting the 300-metre-long heavy fuel oil propelled bulk carrier BERGE MAUNA KEA to operate on methanol fuel.
The six-month study is underway, and the two companies will collaborate on a broad range of subjects from the availability of methanol fuel and practicalities of bunkering to the review of technical and economic aspects of the conversion.
The project represents a significant step forward in the development of methanol as a marine fuel and underscores the growing momentum of the clean energy transition in the shipping industry. One of the key benefits of methanol as a marine fuel is its low emissions profile. Compared to traditional marine fuels, methanol emits significantly lower levels of sulphur oxide (SOx), nitrogen oxide (NOx), and particulate matter.
“Retrofitting alternative fuel capability to the global fleet is going to be critical if we are to achieve our sustainability goals,” said Christopher J. Wiernicki, ABS Chairman, President and CEO. “This JDP is blazing a trail that many other vessels will ultimately have to travel as operators look to manage their decarbonisation trajectories over a vessel’s lifespan.
“Methanol is increasingly being recognized as a compelling alternative pathway for owners and operators. With practical benefits related to ease of storage and handling, tank-to-wake carbon intensity reduction, as well as a pathway to carbon neutrality through green methanol, methanol presents an immediate and promising solution.”
“Berge Bulk is committed to our target of achieving net zero carbon by 2025,” said James Marshall, CEO of Berge Bulk. “We see methanol as one of the solutions towards these ongoing decarbonisation efforts. Existing technologies are available to convert methanol for use in our engines, whilst there are also procedures for bunkering of methanol and its use onboard.
“As a leader in this industry, we are confident that this collaboration with ABS will accelerate our efforts towards zero carbon in this energy transition journey.”
The BERGE MAUNA KEA is a 210,000t dwt bulk carrier, currently under construction at the Nihon Shipyard in Japan. Delivery is expected in mid-2024.
Ultratank signs a long-term contract with Seaber
Seaber.io, the Finnish maritime technology company, has announced a partnership with chemical bulk operator Ultratank. The Seaber solution will help Ultratank reach its environmental goals while increasing profitability: Ultratank is committed to reducing its emissions with 40% per cargo ton-mile by 2030 compared to 2008 levels.
Ultratank is a part of the large and diversified shipping group Ultranav, which like Seaber is a part of the Call to Action for shipping decarbonisation launched by the Global Maritime Forum.
The contract with Ultratank is a major milestone for Seaber. Expanding its client base within the tanker industry is another step towards helping the tanker industry improve its schedule planning and optimise its operations.
Initial results show that Seaber’s planning and schedule optimisation solution saves Ultratank 3% in operating costs, which amounts to 7,500 tons of CO2 annually. Cost-saving estimations are up to 5 % in the future.
Seaber’s AI-assisted planning solution is revolutionising the tanker and bulker shipping industry. The web-based application is designed for both cargo owners and shipowners, allowing them to maximise efficiencies in planning and schedule optimisation and communications.
Seaber’s technology is the first solution targeted at increasing efficiencies for bulkers and tankers on such a wide scale, making it uniquely positioned to reduce the sector’s environmental impact.
“With supply being very tight, optimising our fleet is extremely relevant. Seaber will be a helpful tool to support our scheduling process, save bunkers and most importantly CO2 emissions. We are happy to partner up with Seaber to help us reach our environmental goals,” says Michel Polette, Chartering Manager WCA at Ultratank.
At Seaber this partnership has been warmly welcomed. “Ultratank shares our aspirations of being an environmentally friendly company,” explains Sebastian Sjöberg, CEO and Co-founder of Seaber.
“What they can achieve with Seaber’s software solution is only a start. We are excited to be selected by Ultratank and are looking forward to a close cooperation with their team.”
Marlink signs strategic partnership with NORMA Cyber to further enhance cyber protection of maritime industry
Smart network and ICT solutions company Marlink has signed a strategic agreement with NORMA Cyber to strengthen the cyber security intelligence and resilience of its maritime customer base.
The Norwegian Maritime Cyber Resilience Centre (NORMA Cyber) is a joint venture between risk insurance provider Den Norske Krigsforsikring for Skib (DNK) and the Norwegian Shipowners’ Association. NORMA Cyber provides centralised cyber security services to Norwegian shipowners and other entities and aims to be the leading hub for operational cyber security efforts within the national maritime sector. NORMA Cyber’s member base consists of 420 Norwegian shipowners and operators controlling 3,400 vessels, drilling rigs and other mobile units.
Marlink is the first vendor of its type to partner with NORMA to provide a complementary service towards their mutual customer base. Combining the NORMA Cyber knowledge hub with its own cyber security portfolio, Marlink can offer an additional layer of cyber expertise designed to government graded specifications. Marlink’s suite of cyber solutions is designed to offer protection across multiple threat vectors. Its Endpoint Security solution blocks unauthorised data from entering onboard ship systems, enabling users to send and receive only approved data for each network component.
Its Unified Threat Management (UTM) service provides policies and rules at a network level segregating traffic and using advanced firewall settings to protect communications channels across a combination of networks, securing crew and business traffic.
Marlink CyberGuard Threat Detection, already installed onboard more than 1,000 vessels globally, enables ship operators to ramp up their analysis and response to cyber threats and ensures compliance with latest regulations and quality systems.
“Partnerships are vital to successful cyber security and our organisation is built on the belief that it is crucial to share information and collaborate to help our members and stakeholders defend against ever-evolving threats,” said Lars Benjamin Vold, Managing Director, NORMA Cyber. “We are truly grateful to have Marlink joining as one of the very first Maritime Vendor Members of NORMA. Our expertise is within understanding the threats that are of greatest interest to Marlink customers, and we see mutual benefit to this collaboration among all our stakeholders.”
“NORMA Cyber is the leading provider of cyber knowledge, insight and threat intelligence in the Norwegian maritime cluster and perfectly complements our provision of network and shipboard tools to address cyber threats,” said Nicolas Furgé, President Digital, Marlink. “The combination of knowledge gathered from the wider maritime cluster and that gained over many years of operations will provide tangible benefits to Marlink customers.”
OrbitMI’s new Chief Strategy Officer Jess Hurwitz putting users first in push for digital innovation
Digital innovator and business entrepreneur Jess Hurwitz is championing “meaningful solutions” to transform maritime operations by catering to the needs of end-users in his new role as Chief Strategy Officer of OrbitMI, a NYC-based SaaS (software as a service) company with a mission to help each voyage become more profitable, safer for seafarers and less damaging to the planet.
Best known for being a growth architect and digital solutionist, Hurwitz has held many executive positions during a diverse 35-year career, but he developed his expertise in maritime during a 12-year stint as EVP of global sales & marketing and CTO managing FleetWeather Ocean Services and Accuritas Global Solutions, and working with hundreds of shipowners, fleet operators, charterers, and pool managers worldwide.
He has remained connected with the industry as a recent four-year board member of the Connecticut Maritime Association (CMA). He is also an active member of many industry organizations including the Women’s International Shipping & Trading Association (WISTA) as one of its early and longtime male members and proud supporters.
Hurwitz explains his decision to join OrbitMI as its first CSO was motivated by his view that it is “one of the few companies with the ability and potential to have a significant impact on the shipping industry over the next few years”.
“There is a lot of great technology and innovation out there, but there is a need for greater interaction with end-users to understand their daily challenges so that technology can truly transform how work is done to drive industry decarbonization and operational efficiency,” he says. “Building understanding and gaining trust with clients is key to developing new solutions that can help them perform more effectively and make a difference to their operations.”
This is being achieved, says Hurwitz, by integrating multiple APIs from diverse software vendors into the Orbit suite of maritime solutions to form highly efficient intelligent connected workflows.
“OrbitMI is taking a different approach by embracing collaboration and forging partnerships with providers of well-known industry applications to generate value for both individual users and their company as a whole. Its flexible plug-and-play solutions also work well with existing systems, eliminating the need for new hardware and rapid changes in the environment.”
OrbitMI chief executive Ali Riaz says: “Jess has amassed a wealth of experience across different industries and his expertise straddling business and technology will be invaluable in navigating our path forward towards further growth. We are delighted to have him onboard.”
Hurwitz says: “I am honoured and excited to join such an intelligent, dedicated and innovative group of people at OrbitMI, and proud to be part of its world-class management team. Together with our partners, we are thinking differently to create great solutions that bring real change to our industry. We start with trust and true commitment to helping our clients succeed and then let the technology do the rest.”
FSO SAFER: IMO issues urgent call for equipment for oil spill contingency plan
IMO is urging Member States to contribute equipment to help UN-led efforts to prevent a possible catastrophic oil spill from the FSO SAFER, an ageing and rapidly decaying floating storage offshore (FSO) unit moored 4.8 nautical miles off the Red Sea coast of Yemen. IMO is seeking used or near end-of-life spill response equipment that can be transported to the region within weeks.
IMO is urging Member States to contribute equipment to help UN-led efforts to prevent a possible catastrophic oil spill from the FSO SAFER, an ageing and rapidly decaying floating storage offshore (FSO) unit moored 4.8 nautical miles off the Red Sea coast of Yemen. IMO is providing expertise in oil spill preparedness and response as part of the contingency planning for a possible oil spill from the FSO SAFER, in line with its mandate set out in the International Convention on Oil Pollution Preparedness, Response and Co-operation (OPRC).
A converted super tanker, the FSO SAFER contains an estimated 150,000 metric tonnes (approximately 1.1 million barrels) of crude oil, four times the amount spilled during the Exxon Valdez incident in 1989. It has been moored at Ras Isa since 1988 where it had been receiving, storing and exporting crude oil flowing from the Marib oil fields. But in 2015, due to the war in Yemen, production, offloading and maintenance operations on the FSO SAFER were suspended.
FSO SAFER has not been inspected since then, but all assessments of its structural integrity suggest it has now deteriorated to the extent that it is beyond repair, and at imminent risk of breaking up or exploding. The danger is of a significant oil spill that would surpass Yemen’s capacity and resources to effectively respond.
On 9 March, the UN Development Programme (UNDP) signed an agreement to purchase a very large crude carrier (VLCC), the Nautica, to take on the oil from the FSO SAFER by emergency ship-to-ship transfer. Such operations are complex and inherently risky.
The Nautica left Zhousha in China on 6 April and is expected to arrive in the Red Sea in early May.
Contingency planning for the transfer operation is, therefore, intensifying. One critical gap identified in Yemen’s preparedness to respond to an oil spill is the lack of specialized equipment within the country.
Because of lengthy lead times for the manufacture and acquisition of oil spill response equipment, IMO is seeking contributions of used or near end-of-life spill response equipment that can be transported to the region within weeks.
An indicative list of the required equipment annexed to Circular Letter No.4714 includes items for the containment and recovery and the resource protection aspects of the operation, such as booms to contain any spill and oil skimmer brushes, as well as oil dispersants and rapid erection, self-standing storage tanks.
Information on who to contact with expressions of interest, or for additional information, can be found here.
An oil spill from the FSO SAFER would be a major humanitarian and environmental disaster likely to heavily impact the north-western coastline of Yemen, including the Yemeni Islands in the Red Sea, and Kamaran Island in particular - an area that encompasses vulnerable ecosystems. There is also potential for oil to drift and impact neighbouring countries, including Djibouti, Eritrea and Saudi Arabia.
Many Yemeni coastal communities that could be affected already rely on humanitarian aid to meet their basic needs, and a significant oil spill would seriously impact on the health and livelihoods of the people relying on resources from the sea. It could also severely disrupt operations at Yemen’s Hudaydah port, the point of entry for essential imported food, fuel and life-saving supplies. UNDP estimates the cost of clean-up alone would be $20 billion.
Port of Antwerp’s largest containership record set to topple three times in a month
Less than a week after 24,116 TEU container ship MSC Tessa became the first ship over 24,000 TEU in capacity to call Port of Antwerp-Bruges on 20 April, the 24,118 TEU OOCL Spain is set to wrest the title of largest boxship caller at the port on April 26.
That record will only stand for a month because around 26 May the 24,346 TEU MSC Loreto is due to sail into Antwerp.
MSC Loreto is not only the largest ship ever to call at the port, it is also currently the largest container ship in the world, a title it shares with its sister ship MSC Irina.
ABS launches industry-first Green Shipping Corridors Simulation service
In a world first, ABS has launched a pioneering new Green Shipping Corridors Simulation service designed to support international design and development of clean energy initiatives.
The advanced modelling capability provides a detailed simulation of the complex nexus of stakeholders involved in corridor development, providing the data required to support policy and investment decisions.
“Green shipping corridors will be at the heart of any successful movement to decarbonize our industry. But these initiatives require advanced analysis beginning at the pre-feasibility stage through the full lifecycle of corridor development.,” said Christopher Wiernicki, ABS Chairman, President and CEO.
“With assets and operations from multiple stakeholders and a wide range of operational, policy, and regulatory issues to consider, simulation and optimisation tools are ideal for providing critical analysis that accounts for uncertainties of the many variables affecting corridor design.
“ABS’ simulation technology offers the fidelity of a digital twin, or digital sandbox if you prefer, shaping key decisions across the entire range of stakeholders by evaluating a range of transition path options and alternative future fuel scenarios to determine the best approach for a specific corridor. This includes macro-level corridor design issues with the stakeholder coalition and stakeholder-specific decisions by fuel suppliers, port authorities and terminal operations, vessel owners and operators, and cargo owners and shippers.”
Complementing the modelling and simulation service is a new ABS publication, ‘An Approach to Green Shipping Corridor Modeling and Optimization’, exploring two green shipping corridor case studies: the Singapore-Rotterdam containership initiative and the Australia-Japan iron ore bulk carrier proposal.
“Computer-based modelling and simulation is one of the most effective methods to address system complexities, and ABS is leveraging our extensive capabilities in advanced optimization and modelling to support clients and industry stakeholders to accurately evaluate the performance of potential green corridors,” said Dr. Gu Hai, ABS Vice President and the Head of ABS’ Global Simulation Center based in Singapore.
The outcomes of the studies provide a common model for data-driven decision making. The model is capable of generating a broad range of rich data including fleet fuel mix, newbuilding vessel investment needs, annualised port investments, fuel demand prediction in specific ports, fuel storage requirements at specific ports, and year-over-year fuel procurement for port bunkering stations and more.
Coastal Sustainability Alliance welcomes 11 new members
Singapore’s Coastal Sustainability Alliance (CSA), an industry collaborative effort led by Kuok Maritime, has formalised the addition of 11 new members today at Singapore Maritime Week 2023’s MarineTech Conference, graced by Guest of Honour Mr Chee Hong Tat, Senior Minister of State, Ministry of Finance & Ministry of Transport.
The contributions from the new members will accelerate CSA’s efforts to electrify, digitalise and decarbonise Singapore’s coastal vessels, strengthen marine supply chains and build Singapore’s next-generation maritime ecosystem.
The new CSA members include Ampotech, Columbia Ship Management Singapore, Green COP, Ken Energy, RMS Marine & Offshore Service, M1, MagicPort, Singapore Institute of Technology (SIT), Sinwa Singapore, ST Engineering, and Swift Total Logistics. This brings the CSA to 18 members since its formation in March 2022.
Collectively, CSA’s strategies actively contribute to the goals set out by the Maritime and Port Authority of Singapore (MPA) to achieve net-zero emissions by 2050. The Alliance is also working closely with the MPA to comply with regulatory requirements and infrastructure standards to ensure compatibility and support a collaborative maritime culture and ecosystem.
Mr Tan Thai Yong, Chief Executive Officer, PaxOcean and Chairperson, CSA Council, said: “We are excited to mark the Coastal Sustainability Alliance’s first anniversary with the addition of 11 new members and to advance our efforts to electrify and build Singapore’s next-generation coastal ecosystem conclusively. In this one year, we have reached a significant milestone in the commercialisation of our PXO electric supply vessel (pictured), which will be the first and largest local design-build-and-deployed boats to be in operation in Singapore.
“Such achievements are only possible through the united efforts of our current and new CSA members and with the strong support of the Maritime and Port Authority of Singapore, Enterprise Singapore, and Workforce Singapore.”
Mr Teo Eng Dih, Chief Executive, Maritime and Port Authority of Singapore, said: “Maritime decarbonisation requires the collective efforts of the entire value chain. It is heartening to know that 11 new members have joined the Coastal Sustainability Alliance on the journey to achieve net-zero emissions for the sector by 2050. We will continue to work with like-minded partners such as the Coastal Sustainability Alliance on the design and development of green solutions for the domestic maritime craft sector.”
IEC Telecom’s Xpand Portfolio offers advanced Starlink connectivity for yachting
As IEC Telecom Group continues its commitment to expanding digitalisation at sea, this week the satcom expert is heading to Palma International Boat Show to showcase its new connectivity solution, aiming to transform the quality of service on board leisure vessels.
Yacht owners are investing heavily in connectivity infrastructures. The latest Superyacht Connectivity Report reveals that 74% of yacht owners expect to increase their satcom budget by 25% by 2025. Considering that 47% of the world’s yacht trips are based in the Mediterranean Sea, PIBS is the perfect backdrop to showcase the latest solution in the field.
Xpand Portfolio is a new all-inclusive satcom solution by IEC Telecom. Powered by Starlink and enhanced by a range of proprietary value-added services - such as reliable back-up, 24/7 support, and optimised applications - the new solution manages vessel and guest connectivity in real-time.
Gwenaël Lohéac, Chief Procurement Officer and President of Europe & West Africa at IEC Telecom Group, explains: “With Starlink now offering global maritime coverage, yachtsmen and women today can enjoy fast speed connectivity wherever they set sail. However, speed is only one of the parameters. Functionality and management of the system are crucial to ensure the best user experience on board. This is exactly what Xpand is made for.”
Browsing social media, connecting to video calls, or streaming Netflix, yacht operators expect to enjoy the same lifestyle at sea as at home. While technically both VSAT and LEO-based terminals can meet these requirements, data-consuming entertainment can potentially monopolise networks and affect the work of vessel critical systems connected to the web. Pre-equipped with a network management system, Xpand mitigates such risks. The captain can now monitor and manage network resources in real time via a user-friendly dashboard. In addition, Xpand offers a range of remote solutions for more complicated interventions, such as maintenance or system upgrades.
Xpand provides a bespoke onboard information system to satisfy the demands of the most sophisticated users. This technology allows synchronised reading from multiple devices and gives guests access to a range of useful information such as route, weather, menus, announcements from the captain etc., via individual customised dashboards.
“The face of the yachting industry is changing and satcom connectivity needs to evolve to meet the needs of new and very connected generations,” Mr Loheac comments. “We’re excited to bring Xpand to the yachting sector and are confident it provides the future-proof solution that tech-savvy yacht operators are searching for.”
Hempel’s SeamFlow reduces emissions and costs with minimal vessel downtime
Coatings company Hempel A/S is showcasing its unique new solution, SeamFlow, for the first time in Asia at his week’s Sea Asia event in Singapore.
The world’s first seam fairing solution for ship hulls is designed to reduce friction on the underwater area of vessel hulls and can reduce fuel consumption by up to 2.5%. Over a one five-year dry-docking cycle it can also save up to 12,000 tonnes of carbon emissions and $1.8 million in fuel costs.
SeamFlow is a complete system of coating, application tools and dedicated service, designed to reduce the friction created as a ship’s hull sails through water. By smoothing the welding seams created when the steel sheets of a ship’s hull meet, friction can be significantly reduced.
A ship’s hull has around 5 kilometres of weld seams, and although the welds protrude by only 3-9 millimetres, their dragging effect on a vessel’s operation adds up to a significant amount.
Mads Raun Bertelsen (pictured), Marine Data and Technology Director at Hempel, says: “SeamFlow has been available for application on vessels since last year and, with the positive results seen on all applications until now, Hempel is delighted to share the possible positive impact of SeamFlow at Sea Asia this week. By reducing the drag created by the welds on a ship’s hull we are able to deliver considerable fuel savings to industry and also support owners’ and operators’ emission-reduction pathways.”
SeamFlow is applied during routine dry-docking after the hull has been coated with one coat of anti-corrosive primer. Two SeamFlow applicator teams then apply the modified epoxy using specially developed equipment to the welding seams. Hempel-approved experts are onsite to guide the application and carry out quality checks. After 10-12 hours the specialised epoxy coating will be dry and ready for the final tie-coat and top-coat as usual. Hempel also offers in-service performance monitoring to help quantify the customers’ return on investment.
Nikhil Lakhiani, SeamFlow Solution Owner at Hempel, says: “SeamFlow is a smart and simple solution for ship owners to reduce costs and meet environmental targets without the need for any significant additional downtime. The application can be easily accommodated in the dry-docking schedule, and if planned well, becomes a smooth and integral part of dry-dock operation.”
SeamFlow is compatible with all Hempel products, which offer further efficiencies and cost-saving opportunities.
Next generation of ocean talent revealed in shortlist for Nor-Shipping Young Entrepreneur Award 2023
Nor-Shipping, in partnership with YoungShip International, has announced the final four talented individuals set to battle it out for this year’s Young Entrepreneur Award.
The four are: Capt. Alexandra Hagerty (pictured), the Founder of Captains Without Borders; André Risholm, Founder & CEO, Amon Maritime; Christina Aleixendri Munos, Co-founder and CEO, Bound4Blue; and Danielle Southcott, Founder, Veer Corporation. They will now compete for the prestigious accolade, with the winner announced at the Nor-Shipping Opening Ceremony on 5 June at Oslo City Hall.
The shortlisted group, all of whom must be under 40 years of age, were selected by an expert industry panel based on an ability to turn challenges into business opportunities, create jobs, enhance efficiency, adopt best practices, and address sustainability issues.
Amongst a highly competitive international field, Nor-Shipping Director Sidsel Norvik says the quartet stood out thanks not only to business acumen, but also their “passion for building a better future for maritime and the ocean environment”.
Capt. Alexandra Hagerty, from the US, founded Captains Without Borders with the mission of encouraging and enabling greater diversity within maritime, supporting female cadets from under-represented groups as they aim to build future careers on the bridge.
Canadian Danielle Southcott is the founder of Veer Corporation, an organisation with the ambitious goal of deploying the first clean container ship to cross an ocean, powered by wind and green hydrogen.
Wind is also a focus for Bound4Blue’s Christina Aleixendri Munos, a Spanish company that aims to bring the renewable energy source to the wider industry with a breakthrough, automated turnkey solution.
Clean shipping is the shared passion of the final nominee, Norway’s André Risholm, who is developing what has been hailed as the world’s first carbon free shipping company, based on the concept that ammonia fuel will propel maritime’s “zero emission revolution”.
“This is such an exciting group of future industry stars, each of whom have built organisations around novel approaches to issues that long-established players have been struggling to tackle, often for many years,” adds Lene Osen Osnes, Secretary General, YoungShip International.
This year’s victor will join an alumni of previous winners that includes Boyan Slat, Founder of Ocean Cleanup; Brim Explorer’s Agnes Árnadóttir and Espen Larsen-Hakkebo; and last year’s title holder Christiaan Nijst, Founder & Director, Value Maritime.
Latest edition of Drug Trafficking and Drug Abuse On Board Ship published
ICS is pleased to announce that the new 2023-2024 edition of Drug Trafficking and Drug Abuse On Board Ship has been published -and is available for purchase.
Considered the leading industry publication on the topic, this 7th edition has been fully updated by industry experts to assist shipping companies, Masters and officers with understanding how to respond when faced with drug trafficking and drug abuse at sea.
The Guide provides the information necessary for seafarers to act responsibly and in accordance with appropriate advice to help combat drug trafficking at sea and to recognise the signs of drug use and dependence among crew members.
Use of these Guidelines can help to protect the shipping industry from the reputational and commercial damage that may be associated with drug incidents. They identify shipboard operational considerations and responses, as well as the training and procedures that are required both ashore and on board.
The new edition of Drug Trafficking and Drug Abuse On Board Ship is priced at £195. View the full contents list, introduction, and order directly from the Witherbys website.
LR grants Approval in Principle to HD HHI and KSOE ammonia FSRU
Lloyd’s Register (LR) has awarded Approval in Principle (AiP) to HD Hyundai Heavy Industries (HHI) and Korea Shipbuilding & Offshore Engineering (KSOE) for its Ammonia Floating Storage Re-Gasification Unit (FSRU), the first of its kind in Korea.
HHI’s ammonia-FSRU will store liquefied ammonia transported from production areas and can perform regasification to supply to shipowners and operators. FRSUs are an increasingly viable alternative to meet the growing demand for liquefied gas storage and regasification and are significantly more affordable to operate than onshore plants.
The AiP follows the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) in December 2022 for a Joint Development Project (JDP) between LR, Korea National Oil Corporation (KNOC), HD HHI KSOE.
As part of the JDP to develop the Ammonia FSRU, HHI performed the basic design of the unit whilst KSOE developed the key equipment for the regasification system and KNOC provided technical information on the construction of domestic clean ammonia acquisition and storage infrastructure projects.
Sung-Gu Park, North East Asia President of Lloyd’s Register, said: “The development of FSRUs that can respond flexibly to the operating environment in a situation where the marketability of ammonia is increasing is an important element in the industrial value chain. It is expected that this AIP achievement will greatly contribute to leading HD Hyundai's ammonia-FSRU technology and Korea National Oil Corporation's ammonia business.”
Seung-ho Jeon, Head of Technology, HD Hyundai Heavy Industries, said: “We developed the first ammonia-FSRU in Korea based on HD Hyundai Heavy Industries differentiated FSRU technology accumulated over a long period of time. We will focus our capabilities on technology development so that we can lead the way.”
Beom-hee Ahn, Head of ESG, Korea National Oil Corporation, said: “This development will be one of the major solutions to solve pending issues in the field of clean ammonia storage infrastructure. We will take the lead in building a carbon-free and clean energy ecosystem through continuous cooperation with HD Hyundai and Lloyd's Register."
The AiP follows a number of recent projects with HHI including AiP for its new Onboard Guidance System, AiP for two container ships equipped with measures for mitigating of container loss at sea, Software Conformity Assessment for HHI’s Digital Hi-PIX Digital Twin which predicts the structural integrity of an IMO Type B fuel tank.
LR enjoys strong relationships with Korean stakeholders including HHI Group, which celebrated its 50th anniversary last year, alongside LR’s 60th anniversary for operations in the Republic of Korea which was marked LR’s ranking as the number one classification society on classification technical service by the Korea Offshore and Shipbuilding Association (KOSHIPA).
Singapore, Los Angeles and Long Beach ports ink agreement on green and digital shipping corridor
The Maritime and Port Authority of Singapore (MPA), Port of Los Angeles (POLA), and Port of Long Beach (POLB), with the support of C40 Cities, signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) today to establish a green and digital shipping corridor between Singapore and the San Pedro Bay port complex to support the decarbonisation of the maritime industry and improve efficiencies through digitalisation.
The MoU was signed by Mr Teo Eng Dih, Chief Executive of MPA, Mr Gene Seroka, Executive Director of POLA, and Mr Mario Cordero, Executive Director of POLB, and witnessed by Mr S Iswaran, Singapore’s Minister for Transport and Minister-in-charge of Trade Relations; Mr Chee Hong Tat, Singapore’s Senior Minister of State, Ministry of Finance and Ministry of Transport; Mr Jonathan Kaplan, Ambassador of the US to Singapore; Mr Niam Chiang Meng, Chairman of MPA; Ms Sharon Weismann, Long Beach Harbor Commission President; and Mr Edward Renwick, Los Angeles Harbor Commissioner.
C40 is the facilitator of the green and digital shipping corridor, providing support to the cities, ports, and their corridor partners by coordinating, convening, facilitating, and providing communications support in furtherance of the corridor’s goals.
As leading global hub ports, Singapore, Los Angeles and Long Beach are vital nodes on the trans-Pacific shipping lane and key stakeholders in the maritime sector’s green transition. Ahead of the revision of the IMO’s Initial Strategy for the Reduction of Greenhouse Gas (GHG) Emissions from Ships in July 2023, the three ports will come together with C40 and other stakeholders in the maritime and energy value chains, to jointly accelerate the decarbonisation of the maritime industry in line with the goals of IMO, and Singapore’s and the US’ respective Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs).
The MoU also builds on the ports’ long-standing cooperation through platforms such as the Port Authorities’ Roundtable (PAR) and chainPORT, and complements bilateral initiatives such as the US-Singapore Climate Partnership and the US-Singapore Partnership for Growth and Innovation.
In his message at the annual Singapore Maritime Week, John Kerry, US Special Presidential Envoy for Climate said: “Shipping is responsible for approximately a gigaton of greenhouse gas emissions each year... [but] the good news is that many shipping companies, ports, and countries are stepping up. Today’s MoU is one of those pieces of good news!”
The green and digital shipping corridor aims to support the transition to low- and zero-emission fuels by ships calling at Singapore and the San Pedro Bay port complex. The parties will work to facilitate the supply and adoption of these fuels and explore the necessary infrastructure and regulations for bunkering.
In addition to identifying and collaborating on pilot and demonstration projects, the MoU aims to identify digital shipping solutions and develop standards and best practices for green ports and the bunkering of alternative marine fuels, including sharing experiences at international platforms such as IMO.
The MoU follows from an earlier announcement in November 2022, that MPA, POLA, POLB and C40 had begun discussions to establish a green and digital shipping corridor between Singapore and the San Pedro Bay port complex. This announcement was featured in the Green Shipping Challenge, launched by the US and Norway during the World Leaders’ Summit at COP27 in Sharm el-Sheikh, Egypt. The Green Shipping Challenge hopes to encourage governments, ports, maritime carriers, cargo owners, and other stakeholders across the maritime value chain to commit to concrete steps to galvanise global action to decarbonise the shipping industry.
Mr Teo Eng Dih said: “The signing of this MoU signals our collective will to pool our resources, technical insights, industry and research networks to deliver scalable green as well as digital corridor solutions to help the maritime industry attain the 2050 emission reduction targets expected of the International Maritime Organization and help spur the development of green growth opportunities.”
“No single port or organization can tackle the challenge of decarbonizing the supply chain alone, no matter how innovative their technology or robust their efforts,” said POLA Executive Director Gene Seroka. “The establishment of this green shipping corridor between the San Pedro Bay Port Complex and Singapore will prove to be a living, breathing testament to the power of global collaboration.”
“Curbing greenhouse gases from international shipping is essential to fight global warming,” said POLB Executive Director Mario Cordero. “Creating this green corridor with our partner ports and C40 Cities is part of our strategy to coalesce all of our efforts here and beyond to help advance our goals for cleaner marine fuels for oceangoing vessels, improve efficiencies for the global movement of goods, and to achieve a carbon-neutral future.”
C40 Cities Executive Director Mark WATTS said, "Delivering science-based, rapid and concrete action on shipping emissions is crucial to ensure the shipping sector decarbonisation is aligned with the goal of keeping global heating below 1.5°C. C40 is proud to support this first mover initiative aimed at accelerating the transition to low- and zero-carbon fuels and other decarbonisation technologies."
Singapore and Chinese tech companies partner up to digitally transform supply chains
Singapore-based global technology company CrimsonLogic, a leader in digital trade facilitation solutions and part of the PSA Group, announces that it has entered into a strategic collaboration with Shanghai Data Group, a Chinese enterprise which manages Shanghai’s public and state-owned enterprise data. This collaboration will see CrimsonLogic work together with Shanghai Data Group to improve cross-border trade efficiency.
The Letter of Intent was inked at the Singapore-Shanghai Comprehensive Cooperation Council (SSCCC) Meeting held yesterday in Singapore, organized by Enterprise Singapore and co-chaired by Shanghai Mayor Gong Zheng and the Minister of Culture, Community and Youth of Singapore and Second Minister of Law Edwin Tong.
This partnership will also aid the internationalization of Chinese enterprises by connecting them to more than 60 Customs nodes globally via CrimsonLogic’s CALISTA platform, which streamlines trade compliance and supply chain processes by optimizing data reuse and improving connectivity across Customs nodes.
The two companies will also explore using Blockchain, Artificial Intelligence, Cloud Computing and other technologies to establish a safe and efficient trade data protection and regulatory framework.
"We are thrilled to be partnering Shanghai Data Group to facilitate the expansion of Chinese enterprises globally,” said Lawrence Ng, CEO of CrimsonLogic. “We envision an integrated global trade ecosystem which connects government and business stakeholders digitally to optimize and streamline supply chains, bringing our ‘Total Trade’ vision to life.
“With the right platform and solutions to improve levels of control, connectivity and competitiveness in global trade, we believe this partnership is truly a leap in the right direction for CrimsonLogic and Shanghai Data Group.”
As part of the collaboration, CrimsonLogic and Shanghai Data Group will be exploring opportunities to expand their footprints in China and Singapore respectively to provide even greater value to the industry and their customers.
ZEBOX launches Singapore hub to drive sustainable innovation in Asia Pacific
Startup accelerator ZEBOX has announced the launch of its Asia Pacific hub in Singapore. All set to tap the vibrant and fast-growing Asian markets from Singapore, ZEBOX Asia Pacific will address business and sustainability challenges across a range of sectors, including supply chains, logistics, transport and energy.
ZEBOX was founded in 2018 by Rodolphe Saadé, Chairman and CEO of the CMA CGM Group as a community of the most promising startups and large companies dedicated to accelerating decarbonisation and operational optimisation in the supply chain industry. Today, the ZEBOX portfolio spans more than 130 early-stage businesses and has helped raise over $235 million in venture funding for the next generation of solutions.
With innovation hubs in Europe, North America, the Caribbean and West Africa, this new 5th hub in the Asia Pacific region will uphold ZEBOX’s mission: connect startups and corporates to help them innovate together.
Home to over 4,000 startups and regional headquarters of global enterprises, Singapore is synonymous with pro-business policies, cutting-edge digital infrastructure, and robust pipeline of skilled talents.
With the support of Enterprise Singapore and the Maritime Port Authority of Singapore(MPA), ZEBOX Asia Pacific will identify startups in Asia, notably in Singapore, and match them to corporate partners so that together, they can embark on co-innovation projects locally and across markets in the Asia Pacific, spanning Australia in Oceania; to Indonesia and Vietnam in Southeast Asia; to Japan and Korea in North Asia.
ZEBOX’s community of partners add up to 20 with three new industry leaders
Bureau Veritas Marine and Offshore, one of the world’s leading ship classification societies; PSA unboXed, PSA International’s innovation and corporate venture capital arm; and Synergy Marine Group, a leading ship manager have become corporate partners of ZEBOX Asia Pacific.
They join ZEBOX’s founding partner, CMA CGM and its circle of 16 other major partner groups to co-develop with startups game-changing solutions across four key areas: operational efficiency, assets optimisation and decarbonisation, workflow automation, and future of work.
“ZEBOX’s goal is to connect the most promising startups with industry leaders looking at innovation as a means of progress and path toward a more sustainable economy,” said ZEBOX CEO Gwen Salley. “With Asia Pacific being one of the most, if not, the most, active region in the world, it simply made sense for ZEBOX to launch in Singapore.
“With this regional presence, we’ll have the ability to unite ambitious corporate partners, and connect them with our global ecosystem, thanks to Singapore's pro-business government, local talents, and vibrant tech support system.”
“We are thrilled that ZEBOX has expanded to Asia Pacific; and taken off the ground with three new esteemed partners in Singapore,” said Laurent Olmeta, CEO of CMA CGM Asia Pacific. “We are grateful for the resounding support from MPA and Enterprise Singapore.
“From today, ZEBOX Asia Pacific will start initiating corporate-startup collaborations to future-proof tomorrow’s supply chain with resilience, agility and sustainability,”
Mr Teo Eng Dih, Chief Executive, Maritime and Port Authority of Singapore, said: “We welcome ZEBOX onboard Singapore’s vibrant maritime innovation ecosystem. Startups play a critical role in the transformation of the maritime sector by generating value through their innovative solutions. Through working with partners, MPA hopes to anchor more Marinetech startups in Singapore to develop, test and commercialise new products and services from Singapore to benefit the global maritime community.”
Matthieu de Tugny, President of Bureau Veritas Marine and Offshore, said: “I am proud to join the ZEBOX community and support green tech in developing clean solutions for today and tomorrow. We believe talent will be at the heart of shipping’s transition. Joining ZEBOX is about empowering visionaries and supporting them to address the industry’s pain points.”
Ong Kim Pong, Regional CEO Southeast Asia, PSA International, said: “PSA unboXed is delighted to team up with ZEBOX to co-innovate and co-create innovative and sustainable solutions for the maritime industry. Building on our collaborative success in different domains and with this significant expansion of our relationship, PSA unboXed and ZEBOX will further align our business ingenuity with a strong commitment to the energy transition, creating long-term value for our respective stakeholders.”
Capt. Rajesh Unni, Founder and Chief Executive Officer, Synergy Marine, said: “The fastest way we can transform maritime supply chains into dynamic and resilient sustainable structures that meet the world’s pressing need for decarbonised trade, is by identifying, collaborating and creating world-class solutions to these challenges.
“ZEBOX brings together partners that understand where we are now and where we need to get to. With this cohort, we aim to supercharge freight and logistics technology innovations with transformative potential to accelerate industry adoption and drive impact where it’s most needed.”
“Guidelines for Shipboard CO2 Capture and Storage Systems” released
ClassNK has released “Guidelines for Shipboard CO2 Capture and Storage Systems" which include provisions for indicating the class notation for vessels equipped with CO2 capture and storage systems or designed as “ready” for their installation.
In addition to fuel transition, interest in capturing CO2 from ships’ exhaust gas is growing as a way to reduce GHG emissions, and the development of onboard systems for capturing and storing CO2 is being undertaken. ClassNK has joined “Carbon Capture on the Ocean (CC-Ocean)” project with Mitsubishi Shipbuilding Co., Ltd. and Kawasaki Kisen Kaisha, Ltd. on the world’s first marine-based CO2 capture system on actual voyage, and has been involved in the evaluation and verification of the entire project from a safety perspective.
Incorporating the experience gained from this actual project, ClassNK has published the guidelines that cover an overview of shipboard CO2 capture and storage systems, including safety requirements related to the systems and their installation on the ships, and provisions for the notation indicating the vessels are equipped with such systems or designed as “ready” for their installation.
Furthermore, when utilizing shipboard CO2 capture and storage systems, considerations should be required not only for additional equipment installation space, such as CO2 absorption units and CO2 storage tanks but also for additional energy for heating the amine solutions and driving pumps. As the supporting reference for initial studies, the guidelines’ appendix provides the methods for estimating both the dimensions of principal additional equipment and additional energy.
Ocean Technologies Group appoints Chief People and Culture Officer to promote inclusion and diversity
Ocean Technologies Group (OTG) has appointed Tracy Maraj in a key role as Chief People & Culture Officer (CPCO) to shape and lead OTG’s people strategy.
Tracy will be responsible for leading OTG’s people agenda, developing effective strategies that deliver OTG’s business objectives by ensuring it’s global team of over 450 ‘oceaneers’ to maximise their full potential in a culture that cultivates openness, inclusivity, and diversity.
Tracy brings a breadth and depth of experience across all facets of human resources, hypergrowth, transformation and expansion on a global scale.
Prior to joining OTG she has worked in similar roles for Utopia Music, Mews, Native Instruments and Meteogroup.
Tracy has also held senior people leadership roles at Netscape, Salesforce, Cisco Systems, and Intel where she gained extensive experience within the fast paced and high growth technology sector.
Speaking about the appointment OTG’s CEO Thomas Zanzinger said, “It is great to have Tracy joining us to lead our People & Culture team where her role will be instrumental in helping to shape how we deliver our strategy, by cultivating and championing a culture that fosters diversity, inclusivity, agility, wellness, and open communication.”
“OTG’s business is focused on human capital with our three business streams of Learning & Assessment, Crew Management and Fleet Management so it is fitting that we employed a people centric manager within our business to develop our teams so that every person at OTG can realise their full potential,” he added.
Commenting on her appointment Tracy said, “I’m really delighted to join Ocean Technologies Group. As a business we have an exciting journey ahead of us and the people agenda will be a critical part of our success. I’m looking forward to partnering with our teams to build a sustainable people centric strategy that supports our ambitions and growth.”
Singapore-based project to advance use of AI for Carbon Intensity Indicator modelling
METIS Cyberspace Technology reports that it will be collaborating with MTI Co. Ltd. Singapore Branch and the Agency for Science, Technology and Research (A*STAR) in Singapore to advance the use of AI for the predictive modelling of ship emissions and carbon intensity indicator (CII) evaluation.
The undertaking is part of a master agreement framework for co-developing AI and other digital technologies announced during the MarineTech Conference as part of the Singapore Maritime Week, where A*STAR established a Centre for Maritime Digitalisation (C4MD).
The C4MD is led by A*STAR’s Institute of High Performance Computing (IHPC). Signatories of the master agreement framework comprise: A*STAR, ABS, Bureau Veritas, DNV, METIS Cyberspace Technology (Singapore) Pte Ltd, ClassNK, MTI Co. Ltd., PSA Marine (Pte) Ltd and ShipsFocus Services Pte Ltd.
The METIS-MTI-A*STAR project will focus on the way AI-based solutions can help shipping adjust to the IMO’s Carbon Intensity Indicator (CII). Entering into force from 1 January 2023, the CII rates ships on the basis of CO2 emissions by transport work from A to E, expecting them to achieve a C rating or better, or explain how they will do so. However, the relationship between the KPI and the factors determining ship behaviours has not been fully studied.
“The Centre for Maritime Digitalisation (C4MD) hosts and supports innovative maritime R&D initiatives in Singapore such as the flagship Maritime AI Research Programme. The translation and application of research capabilities across the value-chain will contribute to a safer, more efficient and more sustainable maritime industry, and strengthen Singapore’s competitiveness in the maritime sector,” said Dr Su Yi, Executive Director, A*STAR’s IHPC.
Eleni Polychronopoulou, President & CEO, METIS Cyberspace Technology, signed for METIS, with Singapore Managing Director Chinmoy Ghose as witness.
“We are delighted to work with A*STAR’s IHPC and MTI on one of the key projects announced as part of the launch of C4MD,” said Polychronopoulou. “Owners face multiple options on how they improve their CII performance, and making the wrong choice can be costly.
“This project’s first target is to make the relationship between fuel consumption/emissions and the CII rating more transparent by taking full account the ship profile. Subsequently, we aim to develop a simulation platform to model future voyages and evaluate the real-time CII compliance status of a ship.”
An owner establishing a CII rating, or how to improve it, can consider factors including adjusting a ship’s sailing time ratio, speed profile, voyage profile, hull and propeller condition, specific fuel oil consumption, electrical consumption, trim, draft, or an engine de-rating. Modelling based on AI offers the opportunity to consider ‘what-if’ scenarios and assess how new methodologies or technologies can be introduced to reduce emissions without compromising operational performance, said Polychronopoulou.
Durapower and EST-Floatech to distribute jointly developed Octopus next generation maritime battery system in Asia
Singapore Lithium-ion battery manufacturer, Durapower Technology Singapore Pte Ltd (Durapower) and Dutch maritime energy storage solutions developer EST-Floatech have entered an agreement where Durapower will be the exclusive distributor in Asia for EST- Floatech’s Octopus series of next generation of certified battery systems, based on Durapower’s cell technology, for the maritime market.
EST-Floatech, a global leader in energy storage solutions, is pleased to announce the official launch of the Octopus series battery system. The new production line is in place, and the first modules of the new battery system have been delivered to clients.
The Octopus platform is an advanced, modular Battery Management System (BMS) developed to configure a variety of batteries. This BMS provides a user-friendly interface that connects the battery. As it can integrate a range of battery configurations and chemistries, it is highly versatile and adaptable to diverse applications, while maintaining a consistent interface for the customer. The BMS is an integral part of the safety management of the batteries and offers remote monitoring, diagnostics, and service.
The Octopus Series currently offers two main types of battery modules: High Energy and High Power. The High Energy batteries are designed for long-duration and large-scale battery installations, making them ideal for medium- and large-sized ships that sail electrically and charge during the night, for example. The High Power modules are designed to handle higher currents which, in practical terms, means short charge and discharge times. This can be used in fast-charging ferries, that make short trips and need to charge during stops. In addition, EST-Floatech is at an advanced stage of developing ‘lite’ and ‘lite xl’ versions of the Octopus batteries.
In addition to a fixed configuration - placing the system in a dedicated battery room - the Octopus Series battery system is available as a containerized solution, that can be placed on different types of vessels, offering flexibility, available in 10- and 20-foot containers.
The Octopus Series battery-system is the second system of EST-Floatech that has received DNV type approval. EST-Floatech has a safe-by-design philosophy when creating products. The Octopus Series has been designed with multiple safety layers in the hardware and software.
These safety systems prevent the battery cells from reaching critical limits, based on more than 10 years of experience with maritime battery systems. This battery system represents the next generation of certified battery management systems for maritime markets.
Nico De Cauwer appointed IPCSA Secretary General
Closer collaboration between organisations is needed to maximise the benefits of digitalisation, according to the new Secretary General of the International Port Community Systems Association (IPCSA).
“A major challenge for IPCSA will be strengthening our international relationships and ensuring effective collaboration with other organisations,” said Nico De Cauwer, who formally takes the reins at IPCSA on 1 May. “Everyone talks about digitalisation, but we see many organisations working only inside their own domain and not thinking outside the box.
“IPCSA has always focused on the sharing of experience and expertise, with a strongly collaborative approach. We want to champion the development of practical, concrete collaboration projects with others in the industry.”
In parallel, he said, IPCSA would seek to attract new members from all regions of the world, engage more closely with existing members and introduce new innovations and initiatives designed to streamline and simplify the exchange of information required for the swift and seamless flow of international cargo.
“IPCSA has a very stable relationship with many international organisations; in some cases we have a formal and official NGO status, and several IPCSA representatives are official and recognised experts,” said De Cauwer. “Having built that strong reputation and presence in the industry, we now need to take a step further in setting up mutual projects to deliver even more benefits for our members, across global supply chains.”
De Cauwer will combine his role as Secretary General with his current position as Business Architect Port Community Solutions at the Port of Antwerp-Bruges. He has 30 years of experience in the port and maritime sector and has been involved in a wide variety of digitalisation and innovation projects.
Since 2017 he has been the IPCSA Executive Committee’s Representative for Europe and North America, and he has also been leading IPCSA’s Standards and Technology domain. Last year he took over as Chairman of the PROTECT message design group, which develops and supports the electronic reporting required by authorities for vessels entering or leaving a port or port area. PROTECT was integrated into IPCSA in 2021.
De Cauwer is also participating Expert Member of the UN/CEFACT Transport and Logistics Domain, IPCSA delegate in the IMO Expert Group on Data Harmonisation (EGDH) and a member of the Data Collaboration Committee at the IAPH.
IPCSA is an international association of sea and air Port Community System operators, sea and air port authorities and Single Window operators, recognised around the world for providing advice and guidance on the electronic exchange of information across borders and throughout the whole supply chain.
The appointment of De Cauwer follows the loss of Richard Morton, who passed away in 2022 having served as Secretary General since IPCSA was founded as the European Port Community Systems Association in 2011.
“I am very pleased and delighted to take on the role of Secretary General of IPCSA,” he said. “I want to continue Richard’s work and build on his amazing achievements – that is a big driver for me.”
Javier Gallardo, Chairman of IPCSA and CEO of Portic, Barcelona, said: “Nico brings with him a wealth of experience and knowledge and a highly proven track record in representing IPCSA on the international stage. We were proud to celebrate IPCSA’s tenth anniversary in 2021; now we are looking forward to taking IPCSA to the next level, expanding our membership and building on the strong reputation as an expert group, an effort that was uniquely pioneered and championed by Richard Morton.”
GTMaritime and CrowdStrike join forces to combat growing sophistication of cyber threats to shipping
GTMaritime, a leading provider of secure maritime data communication solutions, has today announced its partnership with CrowdStrike, one of the world’s leading cybersecurity software providers. The partnership introduces the next generation of endpoint security to the maritime sector.
The software only solution from CrowdStrike is backed up by GTMaritime’s extensive maritime expertise to support regulatory compliance and protect ships from known and unknown malware and zero-day threats.
Utilising AI based Next Gen Antivirus (NGAV) with no signatures, CrowdStrike addresses gaps in legacy anti-virus solutions to provide full attack visibility and control. It includes a range of advanced features such as the ability to isolate assets remotely, device control – including USB locking – and functionality to create group wide, ship, or endpoint specific policies. With a comprehensive shore-side management portal, the solution can be installed without the need for an engineer onboard.
The new solution will be available from GTMaritime in two options depending on customer specific requirements. It can include additional Security Operations Centre (SOC) services from GTMaritime to assist users with IMO compliance, while also offering access to the company’s 24/7 support team.
Richard White, Global Commercial Director at GTMaritime said: “We are delighted to be working with CrowdStrike and to be in a position to deliver one of the most advanced cybersecurity solutions to the shipping industry. As cyberattacks continue to evolve and become increasingly sophisticated, it’s vital that ship owners and managers are equipped with the most advanced solutions to track and identify threats and protect ships and connected infrastructure.
“Advances in satellite connectivity have allowed our clients to further integrate their ship and shore operations and CrowdStrike brings the necessary cyber protection that you would expect whilst being backed up by GTMaritime’s 24 / 7 support.”
MCTC launches Galley Inspection Course to ensure highest standards of hygiene and cleanliness onboard vessels
International catering management specialist MCTC has underlined its commitment to maintaining high standards of food preparation and quality onboard by launching its brand new Galley Inspection Course.
The new training course will equip participants with the knowledge and skills to conduct effective inspections of vessel galleys and food preparation areas, as well as being able to identify potential risks and hazards.
Run across four modules, trainees will take part in a combination of theoretical and VR assessments to cover topics including, food safety, equipment maintenance and troubleshooting techniques.
International company MCTC provides the full spectrum of catering management services to vessels, from recipe planning, ordering provisions, and budgeting, along with a range of catering and nutrition training courses for galley staff. It also promotes a healthy lifestyle with fitness and mental health initiatives.
The Galley Inspection Course is the first training programme in MCTC’s portfolio aimed at people wanting to train to become galley inspectors. The programme covers a range of subjects, including food hazards and cross-contamination, galley hygiene, cleanliness, and pest control.
CEO of MCTC, Christian Ioannou (pictured) said: “Food safety and good hygiene are critical factors in the running of a galley. We are delighted to add this course to our offering to ensure those inspecting galleys are trained to the highest standard. Galley crews play a critical and vital role in the operation of a ship in that they provide the fuel for the seafarers.
“But it is crucial that food is prepared in the correct and safest way to ensure the safety of all crew members. That is why we felt it was important to create the Galley Inspection Course. Running a safe, organised, and clean galley is the essential foundation to good catering.”
For further information, please visit www.mctconsultancy.com.
Rapid growth of AI and Autonomy accompanied by assurance challenges
A new report from Lloyd’s Register (LR) and maritime innovation consultancy Thetius advocates investment to improve the understanding of AI at all levels within maritime organisations and outlines the value of including AI and Autonomy at board level, alongside workforce education and training to raise awareness of safety and regulations of advanced technology.
Titled ‘Out of the Box’, the joint study assesses autonomy and assurance of artificial intelligence in the maritime industry, with both markets currently estimated to be worth a joint $3.7billion in 2023, a 57% increase from 2022. The report projects that the AI-driven systems and vessel autonomy market will be worth a combined $5bn by 2028 with significant growth and crossover of both sectors expected.
With digital solutions presenting challenges due to rapidly evolving technologies, such as AI-driven autonomous systems onboard modern vessels, the report calls for clarity around normal and emergency use cases, pointing to the need for traditional assurance measures to become increasingly integrated.
The report adds that as the industry moves forward, it is essential that the performance of these systems is thoroughly examined to ensure safety remains a priority regardless of rapid innovations.
In addition to pointing to the importance of investment in improving the understanding of AI at all levels within maritime organisations, this second study from LR and Thetius recommends that technology should be appropriate to user risks and calls for the creation of an independent cross-industry body to support the safe development of artificial intelligence for maritime organisations.
Dipali Kuchekar, Product Manager, Autonomous Systems and Novel Technologies, Lloyd’s Register, said: "As we move towards a future where digital solutions become increasingly integrated into the shipping industry, organisations like Lloyd’s Register will continue to adapt and evolve their assurance processes to support uptake of AI and autonomous systems to ensure that safety remains paramount. We are there to support shipowners and operators as they look at the investment case for Autonomy and AI."
The report follows last year’s study, ‘The Learning Curve - The state of artificial intelligence in maritime’, which outlined the importance of organisations prioritising safe testing environments for AI and autonomous technology. The study concluded that using solutions such as digital twin simulations and designated ships as beta testers can help to prevent incidents in real world settings.
LR has been involved in a number of projects related to AI and autonomous navigation, including awarding Digital Twin Approved Certification for Furuno’s HermAce Voyage Data Recorder (VDR) digital twin, the first verification review carried out by a classification society of a digital twin specifically designed for this purpose.
LR has also collaborated with the Alan Turing Institute to advance maritime digitalisation, providing digital technology adopters with a fast, cost-effective independent assurance and testing. As a result of the collaboration, the Alan Turing Institute’s AQ Live tools were used during the certification process for Furuno’s HermAce VDR, highlighting the power of AI as part of a safe and efficient testing procedure.
Lloyd’s Register’s digital solutions are used by more than half of the world's SOLAS fleet and provide voyage compliance, planning, ship management and vessel performance and includes products from OneOcean, Hanseaticsoft and ISF Watchkeeper, which was recently acquired jointly with the International Chamber of Shipping (ICS).
Posidonia Sea Tourism Forum opens as first cruise event ever in Thessaloniki
Over 400 delegates from the global cruise industry gathered at Thessaloniki's iconic Makedonia Palace hotel for the 7th Posidonia Sea Tourism Forum, which is being held at Greece’s second biggest city for the first time since its inception.
On the first day, attendees expressed optimism and hope for the cruise industry's future growth, with opening remarks delivered by Apostolos Tzitzikostas, Governor of the Region of Central Macedonia, Konstantinos Zervas, Mayor of Thessaloniki Municipality and Athanasios Liagkos, Executive Chairman of the BoD & Managing Director of ThPA SA - Port of Thessaloniki.
The opening day was keynoted by Pierfrancesco Vago, Executive Chairman, MSC Cruises & Global Chair, Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA). Vago spoke about the importance of sustainability and how the cruise industry is taking steps to reduce its environmental impact.
Vago emphasized that “the cruise industry has made huge technological leaps in less than 15 years as we strive to reach our decarbonisation objectives by 2050. For example, MSC Cruises is bringing later this year vessels that are 55% more efficient in terms of CO2 per nautical mile than earlier vessel classes built in 2009.”
In his capacity as Global Chair of CLIA, Vago spoke about the association's efforts to promote the cruise industry's growth and development worldwide. He emphasized the importance of collaboration between cruise lines, governments and other stakeholders in ensuring the industry's continued success.
"The cruise industry is a vital part of the global tourism industry, and it has the potential to make a significant contribution to local economies worldwide," he said. "We are committed to working with all stakeholders to ensure that the industry continues to grow and thrive in the years ahead."
Apostolos Tzitzikostas extended an invitation to the cruise industry to invest in Thessaloniki. He said: “With its stunning natural beauty and rich cultural heritage, Thessaloniki has the potential to become a major destination for cruise travellers. By investing in Thessaloniki, the international cruise industry could help to create new jobs and stimulate economic growth, while also providing travellers with an unforgettable experience in one of Europe's most beautiful and fascinating cities.
During the Forum’s first panel discussion titled “The Return to Growth: Challenges ahead for Cruise Lines and Destinations,” Yu Zenggang, Chairman of Piraeus Port Authority SA, said that the Piraeus port resumed its cruise operations in May 2021, faster than other Mediterranean ports and experienced a significant uptake in the cruise sector in 2021.
In 2019, Piraeus port broke the 1 million mark in terms of cruise passengers. Nevertheless, the port not only achieved fast and full recovery but exceeded pre-pandemic levels. Overall, 2022 was a record-breaking year for Piraeus Port Authority, with both revenue and profitability at their highest-ever levels.
The port’s cruise segment showed a significant increase in both port calls and passenger traffic. In 2022, passenger traffic increased by 190 percent to 880,416 compared to 303,665 in 2021. Cruise ship berthing also rose by 79 percent to 677 berths compared to 379 a year earlier, exceeding pre-Covid 2019 levels.
Yu said that a new cruise terminal is on the way, which, at its final phase, may accommodate the largest cruise ships in the world. It is expected to finish in a 2-three-year period, following the licensing procedure by the involved ministries and always in good and close cooperation with the Greek government.
Figen Ayan, President, MedCruise; Marie-Caroline Laurent, Director General, CLIA Europe; Wybcke Meier, CEO, TUI Cruises GmbH; and Chris Theophilides, CEO, Celestyal also shared their thoughts and optimistic messages for the growth of the cruise industry globally and in the Eastern Mediterranean more specifically.
During the opening day of the event, the Hellenic Ports Association (ELIME) signed an MoU with the Union of Cruise Ship Owners & Associated Members (EEKFN) in order to coordinate actions and bilateral plans designed to ensure that the development of the cruise industry in the Eastern Mediterranean region is done according to the international standards of service.
Athanasios Liagkos, in his capacity as Chairman of Hellenic Ports Association (ELIME), said: “One of the first actions we will take as a result of this agreement is to implement a series of initiatives to facilitate vessels berthing allocation and to solve problems such as visas, Covid tests, immigration across the association’s 13 member ports etc. In the framework of this MoU, we will coordinate the activities of our members to develop port policy, the participation of ports in regional development, and the creation of robust and competitive port service companies.”
MPA and 8 class societies sign LOI to collaborate on digitalisation and decarbonisation
The Maritime and Port Authority of Singapore (MPA) and eight internationally recognised classification societies have signed a Letter of Intent (LOI) to collaborate in the areas of maritime digitalisation and decarbonisation.
The LOI was signed during the Accelerating Decarbonisation Conference at Singapore Maritime Week on 27 April 2023 by Teo Eng Dih, Chief Executive of MPA; Christopher J. Wiernicki, Chairman, President and CEO of ABS; Matthieu de Tugny, President of Bureau Veritas Marine & Offshore; Sun Feng, Chairman and President of China Classification Society; Remi Eriksen, CEO of DNV; Lee Hyungchul, Chairman and CEO of Korean Register; Nick Brown, CEO of Lloyd’s Register; Hiroaki Sakashita, President and CEO of ClassNK; and Paolo Moretti, CEO of RINA Services S.p.A.
Under the LOI, MPA and the eight classification societies will strive to collaborate in areas such as smart and autonomous shipping, cyber security, electrification, and zero- and low-carbon fuels. They will work together to develop standards and technical references in the areas of maritime digitalisation and decarbonisation with a focus on meeting Singapore’s requirements as a start. This could cover zero or low-carbon marine fuels such as methanol, ammonia and hydrogen, as well as marine electrification.
The eight classification societies are also authorised by MPA as Recognised Organisations to conduct statutory certification, survey, inspection and audit services for Singapore-registered ships.
Mr Teo Eng Dih, Chief Executive of MPA, said, “With the rapid changes brought about by decarbonisation and digitalisation, there is a need for collaboration to learn from one another, partner likeminded stakeholders to build capabilities, and accelerate the development and adoption of new technologies. This LOI will pave the way for MPA to work with these eight recognised classification societies to shape standards, and contribute to develop innovative, viable, and cost-effective measures with our trading partners, green and digital shipping corridor partners, and the global maritime community.”
Smaller islands on the radar of the major luxury cruise companies in trend towards unique experiences
Luxury cruise companies are turning their attention to smaller, off-the-beaten-path destinations, according to discussions at the 7th Posidonia Sea Tourism Forum, held in Thessaloniki, Greece. While mainstream ports of call will always have their place, the trend for unique experiences in lesser-known destinations is taking hold.
However, the inclusion of more exotic locales on luxury cruise itineraries is not without its challenges. Infrastructure readiness at smaller destinations can be a concern, as well as quality venue availability and berthing policies, as noted by several industry professionals.
In terms of what luxury cruise guests seek out of the secret gem destinations, unique human and sustainable experiences top the preferences list.
Luxury cruise guests are searching for the unique and the unexpected and few people would know that an actual desert exists in a Greek island, according to Olympia Anastasopoulou, General Secretary of Tourism Policy and Development, Ministry of Tourism, Hellenic Republic, who keynoted the second and final day of the Forum.
“Coastal and maritime tourism can be a powerful tool for the development of Greece’s national economy as it currently contributes 1.5% of the country’s GDP. Greece possesses the characteristics to make it one of the most attractive destinations for Europe in sea tourism, ranking ninth in the world in terms of coastline length.
“But we also have mountains, lakes, rivers and even a desert in the Greek island of Limnos. This is why our potential to become a leading cruise destination is significant.”
ClassNK grants Innovation Endorsement for Products & Solutions to Terasaki Marine Information Platform
ClassNK has granted its Innovation Endorsement for Products & Solutions to an onboard data platform called TMIP (TERASAKI Marine Information Platform) developed by Terasaki Electric Co., Ltd.
In order to promote the spread and development of innovative technologies, ClassNK has offered Innovation Endorsement as a swift certification service in cooperation with technological front runners to establish appropriate evaluation criteria. Among the certification categories, "Products & Solutions" covers equipment and software technology with innovative functions.
TMIP is an onboard data platform that collects and stores various onboard data, and provides data to applications. It contributes to data utilization and optimization of onboard work.
ClassNK endorsement of TMIP covererd:
- Functions to provide data to Solution Provider (SP) as Platform Provider (PP) defined by IoS-OP;
- Data collection by various methods such as communication with other devices and direct input from sensors;
- High-speed cycle and long-term data collection, and the collected data can be saved as a file in any channel and at any cycle;
- Auto data save before and after a status change such as a device failure;
- Redundancy is available with two computers to continue saving data safely in case an error occurs.
XFuel enters new partnership to scale up sustainable zero carbon fuel
Sustainable drop-in fuels producer XFuel this week announced it has engaged DORIS, a leader in energy engineering, advisory and project management to provide front end engineering and design support for its modular energy conversion facilities.
DORIS will support XFuel’s in-house engineering team to scale up facilities that use XFuel’s unique modular mechanical carbon conversion technology (MECC). These facilities will produce sustainable drop-in fuels from waste feedstocks, while sequestering carbon as biochar, creating new decarbonisation pathways for hard-to-abate sectors across sea, air and road transport.
DORIS was chosen as a partner after an extensive evaluation process by XFuel. The engineering consultancy has the expertise and experience to help XFuel plan and prepare for applications to develop and construct its energy conversion facilities. These high-quality pre-FEED and FEED projects will be essential for the future build-out of XFuel’s small, flexible and easy-to-construct refineries, which can unlock a new, low-carbon model for sustainable fuels based on widely available feedstock, and which are replicable and scalable globally.
XFuel’s sustainable fuels will compete directly with other fuels on the market on cost and use existing infrastructure as a seamless drop-in option. Rapidly scalable technology, like XFuel’s MECC facilities, will play a vital role in the energy transition, something the G7 recognised in its communique following its more recent meeting, when it expressed a commitment to the continued development of low carbon fuels across marine, aviation and road transport sectors.
Dr Nicholas Ball (pictured), CEO, XFuel, commented on the agreement: “We are very pleased to be working with the team at DORIS. At XFuel we are ambitious about producing carbon neutral fuels at a commercial scale. With DORIS’ deep knowledge and expertise in the energy industry and their front end engineering support, we believe this is the beginning of us being able to deliver on this vision to provide cost-effective sustainable fuels across a range of sectors.”
Christophe Sarri, Chief Commercial Officer, DORIS, said: “Drawing on our decades of expertise enabling change across the energy sector, DORIS is fully committed to leading the energy transition and supporting businesses to develop innovative energy projects. We are delighted to be working with the XFuel team to support the delivery of low carbon sustainable fuel production facilities at a competitive price, safely and reliably.”
Tankers International targets further expansion under new CEO Charlie Grey
Large crude tanker pool Tankers International has announced the appointment of Charlie Grey as Chief Executive Officer, replacing CEO Jonathan Lee, who will become Chairman of the board of directors. Grey, who will move from his current role as Chief Operating Officer, will lead the independent organisation through its current phase of growth.
Matt Smith will take up the role of COO and will continue to focus on developing voyage optimisation schemes to reduce emissions and improve performance.
Grey (pictured) officially began his CEO tenure on 3 April and has played a pivotal role to date, alongside the existing board, in expanding Tankers International’s pool of Very Large Crude Carriers (VLCCs). The pool holds 64 vessels today, including an expansion of its specialist scrubber pool from 17 to 34 vessels compared to the start of 2022.
Ensuring a young average vessel age in the pool will be crucial as shipping rides the macro-economic waves, so Tankers International has replaced old and less efficient vessels with modern and energy friendly tonnage. The average age of the pool today is younger than it was at the start of 2022.
Grey commented: “I want to thank Jonathan for the fantastic work he’s delivered over the past 10 years, which has ensured that Tankers International has maintained and grown its market-leading position. I am honoured to be able to take the organisation forward, delivering value to the pool partners, expanding our fleet, and continuing to deliver our data-led, analysis-based approach with a human touch; a formula that has served us – and our pool partners – so well.”
Lois K. Zabrocky, International Seaways Inc.’s President and CEO, commented: “Since he was appointed as COO, Charlie excelled at meeting the needs of pool partners while navigating the uncertain trends driving the VLCC market. I am personally confident that Charlie is the right person to build on Jonathan's great work to position Tankers International for the future."
“As a founding member over 23 years ago, we have sought the best stewardship for the leading VLCC pool,” Hugo De Stoop, CEO of Euronav NV, added. “I am confident that under his leadership, along with the support of the management team, Charlie can deliver exceptional value and competitive financial returns for all pool partners.”
Jonathan Lee, outgoing CEO of Tankers International, added: “I believe that we have built something incredible at Tankers International, and I’m very proud to have played my part in building an evolutionary new model for tanker pooling, uniquely positioned to tackle the challenges and maximise the opportunities facing VLCC owners and operators.”
NOCC announces investment advised by J.P. Morgan Global Alternative’s Global Transportation Group
Norwegian Car Carriers AS (NOCC) is pleased to announce that institutional investors advised by J.P. Morgan Global Alternative’s Global Transportation Group have acquired 50% of the company from Klaveness Marine, taking their ownership to 100%. At the same time, NOCC acquired all minority shares in NOCC Atlantic DIS and became 100% owner of the NOCC Atlantic (pictured).
NOCC has a fleet of three Panamax size Pure Car Truck Carriers (about 6,500 ceu capacity) all chartered out on long term charters.
"We're delighted to continue to have J.P. Morgan’s clients as investors, their long-term focus and backing gives NOCC the ability to grow and serve its customers," said Olav Sollie, CEO. “J.P. Morgan’s deep industry knowledge and related business, will complement the management team’s significant experience and industry contacts."
Nicholas Meer, Managing Director, J.P. Morgan Alternative’s Global Transportation Group, commented: “We are pleased to continue our partnership with Olav and Per and to provide growth capital to support the company and its clients."
“NOCC and its predecessor firms have a storied history in the car carrier segment and with our sponsorship, can continue to be a key tonnage provider to the industry,” said Andrian Dacy, Global Head of Transportation for J.P. Morgan Alternatives. “We believe NOCC is well positioned to help its clients meet the challenges of today’s market.”
PSA BDP to be logistics service provider for major EV battery manufacturer in Europe
PSA BDP, a leading provider of globally integrated and port-centric supply chain, transportation, and logistics solutions, announced today that it has been appointed as the logistics service provider for Automotive Cells Company (ACC). ACC, a joint venture between Saft, Stellantis N.V. and Mercedes-Benz, has the ambition to become a leader in the production of Electric Vehicle (EV) batteries.
PSA BDP will handle the contract logistics and hinterland transportation for ACC’s first gigafactory in Europe, located in Billy-Berclau, France.
The company says the move into the EV battery vertical builds on its experience in developing bespoke and sustainable supply chain solutions for customers in high-care industries and is a natural extension of its capabilities and expertise.
The transportation to and from ACC’s gigafactory will be routed through PSA BDP’s 22,000 square metre purpose-built and designed warehouse in Dunkirk. This specialized warehouse is BREEAM certified and meets the highest standards for sustainable EV battery handling.
Besides ACC, the PSA BDP Dunkirk warehouse will also provide logistics and storage services for other customers within the EV battery sector. Ideally located in the heart of the Port of Dunkirk, the warehouse has excellent intermodal connectivity, enabling PSA BDP to deploy sustainable intermodal solutions such as e-trucks, e-barges and rail transportation to achieve ACC's ambition of zero emissions and enabling circular supply chains.
“PSA BDP is thrilled and honoured to be selected as ACC’s supply chain partner in this transformational project,” said Vincent Ng, CEO of Enterprise Growth at PSA BDP. “The EV vertical is poised for explosive growth in Europe and PSA BDP is well-positioned to become one of the key logistics service providers for this burgeoning industry. The partnership with ACC allows us to collaborate with one of the premiere EV players and with key stakeholders in the Hauts-De-France logistics ecosystem to co-create innovative supply chain solutions.”
“Sustainability is a key priority for ACC and PSA BDP. Besides working on decarbonisation initiatives, PSA BDP will explore solutions with various stakeholders to enable recycling of end-of-life batteries, and to facilitate circularity in supply chains,” added Luc Geysen, Director of Enterprise Growth at PSA BDP.
BSM celebrates 25 years of its presence in Singapore during Singapore Maritime Week
Around 300 guests from the maritime industry attended a cocktail reception at the National Gallery yesterday to celebrate 25 years of BSM in Singapore. Speakers emphasised the pioneering role of BSM, which was one of the first third-party ship managers in Singapore.
Eurasia, member of the Schulte Group and one of the predecessors of today’s BSM, started its ship management activities in Singapore 25 years ago. With this foundation, the Schulte Group established a second foothold in East Asia besides Hong Kong. In 2008, the four Schulte Group ship management companies – Eurasia Group, Hanseatic Shipping, Dorchester Atlantic Marine, Vorsetzen Bereederungs- und Schiffahrtskontor – merged under the single brand Bernhard Schulte Shipmanagement.
Today, BSM Singapore is part of a global network of 11 ship management, 25 crew service and four maritime training centres worldwide consolidated under the BSM brand and one of the largest DoC-holders in the state.
At the anniversary celebration, Capt. Raymond Peter, Managing Director of BSM Singapore, took a look at the company's past, present and future. “At the time, Eurasia started in Singapore with three employees and three ships in management. 25 years later I am proud to say that BSM Singapore employs nearly 240 highly skilled people from 17 different nationalities. Our ship management pool comprises more than 140 ships. We are strongly embedded in the Southeast Asia region and beyond – serving ship owners from Singapore, Malaysia, Thailand and Indonesia as well as from Japan, Europe and China.”
BSM Singapore is leading in the management of gas carriers and has a growing fleet of vessels with modern LNG dual fuel engines. “Developing our management capabilities for vessels using alternative fuels such as LNG, but also methanol and ammonia is a high priority for us as we play an active part in the transition to CO2 neutral shipping”, Peter outlined.
Johann Schulte (pictured), majority shareholder of the Schulte Group, emphasised the importance of Singapore not just as a hub for BSM but for the entire Group. “Of the different possible locations, the management had considered 25 years ago, Singapore stood out offering pro-business policies as well as a stable and efficient infrastructure for a safe and transparent environment for international companies. This still stands today and more than ever, as Singapore maintains its position as the leading maritime capital of the world.”
Today, in addition to BSM, the Bernhard Schulte House in Singapore hosts Bernhard Schulte Singapore Holdings, established as regional headquarters of the Group. Several Group functions have been shifted to Singapore including a large part of the ship owning business as well as Schulte Group’s maritime digital solutions arm, MariApps Marine Solutions, headquartered in Singapore since 2014.
In total, almost 600 people currently work for the Schulte Group and its numerous entities in Singapore.
“The decision to go to Singapore was spot on,” Schulte concluded. “There are many people we should thank today, namely all past Managing Directors and Capt. Raymond Peter, who now heads BSM in Singapore. In addition, I thank the decision-makers of the time for their vision, foresight and entrepreneurial spirit, in particular Rajaish Bajpaee, who was Managing Director of Eurasia in 1998, and Tobias Pinker, who heads the Group’s regional headquarters and who has been instrumental in the growth of our Group over the past decades."
Ms. Tan Beng Tee (pictured), Executive Director of the Singapore Maritime Foundation (SMF) and Senior Advisor at the Maritime and Port Authority of Singapore (MPA) attended the event as the guest-of-honour.
In her speech, Ms. Tan thanked BSM for being in Singapore for 25 years and congratulated the company for its many achievements over the years. She recalled how BSM started with a small, rented office in International Plaza and under the name of Eurasia headed by Mr. Bajpaee. BSM now owns an office building – the Bernhard Schulte House. From an initial port agency function, the Group has expanded into ship management and other marine services including maritime digital solutions.
Ms. Tan also expressed her appreciation to BSM for taking an active interest in developing local talent partnering the MPA and the SMF to build the next generation of maritime ready workforce. She hoped that Singapore’s partnership with the Schulte Group will grow from strength to strength for many more years to come.
Highly successful Singapore Maritime Week draws to a close
The 17th Singapore Maritime Week (SMW 2023) closed this week after one of its most successful editions ever, comprising nearly 50 separate events over the period 24-28 April. Themed ‘Ambition Meets Action’, it focused on initiatives to accelerate digitalisation and decarbonisation of the maritime industry.
SMW 2023 was officially launched by Mr S Iswaran, Singapore’s Minister for Transport and Minister-in-charge of Trade Relations. Speaking at the Opening Ceremony (pictured), he emphasised three areas of ambition for continued growth and success in the maritime industry: ensuring steady progress for maritime decarbonisation, aligning international standards in the move towards greater digitalisation, and redoubling efforts to attract and nurture talent.
IMO Secretary-General Mr Kitack LIM delivered the keynote address at the opening ceremony. He highlighted that IMO Member States are currently actively engaged in upgrading IMO’s Strategy on the reduction of GHG emissions from international shipping by July this year, adding that collaboration, information-sharing, and capacity-building were key to ensuring that no one is left behind in the push for decarbonisation, where he said Member States needed boldness to elevate their level of vision and ambition.
To commemorate the 75th anniversary of the adoption of the IMO Convention and 25th anniversary of the IMO-Singapore MoU on the Third Country Training Programme, Mr Iswaran announced that Singapore will pledge a new enhanced technical co-operation and training package of USD 5 million for the 2024 to 2028 period comprising fellowships, scholarships, workshops, and courses for IMO and its Member States, with the initial USD 2 million committed for 2024 and 2025.
The Minister also congratulated Lloyd’s Register Maritime Decarbonisation Hub, the winner of the Singapore-IMO NextGEN Connect Challenge, on its proposal titled ‘Development of a Route-Based Action Plan Methodology based upon the Silk Alliance’. He added that Singapore and the IMO were looking forward to working with them, as well as other stakeholders in the Silk Alliance on the implementation of their plans.
Co-organised by the MPA, the IMO NextGEN Connect Challenge was launched at the SMW last year as an invitation for submissions to develop a robust methodology that stakeholders could use to develop specific, route-based action plans to reduce greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions between specific points along a shipping route in the Asia Pacific region. The LR Maritime Decarbonisation Hub will now work with the MPA and IMO with the aim of generating a spill-over effect of knowledge, capability and investment gained from LR’s Singapore-based Silk Alliance green corridor cluster and First Mover Framework methodology into the wider region, thereby also helping Less Developed Countries (LDCs) and Small Island Developing States (SIDS) in Asia Pacific.
Underscoring the importance of partnerships and Singapore’s commitment to decarbonise and digitalise the maritime industry, MPA also signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) during the week with the Port of Los Angeles (POLA), and Port of Long Beach (POLB), with the support of C40 Cities, to establish a green and digital shipping corridor (GDSC) between Singapore and the San Pedro Bay port complex. It also signed a Letter of Intent (LOI) with 8eightclass societies, all Recognised Organisations of the Singapore Registry of Ships, to collaborate on digitalisation and decarbonisation, and an MOU with Wärtsilä Group to do the same.
Anchor events held during the week included the MarineTech conference and Sea Asia exhibition, as well as MPA’s 2nd Accelerating Decarbonisation Conference.
Svitzer selected as towage provider at Fawley Refinery
Svitzer announces that it has secured a 7-year contract with ExxonMobil to provide towage services at Fawley Refinery. This contract reinforces Svitzer’s position in the UK and will increase synergies with the port of Southampton.
The contract was awarded after an open-tender process, in which Svitzer demonstrated its ability to utilise assets across Fawley and Southampton to provide a more efficient solution for ExxonMobil. Svitzer already owns the three tugs operating at Fawley Refinery and the intention is to continue operating them with existing personnel, with the crews being offered to continue in their current roles, but as Svitzer employees.
The contract includes the provision of line handling as well as operation of three launch boats and two mooring pontoons. Two shore-based staff will spend the majority of their time servicing the Fawley operation, ensuring that ExxonMobil has a face-to-face contact readily available, and that crew have a support network for ensuring compliance, maintenance, storing and day-to-day operations run smoothly.
The Fawley deal furthers Svitzer’s long-standing position as a leading towage provider in the UK, including a harbour towage operation in nearby Southampton, which has been servicing a wide range of customers for more than 15 years. In addition to the tugs operating at Fawley, Svitzer currently operates five tugs in nearby Southampton.
Commenting on the announcement, Lise Demant, Managing Director, Svitzer Europe, said: “We are very proud to have been selected as the provider for towage services at the Fawley Refinery, and excited to provide our high-quality towage services to ExxonMobil. This contract is a great win for all of us at Svitzer. It enables us to grow our position in the UK, while driving synergies with our existing harbour towage operations at the port of Southampton, and welcoming new, skilled colleagues into the Svitzer family.”
Shortlist for Nor-Shipping Ocean Solutions Award announced
A high-quality field of entrants for the second Nor-Shipping Ocean Solutions Award led to a heated jury debate and an expansion of the shortlist from the planned four to five competing nominees.
The accolade, open to exhibitors and invited Nor-Shipping participants, aims to showcase breakthrough innovations at, or approaching, commercialisation stage. Daphne Technology won the inaugural prize in 2022, with this year’s winner set to be revealed in front of an audience of key industry decision makers at the Nor-Shipping Ocean Leadership Conference on 6 June.
Announced today, 2023’s shortlist consists of: VARD Group’s Ocean Charger Concept; Silverstream Technologies’ air lubrication system; the Oceanbird wind assist technology from the Alfa Laval/Wallenius joint venture Alfawall; WinGD’s variable compression ratio technology for two-stroke marine engines; and Kongsberg Digital’s Vessel Insight and Kognifai Marketplace.
“There was a vast field of entrants this year, covering a broad spectrum of maritime technology and innovation,” comments Sidsel Norvik, Director, Nor-Shipping. “The standard was so high that it proved impossible to identify only four stand-out nominees, leaving five to fight it out – all of whom can be rightfully proud of their achievement so far.
“Each of these solutions demonstrate how the industry is rising to challenges, realising opportunities and setting course for a more sustainable, profitable ocean future. I’m looking forward to seeing the eventual winner crowned and celebrated in front of an A-list crowd of industry executives in June.”
The entries on the shortlist were selected by an international jury of experts, each of who was tasked to assess nominations on the criteria of: originality of the service, design, concept or equipment item; impact with regard to either ocean sustainability, logistics, or ship operation; addressing current or anticipated challenges for the industry; expected benefit for the industry generally, and to users/customers specifically; and applying best practices or ideas from other industries.
Each candidate impressed the judges with their ingenuity and potential to revolutionize the industry.
VARD’s Ocean Charger project aims to develop an offshore charging solution for battery-powered ships, while Silverstream Technologies’ air lubrication system is already enjoying commercial success reducing friction, and enhancing efficiency, for ship hulls.
AlfaWall’s Oceanbird folding wing sails, which have more in common with airplane wings than traditional sails, can transform the viability of wind power for large deep-sea vessels, while WinGD’s variable compression ratio technology allows for enhanced fuel consumption and emissions, delivering the flexibility needed for optimal use of alternative fuels.
Finally, Kongsberg Digital’s Vessel Insight infrastructure service, which gives access to the Kognifai marketplace, is the only open ship-to-cloud data infrastructure on the market. The solution enables ship owners and operators to connect any data source onboard from any manufacturer, transmitting the data to the cloud for standardization and contextualization.
Nor-Shipping 2023 runs from 6-9 June in Lillestrøm and Oslo. In addition to the main exhibition and the Ocean Leadership Conference, a range of themed conferences include the first ever Nor-Shipping Offshore Wind and Offshore Aquaculture Conferences, the Second Maritime Hydrogen Conference, and the Fourth International Autonomy Summit.
Proman Stena Bulk holds naming ceremony for methanol tanker in Port of Rotterdam
Proman Stena Bulk, the joint venture between leading tanker company Stena Bulk and the leading methanol producer Proman, has formally named the third of its state-of-the-art methanol-fuelled 49,900 DWT tankers Stena Promise, in a ceremony held last week in Rotterdam.
The naming ceremony, which was held near the city’s famous Erasmusbrug, saw dignitaries and guests from both Proman and Stena Bulk, as well as from across the maritime industry, gather to celebrate the methanol-fuelled joint venture fleet. This was the first Naming Ceremony for a methanol-fuelled vessel held in the Port of Rotterdam.
The attendees heard speeches from David Cassidy, CEO of Proman, Erik Hånell, President & CEO of Stena Bulk, and Mr Gary Ge Xiujiang, Deputy Managing Director of Sales Department, Guangzhou Shipyard International (GSI), the shipyard that built Proman Stena Bulk’s tankers.
Dr Hilary Cassidy, the vessel’s godmother, successfully ended the ceremony with a traditional champagne christening. All guests were welcomed on board the Stena Promise for a short visit.
The naming ceremony was held in Rotterdam in recognition of the port’s unique contribution to the maritime decarbonisation agenda. The Port is the largest methanol hub in north-western Europe, and ship-to-ship bunkering has taken place at the port successfully several times, including for the first JV vessel Stena Pro Patria in August 2022.
There is growing momentum around methanol as a marine fuel, with over 106 methanol-fuelled ships on order as of the end of March according to analysis from class society DNV. This includes container lines, dry bulk and tanker orders, as well as leading names from the cruise sector.
Stena Promise was delivered in November 2022. All four vessels in the IMOIIMeMax series have demonstrated an unprecedentedly low EEDI (Energy Efficiency Design Index) value while running on methanol.
Proman Stena Bulk’s IMOIIMeMax vessel series benefits from industry-leading design improvements and technologies to maximise energy efficiency, resulting in an EEDI 11% below the 2025 Phase 3 requirements – setting a new benchmark for methanol-fuelled tankers and further proving the operational viability of methanol as a marine fuel.
During its commercial operations, Stena Promise has already been operating full time on conventional methanol from natural gas. The vessel will use approximately 11,500 tonnes of methanol as fuel per year, significantly reducing GHG emissions compared to conventional marine fuels.
Speaking about the naming ceremony, David Cassidy, Chief Executive of Proman, said: “Stena Promise is the third state-of-the-art methanol tanker we have brought to market with Stena Bulk, and the first fully Proman-owned vessel in our fleet. She is a very special vessel for us, and it is fantastic to be able to use her naming ceremony as a driver to convene with partners, friends and industry leaders in Rotterdam at a pivotal time for the shipping industry’s low-carbon transition.
“We need to ensure that regulatory incentives and market-based measures continue to drive capital to projects which can deliver real, meaningful and immediate emissions reductions. And to do that we need to work with partners across the entire industry and shipping value chain to make green shipping a reality.”
Erik Hånell, President and CEO of Stena Bulk, added: “The naming ceremony for Stena Promise is another step in our cooperation between Stena Bulk and Proman to prove the viability of methanol as a marine fuel. By gathering in Rotterdam – one of the industry’s most important bunkering hubs – we are once again underlining that methanol operation is technically feasible today. We are proud to continue working with our partners at Proman to advance our shared vision for methanol.”
FrontM launches ChatGPT for Maritime
FrontM, the “Intelligent Collaboration. Anywhere®” platform for the maritime industry, announces the launch of ChatGPT integration to enable its partners and customers to incorporate the advancement of AI for crew connectivity, engagement, streamlined information and access to care.
By utilising its superapp and low-code developer framework to enable use cases such as telehealth, video conferencing, virtual events, remote assistance and tracking & monitoring for ships, the platform enhances connectivity between ship and shore teams.
In an industry that has regularly been criticised for moving slowly to embrace new technologies, to say that FrontM's integration has been fast-tracked seems like an understatement. FrontM's mission to solve the connectivity and efficiency challenges that maritime businesses and their mobile workforces or customers face, when operating in remote and low bandwidth environments, could not get a bigger boost than what Generative AI can unlock. No-one can ignore the breakthroughs in the last six months in the AI world.
One of FrontM's end-user solutions is called onship, the maritime superapp. onship is free for everyone to try and is available via Google Play Store, Apple App Store and the web at onship.app. onship contains an app marketplace with built-in text, voice and video communication, e-wallet and closed user group collaboration that breaks silos between ship and shore. Emma, the Virtual Assistant is a universal chatbot for seafarers to obtain helpful information at the flick of a finger.
FrontM's low-code developer framework enables many other conversational AI use cases to be rapidly developed for partners, be it for seafarers' safety, assistance with the routine and exigent duties and responsibilities at sea. onship superapp scales to become the universal maritime digital touch point for seafarers.
Imagine a Captain was calling at the lesser known port of Laayoune in Morocco and needed to know about ship chandlers, other than what the Agent could tell him. He simply asks Emma and she can give him the names and contact details of four such suppliers, in twenty seconds enabling a direct call from onship’s built-in communication tools.
“A useful and equally beneficial requirement, may be that the Chief Cook wants to prepare something new for an upcoming weekend barbecue party to boost crew morale! Emma can help him with some new recipes using onboard ingredients! In fact, the “Cooky” can soon share text and images of the menu with his shipmates through onship and create much anticipation and excitement!" said Captain. Vishal Patangay, Master Mariner and Head of Customer Success of FrontM
FrontM is a partnership-centric company and is harnessing the app ecosystem by using a collaborative approach to accelerate maritime digitalisation and establish the future of work for seafarers and maritime workforces.
"With our advanced integration of chatGPT to our platform, we are expanding generative AI’s reach into maritime environments and various use cases.. I am personally excited at each opportunity to exploit the full potential of AI and unlock greater value for maritime partners, operators and seafarers," says Guillermo Acilu, CTO of FrontM.
Edda Wind repeat order for MacGregor offshore wind service vessel technology
MacGregor, part of Cargotec, has extended its run of orders for walk-to-work gangway technology from Edda Wind, after receiving a contract to equip the 8th service vessel in succession for the Østensjø Group operation. The new walk-to-work system contract was booked into Cargotec’s first quarter 2023 orders received and the vessel will be delivered in the third quarter of 2024.
Once again, the vessel will be equipped with MacGregor’s distinctive Horizon, all-electric walk-to-work gangway - the sector-leading sustainable technology whose ability to deliver lowest possible emissions significantly reduces the vessel’s overall environmental footprint. The redundancy level of the equipment exceeds class requirements, ensuring the minimum level of unplanned downtime.
The Horizon gangway also ensures optimised logistics flow, offering the widest gangway bridge currently available and the largest passenger lift integrated on a gangway tower structure, which offers stepless connection from deck levels to gangway level. Its safety and efficiency are enhanced by an augmented reality operator station (AROS), which also increases logistics support by allowing a single operator to seamlessly change between crane and gangway operation from a centralised control station on the vessel's bridge. The system is also interconnected to a Colibri 5 tonne 3D motion compensated crane, whose design is distinguished by its agility in compensating loads in 3D mode.
The order is a result of MacGregor’s long collaboration with Edda Wind, and MacGregor’s involvement from an early design stage has ensured that the position of the equipment is optimised for overall vessel efficiency.
"MacGregor is delighted to have yet another order to supply critical equipment to the Edda Wind newbuildings,” says Pasi Lehtonen, SVP, Offshore Solutions Division. “This is the 8th in the series of walk-to-work systems delivered to Edda Wind. We acknowledge the market validation of our capabilities in equipping this type of SOV system globally. It also reaffirms our strong commitment to provide enhanced sustainable solutions and services to our customers."
SEDNA and Veson Nautical maritime integration upgraded to enhance voyage management
SEDNA and Veson Nautical have announced a significant update to their maritime integration offering. The update is set to transform the way that maritime professionals can action and advance the status of multiple voyages at any one time, ultimately simplifying the shipping process and enhancing commercial maritime operations.
For SEDNA, the Veson IMOS Platform (VIP) integration will now provide mutual clients who have opted in with access to more extensive data—like voyage number, vessel code, voyage status, ETA, fuel on departure, vessel details and cargo details—for an increased number of voyages all from within the SEDNA platform.
Presenting an expanded, centralised hub of data gives shipping operators, as well as vessel owners and charterers, the safety of knowing that they have the latest voyage details from the comfort of their inbox and can therefore quickly and efficiently enrich their outgoing emails with this detailed information. For example, through real-time tracking and surfacing of critical voyage data like itinerary changes and fuel on departure from VIP, operators can now optimise their voyages through swiftly sharing ship position updates and operational reports straight from within their SEDNA inbox.
By bringing key data from SEDNA and VIP into one space, the improved integration can save significant time and provide users with a seamless working experience, enabling speedier decision-making and more efficient operations. The integration also reduces the risk of human error that could otherwise occur when copying and pasting information across platforms.
Bill Dobie, Founder and CEO, SEDNA, said: “Today, maritime professionals have to process more complex information than ever before, so we need our digital platforms to be as easy and efficient to use as possible - working for us and not the other way around. This means having immediate access to important, real-time data to deliver on voyages and enhance shipping performance.”
“With their global leadership in maritime freight management, I am delighted that we are expanding our partnership with Veson Nautical to advance our shared vision to use the power of technology to push maritime operations forward. Through this enhanced partnership, the shipping sector can further its leading role driving world trade and the global economy.”
CEO and Co-Founder of Veson Nautical, John Veson, explained: “We are pleased to be collaborating with SEDNA on these enhanced integration capabilities. Providing our clients with data-driven decision support where, when, and how they need it is a key priority for us. By breaking down barriers between our clients’ critical systems, we can create a more streamlined and contextual experience that supports optimized workflows.”
SEDNA first collaborated with Veson Nautical in July 2021, launching an integration that could utilise data from the Veson IMOS Platform from within SEDNA to enable organisations and team members within the maritime sector to work more effectively. At present, maritime clients already using the current integration include Norvic Shipping, MOL Chemical Tankers, Western Bulk, Ardmore Shipping, Bunge, NORDEN, and others.
Transport industry on the cusp of digital change, says SHIPNEXT founder
The widescale adoption of technology such as Artificial Intelligence (AI) will soon make shipping cargo as simple as finding directions using Google Maps, the founder of freight platform SHIPNEXT has told an audience of more than 700 shippers and freight forwarders.
Considering there are only around 87,000 commercial ships in the world, Alexander Varvarenko – a software developer and entrepreneur – said the “Uberization” of the shipping business was a relatively easy proposition.
Speaking at the recent JOC Breakbulk & Project Cargo Conference in New Orleans, SHIPNEXT CEO Alexander Varvarenko said: “Early automation, data-gathering and machine learning are all the steps you need to take to get to AI – which is predictive decision making, and not all that complex.
“There are only around 87,000 commercial ships in the world – not that much in terms of business modelling. Once you input a shipping date, quantity of the cargo and you name the limitations, restrictions, the available material in the port and so on, it reduces the amount of ships that are suitable. So, teaching a system to take a decision or guide you on the right decision, based on economic or environmental factors, for instance, is not that difficult.
“It's not going to take a long time until we see AI helping us ship cargo.”
Varvarenko expanded on how the shipping business will benefit from ChatGPT – a chatbot capable of writing essays and scripts and solving computer coding by capturing information from the internet.
Noting that the adoption of AI in solutions like ChatGPT was far more complex than in shipping, Varvarenko said: “If you start shipping today using conventional means, your decision is based either on one of the companies you know, or the emails and messages that you receive. But there's a limit to how much data you can process by yourself.
“If you were to ask ChatGPT to help you find the best way of shipping cargo, it would currently say, I'm not yet connected to the shipping data, therefore I'm not able to help. But it will only be a very short while until ChatGPT is connected to this data, and then it will start producing the information. You can already try for yourself today, and you will see that the AI gets stronger by the day in learning shipping.
“And it's all real-time, it's 24-7. There is no limit to how much data that neural network can actually swallow, calculate, and produce every nanosecond.”
Varvarenko’s platform, SHIPNEXT, is a blockchain-driven digital shipping marketplace that uses natural language processing, machine learning, linear programming, AI and big data analysis to generate the best shipping and transport solutions.
Alexander Varvarenko was speaking as part of a panel session entitled Taming the Data: Using Artificial Intelligence to Streamline Project Cargo Logistics. Fellow speakers were Matthew Costello, founder and CEO of Voyager Portal; and Cynthia Worley, vice president of strategic accounts, SEDNA.
IMRF launches #FutureSAR climate change initiative in collaboration with Lloyd's Register Foundation
The International Maritime Rescue Federation (IMRF) has launched its #FutureSAR initiative that will look to identify the key challenges the global maritime search and rescue (SAR) industry will face as a result of climate change and propose guidance and best practices that will aid rescue operations in the future.
The initiative, which is being funded by Lloyd’s Register Foundation, is the world’s first SAR industry-wide response to the effects of climate change on the maritime SAR sector as coastal communities, maritime activity and the infrastructure that they depend on become exposed to increasing risks.
#FutureSAR will look at how SAR services may be able to deal with climate change-related challenges, such as new rescue scenarios like storm surges, implementing new technologies such as alternative fuels, and protecting infrastructure such as lifeboat facilities.
“Climate change and the climate transition will have a major impact on maritime industries and communities. The #FutureSAR project will evaluate how SAR services will need to adapt to these profound challenges and provide a blueprint for future research and resources to help the SAR sector continue to serve the maritime community effectively,” said Caroline Jupe, Chief Executive Officer of the IMRF.
“SAR services operate in a changing risk landscape and must continually evolve to keep pace with the risks facing the communities they serve and their own operations, staff and volunteers. We are pleased to partner with the IMRF on the #FutureSAR initiative, which contributes to our mission of securing appropriate technical, operational and performance responses to climate change to enhance safety of life and property at sea,” said Jan Pryzdatek, Director of Technologies at Lloyd’s Register Foundation.
The IMRF will launch a working group, consisting of SAR organisations, technical institutes and engineering specialists, that will produce a report on the Climate Transition for Maritime SAR Services in 2024 that will be freely available to SAR organisations around the world to implement best practices for climate change-related challenges.
The #FutureSAR initiative will also look at ways the global maritime SAR community can contribute to the wider shipping industry’s drive to decarbonise and achieve net zero.
To find out more about the #FutureSAR initiative, please visit the IMRF’s dedicated initiative homepage: https://www.international-maritime-rescue.org/futuresar.
ABS and Seatrium advance pioneering digital transformation with Smart Yard initiatives
ABS and Seatrium Limited (Seatrium) have joined forces to empower and transform the industry through smart technologies to further enhance the seamless digital experience and to raise safety, productivity and efficiency to greater heights.
At Singapore Maritime Week, ABS launched detailed requirements to guide the industry in the application of smart technologies at shipyards and recognize Seatrium as the first shipyard group to deploy smart technologies in its operations, in line with the ABS ‘Guide for Smart Technologies for Shipyards’.
Seatrium’s Mobile Wearable Personal Device (MWPD) Monitoring System, which leverages the internet of things (IOT) and platform technologies has also received Product Design Assessment (PDA) approval from ABS.
The MWPD Monitoring System by Seatrium is integrated into smart devices that are deployed shipyard wide. These devices are worn on the wrists and promise to enhance the overall health and safety of shipyard workers with features such as fall detection, geo-location, emergency connectivity and real-time safety notifications.
The devices can be monitored via a command centre to help improve response time to emergencies and deploy safety messages more effectively.
“The transition toward digitalisation is moving fast in shipbuilding, and ABS is leading the industry by partnering with pioneers such as Seatrium,” said Christopher J. Wiernicki, ABS Chairman, President and CEO. “Smart technology can improve design, fabrication and operational processes as well as improve the health, safety and quality processes in shipyards. Our guide is a key step in supporting others in their digitalisation journey.”
Seatrium CEO Chris Ong said: “The smart device is another example of how Seatrium is harnessing digital technologies as part of our broader strategy to transform our workforce, products and services in support of our order book, while achieving safety and operational excellence to further augment our Smart Yard vision. We are glad to collaborate with ABS to advance smart technologies for the industries and create value which will benefit all stakeholders.”
The recognition from ABS for the wearable device monitoring system is among the many ongoing collaborative efforts between ABS and Seatrium to pioneer digital transformation for the offshore, marine and energy industries through a multi-year joint development project (JDP).
Also under the JDP, ABS and Seatrium will collaborate on further smart yard initiatives covering a wide range of innovative digital solutions, such as the remote inspection using smart glasses with 5G technology to enhance the surveying process during and after the construction of a vessel.
Since 2022, Seatrium has launched the 5G infrastructure across its yard operations to future-proof yard-wide connectivity, which will enable the trial and deployment of multiple-use cases, including an augmented reality (AR) and virtual reality (VR) remote inspection platform and smart video analytics.
Prior to this, ABS and Seatrium have collaborated in a series of significant smart function development projects. The ongoing joint efforts to further advance the use of smart functions in the energy sector includes developing a suite of intelligent energy management functionality onboard Seatrium’s Floating Living Lab to enable a self-generating smart microgrid within the shipyard.
The Floating Living Lab is a pioneering initiative that has received a first-of-its-kind approval in principle (AIP) award from ABS. The system includes asset performance and distributed energy resource operation equipment for predictive health monitoring that can be remotely monitored from Seatrium’s command centre over a 5G network to drive operational excellence, maximize asset performances and minimize asset lifecycle cost.
HGK Shipping and Port of Rotterdam Authority sign cooperation agreement for greater sustainability on inland waterways
HGK Shipping and the Port of Rotterdam Authority signed a long-term cooperation agreement to promote sustainable concepts for inland waterway services leading to and from seaports on 20 April 2023.
The document primarily focuses on the energy revolution and logistics for hydrogen, as well as reducing CO2 emissions by using innovative drive concepts and digitalisation. These topics are crucially important to ensure reliable and sustainable supplies for industry. The agreement ensures that stable supply chains will continue between Germany and the Netherlands, and within Europe.
As part of the cooperation arrangement, Europe's largest inland waterway shipping company and Europe’s largest seaport will maintain close ties to share information and jointly examine the possibilities that open up for both partners. For example, a reliable supply chain for hydrogen and hydrogen derivates as well as alternative renewable fuels is due to be established to promote the energy revolution.
Among other things, the partners will analyse how the need for services to transport, store and tranship alternative energy sources will probably develop. Another important factor in this connection is how to make the inland waterway fleet more ecologically friendly and draw up implementation concepts for renewable engine fuels.
HGK Shipping and the Port of Rotterdam Authority also intend to enhance transparency along supply chains in order to be able to organise procedures in a more efficient, flexible and sustainable manner. The goal here is to involve other stakeholders, in addition to exchanging information about the quantities and types of goods that are transported and transhipped, for example. This is set to take place through cooperation on digital platform initiatives, which support communications and the exchange of information for all the partners involved in the supply chain and which are working to achieve standardisation further inland.
Matthijs van Doorn (pictured, left), Vice-President Commercial at Port of Rotterdam Authority: “We are very pleased with the enhanced cooperation with HGK Shipping. Cross border initiatives with strong and ambitious partners in the areas of energy transition and digitalisation are of paramount importance to reach our goal of becoming a CO2 neutral port by 2050.
“Inland shipping plays a crucial role in supplying hydrogen to the European market and at the same time this sector has the best credentials to do so in a sustainable and efficient way by sailing on alternative fuels and using innovative techniques.”
Steffen Bauer (pictured, right), the CEO of HGK Shipping, comments, “The port of Rotterdam is assuming a key role in supplying European industries and the energy sector as the hydrogen economy is launched. As an important hydrogen port, it depends on efficient connections to destinations further inland – and we at HGK Shipping are able to handle them through our inland waterway system.
“By working together, we can develop the future flows of supplies for the energy sector, but also for our parent company, the City of Cologne Public Utilities Group, and therefore enable reliable and dependable access to renewable energy sources.”
Sea bridges gap in digitising freight industry with acquisition of MarDocs
Sea, the intelligent marketplace for fixing freight, has announced the agreed purchase of MarDocs - a recap and charterparty management platform - from Marcura, alongside a new strategic partnership between the two companies. This will further accelerate Sea’s progress in digitising and managing chartering workflows from pre-fixture negotiation to documentation.
Providing the preferred platform for recaps and charterparties across all market segments, reflected in an annualised volume of over 43,000 fixtures and in use by over 800 customers and 550 broking companies, Sea now bridges the documentation gap in the industry benefitting charterers, brokers, and owners.
Sea says the acquisition marks a new era, particularly in the wet markets where documentation management is an acute challenge with contracts dispersed across different platforms. Sea’s ecosystem enables management of the entire fixture process, providing simplicity, driving greater efficiencies, and streamlining processes.
Sea will be working closely with Marcura to ensure all MarDocs customers are transitioned to the Recap Manager platform. This will mean clients - including some of the largest oil companies in the world - now benefit from the enlarged offering.
Sea will also form a new strategic partnership with Marcura, a collaboration which will help in driving the industry towards greater digitisation in freight. This partnership will focus on bringing insights from Marcura’s analysis into the Sea platform and vice-versa, including in-depth analysis of vessel behaviours in port and the cost implications upon the multiple clauses governing port activity.
Peter Schrøder, CEO of Sea, said: “We are very pleased to announce the acquisition of MarDocs, which will move the industry forwards with its digitisation efforts. Together with our clients and partners, we are driving real change in the maritime industry, aiming for a complete ecosystem of workflow solutions that will bring simplicity and efficiency for all companies in this space and benefit the entire value chain.”
Jens Poulsen, Group CEO of Marcura, said: "At Marcura, digitalisation of the seaborne trade execution is a priority. Our aim is to enable a maritime data standard for seamless digitalisation of pre- and post- fixture processes. In selling MarDocs, we can focus on post-fixture solutions that will share data with the freight solutions of Sea.
“We know our customers want fewer and better platforms and more actionable data. We look forward to announcing the first data integrations of Marcura Maritime Master Data with Sea. With PortLog, shipping companies can measure and manage port-related risks and time, leading to better voyage profitability."
A.P. Moller – Maersk to welcome landmark green methanol vessel in Copenhagen this autumn
To celebrate the world’s first container vessel sailing on green methanol, A.P. Moller - Maersk will host a week of festivities, including the name giving event and other activities September 18 – 21 in Copenhagen, Denmark. The 2,100 TEU feeder vessel is a small piece of history in the shipping industry.
The dual-fuel engine vessel will pause in Copenhagen right outside the Maersk headquarters on its way to the Baltic Sea, where she will be operating going forward. The feeder vessel will bring real experience for Maersk seafarers in operating the new type of fuel, as the company prepares to receive a fleet of new, large ocean-going dual-fuel engine powered ships from 2024.
A.P. Moller – Maersk aims to achieve net zero greenhouse gas emissions in 2040 across the entire business. To get there in time, the company aims to transport a minimum 25% of Ocean cargo using green fuels by 2030 compared to a 2020 baseline. Receiving the landmark dual-fuel engine feeder vessel is a major step toward the long-term objective of gradually renewing the entire A.P. Moller – Maersk fleet to operate solely on green fuels and making a tangible impact in the industry’s efforts to reduce greenhouse gas emissions.
The 172-meter-long vessel will leave the Hyundai Mipo Dockyard in Korea this summer to embark on her maiden voyage to Copenhagen. The vessel will have a container capacity of 2,100 TEU and she sails at a designed speed of 17,4 knots.
During her week in Copenhagen, the vessel will formally receive her name during a ceremony at Toldboden, next to the A.P. Moller – Maersk headquarter. A.P. Moller – Maersk will host events for employees, partners, investors, students and the area will be open for the public to take a closer look at the new vessel from the dock and learn more about the efforts to decarbonise the shipping industry.
Baseblue conference explores the future of bunkering and alternative fuels
Global marine energy solution provider Baseblue recently hosted a successful conference titled ‘The Future of Bunkering 2023 and Beyond’ as part of the 10th East Med Expo. The conference featured expert panels and discussions on the role of bunkering in the transition towards a sustainable future, with a particular focus on alternative fuels.
The panel discussions delved into the challenges and opportunities of alternative fuels such as biofuels, hydrogen, LNG, and methanol. The discussions highlighted the importance of alternative fuels and vessel upgraded efficiencies in meeting the IMO’s regulatory requirements for 2030 and beyond. The speakers analysed the immediate pathway to meet these requirements. It was concluded that there is no silver bullet, and a combination of multiple options will be necessary to achieve the required emission reductions.
The conference opened with a welcome address by Mr. Ioannis Efstratiou, Director of the Safety & Environmental Directorate at the Shipping Deputy Ministry of the Republic of Cyprus, who highlighted the importance of collaboration and innovation in the industry's transition towards a sustainable future. Dr. Yiannos Charalambides, a lecturer and geopolitical analyst, provided an overview of the regional shipping and energy landscape.
Mr. Vassilios Demetriades, former Shipping Deputy Minister of the Republic of Cyprus, moderated a panel on regulations and operations in the shipping industry, where the challenges and opportunities of the industry's transition towards a more sustainable future were discussed. The panel (pictured) included Capt. Harpeet Singh, COO of Société de Navigation S.A, Dr. J Kokarakis, VP of Technology of Bureau Veritas, and Mr. Philipos Philis, President of ECSA.
Mr. Christian Stoch Jensen, Head of New Business Development at Global Risk Management, discussed the EU ETS regulation and how to manage risk in the shipping industry. Mr Nicos Attas, Rina Cyprus Marine Manager, spoke about using hydrogen as a marine fuel and analysed its biggest challenges, highlighting the need for more research and investment in infrastructure and technology to overcome these challenges.
Bill Stamatopoulos, Business Development Director of Bureau Veritas, gave a presentation on the role of biofuels in the new regulations landscape. He mentioned that biofuels are an indispensable stepping-stone on the path to decarbonisation. They may be best viewed as only part of a portfolio of decarbonisation options.
The panel on transition and future fuels, moderated by Mr. Erwin Derlagen, COO of Enesel Dry S.A., explored the use of bio/LNG and methanol as future fuels. The panel included Mr Ed Glossop, Head of Sustainable Operations at Bunker Holding, Mr Stamatopoulos, and Ms Kelly Norways, Associate Editor at S&P Global Platts. They discussed the current development and adoption of these fuels and their challenges and opportunities.
"The conference was a great success, with insightful and thought-provoking discussions on the future of bunkering and alternative fuels," mentioned Nicholas Argyrou, Key Account Director of Baseblue. "We are committed to driving innovation and collaboration in the industry to achieve a more sustainable future."
ClassNK releases white paper on design, development and operation of autonomous ships
Regarding the development of Maritime Autonomous Surface Ships (MASS), ClassNK notes that various efforts are gaining momentum worldwide, including the Nippon Foundation MEGURI 2040 Fully Autonomous Ship Program.
The push for international rule establishment has been further intensified as the IMO MSC has agreed on a work plan to set forth mandatory requirements effective from 2028.
In light of the growing possibility of MASS becoming a reality by 2025, ClassNK has published a white paper entitled ‘Towards MASS social implementation’ focusing on ensuring the safety of MASS by leveraging its expertise gained through participation in demonstration projects, standard-setting, related certification, and research on trends within and beyond the maritime industry.
The white paper outlines use cases of MASS, perspectives on safety requirements, gaps with existing technologies, and risk assessments, and also proposes framework for safety assessment at the design and development phase, and the PDCA cycle at the operational phase. It is expected to serve as a reference in discussions among a wide range of MASS stakeholders involved in their development, operation, business creation, and regulatory establishment.
The white paper is available to download via ‘Technical Publications’ of My Page on ClassNK’s website after registration.
AxiomDWFM to acquire to acquire Ince legal business and associated assets
Ince & Co. has announced a Partner-driven transaction to acquire the legal business and associated assets from the Ince Group plc by UK-based law firm AxiomDWFM Limited.
Ince & Co. will be a separate operating entity of AxiomDWFM’s and will be managed independently as a separately branded legal services business. The transaction enables the Partner group of Ince & Co. to refocus the firm’s growth strategy on its core legal services, whilst also improving operations and support structures.
AxiomDWFM’s new ownership provides solid foundations for Ince & Co. to continue its professional service in key sectors such as shipping & energy, aviation, insurance and real estate, along with practices such as dispute resolution, employment, immigration, asset finance, corporate services (including tax), regulatory, family & private wealth and related areas.
AxiomDWFM is a successful, full service legal practice with a number of UK offices founded by its Managing Partner, Pragnesh Modhwadia, who is a practicing solicitor.
Donald Brown, CEO of Ince & Co. said: “This acquisition of the Ince businesses will give the firm, our team and our clients a simple and clear corporate and capital structure under professional, knowledgeable and robust ownership. We are underpinned by a group of immensely talented lawyers with deep expertise in our key sectors.
“After taking over the management of the PLC group, it quickly became apparent that we needed to address a series of poorly structured and executed transactions and expansions.
“We thank our clients and colleagues for their patience and above all, their continued loyalty and support after the uncertainty of recent months. We would also like to thank the non-executive directors and the Board of the PLC for its support through what has been a challenging situation and the AxiomDWFM team for their clear thinking and prompt action after they entered the process with the Group’s administrators. We look forward to moving forward, together.”
Pragnesh Modhwadia said: “We have great confidence in the quality of the Ince & Co business and the lawyers within it and are very excited that, like AxiomDWFM, the firm is built around differentiated areas of great specialism, market positioning and quality of service. When the opportunity came to acquire a business of the calibre of Ince & Co. we were eager to engage and are delighted that the Ince & Co team shared our enthusiasm. We believe we have a great relationship already and a great opportunity together.”
Existing remuneration structures will be honoured and other material liabilities of the business will be funded. All employees transferred into Ince & Co. under their previous terms of employment.
AMP receives the General Secretaries of Mission to Seafarers and Deutsche Seemannsmission
The Panama Maritime Authority (AMP) received the visit of the Secretary General of the Mission to Seafarers (MtS) and the Secretary General of the Deutsche Seemannsmission (DSM) Rev. Canon Andrew Wright as well as Rev. Matthias Ristau, respectively, in order to discuss future joint projects to improve the well-being and conditions of seafarers.
The Director of the General Directorate for Seafarers (DGGM) of the AMP, Capt. Juan Maltez, was in charge of receiving this important international delegation in his office, in which the DSM port Chaplain, Andrea Meenken, the Chaplain MtS port manager as well as MtS Regional Director for Latin America, Father Ian Hutchinson Cervantes, participated.
Capt. Maltez pointed out that the DGGM feels honored for the collaboration, camaraderie, friendship, and mutual commitment shown toward these important international organizations that ensure the well-being and pastoral care of seafarers, reinforced during the most difficult months of the COVID -19 pandemic, the institution's commitment to continue working hand in hand, always offering a comprehensive vision, not only of the physical well-being but also the emotional, psychological and spiritual well-being of seafarers.
At the end of 2019, an Agreement Renewal was carried out, reinforcing the links established between both entities where a support framework is set, through which help is provided, encouraging and promoting the provision of welfare services for seafarers.
In this regard, the request of both organizations was met, to add a Filipino priest to their team in order to provide support to Asian seamen, who represent an important crew on ships that transit through the Canal and ports of Panama, whose interoceanic highway unites more than 140 maritime routes, connecting 1,700 ports and 160 countries.
“Mission to Seafarers (MtS) and Deutsche Seemannsmission (DSM) are two sister mission agencies that share with AMP the common interest of working for the welfare and care of seafarers, who are the people who work on ships and makes international trade possible. That is why we want to deepen our relations with the AMP, where we already have an MOU and during the COVID-19 pandemic they helped us manage the needs of seafarers, such as safe-conduct for port facilities, health care, vaccines and above all, their support for seafarers so that they could carry out crew changes in Panama, being one of the first countries where this could be achieved”, indicated Father Ian Hutchinson Cervantes.
The Mission to Seafarers is a global charity, whose objectives and goals are to provide for the moral, physical and spiritual well-being of seafarers and their families throughout the world while operating in two hundred (200) ports in fifty (50) countries, offering a range of services, among which are, visiting seafarers on their ships to offer them assistance, access to communication, transport from the ship to the city, counseling services, spiritual support and well-being.
The German Seamen's Mission (DSM) with its international office in Hamburg is one of the oldest organizations of the Evangelical Church in Germany (EKD). Since the mid-19th century, the DSM has provided pastoral care and social work to seafarers from around the world on ships, seamens' clubs, and sailors' houses on various continents. The work is carried out regardless of the origin and religion of the ship's crews.
MTF gathered industry leaders during Singapore Maritime Week to discuss decarbonisation challenges
The Maritime Technologies Forum (MTF) brought together industry stakeholders during Singapore Maritime Week to investigate the findings and implications of its latest report, ‘Operational Management to Accelerate Safe Maritime Decarbonisation’.
The event included a presentation of the report’s main findings by author Yildiz Williams of Lloyd’s Register and a panel comprising Christopher J Wiernicki, Chairman, President and CEO of ABS; Nick Brown, CEO of Lloyd’s Register; Caroline Yang, President of Singapore Shipping Association; Ninad Mhatre, Managing Director of Zeaborn Ship Management and John Lloyd, CEO of The Nautical Institute, and was moderated by Pierre Sames, Strategic Development Director for DNV.
The report focuses on the suitability of existing maritime regulations to manage the challenges presented by the adoption of new fuel types across the maritime supply chain. These include the ISM Code, the STCW Convention and Maritime Labour Convention, assessing each for gaps and making recommendations and identifying urgent needs, the relevant actors and barriers to change.
It concludes that there are critical gaps related to safety management, crew training and safety culture onboard ship that need to be closed to enable a safe transition to a decarbonized shipping industry. Strengthening each of these elements will be vital to achieve safe operations with alternative fuels, it finds.
The panel discussed the global challenges around alternative fuel adoption as well as the specific knowledge and experience that seafarers, vessel operators, ship managers and regulators need to acquire in a short time span. The report underlines the need for a blend of regulation, industry guidelines, best practices and government support to close the gaps ahead of current and future decarbonisation deadlines.
“Class, as well as flag States are built for the intersection between technology, safety and regulations and when you look at where we are and the steepness of the curve ahead, the biggest risk is the unintended safety consequences of change,” said Chris Wiernicki. “We’re moving away from a static fuel environment towards a dynamic fuel environment and recognizing that safety is the mantra of this business, we must be prepared.”
“Seafarers are central to achieving the maritime industry’s decarbonisation ambitions and some 450,000 crew require extra training between now and 2030. However, training does not equate to competence. We have 700 LNG fuel-capable ships on the water today but few of them have been regularly using LNG, challenging trained crews’ familiarity around onboard equipment and bunkering procedures,” said Nick Brown.
“As an industry, we need ensure that when crew are trained, they can maintain competency in managing the multiple fuels and technologies they will encounter during this transition.”
Hapag-Lloyd opens new office in Romania
Hapag-Lloyd last week opened a new office in Romania. Bordering five European countries and with direct access to the Black Sea, Romania is an attractive growth market for Hapag-Lloyd and takes up a strategic position in this region. Located in Bucharest, the country’s capital and economic hub, the new office consists of 21 staff members.
Strategically situated, Romania offers direct access to Central, Eastern and Northwestern European countries via the Danube-Black Sea Canal and, with the port of Constanța, provides an important hub port for container traffic in the Black Sea region. Hapag-Lloyd currently offers one direct weekly service to and from the port of Constanța.
In recent years, Romania has reached one of the highest growth rates of all EU members and has garnered sizeable investments from multinational corporations and other EU countries alike. By volume, the most important commodities exported from Romania are timber and wood products, automotive products, tires, machinery, steel products, and paper. On the import side, consumer goods, construction materials, natural rubber, and foodstuff are most prominent.
“Romania is an attractive growth market with an important port and good hinterland connection via road and rail,” says Juan Pablo Richards, Senior Managing Director Region South Europe at Hapag-Lloyd. “This new office in the capital Bucharest aligns with our strategy to grow in key markets. We are very pleased to open an own office in this strategically significant location, which will allow us to serve our customers even better in the Black Sea area and beyond.”
New dry bulk supply chain event set to be held in Geneva
A new two-day event focusing on the entire dry bulk chain is scheduled to take place in Geneva in one year’s time.
Launched last week in Singapore, ‘Geneva Dry’ will be held at Hotel President Wilson on the banks of Lake Geneva on May 2-3, 2024. It will be high-level business summit aimed at everyone in involved in the dry bulk industry, bringing together analysts, financiers, miners, traders and shipowners in different panel sessions to discuss where the markets are headed.
Switzerland’s Geneva has been chosen as host city for the event since it is the world’s biggest commodities trading hub with a global market share estimated at 35% for oil, 60% for metals, 50% for cereals and 40% for sugar.
“The vast majority of the big players in international trade have a presence in Geneva, and yet until now this landlocked city has not had a premier global event to cater for all their shipping needs,” commented V. Subramanian (‘Subra’), Geneva Dry’s event director. “Geneva Dry will serve as the platform for dry bulk deals to be sealed.”
The city is also home to MSC, the world’s largest container line and one of the biggest cruiseship operators, as well as a host of international organisations including UNCTAD (United Nations Conference on Trade and Development).
Confirmed speakers for the Geneva Dry event, which is organised by Singapore-based Asia Shipping Media, already include: Edward Buttery, CEO of London-listed Taylor Maritime and Grindrod Shipping; Tim Huxley, CEO of Mandarin Shipping; Olivia Lennox-King, COO of handysize giant Cetus Maritime; John Michael Radziwill, chairman of Monaco-based GoodBulk; and Alexander Saverys, CEO of Antwerp-based CMB.
Maritime workforce solutions provider 10ure now integrated with Helm CONNECT fleet management software
California-based workforce management solutions provider 10ure has announced the launch of a mobile-first license verification platform integration with Helm CONNECT, the flagship fleet operations software from Canadian maritime company Helm Operations.
The innovative credential management solution from 10ure is designed to enable employees and employers in the maritime industry to manage their licenses and credentials on-the-go, with real-time verification ensuring compliance and enhanced internal communication.
A highly versatile solution, the intuitive platform analyses shared documents and provides Helm CONNECT admins with immediate access to real-time data, allowing them to take prompt action when required. Its user-friendly interface is easy to use, and employers can ensure their workforce remains compliant as the platform provides notifications when employees and crew members credential details change. The chat system also makes it easy to communicate and share documents with users.
According to Hemzeh Abdelmuti, CEO of 10ure: “Establishing clear and concise lines of communication is essential in any industry but has often been a challenge in the maritime industry. The 10ure platform simplifies the process and provides real-time data that can benefit both the Helm CONNECT customer and mariner.”
Nolan Barclay, CEO at Helm Operations, said: “Providing Helm CONNECT users with an integration that helps streamline processes while reducing the burden of keeping vessel and crew information up to date is a key aspect of the service we provide. Helm’s integration partners help enhance the user experience and we are delighted to have 10ure onboard as our latest collaborator.”
IACS 2022 Annual Review published
The International Association of Classification Societies (IACS) is pleased to announce that the 2022 IACS Annual Review is now available to download from its website.
This year's Annual Review includes a broad range of articles on IACS’ work in 2022, with a strong emphasis on the wide range of decarbonisation initiatives being led by IACS in support of practical implementation of existing measures as well as longer-term projects, along with our work at IMO highlighting the safety challenges that accompany the rapid introduction of new fuels and technologies.
Quality performance is another dominant theme of the Review while IACS’ unparalleled commitment to the full spectrum of IMO activity is also described as is IACS’ cross-industry collaboration across a range of key topics.
These themes are expanded upon in a series of detailed technical articles on wave data, ballast water, cyber safety and testing and maintenance services to name but a few.
The Annual Review also includes details of all the new, updated, and deleted IACS Resolutions in 2022, as well as information on IACS's numerous submissions to IMO and its 'Class Report’, which contains data on the IACS fleet.
PSA Marine buys 45% stake in Panama’s Meyer’s Tugs
Through its wholly-owned subsidiary PSA Marine Americas Ltd, PSA Marine completed the acquisition of 45% stake in Meyer’s Tugs S.A. (MTSA) from Inversiones Maritimas CPT, a wholly-owned subsidiary of CPT Empresas Maritimas on 27 April 2023 in Panama.
“CPT and PSA Marine share a passionate belief of growing the towage service offering in Panama,” said Peter Chew, Managing Director of PSA Marine. “This new partnership in MTSA will bring together our networks, expertise, and capabilities in the towage business, thereby driving the best business outcome for our customers. We are proud of what the leadership team in MTSA has achieved. Together, we are stronger.”
Carlos Cornelius, CEO of CPT, said: “The new company marries the innovative, high-performance, and local expertise of CPT with PSA
Marine’s high operational standards, firm background, and strong international branding in the maritime sector. We are eager to achieve more together and look forward to consolidating and developing our market position in the Panamanian business.”
MTSA was incorporated in 2015 and it is headquartered in Panama. MTSA offers reliable and efficient towage services between the Pacific and Atlantic coast in Panama. With a team of more than 60 highly professional and dedicated staff, it owns and operates a fleet of six harbour tugs with bollard pull strength ranges between 60 tonnes and 77 tonnes.
Subsequent to the completion of the acquisition, MTSA will be rebranded for a common identity to reflect its shared values and vision. Gabriel Forero, General Manager of MTSA, together with his key managers, will continue to lead and run the company and offer high-quality services to its customers.
A wholly owned subsidiary of PSA International and headquartered in Singapore, PSA Marine provides integrated marine services – pilotage, towage, and offshore windfarm crew transfer to the ports and terminals, oil and gas, shipping and renewable energy sectors, employing some 1,800 people and operating more than 70 tugs worldwide.
WFW advises DSF on a US$100m term loan facility for Diana Shipping
Watson Farley & Williams (WFW) has advised Danish Ship Finance A/S (DSF) on a US$100m term loan facility granted to ship-owning companies of the Diana Shipping for the refinancing of nine vessels with a maturity date in April 2028.
The proceeds from the new loan facility will refinance other loans with an aggregate outstanding amount of approximately US$87m, namely two existing loan facilities with BNP Paribas of approximately US$75.2m (maturity dates in July 2023 and in May 2024) and another loan facility with DNB Bank ASA of approximately US$11.8m (maturity date in March 2024) related to the same nine vessels.
The remaining proceeds may be used to pay transaction costs and expenses incurred in connection with the loan agreement and/or general corporate purposes.
DSF is a highly specialised niche player dedicated to serving its customers to the highest standards of business. The company provides ship financing in Denmark as well as in the international market. It is a stable and reliable source of short-term and long-term loan capital for shipowners in all stages of the shipping cycle and it is a competent and trustworthy partner to its customers and financial counterparties as well as other stakeholders.
Diana Shipping is a global provider of ship transportation services through its ownership and bareboat charter-in of dry bulk vessels. Its vessels are employed primarily on short to medium-term time charters and transport a range of dry bulk cargoes including commodities such as iron ore, coal, grain and other materials along worldwide shipping routes.
The WFW Athens Maritime team that advised DSF was led by Partner Christina Giagka, supported by Senior Associate Kelina Kantzou and Associates Vassia Angeletaki and Yolanda Psychogyiou.
Christina commented: “We are so pleased to have advised with DSF on such an important loan agreement. It is a testament to our team’s capabilities in delivering high quality legal services to our clients and working with on complex and strategic transactions.”
Port-IT receives Singapore Cybersecurity Service Provider (CSP) licence
From October 2022 onwards, companies providing cybersecurity services in Singapore are required to obtain a Cybersecurity Service Provider (CSP) licence. This licence is part of the Singapore Cybersecurity Act 2018 and the Cybersecurity Regulations 2022 and when issued, demonstrate a comprehensive implementation of cybersecurity standards.
Recently, Port-IT received this official Singapore CSP certification for its products and services.
The purpose of this framework is twofold; it aims to better safeguard customer interests as well as improve service provider standards. The framework is a continuation of the Singapore Government’s focus on cyber resilience and hardening of IT infrastructure, particularly in light of the recent rise in cyberattacks.
As Port-IT is a managed cybersecurity provider offering the services as mentioned in the licensing framework, we are proud to have acquired the required licensing to deliver and implement all products and services.
The two licences recently obtained by Port-IT are a Penetration Testing Service Licence and Managed Security Operations Centre Monitoring Service Licence.
With these licences Port-IT says it is able to assure customers that it is able to safeguard ships according to the highest standards, keeping vessels safely connected at sea.
West underlines importance of Asia with key senior appointment
West P&I has announced the appointment of Tony Paulson as Head of Asia and his relocation to Singapore in mid-summer 2023. This new role reflects both the continued growth of Asia as a shipping centre and the region’s importance to West.
Tony Paulson will provide strategic support to the Singapore and Hong Kong offices and help ensure that West continues meeting its Members’ expectations for innovative products and high-quality service in this important region for the Club.
This appointment follows the recent promotions of David Griffiths and Xuanlun (XL) Cai as Regional Heads of Underwriting in Singapore and Hong Kong respectively.
Asia accounts for a significant proportion of West’s membership, and its importance to the Club has long been recognised. West was the first International Group (IG) Club to establish an office in Asia in 1982. That office, still the largest of its kind in the region, was bolstered by the opening of West’s Singapore office in 2017, which has since expanded to 10 staff.
With leading Members across China, Vietnam, Singapore and Southeast Asia, West is well positioned through its strong regional office network to take advantage of the continued growth of ship owning and operation in the region.
Tony Paulson has been with West for more than 30 years and undertaken several roles across the organisation. He was appointed a Director in 2005 and is now the Club’s Corporate Director, a role he will continue with alongside his new position as Head of Asia. Tony has oversight of all sanctions matters and provides risk management advice to Members and brokers across a broad range of legal, operational and liability issues at West. He is also Chair of the IG’s Pollution Committee.
Tom Bowsher, Group CEO, commented: “We are delighted to have made this appointment; relocating a senior Director with such a breadth of experience across the Club underlines just how important Asia is to West. Tony knows the region well, having previously lived in Hong Kong and travelled extensively throughout since then, so I’m confident that he will have an immediate impact.”
Tony Paulson said: “I’m excited to have the opportunity to return to Asia and work alongside my colleagues in both Singapore and Hong Kong in supporting our Members. I look forward to helping grow West’s presence throughout Asia, which is a key market for the Club.”
ASA International Shipping Forum (ISF) 2023 held on 'Blue and Safe Shipping'
26 April 2023 marked a very special day for the Asian Shipowners' Association (ASA) as it held its very first ASA International Shipping Forum (ISF). ISF had successfully conveyed Asian Shipowners’ voices to the international shipping community and noting the result of ISF 2023, ASA will be considering more of such occasions in future to express Asian voices.
ASA would like to take this opportunity to express our sincere gratitude to all the guests, sponsors, overseas delegates and participants for the ASA ISF.
The ASA ISF was held at the Marina Bay Sands (MBS) in Singapore, in conjunction with the Singapore Maritime Week 2023 and it received a full house attendance of 150 audiences including more than half of the participants from overseas. The theme of the ISF was “Blue and Safe Shipping”.
ASA was extremely honoured to have the Chief Executive of Maritime and Port Authority of Singapore, Mr Teo Eng Dih, to be the Guest of Honour. During his opening remarks, he emphasised the importance of achieving common prosperity, mutual trust and cooperation in shipping.
UK-EU project to develop carbon capture and other green retrofit solutions
A joint UK-EU project to develop retrofit carbon capture solutions and other technologies for ships to reduce their emissions and fuel consumption has got underway.
The Green Marine project, led by the Cyprus Marine & Maritime Institute (CMMI, brings together 10 partners from industry and academia from all over Europe and UK, including the University of Strathclyde’s Department of Naval Architecture, Ocean and Marine Engineering, who share the vision of providing the wider maritime community with effective and efficient ways of onboard retrofitting solutions leading to the decarbonisation of the maritime industry.
The project will run until January 2027 with an EU/UK funding of almost €5 million.
The Green Marine team will develop retrofitting protocols and solutions to enable the future of shipping to be energy and fuel efficient, capture the carbon it emits to deacidify our oceans and have closed air circulation systems that are virus free.
To aid the different stakeholders in their decision making, a software tool catalogue will be made that gathers knowledge on these and other solutions. The project will demonstrate these tools and the innovative solutions onboard Caledonian MacBrayne (CalMac) vessel/s.
Dr Iraklis Lazakis and Professor Evangelos Boulougouris will lead this effort from Strathclyde, contributing to all technical work packages, especially in the demonstration of retrofitting existing fleets of ships and the exploitation and dissemination activities of the project.
The project objectives are as follows:
• Develop and validate retrofitting protocol tools suitable for adapting engines, flue gas carbon capture and utilisation, and integrated energy saving solutions for ships worldwide.
• Develop and validate a software tool containing an up-to-date catalogue of suitable solutions for a wide variety of ship types and operation scenarios.
• Tailor a (nano)particle and virus removal solution suitable for gaseous steams.
• Tailor commercially available gas-gas separating membranes for CO2 and water capture.
• Develop and implement a carbon capture solution based on an alkaline solution with Ca- and Mg from sea water.
• Replicate project learnings to all stakeholders; Stimulate software tool use and further enrich its data; Cooperate with global marine community of ship owners, operators, shipyards and equipment providers.
• Firmly position the retrofitting, software tools as a sustainable solution, offering a realistic and competitive new alternative in the Carbon Capture Utilisation and Storage (CCUS) market.
Dr Lazakis said: “Shipping contributes a small extent to carbon emissions globally therefore if we can develop solutions that can capture these emissions, we can accelerate the climate neutrality of existing fleets.
“As part of Green Marine project, the different technologies will be tested and verified onshore first for their marine application and, based on the results, a demonstration of the technology will be performed onboard one or more CalMac vessels.
“This will take place towards the end of the project including a full process and consultation period with Classification Societies on the feasibility and risk assessment and qualification of the application of these technologies onboard the vessel/s.”
The other partners in the project are: Cyprus Marine & Maritime Institute; Smart Material Printing; Wind plus Sonne GmbH; University Polytechnic of Marche; BlueXPRT; SINTEF; PDM; CalMac Ferries Limited; and Carbon Capture Machine.
ZeroNorth and Vitol partner to develop more robust reporting of emissions and enhance vessel operations
Technology company ZeroNorth announces it has signed a long-term strategic partnership with energy and commodity leader Vitol. The deal will see Vitol gain full access to the ZeroNorth platform, and ZeroNorth customers will in turn gain access to Vitol’s carbon reduction solutions and bunkering services, through the subsidiary Vitol Bunkers.
The announcement means that Vitol will use the ZeroNorth platform to optimise operations in a number of key business areas, including voyage, vessel, bunker and emissions optimisation, vessel reporting, and vessel selection. Holistic access to the ZeroNorth platform’s full suite of capabilities will benefit profit and planet, improving Vitol’s bottom line and delivering better environmental outcomes.
In the near term, ZeroNorth will use learnings from the collaboration to support the rollout of its new global electronic bunker delivery note (eBDN) solution. The deal will also support Vitol’s continued regulatory compliance with maritime environmental regulations, and help the organisation manage its EU Emissions Trading Scheme (EU ETS) exposure by ensuring verified data quality and consolidation for more accurate emissions reporting.
The reciprocal agreement will enable ZeroNorth to tap into Vitol’s experience to the benefit of all customers using the platform, both as a prominent vessel charterer and owner, as well as an experienced provider of high quality carbon reduction solutions, establishing a new deep collaboration as the industry manages the energy transition. By improving operational transparency between cargo owners and shipowners, ZeroNorth will be able to strengthen the platform’s ability to support emissions reductions in a wider scope.
Speaking on the announcement, Søren Meyer (pictured), CEO at ZeroNorth, said: “We are delighted to be able to announce this new strategic partnership and full platform deal with Vitol. The news aligns with our ambitious strategy in two key areas.
“Firstly, we are once again able to prove our platform’s pedigree to key industry players and bring them into our ecosystem, to the benefit of their business and the planet. Secondly, and more importantly, it enables us to deepen our collaborative ties with true commodities experts, powering up our teams and capability to deliver the products and services needed for a profitable and decarbonised maritime industry.”
Ian Butler, Head of Energy Transition for Shipping at Vitol, added: “Driving efficiencies is key to addressing emissions in shipping. As a major participant in shipping markets, we are exploring a range of solutions to facilitate the company’s management of the energy transition.
"Our partnership with ZeroNorth will enable us to optimise our vessels, access valuable data, provide critical insight and allow us to evolve new, more efficient ways of working.”
MNWB issues plea for seafarers to complete UK port welfare survey
Seafarers are being urged to give their views on the services and support available during visits to UK ports in a new survey. The UK Port Welfare Seafarers’ Survey, launched this week by leading maritime charity the Merchant Navy Welfare Board (MNWB), will shine a light on improvements needed to enhance seafarers’ welfare.
The survey focuses on gaining an insight in three main areas: shore leave, connectivity and mental health & wellbeing support.
Stuart Rivers, Chief Executive of the MNWB which is the umbrella charity for the UK Merchant Navy and fishing fleets that provides support to seafarers, fishers and their dependants, said: “We want to hear from as many seafarers, far and wide, as possible to get their views and experiences of port welfare services in the UK. Findings from the survey will be instrumental in helping to design and deliver future welfare provision for seafarers.
“As part of our role as the National Seafarers’ Welfare Board, it is our duty to ensure that no seafarer or fisher is left without welfare support. Where welfare support is lacking, we will work tirelessly with the necessary bodies to ensure the needs of seafarers are met.”
With the help of maritime welfare charities, the surveys are being distributed primarily through port chaplains, ship welfare visitors and seafarers’ centres as well as organisations who come into contact with seafarers.
With over an estimated 1.9m seafarers globally, the survey is also available in the following languages: Indonesian, Mandarin, Russian, Spanish, Tagalog and Ukrainian.
The survey, which is anonymous and only takes a few minutes to complete, is now open and closes on July 31. For a downloadable hard copy of the survey in any of the above languages, visit www.mnwb.org/welfaresurvey
UK Secretary of State for Transport tours Emergency Response and Rescue Vessel in Aberdeen Harbour
The Rt Hon Mark Harper MP Secretary of State for Transport has been on board the Sentinel Marine vessel, the Mariner Sentinel in Aberdeen Harbour. The visit was a fact-finding trip to learn more about the work of UK-registered Emergency Response and Rescue Vessels (ERRV) operating in the North Sea and beyond.
The Mariner Sentinel, one of Sentinel Marine’s 12 state of the art new build ERRVs has, since her delivery, been on a long-term charter for six years to Equinor supporting operations at the Mariner Field. ERRVs are on duty 24 hours a day and for 365 days a year to rescue anyone from an offshore installation who enters the sea or escapes it in a lifeboat or life raft.
The Secretary of State was briefed on the principle functions of the ERRV by Jonathan Mitchell, managing director of Aberdeen headquartered Sentinel Marine, namely:
• Rescue from water or recovering persons
• Providing medical aid
• Acting as a place of safety
• Providing on scene coordination
• Participating in installation collision avoidance strategy
• Acting as a reserve radio station
Jonathan Mitchell says, “We welcomed the Secretary of State’s visit to the Mariner Sentinel to show him the capabilities of ERRVs including the Daughter Craft and Fast Rescue Craft. He was able to see the launch of the Fast Recue Craft which must be deployed in up to 5.5m seas in an emergency and to see how agile and manoeuvrable the craft is. He also toured the onboard specially equipped treatment rooms where the injured can be cared for by crew who are specially trained in medical and survival aid.”
Survey and inspection colleagues from the Maritime and Coastguard Agency were present to give the Secretary of State further insight on their work in surveying and inspecting vessels, and how this role fits into the successful operation of ERRVs.
As well as oil and gas industry rescues, ERRVs have been involved in the rescue of hundreds of persons from fishing vessels, pleasure vessels, merchant ships and, more recently, economic migrants Jonathan Mitchell says, “The Secretary of State was receptive to hearing how our ERRVs are deployed, and his visit displays the Government’s commitment to its “Maritime 2050; Navigating The Future” vision. The UK remains one of the world’s leading maritime nations and it’s vital that the sector is adaptable and plans for the future.
“One of Maritime 2050’s strategic ambitions is to lead the way in taking action on clean maritime growth and we’re proud that our new build vessels are the cleanest and greenest and therefor the most efficient ERRVs in the UK fleet. Purpose-built ships like the Mariner Sentinel are far more environmentally beneficial than vessels built as little as 15years ago, each also coming with a ‘green passport’ which lists all of their construction materials.”
MCTC encourages maritime industry to come together for Cook's Day 2023
Investing in our crew members’ physical and mental health is fast being recognised as a crucial element to sustain the future of shipping - and on May 30th the industry is being encouraged to join together to celebrate Cook's Day 2023.
MCTC, the international catering management provider to the maritime sector, will host the second annual event on May 30th, 2023, to recognise and express appreciation for the valuable role cooks play while at sea.
Seafarers are being encouraged to recognise their colleagues in the galley by joining in with baking MCTC's delicious and simple banana cake recipe on the day. They can take photos and videos, share their cakes on social media and show messages of support to their cooks.
Group CEO of MCTC, Christian Ioannou said: “The role of the cook is generally very undervalued and not recognised enough. Even when we go out for a meal, how often do we pass on our thanks to the cooks in the kitchen? They are working behind the scenes so are often forgotten about.
“But the cooks onboard ships are responsible for ensuring tasty and nutritious meals are served every day to seafarers, they ensure the proper and good running of their kitchen, safely prepare the food, and make sure the kitchen has all the supplies needed. They provide the essential fuel for the crews to carry out their daily tasks, motivate them, keep their energy and productivity levels up, and boost morale.
“Let’s not forget how vital it is for mental health for crews to feel connected while out at sea. Sitting down and ‘breaking bread’ together remains a vital part of bringing crewmates together at the end of a long shift and reminding them of meals from home.
“The industry has faced enormous challenges over the last few years and will continue to do so, but mealtimes remain the heartbeat of every vessel. And the cooks deserve a day where they can be recognised and thanked by their teammates.”
Companies can also get involved and support Cook’s Day in a number of ways.
• Encouraging vessels in the fleet to support this initiative and to raise awareness of the critical role that onboard cooks play.
• Sharing pictures with MCTC of crew members enjoying their favourite meals, which will be posted on its social media channels.
• Emailing MCTC with stories of how the cook has helped or supported crew members and colleagues.
• Recording a personal video message for the cook, thanking them for their work and contribution. The footage will be posted on MCTC’s social media channels and its website.
IMO’s Carbon Intensity Indicator explained in video series
The mandatory Carbon Intensity Indicator (CII) is explained through a new series of videos, developed by the Global Industry Alliance to Support Low Carbon Shipping (Low Carbon GIA), which provide an introduction to IMO’s requirements and how to navigate them.
The videos are between five and 20 minutes in duration and are free to access online via the IMO website. Included is a worked example of how a ship's CII is calculated and converted into its CII rating. Other topics covered include data collection, certification and compliance, and the amending of a Ship Energy Efficiency Management Plan (SEEMP).
Minglee Hoe, Technical Analyst of the IMO-Norway GreenVoyage2050 Project said: “Providing support tools to maritime administrations and shipowners/operators who want to understand how CII works is important in helping the industry to navigate meeting CII requirements and improving ship energy efficiency in line with the IMO GHG strategy.
“Soon we will launch a set of videos developed to support anyone looking to increase their knowledge of the Energy Efficiency Existing Ship Index (EEXI).”
The CII regulation is mandatory under MARPOL Annex VI and took effect in January 2023 as part of IMO’s short-term GHG reduction measure.
The CII rating reflects the operational energy efficiency of ships and is mandatory for ships of 5,000 gross tonnage and above. The actual annual operational CII achieved must be documented and verified against the required annual operational CII. This enables the operational carbon intensity rating to be determined. Based on a ship's CII, its carbon intensity will be rated A, B, C, D or E (where A is the best).
The video series was developed under the Energy efficiency technologies (EETs) and operational best practices workstream of the Low Carbon GIA.
Breakthrough solution provides one-stop-shop to manage vessel performance
A new maritime performance solution, OneLink, has been launched, combining several revolutionary performance platforms under one umbrella, helping maritime operators manage the intricacies of vessel performance.
Operators who previously had to utilise numerous different services to get all the information they needed to optimise vessel performance and manage emissions regulations can now turn to the OneLink platform. Through the consolidation of service providers and innovative integration of systems, OneLink is able to provide an unmatched service offering, surpassing any contender.
OneLink was created after recognising that the buying of various services frequently led to data duplication and imposed extra workload for the ship and crew. It enables operators to manage all the complexities of maritime performance and ever-changing emissions and MARPOL requirements in one simple solution, and also ensures they can be future-ready for any new requirements and developments coming into the industry.
OneLink’s state-of-the-art approach incorporates the latest digital tools such as using AR/VR to create digital twins and applying machine learning to solve performance issues by predicting hull and engine health. As an aggregator of new and existing services, OneLink starts with a vessel portfolio of more than 900 vessels ranging from gas carriers to offshore platforms and has already secured a leading maritime ship manager, Columbia Shipmanagement, as an early adopter.
OneLink incorporates the following maritime performance platforms: POCR - Vessel Performance: A one of its kind ISO 9001 certified performance centre located in Cyprus, India and Philippines. Operating 24/7/365 with experienced seafarers monitoring vessels in real time and Utilising artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML) to optimise all aspects of navigational, operations, and commercial performance via a state-of-the-art digital platform.
Bunker-Link: Decision support tool utilising an AI-based pricing algorithm to help charterers, owners, and operators optimise bunker life cycle from purchase planning to consumption and emissions. Customers also benefit from a bunker concierge service where traders and a 24/7 operations team closely monitor all activities from RFQ to supply to post-delivery events such as testing and claims.
Route-Link: A routing service, focused on advising the best route for a vessel, based on factors such as weather forecasts, ship characteristics, ocean currents and special cargo requirements. The service offers support 24/7 365 days a year through an experienced team of ex-seafarers.
Oceanly: Next-generation approach to vessel automation that provides a holistic view across heterogeneous fleets, including old and new vessels with varying degrees of digital equipment.
Emission-Link: Comprehensive fuel and emissions monitoring system to provide information regarding IMODCS/MRV/CXII needs and readiness for EU ETS reporting, GHG and other relevant requirements. Powered by advanced forecasting systems, operators benefit from predictive emissions with capability to simulate multiple long-term scenarios.
Engine-Link: Unique app which provides owners with crucial insight into engine room operations and uses engine room data for optimal machinery health by monitoring vessel KPIs. It transforms the workload of TSIs and Chief Engineers.
Lube-Link: Streamlined lubricant management solution delivering operational expertise and unparalleled access to a diverse range of high-quality lubricants at competitive prices, through single interface reporting.
Ariva 360: Innovative gamified VR application to help crew and officers familiarise themselves with specific safety and technical features found on the vessel. A seafarer training programme, which is delivered online, using AR/VR and real-world situations.
IoT-Link: Monitoring tool using state-of-the-art smart cameras, wireless vibration and temperature sensors on the vessel to reduce breakdowns and improve equipment functionality and reliability.
OneLink is a fully customisable platform providing clients with a modular offering. It integrates easily into an operator’s current systems and is fully adaptable to the equipment available on board. Data protection and security is guaranteed and OneLink can be set up quickly with minimal cost.
A.P. Moller – Maersk reports solid Q1 results
A.P. Moller – Maersk (Maersk) reports a first quarter of 2023 in line with expectations. Continued destocking and easing of congestions implied lower volumes across all segments.
Revenue declined by 26% year-on-year to USD 14.2bn from USD 19.3bn. EBITDA decreased to USD 4.0bn from USD 9.1bn, and EBIT to USD 2.3bn from USD 7.3bn. The full-year guidance remains unchanged, with Q1 expected to be the strongest quarter of the year.
“We delivered a solid financial performance in a challenging market with lower demand caused by a continued destocking,” said Vincent Clerc, CEO of Maersk. “Visibility remains low for the remainder of the year and moving through this market normalisation, we remain focused on proactively managing costs.
“As we adjust to a radically changed business environment, we continue to support our customers in addressing their supply chain challenges. We are pleased to note that customers continue to value the integrated logistics solutions and close partnership we provide.”
Ocean revenue decreased by USD 5.7bn to USD 9.9bn. Profitability for the quarter was significantly lower compared to Q1 2022, primarily due to lower freight rates and volumes, as demand softened. However, Maersk’s proactive cost containment measures are reported to have been successful, and the Ocean contract negotiation season is proceeding in line with its expectations.
In Logistics & Services, revenue grew 21% to USD 3.5bn driven by the consolidation of acquisitions. Organically, Q1 was affected by lower volumes caused by inventory corrections, especially with North American and European retailers, which was partially offset by new commercial wins. Additionally, underlying business performance was impacted by lower rates in Air Freight and weaker demand in eCommerce.
In Terminals, the top line was affected by lower volumes and storage income, both a factor of lower demand and the release of port congestion. Revenue in Terminals decreased to USD 876m from USD 1.1bn, but strong cost control contributed to continued solid financial performance in Terminals.
Q1 was marked by continued destocking in Europe and especially North America. While it is difficult to predict the exact timing, Maersk expects volumes to gradually pick up in the second half of the year.
ONE posts 10% decline in profits for FY 2022
The ONE (Ocean Network Express) full-year result for Financial Year 2022 was US$14,997 million, a decrease of US$1,759 million (10%) from the previous year.
The liner operator points out that strong market conditions continued during the 1H, but in 2H “the market weakened quickly due to the recovery of tonnage availability as a result of the normalization of the supply chain, and a sharp decrease of demand.
“A decline in demand became more pronounced in the 4Q, against a backdrop of a high goods inventory ratio in the US and falling consumption in Europe due to rising inflation.”
On the supply side, ONE says that tonnage utilization improved as congestion eased. Blank sailings continued since the end of the calendar year 2022 in response to the decrease in demand.
Supply and demand balance softened at an even faster pace despite blank sailings to address decrease of volume, resulting in decreased spot freights in Q4 QoQ.
SPC and SNEC Chairs affirm collaboration to strengthen Asian Voices towards safe shipping
The Shipping Policy Committee (SPC) and Safe Navigation and Environment Committee (SNEC) of the Asian Shipowners’ Association (ASA), held a joint meeting for the first time today to discuss environmental and navigational safety issues, whilst taking into account the impact of economic and shipping policy considerations on aspects of their work.
There are five Standing Committees in the ASA, who usually discuss their own agenda items. Given that the issues which both committees represent are increasingly interlinked, Mr Keiji Tomoda, Chair of the SPC, who proposed the joint session on this occasion, emphasized; "The COVID pandemic reminded us of the criticality of maritime trade and just how important it was for the shipping industry to collaborate with all associated stakeholders, in order to maintain sustainable supply chains. It has also been recognized, that environmental protection, through a circular economy, can only be also achieved by working together. However, it needs to be appreciated that all of these issues have to consider navigational aspects to ensure the safety of all concerned. With this in mind, I am convinced that multi-layered discussions, through a joint session of both Committees, could only act as a driving force to tackle such important issues more efficiently".
During the joint session, Mr Simon Bennett, Deputy Secretary General, ICS, explained the impacts of global and regional environmental regulations on the shipping industry, saying “ ICS is pleased to join ASA members to increase understanding of the global industry’s Fund and Reward proposal to IMO, ahead of the critical IMO meeting in July, and promote the urgent need to encourage governments to take this forward - together with a global fuel standard - to incentivise first movers with rewards for the rapid production and take-up of low and zero GHG fuels, which will be necessary for shipping to achieve net zero emissions mid-century”.
In this context, Ms Caroline Yang, Chair of SNEC, added that; “International shipping needed to be regulated at a global level and not at any regional level, because this will only lead to excessive administrative burden and confusion for the industry. This is consistent with ASA’s long-standing position to support a predictable and uniformed approach to regulating GHG emissions that all shipping sectors will be able to comply with, as ships move across different jurisdictions. We urge IMO and its member states, to accelerate development of an internationally harmonized framework for decarbonisation under which early movers are not disadvantaged”.
The joint session also considered issues concerning the Suez Canal and the need to ensure safety of transit. From Suez Canal Authority (SCA), Mr Elsayed Abou El-Fetouh Elsayed, Director of Planning, Research and Studies Department and Eng Yasser Abdel Kader Darwish, Director of Transit Department participated online in spite of time difference.
SCA provided a review of the lessons learned from the major incident in 2020, which led to some 370 vessels delayed by the closure of the Canal, with an estimated US$54 billion dollars of trade lost,. The SCA team shared insights, learnings and measures taken by the SCA to avoid similar accidents in the future. Mr. Tomoda stated that; “Not only the Suez Canal but also the Panama Canal, are strategic points in global supply chains, and both Responsible Authorities need to ensure safe and stable management to accommodate growing volumes of cargo flow. With this in mind, the shipping industry needed to continue dialogue with both Authorities, not only as users of the canals but also with the view of ensuring sustainable supply chains. Such dialogue would cover topics such as green transits and stable supplies of alternative fuels”.
Mr Yuichi Sonoda, Secretary General of ASA, said; “This first joint session of ASA standing committees has proved to be highly beneficial. Economies in Asia are major players in the world shipping industry, leading in shipowning, shipmanaging, shipbuilding, shiprecycling and seafarers supply. We also have the geographical advantage to enable close communication, unhindered by time differences, and I would encourage other ASA standing committees to actively collaborate with each other to spread the Asian shipping voice to the world”.
Following the joint session, the 36th SPC interim meeting was held to discuss various agenda items such as recent developments on international supply chain, anti-trust immunity, US legislation, facilitation payment and canals issues. In details, please find attached its meeting summary.
Seafarers Happiness Index Q1 2023 reveals decline in overall satisfaction levels among seafarers
The Mission to Seafarers has published the latest Seafarers Happiness Index report for Q1 2023, revealing a decline in overall happiness levels among seafarers during the first three months of the year. The survey, which captures seafarers' sentiments worldwide across a wide range of welfare issues, shows a fall from 7.69 to 7.1 out of 10, compared to Q4 2022.
The Seafarers Happiness Index (SHI) report covers ten key questions that provide insights into the challenges and opportunities facing seafarers. The Q1 2023 SHI was undertaken with the support of NorthStandard and Idwal, and identifies a return to growing frustrations among respondents, following a period of rising happiness.
Seafarers were relatively satisfied in the last quarter of 2022, but sentiment has since worsened. The average happiness level of seafarers in Q1 2023 was 7.1, which is lower than the levels recorded in Q2, Q3, and Q4 of 2022. In fact, nine out of ten areas surveyed showed a decrease in happiness levels. Despite an optimistic outlook for improvements to seafarer welfare in 2023, the latest report indicates that these expectations have not yet been met. As ever, there is still much room for improvement.
Q1 2023 data shows a decline in seafarers' satisfaction against all questions, with the exception of connectivity. However, despite the rise in satisfaction, seafarers still reported connectivity issues at sea across different companies, as well as concerns about data allowances, internet speed, and connectivity limitations.
Shore leave and a desire to access welfare services ashore once more came to the fore as key areas for concern. Seafarers also reported growing frustration with owners who attempt to make seafarers sign on for longer periods than desired, as well as with the delays experienced in sign-off procedures. In addition, the challenges of coping with extended periods on board have reportedly been made harder due to inadequate food provisions, bureaucratic and unnecessary paperwork demands, ineffective shipboard leadership, and a sense of social isolation adding to the stress of life onboard.
The SHI report also identified several other challenges facing seafarers, including a growing wellness gap between companies that provide health and well-being programs and those that do not, access to dental care in some ports but not others, and limited access to mental health support, medical advisory services, and physical well-being consultations. Seafarers also expressed concerns about salaries, the cost of living, and potential obstacles to career advancement.
Despite the challenges, seafarers recognise the importance of positive onboard interactions for their well-being and job satisfaction. However, insufficient entertainment options on board are making it harder for them to find a reason to come together. Therefore, there is a need for improved social activities and shared spaces to encourage crew members to interact. This will not only enhance their overall experience but will also contribute to safer and more efficient operations on board ships.
The Revd Canon Andrew Wright, Secretary General of The Mission to Seafarers, said: “We saw the satisfaction of seafarers steadily grow throughout 2022, and this continued into the fourth quarter with a high-water mark of satisfaction at 7.69/10. Unfortunately, this positive trend came to an end in the first quarter of this year, as happiness levels have declined almost across the board. This illustrates how important it is to maintain momentum on seafarer welfare and why there can be zero complacency over the conditions in which our seafarers find themselves.
“We are committed to working with the shipping industry to address the challenges facing seafarers and improve their welfare. The SHI is an important tool in this work, and we are grateful to all the seafarers who participated in the survey."
Thom Herbert, Idwal Senior Marine Surveyor and Crew Welfare Advocate, commented: “The dip in the Seafarers’ Happiness Index in the first quarter of 2023 is a worrying sign after the steady increase last year and we will watch Q2’s results with interest to see whether this is the start of a downward trend. Hopefully not!
“It’s very frustrating to hear about ongoing issues with lack of shore leave and sign-off procedures being delayed. Moving out of the pandemic does not make lack of shore leave any less of an issue and we need to keep a spotlight on this to ensure it improves.
“I was particularly interested to hear about the challenges related to onboard meals, food budgets and quality, etc. As a former seafarer, I know how important good nutrition and good food is to keep you healthy and motivated. Good mealtimes together can also go a long way to help the onboard culture and camaraderie. Getting food right for people is basic and we should be doing better.”
Capt .Yves Vandenborn, Director of Loss Prevention at NorthStandard, added: “It is unfortunate to see a dip in satisfaction levels from 7.69/10 to 7.10/10 in Quarter 1 of 2023, following the incremental rise reported throughout 2022. Persistent frustrations with shore leave and challenges with extended periods on board appear to have had a negative impact on scoring as the pace of industry-wide improvement to these areas has been slow.
“There is also a growing awareness amongst seafarers of the disparities in terms of provision of connectivity, access to mental health support and wellbeing programs offered to crew by companies across the industry. NorthStandard will continue raising awareness of these important wellbeing aspects to support positive change, improve job satisfaction, productivity, and retention among seafarers.”
During last week’s Singapore Maritime Week 2023, The Mission to Seafarers, NorthStandard, Idwal, Inmarsat, and Seafarers Happiness Index founder Steven Jones came together for an Executive Roundtable on Crew Welfare to develop an approach to improve the well-being of seafarers. Leading ship owners, managers, and charterers will use data and insights from the Seafarers Happiness Index and Idwal's onboard findings to identify actions and approaches that can propel the industry towards a solutions-centered approach. The group aims to accelerate the seafaring industry from compliance to excellence by prioritising the wellbeing of crews and ensuring they are part of the equation for commercial success.
Ports of Mannheim and Rotterdam sign logistics partnership
In the coming years, the ports of Mannheim and Rotterdam will step up cooperation in making the logistics chain between the two ports more sustainable and digital. To reinforce these plans, Uwe Köhn (pictured, left), Port Director of Hafen Mannheim and Matthijs van Doorn (right), Commercial Director of the Port of Rotterdam Authority recently signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU).
The port of Mannheim has a strategic location along the Rhine corridor and within a strong industrial area, from where bulk and container flows are transported to and from Rotterdam.
Topics to be addressed in the cooperation include the possibilities for further developing the hinterland network via rail and inland shipping, transforming the logistics chain into a zero-emission transport corridor for freight transport by road, water and rail, further increasing the reliability and efficiency of barge handling at deep-sea and inland terminals, and sharing knowledge between both port complexes to work towards a fully transparent digital Rhine corridor.
Regarding energy transition, both ports will examine whether they can act jointly in facilitating the infrastructure for the transport of alternative renewable energy carriers, either produced, imported or used in the ports, the hinterland and between the ports along the corridor.
IRS highlighted maritime services and forged stronger relationships at SMW 2023
Classification society Indian Register of Shipping (IRS) hosted its 6th Singapore Advisory Committee Meeting (pictured) and Customer Meet during last week’s Singapore Maritime Week (SMW), as well as exhibiting at Sea Asia. In addition, the company met with the Indian High Commissioner to Singapore, His Excellency Mr P. Kumaran, and Mr Teo Eng Dih, Chief Executive of Maritime Port Authority of Singapore.
The week’s events allowed IRS to highlight its capabilities, network with industry peers, and explore challenges and opportunities facing the maritime industry.
“Taking part in SMW was an excellent opportunity for IRS to engage with industry peers, customers and partners,” said Mr Arun Sharma, Executive Chairman of IRS. “We had a chance to discuss the latest maritime trends and developments. Our participation in events such as the SMW helps us stay at the forefront of industry innovation and best practices."
The meeting with His Excellency Mr P. Kumaran was a significant engagement for IRS as it underlined the Indian Government’s continued commitment to supporting IRS. Similarly, IRS’ meeting with Mr Teo of the MPA was constructive and useful.
IRS’ 6th Singapore Advisory Committee Meeting, which is attended by senior Singapore based industry leaders, focused on how to grow the class society in East Asia and South-East Asia as well as boosting bilateral ties with major maritime centres across the Asia Pacific region.
‘IRS Customer Meet & Advisory Committee meeting presented us with the opportunity to strengthen relationships with customers and business partners as well as explore new business opportunities.’ said Mr. Vijay Arora, Managing Director of IRS.
US report provides recommendations to improve methods of calculating GHG emissions
The US-based Blue Sky Maritime Coalition (BSMC) has released a new report which provides key recommendations to help standardize approaches to help make greenhouse gas (GHG) calculations consistent, reliable and transparent.
“To understand the full extent of a challenge, it is critical to be able to clearly identify the problem and have accurate and consistent data to understand the depth and scope of what is needed to solve it,” said David Cummins (pictured), BSMC President and CEO.
“This report is an important step to help the North American maritime industry understand how we can work together across industry and government to improve GHG emissions data collection and calculation methodologies. Having a standardised approach to calculations will provide clear and consistent data, helping us prioritise efforts and have the greatest impact on decarbonisation.”
Developed by the BSMC Measurement and Operational Efficiencies Workstream, the report compares available industry GHG inventory assessments to identify opportunities to further improve methodologies and calculations. The three key takeaways from the report include:
• Use 2021 as a reference base year for emissions inventory calculations.
• Submit comments through the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) annual regulatory process.
• Develop a guidance document to identify a consistent carbon accounting methodology.
“We undertook this report because we recognized a number of inconsistencies in the GHG emissions reporting that is publicly available. We believe that a standardized approach to GHG emissions calculations can help better align industry and drive solutions to the most pressing decarbonization challenges facing the North American shipping sector,” said Kai Martin, BSMC Measurement and Operational Efficiencies Workstream Lead.
Baltic Exchange Chairman issues special Coronation message
Ahead of King Charles III’s Coronation on Saturday, Baltic Exchange Chairman Lord Mountevans this week issued a message on behalf of the Baltic Exchange and its members from around the world, extending sincere congratulations and best wishes to King Charles III.
The Baltic Exchange has a strong affiliation to the Royal Family, he pointed out, since King Charles' father, HRH The Prince Philip, Duke of Edinburgh, was the most senior member of the Baltic Exchange and was elected an Honorary Member in 1953.
“HRH The Prince Philip visited the Baltic Exchange on several occasions including our 250th anniversary celebrations in 1994,” continued Mountevans. while HM Queen Elizabeth II visited the old Exchange in 1956 and then again 25 years later,, touring the floor and meeting with members.
“During many years of public service King Charles III has placed great weight on sustainability, the fight against climate change and the importance of preserving our oceans,” he added. “The Baltic Exchange shares concerns for the future of our planet and wishes His Majesty a long and successful reign.”
A formal toast to the newly crowned King Charles III will be raised at the Baltic Exchange Chairman's Cocktail Party next week, when Monday is a national holiday in the UK to mark the country’s first Coronation in 70 years.
Draft revised Biofouling Guidelines approved by IMO Sub-Committee
The IMO’s Sub-Committee on Pollution Prevention and Response has approved the revised Guidelines for the control and management of ships' biofouling to minimize the transfer of invasive aquatic species. It came during the Sub-Committee's 10th session (PPR 10, 24-28 April) and follows a comprehensive review of the Guidelines.
The 2023 Guidelines, which expand on and update the previous version, with a view to strengthening it and increasing its uptake, will be submitted to the Marine Environment Protection Committee (MEPC 80) for adoption.
The Sub-Committee also agreed to develop guidance on in-water cleaning at a future session. In this regard, the Sub-Committee recommended to MEPC 80 that the target completion year for the guidance should be extended to 2025, and that it should be renamed as ‘Development of guidance on matters relating to in-water cleaning’. The Sub-Committee invited concrete proposals on the separate guidance.
The Sub-Committee also invited Member States and international organizations to submit relevant information on best practices for biofouling inspections and cleaning actions to the International Maritime Organization as it may become available in the future.
Other topics on the agenda for PPR 10 included the seaborne carriage of plastic pellets.
The risks to the marine environment from plastic pellets haves been highlighted by incidents including the X-Press Pearl in 2021, during which 11,000 tonnes of plastic pellets were spilled off the shore of Sri Lanka.
The Sub-Committee agreed a draft MEPC circular on recommendations for the carriage of plastic pellets by sea in freight containers. The draft text will be submitted to the Sub-Committee on Carriage of Cargoes and Containers (CCC 9, which meets 20-29 September) for input.
The draft circular recommends that plastic pellets should be packed in good quality packagings which should be strong enough to withstand the shocks and loadings normally encountered during transport. Packaging should be constructed and closed so as to prevent any loss of contents which may be caused under normal conditions of transport, by vibration or acceleration forces.
Draft revised Biofouling Guidelines approved by IMO Sub-Committee
The IMO’s Sub-Committee on Pollution Prevention and Response has approved the revised Guidelines for the control and management of ships' biofouling to minimize the transfer of invasive aquatic species. It came during the Sub-Committee's 10th session (PPR 10, 24-28 April) and follows a comprehensive review of the Guidelines.
The 2023 Guidelines, which expand on and update the previous version, with a view to strengthening it and increasing its uptake, will be submitted to the Marine Environment Protection Committee (MEPC 80) for adoption.
The Sub-Committee also agreed to develop guidance on in-water cleaning at a future session. In this regard, the Sub-Committee recommended to MEPC 80 that the target completion year for the guidance should be extended to 2025, and that it should be renamed as ‘Development of guidance on matters relating to in-water cleaning’. The Sub-Committee invited concrete proposals on the separate guidance.
The Sub-Committee also invited Member States and international organizations to submit relevant information on best practices for biofouling inspections and cleaning actions to the International Maritime Organization as it may become available in the future.
Other topics on the agenda for PPR 10 included the seaborne carriage of plastic pellets.
The risks to the marine environment from plastic pellets haves been highlighted by incidents including the X-Press Pearl in 2021, during which 11,000 tonnes of plastic pellets were spilled off the shore of Sri Lanka.
The Sub-Committee agreed a draft MEPC circular on recommendations for the carriage of plastic pellets by sea in freight containers. The draft text will be submitted to the Sub-Committee on Carriage of Cargoes and Containers (CCC 9, which meets 20-29 September) for input.
The draft circular recommends that plastic pellets should be packed in good quality packagings which should be strong enough to withstand the shocks and loadings normally encountered during transport. Packaging should be constructed and closed so as to prevent any loss of contents which may be caused under normal conditions of transport, by vibration or acceleration forces.
Hapag-Lloyd launches ‘Ship Green’ climate-friendly biofuel transport solution
German liner giant Hapag-Lloyd is introducing ‘Ship Green’, a new solution for climate-friendly transportation based on biofuel. The solution is accessible from anywhere at any time and requires no long-term commitment from customers. In the first rollout stage, customers can add Ship Green as an additional service to their existing bookings.
With Ship Green, customers can choose among three different options, representing different levels of avoidance in carbon dioxide equivalent (CO2e) emissions: 100%, 50% or 25% of their shipment’s ocean-leg CO2e emissions. The Ship Green options are available for confirmed shipments via the Online Business Suite on Hapag-Lloyd’s website.
The emissions avoidance results from the use of biofuel instead of conventional marine fuel oil within Hapag-Lloyd’s fleet. The company guarantees that it uses biofuel from 2nd-generation feedstock sourced from certified supply chains and produced from waste material, such as brown grease or used cooking oil. It also assures that no edible virgin oils are included in the fuel.
The avoided emissions are allocated to shipments with the so-called ‘book and claim’ approach, meaning that Hapag-Lloyd can attribute avoided CO2e emissions to all ocean-leg transports regardless of the vessel and route used. At present, Ship Green is only available for dry cargo, but it will be expanded to other cargo types in the future.
“At Hapag-Lloyd, we are committed to making it easier for our customers to avoid emissions and contribute to decarbonisation,” says Rolf Habben Jansen, CEO of Hapag-Lloyd. “With our new Ship Green solution, we are offering our customers an easy and flexible way to reduce their environmental footprint and make their supply chain more sustainable,”
At the end of every quarter, customers will receive an emissions avoidance declaration verifying the total emissions prevented through Ship Green in the respective period. The underlying emissions avoidance calculation is based on the renowned emissions-accounting methodology of the Clean Cargo Initiative (CCI), which has become a common standard widely used by carriers, freight forwarders and shippers.
In the past, Hapag-Lloyd has been successfully testing climate-friendly transportation by means of biofuel with selected customers and thereby demonstrated the scalability of sustainable transport solutions. By offering Ship Green, Hapag-Lloyd is continuing along its path towards achieving climate neutral fleet operations by 2045.
CMA CGM offers €5 billion to buy Bolloré Logistics
The Bolloré Group has received a put option from the CMA CGM Group to acquire 100% of Bolloré Logistics for an enterprise value of 5 billion euros ($5.5 billion). This undertaking is the result of exclusive negotiations between the Bolloré Group and the CMA CGM Group announced on 18 April 2023.
The Bolloré Group has accepted this put option strictly as an offer. The information and consultation procedures with the relevant staff representative bodies of the Bolloré Group pertaining to this transaction shall now be initiated. The decision as to whether or not to exercise this put option will be taken at the end of these procedures.
CMA CGM Group says the negotiations are in line with its long-term strategy, based on the two pillars of shipping and logistics. The Group’s strategy is to offer end-to-end solutions in support of its customer’s supply chain needs.
Coronation marked at Port of Felixstowe
A container stack at the Port of Felixstowe has been rearranged to celebrate the Coronation of King Charles III!
Coronation marked at Port of Felixstowe
A container stack at the Port of Felixstowe has been rearranged to celebrate the Coronation of King Charles III!!!
Stena Line acquires ferry and RoRo port operations in Ventspils, Latvia and continues expansion
Stena Line today announced that it has acquired the operations of the ferry and RoRo terminal in the Port of Ventspils, Latvia, representing the latest in a range of investments in the Baltic region, including the addition of upgraded ferries and new ferry routes.
The acquisition in Latvia is the latest among several moves to support Stena Line's long-term expansion in the growing Baltic Sea region. Stena Line has operated the route between Ventspils and Nynäshamn, Sweden since 2012 and today’s announcement is a proof point of Stena Line’s long-term commitment to Ventspils – one of Stena Line’s strategic sites in the Baltic Sea.
Direct ownership of the operations in Ventspils will give Stena Line the initiative in future expansion opportunities as Latvia continues to grow its importance as a maritime nation with increasing trade volumes.
“The Baltic Sea is a major growth region for Stena Line and our investment in Ventspils shows how committed we are to develop our business with Latvia”, says Niclas Mårtensson, CEO Stena Line. He continues: “With this strategic move we have secured a long-term position in an essential part in our European network and I am looking forward to working with our customers and partners to continue expanding in the region”.
The growing customer demand on the route connecting Latvia and Sweden recently called for a capacity boost through two ferries – Stena Baltica and Stena Scandica. These extended ferries added 30 per cent of freight capacity on the route as well as offering a new modern onboard experience for a maximum of 970 passengers in each vessel.
A similar expansion was made to the route Liepaja, Latvia – Travemünde, Germany in 2021 and 2022, adding 40 per cent freight capacity through the introduction of Stena Livia and Stena Flavia, also shortening the crossing time substantially.
The company’s Baltic Sea expansion also includes the opening of a new route between Nynäshamn, Sweden and Hanko, Finland in February 2022. The new route has been well received by customers with growing freight volumes while also travelers by car are growing in numbers.
The Norvik Port in Nynäshamn, just south of Stockholm, Sweden has recently expanded, adding critical capacity and infrastructure which supports Stena Line’s operations to both Latvia and Finland.
During 2022, the company also took delivery of two all-new E-Flexer ferries – the Stena Estelle and Stena Ebba for use on its growing route between Karlskrona, Sweden and Gdynia, Poland. The Verkö Port in Karlskrona has recently gained added capacity while the Port of Gdynia inaugurated an all-new terminal last year.
The acquisition of the ferry and RoRo port operations is subject to authority approval for competition compliance. Commercial details of the agreement will not be disclosed.
Maritime Week Gibraltar 2023 to take place in June
Maritime Week Gibraltar is to take place 26-30 June, showcasing the territory’s efficient, secure and professionally managed port and maritime services.
Hosted by HM Government of Gibraltar, the Gibraltar Port Authority, the Gibraltar Maritime Administration and the University of Gibraltar Maritime Academy, this third edition of the biennial event will demonstrate why Gibraltar has come to be recognised as a rock-solid partner for global shipping, says organiser Petrospot.
The week starts on Monday 26 June with an Evening Opening Reception hosted by HM Government of Gibraltar, followed by the Flagship Conference on Tuesday 27 June. Leading international and local speakers will cover a range of key subjects during the conference based on activities carried out in Gibraltar, including bunkering, underwater hull cleaning, crew change and agency, superyacht management, ship and yacht registry, towage & salvage, ship repair &retrofitting, medical services, legal, financial and insurance services. The event will finish with an Evening Reception.
Some of the conference presentations will serve as short introductions to more in-depth breakout sessions that will take place on Wednesday 28 and Thursday 29 June. A full day of training on Wednesday, An Introduction to Shipping & Bunkering; and on Thursday a brand-new ship.energy Alternative Fuels Course.
For further enquiries contact info@petrospot.com
GAC in biofuels partnership as lifting begins at Ireland’s first clean fuels terminal
GAC Ireland and Green Biofuels Limited UK (GBF) have celebrated the debut lifting of biofuels from Ireland’s first clean fuels terminal.
The company has been appointed to operate and maintain GBF’s Cork Terminal from March 2023. The first 39,000-litre lifting of Gd⁺ fuel, which is made from renewable feedstocks and dramatically reduces harmful emissions by up to 90%, was completed in April under the eagle eye of Kenneth Long, GAC Ireland’s Cork Terminal Manager. It was heading for Mullingar in central Ireland where it will be used for several applications.
Previously, GBF leased tanks in UK through third parties. The beginning of operations at their own facility is a major milestone for them – and they have selected GAC as their partner to provide the manning and oversee day-to-day terminal activities.
Under the agreement, GAC provides terminal management services at the site, including providing terminal operators, loading masters and jetty operators who are responsible for the day-to-day operations of the terminal, discharging fuel from vessels and overseeing the loading of fuel onto trucks for delivery.
Alex Azadegan, GBF’s Operations Manager, says: “We awarded GAC the management of the terminal due to the experience and expertise of their people and their superb safety, environmental and reliability ethos. We believe these are the principal ingredients required to successfully deliver a visionary, new facility.”
In 2021, Ireland imported over 8 million litres of Gd+ HVO from the UK, and GBF is seeing significant growth to this figure as industries turn to greener alternatives to fossil fuel. Ireland has committed to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 51% by 2030 and reach net-zero by 2050. GBF is in the business of introducing low-carbon, drop-in replacement fuels to the UK and Irish markets, and is powering the BBC’s coverage of this year’s Eurovision Song Contest.
Kenneth Long says: “I am personally very proud to be part of this journey in making renewable fuel accessible here in Ireland on a large scale.”
GAC’s support for the biofuels sector chimes with the Group’s pledge to work for a more sustainable future.
Nicholas Browne, Managing Director of GAC UK & Ireland, says: “Together with GAC Bunker Fuels, we are committed to facilitating the growth of biofuels as an alternative fuel of the future throughout the UK and Ireland. It is fantastic to support GBF and to work with the Port of Cork on this project.”
The Cork Terminal currently only handles Gd+ but options to store other clean fuels there are being explored. The current capacity of 38 million is set to increase to 53 million with further development. The beginning of operations marks the beginning of a long, successful partnership in the journey towards net zero.
KVH ONE OpenNet Program brings benefits of KVH global HTS network to non-KVH antennas
KVH Industries, Inc. is pleased to announce a new program for leisure and commercial vessels: the KVH ONE™ OpenNet Program. Vessels of all sizes and types can use their existing non-KVH VSAT antenna to enjoy global VSAT coverage, 24/7 airtime and technical support, and a powerful suite of value-added services from KVH, all thanks to a simple software update. No hardware exchanges are needed to subscribe to the service.
“The KVH ONE OpenNet Program enables both leisure and commercial vessel owners to maximize their investment in their current onboard SATCOM system, while taking advantage of the KVH ONE global high-throughput satellite (HTS) network,” says Mark Woodhead, KVH’s Executive Vice President of Sales and Marketing.
“This new program expands the airtime options available to customers. Fleets with terminals from multiple manufacturers will now enjoy a consistent airtime experience. Likewise, we’re delivering a new level of flexibility to OEMs that wish to install terminals during construction and permit their customers to select their preferred airtime upon delivery.”
Customers in the KVH ONE OpenNet Program will have access to the mobile-responsive KVH Manager suite of tools for application controls, data usage alerts, and more. Mariners can also take advantage of KVH Managed Firewall for enterprise-grade cybersecurity, KVH Cloud Email to keep crews connected easily and affordably, and KVH Elite™, the premier unlimited streaming package for yachts and charters.
Customers can choose from among KVH’s affordable airtime plans and enjoy benefits like month-to-month subscriptions and 276 million sq. km (106+ million sq. miles) of coverage via KVH’s global, layered Ku-band HTS network, powered by Intelsat.
The KVH ONE OpenNet Program is compatible with most Intellian, Cobham, and other maritime VSAT terminals. Those interested in the program can visit kvh.com/OpenNet for more details.
The KVH ONE OpenNet Program is the latest addition to KVH’s growing suite of value-added services for maritime communications, joining popular options such as Crew Internet, providing vital crew connectivity and traffic allocation enablement, and KVH Link, a leading digital news and entertainment experience for crew wellbeing.
SEDNA and OrbitMI announce integration to unify vessel data platforms
Enterprise email solution SEDNA and OrbitMI, a global provider of maritime software and data products to accelerate digital transformation in maritime, have announced they are to integrate their two digital platforms.
The integration, which is already in use by one of the world’s leading tanker shipping companies, Stena Bulk, and now available to other shipping companies worldwide, will help centralise vessel data through providing a seamless flow of data across the two platforms.
This will allow vessel owners, operators and charter teams across the shipping sector with access to both digital tools to stay better informed on vessel activities and information like voyage status, position in the ocean and deviation alerts to ETA, speed, and consumption, all from within one platform so that they can more quickly and easily visualise and manage global voyages.
The integration is available to access both on SEDNA’s web browser interface and mobile app, so shipping employees can access all of the information they need, when working either in their offices or when remote or on the move.
Altogether, this unification of platforms creates a single source of truth for vessel data, removing the need to switch between apps, which can otherwise waste time and increase the risk of error when copying and pasting data, resulting in poorer decision making.
Announcing the new integration, Bill Dobie, Founder and CEO of SEDNA, said: “The major disruptions recently experienced across ocean freight operations turned the maritime industry on its head. The sector now needs to take advantage of innovative approaches, including digital technologies, to avoid facing a similar scenario in the future.
“Our new integration with OrbitMI echoes this call. Through working as ‘one’, this partnership enables vessel managers to access critical information for quick insights and action all in one place. Altogether, this creates greater supply chain visibility and improved business performance, advancing our shared vision to progress data transparency and collaboration across the sector.”
“Our collaboration with SEDNA has helped our customers eliminate silos and prevent the need to log in and out of multiple platforms and solutions through what we call ‘intelligent connected workflows’,” said CEO of OrbitMI, Ali Riaz. “Through intelligent connected workflows, we can deliver information and insights to any type of user in the context of their day-to-day tasks, allowing them to make decisions quickly. “
Discussing its value to its organisation and customers, Phil Thompson, General Manager, Commercial Operations at Stena Bulk, which has been trialling the integration, said: “The integration between Orbit and SEDNA has the potential to transform the way we work. For instance, clicking on a vessel name in SEDNA's email-based interface opens the visualization of that same vessel in Orbit's rich dashboard and map interface. That saves us time. Every minute not doing administrative tasks is a minute we can focus on our main job, and that's optimizing the operational efficiency of our vessels."
The integration, announced today, is an extension to the partnership already established between SEDNA and OrbitMI in May, 2021. Both launched in 2017, SEDNA and Orbit—the product of OrbitMI—are cloud-based technology services created to enable more efficient, productive, and collaborative workflows across organisations to advance business performance.
SEDNA integrates with maritime and other industry apps, including OrbitMI and other technologies, to go beyond email and provide a digital solution where users can easily access essential shipping data under one roof.
MariApps and zero44 partner to offer unified solution for EU ETS
MariApps Marine Solutions, provider of digital solution suites for the maritime industry, and zero44, a digital enabler focused on carbon regulation, have announced a partnership to support their customers with the EU Emission Trading System (EU ETS).
Together, the two companies will offer a one-stop-shop solution for EU ETS for the maritime sector - starting from MariApps’ established performance optimization, data collection and reporting overviews all the way through to compliance processes, stakeholder alignment, Union Registry management, and trading access provided by zero44.
MariApps’ customers benefit from a complete software suite that supports all major processes in the maritime industry, namely ship ownership, ship management, marine travel, commercial, fleet performance, procurement, finance, port agency, onboard catering, safety, environmental compliance, and electronic log and record books that support the success of maritime business operations.
zero44’s customers receive a state-of-the-art software application focused entirely on all aspects of Greenhouse Gas Emission (GHG) regulations, including a full set of features for managing the EU ETS.
To tackle the issue of climate change and reduce carbon emissions, the European Union introduced the EU ETS, which will include the maritime industry starting next year. To comply with the ETS, shipping companies must surrender EU carbon allowances (EUAs) for every ton of CO2 emitted on voyages from and to EU ports: 40% of emissions are to be compensated in 2024, 70% in 2025, and 100% from 2026 onwards.
Market prices for EUAs are highly volatile and have fluctuated between EUR 60 and 100 per ton of CO2 over the last 12 months. Depending on the share of EU emissions, an average sized vessel will face additional operating costs of up to one million euros.
Successful compliance with the system and management of the associated cost risk will require ship owners, ship managers, DoC holders, charterers, operators, and cargo owners to agree on each party’s role and responsibility (who will buy EUAs, who will bear the cost, who will carry the compliance risk), adapt their mutual contracts accordingly (shipman agreements, charter agreements) and exchange data on a regular basis.
The zero44 software will help all involved parties to keep track of the flow of allowances and money and provide direct access to EUA trading as well as the Union Registry. For MariApps’ customers, the zero44 solution will integrate with smartOps - MariApps’ existing vessel performance data tool.
"We are very excited about this partnership," said Sankar Ragavan, CEO at MariApps Marine Solutions. "At MariApps, we aim to offer the best value to all our customers by providing the most efficiently integrated digital solutions. zero44, as a European partner with deep expertise in the specifics of the EU ETS, is a powerful extension to smartOps – our vessel performance solution suite.”
Friederike Hesse, founder and CEO of zero44, added: "MariApps offers great services to their customers based on years of experience in improving processes in maritime with their digital solutions. It's an important move for us to become their partner for EU ETS and to bring additional value to their customers."
MariApps and zero44 are starting to onboard customers for EU ETS now to optimally prepare them for the start of the first EU ETS trading period in January 2024.
DNV forecasts oil demand in transport sector to halve by 2050
DNV’s latest Transport in Transition report is a deep dive into the energy transition of transport – the most dynamic of the energy demand sectors through to 2050. The report draws on DNV’s system dynamics-based Energy Transition Outlook model and explores the vast changes in fuels, electricity and infrastructure needed to transport ever-larger numbers of people and volumes of freight while at the same time decarbonizing the sector.
Despite oil demand in the transport sector forecast to halve by 2050, the present pace of the transition still falls severely short of the goals of the Paris Agreement. Opportunities to accelerate change through pilot projects and uptake of alternative energy need to be seized as soon as possible, urges the report. Today, transport of passengers and goods accounts for about a quarter of global energy-related CO2 emissions, a share that will grow to 30% by 2050.
Road transport leads the way in reducing reliance of fossil fuels, falling from 38 million barrels per day (bpd) today, to 19 million bpd in 2050, reducing share from 91% to 57%, according to DNV’s forecast. Conversely, the consumption of oil within aviation will be virtually flat to 2050, with hydrocarbons set to have a 60% share in the sector in the same year.
Driven by the decarbonisation push, the fuel mix in the maritime sector will also change significantly over the coming decades, according to the report. By 2050, it will likely transition from being almost entirely oil-based to an energy mix comprising of 50% low- and zero-carbon fuels, 19% natural gas and 18% biomass. Electricity will obtain only a 4% share, from short sea shipping and port stays for larger vessels.
CSC holds successful 34th AGM, re-elects Themis Papadopoulos as President
The Cyprus Chamber of Shipping (CSC) held its 34th Annual General Meeting with great success and participation at the Four Seasons hotel in Limassol on Tuesday 9 May. Attendees included State and Government dignitaries, political party representatives, members of the House of Representatives, diplomats, representatives of professional organisations and as well as by the resident maritime industry.
The General Meeting was addressed by the President of the Republic, Mr Nikos Christodoulides; the President of the House of Representatives, Mrs Annita Demetriou; the Secretary General of the International Chamber of Shipping (ICS), Mr Guy Platten; and the President of the CSC, Mr Themis Papadopoulos (pictured).
In his address, the President of the Republic emphasised the commitment of the new Government to continue the close cooperation with the CSC and provide the necessary political support to the shipping industry, through the quick introduction of specific mechanisms necessary to further strengthen the sector.
The President of the House of Representatives commended Shipping for having remained a strong and steady pillar of the Cyprus economy despite global economic challenges, reaffirming the Parliament’s commitment to work closely with the CSC for the advancement of the Shipping sector in Cyprus.
Mr Guy Platten congratulated Chamber President Mr Themis Papadopoulos for his recent re-election as one of the Vice-Presidents of ICS, and thanked the Chamber for its longstanding input into ICS work, helping shape a better future for International Shipping. He dubbed collaboration across the entire value chain the only way to forge a path to a decarbonised future.
Finally, the CSC President reviewed the challenges and developments that took place in 2022 in relation to Cyprus Shipping and the Chamber’s activities towards the further development of the sector. He also mentioned that Shipping is one of the most serious economic pillars of the country and enhances the prestige of Cyprus. To this end he emphasised the need for immediate completion of a ‘One-Stop-Shipping-Centre’ at the Shipping Deputy Ministry, and the swift enactment of regulations to create a ‘Shipping Company with Limited Liability’.
In relation to the longstanding Turkish Embargo to Cyprus ships, Mr Papadopoluou asked for concrete support of the Government and diplomats to use their influence to immediately lift what he called this this illegal restriction.
In addition, he stated the commitment of the Chamber to continue its efforts for the fast and sustainable green transition of the Shipping Industry, through its active involvement in regional and international Shipping organisations.
During the Meeting, elections were also held for the new Board of Directors of the Chamber for the period 2023-2025. Mr Themis Papadopoulos was re-elected as President of the CSC for a second two-year term, alongside 11 top-level executives from Member companies as Board Directors.
Telenor Maritime signs collaboration agreement with Globetech
Connectivity solutions provider Telenor Maritime has entered into a collaboration agreement with Globetech AS, an ICT technology and services specialist for vessels and floating offshore installations worldwide, thereby strengthening the potential for business development and providing greater market access for both partners.
The agreement will enable the partners to identify common business opportunities, to tender for, and to execute contracts with commercial actors within the maritime sector to benefit their commercial interests and serve the industry with a wider range of quality solutions.
“Our companies have complementary expertise and experience, which we hope can lead to us being better equipped in the market, growing our market reach, and providing our customers and the market with greater value,” says Hans Eirik Onarheim (pictured, left), CEO at Globetech.
"Telenor Maritime and Globetech each have over 20 years of experience in the maritime industry, and have complementary expertise,” says Lars Erik Lunøe (right), CEO of Telenor Maritime. “We have collaborated with Globetech before, and we are happy to finally announce the formalisation of the partnership.
“Together, we can reach an even broader market. This cooperation also drives forward our strategy to increase our capabilities within product range and strengthen our delivery capacity."
Combining their technical expertise, the partners will develop solutions to meet the rising demand for high-quality, high-capacity connectivity with a cyber-secure, redundant IT infrastructure. The partners will jointly perform use case reviews to identify which products and services are suitable for joint promotion and delivery in the market and establish a go-to-market plan for shared products and services. This will enable Telenor Maritime and Globetech to offer a wider range of innovative and tailored solutions to meet the needs of maritime customers.
The collaboration agreement is the continuation of a thriving informal cooperation between the two companies over the past 5 years. In December 2021, the companies signed a Letter of Intent Agreement with the goal to explore cooperation opportunities and assess the feasibility of entering a strategic partnership to develop and deliver ICT and connectivity products and services to offshore and maritime customers. Both parties concluded that their products, expertise, and split of responsibility were a good match and decided to formalise the cooperation through a partnership agreement.
“Choosing to become a partner with Telenor Maritime came naturally as the result of having many common interests and few activities in the market where we compete,” adds Hans Eirik Onarheim. “We have also already had several successful collaboration cases. Telenor Maritime has a strong position in the market and possesses a good pool of experience and expertise that complements Globetech. At the same time, the quality of what is delivered by Telenor Maritime is of high importance to Globetech’s business.”
International shipping to converge at Europort 2023
Taking place from 7–10 November, Europort once again brings the shipping world together in Rotterdam, which officially hosts this year’s event following its recent strategic cooperation agreement with Europort.
“Rotterdam and Europort are leaders in their respective fields and share a vision of driving the maritime industry’s transition towards a more sustainable and innovative future,” says Raymond Siliakus, Exhibitions Manager at Rotterdam Ahoy. “This year’s event perfectly reflects this shared objective, with a dynamic and diverse programme of international conferences and industry awards ceremonies alongside abundant networking opportunities and exciting social activities.”
Europort 2023 will focus on four key themes – Energy Transition, Digitalization, Ship Finance and Human Capital, a new addition to the programme – as well as nine categories of special-purpose vessels from superyachts and cruise ships to workboats and dredgers. The comprehensive programme includes the International Conference on Maritime Autonomous Surface Ships (ICMASS), the 22nd Mare Forum Ship Finance, the European Tugowners Conference and the Central Dredging Association’s (CEDA) Innovation Event.
In the spirit of Partnership & Friendship – one of Europort’s core values – Europort 2023 will make it easier than ever for attendees to connect and collaborate, Siliakus explains.
“The dedicated Digitalization Area allows pioneers in the digital transition and smart connectivity to come together and share ideas, while the Rising Stars Pavilion gives start-ups a platform to showcase their innovations to new and international audiences,” he says. “There is also the MariMatch matchmaking event for companies and institutions looking for new business and/or research partners.”
In addition to stimulating collaboration and information exchange, Europort 2023 will recognise contributions to sustainable shipping through the SAFETY4SEA Europort Awards, which comprise ceremonies for the GREEN4SEA, SMART4SEA and CAREER4SEA awards. Meanwhile, the Amver Awards acknowledge vessels that regularly participate in the Amver system, a computer-based voluntary ship reporting system used worldwide by search and rescue authorities to assist persons in distress at sea.
Outside of the formal events, Europort 2023 offers opportunities to interact in a more casual setting. On the morning of Tuesday, 7 November, the first day of the programme, the Europort BUSINESSrun allows participants to connect with like-minded professionals while supporting a good cause, with the full participation fee donated to the Mercy Ships charity. The following evening, the SS Rotterdam plays host to the Europort Cruise Party, serving up food, drink and live music with views over the river Maas and Rotterdam skyline.
UK P&I Club launches Carefully to Carry: Consolidated Edition 2023
The UK P&I Club has launched a new Consolidated 2023 Edition of its seminal cargo handling guidance ‘Carefully to Carry’, hosting a special reception to mark the event at the Yacht Club of Greece.
First launched in 2018, UK Club’s ‘Carefully to Carry’ provides the definitive guide to safe carriage, loading and storage of cargo. The highly successful 2023 edition has now been updated to reflect recent regulatory changes and best practices in the industry.
‘Carefully to Carry’ covers an exhaustive range of cargo types, including timber, gases, grain, metals, bulk goods, refrigerated goods, liquid bulk cargoes, and packaged cargoes. By utilising this guide, industry professionals can reduce the likelihood of costly cargo damage and preventable incidents.
This edition has been amended to include new content throughout the book, with key updates such as:
• A reorganised Part 2, including a new Chapter 11 on fertilizers and issues related to ammonium nitrate cargoes.
• New subsections on petroleum coke cargoes (7.2), nickel ore cargoes which may liquefy (8.4), and bauxite cargoes which may liquefy (8.5).
• New chapters on hold preparation and cleaning (Chapter 17), soya bean cargoes (Chapter 5), and seed cake cargoes (Chapter 50).
These amendments ensure that the guidance aligns with recent changes to the IMSBC Code and addresses the associated changes with bulk cargo transportation, particularly cargoes with a risk of liquefaction.
The Club celebrated the book launch with an in-person event held end-April at the Yacht Club of Greece. Sean Geraghty, Regional Director of Greece for the Club, Stuart Edmonston, Loss Prevention Director for the Club, and Dimitris Fafalios, Chairman of INTERCARGO discussed the latest updates with a diverse audience that included members of the Club, local brokers, classification societies, flag registries and members of the media.
Stuart Edmonston, Loss Prevention Director for the Club said: “We were thrilled to meet with industry experts and guests to discuss the relaunch of 2023’s ‘Carefully to Carry’ in Greece. The latest book reflects the Club’s commitment to providing the most up-to-date advice and guidance to our members. The success of previous editions underscores the importance of this comprehensive guide in ensuring safe and efficient cargo transportation. We’re confident that the latest release will continue to be an invaluable resource for the industry.”
Dimitrios Fafalios (pictured, right), INTERCARGO Chairman, commented: “Our Association is committed to safety and quality in ship operations with a focus on operational efficiency and the protection of the marine environment. The issue as to whether a cargo is safe or unsafe is crucial to the lives of those at sea and the protection of their vessels.
“This edition represents more than 60 years’ worth of experience from several generations of international cargo experts together with claims and loss prevention specialists at one of the world’s leading P&I clubs. We welcome this revised edition which is a true-one-stop shop for anyone involved in moving cargoes at sea and an initiative we are proud to support.”
Nippon Paint Marine expands into Vietnam as country’s shipbuilding and repair sector looks set for significant growth
Nippon Paint Marine is expanding its coatings production to Vietnam, in response to the growing market demand for its marine coatings, following Vietnamese government investment in the country’s shipbuilding sector.
Vietnam’s maritime industry has been declared a priority sector by the Vietnamese Government and is on track to become one of the largest shipbuilding and ship repair hubs in Asia. The demand for marine coatings across both domestic and foreign shipping fleets that are dry-docked in Vietnam is projected to grow significantly over the next few years. Over the past two years, drydock capacity has doubled in response to demand shifting from China due to Covid-19 lockdowns, plus the growth of the country’s own domestic fleet.
“We have expanded our footprint in Vietnam to include marine coatings,” said Ee Soon Hean, General Director, Nippon Paint Vietnam. “Continued growth in the maritime sector is resulting in the expansion of all the major shipbuilding and repair hubs in the country. There are six large yards in the north, the same in the south and two in central Vietnam. Our research indicates that there are approximately 4,000 vessels that will require coatings, including new-builds and existing tonnage.”
Nippon Paint Marine (Vietnam) has already secured coatings contracts with several Vietnamese shipowners, including Vietnam Ocean Shipping (VOSCO), Truong Nguyen Transport Import Export Trading Ltd, Sellan Gas Company and its Group, VIMC Shipping Company (Vinalines.)
Nippon Paint’s established facilities in industrial zones in the north, south and central regions of Vietnam will begin producing the company’s range of marine anticorrosion and protective coatings imminently, with hull and antifouling products set to be added to production lines in the 2024/5 period.
“We estimate that the total demand for marine coatings from domestic owners alone could be worth US$35 million in the medium term and even more when you consider the opportunity for foreign ship maintenance and repair in Vietnam, which continues to grow. We anticipate a 15-20% market share of the marine coatings market within the next five years,” Soon Hean said.
He added: “With our technical expertise and a local talent pool of more than 1,000 people, now is the right time to invest in Vietnam’s rapidly expanding maritime industry. We are ready to serve this market and the shipyards and owners here know us well.”
Do Quoc Vinh, Marine Coatings Business Manager, Nippon Paint Vietnam, said: “Vietnamese shipowners and yards can benefit from our locally produced, locally supplied coatings technology that is proven to save fuel, reduce emissions, and increase service time whilst reducing idle time, application time and minimising operational and maintenance costs.”
Although parent company Nippon Paint has had a presence in the country since 1989, producing decorative and automotive coatings from production plants outside Ho Chi Minh and Hanoi, the Vietnamese maritime industry has, until this year, been served by Nippon Paint Marine Singapore. Bringing on a dedicated, Vietnam-based team will enable Nippon Paint Marine to deepen its roots in the local market and grow its marine coatings business in the region.
Drydocked at Vietnam’s Pharung shipyard, VOSCO’s 9101 DWT container ship Fortune Freighter applied Nippon Paint Marine’s nanodomain structured self-polishing antifouling FASTAR XI®, in October 2022 for the first time.
A FASTAR I coating has also been applied to Truong Nguyen Sky, a 24,000 DWT new-builds bulker that Pharung shipyard is building for the Truong Nguyen Transport Import Export Trading. The VIMC bulkers VMIC Mighty and VMIC Brave have also had a FASTAR I coating applied.
ABS explores near-shore green hydrogen production in Korea
ABS joined Korean industry leaders in the signing of a memorandum of understanding (MOU) to produce a feasibility study for a near-shore floating platform of green hydrogen production and liquefaction.
ABS joins the Korea Institute of Energy Technology (KENTECH); HD Korea Shipbuilding and Offshore Engineering (HD KSOE), part of HD Hyundai Group; Linde Korea; and Linde PLC in the MOU.
The study is the latest in ABS’ pioneering work to support green hydrogen production, which includes an approval in principle (AIP) for HD Hyundai Group’s offshore green hydrogen production platform. Green hydrogen production does not require fossil fuels, but instead uses power from renewable energy sources such as offshore wind turbines to convert water into hydrogen and oxygen.
The Korean government is supporting commercial-scale production of green hydrogen, with the expectation of increasing energy self-efficiency. The feasibility study will be included in a report from the Jeolla Province to determine the viability of developing a green hydrogen production and liquification facility at a near-shore floating platform utilizing off-shore wind-power.
“Green hydrogen is a critical component in any net-zero scenario. ABS is leading the maritime industry in decarbonization and sustainability solutions, contributing our technical knowledge to develop comprehensive studies such as this one. We are proud to work with key partners to design a roadmap for the clean energy transition,” said Panos Koutsourakis, ABS Vice President, Global Sustainability.
Defibrillator project supports UK seafarer heart health
The Seafarers Hospital Society (SHS) will provide and install 20 defibrillators in ports and seafarer centres across the UK as part of its ongoing health outreach programme.
The project, which received funding from Department for Transport via leading maritime charity the Merchant Navy Welfare Board, is aimed at preventing heart-related fatalities after identifying a growing prevalence of heart disease in coastal communities.
This initiative builds on the success of a pilot project conducted by SHS and the NHS in 2022 - and aims to install 20 Lifeline Automated External Defibrillators (AED) in ports and seafarer centres across the UK by the end of 2023.
The choice to install AEDs comes because of information gathered by SHS through its SeaFit Programme and regular work with crew. The rising median age of seafarers working in the UK has shown a concurrent rise in heart attacks and other similar health-related incidents caused by high blood pressure. The rise in heart disease may also be driven by lifestyle, deprivation, stress, and other factors — per the UK Chief Medical Officer’s Annual Report 2021: Health in Coastal Communities.
Sandra Welch, CEO of the Seafarers Hospital Society, said: “We know that approximately 460 people die every day from heart and circulatory problems in the UK, and seafarers are increasingly among these numbers. Many of these deaths remain preventable, and our goal is to ensure that we minimise loss of life by providing life-saving equipment across ports and seafarer centres around the UK. We are grateful to the Department for Transport and the Merchant Navy Welfare Board for supporting our efforts to look after the heart health of seafarers and, most importantly, helping to save lives!”
Treatment with a life-saving shock from an AED is a key factor in increasing a person’s chance of survival in the event of a heart attack. They are compact, portable, require little maintenance and can be stored for long periods of time. SHS has specifically chosen AEDs which can be used safely and effectively without requiring previous training.
“The Lifeline AED devices we have chosen provide audio-visual instructions, making them universally comprehensible and allowing personnel to operate them safely even in times of panic or emergency. Additionally, we have ensured that a training — either face-to-face, virtual or via video — accompanies each AED so that personnel at these ports and centres are well-equipped to ensure seafarer wellbeing in the case of a cardiac incident,” added Welch.
SHS has already installed an AED at the Queen Victoria Seamen’s Rest (QVSR) in London (pictured).
Alexander Campbell, CEO of QVSR, said: “With 170 residents and 50 staff on the premises each day, it is reassuring to know that should there be a medical emergency we have a defibrillator on site. This important piece of equipment could save someone’s life and we are grateful to The Seafarers Hospital Society for championing this cause. QVSR also wants to say thank you on behalf of the thousands of seafarers who visit QVSR Tilbury Seafarers Centre each year, as the provision of a defibrillator at the Seafarers Centre allows us to keep seafarers and other visitors safe.”
Stuart Rivers, Chief Executive of the MNWB which is the umbrella charity for the UK Merchant Navy and fishing fleet, said: “Every minute that passes without CPR or defibrillation reduces the chances of survival by up to 10% - and this project will help save lives. Being rolled out by our long-standing constituent member Seafarers Hospital Society, these much-needed defibrillators will ensure ports and seafarer centres across the UK will feel more equipped to deal with a crisis.”
Maritime Minister Baroness Vere said: “The UK Government is committed to improving working conditions for seafarers, both in the UK and internationally, by boosting their welfare and protecting them from exploitation. I’m therefore very pleased to see government funding go towards providing 20 defibrillators in ports and seafarer centres right across the country. These measures will help save lives and ensure our seafarers know their welfare is of paramount importance.”
Alongside installations of AEDs, SHS will also conduct a webinar on June 7th at 12pm with the goal of educating seafarers about cardiovascular diseases and the benefits of healthy living. It will feature Community Heartbeat Trust’s Martin Fagan, General Practitioner Dr Charlotte Mendes Da Costa and SeaFit’s Senior Health Trainer for Fishermen Richard Beecroft.
Seabed mapping crucial to protecting our oceans
Seabed mapping will play a crucial role in helping protect the UK’s climate, oceans and coastal communities, according to Sally-Ann Hart, UK Member of Parliament (MP) for Hastings and Rye.
Speaking at the recent UK Centre of Seabed Mapping (UK CSM) showcase event in London, Hart (pictured) said building a community of maritime industry stakeholders that acquire, share and harness hydrographic data collaboratively, rather than working in isolation, was key to tackling climate change.
“Whatever we do to help protect and preserve our climate, our oceans and our coastal communities, it is clear that seabed mapping is a critical part of the infrastructure we need,” Hart said. “To that end, the UK Centre for Seabed Mapping is an exciting step forward to better harness and coordinate the rich expertise within our nation.”
The UK CSM was launched in 2022 to enable UK government organisations involved in seabed mapping to build a community where members coordinate efforts to collect and share data. This information is crucial to maritime trade, informing sustainable environmental and resource management decisions and supporting national security and infrastructure.
Hart said that climate change was a significant threat to the UK’s economy and well-being that could, if not managed properly, lead to devastating consequences such as rising sea levels, more frequent and severe storms and increased temperatures. This would subsequently compromise the UK’s infrastructure, agriculture, health and security.
However, Hart added that managing climate change was an untapped opportunity for economic growth in the UK. “The transition to a low-carbon economy can create new jobs, drive innovation, and stimulate economic growth. For example, investing in renewable energy technologies, such as wind and solar power, can create new jobs in manufacturing, construction, and installation.”
The ocean will play a critical role in helping manage climate change and unlocking opportunities for economic growth in this area, said Hart, who is Chair of the All Parliamentary Group for the Ocean (APPG), a group for parliamentarians to support and promote ocean research and awareness.
During her speech, Hart discussed some of the findings from the APPG’s The Ocean: Turning the Tide on Climate Change report, which calls for the UK government to prioritise and facilitate investment in blue carbon and ocean-based initiatives to combat climate change. The report suggests several recommendations, such as:
• Include blue carbon habitat mapping within the UK's Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ).
• Re-align and restore 20% of the UK's saltmarsh and seagrass habitats by 2030. The UK has lost more than 90% of its seagrass meadows since the 1930s, making those remaining saltmarsh and seagrass habitats an essential blue carbon habitat on UK coasts.
• Establish 'Highly Protected Marine Areas' and ban harmful practices, particularly bottom trawling and dredging, across all existing UK Marine Protected Areas (MPAs).
• Include more aspects of marine carbon storage and sequestration, specifically saltmarsh and seagrass, in the UK's Greenhouse Gas Inventory.
• Create a Minister for the Ocean to coordinate all ocean issues under one direct and exclusive ministerial responsibility.
The UK CSM showcase, held at the IMO headquarters, brought stakeholders from across the UK maritime industry together to explore the benefits of sharing and harnessing seabed mapping data.
GTMaritime launches Version 4 of GTMailPlus, its most secure, reliable and available email solution
GTMaritime, a leading provider of secure maritime data communication solutions, has further improved its GTMailPlus product with a new Version 4. The release specifically addresses the escalation in cyber security and network stability needed as ship to shore integration becomes increasingly seamless due to the advancements in Low Earth Orbit (LEO) communications.
GTMailPlus Version 4 has been specified and tested to work in the new era of satellite communications. Its advanced network switch capability allows reliable, secure and seamless email delivery whether using LEO networks, VSAT or low bandwidth connectivity to ensure users remain operable when working in a hybrid scenario.
“LEO connectivity is a big step forward for the maritime industry,” says Jamie Jones, Operations Director at GTMaritime.
“However, there will be times during a vessel’s voyage where the primary connection is not available. Having difficulties sending and receiving email during these times will have an adverse impact on vessel operations: GTMailPlus becomes invaluable in ensuring this critical communication line is available 100% of the time.
“We have also seen a large demand for GTMailPlus to compliment shore side solutions, such as Office365, which we can fully integrate with GTMailPlus, to ensure Office365 works in sub-optimal maritime conditions.”
GTMaritime understands that the rapidly changing maritime communication environment is opening up vessels to new cyber challenges. It continues to offer an enterprise grade security suite to provide robust protection from threats including zero-day attacks.
The company has also simplified the installer and incorporated its software deployment platform GTDeploy Basic as standard. This allows clients to easily manage all GTMaritime software installations and updates from the shore side free of charge.
The latest version of GTMailPlus also offers a brand-new webmail client which contains a wealth of new features focusing on productivity, including: an advanced WYSIWYG editor; enhanced message and folder management; improved search and sorting; and performance optimisations to improve the onboard user experience.
“We’re really pleased to offer all of the above benefits to our customers as standard,” adds Jones. “The continuous investment in our products, specifically in cyber security, allows our customers to be assured that their communications are protected so they can focus on their core business operations."
The latest version of GTMailPlus is now available to all existing GTMaritime customers via the management dashboard, with a free trial available to new customers. For more information, please visit https://www.gtmaritime.com/gtmailplus.
RINA awards AIP for ammonia-fuelled bunker tanker
Classification society RINA recently issued an Approval-in-Principle (AiP) for the design of a 21,000 (cbm) ammonia bunker tanker jointly developed by SeaTech Solutions and Fratelli Cosulich Bunkers Singapore.
The AiP for the ammonia bunker tanker was carried out in compliance with the process described in the “RINA Guide for Approval in Principle of Novel Technologies”, based on the technical criteria of the RINA Rules for the Classification of Ships (2023), IGF Code and IGC Code, as amended. It marks a significant milestone for the joint development project (JDP) that started in November 2021.
Simone Manca, Marine Asia Senior Director at RINA, said, “Ammonia offers potential for the decarbonisation of the marine sector, and this AiP brings the practicality of its use as an alternative fuel a step closer. We are delighted to be able to support this innovation. RINA will continue to follow technological and regulatory developments to meet the needs and expectations of the shipping industry and to promote all possible pathways to net zero.”
Guido Cardullo, Head of Business Development at Fratelli Cosulich, said: "Fratelli Cosulich is committed to playing a critical role in reducing greenhouse gas emissions in the shipping industry by facilitating the adoption of low-carbon or carbon-free alternatives fuels, such as green ammonia, which has received much attention recently due to its established production technology, distribution infrastructure, and satisfactory energy density as a marine fuel.
“Fratelli Cosulich Group, through its subsidiary company Fratelli Cosulich Bunkers Singapore, is pleased to collaborate with RINA and SeaTech in establishing a secure and dependable ammonia bunkering service in Singapore.”
Prabjot Singh Chopra, VP (Technology) SeaTech Solutions said: “Embracing the multiple pathways to maritime decarbonisation creates new opportunities in the bunkering industry. Despite the challenges of designing an ammonia bunker vessel amidst evolving technology and regulations, we appreciate the invaluable operational insights shared by the Fratelli Cosulich team and the expert guidance provided by RINA Class.
“The AIP for the innovative and cost-effective design is a significant achievement in advancing the safety of ammonia bunkering in Singapore, marking a new milestone in the journey to decarbonisation.”
IFCHOR Galbraiths acquires UNO Offshore
International shipbroker IFCHOR Galbraiths (IG) will be providing offshore brokerage services in the oil and gas market following its acquisition of Norwegian offshore specialist UNO Offshore.
Founded in 2010, with a seven strong team based in Bergen and Haugesund, UNO Offshore focuses on providing chartering, newbuild, sale & purchase, research and consulting services related to the oil and gas sector. UNO Offshore will be renamed IG Offshore.
Commenting on the move, IG Co-CEO, Bjorn Andersen said: “We are delighted to bring Hans and his experienced team into the IG family. Hans’s background speaks for itself and the team has been successful through a difficult period in the offshore market which we now firmly believe has strong fundamentals and a positive outlook.
We already have a significant market presence in the international offshore renewables sector through our 50% partnership with GRS.Offshore Renewables (GRS) and we see exciting new opportunities and synergies with the two businesses. Our vision is to build a robust, competitive, international shipbroking network capable of servicing our client base across all sectors and geographical locations.”
UNO Offshore Managing Director Hans Christensen said: “This is an exciting day for UNO Offshore, our people and our clients. By becoming part of one of the largest and fastest growing global shipbroking groups, we will be able to grow our footprint and increase the breadth and depth of the services we offer. We look forward to leveraging on our current position and growing IG Offshore to meet our clients’ demands and are excited by the prospects ahead.”
IG is the result of the 2022 merger between IFCHOR and Galbraiths. With the acquisition of UNO Offshore, the company now has offices in 23 locations and over 300 employees. It is already active in the dry bulk, tanker, S&P, renewable, and carbon advisory sectors.
Navarino and VIKAND partnership provides innovative maritime health care
Navarino, the maritime sector's pioneer in cutting edge IT and mobile connectivity solutions, and VIKAND, the global maritime healthcare specialist, have announced their partnership to offer remote medical care and mental health support to the maritime industry.
The partnership combines Navarino's Infinity and high-speed satellite connectivity solutions with VIKAND’s OneHealth solution, a fully integrated maritime healthcare platform. Together, the partnership provides ship owners, captains, managers, and crew with a proactive approach to onboard healthcare.
As various predictions point to a shortfall in crew numbers in the coming years, it is more vital than ever to retain the current seafarer population and encourage more to join. One of the key factors in supporting this is by providing first class connectivity and healthcare services.
OneHealth by VIKAND provides seafarers direct access to medical advice and assistance, ranging from real-time video calls with medical professionals, rapid diagnosis based on remote reading of vital peripherals, mental wellness programs and crises intervention.
Reflecting unwavering dedication to seafarers’ human sustainability, OneHealth by VIKAND focuses on a holistic approach to crew welfare. VIKAND provides a total healthcare solution for physical and mental health, diagnoses, and mitigation of chronic, routine and emergency medical needs, strategies for overall health and wellness, and crisis communications as needed.
OneHealth by VIKAND also serves as an interactive database where fleet managers and vessel command can review anonymized crew welfare data and offers invaluable insight via its reporting function. Using this information, operators can make data driven decisions on additional training or new risk mitigation procedures to achieve a higher level of care onboard.
The partnership of Navarino and VIKAND is rooted in seafarer wellness. The results are the safe and efficient operation of the vessel and client efficiencies based on the most innovative mobile connectivity systems paired with best practices for onboard health. By combining their strengths, the partnership builds on their successful track record of delivering innovative solutions to the maritime industry.
Dimitris Tsikopoulos, CEO of Navarino, said, "We are pleased to partner with VIKAND to offer our customers with a complete remote healthcare service. Our solutions provide the ideal technological platform from which OneHealth by VIKAND, and its medical and mental health management services can help ensure the overall health and wellbeing of those who live and work at sea."
"Working with Navarino is a natural fit for VIKAND," said Peter Hult, CEO of VIKAND. "Our shared commitment to innovation, seafarer sustainability and wellness makes this partnership a win for our clients and for the maritime industry as a whole."
Triworld Shipping Services awarded NAMEPA’s Maritime Sustainability Passport
NAMEPA, the North American Marine Environment Protection Association, has awarded its Maritime Sustainability Passport Certificate and Seal to Triworld Shipping Services (TSS). The MSP program encompasses each of NAMEPA’s Transparency Pillars in its Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) metrics and TSS has demonstrated its compliance with these pillars.
“It all started with the ESG 101 Workshop, where we learned the word ‘sustainability’ encompassed more than just following pollution regulations to take care of the environment or keeping a recycling bin in our office,” said TSS President Milind Trilokekar. “We found the MSP application well designed to suit not only the big companies, but also suited for relatively small outfits such as ours. A big thanks to NAMEPA for giving us a formal ESG policy and a road map for our sustainability.”
TSS is an ocean transportation group in the dry bulk shipping arena with expertise in vessel and cargo management. As an example of its dedication to ESG principles, TSS is continuously engaged in monitoring that its Managers’ performance regarding the ship’s conditions for environmental safety, as well as onboard procedures for crew management, are properly aligned with its ESG standards and goals.
TSS successfully passed NAMEPA’s MSP program and qualified for the MSP Seal, signifying it met or exceeded the program’s guidelines of best practices using ESG principles. Some of the program’s many benefits include increased efficiency, stakeholder visibility, and positive global impact.
In 2021, NAMEPA’s MSP program won the 2021 Green4Sea Initiative Award, given to an organization that has sparked, realized, or significantly contributed to a specific initiative toward greener shipping.
EST-Floattech’s Octopus Series Battery System receives LR and BV Type Approval for maritime applications
EST-Floattech is pleased to announce that its Octopus Series Battery System has received Lloyd's Register (LR) and Bureau Veritas (BV) Type Approval for maritime applications. The first projects for this newly designed and assembled marine Energy Storage System, previously type-approved by DNV, are already being delivered.
Both LR and BV witnessed the rigorous tests that EST-Floattech conducted on the Octopus Series Battery System to ensure its compliance with the latest industry standards and regulations. The large and experienced classification societies approved the tests performed and showed by granting marine Type Approval that the safety and performance of the system meet their standards.
"We are glad that our 'safe by design' mentality has been recognized through this Lloyd's Register and Bureau Veritas Type Approval for Maritime Battery Systems," said Diederick Stam, CTO at EST-Floattech. "This achievement reinforces our commitment to providing the safest and most reliable battery systems to the maritime industry."
Unlocking opportunities for green shipping in Africa
Africa's abundance of solar, wind and thermal energy across the continent can place Africa at the core of the global decarbonisation of maritime transport, the IMO conference on Low-Carbon Shipping in Africa heard last week (5 May).
Speaking at the Conference, held in In Mombasa, Kenya and co-organized with the Kenya Maritime Authority, Mr Xiaojie Zhang, Director, Technical Cooperation Division, IMO, reminded delegates that 2023 is a critical year for maritime decarbonisation, with Member States at the 80th session of IMO's Marine Environment Protection Committee (MEPC) in London the first week of July set to adopt IMO's 2023 GHG Strategy.
Mr. Zhang called on African nations to "to make your voice heard, and to unlock the great potential the phase out of greenhouse gas emissions of international shipping can generate in Africa.
"When IMO adopts this July a revised GHG Strategy with a clear phase out date of greenhouse gas emissions from international shipping, the global shipping industry will actively look at providers of alternative shipping fuels and African ports could become future energy hubs for low carbon shipping fuels," Mr Zhang said.
He emphasized the importance of carbon revenues that could be generated through an IMO economic measure - like a fuel levy - for financing port infrastructure, retrofitting capacity, or bunkering facilities across Africa.
This theme was echoed by Ambassador Ms Nancy Karigithu, Special Envoy on Blue Economy, Kenya, who highlighted the range of range of financing mechanisms, such as public-private partnerships, climate funds, and green bonds, to support the transition to low-carbon shipping. She emphasized, too, the need for the transition in maritime to low-carbon shipping in Africa to consider the socio-economic dimensions of the challenge. "The transition needs to be inclusive and equitable," she said.
The Hon. Mr Kwaku Ofori Asiamah, Minister of Transport, Ghana, echoed the call for Africa's participation at IMO meetings, "to ensure our needs and concerns are addressed and also indicate our support or otherwise for global maritime regulations.
"Africa is the key to speeding up global climate action on the Decarbonisation Agenda. With its young and growing workforce, vast lands and various natural resources, the continent has the potential to make an important contribution to tackle climate change. These assets could be crucial in driving global efforts to mitigate the effects of climate change, while creating new economic opportunities," Mr Ofori Asiamah said.
Many delegates who spoke voiced the need for IMO to give clear direction through its revised climate strategy. In his final remarks, Roel Hoenders, Head, Air Pollution and Energy Efficiency, IMO, agreed that "setting an ambitious GHG reduction target at MEPC 80 will send a strong signal to the market and investors that maritime is ready to decarbonize - and this will bring new investments and new jobs to Africa".
Closing the conference, Mr Shadrack Mwadime, Principal Secretary, State Department for Shipping and Maritime Affairs, said that the discussions held during the conference "will better help African countries to prepare for the upcoming Marine Environment Protection Committee meeting in July, and for African countries to have a common approach on how we want the international community to address greenhouse gas emissions".
MSC announces new office in Tempe Arizona
MSC Mediterranean Shipping Company has announced plans to open its new MSC Tempe office, expanding the company’s network of locations across the United States.
Located on the Arizona State University (ASU) campus, the construction of the state-of-the-art 777 Tower is set to be completed by Spring of 2024. The 28,302-square-foot space on the 6th floor of the tower will welcome 170 MSC employees, where given the vast Phoenix-metro talent pool, most positions will be filled locally.
Set to provide MSC’s signature customer service and local logistics expertise within the PST time zone, MSC’s new office in Tempe will also benefit from ASU’s diverse alumni network and access to innovative research.
“We are thrilled to announce that we will be opening our latest branch office in Tempe in 2024, welcoming new team members to the MSC family,” said Fabio Santucci, President, MSC USA. “The opening of this new location is a significant step towards establishing a more robust presence in the rapidly expanding West Coast and Gulf regions.
“Furthermore, as we seek to grow our presence in the area, this presents us with an excellent opportunity to strengthen our existing ties with customers in the region.”
The addition of the Tempe office will mark MSC’s 10th office in the United States, including Baltimore MD, Boston MA, Charleston SC, Chicago IL, Costa Mesa CA, Houston TX, Miami FL, New Orleans LA, and its New York headquarters.
Harren & Partner rebrands to Harren Group
Privately owned maritime services and logistics conglomerate Harren & Partner, founded I. 1989 and based in Bremen, announces that it has changed its name to Harren Group.
The launch of this group brand marks the start of a new era of collaboration and innovation within the organisation to further enhance customer satisfaction. While the group’s individual company brands remain, this step unites these brands and its people across land and sea through a shared vision, mission and set of values to build the next generation of maritime services and logistics.
“There is one global ocean, and we are one global group – bringing together the best thinkers and doers to move the world forward,” says Dr Martin Harren, CEO of Harren Group. This is an exciting step for all Harren Group members: Harren Bulkers, Harren Tankers, Harren Ship Management, SAL Heavy Lift, SAL Engineering, Intermarine, Combi Lift, Atheleon, trans-Mar-supply, HeavyLift@Sea and all affiliated service units. As a part of this world-renowned group, they are dedicated to becoming the bridge to the future – and the industry benchmark for what’s possible.
“It is crucial for everyone to know that our commercial brands are still operating as individual group members. The key difference: We will now be united under one strong group brand. Lifting customer expectations, collaborating to achieve what others have not and building a greener tomorrow,” adds Dr Martin Harren.
The transition to Harren Group kicks off with the rollout of the new brand identity across all communication channels, including the company’s website, social media platforms and marketing materials. The Harren Group says its rebrand comes at a time when the industry is experiencing significant transformation and demand for carbon-neutral end-to-end solutions is continuously growing.
Hapag-Lloyd Q1 results: good resilience in weaker market environment
Hapag-Lloyd has concluded the first quarter of 2023 with an EBITDA of USD 2.4 billion (EUR 2.2 billion). EBIT decreased to USD 1.9 billion (EUR 1.7 billion) compared to the same quarter last year, and the Group profit was also below the prior-year level, at USD 2 billion (EUR 1.9 billion).
Transport volumes were 4.9 percent lower than in the first quarter of last year, at 2,842 TTEU (Q1 2022: 2,987 TTEU), owing to local destocking and weaker overall global demand. In addition, the lower average freight rate of 1,999 USD/TEU (Q1 2022: 2,774 USD/TEU) was particularly responsible for the decline in revenue, which decreased to USD 6 billion (EUR 5.6 billion). Transport expenses remained at the prior-year level of USD 3.3 billion: The lower transport volumes were accompanied by inflation-related cost increases and a higher bunker consumption price, of USD 645/t (Q1 2022: USD 613/t).
“Despite declining results, we have made a robust start to the current financial year,” said Rolf Habben Jansen, CEO of Hapag-Lloyd AG.
“The market environment has normalised, with corresponding declines in demand and freight rates. This will undoubtedly have an impact on our earnings over the course of the year, so we will be keeping a very close eye on our costs.
“In addition, we are pressing ahead on further developing our Group’s ‘Strategy 2030’, which will focus on quality and sustainability.”
For the full year 2023, Hapag-Lloyd confirms the forecast it published on 2 March. EBITDA is expected to be in the range of USD 4.3 to 6.5 billion (EUR 4 to 6 billion) and EBIT to be in the range of USD 2.1 to 4.3 billion (EUR 2 to 4 billion). However, the ongoing war in Ukraine, other geopolitical uncertainties and persistent inflationary pressures are creating risks that could negatively impact the forecast.
UAE Maritime Week sets ambitious goals for maritime innovation and sustainability
Held under the patronage of the UAE Ministry of Energy and Infrastructure (MOEI UAE), the UAE Maritime Week held its official press conference this week in anticipation of the upcoming 2023 edition of its conference and exhibition. The event, scheduled to take place from May 15th to May 19th, 2023 at the Dubai World Trade Centre, is poised to serve as a pivotal networking platform for advancing the maritime industry's development, and charting a course towards a more sustainable and prosperous future.
During the press conference, government officials, including representatives from MOEI UAE and the Dubai Police, along with prominent maritime entities such as the Emirates Shipping Association (ESA), Dubai Shipping Agents Association (DSAA), and the National Association of Freight and Logistics (NAFL), articulated their strategic plans for elevating the sector's capabilities and bolstering its efficiency and sustainability.
The UAE Maritime Week, and its flagship event, Seatrade Maritime Logistics Middle East (SMLME), aim to stimulate the sector's advancement and fortify the UAE's prospects for maintaining its Executive Council category ‘B’ membership status at the IMO. With a keen focus on promoting innovation in maritime and advancing sustainability objectives, the event is also ideally timed to coincide with the upcoming 28th Conference of the Parties to the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change (COP 28) to be held in Dubai beginning November 30th.
According to H.E. Eng. Hessa Al Malek, Advisor to the Minister for Maritime Transport Affairs at MOEI UAE, the country boasts an unrivalled maritime pedigree, fuelled by its boundless potential, exceptional capabilities, and a pool of highly qualified professionals. With its 20 leading ports and a host of government and private sector entities, the UAE has cemented its reputation as a global maritime hub, committed to the seamless facilitation of international trade.
Al Malek emphasised: “In light of this, the forthcoming UAE Maritime Week presents a vital opportunity for industry stakeholders to take stock of past accomplishments, chart a course towards a more sustainable future, and enhance the sector's efficiency and competitiveness.
“Notably, our government has worked in close collaboration with industry strategic players to bolster the maritime regulatory framework and governance, invest in human capital development, and create an enabling business environment that stimulates growth and innovation.”
The UAE has invested heavily in modern infrastructure, advanced technology, and a robust legal framework to safeguard its waters and promote secure maritime trade. The country has also actively engaged in international efforts to combat maritime threats such as piracy, terrorism, smuggling, and illegal fishing.
Further emphasising these efforts, Dr Colonel Hassan Suhail Thabet, Deputy Director, Dubai Ports Police Station said: “We strive to maximise safety, security, and efficiency in UAE's ports while protecting the marine environment. Through initiatives such as ‘Mariners' Meet’, we work to communicate and collaborate with the maritime community. Our goal is to build a secure maritime ecosystem and raise awareness about relevant concerns and solutions. Partnering with the UAE Maritime Week allows us to inform and educate the public to reduce marine accidents and threats.”
Emma Howell, Middle East Development Director, Informa Markets Maritime & Cruise portfolio, informed that: “This year, we will have over 105 speakers diving into the details of the most insightful topics, and expect over 7,000 visitors to benefit from these discussions. Moreover, our attendees and exhibitors are set to sign over 10 MoUs during the event. This validates the fact that the UAE Maritime Week is the ideal place for business. With that, we look forward to a very successful event for all of us next week.”
Register now and be part of the UAE Maritime Week: https://bit.ly/3R0fljh
Multraship names two Damen tugs in Terneuzen
Multraship Towage & Salvage this week named two Damen-built tugs at a Christening ceremony held last week at Multraship’s home port of Terneuzen, the Netherlands.
Multratug 5, a Damen Stan Tug 1205 and Multratug 6, a Damen ASD Tug 2810, were immediately entered into service upon delivery to Multraship and are currently in operation in the River Scheldt area. The speed with which the tugs were delivered was thanks to Damen’s practice of building in series and for stock – a feature that Multraship, as a long-term client of Damen’s – has long benefitted from.
Although based on proven, standard designs, Damen is able to tailor its vessels to the requirements of ¬its clients. In the case of Multratug 6, this included a winterisation package, FiFi-1 class notation and installation of an aft winch, amongst many other additional features.
Multratug 6 also has the distinction of being the last Damen ASD Tug 2810 ever to be built. Following the sale of over 200 vessels, the ASD Tug 2810 is Damen’s most successful design to date and can be found operating in harbours all around the world.
Capt. Leendert Muller, Managing Director, Multraship, commented at the ceremony: “We work hard to ensure that our fleet reflects the needs and requirements of our customers and that we are best equipped to provide rapid, reliable and safe towage and salvage services at any time. For this, we need to have high-quality tugs with a range of operational capabilities. We know we can rely on Damen to meet our specifications and deliver high-spec vessels and we are very pleased to formally welcome Multratug 5 and Multratug 6 to our fleet.”
The naming ceremony was attended by a number of guests on behalf of Damen including Mijndert Wiesenekker, sales director Benelux, and Vincent Maes, sales manager Benelux.
Mr Maes said: “It’s a pleasure to be here to witness this special occasion. The event is made even more poignant with Multratug 6 being the last ASD Tug 2810 to be delivered. The design of the tug, like all vessels in our portfolio, has been developed with lots of valuable input from our clients.
“Multraship, as a long-standing customer of many years, has provided with us many useful insights that have been incorporated into the evolution of our tugs. We’re grateful to enjoy this relationship of mutual benefit and look forward to continuing our collaboration in the years ahead.”
The vessels were delivered to Multraship during a period of wider fleet expansion, with the company also adding two ERTVs, Multraship Commander and Multraship Protector, as well as the Multrasalvor 6, a Damen Multi Cat and salvage support vessel along with another Damen harbour tug, Multratug 9, over the past year.
Multraship is a division of the Muller Maritime Group, which has been engaged in the shipping industry for more than 230 years. Multraship’s core activities include harbour towage, salvage & wreck removal, ocean towage and support to offshore energy & dredging industries.
ATS, MPET and PSA launch first fully electric straddle carrier in mainland Europe
MSC PSA European Terminal (MPET), officially launched a new fully electric straddle carrier (e-straddle carrier) at its terminal in the Port of Antwerp today, as part of the joint Green Straddle Carrier Program initiated by Antwerp Terminal Services (ATS), MPET and PSA Antwerp (PSAA).
This is an important milestone for the port as the straddle carrier is the first-of-its-kind in mainland Europe. Konecranes, a global manufacturer of cranes and lifting equipment, built this e-straddle carrier by applying the latest battery technology to allow continuous operation for more than four hours,without any dip in performance.
In line with the UN Paris Climate Agreement and the EU Green Deal, ATS, MPET and PSAA aim to reduce their carbon emissions by 50 percent in 2030, against a 2019 baseline and achieve net-zero emissions for all their terminals by 2050. As part of their plan to reach these objectives, the e-straddle carrier, which runs 100 percent on batteries and takes approximately 90 minutes to fully recharge, can play an
important role in the long run by helping to reduce terminal greenhouse gas emissions. Currently, all electricity purchased by MPET and the PSA terminals in Belgium is solely from renewable sources thus there will not be any greenhouse gases emitted while producing energy to power the e-straddle carriers.
Over the coming months, MPET will evaluate the e-straddle carrier’s performance in live operations. During this trial period, ATS will assess how the equipment can be improved, and examine other factors that are necessary to scale up this new technology, including how to optimize the recharging of a larger fleet and the possibility of safely and effectively progressing to full scale operations.
Johan Van Daele, CEO at MPET is enthusiastic about the new e-straddle carrier: "The energy transition from fossil fuels to more sustainable alternatives is in full swing and we are taking a leading role at our terminals. Although we still have many obstacles to clear before scaling up our e-straddle carrier program, having a working prototype is an important first step to a zero-emission straddle carrier fleet.”
The e-straddle carrier feasibility study is part of the joint Green Straddle Carrier Program, in which the terminal operators are holistically evaluating four major technological pathways to significantly reduce these vehicles’ carbon emissions in their actual working environment - full electrification, hydrogen, hybrid battery/diesel and biofuel. Conclusive results from the study will determine which technology
will be scaled up to meet future energy needs.
Francis De Ruytter, Regional Head of Sustainability for PSA Europe, Mediterranean and the Americas, emphasizes the importance of targeting straddle carriers to reach PSA’s sustainability goals. “Straddle carriers are crucial in maintaining highly productive operations at our terminals, but at the same time they are responsible for approximately 90 percent of our direct emissions in Belgium. We are examining alternatives, while concurrently investing in our Green Straddle Carrier program that
explores various technological options and partners to make these vehicles more sustainable in the near term.”
ADNOC L&S and SeaOwl sign agreement to design marine supply ROVs
ADNOC Logistics & Services (ADNOC L&S), the shipping and maritime logistics arm of ADNOC (Abu Dhabi National Oil Company), has signed an agreement with SeaOwl for the design of unmanned Remotely Operated Vessels (ROV) capable of transporting vehicles, equipment and supplies to and from offshore sites.
The agreement was signed by Capt. Abdulkareem Al Masabi, CEO of ADNOC L&S and Xavier Génin, CEO of SeaOwl at the UAE Climate Tech Forum organized by the Ministry of Industry and Advanced Technology (pictured).
The innovative design of the ROV will reduce carbon emissions up to 30% as the vessel will be lighter and smaller, as facilities for a crew are not required. In addition, the smart automation systems will optimize routing and propulsion, further decarbonizing ADNOC L&S’ offshore operations in support of the UAE’s Net Zero by 2050 Strategic Initiative and ADNOC’s 2030 Sustainability Agenda.
Capt. Abdulkareem Al Masabi, CEO of ADNOC L&S said: "A strategic commitment to sustainability and innovation plays a crucial role in ADNOC L&S’ ability to serve its customers. The vessel is another example of this commitment as we leverage the latest technology to optimize our maritime operations, reduce our carbon footprint and improve safety while increasing efficiency."
The design for the 55metre-long ROV will allow the vessels to be operated from an onshore control room through a satellite link using the latest automation and self-navigation technology. The design will utilize state of the art artificial intelligence systems to control propulsion, dynamic positioning, remote communication and cyber security.
SeaOwl, a French company specializing in the automation and digitalization of maritime services, will design the vessel, oversee its construction, and facilitate navigation permits. Seaowl will partner with Bureau Veritas (BV), a world leader in testing, inspection, and certification, to facilitate obtaining the necessary navigation permits from the UAE maritime transportation affairs.
Xavier Génin, CEO of SeaOwl said: “After the success of our Proof of Concept supported by the French Government, we are delighted to join forces with ADNOC L&S to bring a new era of sustainable logistics operations through digital automatization. This project will create strong ties with the UAE industrial landscape, as we plan to engage many other UAE players in this exciting journey.”
This design will improve safety and reduce operational costs as the vessels will be able to operate in harsher conditions with no exposure to seafarers.
Upon construction, the ROVs will join ADNOC L&S' large and diverse fleet of modern and technologically advanced vessels. Combined with its 1.5 million square meter logistics base in Abu Dhabi and its integrated logistics capabilities, ADNOC L&S is one of the region's largest shipping and integrated logistics companies.
APM Terminals pledges $1 billion investment in Brazilian terminals by 2026
As part of a Dutch trade delegation to Brazil last week, APM Terminals’ CEO Keith Svendsen pledged a €962 million ($1.05 billion) investment in its Brazilian operations up to 2026.
This figure includes investment for Phase One development of a new terminal in Suape, as well as for the company’s four other terminals and inland depots, a large share of which is allocated to Brasil Terminal Portuário (BTP), Santos.
BTP (pictured) is operated in partnership with Terminal Investment Limited (TIL), a subsidiary of the MSC group). APM Terminals is negotiating with the federal government to extend its concession agreement, which expires in 2027, for another 20 years. In exchange, APM Terminals would modernise and double the current 1.5 million TEU capacity of the terminal, which is currently operating at close to full capacity (92%). The new government, however, has not yet defined the future of the project, which has been put on hold for reassessment.
Under the previous government, the tender was subject to controversy, as other port operators expressed concern over the dominance of Maersk and MSC, the parent companies of APM Terminals and TIL respectively. Responding to this, APM Terminals’ CEO Keith Svendsen said that experience in other countries shows that the concern is unfounded.
With BTP operating at 92% capacity – and an 80% capacity generally seen as the maximum for optimal efficiency, Svendsen stated: “Our primary focus is increasing capacity and modernisation. There is now an urgent need for investment in the Port of Santos, both to ensure the deepening of the access channel - which will allow the entry of new, larger, and more efficient ships - and to expand capacity of the port complex, which is close to the limit.”
Maersk strengthens footprint in Oman with inauguration of new office at SOHAR Freezone
A. P. Moller – Maersk (Maersk) inaugurated a new corporate office at SOHAR Freezone in Oman earlier this month. Present at the inauguration were Christopher Cook, Managing Director, Maersk UAE, Oman, and Qatar; Omar Al Mahrizi, CEO, SOHAR Freezone, and other senior leaders from Maersk and Sohar Freezone.
Christopher Cook said: “Oman is a significant market for us where we are committed to serving our important customers by bringing world-class integrated logistics solutions closer to them. Our ambition is to simplify the supply chains, make them efficient and transparent, and thus contribute towards the Oman Vision 2040 that aims at making Oman a competitive economy.”
He added: “SOHAR Freezone was a natural choice for us to set up our new office because of its strategic location at the port and the world-class infrastructure of road network and air connectivity on offer.”
The new office in Oman, the third one in the country after Muscat and Salalah, will allow Maersk to get closer to its customers and create meaningful interfaces with them. Besides ocean transportation, Maersk will offer a host of services and solutions to its customers in Oman, such as landside transportation, including cross border movement of cargo, customs clearances, warehousing & distribution, cold chain logistics and air freight.
Omar Mahmood Al Mahrizi, CEO of SOHAR Freezone, said: “As a full-integrated logistics and industrial hub enabling global business partnerships, we are pleased to welcome Maersk, a global integrated logistics company, as our latest tenant at SOHAR Freezone.
“This partnership will enable us to streamline our operations further as we continue to focus on logistics and supply chain optimisation and strengthen our position as a smart logistics hub. Together with our partners, SOHAR continues to support Oman’s ambitions to further expand the transport and logistics sector, as per the objectives laid out in the Oman Vision 2040.”
The new office complements the several other initiatives Maersk has undertaken to strengthen its footprint in Oman. In November 2022, Maersk added Khazaen Dry Port (KDP) to its extensive ‘Port of Call’ network, offering transportation, container terminal, and reefer container services to import and export goods easily. Around the same time, Maersk also launched a service through the Port of Salalah in Oman as a gateway to Yemen, ensuring seamless cargo movement. This has increased efficiency for the customers and has the potential to eliminate unexpected costs.
XFuel secures ISCC certification for sustainable drop-in fuels plant
Producer of sustainable drop-in fuels and carbon removal XFuel has been awarded both International Sustainability and Carbon Certification (ISCC) EU and ISCC Plus, allowing the company to produce low- and zero-carbon fuel according to strict sustainability criteria including traceability throughout the entire supply chain and demonstrable greenhouse gas (GHG) savings.
XFuel’s conversion technology produces sustainable drop-in fuels for the marine, aviation and road transport sectors. The company has developed unique drop-in fuel technology which simultaneously produces biochar, a carbon removal product delivering additional carbon benefits via sequestration, on top of those unlocked by the production of sustainable fuels.
XFuel uses waste feedstocks from agriculture, forestry, construction and manufacturing, as well as waste oils and converts them into compliant low and zero carbon sustainable fuels, opening a door to vast untapped sources of energy. Using waste feedstocks in this way contributes to a circular economy and prevents emissions that would occur if the feedstock was left to rot or be incinerated.
Dr Nicholas Ball (pictured), CEO of XFuel, commented on the certification: “We want to change the way the alternative fuels market currently works, by lowering the cost of sustainable fuels and increasing circularity in production. XFuel is constantly innovating to deliver the best possible impact on emissions for the fuels we make and the feedstocks we process.
“As a sustainable fuel company providing low-carbon clean fuel to maritime, aviation and road transport, the ISCC certification for our plant operations in Spain is an essential part of being able to deliver on this goal for our customers.”
Nor-Shipping and Norwegian Energy Partners to hold First Nor-Shipping Offshore Wind Conference
Accelerating, enabling and supporting the rapid development of offshore wind will be front of mind at the First Nor-Shipping Offshore Wind Conference, with a diverse array of industry leaders centre stage to discuss the latest demands, innovations and segment trends. Taking place on Wednesday 7 June at the main Nor-Shipping exhibition facilities in Lillestrøm, Norway, the breakthrough initiative is a collaboration between Nor-Shipping and Norwegian Energy Partners (NORWEP).
The half day conference, running between 12.00 and 16.00, will mix networking and knowledge sharing with a lively mix of presentations and panel discussions.
Participants span a broad spectrum of offshore wind development, support and service, including names such as: Stuart Fitzgerald, CEO, Seaway7; Mikkel Gleerup, CEO, Cadeler; Alexandra Koefoed, CEO, Fred. Olsen Windcarrier; Kent Vinkel, CEO, Windspider; Hugo Bouvy, Managing Director, DEME Offshore; Tone Lunde Bakker, CEO, Export Finance Norway; and many more.
The need for such an event, says Jon Dugstad (pictured), Director Wind, NORWEP, is crystal clear. “The ambition, and opportunity, with offshore wind is growing all the time, but we need to secure the pathways for translating that into business, and energy, reality. This conference will address key issues and trends, engaging global business leaders and experts to assess the optimal ways to unlock value.
“We’ll be looking at the crucial role maritime has to play in enabling developments – highlighting critical offshore competencies and assets, such as those offered by NORWEP members – assessing how to get the supply chain primed for a rapidly progressing industry. The latest technologies, sustainability issues, capacity questions and the drives for efficiency will all be under the spotlight. We believe there’s something for everyone with an interest in this essential renewable energy sector.”
Key sessions will invite the experts to consider how maritime can meet the demands of a segment that wants to go “higher, further, faster, more!”, trailblazing solutions for installation and operations, how to minimise the industry’s carbon footprint, and the role Norway has to play in supporting the industry, in Europe and beyond. Clarksons and Global Centres of Excellence; Ocean Technologies and Maritime Cleantech are also collaborating on the initiative.
“Offshore wind has a crucial role to play in delivering secure, sustainable energy supplies to power a greener tomorrow,” comments Sidsel Norvik, Director, Nor-Shipping. “But to achieve our aims we need to foster the right relationships and really understand the complex, evolving demands of a variety of stakeholder groups. That’s why working in #PartnerShip, the main theme of Nor-Shipping 2023, is central to success here.
“With this is mind we’re delighted to join with NORWEP on this first-of-its-kind endeavour, cementing strong links between our traditional maritime audience and our growing base of energy partners and supporters. The high quality line-up of speakers, and the fact that tickets are selling out so fast, is a testimony to just how strongly people support this drive. It’s going to be a fantastic event, for a segment with truly outstanding potential. See you there!”
Nor-Shipping runs from 6-9 June, bringing the global maritime and ocean industries together at venues across Oslo and Lillestrøm.
In addition to 22,000m2 of exhibition space, a host of social, networking and knowledge sharing activities are planned, including the Ocean Leadership Conference, the Blue Talks, the first Offshore Aquaculture Conferences, the 2nd Maritime Hydrogen Conference, The Nor-Shipping BBQ, the Fourth International Autonomy Summit, the AfterWork@AkerBrygge social scene, and much more.
“K” LINE agrees long-term time charter agreement with Diamond Gas International for one new LNG Vessel
Kawasaki Kisen Kaisha, Ltd. (“K” LINE) is pleased to announce the signing of a 15-year long-term time charter contract (with an option to extend the contract up to 10 additional years) with Mitsubishi Corporation subsidiary Diamond Gas International Pte. Ltd. (DGI). “K” LINE has also concluded a shipbuilding contract with Samsung Heavy Industries Co., Ltd. (Samsung) for a 174,000 m3 LNG carrier.
This is the first long-term time charter contract between DGI and “K” LINE involving a newly built vessel. The plan is for this new vessel to be engaged in LNG transportation around the world beginning in the second half of 2026. This vessel will be equipped with an ME-GA engine and achieve the reduction of environmental impact through the reduction of fuel consumption during operation.
“K” LINE points out that in the 40 years since the delivery of the first Japanese LNG carrier, Bishu Maru, in 1983, it has been establishing its expertise in LNG transportation and developing a worldwide network. The signing of the new contracts is testament to its experience supervising vessel construction, its high-quality ship management, and its ability to boast the highest level of safety in its commercially optimized operations.
KR awards AIP to HD Hyundai’s ship cyber resilience technology
Korean Register (KR) has awarded an AIP (Approval in Principle) to HD Hyundai Heavy Industries (HD HHI) and HD Korea Shipbuilding & Offshore Engineering (HD KSOE) for their innovative 'Technical Procedures and Methodology for Implementation of Ship Cyber Resilience (IACS UR E26).' This milestone achievement marks the successful collaboration between KR and HD Hyundai in the development of ship cyber resilience technology.
Ship cyber resilience encompasses measures taken to reduce cyber accidents and mitigate their impact on the operational technology systems essential for the safe navigation of ships. IACS UR E26, introduced in April 2022, establishes unified requirements for cyber resilience in ships and becomes mandatory for vessels contracted for construction from January 2024.
Since September of last year, KR and HD Hyundai have joined forces in a dedicated research and development project aimed at applying and validating the cyber resilience of main systems and related equipment of ships, in anticipation of the adoption of IACS UR E26. HD HHI and HD KSOE have successfully designed a cyber resilience network for the main systems of ships and established a response system, underpinned by technical procedures and methodologies based on a cyber risk management framework. KR has verified the feasibility, safety, and suitability of the cyber resilience concept design, resulting in the granting of AIP.
KIM Daeheon, Executive Vice President of KR’s R&D division said: “This AIP of cyber resilience technology is the first case in KR, and it is very meaningful for us that our collaboration with the world-class HD Hyundai has led to this successful result. KR will further enhance its technologies and certification capability, and support customers to secure higher level cyber resilience of their ships.”
JUNG Jaejun, Senior Vice President and Head of Basic Design Office of HD HHI said: "We are delighted to have obtained the first certification of our concept design of ship cyber resilience from KR. We will work to meet customers’ needs by continuously developing related technologies and providing safer smart ships.”
KWON Byounghun, Executive Vice President and Head of Digital Research Lab of HD KSOE added: “It is crucial for autonomous ships and smart ships to secure cyber security. I believe that HD Hyundai has proven its advanced technology by receiving the design certification based on the IACS unified requirements for the first time in the world as a shipyard.”
This achievement underscores HD Hyundai's position as a global leader in shipbuilding and highlights KR's dedication to fostering innovation in the maritime industry. As the demand for cyber-resilient ships continues to grow, both organizations remain committed to advancing their technologies and expertise to meet the evolving needs of their customers.
RINA exceeds €660 million in revenue, presents strategic plan to 2027
The shareholders' meeting of multinational inspection, certification and engineering consultancy RINA approved the financial statement for the fiscal year ending 31 December 2022, showing net revenues of 664 million euros, up 21% compared to 2021. At the same time, net profits rose to 12.5 million euros, compared to 8.1 million euros in 2021. After accounting for the impact of the share purchase transaction and the acquisition of Patrick Engineering, the normalised Net Financial Position is €114 million.
The company also presented a new strategic plan running to 2027, confirming the key focus areas of energy transition and ESG, and the objective of achieving organic revenues of approximately 1.25 billion euros. The plan is underpinned by growth across all sectors, from Engineering Consultancy to Testing, Inspection & Certification (TIC), with significant growth anticipated not only in Italy but also in the USA, the UK, the Middle East and Asia.
The recent acquisition of Patrick Engineering - the Chicago-based engineering consultancy company - is part of a development plan in North America in the energy, infrastructure, industry and mobility markets.
In the Marine sector, the company reaffirmed the strategic importance of Greece and Asia, while the Certification business unit aims to expand its presence in Europe and consolidate its position in Italy. Furthermore, the company is pursuing its goal of becoming the dominant player in the Italian Real Estate industry and beyond.
RINA will support this development with significant internal growth. By 2027, the organisation plans to employ over 1800 highly skilled technical experts worldwide who will be instrumental in driving the Group's digital transformation. Key roles will include environmental and computer engineers, project managers, and graduates in economics.
2023 is shaping up to be a strong year for RINA, despite the challenges posed by global inflation. The company's key markets continue to perform well, as reflected in the first-quarter results, which met budget expectations. Looking ahead, RINA is well poised to capitalise on a range of timely opportunities, from infrastructure and renewable energy to nuclear, cybersecurity, and even space and defence.
Ugo Salerno (pictured), President and CEO of RINA, stated: "2022 closed with results in line with growth projections, despite external factors such as the conflict in Ukraine and rising energy costs. This confirms the robustness of our businesses and the value of our strategic decisions, including our commitment to energy transition and our move towards increasingly sustainable and digital services and processes. Our aim is to maintain our position as leaders - even in thought - in the industries we operate in, drawing on the multidisciplinary expertise we have acquired through the many projects we have undertaken over the years.
The strategic goals we set two years ago are still coming to fruition: our expansion over the Atlantic will enable us to establish a strong foothold in the USA, as part of our global organic growth strategy that has brought nearly a thousand new colleagues to RINA in the past year. We plan to hire approximately 600 new staff, half of whom will be based in Italy, by the end of 2023. Our success is built on our people, who are the driving force behind our activities and the key to ensuring the company's future prosperity”.
I Exist Too, 2023 – international forum aims to improve LGBTIQ+ rights in maritime industry
A forum organised by a Newcastle University student and to be held in Panama aims to improve the visibility and rights of LGBTIQ+ people in the shipping industry.
I Exist Too, 2023 is believed to be the first forum to focus on improving the working lives of LGBTIQ+ people in the maritime industry. The one-day event is to be held on 25th May at the InterContinental Miramar Panama, Panama City and will examine topics including the importance of equal rights, the role of maritime unions in protecting LGBTIQ+ rights, opportunities to improve the Maritime Labour Convention, and the inclusion of LGBTIQ+ people in the world of work.
It has been organised by Panamanian PhD student Gustavo Abdiel Aguilar-Miranda (pictured), who worked in the sector before joining Newcastle University’s School of Modern Languages to study for a doctorate. During his studies, he found there was no previous research on LGBTIQ+ experiences in the sector.
Gustavo hopes I Exist Too will help to strengthen the access and career development of LGBTIQ+ people within the maritime industry and lead to the establishment of inclusive policies whose emphasis is linked to improving lived experiences, the recognition of human rights, and the promotion of a safer environment for all, especially the LGBITQ+ population.
Tim Stew, the UK ambassador to Panama, will speak at the opening of the forum. The event will bring together speakers from 14 different countries, who will share their knowledge and experiences in six panels and two presentations. Additionally, Panamanian LGBTIQ+ organisations will serve as moderators for these panels, ensuring diverse perspectives are represented and heard. They will be joined by academic experts, members of LGBTIQ+ organisations, union representatives, maritime industry professionals, United Nations agencies, and maritime organisations from around the world.
Gustavo said: “A comprehensive intervention in the maritime sector is essential to protect the rights and well-being of LGBTIQ+ individuals. It's crucial to remember that true inclusion means leaving no one behind. If we fail to do so, we're only fighting for the privilege of a few at the cost of many. I'm optimistic that this project will help promote the humanisation and improvement of the maritime industry culture.
“We must work together to ensure that the needs of the LGBTQ+ population are not overlooked or silenced, and that we continue to make progress towards a more equitable and just society."
I Exist Too will also be livestreamed. You can register .
Panama concludes update of General Merchant Marine Law
The Panama Maritime Authority (AMP) and Panama’s main maritime associations have concluded the meetings for the revision of the General Merchant Marine Law, law 57 of August 6, 2008. The amendments aim at improving the competitiveness of the Panama Ship Registry for remaining at the forefront of the maritime sector.
A total of 188 articles were reviewed, 70 were modified, 10 were eliminated and more than 12 new articles were proposed, and all of them were approved in consensus.
This project, considered to be one of the pillars of the present Administration, contemplates an aggressive and comprehensive international marketing plan, the creation of new departments, reassignment of functions to existing departments or sections and the adoption of new technologies accompanied by the re-engineering and re-orientation of the Registry.
For this Administration, the need to revise the business model and update Law 57 to the standards and requirements of the industry, became urgent. A national dialogue was called for since the Ship Registry is everyone’s responsibility and a source of foreign exchange for Panamanians.
The international competitiveness, the dynamic and constant changing international maritime sector and the Ship Registry’s collateral business, required a country’s strategy based on clear and transparent legislation that contributes to a sustainable growth of the activity.
This process began in 2020 and by 2023, the meetings led to a complete review and updated standard that offers answers to customers and is adjusted to the international market where the Ship Registry can compete equally with other non-state registries that offer innovative options to shipowners.
The revision of the General Merchant Marine law brought several innovations, including:
– Obtaining the Navigation Patent through a straightforward process, without needing a provisional navigation patent. This generates compliance, saves costs and efficiency in the process of obtaining the title deed, and registration of the ship’s mortgage.
– The elimination of the expiry date of the statutory navigation patent and the statutory radio license for international service vessels gives benefits to the client and to Panama a more competitive position in the market. The vessel has a unique registration number, resulting in better control and follow-up in the administrative and documentary part of the vessel.
– The modification of the notification process within the administrative framework of the Directorate General of Merchant Marine, allowing special notifications by e-mail instead of the edicts placed in the Department of Resolutions and Consultations. This change introduces agility and speed in administrative processes.
– The Register of Resident Agents of National Merchant Marine Vessels is created, allowing the identification of measures that will strengthen due diligence and the obligations they must comply with at the international level; it generates better control and administration of the resource.
– The obligation to previously register the title of ownership of the seller of a vessel within the change of ownership procedure, is created. This ensures greater transparency and security in transactions.
– Legal security for mortgage creditors of vessels registered in Panama is reinforced: From now on, the cancellation of a vessel will not affect the validity of mortgages previously registered in the General Directorate of Public Registry of Ship Ownership of the Panama Maritime Authority (AMP).
– A new Incentive Regime is proposed which should promote the growth of the Panamanian fleet.
The working group was made up of various members of the maritime sector, associations and public entities such as the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MIRE), the Public Registry of Panama (RPP), the National Air and Naval Service (SENAN), the Aquatic Resources Authority (ARAP), Panamanian Association of Maritime Law (APADEMAR), the National Bar Association (CNA), the National Association of Seafarers (CONAGEMAR), the Panamanian Association of Marine Officers (APOM), the Association of Panamanian Shipowners (ARPA), the Recognized Organizations (IARO), the Panama Chamber of Shipping (CMP). For the order and transparency of this project, the Inter-American School for Social Dialogue and Tripartism of the University of Panama (EI-DiSTReC) provided support.
Madeira Maritime Week highlights Madeira and Portugal’s pivotal roles in European and global shipping
The inaugural Madeira Maritime Week opened yesterday in Funchal with a spectacular reception hosted by EUROMAR and the European International Shipowners Association of Portugal (EISAP). The reception featured welcome speeches by H.E. José Maria Costa, Secretary of State for the Sea, Portugal, and H.E. Pedro Calado, the Mayor of Funchal.
Madeira Maritime Week comprises high level debate, presentations and networking designed to emphasise the increasing importance of the International Shipping Register of Madeira (RIN-MAR) in establishing a bridge between European and international shipping, as well as focusing on the key environmental, commercial, regulatory and welfare issues impacting on shipping in the twenty-first century.
At a two-day flagship conference on 16-17 May, over 200 participants, including key shipowners and top decision makers in European shipping, will have the opportunity to attend specially curated sessions. These will consider how European shipping hubs, particularly Madeira and Portugal, can work to support and increase the industry’s competitiveness and diversity whilst at the same time keeping regulatory, safety, training, and ocean protection imperatives at the forefront of the discussion.
The conference sessions will include contributions from political leaders and senior level executives of national and international companies and organisations, including Maja Kostelac, Executive Director of the European Maritime Safety Agency (EMSA); Dr Gaby Bornheim, President of the German Shipowners Association; Assunção Cristas, university professor and former Minister of the Sea of Portugal; Ana Paula Vitorino, President of the Mobility and Transport Authority and also former Minister of the Sea, Portugal; Marisa Lameiras da Silva, Director General, DGPM (Portuguese Directorate-General for Maritime Policy); González Álvarez, DG CLIMA/ European Commission; Prabhat Jha, Group Managing Director and CEO, MSC Shipmanagement Limited; and Maren Schroeder, Managing Director, Stolt Tankers.
On 17 May, a stunning dinner will be hosted by H.E. Miguel Albuquerque, President of the Regional Government of Madeira, in the garden of Quinta Vigia, the President’s official residence.
Madeira Maritime Week will also feature a trade fair focussing on the contributions of regional, national and global companies and institutions to the maritime economy, alongside the WISTA Atlantic Forum, organised by WISTA Portugal, with the support of WISTA MED, which will discuss the priorities of equality in training and education for seafarers.
To bring the week to a close, a Maritime Training and Education Forum will be held on 18 and 19 May which is organised by WISTA Portugal, Maritimos Manning Portugal (MMP), and the Regional Secretary of Education.
Madeira Maritime Week is sponsored by the Presidency of the Regional Government of Madeira and supported by Sociedad de Desenvolvimento da Madeira (SDM) and EUROMAR.
The event is organised by EISAP, in partnership with Petrospot, a UK-based conference, training and publishing company which runs maritime events such as Portugal Shipping Week, Maritime Week Americas, the Middle East Bunkering Convention, Maritime Week Africa and the ship. energy summit and which is also a co-organiser of London International Shipping Week, and the Portuguese representation of the Women’s International Shipping & Trading Association (WISTA Portugal).
For more information on Madeira Maritime Week visit the website.
Asian seafarer hubs step up to meet decarbonisation challenge
The steady progress by key seafarer home nations in Asia, such as the Philippines and Indonesia, to equip their maritime workers with the skill sets needed to deliver a low and zero-carbon maritime sector, is being showcased at the ‘Seizing opportunities for green shipping in Asia and the Pacific’ conference organized by the Philippines' Maritime Industry Authority (MARINA).
The two-day conference, which begins today, aims to explore the challenges and opportunities of shipping’s decarbonisation, including skills development for seafarers and a Maritime Just Transition.
Timely action by governments and maritime authorities to enhance training and skills will position their seafaring nationals to embrace the high-quality job opportunities created by shipping’s green transition. A recent study by DNV has estimated that 800,000 seafarers will require additional training by the mid-2030s to handle the fuels, technologies and ships of the future.
Philippine Transmarine Carriers (PTC) CEO and International Chamber of Shipping (ICS) board member, Gerardo A. Borromeo (pictured) says: “Shipping’s ability to decarbonise is highly dependent on having well qualified and highly skilled maritime professionals who can operate these vessels in a safe and efficient manner.
“There is no doubt that the skill set for a career at sea is evolving. That is why we need to ensure that we provide the right kind of education and training so future generations of seafarers are able, skilled and ready to handle the new technologies and fuels on board that will increasingly be used in the years ahead. Countries with a strong maritime workforce must keep pace with the changing requirements of our industry as we transition to a low and zero carbon future which will benefit everyone.”
The MARINA conference provides a platform to share regional perspectives, emission reduction priorities and promote green shipping in Southeast Asia and the Pacific. The event is organized in collaboration with the Danish Maritime Authority, and the IMO.
With 252,392 of the world’s seafarers - 13.3% of global crew members - calling the Philippines home, the country’s ability to shift its training systems towards low and zero-carbon will impact the maritime sector’s progress on climate targets. The country has already taken steps to prepare with President Marcos launching the tripartite International Advisory Committee on Global Maritime Affairs (IACGMA) in January 2023. In addition to advising on how best to ensure the global competitiveness of Filipino seafarers, the committee is a key forum for the country to prepare future seafarers for a Maritime Just Transition.
Sonia B Malaluan, Deputy Administrator for Planning at MARINA said: “Filipino seafarers have a long history of powering seaborne trade and we hope to continue this tradition as we move towards decarbonised horizons. While this transition is certainly a challenge for the maritime sector as a whole, there are definitely opportunities to be seized by early movers, and we hope that our efforts will bear fruit for our seafarers and grant them access to high-quality jobs and long careers.”
Indonesia is also making inroads to upskill its maritime workforce in line with the emerging needs of the sector through its ‘Skills for Prosperity programme in Indonesia’, delivered by the International Labour Organization (ILO). The country, which is home to about 7.6% (143,702) of the world’s seafarers, is modernizing its training regime through international partnerships that share knowledge as well as best practice. The United Kingdom-funded programme includes the establishment of an industry advisory board for each of the four Indonesian polytechnics involved. This structure aims to promote closer collaboration between education and industry, and provide clear progression for graduates into skilled employment.
Mary Kent, Chief Technical Advisor, ILO, said: “The partnerships from the Skills for Partnerships programme are creating decent employment opportunities in the maritime sector, which will result in wider socio-economic benefits across the region. We look forward to sharing the lessons learned from this programme so that other regions can make informed decisions about the best ways in which to prepare their future maritime workforces.”
Maritime operations of the future are likely to be significantly more complex with new fuels and technologies being used in an increasingly digital and automated work environment - a fact that is likely to influence the upcoming review of the Standards of Training, Certification and Watchkeeping for Seafarers (STCW) convention and code.
Fabrizio Barcellona, the Seafarers and Inland Navigation Section Coordinator at the International Transport Workers’ Federation (ITF), warns: “Although the actions by the Filipino and Indonesian authorities are admirable, there is still much to be done if we are to appropriately empower a global seafaring workforce of the future. Improving the training environment is a very necessary first step - particularly given the concerns about STCW compliance and competency.
“This must be followed by upgrading to a new, modern and coordinated model for apprenticeships and cadet training with quality, enduring schemes backed by shipowners, unions and government. Collaboration between these sets of stakeholders is essential to deliver a Maritime Just Transition and safeguard their long-term standing as global leaders in seafaring.”
A new effort to produce a seafarer training framework for decarbonisation with relevant training materials for seafarers and maritime education and training providers is expected to be launched in July 2023 under Phase 2 of the Maritime Just Transition Taskforce.
Arsenio Dominguez, IMO's Director of the Marine Environment Division, says: “Combating climate change requires action across the maritime sphere, both in offices on shore and on vessels at sea. We know that seafarers are eager to do their part to green shipping’s operations and this framework, alongside some of the free online courses developed by the IMO, can help to boost crew knowledge of how their daily operations impact the environment.”
Major passenger ship operator onboards the future of safety with VIKING LifeCraft
Announced as a gamechanger in ship evacuation, the VIKING LifeCraft system is now bound for installation on its first series of new build vessels. The system will serve as the main evacuation solution on board the new diesel hybrid-electric Interislander ferry fleet operated by KiwiRail to connect the two main islands of New Zealand.
For more than 60 years, KiwiRail ferries have provided a connection for 800,000 annual passengers between New Zealand’s North and South Island. To futureproof the country’s main link across the Cook Strait, KiwiRail is replacing the fleet with two new purpose-built ships, currently in the advanced design phase at the Hyundai Mipo Dockyard in South Korea.
To that end, the LifeCraft advanced evacuation system from the renowned global manufacturer VIKING Life-Saving Equipment has been chosen as the new primary safety system onboard. The LifeCraft™ system comprises four 203 person self-propelled survival craft bringing together the advantages of premium lifeboat, liferaft and evacuation system technology in a revolutionary hybrid solution.
“When deciding to renew a fleet trusted to serve millions of people, the replacement vessels must exceed traveller expectations and be of the highest standard in terms of quality, technology, efficiency, and safety,” says Massimo Soprano, Ships Programme Director, iReX, KiwiRail.
“This is also the case for the onboard evacuation systems, which is an area where compromise is never an option. Here, LifeCraft and the innovation and extensive testing backing the system has proved to be an excellent survival craft solution. Beyond potentially providing an increase in safety, the system also saves large amounts of space, weight and time-consuming procedures.”
One of the areas where the VIKING LifeCraft system is breaking new ground in general is the digitalisation of the entire pre-departure safety-check. Instead of taking up the crew’s time and relying on manual processes such as testing combustible fuel engines, the captain or safety officer has the readiness status of the system available at the touch of a button directly from the vessel’s bridge, within just a few moments.
Efficiently outperforming every safety standard in its field, the LifeCraft is also a compact system. All system elements – from the EscapeWay 4-chute system to the four 203-person capacity inflatable craft, are stored together in the same unit which can be either placed on deck or built into the side of the vessel.
“Be it a ferry or a cruise-ship, the integration of safety systems is paramount in the ship-design process, which means that it at times will be a priority at the expense of aesthetics or comfort,” says Anders Ørgård, CEO at the maritime design company OSK-ShipTech assisting in the construction of the new Interislander ferries. “This system makes this trade-off irrelevant by offering a solution that – apart from being a state-of-the art safety system – also is both practical, light, and visually appealing,”
Should it be brought into action, the LifeCraft system is able to evacuate over 800 people within only 30 minutes. After evacuation, each of the systems four craft will take advantage of their all-electric propulsion setup to move into and maintain a safe position while waiting for help to arrive.
The first new Interislander ferry is expected to assume full scale operation across the Cook Strait in late 2025, with the second ship to follow in 2026.
ESM celebrates its 25th Anniversary with international partners and employees
With the thunderous beating of Japanese drums, Executive Ship Management Pte Ltd (ESM) ushered in the guests to its grand 25th anniversary celebrations earlier this month at the historical Fullerton Hotel in Singapore.
From a single ship manager in 1998, ESM has grown as a major player in the industry providing a range of maritime services as the Executive Group of companies. As part of backward integration of its ship management services, ESM added maritime training, ship repairs and supplies, maritime software development, and chartering services—all geared towards providing a unique value chain proposition to those ship owners looking for a comprehensive package of services with extra benefits of economies of scale.
Industry leaders conveyed warm congratulatory messages to Executive Ship Management, paying tribute to the company as one of the best ship management company in the world during its silver jubilee celebrations.
Mr. Yukito Higaki, President of Imabari Shipbuilding Co., Ltd, in a video message stated: “Needless to say, Executive Group is one of the best ship managing company in the world. We, Shoei Kisen, have enjoyed close relationship with Executive Group since the company was set up in 1998 and even now, we’re taking joint crewing company since 2016.” The relationship between ESM and Shoei Kisen Kaisha Ltd started in 2000 and has been growing stronger since then.
Mr. Kondo Masato, President of Nisshin Kisen Co Ltd, congratulated ESM on its 25th Anniversary: “Executive has made big growth for these 25 years. I believe you will go forward more and succeed in more excellent progress.”
Mr. Shingo Matsumoto, Managing Director of Fuji Iron Works Co., Ltd, attested to ESM’s quality of service: “I have been very satisfied with the company’s high awareness of best maintenance, safe navigation, and the friendliness of the people I have worked with.”
Earlier, in an exclusive premier of the ESM corporate video, Mr. Mitsuhisa Matsumoto, owner and Managing Director of Marex Maritime who provided ESM its first chemical tanker for management in 1998, said: “Unlike others, ESM trains its own crew in SIMS which I have seen at Mumbai and Lonavala and I am very happy at the quality of their crew. They have a strong technical and operations team at shore who manage the ships efficiently and cost effectively.”
Ms. Sikha Singh, Deputy CEO and Co-Founder said: “We value our employees, we value our business partners, we value the rule and law of the land, we value friends and well-wishers who assisted us to be wherever we are today.”
Keeping in line with that spirit, stakeholders and business partners from across the industry with long years of business relationship with ESM were presented with an ESM plaque designed for the occasion.
Mr. B.S. Teeka, CEO and Founder succinctly put the way ahead for the company and said: “The maritime industry is now standing at the cusp of change in technology to keep pace with the environment and the need for the future of humanity on earth. The next 10 years will be critical.
“We are prepared to join in our hands in that effort - with like-minded entities. I consider, you all who are present here now are the like-minded people. We will bank upon you all to charter the future of ESM and the maritime industry as a whole with our joint contributions and collaborations.”
The event attended by around 200 guests and employees from across the world included a specially curated cultural programme comprising of Singapore’s first pop-rock string quartet, a melodious Chinese zither and flute performance, as well as an oriental fan dance and Indian classical dance fusion which kept the audience entertained and enthralled the entire evening.
A profile of ESM founders Mr. B.S. Teeka and Ms. Sikha Singh is featured in the latest March/April issue of SMI magazine available on this website.
Maritime Consortium successfully completes ammonia co-firing test with ammonia-fuelled engine
A consortium of NYK Line, IHI Power Systems, Nihon Shipyard, Japan Engine Corporation and Nippon Kaiji Kyokai (ClassNK) is pleased to announce that the world's first four-stroke ammonia-fuelled engine has successfully completed a land-based test for the stable combustion of fuel ammonia having an 80% co-firing ratio as part of a demonstration project for the commercialization of vessels equipped with a domestically produced ammonia-fuelled engine.
This initiative concerns the development of vessels equipped with a domestically produced ammonia-fuelled engine. It was initiated in October 2021 by NYK, Japan Engine Corporation, IHI Power Systems, and Nihon Shipyard as part of the Green Innovation Fund Project of the New Energy and Industrial Technology Development Organization (NEDO).
In April 2023, IHI Power Systems commenced operational tests at its Ota plant (Gunma Prefecture) on a 280 mm bore four-stroke ammonia-fuelled marine engine for the main engine of coastal vessels - such as the proposed A-Tug tugboat design.
Ammonia does not emit CO2 during combustion and is therefore expected to be a next-generation fuel that contributes to combating global warming, but it is a difficult substance to handle due to its toxicity. This time, while thoroughly ensuring safety, a test increased the mixing ratio of fuel ammonia within the engine to 80%, and tests were conducted on the exhaust gas aftertreatment devices and fuel supply systems, etc., and the stable integrated operation of these systems was successfully achieved for the first time.
The tests also confirmed that emissions of dinitrogen monoxide (N2O), which has a greenhouse effect about 300 times greater than carbon dioxide (CO2), and unburnt ammonia were virtually zero, and there was no ammonia leakage from all demonstration equipment during operation and after shutdown.
Perenco Brazil announces hook-up of FSO Pargo
Perenco Brazil is pleased to announce that hook-up of the Floating Storage and Offloading (FSO) vessel FSO Pargo has now been safely and successfully completed on the Pargo Cluster in the Campos Basin, offshore Brazil. Perenco Brazil will now submit final documents to the regulatory authorities in Brazil, with a view to being granted its Operations Licence for the FSO.
The hook-up included the connection of nine mooring lines and of the new production line from the Pargo platform, all connected to the new turret which was integrated in Dubai as a key part of the FSO conversion. This is another important step in Perenco Brazil’s ongoing $400m Pargo Development Plan and paves the way for continued production growth.
Hook-up confirmation follows the arrival of the vessel in Brazil in March, after its full FSO conversion to Brazilian regulatory standards in Dubai, as well as the concurrent installation of the FSO mooring system which was completed at the end of 2022. FSO Pargo is a double-hull vessel built in 2004 which has a 750,000 barrels storage capacity.
Commenting on today’s announcement Yves Postec, General Manager, Perenco Brazil, said: “The hook-up of FSO Pargo is another landmark moment in the ongoing development of the Pargo Cluster. It follows the safe arrival of the vessel in Brazilian waters after its complete conversion to regulatory FSO specification.
“The Pargo Development Plan is a major project and we are proud to be partnering with Brazil to bring our technical expertise and innovative approach to maximise the life of this key acreage. We look forward to providing further updates on our progress over the coming weeks, including on our ongoing uplift in production.”
Perenco Brazil holds a 100% stake in the Pargo Cluster Concession, which comprises the Pargo, Carapeba and Vermelho fields located offshore in the shallow waters of the Campos Basin, off Rio de Janeiro’s coast. The concession area holds eight fixed platforms in up to 100 metres depth. Production reached 13,000 barrels of oil per day in 2023, up from 2,800 barrels when Perenco took over operations in October 2019.
The Pargo Cluster Development Plan was formally approved by the Brazilian authorities in early 2021, along with extension of Perenco’s rights on the concessions until 2040. Perenco Brazil is a subsidiary of the Perenco Group, an independent hydrocarbon producer involved in the entire lifecycle of projects, from exploration to decommissioning.
West makes strong progress with combined ratio of 96.7%
West P&I has achieved a 96.7% combined ratio in the 2022-23 financial year amid challenging global economic circumstances, representing the strongest result for the Club since 2017.
West also reports an underwriting surplus of US$8 million and gross earned premiums of $293.2 million for 2022-23. Its latest combined ratio has improved materially from the previous financial year.
The Club attributes its improved operating performance to a successful renewal in February 2022, which saw rating levels increase and also a drop in Covid-related claims meaning that its Members’ own claims were better than forecast. The lower cost of International Group Pool claims during 2022 was also a significant contributor to West’s strong performance, as well as the Club’s own record on the Pool improving considerably too.
“West began 2022 in a much stronger position than recent years following a successful renewal, which saw the Club’s rating levels increase and its risk profile improve,” said Tom Bowsher (pictured), Group CEO of West P&I.
Mr Bowsher added that the decline in Covid-related claims bolstered Members’ own claims performance in 2022, despite inflationary pressures throughout the year. Members’ back-year claims developed more favourably than expected.
Elsewhere, the IG was notified of just five claims, none of which came from West. “This has a positive impact on our Pool share and the incurred cost of Pool claims to West was much lower than in recent years,” Mr Bowsher said.
Inflation and interest rate rises hit investment markets in the 2022-23 financial year, contributing to West’s losses for fixed income investments and affecting its equity holdings. The Club’s alternative asset portfolios generated a positive income, however, resulting in its overall investment portfolio producing a -3.6% return.
The Club’s Free Reserve reduced to $230.8 million but its overall capital position improved with the solvency coverage increasing to 176%.
Political instability is putting successful green energy transition in jeopardy, says ICS report
The International Chamber of Shipping (ICS) Maritime Barometer Report 2022-2023 - published this week - reveals that uncertainty over fuel availability and infrastructure puts at risk ambitions to meet decarbonisation targets, reinforcing the need for a clear plan of action to mitigate risk.
The inaugural ICS Maritime Barometer Report is the first full-scale annual survey of risk and confidence among maritime leaders. More than 130 C-suite decision makers, half of them shipowners and approximately 35% consisting of ship managers, have provided insight into the issues preoccupying them and how they are placed to manage their impact.
Respondents’ views on decarbonisation factors highlight a maturing of the shipping industry’s understanding of the complex implications of the energy transition. While the practical implications of new greenhouse gas reduction regulations have continued to be the biggest concern for two years in a row, respondents demonstrated evolving opinions on the fuel landscape. This includes a shift in attitudes towards wind and nuclear power as potential, viable energy sources.
The report also highlighted that delays in government decision-making will have far reaching consequences for the shipping industry. Key choices by governments regarding supply chain resilience and greenhouse gas reduction measures will determine how the industry evolves over the next decade.
Emanuele Grimaldi, Chairman of the International Chamber of Shipping, commented: “The need for clear direction from our regulators and political leaders shines through in the data gathered from maritime leaders around the world for this report. Delays in government decision-making will have far reaching consequences for the shipping industry as key choices regarding supply chain resilience, greenhouse gas (GHG) reduction measures, including carbon pricing, alternative fuel availability and the provision of new onshore bunkering infrastructure, will determine how the industry evolves over the next decade.
“Make no mistake, shipping and maritime will be at the heart of many of the changes that the coming decade will bring, which is why it is imperative that we remain active participants in national and international discussions. Although our individual interests may vary, mutual understanding and collective action to leverage capabilities are the keys to a better future not just for our sector, but other sectors – and indeed, the world as a whole.”
Political instability, financial instability and cyber-attacks were also among top risks identified in the ICS Maritime Barometer Report. As financial and political risk has risen, particularly due to the ongoing conflict in Ukraine, so too have concerns about companies’ capabilities in managing these issues.
A key takeaway for this year is that although some risks hold the potential to have a serious impact on operations, maritime leaders have high confidence in the industry’s abilities to manage these situations.
Speaking at the launch of the report in Dubai, Stuart Neil, Director of Strategy and Communications said: “The report shows that there is increased maturity of the industry’s understanding of the implications of the energy transition on maritime. While the practical consequences of new GHG reduction regulations have continued to be the biggest concern for two years in a row, respondents are demonstrated an evolving understanding of the new fuel landscape.
“There is also a growing awareness of environmental commitments and reputation management, which has meant that investor requirements have moved ahead of public leadership which has resulted in a significant concern for respondents.
“The report makes clear that political instability is a risk multiplier, threatening increased economic volatility and reducing growth as longstanding policies, trade arrangements and relationships are eroded. The results can have major consequences for trade and transport.
“The Maritime Barometer provides clear signals for policymakers and industry leaders alike,” concludes Neil. “In turbulent times leaders need to move quickly to navigate change and succeed.”
MCTC underlines its commitment to leading the way in sustainability with Single-Use Plastics webinar
Leading international maritime catering provider MCTC has underlined its commitment to helping to shape a sustainable future for shipping with its latest webinar highlighting the dangers of Single-Use Plastics. (SUPs)
Environmental and Suppliers Officer at MCTC, Charalampos Antoniou (pictured) told the delegates attending the online seminar that more and more companies are starting to phase out Single-Use Plastics, and educating our future generations is key to fighting the most challenging topic of the century.
The webinar, held for MCTC’s suppliers, focused on why SUPs are a problem, global movements and what action can be taken to reduce their usage. It also looked at how the maritime catering industry can be more sustainable.
As per MCTC‘s data, water bottles are the primary source of Single-Use Plastics onboard.
Companies are now starting to look at other methods for water deliveries to vessels, as the industry aims to phase out plastic bottles and use more sustainable packaging or water dispensers onboard, Mr. Antoniou explained.
Talking about whether recycling helps reduce plastic waste, he said: “The straightforward answer is ‘no’. It can only partially mitigate for the wrongs of the past. We do not have the capacity to recycle all the plastic that is being produced. Re-use only delays the problem. Plastic products will eventually be discarded once they reach the end of their lifecycle.”
Mr. Antoniou described alternative packaging that could be used by shipchandling companies to help reduce the use of SUPs, including fully biodegradable pallet wrapping films, sawdust and carboard pallets, and heavy-duty crane bags.
“Global movements have meant there is a demand for banning Single-Use Plastics and to start using more eco-friendly materials in the maritime sector,” he said. “There is a race amongst the scientific community to invent alternative materials to plastic and raw wood. It might take some time but eventually the supply chain will undergo a total reformation.”
MCTC is committed to working with companies who adopt sustainable practices and through education and awareness, it is encouraging customers and suppliers the company works with to do their part in promoting sustainability and helping to reduce the use of SUPs.
Group CEO of MCTC, Christian Ioannou said: “Sustainability and doing what we can to protect the future of our environment are important goals for MCTC. Food products create a lot of waste and packaging onboard ships, so we were delighted to hold this webinar and help spread awareness on the importance of reducing the use of Single-Use Plastics onboard vessels.
“We believe it is important to spread awareness of this issue to our young seafarers joining the industry as that is key to winning the battle and protecting the environment. So, raising awareness and encouraging the companies we work with to offer sustainable packaging is an initiative we are proud to be a part of.”
Seafarers' invisible support - the women keeping satellite communications on course
One of the most significant benefits of recent years for seafarers, whether male or female, has been the increased availability of connectivity. On the occasion of this week’s IMO International Day for Women in Maritime on 18 May, Telenor Satellite would like to recognise those women who work so far in the background that seafarers are unaware of the essential role they play in their lives. The work they do is vital to keeping that connectivity on stream.
While the company’s satellites are termed as being geostationary, stationary is not strictly the correct way to describe them. In fact, albeit slowly, they are continually moving in relation to the earth and that is where our Flight Dynamics Manager, Hanne J K Skonnord, comes in. She is responsible for planning station keeping manoeuvres for the satellites to keep their position in the geostationary arc to remain in constant touch with the antennas on the vessels.
Equally crucial is Lead Spacecraft Engineer Kristina Lärfars, she is one of a team of engineers who deal with any problems that arise with the operation of the satellite, taking the necessary action so that our clients never experience a dropped signal. One key aspect of this is ensuring that the satellite continues to transmit even during solar or lunar eclipses when it relies on battery power rather than its solar arrays.
So, wherever seafarers may be, whether that is fishing in the extreme conditions of the polar regions, supplying offshore oil and gas fields with necessary equipment and personnel, keeping cruise guests safe and entertained, operating renewable energy sources at sea, don’t forget the dedicated women working behind the scenes to make sure you remain connected to what matters most.
International Day for Women in Maritime 2023 theme: ‘Mobilizing networks for gender equality’
The IMO International Day for Women in Maritime is observed on 18 May every year. This year's theme is: ‘Mobilizing networks for gender equality’.
The day celebrates women in the industry and promotes the recruitment, retention and sustained employment of women in the maritime sector. It is intended to raise the profile of women in maritime, strengthen IMO's commitment to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal 5 (gender equality) and support work to address the current gender imbalance in maritime.
A global conference of the IMO Women in Maritime Associations (WIMAs) is taking place at IMO Headquarters on 18 and 19 May 2023.
IMO invites Member States, the maritime industry, and all others in the maritime endeavour to promote and celebrate the International Day for Women in Maritime in an appropriate and meaningful manner.
Learn more about the IMO's Women in Maritime Programme here.
(Photo credit: C.Bierneza/ITF)
Asian Shipowners’ Association 32nd AGM hosted by CSA in Shanghai
Asian Shipowners’ Association (ASA) held its 32nd Annual General Meeting on 16 May 2023 in Shanghai. The meeting was hosted by the China Shipowners’ Association (CSA) and attended by more than 230 representatives from ASA Ordinary/Associate members.
Theme of the meeting was "Asia, Greener / Safer Shipping" and its focus was on many aspects of the challenges and constraints facing shipping including safety at sea, manpower and decarbonisation.
ASA said that unfair treatment of seafarers, which can take many forms and be for many reasons, has a severe impact on seafarers' physical and mental well-being and a damaging effect on the image of the shipping industry and its ability to attract and retain qualified seafarers. Unfair treatment of seafarers often takes place when seafarers are detained on suspicion of committing maritime crimes. In this context ASA called on the Honduran Government to handle the ongoing detainment of Capt. Yu Yihai fairly and expeditiously in accordance with the provisions on fair treatment of seafarers, contained in MLC 2006 and the UN Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS) 1982.
ASA also urged Governments to take action in the face of increasing reports of armed robbery in the Straits of Malacca and Singapore. It suggested the three littoral governments of Indonesia, Malaysia and Singapore should intensify their patrols and enforce stringent measures to combat the scourge.
As regards decarbonisation, Ms. Caroline Yang, Chair of ASA Safe Navigation & Environment Committee (SNEC), reiterated that ASA's longstanding position is to support a consistent and predictable framework for regulating GHG emissions. This ensures that all shipping sectors can comply with uniform standards as they navigate through different jurisdictions, avoiding excessive administrative burdens and confusion within the industry.
ASA also expressed its concern over adverse impacts on the stability of the global supply chain due to drastic increases in the tolls of the Panama and Suez Canals, effective in January 2023, without ensuring enough transparency, urging both canals to ensure safe and smooth transits of vessels as well as stable management, including tolls, through regular dialogues covering such topics as green transits and stable supplies of alternative fuels.
On ship recycling ASA reconfirmed its hope that the Hong Kong Convention (HKC) would enter into force shortly, expressing the hope that Bangladesh would soon sign, and said it would also encourage respective member shipping companies of ASA members to use HKC SoC (Statements of Compliance) yards and those aiming to acquire certification.
At the 32nd ASA AGM, Mr Wellington Koo, Chairman of The Hong Kong Shipowners Association (HKSOA) was appointed as the 33rd ASA Chairman. Mr Haji Awang, Chairman of the Federation of ASEAN Shipowners’ Associations (FASA) was also appointed as the Vice-Chairman of ASA.
The next ASA AGM will be held in Hong Kong in May 2024.
BIMCO applauds Bangladeshi Hong Kong Convention pledge after industry visit
During a visit to Bangladesh by Norwegian authorities, the Norwegian Shipping Association, the European Community Shipowners’ Association, the International Chamber of Shipping and BIMCO, between 8-11 May 2023, the Bangladesh Government confirmed that the country will ratify the Hong Kong Convention, allowing for the Convention to enter into force.
Bangladesh is now expected to ratify the Hong Kong International Convention for the Safe and Environmentally Sound Recycling of Ships, commonly known as the Hong Kong Convention, in the next few weeks.
BIMCO’s Secretary General and CEO, David Loosley visited both Chattogram and Dhaka as part of the industry delegation to discuss the benefits of the Convention entering into force.
“BIMCO is delighted that Bangladesh has confirmed their commitment to ratifying the Convention in the very near future. The need for compliant facilities from the main recycling states such as India, Bangladesh and Pakistan is critical due to the large number of ships expected to be recycled over the next 10 years,” says BIMCO Secretary General and CEO, David Loosley.
Several shipyards in the main recycling states have made significant efforts towards upgrading their facilities. BIMCO has previously called for the Convention to enter into force, and for yards already meeting the standards of the Hong Kong Convention to be added to the EU list of approved yards, as there are currently none outside of the EU on the list. With the Hong Kong Convention entering into force, focus can increasingly turn to these facilities and increase the much-needed global recycling capacity at yards complying with universal standards.
“The potential for adding to the circular economy is too large to be missed. The ship recycling industry provides thousands of jobs, and the steel is re-used, but it must comply with international safety and environmental regulations, and ship owners must choose to recycle at compliant yards only, to ensure that it is done safely. The Hong Kong Convention entering into force is a crucial step in the right direction,” Loosley added.
The Hong Kong Convention was developed over three and a half years in cooperation with the International Labour Organisation (ILO) and the parties to the Basel Convention. It was adopted by 63 countries in 2009 and addresses safety, proper working conditions, environmental issues and how to deal with hazardous materials. Until now, the Convention has not been ratified by enough nations to enter into force. The Bangladeshi ratification will allow for the Convention to enter into force.
UAE Maritime Week underway with opening of Seatrade Maritime Logistics Middle East event
Held under the patronage of the UAE Ministry of Energy and Infrastructure (MOEI), the Seatrade Maritime Logistics Middle East shipping and maritime supply chain event opened yesterday at the Dubai World Trade Centre. Part of UAE Maritime Week, the conference and exhibition witnessed the participation of industry leaders, experts, and policymakers from around the world, who discussed and showcased the most recent advancements and best practices in the industry.
Marking the opening of the event, H.E. Eng. Hassan Mohammed Juma Al Mansouri (pictured), Undersecretary for Infrastructure and Transport Affairs at MOEI, delivered an address on the UAE's vision and strategic plan to advance its maritime and logistics sectors’ growth and development. During his speech, he highlighted the UAE's significant progress in expanding and modernising its ports, increasing cargo volumes, and strengthening its position as a global trade hub.
"Capitalising on the capabilities of our state-of-the-art ports, several of which rank amongst the top 10 globally, we have been able to handle over 25,000 port calls, and more than 19 million TEUs annually, cementing our position as a preferred destination for international trade,” he said.
“Despite achieving these significant numbers, we are dedicated to further development and progress. In this regard, we are constantly pushing our limits through ground-breaking initiatives to foster an environment conducive to growth and expansion, attracting massive foreign investments from global leading maritime organisations looking to establish their headquarters in the country.
“As a result, we will be able to add significantly to the AED 90 billion the sector has been contributing to the national economy and enhance the industry’s role in the country’s success.”
The Ministerial and Government address was followed by a video address by Kitack Lim, Secretary-General of the IMO. During his virtual address, Lim stressed on the importance of cooperation and collaboration to drive the maritime sector towards a brighter future. He also emphasised on the need for decarbonisation, digitalisation, and automation for more efficient global supply chains.
The day continued on a high note with insightful panel discussions, keynote speeches, and interactive sessions focused on the industry's digital transformation, sustainable development, and supply chain resilience. Attendees also had the opportunity to explore the latest products, services, and technologies showcased by the exhibitors at the event.
As the UAE gears up to host the United Nations Climate Change Conference (COP28) in November this year, the country's preparations were a hot topic at the event.
Vassilios Kroustallis, ABS Senior Vice President, Global Business Development said: “As a global maritime centre and leader, UAE’s hosting of COP 28 represents a golden opportunity to demonstrate how our industry is responding to the siren call for a more sustainable model and is bringing together the extensive roll call of stakeholders we need to drive genuine change.
“Of course, we in the marine industries are already operating in the midst of a perfect storm of technology disruption and rapid regulatory change triggered by the twin forces of decarbonisation and digitalisation,” he added. “The last few years have shown how preparing for the unexpected must now be business as usual.”
OTG's new training titles put seafarers at the heart of sustainability and decarbonisation
Ocean Technologies Group (OTG) recognises that seafarers are at the core of shipping’s transition to a more sustainable future and have been instrumental in developing a green curriculum to upskill and reskill the maritime workforce with partners like the Nautical Institute and supporting initiatives like the Maritime Just Transition Task Force.
The latest content releases from OTG build on the comprehensive learning library with titles designed to prepare seafarers and the teams that support them ashore with underpinning knowledge they will need, to make the change to more sustainable shipping. The library is designed to offer seafarers flexibility of learning at a pace and time to suit them.
One of the recent title additions is an e-learning module to provide seafarers with an overall understanding of the term “sustainability” and the part they can play in improving their company’s performance.
Another key element of a more sustainable future is the adoption of alternative decarbonised fuels so OTG has produced “Introduction to new fuel types” to guide learners through the current possibilities for alternative fuels. Although this information is generally available, this title disseminates it in an easily digestible learning format.
As the industry transitions towards using zero-carbon fuels and the use of new technology to optimise ship operations, more titles will be added to address the new risks emerging from changes to alternative forms of propulsion.
The learning library now includes titles on the potential hazards from lithium-ion batteries, how and why they must be closely monitored, and how lithium-ion battery fires can be prevented.
As more electric vehicles are being manufactured and shipped, the need to be aware of why they catch fire and the difficulty in extinguishing them must be addressed. OTG’s “Electric Vehicle Fires on RORO ships” explains why prevention is currently the best course of action.
“OTG has always put seafarers at the heart of everything we do as without them our industry would not exist. Sustainability can’t just be a discussion in the boardroom, we have to ensure that everyone understands why it’s important and how they can work together to deliver more sustainable ship operations.
“Reducing the amount of energy, we use and GHC emissions is obviously a big part of that and decarbonisation is going to be the defining challenge of our lifetimes. It simply can’t happen unless our seafarers are equipped with the knowledge and skills that they need to safely deliver the transition from HFO to alternative fuels and the time is right to start preparing them for the changes to come,” said Raal Harris, Chief Creative Officer.
Oslo Bulk adopts BERG Propulsion upgrade to ensure fleetwide EEXI compliance
Bulkship Management, the Oslo-based ship manager with a specialty in geared vessels, has confirmed a significant contract to implement BERG Propulsion’s straightforward ‘EPL for EEXI’ power limitation solution across 10 ships trading in US Gulf and Caribbean waters.
Submitted to the class for approval, the new Berg Engine Power Limitation solution is of particular benefit to the many ships whose performance requires only moderate adjustment to meet IMO Energy Efficiency for eXisting ships Index (EEXI) needs. In force from January 1, 2023, EEXI means owners must verify that a ship’s attained energy efficiency matches its ‘required EEXI’ by its first subsequent survey.
Rather than using a governor for engine derating or ShaPoLi (shaft power limitation), Berg’s innovative EPL (engine power limiter) is a software-based solution which works with the supplier’s MPC800 control system to limit propeller pitch. Requiring no additional sensors, signals are sent by the BERG EPL to the ship’s controllable pitch propeller (CPP), where brake torque is reduced until the engine power reaches its approved range. The information can be used to verify that attained EEXI matches required EEXI, once entered into the IMO’s data collection system (DCS).
A pilot technical assessment of the 8,036 DWT Bulkship vessel Oslo Bulk 6 indicated that EEXI needs would be satisfied by derating its main engine to comply with the new regulations. Sea trials covering the BERG EPL’s limiting effect on the ship’s BERG MPP950 CPP brought DNV acceptance of the system’s performance as an effective EPL solution. Bulkship has now confirmed orders to install across nine more ships.
“On a CPP installation, it is more natural to limit the engine power output by the accurate governance of the propeller than by limiting the engine rpm setpoint,” said Magnus Thorén, Sales Manager Energy & Efficiency, Berg Propulsion. “We use the main engine signal interface to limit the brake torque created by the propeller. Although it’s for a different purpose, this is based on the well-established practice of using a propeller pitch setpoint for overload protection.”
Using the Berg EPL, crew are at liberty to override the function in cases where full power is needed on a password-protected basis, although exceeding the pre-set limit would result in automatic logging for later reporting purposes, said Thorén.
“Our newly released EPL adds to our growing portfolio of novel automation solutions integrated in our MPC800 control platform,” commented Jonas Nyberg, Managing Director – West, BERG Propulsion. “We are continuously developing new software solutions for our existing MPC800 control system, leveraging the platform already installed in the world fleet. Solutions include fuel optimization systems, hybrid controls and now EPL, among others.”
All 10 of the Oslo Bulk ships concerned feature Berg’s MPC 800 control system solution, which is required as a starting point for the BERG EPL solution. However, Thorén disclosed that the solution’s effectiveness had encouraged one buyer already upgrading its ship control systems to MPC 800 control to specify that BERG EPL for EEXI should also be included.
Marine casualty specialist Martin Hall joins Hill Dickinson
Martin Hall, one of the world's leading practitioners in marine casualty, has joined Hill Dickinson after a career spanning more than 40 years at Clyde & Co. During that period, Martin opened and ran Clyde & Co’s Piraeus office for 16 years before returning to London to take on the role of global head of marine casualty for Clyde & Co.
As a leading specialist in marine casualty investigation, his experience in the sphere of marine salvage, especially Lloyd's Open Form salvage, is unrivalled across the global market. Martin’s standing in the Greek and London markets in particular is widely recognised.
Martin specialises in maritime law and arbitration, relating of all aspects of marine casualties, charterparty and bill of lading disputes, including collision and salvage, pollution liabilities, general average, transhipment and selling of distressed cargoes, wreck removal, P&I and cargo claims as well as insurance issues. He is a CEDR accredited mediator and co-founder of the Eastern Mediterranean Mediation Association (EMMA) and secretary for the Admiralty Solicitors Group.
Piraeus office head Jasel Chauhan said: “Martin’s reputation speaks for itself. His arrival at Hill Dickinson, joining forces with Ian Teare and Helene Peter-Davies and the existing team in Piraeus, cements our position as the leading casualty response law firm for the Greek market and further afield. His experience, knowledge and commitment to the Greek market combines perfectly with our own market-leading shipping team. With the breadth and depth of both teams in Greece and the UK, Martin can now provide even more support to his loyal client base.”
Tony Goldsmith, global head of Marine, welcomed Martin to Hill Dickinson, saying: “Martin is an extremely experienced casualty and salvage practitioner. Our paths have crossed many times during the course of our work over the years, so I’m delighted that he is now joining us at Hill Dickinson. We have known Martin for a long time and we’re very much looking forward to working together now on the same team.”
Martin Hall added: “I am very pleased to be joining Hill Dickinson at a time when the firm’s commitment to shipping and the marine casualty market continues to stand out and grow. Development of the teams in London and Piraeus, in particular, have been a head-turner, and the opportunity to work with longstanding colleagues and friends from the marine market, and to spend more time in Greece, was not something I could turn down.”
Martin’s arrival follows a number of recent appointments to Hill Dickinson’s team in Piraeus. Dimitris Anassis and Mara Zermasli joined earlier this year – from Penningtons Manches Cooper (Piraeus) and Reed Smith (Athens) respectively. Partnership appointments for Vanessa Tzoannos, Anthony Paizes and Alexander Freeman in 2022, have seen the firm’s Piraeus office continue to develop as the market leading, full-service shipping team in Greece.
AI and automated ships pose new challenges in casualty liability, warns Chairman of Association of Average Adjusters
Artificial Intelligence and the advent of automated ships will pose difficult questions in determining liability under the Hague Rules for maritime casualties, the 2022-2023 Chairman of the Association of Average Adjusters has cautioned.
Sir Nigel Teare raised the concern as he suggested that a recent case, in which the Supreme Court confirmed that a defective passage plan will render a vessel unseaworthy, will be scrutinised in the context of technological developments.
Sir Nigel chose for his annual chairman’s address to the association in London the topic of Seaworthiness, Negligent Navigation and Safer Ships, reviewing the implications of the general average case which he tried at Admiralty Court level in 2019, relating to the containership CMA CGM Libra.
The laden vessel left the buoyed fairway and grounded as she was leaving Xiamen, one of the largest ports in China, in May 2011, necessitating a costly salvage operation. Most of the cargo interests accepted that the cause of the casualty was negligent navigation and paid their contribution to general average, but a small minority refused to do so. The shipowner failed in proceedings in the Admiralty Court to recover general average sums from that minority, and its decision was upheld by the Court of Appeal and the Supreme Court.
In his address to the association, Sir Nigel extended the question of passage planning to its potential application to vessels controlled by operators ashore or by computers on board -- ships known as Maritime Autonomous Surface Ships or MASS for short. “They are not yet common,” he said, “but, with commendable foresight, MASS are being closely monitored by the International Maritime Organization.”
The IMO is exploring how far regulatory regimes such as Solas and the Collision Regulations can apply to autonomous ships. Its plan is to have a non-mandatory code for that type of ship by 2024, with a mandatory code in force by January 2028.
There was no reason why MASS should not have a passage plan to be seaworthy for their voyage, said Sir Nigel. “Such plans may in the future be produced by a computer. What if the reason that a passage plan is defective lies in a defect in the software purchased by the owner?”
“Where the master on board or operator ashore acts negligently when commanding the vessel that would amount to negligent navigation. But what if the error is committed by a computer?”
Sir Nigel insisted that the introduction of electronic charts had not eliminated the need for proper passage planning. To be seaworthy a vessel must still at the outset of the voyage have a proper passage plan. That remained essential to safe navigation.
“What will become important will be the training of navigational officers in the art of passage planning when using electronic charts,” added Sir Nigel. The UK Government’s Marine Accident Investigation Branch has urged navigating officers not to rely solely on the data embedded in a computer-based system but to consult all sailing directions and notices to mariners just as they would when passage planning on paper charts. There is evidence that not all navigating officers understand the limitations of electronic charts.
“It is therefore possible that the introduction of electronic charts will give rise to more, not fewer, complaints of poor passage planning,” he concluded. “In circumstances where the decision of the Supreme Court has so clearly resolved the issues of law, the debate in the future is more likely to concern the adequacy of the plan on the electronic chart, the significance of any defects and the adequacy of the training of officers to use electronic charts safely,”
Sir Nigel is now an arbitrator at the 10 Fleet Street practice, having retired from the High Court in 2020.
Spinnaker hosts Maritime People & Culture Conference
UK-based HR and recruitment expert Spinnaker hosted its 15th annual Maritime People & Culture Conference over two days last week at the Grand Connaught Rooms in London (pictured).
The event, chaired by Spinnaker Chairman Phil Parry, featured fascinating talks, presentations and panel discussions covering the key issues facing the maritime industry and how HR and leadership teams can address them.
Parry says: “We are delighted that this year’s event has had a record turnout. Delegates have travelled from as far afield as Hong Kong, Singapore and North America and we are honoured that so many members of the maritime community have joined us. The sessions have been both informative and topical and tap into the key trends and priorities for HR teams in 2023.”
The event welcomed world-renowned international rugby player turned facilitator and performance coach, Rory Underwood MBE DL as a speaker on the topic of High Performing Teams. He also hosted a panel discussion alongside Catherine Logie (Ocean Technologies Group), Tim Browne (Professional Speaker & Performance Coach), Daniel Taylor (Principal Consultant, t-three) and Michael Sandaluk, Chief HR Officer (Anglo-Eastern)
Other topics on the agenda were Artificial Intelligence in HR from Heidi Watson, Partner at Clyde & Co., who related how “Many employers rely on artificial intelligence to help with recruitment, management, and redundancy processes as AI can deliver huge efficiencies,” adding that “a reliance on AI also exposes employers to discrimination and other legal risk.”
Her session aimed to help employers understand the risks associated with using AI and help them outline the steps that they can take to address those risks and mitigate the possibility of legal, reputational, and financial exposure.
Heidi also delivered a session on women’s health in the workplace which looked at the impact on female talent leaving the workplace due to menopause and fertility issues.
American Bureau of Shipping’s VP of Human Resources and Global DE&I Officer, Njsane Courtney delivered a walk through of ABS’s journey to establish a global DE&I (Diversity, Equity and Inclusion) program and shared personal stories that emphasised the need to address not only the cultural impacts of unconscious bias but also examined how our own personal biases impact the decisions we as leaders make every day that have on employees’ everyday lives at work.
The Director of the 4 Day Week Campaign in the UK, Joe Ryle, also attended and spoke at the event and shared the findings from the recent pilot. This was then followed by a case study from Swedish maritime training organisation Seably, which participated in the pilot last year and achieved a successful outcome.
NYK Europe also shared a case study of its recent hybrid working initiative, while Lloyd’s Register delivered a session on the importance of Employer Branding.
A full house for Swedish Club’s first face-to-face Marine Insurance Course in three years
Last week The Swedish Club bid farewell to delegates attending its first face-to-face Marine Insurance Course (MIC) since the pandemic. Nearly 40 participants from 13 countries joined the Club to understand more about marine insurance and to apply that learning to their everyday working lives.
The course was carefully structured to appeal to all levels of professionals, and the Swedish Club team welcomed brokers, claims handlers, DPAs (Designated Person Ashore) and Vice Presidents. China was particularly well represented, and the Club’s five regional offices delivered participants from around the globe.
“We all know empirically that shipping is a global industry, but it is only when we are able to meet our business partners in person that we truly recognise the inclusive nature of our business,” said Tilmann Kauffeld (pictured), Head of Claims, Marine. “The Club has worked hard over the last three years to deliver an online offering, and to continue to provide service to members digitally. Our members have welcomed that support. However, the success of the 2023 MIC demonstrates that there is nothing quite like sharing knowledge and building relationships face-to-face.”
During the first half of the week, top speakers from The Swedish Club introduced the world of marine insurance and explored the various elements in detail. This was followed by in-depth workshop sessions which allowed delegates to explore specific interest topics with other participants, followed by breakout sessions encouraging detailed discussion.
The course benefitted not only participants but also the wider shipping community. Members were able to take part free of charge, whilst non-member fees will be donated to seafarer charities.
With the successful conclusion of the MIC, The Swedish Club reaffirms its dedication to providing exceptional educational opportunities and fostering meaningful connections within the maritime industry.
Maersk announces consolidated ‘Al Maha’ ocean service connecting Middle East and Europe markets
A.P. Moller – Maersk (Maersk) has announced a new ocean shipping service, ‘Al Maha’ (meaning ‘wide’), that will commence rotation between the important ports across the UAE, Saudi Arabia, Oman, Qatar, Egypt, and Morocco in June 2023.
As a result of this implementation, Maersk will discontinue the ME3 and ME4 services and serve all customers on those trade routes with the Al Maha service.
“Over the last few years, reliable and predictable supply chains that cater to the evolving consumer behaviours have emerged as the backbone of global trade,” says Bhavan Vempati, Head of Regional Ocean Management, Maersk Indian Subcontinent, Middle East and Africa. “Having carefully studied our customers’ requirements arising out of the current market dynamics, we have designed the Al Maha service that will help our customers in driving value out of their supply chains.”
The Al Maha service aims to benefit exporters and importers in the region in different ways across different commodities.
Petrochemical exports from Saudi Arabia have traditionally faced challenges either from either a cost or capacity perspective with existing ocean transportation options. The Al Maha service will offer loading flexibility from Saudi Eastern Province, enabling customers to reshuffle between Dammam and Jubail, providing ample capacity to cater for customers’ needs and with more reliable schedules allowing better planning of their supply chains. The Al Maha service will offer further connections to European, Middle Eastern and Far Eastern markets for the petrochemical exporters out of Saudi Arabia.
Oman’s Vision 2040 focuses on economic diversification, including creating a world-class fisheries sector that is ecologically sustainable and a net contributor to the economy of Oman. The Al Maha service, with its enhanced capacity, will be in an excellent position to support the anticipated growth in fish exports out of Duqm. At the same time, it will continue to deliver unmatched reliability to Maersk’s customers.
Likewise, the UAE – West Africa market will also benefit largely from the enhanced capacity of Al Maha service, according to Maersk. With the expectation of higher schedule reliability and predictability from this service, customers will be able to plan their supply chains well in advance and, in return, serve their end-users better.
Bhavan Vempati further added: “We remain committed to our customers and focus on responding to the needs of their end consumers. Our ambition is to play a significant role in the economic growth and development of our customers as well as the economies we operate in.”
The Al Maha service will include seven vessels with a nominal capacity of 8,500 TEUs per week and follow the rotation Port Tangier – Port Said – Jeddah – Salalah – Jebel Ali – Doha – Dammam – Jubail – Jebel Ali – Duqm – Salalah – Jeddah – Port Said – Port Tangiers.
New collaboration to improve leadership at sea
The Nautical Institute is delighted to announce a new collaboration with The Seafarers’ Charity to develop a new range of training courses aimed at improving the leadership and management skills of seafarers and those working ashore.
Increasing reports about bullying, harassment and abuse onboard, and its impact on the work experience and mental health of seafarers, have driven this new collaboration between the two maritime charities – both of whom are interested in improving working life at sea. This new collaboration aims to enhance leadership and management skills, and to promote a shift in cultural expectations about acceptable workplace behaviours onboard. It is anticipated that, over time, this may lead to a reduction in unacceptable behaviour onboard and, consequently, an improvement in the mental health and welfare of seafarers.
A leading voice in the maritime industry, The Nautical Institute has a well-established track record in developing training courses that support mariners in their Continuing Professional Development. They have joined forces with The Seafarers’ Charity, a leading grant funder of maritime welfare services, to support the development of three new training courses for seafarers which will be accredited by the Institute of Leadership and Management. Launching in Summer 2023 the new training courses include:
• Leadership & Management (levels 3 and 5)
• Coaching & Mentoring (levels 3 and 5)
• Welfare Toolkit aimed at enhancing resilience.
Deborah Layde (pictured), Chief Executive of The Seafarers’ Charity, said: “If we want a culture of care to become the norm for people working at sea, then we need to support an enhancement of leadership skills at sea. Training is an important part of this as it helps seafarers to understand what good leadership looks like. This will support a behavioural and cultural shift in expectations of standards of leadership. Ultimately, this will improve the lives of people working at sea as everyone will benefit from more positive interactions and good leadership which challenges unacceptable behaviours.
“In addition, the Welfare Toolkit will provide resilience training – a transferrable skill which is helpful for all seafarers at any level of their career as well as those working onshore to support them.”
The new training courses are the first practical initiative which will be delivered. The collaboration will explore further opportunities to collaborate on other initiatives to support enhanced leadership and prevent toxic behaviours in the workplace which can be damaging to everyone’s mental health and wellbeing.
John Lloyd, CEO of The Nautical Institute, said: “The funding from The Seafarers’ Charity provides us with the opportunity to extend the range of educational opportunities that we already offer. These new courses involve the application of theory to the workplace through reflective practice. They are equally appropriate for those at sea such as navigators, engineers, deck officers, mates or cadets, as they will be for those ashore including superintendents, DPAs or general management.
“Everyone who participates in the courses will develop leadership skills that will be of benefit no matter their rank and their attendance will improve the lives of all working at sea through positive and good management.”
Stream Marine Group celebrates importance of diversity and equality on IMO's International Day for Women in Maritime
Leading safety training provider Stream Marine Group (SMG) will be shining a spotlight on encouraging females into the shipping industry with a special networking lunch to celebrate the IMO’s International Day for Women in Maritime.
SMG, comprising of Stream Marine Training, Stream Marine Technical and Stream Marine Careers, recognises the skills and achievements of its own staff and prides itself on training seafarers in maritime safety, working with alternative fuels, and developing the talent of the future with its cadetship programme. The Cadets side of the business has tripled in the last year, as more companies are placing importance on investing in new talent.
Today (May 18) SMG will be bringing together seafarers from all levels across the maritime industry, all with a common goal of sharing and celebrating the importance of diversity in the industry for a special networking lunch in Glasgow, kindly sponsored by Serco Northlink Ferries.
The guest speaker of the event is Dr Suzie Imber, a planetary scientist, high-altitude mountaineer, and explorer. Dr Imber is very active in getting young women into Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics education, which is also one of SMG’s goals.
Group Operations Director, Katy Womersley said: "Our mission for this event is to communicate the importance of accelerating the changing diversity in the workplace, in line with the IMO's 2023 theme of “Mobilizing networks for gender equality”, thus highlighting the importance of collaboration and networking in achieving gender equality in the maritime sector.
“We are very much looking forward to hearing from our inspirational keynote speaker Dr Imber on her experiences and the importance of introducing young females to STEM subjects.”
Training Manager of Stream Marine Careers (SMC), Kellie McKechnie, has worked at SMC since January 2022 and previously worked at sea for over four-and-a-half years.
“We are delighted to be seeing a lot more females sign up for cadetships. The team here at Stream Marine Careers, which is made up of 75% seafarers, is working hard to ensure this continues by visiting primary schools to tell young children about a career at sea, to get them interested from a young age.”
Maritime UK ‘Come to Work with Me’ campaign launches on International Day for Women in Maritime, supported by QinetiQ
Launched to coincide with the IMO International Women in Maritime Day, Maritime UK is pleased to introduce a new social media campaign aimed at promoting STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics) career opportunities for girls in the maritime industry.
The maritime industry is vital to global trade and plays a significant role in our economy, with an estimated 90% of world trade carried by sea. Within the UK, the sector supports over 1 million jobs, however women remain underrepresented in many parts of the industry, and in particular in STEM based roles.
The social media campaign aims to raise the profile of those working within STEM based careers while extending Maritime UK’s reach to inspire young females into these roles, breaking down perceived barriers and helping to support the creation of a diverse and inclusive future workforce in line with the Maritime 2050 Strategy.
Maritime UK is pleased to have the support of QinetiQ for the first video, created to give an insight into the typical day of an Associate Naval Architect based at the Haslar Site in Gosport (pictured).
The premier of the video and the further call to action for maritime organisations to get involved will take place during the Diversity in Maritime - Women in Maritime Network Meeting, held at The Seafarers’ Charity, London.
Watch the full video here.
Baroness Vere, Maritime Minister, said: “With so many opportunities and incredible experiences there for the taking, more needs to be done to show that the maritime industry is an open and inclusive one for women, as well as men.
“Improving representation of women across the sector is essential to futureproofing the industry and boosting trade, creating jobs and delivering goods.”
Emily Hewitt, Associate Naval Architect, QinetiQ, said: “Having known about Maritime UK and its work within the industry for a while, I was delighted to be asked for my help and involvement in the campaign for International Day for Women in Maritime.
“It is crucial that young women and girls are continually shown that there is a space for them in this industry. Days like this are key to breaking down barriers and historic norms.
“Being able to raise awareness of my work in a fantastic role on a platform such as this one, makes me delighted, and I hope it gives a bit more insight into a career in maritime as well as showing the art of the possible for girls all around the world.”
Janet Fallon, Interim CEO, Maritime UK, said: “I am extremely proud that Maritime UK is launching this campaign aimed at promoting STEM career opportunities for girls in the maritime industry. With the goal of creating a diverse and inclusive future workforce, we are dedicated to breaking down barriers and inspiring young females to pursue exciting roles in STEM.
“The support of QinetiQ in creating the first video featuring an Associate Naval Architect is invaluable. Together, we can make a difference in shaping the future of the maritime industry by continuing to empower and inspire young women to explore the endless possibilities within our industry.”
Auramarine announces purchase of Finnish Measurement Systems business operations
Auramarine Oy and Finnish Measurement Systems Oy (FMS) have entered into a business transaction whereby FMS's business operations will be transferred in their entirety to Auramarine Oy. The transaction supports Auramarine's strategic goal to offer an extended selection of solutions to its current and new customers.
Finnish Measurement Systems has been an active oil analyser manufacturer since 1996. FMS's main product is the "Porla Analyser" fuel quality analysis device, targeted at the oil refineries market for analysing the compatibility of oils. With today’s expanding variety of fuel oils, Auramarine sees the benefits of this product along the fuel supply chain in the maritime industry.
John Bergman, CEO at Auramarine Group, said:“Auramarine’s almost 50 years of knowledge and expertise has enabled us to develop a blueprint for bringing new fuels online from a fuel supply perspective. These analysers are a good fit to our current products and services portfolio. Auramarine looks forward to expanding the product’s customer base to the marine industry and the operators that serve it.”
Dr. Juha Vilhunen, Managing Director of FMS said: “Over the years, we have developed our products and services in close collaboration with our customers and partners in the oil and petrochemical industry. Both myself and our Product Manager, Mr. Jurg Waldvogel, expressed our intention to retire from FMS operations last year and started to look for a suitable buyer.
“We are confident that Auramarine’s approach and plans for the Porla products will provide a good continuation to the work we have accomplished so far.”
The business transfer was started in November 2022. At Auramarine, the business is operated by Lifecycle Services business line.
Pioneering WinGD solutions deliver major benefits for new NYK Line carriers
In a first for Swiss marine power company WinGD, its dual-fuel X-DF2.0 engines power two newly delivered car carriers for Japanese ship owner NYK Line. The vessels feature its cutting-edge emissions reduction technology, energy management and digital optimisation solutions with the engine at the heart of the energy ecosystem.
The vessels feature the most comprehensive installation to date of WinGD’s innovative ecosystem of solutions. The highly advanced WinGD technologies which feature in the sophisticated LNG-hybrid vessels include WinGD’s X-DF2.0 iCER (Intelligent Control by Exhaust Recycling), X-EL Energy Manager and WiDE (WinGD integrated Digital Expert).
The state-of-the art 7,000 Car Equivalent Units (CEU) pure car and truck carriers Jasmine Leader and Wild Rose Leader are the first of a four-strong series of vessels for NYK Line using the same, extensive suite of WinGD solutions.
The LNG-battery hybrid configuration comprises WinGD’s latest 7X62DF-2.1 two-stroke engines coupled with shaft generator, DC-links, batteries and bow thruster drives, with system integration and holistic energy management also provided by WinGD.
The vessels are the first in operation with WinGD’s X-DF2.0 iCER technology which is designed to cool and recirculate part of the exhaust gas through a low-pressure path during operation in gas mode. The iCER technology reduces methane slip by 50% while providing significant efficiency gains.
NYK Line has noted that the new vessels, which also feature an enhanced hull design and other fuel economy features, will be 40% more energy efficient than conventionally fuelled ships in the same NYK Line fleet. That efficiency takes the vessels well beyond current and future CII requirements and past International Maritime Organization’s (IMO) current greenhouse gas emission target for 2030.
The vessels also showcase the first deployment of WinGD’s electrical energy solution, X-EL Energy Management, offering a new battery-hybrid power integration and sustainability service. By integrating two-stroke marine engine control into the electrified vessel power system, X-EL widens the range of vessels that can benefit from electrification as shipping seeks to improve efficiency and reduce emissions.
Based on its in-depth knowledge of main engine performance WinGD has optimised energy flow to run the main engine constantly at its optimal point while avoiding less ideal energy usage. The whole energy system is managed by X-EL Energy Manager.
The car carriers also feature the WiDE engine monitoring and diagnostics, which uses a digital twin of the unique system to compare ideal and actual behaviour based on real-time operation and conditions. Anomalies from expected behaviour are detected, diagnosed and communicated to crew and shoreside teams with advice for troubleshooting and maintenance.
WinGD General Manager, Sustainability Solutions, Stefan Goranov, said: “These vessels highlight our most comprehensive representation to date of our ecosystem of solutions. They represent significant firsts and milestones for WinGD.
“This is the first deployment of X-EL Energy Manager and the first delivery of our X-DF2.0 technology. The vessels demonstrate how efficiency can be achieved through a holistic ecosystem approach to vessel power and propulsion.”
NYK Line Mr. Keita Fukunaga, Deputy Manager/Ship Design Team/Technical Group said: “These LNG-hybrid vessels are among the most sophisticated and efficient car carriers ever built and are central to our fleet renewal plan targeting net-zero emissions by 2050. With WinGD’s engine, energy management and digital monitoring systems onboard, they mark an important step towards delivering decarbonised vehicle transport for our customers.”
The vessels were delivered from Jinling Shipyard in China, where the remaining sister vessels will also be built.
Marlink adds next generation Endpoint Security solution to CyberGuard portfolio
Smart network solutions company Marlink has unveiled the latest upgrade to its suite of cyber security tools, adding next generation Endpoint Security to the CyberGuard portfolio. CyberGuard EDR (Endpoint Detection & Response) has been developed based on latest cyber security technology to create the most advanced solution of its type available to the maritime industry.
The new solution is optimised for the satellite communications environment, in particular by operating in a Master/Client architecture, which permits the regular, automated distribution of signature updates locally to all connected clients – even when they do not have an internet connection.
CyberGuard EDR provides a vital function in the cyber security framework by detecting and neutralising malware on operationally-critical computers onboard. The solution is built on signature and behaviour-based malware detection powered by AI algorithms. Suspicious devices may be put in quarantine in order to safeguard other computers in the local network, thereby limiting the potential consequences of a cyber incident. CyberGuard EDR will succeed Marlink’s SkyFile Anti Virus solution, which will be retired on 1 July 2023, after almost 15 years of reliable service.
Vessel operators can use CyberGuard EDR to implement an IT policy for all business devices onboard the ship, providing a vital component of onboard cyber hygiene. To secure onboard computers when external content is shared through removable drives, the solution’s USB device management module can be configured to force a scan upon connection or restrict USB device usage.
Marlink’s CyberGuard portfolio includes advanced threat detection, endpoint and network security and can extend to managed and customised services, to suit specific operational needs. Benefitting from the integration across CyberGuard solutions, users will be able to view alerts detected by the EDR in the CyberGuard Portal and benefit from the advice of Marlink’s Maritime Security Operations Centre (SOC). Its highly skilled team of cyber security experts works 24/7 with clients to provide straightforward, cost-effective and tailored solutions that can be managed by Marlink or the client.
“This latest addition of Marlink’s CyberGuard portfolio is a vital tool to help vessel operators secure the shipboard element of their networks, protecting their systems and their people,” said Nicolas Furgé, President Digital, Marlink. “CyberGuard EDR enables vessel operators to protect their onboard computers from zero-day cyber security threats thanks to a next-generation endpoint security solution which is compatible with any kind of maritime communication channel, including those outside the Marlink Teleports such as 5G and new LEO services.”
PSA BDP expands global network in Gdańsk, Poland with new office opening
PSA BDP, a leading provider of globally integrated and port-centric supply chain, transportation, and logistics solutions, has announced the opening of its first office in Poland. PSA BDP Poland is located in Gdańsk, a port city on the Baltic coast, and will be led by Country Manager, Ms. Agnieszka Moździerz. With this latest addition, PSA BDP now has over 135 offices around the globe.
Poland serves as a gateway to Central and Eastern Europe, thus the Gdańsk office is strategically positioned to connect key central European transportation hubs. By leveraging the extensive transportation infrastructure in Gdańsk, PSA BDP will significantly improve logistics flow for customers within the chemical, retail & consumer, life sciences & pharmaceuticals, and electric vehicle & industrial sectors by offering the following services:
• Ocean freight forwarding (Full Container Load and Less Than Container Load)
• Customs brokerage
• Pre- & On-carriage services
• Warehousing
• Distribution
Gdańsk on the whole is expected to develop rapidly into a strategic logistics epicenter due to its close proximity to Baltic Hub, a member of the PSA Group. Notably, the Port of Gdańsk is the only Baltic port that supports direct container connections with China. It also serves as a marine gateway connecting Asia to Central and Eastern European markets.
Additionally, Baltic Hub houses one of the largest rail facilities in Europe and is the closest port serving the Czech Republic and Slovakia. Capitalizing on the proximity to this strategic hub allows PSA BDP to offer greater connectivity and more cost-competitive and eco-friendly solutions to customers looking to minimize their carbon footprint.
“The new Gdańsk office attests to our growth aspirations in Europe, expanding PSA BDP's regional footprint and strengthening our market position,” said Yves Letange, Managing Director – Europe, PSA BDP. “The team is eager to deliver a wide range of services and solutions to our diverse customer base in this rapidly growing city, driving continued growth for the organization.”
ABS uses simulation and modelling to tackle ammonia’s safety challenge
In a pioneering safety development, ABS is using advanced modelling and simulation technologies to develop emergency response methods to assist ports and crew in responding to ammonia leaks or spills.
It is the first step towards a comprehensive and fast ammonia release response system, capable of predicting the behaviour of an ammonia plume and directing emergency mitigation services accordingly.
Thanks to its potential for zero-carbon emissions, ammonia is widely viewed as a promising fuel solution for a more sustainable industry but its high toxicity presents significant operational challenges on board and ashore.
“ABS has always been a safety pioneer, so we are well placed to tackle the significant operational risks presented by this critical piece of the net-zero jigsaw puzzle,” said Christopher J. Wiernicki, ABS Chairman, President and CEO. “Our advanced simulation and modelling approach is already shining a light on the unique behaviours of this fuel in a range of scenarios. This will inform the strategies of ports, crews and emergency services and enable immediate and informed response to an ammonia release.
“This is the sweet spot for ABS, the nexus of advanced technology, regulation and safety and we are on course to deliver a significant safety development for the industry.”
An industry leader in modelling and simulation, ABS combined those techniques with Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) to create a high-fidelity model designed to replicate ammonia dispersion patterns in the engine room. Using this new model, ABS specialists studied the impact of various ventilation approaches on the behaviour of ammonia plumes resulting from leakages from the fuel lines, revealing optimum methods to vent the ammonia plume.
Leveraging this approach, a dynamic model will be able to swiftly predict the response of an ammonia plume to a range of parameters such as wind speed and direction, humidity, cubic metres per second and relationship of the vessel to port. In addition to dispersion analysis, agent-based discrete event simulations to study the response of crew, port authorities, and emergency services after dispersion will be conducted.
CMA D. ARGOUDELIS opens new branch in Singapore
CMA D. ARGOUDELIS & CO S.A. is pleased to announce the opening of its new subsidiary, CMA Singapore. Strategically located within the largest seaport in Southest Asia, the new facility offers customers additional storage opportunities, and access to one of the premier transport hubs in Asia.
CMA Group is one of the largest Automation groups in Greece and Cyprus. The group consists of CMA D. ARGOUDELIS & CO S.A. in Greece and the sister company D. ARGOUDELIS & CO LTD, based in Nicosia, Cyprus. The parent company was established in 1987.
The company says that the opening of the new subsidiary in Singapore stands as an embodiment of its striving for ever-improving professionalism and quality customer service. The warehouse is equipped with adequate stock in order to provide total immediate solutions to our clients, it adds.
ClassNK releases "Guidelines for Electronic Logbooks"
ClassNK has released "Guidelines for Electronic Logbooks". The guidelines specify basic requirements for approving electronic logbooks used on ships.
The electronic logbooks for decks, machinery, etc. are expected to become more widespread because of the benefits of reducing the workload on crews for recording tasks, improving accuracy, and transitioning to a paperless system. Meanwhile, under the current conventional framework, only logbooks required by MARPOL have their electronic media specifications defined. Unified requirements for electronic logbooks in other areas, such as the deck, have not yet been established. Therefore, the use of electronic logbooks for such purposes requires individual approval from flag state governments.
ClassNK has developed these guidelines to contribute to the expansion of the safe and effective use of electronic logbooks for any purpose on ships. The guidelines specify technical and operational requirements for the approval of electronic logbooks, as well as product testing, drawing on existing IMO guidelines and international standards on the functional requirements of electronic logbooks.
ClassNK will proceed with the approval of products based on these guidelines in order to support shipping companies in selecting electronic logbooks and obtaining the smooth approval from flag state governments.
The guidelines are available to download via “Guidelines” of My Page on ClassNK’s website after registration.
LR, SDARI and MAN join forces on ammonia dual-fuel containership for MSC
Lloyd’s Register (LR), Mediterranean Shipping Company (MSC), Shanghai Merchant Ship Design & Research Institute (SDARI) and MAN Energy Solutions (MAN-ES) have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) for a design for the ammonia dual-fuel operation of an MSC container ship.
Under the MOU, a technical specification and the associated design documents will be developed for a variant of SDARI’s twin island 8,200 TEU container ship design for a vessel contracted to LR class by MSC.
This will allow MSC, one of the world’s leading container carriers, to have the option for adopting ammonia as a zero-carbon main propulsion fuel for future newbuilding contracts.
As part of the project, SDARI will prepare the specification and design documentation of the ammonia dual-fuel variant, whilst LR will verify that the design conforms with safety standards and rules relating to the usage of ammonia as a marine fuel. MAN-ES will deliver data for the engine design and ammonia fuel supply and emission abatement systems.
Increasingly seen as one of the most promising alternative fuels to support the maritime energy transition, ammonia emits no CO2 when it is burned, and its stability and comparatively reasonable energy-to-volume ratio creates opportunities for long-distance transportation.
Nick Brown, CEO, Lloyd’s Register said: “LR is delighted to join this landmark project with MSC, SDARI and MAN Energy Systems for MSC’s new ammonia dual fuel container ship design. The application of ammonia as a marine fuel for the container ship sector will be crucial for our industry to achieve the emission reduction targets set by the IMO and this cross-supply chain collaboration marks a vital step in the maritime industry’s energy transition.”
Giuseppe Gargiulo, Head of Newbuilding, MSC said: “Proactive collaboration between ship operators, ship designers, class and engine makers has never been so important. MSC is pleased to enter in this project to evaluate if Zero Carbon Fuels like Ammonia can be safely adopted and the impact they will have on vessel operation.”
Wang Gangyi, CTO of SDARI, said: "Under this MOU, we will produce the technical solution for an ammonia dual fuel variant of our 8,200 TEU containership design for MSC, a world-leading shipping company. Project like this are vital for helping us evaluate the risks and opportunities of using ammonia for propulsion and for sharing these learnings across the maritime supply chain.”
Bjarne Foldager, Head of 2-stroke, MAN Energy Solutions said: “In order to meet the decarbonisation objectives of our industry on time, we need to look closely at all fuel solutions. Being part of this MoU with MSC, SDARI and LR aligns with our strategic purpose, to provide decarbonization solutions for our trusted partners and it solidifies the industry commitment to reduce emissions.”
EST-Floattech contracted to power new Damen E-Cat for AG Reederei Norden-Frisia
The recently launched Octopus Series battery system will be installed onboard the new Damen Electric Fast Ferry for AG Reederei Norden-Frisia. The German Ferry operator is taking steps towards achieving its vision of a green future by partnering with Damen Shipyards, one of the world’s leading shipbuilders, for the design and construction. The fully electric vessel will transport passengers fast, clean and comfortable thanks to EST-Floattech’s battery system.
The ferry will operate between Norddeich and the island of Norderney, which required Damen to develop a completely new vessel: the Damen Electric Fast Ferry (EFF) 3209 – known as the E-Cat Ferry. A standard vessel was impossible due to the shallow waters in which the ferry must operate. Secondly, the ferry will sail seven times a day, for which the vessel’s draft is limited to a maximum of 1.2 meters. A challenge for which Damen found a solution.
The fleet of Reederei Norden-Frisia will be extended with this 32-meter-long, fully electric catamaran. The E-Cat Ferry can carry up to 150 passengers. With the EST-Floattech High Energy Octopus Series battery system, the ferry can reach speeds of up to 16 knots and can charge within half an hour.
EST-Floattech sized the battery system after calculating performance and lifetime data, based on the specified load profile of this vessel. The electrical installation of the vessel will be provided by system integrator Royal van der Leun, with whom EST-Floattech has had previous successful collaborations. The battery system is Lloyd’s Register type approved and the new ferry will sail under Lloyd’s Register classification.
Jelle Meindertsma, Sales Manager at EST-Floattech, says: “It is satisfying to be part of a challenging and innovative project that contributes to a cleaner environment. In this case, an electric ferry that will be sailing in the Wadden Sea, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, comes with strict design criteria. Our team worked diligently to ensure that the Octopus Series High Energy Battery System met the requirements. The battery system will ensure that the ferry can sail at the needed speed and charge during stops without CO2 emissions, providing a sustainable and eco-friendly transport solution."
"We have already increased sustainability on land and two years ago we decided it was time to take a look at our fleet,” says Michael Garrelts, Norden-Frisia Marine Superintendent. “For our fleet, we believe it is elementary that the battery system corresponds to the latest technology and safety standards, and that we can create a balanced power-to-weight ratio."
Damen Shipyards expressed its delight in partnering with EST-Floattech on this state of the art fully electric ferry: "We are very excited about this project, which is a significant step towards Damen's goal of reducing the environmental footprint of our vessels while maintaining optimal performance with EST-Floattech’s Lithium-Ion cells."
Once the hull has been constructed at Damen’s yard in Kozle, it will be transported to Damen Shipyards Gorinchem for outfitting. The vessel is scheduled for delivery to Norden-Frisia in May 2024.
VARD secures contract for two CSOVs for Purus Wind
Global designer and shipbuilder of specialized vessels VARD is pleased to announce that we have signed a contract for the design and construction of two Commissioning Service Operation Vessels (CSOVs) for UK-based Purus Wind. The agreement also has an option for two additional vessels.
Offshore wind services provider Purus Wind has committed to contribute to the next generation battery hybrid service, operation, and transfer vessels to the sector. The order of the two CSOVs is part of Purus Wind’s continued commitment to meet the needs of the clean energy industry as its members set out to decarbonise.
The two CSOVs are of VARD 4 19 design developed by Vard Design in Ålesund, Norway. Together with Purus Wind the design is upgraded, and tailor made to give environmental benefits with a hull design optimized for low fuel consumption and resistance, as well as high operability and comfort.
The battery hybrid system prepares the vessels to run with zero emission for periods. The vessels are prepared for charging at sea so they can be connected to the power grid in the wind farm/harbour to charge batteries regularly without having to go ashore. The goal is to power operations with a minimum of additional energy sources to secure environmental benefits. The project is awarded funding by the Norwegian Government’s Green Platform Initiative.
The design is also prepared for future operation on methanol, providing an additional sustainable option to the operation.
Tom Nevin, Business Head of Purus Wind, says: "These vessels will support a pathway for our clients to decarbonise their operations and to maintain our position as a leader with the lowest carbon offshore wind support fleet. We are also very excited about the potential of what will be the next generation of a very successful design with the ability convert to methanol with the flexibility of hybrid and zero emission mode."
The CSOVs are a highly versatile platform for all wind support operations, focusing on onboard logistics, comfort, large storage capacities and superior operability.
The vessels will be equipped with VARD daughter SEAONICS’ Electric Controlled Motion Compensated (ECMC) crane, securing efficient handling operations for a sustainable future. This system allows for always keeping the load close to the crane tip from the deck level to the TP platform. The new and innovative crane ensures quick and safe cargo transfer.
The stepless walk-to-work-system is able to work with stepless access in a range from 15 to 30 metres above sea and is suitable for both personnel and cargo transfer.
CEO of VARD, Alberto Maestrini says: "VARD has a high focus on utilizing our innovation power to meet the world’s changing needs. This innovation and development are only possible in close collaboration with our customers and partners seeking sustainable solutions. We highly appreciate the reception our priority on the offshore wind segment has had in the market and will continue to develop our designs and tailor-made specialized vessels in accordance with our goal to enable sustainable business at sea."
The hull of the first vessel will be built in VARD in Romania for outfitting, commissioning, and delivery from one of VARD's yards in Norway. The second vessel will be build at VARD Vung Tau in Vietnam.
The first vessel will be delivered Q2 2025, the second in Q2 2026.
Wind-power pioneer Airseas demonstrates traction flight as Seawing accelerates toward large-scale production
Wind propulsion leader Airseas has confirmed the completion of an important technical milestone in the sea trials of its Seawing, with the successful validation of traction flights on Louis Dreyfus Armateurs’ vessel Ville de Bordeaux. Airseas has now demonstrated that the wind propulsion system is working as planned, providing its first tonnes of traction that will help reduce the ship’s fuel consumption and emissions.
With automated take-off and landing also fully functional, the next phases of the sea trials will focus on testing dynamic flying, which allows the kite to maximise its traction power, as well as gathering performance data and fine-tuning the automated flight system.
The validation of traction flights is the latest achievement in the technology’s ongoing sea trials, which are taking place during the Ville de Bordeaux’s commercial operations between Europe and the United States. These trials aim to test the Seawing system, which was developed with expertise on flight control and automation from the aerospace sector, and validate its performance.
The thorough transatlantic trials are conducted by a team of Airseas engineers on board, with the support of Louis Dreyfus Armateurs, which operates the Ville de Bordeaux, and Airbus, which charters the vessel to transport aircraft components.
The completion of this technical milestone also marks an important step towards the industrialisation of the Seawing, with planning well underway to build a factory in Nantes in 2026. Airseas is scaling up its company to meet demand for the solution, with commitments from major shipping lines such as K Line, with whom Airseas has a 20-year agreement, with options for the Seawing to be installed on up to 51 of its vessels in total.
Vincent Bernatets, CEO and Co-Founder of Airseas, said: “We are immensely proud of the technical achievements that we have accomplished so far in our sea trials, and there is more to come. This latest milestone is a particularly important moment for the teams both on board and ashore, who have been working tirelessly to take this innovative system from concept to reality. Now we are moving forward with the renewed confidence that the Seawing works as planned, and we are excited to progress the trials and improve the kite’s performance in the coming weeks and months.”
Stéphanie Lesage, General Counsel and Corporate Secretary at Airseas, said: “This major progress in wind propulsion for shipping demonstrates technology readiness at a crucial tipping point for maritime decarbonisation. With IMO and the EU both putting owners and charterers under greater pressure to reduce their greenhouse gas emissions, the time to act is now. We are dedicated to helping the industry harness the free and widely available energy of the wind to help reduce the climate impact of shipping, helping them not only comply with regulations, but also do good for society and the planet.”
Hanzevast Shipping contracts Castor Marine for complete renewal of fleet IT communications infrastructure
Bulk carrier operator and investor Hanzevast Shipping BV and Dutch maritime IT and satcom infrastructure provider Castor Marine have completed the renewal of all onboard IT communications systems on Hanzevast’s Hanze Gdansk, Hanze Gendt, Hanze Genua and Hanze Göteborg. All four ships are now fully up to par, with the crew being supported by Castor Marine’s Service Desk.
Hanzevast Shipping operates 4 Handysize bulk carriers, each double-hulled, 35.000 DWT vessels with four 30-ton cranes and a Green Passport. In addition, Hanzevast has chartered the OSV Noordhoek Pathfinder to N-Sea Group. This is a max. 40 persons, 62m support and maintenance vessel for North Sea Offshore Wind installations.
The master of the Hanze Gendt comments: “In a positive way, the system really does make a difference. Consider troubleshooting, for example: we now don’t need an IT person actually having to come onboard to fix problems. That is handled remotely and saves a lot of time. I feel we’re in good hands with Castor Marine.”
Peter Dekker, Director at Hanzevast Shipping and Hanzevast Capital, states: “At Hanzevast we do not just operate any vessels, we take a very close interest in their performance, both from a commercial and financial position and from a sustainable and crew welfare point of view. This means we want our vessels to always be well-maintained. When it became apparent that the existing onboard communications infrastructure was no longer fit for purpose, we quickly decided to seek options and alternatives.
“One of the reasons we chose Castor Marine was that they offer 24/7 remote monitoring and support services, which we feel is crucial. The more so because our vessels operate worldwide. The fact that the software can be monitored and updated remotely was a deciding factor.”
Mark Olthuis, director at Castor Marine, says: “We are very pleased and grateful to welcome Hanzevast as our new client. And it has been an interesting process. For example, it took about 20 minutes from their first call to the moment I sat down in Hanzevast’s HQ in Groningen. We always try to respond fast to new enquiries, but in this case we really made a flying start!
Together we made a plan and I am pleased to say that the project has been successfully completed. We delivered and installed the full network, including servers, access points, switches, firewalls, printers and more. In addition, Hanzevast has subscribed to our support services, which means that the crew can literally call on us at any time in the knowledge we will help them to the best of our abilities.”
Castor Marine serves a global portfolio of mainly shipping, offshore and yachting customers. The company assists its clients with strategic advice on their IT infrastructure and delivers the hardware and software for satellite communications systems and managed IT infrastructure and monitoring. In addition, Castor Marine provides accompanying support services 24/7/365.
Inmarsat to launch I-8 satellites to power L-band network
Inmarsat has announced its new Inmarsat-8 small satellites will launch in 2026 to provide crucial safety services and support advances in emergency tracking – securing the future of Inmarsat’s global L-band safety services.
Switzerland-headquartered SWISSto12 - one of Europe’s fastest growing aerospace providers – will develop its new eighth-generation spacecraft. It will use its HummingSat satellite platform - in conjunction with unique 3D-printing technologies and specialised Radio-Frequency (RF) and payload products - to develop and manufacture the geostationary satellites.
Just 1.5 cubic metres in volume, the I-8’s will use SWISSto12’s innovative new class of spacecraft which has a form factor up to five times smaller than conventional geostationary satellites yet can still deliver critical safety services with certainty.
The three l-8 satellites will continue to provide the extra layer of resilience to complement the existing constellation and Inmarsat’s two I-6 generation satellites, which were launched in December 2021 and February 2023. In March 2023, Inmarsat announced the first, I-6 F1, had successfully completed testing with ground stations in Western Australia and has now started to provide Ka-band services for the fast-growing Asia Pacific region. The company will begin introducing its L-band capacity and transitioning services to the new satellite throughout 2023.
The second, I-6 F2, which launched in February 2023, is expected to enter operational service over Europe, Africa, and much of the Americas in early 2024.
Each I-8 will also extend Inmarsat’s history of launching and operating radionavigation transponders for Governments and international space agencies. These transponders can enable Satellite-Based Augmentation System (SBAS) services around the world, for example for air traffic controllers or coastguards. SBAS systems use satellite connectivity, land-based infrastructure, and software to enhance standard GPS/Galileo accuracy of 5 to 10 metres to as little as just 10cm.
Such precise tracking could enable pinpoint safety navigation on aircraft, help emergency services reach vessels in distress more quickly, or allow a raft of industrial innovations, like device tracking in agriculture or advanced, automated transport management systems.
The I-8 satellites will continue to secure Inmarsat’s global safety services into the 2040’s. The company was founded in 1979 under the auspices of the United Nations specifically to provide highly reliable safety communications. Today some 1.6 million seafarers and over 200 airlines rely on Inmarsat’s global L-band network to deliver 99.9% availability every day.
The Inmarsat-8 programme forms part of Inmarsat’s fully funded technology roadmap, which will include five new satellite payloads added by 2025 to further Inmarsat’s high-speed broadband Global Xpress (GX) network with the launch of the software defined satellites GX 7,8, and 9, aimed for 2025, and the polar coverage satellites GX10a and b, which are aimed for the first half of 2024.
Peter Hadinger, Chief Technology Officer, Inmarsat, said: “Every single day people around the world depend on Inmarsat services. Our customers have demanding, and often safety critical, missions that rely on our satellite technology for links that can make the difference. The I-8’s will not only underpin our existing capabilities for the future; but enable ever more advanced safety innovations like SBAS that can ultimately help save more lives. We have chosen SWISSto12 because they have the ground-breaking technology that can make it a reality.”
Emile de Rijk, CEO, SWISSto12, said: “We are delighted that Inmarsat has selected SWISSto12 as its partner for its landmark l-8 program. It demonstrates that, with HummingSat, we have created a highly advanced new class of small geostationary spacecraft that delivers world-leading connectivity capabilities at a fraction of the cost. Our proprietary 3D-printing of Radio Frequency payload technology allows us to push the limits of existing capability and service new and existing business cases for geostationary satellite communications. This is an important step in our journey to better connect and protect every corner of the world.”
Free money for shipping has ended, but banks remain enchanted
Hamburg-based ship finance platform oceanis predicts a strong six months in its Q2 State of Ship Finance report.
Shipping finance markets for the rest of 2023 look positive, with a depth of lenders, banks, leasing houses and alternative credit funds all seeking to grow their portfolios and offer the best terms to win projects, it says.
Competition between lenders in the improving Tanker markets is especially fierce. While financing volumes available for each individual vessel have plateaued as asset values rose over the past quarter, margins have been under severe downward pressure as banks have started to explore financing cases further from their previous comfort zones.
Meanwhile, opportunities remain in the less liquid Dry Bulk and Container markets.
Erlend Sommerfelt Hauge (pictured), Managing Partner at oceanis, says: “Base interest rates, while currently high, are projected to fall from the second half of 2023. While the ‘free money’ era has ended for now, financing costs can be expected to decrease in the near to medium term as central banks react to the decreasing inflation we are seeing today as well as being spooked by the financial turbulence triggered by higher base rates.”
He adds: “Between these factors, improved earnings compared to the past decade across all sectors and margins being compressed by financiers looking to defend their loan books or even grow, now remains a great time to finance your fleet.”
To read the full report, which includes updates on the Dry Bulk, Tanker, Containership, Offshore, LPG and LNG sectors, go to: https://api-prod.oceanis.io/reports/pdf/Oceanis-Q2-Market-Report.pdf
OSM Thome merger gets green light from authorities in largest ship management merger ever
Competition authorities have now approved the merger of OSM Maritime Group and Thome Group. The merged company, OSM Thome, will be a powerhouse in the international ship management market, represented in 22 countries and headquartered in Arendal, Norway.
Several of the world’s leading shipping companies are customers of OSM Thome, and the fleet includes various segments such as tanker, bulk, container, car carriers and offshore vessels. The company handles ship management for nearly 450 ships and is responsible for crewing on about 550 additional ships.
“This is a big day for OSM Thome. Our merger is now formally and finally approved,” says CEO of OSM Thome, Finn Amund Norbye (pictured). “The merged company combines proud traditions with high ambitions. Our business is based on Norwegian maritime skills and with skilful employees in leading shipping locations across the world, we will strengthen our position as an innovative and world-leading supplier of ship management services. We have built a company for the future, with safe, efficient and sustainable management of ships as our DNA. That will give added value for our customers and for our colleagues.”
“We are respectful about and appreciate the trust shown to us by our customers, which we will do our utmost to maintain through our around-the-clock operations on the seven seas,” continues Norbye.
“We know our customers’ needs and our skilled and dedicated colleagues, both on land and on sea, are crucial for us to be able to provide the best solutions.
“We have the skills and the ability to continue growing. We will do so by offering competitive solutions and taking good care of our existing as well as new customers. We will remain leading within safe and efficient management as well as within important areas such as digitalisation, cybersecurity and green shipping,”
The integration process has been thoroughly planned and now, as the merger finally is approved, the work of joining the two organisations can begin. Through this process, the daily run of the ships and attention to our customers remain the top priority.
The new company will build on the best from OSM Maritime and from Thome continuing strong, skilled professional environments. The starting point of this merger has been unique as the two companies already had so much in common such as Norwegian ownership, business philosophy, values and view of the future.
The integration process will be done in a fast and proper manner and in good dialogue with employees at the various offices. ‘It’s all about people’ has been OSM’s mark for many years and remains a core credo for the merged company.
It has recently been decided who will join CEO Finn Amund Norbye in the management group. A team of skilled, maritime experience will contribute to develop the business in a way that serves the customers, 2,000 employees on shore and our 29,000 seafarers.
The management group consists of:
• Finn Amund Norbye – Chief Executive Officer
• Olav Nortun – Chief Operating Officer – Ship management business division
• Stig Morten Helland – Deputy Chief Operating Officer – Ship management business division
• Tommy Olofsen – Chief Commercial Officer
• Julia Anastasiou – Chief Crew Management Officer
• Gautam Kashyap – Chief Marine Services Officer
• Constantinos Tzagotzides – Chief Accounting Officer
• Vassilis Malikides – Group Finance Director
• Jamie Morgan Ramsamy – Chief Digital Officer
• Kjell Ove Breivik – Chief Culture Officer
• Linda Hentsch – Global Head of Shore HR
• Mailyn Borillo – Managing Director, Philippines
• Morten Amundsen – Chief Legal Officer
INTERCARGO reaches membership milestone
The International Association of Dry Cargo Shipowners (INTERCARGO) has reached an historic membership milestone. The Association now represents 32% of the global dry bulk fleet (total) DWT.
INTERCARGO, which meets in Dubai this week for its Semi Annual Meetings, now has within its global fleet more than 3,200 bulkers registered by more than 155 dry bulk owners/managers/operators, with its membership supplemented by 90 associate member companies supporting the sector. INTERCARGO’s members, who span 30 countries, predominantly operate bulk carriers in the international dry bulk trades, such as coal, grain, iron ore and other bulk commodities.
On behalf of its steadily growing membership, INTERCARGO plays an active role in international maritime regulation including at the International Maritime Organization, where it has Non Governmental Organisation (NGO) status, and as a member of the shipping industry Round Table.
Commenting on the membership rise, Dr Kostas Gkonis, INTERCARGO Secretary General, said: “INTERCARGO is an association with a strong international voice and a great deal of weight within the shipping industry. Our progressive growth path over the past few years, together with our high retention rate, reflects the significance of the dedicated work we carry out on behalf of our global membership.”
While kidnap will always be traumatic, action can be taken to mitigate the impacts on crews
Although shipmanagers and owners are taking ever greater steps to protect their crews, the fact is that piracy is rife throughout parts of Asia, Africa and the Americas and it is likely that on any day of the year, a vessel will have been boarded by pirates and the crew subjected to a nightmare experience. Any crew suffering this chilling event will be impacted for an extended period of time, as will their families. But there are steps that can be taken by both hostages and their employers that will help to minimise the negative impact according to Charles Watkins, Founder of Mental Health Support Solutions (MHSS).
“Sadly this is not an uncommon occurrence,” he said. “Recently we have seen an incident on the Monjasa Reformer, a Danish oil tanker which was boarded in March, forcing the crew of 16 to lock themselves away in the ship’s safe room. They have just been rescued after more than five weeks under exceptionally challenging circumstances and my thoughts are with them and their loved ones. I hope that their employers and families understand that every individual will have a different response to the events and recovery will take place at a different pace for each of them.”
MHSS has worked with many seafarers following traumatic situations and has seen that the consequences may take as long as six months after the event to appear. The emotions felt during the ordeal, fear of death, extreme anxiety, helplessness, sadness, anger, a strong longing to escape the situation, and a sense of being out of control, can all lead to short- and long-term effects. Short term some may suffer nightmares, compulsions, or an array of emotions like fear, horror, anger, guilt, or shame. Others may experience feelings of detachment, dissociative reactions (e.g. flashbacks), depersonalisation (feelings of being removed from themselves), and being overly aware of potential threats.
Long-term effects may be even more debilitating in that they can persist over a much longer period, these can include an inability to experience positive emotions, avoiding going back to sea all together, or being treated differently by colleagues onboard after returning to work.
He continues, “It is really important for hostages to seek support from clinical psychologists and therapists once their ordeal is over. Doing this at an early stage can stabilise and start to decrease the symptoms of post-traumatic stress and help with understanding the connection between body and mind which, in itself, will help to alleviate feelings of anxiety and helplessness. What is more, talking to a professional can help them to understand that their responses are normal and that others go through similar periods of adjustment with similar symptoms. Equally important is learning how to focus on breathing when experiencing fear - fear changes the normal breathing patterns, which in turn can exacerbate feelings of anxiety.
“ In addition to talking with a clinician, they should accept any help and support offered by friends and family. They may be inclined to protect their friends and families from hearing about their experiences but it is actually beneficial for everyone if they can talk with their loved ones.”
It is not only the hostages themselves who are affected by the ordeal, but also their loved ones waiting at home for news. Shipmanagers and owners should ensure that they keep very close contact with the families throughout the course of the kidnap situation. Even if there is no new information, they should respond to families swiftly and regularly. Companies should be equally aware of the impact on crew working on their other vessels who may be friends of the hostages or have sailed with them in the past. It is a difficult circumstance for everyone involved so communication is key as is demonstrating that preventative strategies have been put in place to ensure crew security in the future.
KOTUG OptiPort and Helm CONNECT schedule more than 75% of all towage jobs in busiest US ports
KOTUG, in collaboration with its Integration Partner Helm Operations, is actively and autonomously scheduling all tug movements for some of America’s leading maritime operations.
Since early 2022, the advanced scheduling tool of KOTUG OptiPort has been active in some of the busiest ports of the USA - Los Angeles (LA) and Long Beach (LB) in California, Port Arthur in Texas and the Port of Tampa in Florida.
The process of scheduling the right tugs to match the right vessel is a complex task that requires advanced insights. To deal efficiently with the resulting complexities, some of the key operators in the USA have partnered with KOTUG OptiPort, the leading provider of intelligent tug scheduling software worldwide.
“OptiPort utilizes the latest developments in machine learning, data science, mathematical programming and data analytics,” explains Patrick Everts, General Manager at KOTUG. “It is the world’s first cloud-based tug scheduling software to use AI to optimize decision-making continuously and has been designed exclusively for maritime service providers.
“OptiPort improves dispatch operations to address the current economic and operational challenges facing the maritime industry. It enhances efficiency by combining AIS data from nautical assets, weather and tide data, work and crewing schedules, and port information to produce a tailored cost optimization and minimization model for users.”
In addition to the effective use of data and AI to optimize planning, KOTUG OptiPort offers a cloud-based reporting solution for reporting and analytics.
Helm CONNECT Jobs is the most widely used dispatch and billing software for the harbor towage sector. It is utilized by customers in 30+ countries to effectively dispatch thousands of assets.
Nolan Barclay, CEO at Helm Operations, said: “The partnership between Helm and KOTUG OptiPort offers harbour towage operators a simplified order-to-invoice workflow and access to significant optimized cost savings. Helm now also offers a new mobile app - Helm Portal - which allows local port agents to submit requests directly to towage operators, make changes to those requests, see live updates, and receive notifications - all via a handheld device. This provides timely and accurate dispatch information and keeps OptiPort up to date with real-time information to secure better operational recommendations.”
Implementing OptiPort and Helm CONNECT’s scheduling solution allows towage companies to deliver enhanced towage services in the ports the company operates in at the lowest costs. The software applies local rules and business/port standards in a consistent and optimized way, ensuring that the right tug is at the right location at the right time while sailing at the optimal speed. As a result, fuel consumption is reduced while tugboat utilization is simultaneously improved for the operator.
OptiPort also provides teams with more control over operations, with automatic real-time updates enabling tug hour scheduling to be accomplished in advance instead of at the last moment.
Cruise fleet activity recovers to pre-Covid-19 levels
In its latest weekly insight for the shipping industry, Clarksons Research has profiled the recovering activity levels in the cruise market.
Steve Gordon, Managing Director of Clarksons Research, commented: “The cruise industry was shipping’s hardest hit sector during the Covid pandemic but is now seeing improving activity levels after a hugely challenging period for cruise operators. Cruise fleet activity, measured by daily ports calls, has edged above pre-Covid-19 levels for the first time in recent weeks.
In 2020, over 90% of the cruise fleet was idle, with port calls activity only recovering to 40% of pre-Covid-19 levels in 2021 and to 87% in 2022, Gordon continued. Latest recovering activity since then has focused on North America and the Caribbean (port callings above pre-Covid-19 levels) while activity in Asia remains 40% down with a pick-up in Chinese activity expected from June.
“Improvements in passenger numbers have lagged due to lower occupancy rates,” Gordon added, but, following reports of robust booking volumes in recent months, we are projecting 30 million passengers across 2023, marginally exceeding 2019 volumes (passenger volumes in 2020 and 2021 averaged only 5m per year).“
According to Clarkson Research there are today 488 cruise vessels with a total of 674,000 berth capacity. Since the start of the pandemic, 40 cruise vessels have been sold for recycling but fleet capacity has begun to grow again and Clarkson Research projects it will be 20% larger than the pre-Covid-19 fleet by start 2025 (729,000 berths vs 614,000 berths).
It also notes that newbuilding investment is now focused on the small luxury cruise market with shipyards in China and Europe increasingly active and potential for new entrants on the operator side.
Meanwhile, the pre-Covid-19 build programme continues to deliver from European yards, but some of the longer-term investment plans for large cruise vessels have been scaled back.
Guidelines on the Application of the ILO Maritime Labour Convention, Fourth Edition
A new edition of the ICS bestselling publication, Guidelines on the Application of the ILO Maritime Labour Convention is now available in ebook version. Print copies will be officially released on 29 May.
The comprehensive and definitive guide to the MLC provides practical guidance on the convention to ensure readers are prepared for the regulatory changes that will affect them.
The updated and improved fourth edition:
- Addresses the wide range of MLC provisions including the 2022 updates, which will enter into force in December 2024.
- Includes practical guidance and tools not in previous editions, including checklists which help clarify requirements for compliance.
- Is simple to navigate, using infographics and colour coding so readers can easily see what changes have been made to regulations.
- Has been written to go hand in hand with other ICS guides on regulations, including the new edition of Guidelines on the IMO STCW Convention.
Written for shipping companies, crewing agents, superintendents, maritime colleges, flag/port state inspectors and anyone involved in the employment of seafarers, a copy of this guide should be on board every merchant ship.
Guidelines on the Application of the ILO Maritime Labour Convention, fourth edition, is priced at £150, To find out more and order direct, please see https://publications.ics-shipping.org
DP World launches direct freight service between UAE and Iraq
Global supply chain solutions provider DP World has launched the first direct freight service between the UAE and Iraq to make the flow of goods between the two countries faster, safer and more efficient.
The service caters for unaccompanied trailers, is the first service of its kind in the UAE and runs under the name of P&O Maritime Transports -- a DP World company.
The service takes approximately 36 hours to travel between Jebel Ali Port in the UAE and Umm Qasr Port in southern Iraq. It offers a new route between the two countries for road trailers, alleviating challenges faced by customers using cross-border land transport, which can take up to 14 days.
Unaccompanied trailers are loaded on to roll-on, roll-off (RORO) freight vessels, leaving the driver and cab behind at the port. Once the trailer reaches Umm Qasr Port, an Iraqi truck can drive it to its final destination anywhere in the country. Once delivered, the empty trailer is then returned to Umm Qasr and shipped by to Jebel Ali.
Until now, goods transported by road from the UAE to Iraq must be transloaded – a time consuming exercise of transferring cargo from the original truck to a locally-licensed vehicle. It is also risky, exposing the cargo in terms of damage, contamination and security.
DP World’s unaccompanied trailer service allows cargo owners and logistics companies to load a UAE-plated trailer in their local warehouse, ship it securely to Iraq and get the same trailer back, without the cargo having to change hands along the route.
This is especially useful for transporting palletised or project cargo – large, heavy duty, or complex pieces of equipment, due to the greater payload capacity of road going trailers. Purpose-built RORO freight vessels allow customers greater flexibility in the planning and movement of over-dimensional packages on low-bed and heavy-axle trailers. This generates significant cost savings versus traditional break bulk operations, as the cargo loaded on board a trailer is available to be delivered directly on site in Iraq.
Jesper Kristensen, Group Chief Operating Officer, DP World Marine Services, said: “The launch of this new route is a step change in our service offering in the UAE. It is a great example of our customer-focused approach at DP World, using innovative and tailored solutions to enable the flow of goods. Iraq's economy is growing rapidly, but until now it relied on transit through its neighbours for its import and export needs. Our new direct service starts to address this, opening a new more efficient trade route for the country."
“On top of the time and efficiency benefits, our service will also offer significant sustainability benefits. By shipping the trailer alone to Iraq, we expect to remove thousands of trucks from the roads every year, helping our clients reduce their CO2 emissions,” he added.
The first customer to use the route was the ADSO Group, a UAE-based logistics firm (www.adsodxb.com ).
Speaking about the maiden journey, Riaz Karmali, General Manager at ADSO, said: “As one of the first P&O Maritime Transports customers to use the service, we are extremely pleased with such a transport solution for our freight industry. The new service is ground-breaking and delivers great logistical efficiencies across our operations.
“We are optimistic our clients will greatly benefit from this service, and it will be a win-win solution for shippers, forwarders and receivers alike.”
PSA and Kazakhstan Railways join forces to enhance trade on Trans-Caspian International Transport Route
Global ports and supply chain solutions provider PSA International and Kazakhstan Railways (KTZ), operator of the main railway network of the Republic of Kazakhstan, have signed an agreement to establish a joint venture company, KPMC Ltd. KPMC will promote the development of the Trans-Caspian International Transport Route (TITR), enhancing connectivity and trade flows from Southeast Asia and China, through Kazakhstan, and beyond to Europe.
The TITR is a rail corridor route that connects China and Europe, offering cargo owners an additional intermodal transport option to help them balance their supply chain needs of resilience, agility and sustainability. The partnership between KTZ and PSA aims to develop the TITR through initiatives such as the organisation of block trains and provision of station-to-station products and services. This increases cargo flow, improves transit times and reduces the cost of transportation through the TITR.
Mr Tan Chong Meng, Group CEO of PSA International, said: “This joint venture is a milestone moment for PSA, as it expands our global footprint into Central Asia, and reflects our continued commitment to enhance global connectivity and enable sustainable trade.
“By partnering with KTZ to develop a holistic physical and digital ecosystem for the users and stakeholders of the Trans-Caspian International Transport Route, we seek to create a seamless and efficient logistics network that offers cargo owners a vital and valuable option to improve the agility, resilience and sustainability of their businesses.”
Mr Wan Chee Foong, Regional CEO Middle East South Asia & Head of Group Business Development of PSA International, said: “PSA’s global presence with an established network of ports and supply chain capabilities enables us to add value in the development and commercialisation of TITR. This synergistic partnership will not only bolster PSA’s efforts to expand its rail product offerings but also empower KTZ to tap into new markets and establish itself as a pivotal player in the global logistics landscape.”
The Agreement was signed during the Kazakhstan-Singapore Business Forum in Astana on 22 May 2023, in the presence of Singapore’s President Mdm Halimah Yacob and Kazakhstan’s Prime Minister Mr Alikhan Smailov. It is subject to customary conditions including regulatory approval.
Royal HaskoningDHV improves vessels' safety with Twinn software
Belfast Harbour, Northern Ireland’s principle maritime gateway, implements Royal HaskoningDHV’s innovative Twinn Smart Mooring software to help safeguard vessels at berth. With the large number of bulk vessels, ferries and cruise ships calling at Belfast, combined with heavier and more frequent storms due to climate change and the extended cruise season, the Port Authority has a greater challenge to ensure improved safety of moored ships. Royal HaskoningDHV’s digital solution uses real-time data and metocean forecasts to predict unsafe situations for moored ships and helps to prevent accidents in the Port.
“With Smart Mooring, we can immediately see where and when we could have a potential problem with moored ships – and take appropriate mitigating action. This software plays a key role in helping us to protect against bollard overloading and failure due to excessive forces imparted by large cruise ships and additionally providing coverage for other critical and at-risk berths,” said Kevin Allen, Harbour Master at Belfast Harbour.
By alerting port operators about mooring line forces and ship motions in advance, the software solution helps to determine safe mooring for critical vessels during storms and assess safe mooring periods for vessels arriving to Belfast. As a result, the software provides sufficient risk mitigation to avoid the need and expense of installing temporary storm bollards at the wind-sensitive wharf quays.
"It’s fascinating, because until you engage with technology, you don't know how better informed your decisions could be. This software provides an opportunity to mitigate risks and maintain operational efficiency with support from a digital solution, rather than investing in additional quay furniture and very much aligns with our Smart Port Strategy. For example, Smart Mooring will play a key role in helping us to protect against bollard overloading and line failures, further improving safety in the Port. With a record-breaking cruise season upcoming the insights provided by Smart Mooring will help support safe and efficient management of these large wind-sensitive vessels at berth,” said Kevin Allen, Harbour Master at Belfast Harbour.
This agreement with Belfast Harbour is the latest example of Royal HaskoningDHV’s Twinn digital solutions supporting ports, terminal operators and logistics companies to make more informed decisions that boost safety, increase operational uptime and drive digitalisation.
InterManager urges EC to employ ‘polluter pays’ principle to ensure environmental policy hits its mark
Ship managers are urging the European Commission to follow the ‘polluter pays’ approach when finalising legislation intended to reduce greenhouse gas emissions from shipping in European waters.
They have highlighted concerns that proposed legislation could miss its mark if it holds ship management firms accountable for emissions reductions rather than target the parties who control key pollution-related aspects of ship operation such as fuel, machinery and vessel speed.
The Commission is set to finalise legislation which will include GHG emissions from maritime transport within the EU Emissions Trading Scheme (EU-ETS) and ship management association InterManager, which represents 80% of the world’s largest ship management companies, has submitted a position paper to inform this discussion. Its concerns centre on the definition of the entity responsible for ETS compliance.
In it’s submission InterManager stated: “The huge financial risk imposed on ship managers by the revised ETS Directive is disproportionate to the negligible influence managers have in respect of the emissions generation by maritime transport. By directing compliance and enforcement measures at a party which is neither the polluter nor able to exert significant influence on the polluter, the current form of the revised ETS Directive significantly dilutes the incentives for polluters to reduce emissions. This is in direct conflict with the “polluter pays” principle, which is a key tenet of EU environmental policy.”
InterManager stressed that it recognises the importance of reducing greenhouse gas emissions from maritime transport and welcomes regulations designed to enable the shipping industry to decarbonise, including revisions to the EU-ETS to include maritime transport emissions within its scope.
However, it urged the Commission to word the regulation carefully to ensure the correct parties are in focus: “Under a Polluter Pays Scheme such as EU-ETS, the default responsible party should be the one controlling the highest number of emissions relevant aspects, not the one with the lowest.”
“As technical ship managers we take care of repairs, maintenance and crewing for, and on behalf, as agents of our customers the shipowners. Most of a vessel’s emission relevant key aspects are outside our remit – the speed, predominantly determining the consumption, as well as the trading area of the vessels are contractually agreed between shipowner and charterer in the Charter Party Contract, without involvement of the technical ship manager. The type of fuel used, the engines and other machinery installed on the vessels are decided by the shipowner when ordering or buying the vessel, also outside our remit,” it wrote.
InterManager Secretary General, Captain Kuba Szymanski, commented: “It would be patently unjust if the EU legislation forcibly imposed that the ship manager shall be the regulated entity, this would be similar to holding the facility manager responsible, not the factory owner.”
Noting the EU’s efforts to align the EU-ETS legislation with the shipping industry’s ISM Code, InterManager’s submission points out: “ISM is concerned with the safety of vessel operations in which we, as technical managers, do have a say as we provide the crew that operates the vessel in a safe manner as well as the procedural framework that allows them to do so. EU ETS is not geared towards safety but aims at reducing the environmental impact of shipping, which will require different fuels, different machinery and/or lower speeds - all decisions outside the remit of the technical ship manager.”
InterManager is a Cyprus-registered global association which has been representing the ship management sector for more than 30 years. It is an active participant at the International Maritime Organization, the United Nations maritime regulatory body, where it holds Non-Governmental Organisational (NGO) status.
Ship managers today technically manage nearly 25% of the world fleet and that number is growing rapidly. They also look after and (indirectly) employ more than 90% of the 1.7 million seafarers serving on that fleet. They are at the very forefront of technical, digital, logistic, procurement, human resource management, training and welfare development. They deal with a wider visibility of issues across the shipping, offshore and commodity sectors than any other operator.
NAVTOR offers five keys to understanding and improving CIIs
Jacob Clausen (pictured), Managing Director of NAVTOR Denmark, cuts through the confusion regarding CII (Carbon Intensity Indicator) compliance and optimisation with five key pieces of advice as follows:
1. The value of C
On the A to E scale, the target for every vessel is C or higher. Any rating is compliant with IMO regulations, but a failure to attain a C will have implications for your vessel’s Ship Energy Efficiency Management Plan (SEEMP) – in other words, there’ll be work to do.
There’s good news if your vessel can hit the heights of A (and not just in terms of lower OPEX, enhanced environmental performance, and reputational/market advantage) as its asset value will, on average, be 7% higher than if it had attained a C-rating. On the flip side, if a vessel plumbs the depths of an E rating, the ship’s value will drop by 12% compared to a C-rating. So, it really does pay to perform.
2. Continual improvements
Ambitious environmental targets create a need for continual improvement rather than one-off efforts. This is reflected in the fact that the targets for achieving a C rating get 2% stricter every year. This creates the need for on-going, accurate and intelligent monitoring, analysis and optimisation of environmental performance, with a broad range of measures to drive down carbon intensity. So, what can be done?
3. Pick and mix approaches
There’s no one size fits all answer to optimising CII ratings - since vessel types and operating patterns are obviously different - but thankfully there’s a diverse menu of strategies to choose from. Slow-steaming is an obvious start, as is reducing auxiliary energy consumption and taking measures to ensure efficiency in your vessel’s main engine performance.
Poorly performing hulls are a drag – in more ways than one – so a proactive approach to hull cleaning, optimisation of the hull, and advanced hull coatings can make a major difference to fuel consumption, costs and environmental efficiency.
In addition, there’s a vast array of energy saving innovations available (for many different vessel areas/functions), while intelligent weather routing can, in some cases, shed percentage points off fuel consumption. Accessing shore power is a smart move when conducting port side operations, while the adoption of alternative low carbon fuels (e.g., biofuels, methanol and ammonia/hydrogen) translates to obvious gains.
Aside from these measures, changes to the distances travelled by vessels, the time at sea versus idling, and utilization, amongst other key operational factors, also make significant impacts… as we’ll see here:
4. The impact of owner and operator decision-making
There’s some fundamental operational choices owners and operators can make that, while seemingly small, can have major impact on a vessel’s attained CII.
Using a 50K DWT tanker, travelling at 12 kn, spending 50% of its time at sea as a case study, we see that a 1 kn speed reduction (raising time at sea to 54.5%) can make a CII difference of 9%. Potentially bringing a CII rating of D down to C. A 10.9 kn speed and 55% at sea makes a CII difference of 10%. Maintaining 12 kn but raising time at sea to 55%, meanwhile, makes a 2% impact.
The same vessel, operating on the same parameters, with a 20% reduction in basic load will enjoy a 4% CII gain, while a 10% improvement in hull cleaning will translate to an 8% CII advantage. Add the two together and that’s a 12% positive impact in terms of CII.
So, there’s plenty that can be done if you work to understand, monitor and analyse the performance of your fleet with an advanced solution, such as NAVTOR’s NavFleet offering.
5. Remember your corrections
Finally, MEPC 78 saw some voyage adjustments and ‘correction factors’ added to the CII formula. Although, at first glance, this may appear to complicate calculation, it’s important to bear these in mind to ensure that your data is accurate and that you don’t overstate your carbon intensity, getting unfairly penalised in the process.
Deductions can be made across a broad range of criteria, including for certain voyages, energy consumed for a range of activities, such as cargo loading, discharging and cargo cooling/heating, as well as shuttle tanker operations, ship to ship transfers, and so on.
CII may seem daunting, but there’s opportunity inherent in the challenge; with a powerful framework to cut costs, as well as emissions, while improving overall fleet efficiency and understanding. With the right partners, and smart shipping solutions, CII will not only help us in decarbonizing the shipping industry, but can also be genuinely positive for your business – a Commercially Intriguing Initiative.
Maritime UK appoints new Chief Executive Officer
Maritime UK, the umbrella organisation for the UK’s maritime sector, has appointed Chris Shirling-Rooke MBE as its new Chief Executive Officer. He will move over from Mersey Maritime to Maritime UK in the early summer and we thank Mersey Maritime for helping to facilitate a seamless transfer.
Chris is currently CEO of Mersey Maritime, a maritime regional cluster organisation based in the Liverpool City Region. In this role he has championed the importance of maritime around the coast of the United Kingdom and Northern Ireland as a key driver of the Maritime 2050 strategy. He has led work to build out the ‘coastal powerhouse’ agenda which matters so much both to industry and government.
Chris has been CEO of Mersey Maritime since 2013 and has led a small professional team whose role is to support members business growth, highlight the breadth and diversity of the sector and strengthen local supply chains by building relationships across companies of all sizes – from ports and global shipping lines to engineering firms and innovative start-ups. He was appointed MBE in 2021 for services to maritime.
Commenting on Chris’ appointment, Chair of Maritime UK, Robin Mortimer said: “I am delighted that Chris will be joining Maritime UK, the umbrella body representing the maritime sector, as the new CEO. He brings a track record of leadership and commitment in promoting maritime and the crucial role the sector plays in the life of the UK. Chris will be focussed on delivering on behalf of all Maritime UK’s members. He is passionate about the sector making a positive impact economically, socially and environmentally and ensuring the UK remains a leading maritime nation on the global stage.”
Chris Shirling-Rooke added: “It is an incredible honour for me to take on this new position and to build on the fantastic work already delivered by the Maritime UK team on behalf of its members, stakeholders and the industry as whole. Major overarching challenges face our sector which supports over 1 million jobs, contributes over £46bn to our economy and is responsible for facilitating 95% of UK global trade.
"Our response to climate change and how we influence the delivery of key initiatives such as the Clean Maritime Plan, due to be published later this year, will be a major focus as well as ensuring we maximise the opportunity presented by London International Shipping Week in September to showcase our dynamic industry to the whole world. I look forward to working with our members and all colleagues as we deliver our shared priorities and ensure the voice of maritime is heard at the highest levels.”
John Hulmes, Chairman of Mersey Maritime, said: “Chris leaves Mersey Maritime on a high having made a huge contribution to the numerous and often complex outcomes we are involved in and has, at a time of great maritime opportunity, raised our profile regionally, nationally and internationally. Mersey Maritime is the voice of the industry in the region and Chris has led his team with vigour, elan and innovation. The Mersey Maritime Board wishes Chris every success in his new role and look forward to continuing to work with him to further the interests of the industry and enterprise. We will announce our new CEO in due course.”
Maritime UK is the umbrella body for the maritime sector, bringing together the shipping, ports, services, engineering and leisure marine industries. Its purpose is to champion and enable a thriving maritime sector. Maritime UK has responsibility for the coordination and delivery of industry recommendations within Maritime 2050.
Its members are Belfast Maritime Consortium, British Marine, British Ports Association, CLIA UK & Ireland, Connected Places Catapult, Institute of Chartered Shipbrokers, Maritime London, Maritime UK South West, Mersey Maritime, Nautilus International, Port Skills and Safety, Shipping Innovation, Society of Maritime Industries, Solent LEP, The Baltic Exchange, The Seafarers' Charity, The Workboat Association, Trinity House, UK Chamber of Shipping and the UK Major Ports Group.
Hapag-Lloyd appoints Joerg Sonne as Senior Managing Director Region North Europe
Joerg Sonne will become Hapag=Lloyd’s Senior Managing Director Region North Europe, succeeding Martin Rolf, who will take over the position of Managing Director Human Resources.
Sonne (pictured) joined Hapag-Lloyd as a result of the merger with UASC and successfully led Area Arabian Gulf from 2017 to 2022. For the last eight months, he has served as Managing Director Area Germany & Central Europe. He will be based in Hapag-Lloyd’s headquarters in Hamburg.
“In recent years, Joerg has continuously demonstrated his leadership and commercial expertise within Hapag-Lloyd,” said Rolf Habben Jansen, CEO of Hapag-Lloyd. “In him, we have found an excellent leader to keep growing our business in Region North Europe.”
Sonne will start in his new position on 1 June 2023.
Marlink enhances hybrid digital network solution for Polembros Shipping with Starlink
Smart network and digital solutions company Marlink will install the Starlink LEO service for Athens-based ship manager Polembros Shipping. A Marlink partner for many years, Polembros will extend its digital toolset to include the new LEO service on a trial basis to support crew welfare and remote technology.
Polembros is already a user of Marlink’s hybrid network, including guaranteed throughput VSAT services across its fleet. The deployment of the SeaLink NextGen service will bring much faster throughput and lower latency to the company’s business and crew communications, enabling the deployment of digital solutions and crew welfare services.
Sealink NextGen combines GEO VSAT and MSS back-up with customers’ required mix of LEO or MEO connectivity, 5G and digital solutions, all controlled and managed via Marlink’s smart platform XChange. This hybrid solution integrates and protects critical maritime connectivity, powering new applications for business and crew.
Polembros Shipping has been in existence since 1974, though the shareholders’ family traces its shipping connections back to the 19th century. The company currently manages a fleet of Aframax and Suezmax tankers and sister operation Polembros Bulkers manages vessels ranging in size from Handysize to Newcastlemax.
Both Polembros companies are devoted to continuously improving their service and particularly committed to ensuring their ships are operated safely and efficiently, with capable and reliable marine personnel. Relying on invaluable knowledge and experience, ashore and at sea, innovative technologies and a clear vision for the future, Polembros Shipping and Polembros Bulkers are determined to continue their diligent pursuit of excellence.
Greek shipping companies are increasingly following a trend towards higher throughput communications, enjoying access to a new family of applications enabled by Starlink’s very low latency global service. This includes video streaming services, instant data transfer tools and remote access technology for maintenance and compliance.
“Polembros Shipping and Polembros Bulkers are companies with a reputation built up over many years for dedication to safety and quality; we value innovations like Starlink as a contributor to our performance,” said Vasilis Kottas, IT Manager, Polembros Shipping. “Our partnership with Marlink is a factor in our success as a company which delivers the high standard of communications required by our fleet managers and our shipboard teams.”
“Marlink is proud to help Polembros Shipping take this next step in its journey with new digital services that enable a new generation of applications and tools to support fleet performance and safety,” said Tore Morten Olsen, President, Maritime, Marlink. “Adding the Starlink LEO service to the Marlink hybrid network is a further strengthening of our valued and longstanding relationship that positions Polembros as a future-focused company.”
Burkhard Fischer assumes chairmanship of Association of Average Adjusters
Burkhard Fischer has been elected chair of the Association of Average Adjusters for the term 2023-2024 and pledged to help strengthen support for the international members in the body which has served the marine claims sector for more than a century and a half.
Widely renowned for his expertise in marine insurance, Mr Fischer (pictured, right), a director of Albatross Adjusters, Limassol, succeeds Sir Nigel Teare (left), an Honorary Fellow of the Association, who has been chair for 2022-23. Mr Fischer has served as vice-chair of the Association for the past seven years and chaired the General Average sub-committee.
At the Association’s annual conference in London on May 11, 2023, Mr Fischer said that a priority during his term will be increasing the involvement of the membership based outside London. This could be achieved “by organising seminars and social events, not as a one-off but rather on a regular basis.”
He explained: “During the last one and a half decades the Association has done a great job in widening its appeal with the exams, qualifications, and various levels of membership, plus the acceptance of Fellows working for non-adjusting companies.” About half the number of Fellows is now based outside the UK.
“There have always been Fellows working abroad, but what has changed is that in the past those used to be mainly UK nationals who were linked to a UK company and were often only posted for a few years. Nowadays there are several Fellows that have never worked and might never work in the UK. The same applies for many members who are Associates, and I would expect the numbers to further increase over the next years.”
He said: “We are thinking about seminars and receptions to be held in places other than London, possibly even a dinner event every so many years, in one of the major shipping hubs, such as Singapore, Hong Kong, Piraeus, Tokyo, Rotterdam or Hamburg. Perhaps even in Liverpool, where an impressive number of young Fellows is based. The younger generation of Fellows and Associates especially is invited to contribute their ideas and offer their active support.”
While some older Fellows were stepping down from committees and pondering retirement, the total number of practising Fellows had slightly increased. “This is a positive sign: the Association is in a healthy shape, and there is potential to further increase the membership by promoting the Association through seminars and events.
“However, what about the profession itself of average adjuster, is that safe as well? Unfortunately, not as safe as it should be, and I am referring here mainly to the independent average adjuster. We pride ourselves in our ability to adjust claims in accordance with our known standards, and to provide independent and unbiased advice to shipowners and to the marine insurance industry, often on a 24/7 basis.
“Leading marine insurers and brokers are relying not only on our proven educational background but on the fact that we look back on several years, quite often decades, of claims handling experience. It is no secret and perhaps no surprise that over the years, they have shown a desire to enhance their in-house expertise by employing Fellows of the Association, and we have to acknowledge the attraction for both sides.
“More expertise should always be welcomed; however, we should complement each other rather than compete. Should the trend continue that marine insurers steer towards adjusting claims in-house, this will limit the business opportunities for truly independent adjusters, which in the long run could render an adjusting career, and the training ground, less attractive. It is no coincidence that there are currently only a handful of countries where young people seem to consider a future in average adjusting.”
Mr Fischer said that it was “a true privilege for me as a German national” to chair a UK association. The Association had its first overseas chairman in 2018 with Willum Richards of New Zealand, and subsequently Michiel Starmans of Amsterdam-based Spliethoff Group was the first non-British chairman, also based outside the UK. This shows that the Association is becoming even more international and more diverse.”
Mr Fischer had always felt that his term as chair would mark the beginning of a new phase for the Association, “because when I qualified as a Fellow in 2011, a 15-year drought came to an end, during which only a handful of new Fellows had qualified. It is unavoidable that future chairs of the Association will come mainly from the pool of young women and men that qualified after me.”
He concluded: “We are living through difficult times, the world is facing challenges of various categories, geopolitical, environmental, economic, technological and societal. Insurance cover against war risks, natural disasters and widespread cybercrime is more important than ever, and that means that there will always be a need for claims adjusters, problem-solvers, and mediators. This is our role, this is what we are good at, and we must ensure that we continue promoting the value of our services.”
Mr Fischer has spent most of his adjusting career with one company, Albatross Adjusters (previously SHH) in Limassol. Before deciding to settle in Cyprus 37 years ago, he entered the shipping world as a deck cadet with the German merchant navy, then after a break of seven years switched to marine insurance and adjusting.
New vice-chair of the Association is Chris Kilbee who started his working life in London in 1975. Apart from 12 years in Australia, in Perth and Sydney, he has been practising as an average adjuster in Singapore since 1977. He qualified as a Fellow in 1987 and heads Marine Claims Office, an adjusting firm with offices in Singapore, Jakarta, and Perth.
Other officers of the Association are unchanged: Tristan Miller as treasurer, Keith Martin as convenor of the examining committee and David Clancey as convenor of the advisory and dispute resolution panel. Joseph Shead has been elected to the committee of management.
Members of the Association warmly thanked Ian Tucker, who has retired from active adjusting, for his services. Mr Tucker began his career with Eagle Star Insurance in 1969, moving to Blue Star Line, a leading shipowner. He entered the average adjusting profession in 1972 and spent the next 21 years with William Elmslie & Son and ER Lindley & Sons, before moving to Maritime Adjusting Services. He was the Association’s treasurer for 11 years.
TT Club joins anti-corruption alliance
In a move to underline further the mutual insurer’s commitment to making the industry safer and more secure, TT Club has joined the Maritime Anti-Corruption Network (MACN), which represents a pre-eminent example of collective action to tackle corruption in the maritime sector.
TT Club has long been aware of the issues surrounding corruption in the maritime transport industry. The insurer is dedicated to ensuring these corrupting effects on the overall integrity of freight transport worldwide are minimised, if not eradicated. As such TT is delighted to partner with the MACN, an organisation with an exceptional track record of highlighting and reducing corruption.
MACN is a global business network working towards the vision of a maritime industry free of corruption that enables fair trade to benefit of society at large. With a current membership of over 180 organisations globally, MACN has three primary objectives: Capability Building, Collective Action and Collaboration.
As the only non-P&I insurer to be part of MACN, and as a specialist mutual insurer in both maritime and shoreside multi-modal activities, TT is well placed to use its established skills in co-developing and sharing best practices across the complex global supply chain on both land and at sea.
TT will work with MACN in implementing its Anti-Corruption Principles by raising the awareness of corruption issues and promoting best practices to combat its effects. Moreover, the insurer will help MACN promote their drive for collective action with the aim of creating a more sustainable operating environment through anonymous reporting and data analysis. Finally, through its experience and knowledge of shore-side operations TT will widen the scope of MACN efforts to combat corruption beyond its current maritime focus. All in support of their own insured Members’ operations.
In commenting on TT’s new membership, COO Mark Argentieri said, “At TT we have aligned our ESG strategy with the UN Global Compact and its Sustainable Development Goals, becoming a signatory to the UN Principles for Sustainable Insurance (UN PSI) late last year. In now joining MACN, we are taking a further step in focusing on the issues that are most relevant to our own Members, and where the Club is able to have a positive impact, cooperating with international institutions that are dedicated to ensuring increased transparency in maritime transactions and enhanced procedural integrity.”
In welcoming TT as a new member, Cecilia Müller Torbrand, CEO of MACN said, “We are delighted to welcome TT Club to the Maritime Anti-Corruption network (MACN) and look forward to working together towards the elimination of all forms of maritime corruption. It is exciting that we will be able to reach a new group of stakeholders with TT Club as a Member.”
Within TT’s stated ESG framework there are particular committed actions that are very much in line with MACN’s aims. TT’s history of working with governmental organisations such as the IMO, and a swathe of industry representative associations in order to improve safety, security and environmental standards is impressive. The Club will replicate these efforts in working with governments, regulators and other key stakeholders to promote widespread action on anti-corruption matters.
Bureau Veritas Solutions Marine & Offshore and ENGIE announce low-carbon advisory and risk management partnership
Bureau Veritas Solutions Marine & Offshore, a technical advisory, asset management and assurance solutions organization, and ENGIE, a global industry leader in low-carbon energy supply and related services, have announced a partnership to provide advisory & hedging services to support shipowners, operators, and charterers in navigating the complexities of GHG reduction requirements.
Bureau Veritas Solutions Marine & Offshore (BVS), part of Bureau Veritas, a world leader in testing, inspection, and certification, is joining forces with ENGIE’s entity Global Energy Management & Sales (GEMS), the energy management arm of ENGIE, to develop a suite of advisory and market access services to help shipping interests to thoroughly understand upcoming regulatory requirements, manage their risk and identify the optimal low-carbon emissions roadmap for their operations.
This partnership aims to provide vessel owners, operators and charters with the expertise and insight they require in managing their marine fuels and carbon prices exposures in the context of an increasingly differentiated marine fuels market, by fuel type, geographic location, and carbon intensity. This will provide BVS and GEMS’s customers with a low carbon emission transportation roadmap that fits with their commercial and operational requirements and aligns with their risk management needs.
This partnership brings together GEMS’s experience in the analysis and trading of energy products, including emission allowances under the EU Emissions Trading System (ETS), with BVS’s technical advisory and consultancy expertise in the marine and offshore sectors, to offer commercial and risk-management solutions to owners, operators and charterers looking at how to best manage their present and future low-carbon operating models.
Paul Shrieve (pictured), President of Bureau Veritas Solutions Marine & Offshore, said: “For customers facing unprecedented complexity in global energy markets and an increasingly diverse marine fuels landscape, this partnership between BVS and GEMS offers a one-stop-shop for clarity and expert guidance on developing the appropriate fleet GHG strategy, and associated risk management.
“Understanding the operating profile of your vessels, your marine fuel requirements and GHG impact is an essential step, but it’s important to also understand how that translates into a low-carbon operating model that meets your operating needs, spanning different vessel types and fuels, and different regions and regulatory regimes.”
Marc Pannier, Executive Committee member at ENGIE business entity ‘Global Energy Management & Sales’, said: “In an increasingly complex carbon market, the move to include maritime emissions in the EU Emissions Trading System is another important consideration for shipping organisations that want to chart a course towards a low-carbon roadmap that meets their fleets’ needs and cuts their emissions, whilst also limiting their exposure to price volatility.
“Through this partnership with BVS, we will work with shipping organisations to develop and execute strategies that manage the risks they face and seize the opportunities in today’s global energy markets through the right choice of hedging tools, as well as carbon offsetting solutions.”
By assessing the energy consumption and carbon emissions of an organization’s fleet, trading patterns and routes, in conjunction with access to global energy markets and a wide range of risk management strategies, BVS and GEMS will help developing the optimal solution for commercial exposure and carbon objectives.
This will include support on how to best align an organization’s GHG emissions reduction strategies with the proposal from the European Commission’s ‘Fit for 55’ package regarding the progressive inclusion of emissions from maritime transport in the EU ETS, and the upcoming FuelEU Maritime initiative.
BVS and GEMS will also guide owners, operators and charters on the evolving regulatory and voluntary landscape for managing carbon emissions from shipping operations, including current and impending regulatory requirements, as well as advice on managing their wider sustainability footprint. This can also include the opportunity for carbon offsetting strategies and products, as part of a wider low-carbon strategy.
Swedish Club partners with VW to address Electric Vehicle safety in upcoming webinar
As the demand for electric vehicles grows, questions are increasingly being asked about fire safety during transportation by sea. The Swedish Club has embarked on a series of webinars aimed at putting the risks in context and providing advice on how to deal with them.
On Friday 26 May at 10.00 CET, a panel of experts including Torben Stadtaus of Volkswagen, Martin Carlsson of Stena Teknik and Captain Filip Svensson of Wallenius Wilhelmsen will join the Club’s Loss Prevention team to share their specialist knowledge in this emerging field. ‘Fire II: Electric vehicles on board – being prepared’ will explore safety and probability training for crews on board ships carrying electric vehicles and allow the panellists to share their own business experiences in addition to hosting a Q&A session for delegates.
Johan Kahlmeter (pictured), Director, Claims at The Swedish Club says: “It is rare that the industry faces dealing with totally new cargoes in significant quantities, and yet that is the unique challenge that we face with the carriage of electric vehicles on board ships. These vehicles are tightly loaded, large values are at stake, and a safe haven might be far away.
“It is essential that all those on board are given access to the latest safety and loss prevention advice,” he says.
This webinar comes hot on the heels of last month’s popular webinar ‘Fire! Electric vehicles on board – should we be worried?’ which covered the major hazards of electric vehicle fires, how to deal with them and how to tell fact from fiction when considering the risks.
To register for ‘Fire II: Electric vehicles on board – being prepared’, or to watch last month’s webinar ‘Fire! Electric vehicles on board - should we be worried?’ please visit The Swedish Club's website.
Ocean Technologies Group teams up with Navguide Solutions to help crew prepare for inspections
Ship inspections play a crucial role in ensuring the safety, security, and environmental compliance of vessels at sea. They are an integral part of the regulatory framework that governs the maritime industry and assist in promoting the well-being of crew members and passengers and preventing accidents.
They are also increasingly used by charterers looking to go beyond minimum standards and contribute to ensuring high standards of operational excellence in the shipping sector, such as through SIRE and Rightship inspections.
Whilst this drive for operational excellence is to be welcomed, it is increasingly challenging for ship operators to conform with these standards and ensure their crew are sufficiently prepared.
Ocean Technologies Group (OTG), the leader in maritime e-learning and human resource technology solutions, has entered into a partnership with Navguide Solutions, an innovative company specialising in improving vessel inspection performance. The agreement will see OTG distribute a range of specialist e-learning programmes through the multi-award-winning Ocean Learning Platform, providing customers with new resources to help prepare crew for inspections and improve vessel inspection performance.
Drawing on their teams’ first-hand experience of conducting inspections and audits, Navguide created ten programmes comprising of over 200 microlearning resources to help operators improve inspection performance and standards of competence. These resources complement existing Ocean Learning Library content with practical hands-on guidance on how to deal with real-world situations, supporting crew to better prepare for audits and inspections.
The material aids seafarers by showing clear examples of what good and bad looks like when inspecting equipment across a range of on and below-deck operational areas.
It also includes some gamified simulations that guide crew through inspection interview scenarios. These are intended to help seafarers consider the most helpful responses to inspectors’ questions and give them the confidence to communicate effectively.
The partnership offers a valuable solution to operators at a time when updates to the Rightship questionnaire, and the human factors approach in SIRE 2.0, expected to launch later this year, will see crew interviews playing a far more significant component in an inspector’s assessment of a vessel.
“These modules are a perfect accompaniment to our existing inspection material as they provide highly-visual, practical examples that can be easily translated into real-world application in the preparation for audits and inspections,” said Knut Mikalsen, OTG’s Director of Learning Solutions
“We, at Navguide, are thrilled and excited to team up with OTG, the largest maritime training provider in the world,” said Capt. Debashis Basu, Managing Partner, Navguide Solutions. “They share our vision of empowering everyone on board with necessary on-job skills through interesting tools that are engaging to the modern seafarer. Through this collaboration, we can assist vessel operators in improving inspection results in Port State control, SIRE, Rightship and other audits and inspections.”
He continued: “We aim to empower every seafarer with the vision that helps them pick up non-compliances as they go along, enhancing efficiency, professionalism and confidence in their workplace.”
Technology call for early hold fire detection solutions to prevent cargo fire and loss
The Cargo Fire & Loss Innovation Initiative (CFLII), a technology acceleration initiative to reduce cargo fires and losses overboard, is asking technology providers to come forward to solve the issue of fire detection in cargo holds. It is seeking solutions for early-stage detection, one of the most important issues in the drive to mitigate container loss.
Launched in February this year by Safetytech Accelerator, the programme comprises Lloyd’s Register, Seaspan, Evergreen Line, HMM, Maersk, the Offen Group and ONE and was established with the aim of reducing cargo loss at sea by shaping joint requirements, identifying technology solutions, undertaking carefully designed trials and developing best practices and recommendations.
Following extensive knowledge sharing among the group, the need for improved fire-detection systems in container cargo holds has been identified as the most pressing area of focus. Early fire detection, or identifying a fire-risk prior to ignition, is critically important to minimise the likelihood of a large-scale fire, therefore advancing successful containment without the creation of significant loss and any associated marine impact.
The Initiative is therefore calling on technology companies to come forward with suitable solutions in early-stage fire detection for cargo holds. This open call is looking for low-cost, robust solutions with the appropriate form factors to operate in the cargo-hold environment. Interested technology companies should outline how the proposed solutions will deliver these requirements. Technology companies with potential solutions to the challenge are being encouraged to submit them by the end of May.
Initial analysis carried out by Safetytech Accelerator shows that the opportunities for advancing potential solutions to solve this are substantial. We are approaching a tipping point where these technologies are maturing in terms of both cost and effectiveness to make an impact.
Rich McLoughlin, Head of Maritime Engagement and CFLII Programme Director at Safetytech Accelerator said: “There is a real need to understand how technology can help container operators minimise fire risk. Although we are seeing incredible efforts being made by industry in other areas - such as screening for the mis-declaration and non-declaration of dangerous goods - there continues to be fire risks associated with commonly shipped container cargoes. The Initiative has identified this as a key area of interest, and we are keen to push the boundaries on current practice.”
Alfred Gomez, Director Marine Standards and Designated Person Ashore (DPA) at Seaspan Corporation said: “From an industry perspective this subject is a real priority. Ships are larger in size and have exponentially increased their carrying capacity, including dangerous goods, increasing the risk of threat to the safety of lives, vessel, cargo, and the environment. There has been little or no innovation in fire detection systems in the cargo hold to keep up with the way shipping has evolved.”
“Precious minutes lost in identifying cargo hold fires can make the difference between minor and major losses. This initiative spearheaded by Safetytech Accelerator, including leading container operators, provides us with an exceptional platform to further discuss the challenges and limitations, while exploring creative solutions. We look forward to this robust partnership to jointly come up with a ground-breaking, practical, and reliable solutions which will further our quest to detect fires in cargo holds early and protect the safety of our colleagues at sea and the ecosystems in which we operate.”
ScanReach appoints Sven Brooks as CEO and Geir Utne Berg as CFO
ScanReach, a global leader in wireless connectivity at sea, is pleased to announce the permanent appointment of Sven Brooks as Chief Executive Officer, effective immediately.
Sven Brooks (pictured, left) brings with him a wealth of knowledge and experience in the maritime and technology sectors, further solidifying the company’s position as a pioneer in on-board wireless connectivity. He has spent the last 20+ years working for multinational corporations in various senior leadership positions in the maritime sector.
“Sven’s track record of strategic leadership and innovation makes him the ideal candidate to lead ScanReach as we continue to evolve and expand our reach in the maritime industry,” says Sigurd Aase, Chairman of the Board, ScanReach. “We believe that his appointment will further maintain a fresh and dynamic perspective to our operations.”
In his role as CEO, Brooks will focus on expanding ScanReach’s global presence, developing new partnerships, and driving technological innovation to meet the evolving needs of the maritime industry.
Geir Utne Berg (pictured, right) is appointed as Chief Finance Officer (CFO). Geir knows ScanReach well from being a member of the Board of Directors.
“Geir’s exceptional leadership and extensive experience will undoubtedly strengthen our financial position and propel us towards our strategic goals,” says Brooks. “We look forward to his invaluable contributions as we navigate the exciting opportunities ahead.”
CJC appoints managing associates to take growth forward
Campbell Johnston Clark (CJC) has announced that Richard Murray is re-joining its London-based team as a Managing Associate. The announcement coincides with the appointment of nine CJC senior associates to the newly created company role of managing associate.
Specialising in shipbuilding disputes, marine insurance, and admiralty proceedings, Richard Murray (pictured) is a seasoned litigator in London's High Court and LMAA Arbitration and has been directly involved in several landmark decisions. He mainly acts for (re)insurers of hull and machinery, liability, cargo and war risks in the UK and European markets. He re-joins CJC following a two-year period working with other maritime law firms.
Murray also advises on complex disputes arising under contracts of carriage, shipbuilding contracts and insurance policies, while his experience extends to limitation, salvage, towage, general average, piracy, collisions and wrecks. Beyond litigation, he has assisted on vessel sale & purchase/(re)financing and advised on drafting transactional documents and policy wordings.
Coinciding with the announcement, CJC has said that the following have also been appointed managing associates: Amy Lindemann, Helen McCormick, Kate Law, Richard Guy, Richard Hickey, William Stansfield and Danyel White (London office); Neil Jackson (Newcastle); and Andrew Shannon (Singapore).
“We are delighted to welcome Richard back to CJC and look forward to continuing to work together with him and the rest of the team,” said Maria Borg-Barthet, Director, CJC. “We are also pleased to acknowledge the responsibilities that key members of the CJC team have already assumed as we continue to pursue our ambitions for growth by developing great talent and retaining it.”
Consistently ranked as one of the ‘Legal 500’ for ligation, Campbell Johnston Clark also recently secured a separate Legal 500 ranking for its transactional work in Shipping Finance.
A triumph of endurance and teamwork at Adventure Race Japan 2023 raises $1.3m for seafarer welfare
The Mission to Seafarers (MtS) has successfully completed its Adventure Race Japan (ARJ) fundraising challenge, raising a total of US$1.3m through team registrations, corporate sponsorships, and other fundraising efforts. Due to the incredible response and support shown from the maritime industry, MtS has exceeded its fundraising target to support seafarers' welfare.
The highly anticipated Adventure Race Japan (ARJ) challenge took place from 18-21 May 2023 on the Izu Peninsula, Japan, and witnessed an exhilarating display of determination and camaraderie as 64 teams from 19 countries fearlessly tackled the ‘Green Dragon’ and ‘Black Dragon’ races in support of The Mission to Seafarers. The event spanned three action-packed days, testing the resilience of participants amidst challenging weather conditions and mountainous terrain, while raising funds for seafarers' welfare.
ARJ Day 1 kicked off with a check-in and event briefing, led by MtS Secretary General Andrew Wright, welcoming teams ready to take on the Green Dragon and Black Dragon races the following day. Representatives from Gold Sponsors, Swire Shipping & Swire Bulk, and Welcome Dinner Sponsor, Womar Logistics Pte Ltd, also addressed the participants. Rules, safety measures and event expectations were explained, followed by a delightful buffet dinner fostering valuable networking opportunities.
ARJ Day 2, also known as Race Day 1, began with an early start for teams as they departed for the start line, accompanied by an uplifting song from Sakura Kuma, CEO of APM Terminals Japan. Despite the rain forecast, team spirits remained high, and the excitement continued throughout the day. Along the route, teams faced two mini-challenges: a squat challenge and a creativity challenge using natural resources. The day ended with a dinner sponsored by Halfway Dinner Sponsors, Abo Shoten, where participants were treated to presentation videos and speeches by Gold sponsors APM Terminals, Ocean Network Express and Arrow Shipbroking Group, as well as MtS Regional Director in East Asia, Stephen Miller and ARJ committee member Ken Hasui of Norstar Shipping.
ARJ Day 3 marked the final day with teams tackling a shorter yet more challenging route, featuring steeper inclines. Due to heavy winds, the planned stand-up paddleboarding challenge was cancelled, but teams remained undeterred. The grand finale of Adventure Race Japan 2023 was marked by the Awards Ceremony, where teams were recognised for their outstanding performance in various categories, including overall winners, fastest completion times, highest fundraisers, and winners of the squat challenge and creativity challenge.
The Awards Ceremony and Gala Dinner, hosted by Christopher Eve, Managing Director at Informa Markets Japan, Chairman of MtS Japan and ARJ Committee member, welcomed distinguished guests, including President & CEO Takeshi Hashimoto of MOL and President Yukito Higaki of Shoei Kisen Kaisha Ltd., both Gold sponsors, who presented prizes. Notably, President Hashimoto shared his ambition to achieving both the fastest and highest fundraising team at the next event. The night ended with a Gala Dinner, sponsored by the UKP&I Club, while Norstar Shipping sponsored the evening’s drinks.
Adventure Race Japan 2023 raised an incredible total of US$1.3 million, garnering support from prominent Gold sponsors, including Swire Shipping Pte Ltd, Swire Bulk, APM Terminals Japan, Arrow Sale & Purchase (UK) Ltd, Shoei Kisen Kaisha Ltd, Fleet Management Limited, Mitsui O.S.K Lines, and Ocean Network Express. The generous contributions and participation of 192 individuals from 19 countries showcased the global unity and commitment to this noble cause.
The funds raised through Adventure Race Japan will be used to support several key areas of The Mission to Seafarers' operations. A significant portion will fund MtS’s 'Emerging Port Strategy 2022-2026', which aims to provide a strategic approach to new and existing operations in Asia, and globally.
Examples of where the ARJ funds will be allocated include funding more sustainable practices to reduce the environmental impact of MtS activities; the creation of more green spaces for seafarers at Seafarers Centres; and the establishment of Key Welfare Hubs in Singapore and Rotterdam to offer an enhanced service to seafarers on key shipping routes with a considerable through-put of seafarers.
The Mission to Seafarers’ successful Family Support Network in the Philippines and India will receive support, helping them to continue providing counselling, financial guidance, basic social and welfare services, transportation services, and training for seafarers and their families. More information can be found in the Mission’s Statement of Intent on how the money raised will be spent.
Jan Webber, MtS Director of Development, said on behalf of the organising committee: "Adventure Race Japan 2023 exemplifies the power of collaboration and perseverance. It brings together diverse cultures and styles to champion the welfare of seafarers, a cause we hold dear. This event proved to be the most ambitious and successful event organised by a maritime welfare charity and certainly within the history of The Mission to Seafarers. Overcoming various challenges, the organising committee brought together diverse cultures and styles, uniting the international maritime community and the Japanese shipping industry in their shared commitment to seafarers' welfare.”
Revd. Canon Andrew Wright, Secretary General, The Mission to Seafarers, said: “The Mission to Seafarers works to provide that for crew, and their families, all over the world. The event has been incredibly successful, both in terms of funds raised, and in terms of the building of new friendships and partnerships. My thanks go to all who took part, to all our magnificent sponsors and to all which have played a part in the inspiration and organisation of something so complex. The outcomes have surpassed all that we might have hoped.”
The ARJ organising committee included Tom Bonehill and Ken Hasui from Norstar, James Woodrow from Finlays, Sakura Kuma from APM Terminals, Chris Eve from Informa and MtS Japan Chairman, Maki Yoshida from Star Marine, Jan Webber, and Krishna Machado-Denne from MtS IHQ.
The event showcased a diverse participation from 19 countries, including 60 individuals from Japan-based companies and 57 from Singapore, making up a total of 192 athletes and 234 in attendance. Participants included 37 women and 155 men with ages ranging from 22 to 65, with notable participation from 13 individuals aged 60 and over.
Adventure Race Japan 2023 concluded as an extraordinary achievement, demonstrating the solidarity and commitment of the international maritime community and the Japanese shipping industry to seafarers' well-being. The Mission to Seafarers is profoundly grateful to all participants, sponsors, and supporters who contributed to raising over US$1.3 million, with $900,000 allocated to front-line work. This remarkable success ensures the organisation's continued efforts to provide vital assistance and support to seafarers worldwide.
Green Dragon Race overall winner (with the highest fundraising amount and fastest completion time) was BW Hikers, while the Black Dragon Race overall winner (with the highest fundraising amount and fastest completion time) was BSM Global.
Windward launches Shipment Analytics Dashboard to optimize supply chain decision making and exception management
Maritime AI™ company Windward has announced the launch of its Shipment Analytics Dashboard. The new dashboard, now available as part of Windward’s Ocean Freight Visibility (OFV) solution, showcases statistics and analytics about customer shipment and carrier performance to provide them with a holistic assessment of past and current shipments, with additional insights creating a feedback loop between shipment execution and freight procurement to help improve and optimize business decisions.
Lack of data and visibility is a large contributor to supply chain challenges and delays, not only between entities but also within individual organizations, causing reduced efficiency, increased operational costs, inaccurate forecasting, and poor customer experience.
Windward’s Shipment Analytics Dashboard provides businesses with individualized analytics on past and current shipments including Port of Discharge (POD), changes per carrier, carrier delays, ETA changes, number of transshipped containers, and active shipments at risk of delay.
Windward’s unique data sets and Maritime AI insights are constantly being used by customers who build their own dashboards using Windward’s API Insight lab. The insights are integrated directly into customer workflows via API to support business decisions across departments ranging from procurement, operations, negotiations, inventory management, customer success, and more. Windward’s Maritime AI insights, powered by billions of data points and advanced behavioral models enable better business processes, thus increasing efficiency and ROI.
“Data is a vital element of any decision-making process, but when implemented directly into the various workflows across departments, it has the power to drastically improve efficiency and processes for the entire organization,” said Ami Daniel (pictured), CEO and Co-Founder of Windward.
“Windward’s mission is to empower supply chain stakeholders to make informed decisions in order to increase efficiency and decrease costs of their shipping operations. Our new Shipping Analytics Dashboard is a valuable tool that allows them to easily deep dive into their own data and accomplish their goals.
Windward’s Shipment Analytic Dashboard is an added capability to the company’s Ocean Freight Visibility (OFV) solution which utilizes data aggregated from more than 120 carriers, 1,400+ ports and terminals, 5,500 container vessels, sailing schedules, meteorological data, and location and AIS data. The solution provides accurate ETA predictions and real-time visibility into container and vessel journeys allowing users to better predict, plan, and proactively mitigate supply chain risks.
Balaena celebrates one-year anniversary of Gibdock Dockyard ownership in Gibraltar
Balaena, a leading maritime engineering solutions provider, has marked its first anniversary as owner of the renowned Gibdock dockyard in Gibraltar by renewing its commitment to growth.
Since assuming ownership of Gibdock, Balaena has implemented a comprehensive revitalisation plan, focusing on enhancing operational efficiency, expanding service capabilities, and fostering collaboration with key stakeholders. Its strategic commitment has consolidated Gibdock’s position as a preferred destination for vessel maintenance, repair, and refurbishment in the Mediterranean region.
Over the past year, Balaena has made substantial investments in infrastructure, health and safety procedures and technology at the dockyard. These developments have not only elevated the dockyard's capabilities but have also enabled the completion of more extensive and complex projects. With a strong emphasis on safety, sustainability, and quality, Balaena has successfully delivered numerous projects, reconfirming Gibdock’s reputation for excellence in the maritime industry.
"Balaena is proud to commemorate one year of ownership of Gibdock. This milestone marks our unwavering commitment to providing world-class maritime solutions and driving the growth of the Gibraltar maritime industry," said CEO Simon Gillett, Balaena. "We are grateful for the support and trust placed in us by our valued clients, partners, and the local community. Together, we will continue to shape the future of Gibdock as a premier destination for vessel maintenance and repair."
Balaena remains dedicated to further enhancing the dockyard's capabilities and expanding its service offerings, added Gillett, by focusing on strengthening strategic partnerships, attracting new clients, and fostering sustainable growth.
In addition to the physical improvements, Balaena will also prioritise the development of its workforce. Through comprehensive training programs and skill enhancement initiatives, the dockyard's talented team will continue to be equipped with the necessary expertise to handle a wide range of vessel types, including naval vessels, offshore structures, and commercial ships.
Container spot rates up nearly a third on pre-pandemic levels
Container spot rates have fallen 70-80% since the beginning of the year but they remain nearly a third (32%) up on May 2019 pre-pandemic levels, points out BIMCO in a latest analysis.
The spot rate increase comes despite a worsening of the supply/demand balance. During the last four years, the container fleet has grown 16.9% in size and ended April 2023 at 26.2 million TEU, 3.8 million TEU larger than in April 2019, while Far East export volumes in Q1 2023 were only 2.1% higher than Q1 2019.
“The average sailing speed of container ships in April 2023 was 3.4% lower than in April 2019. This has limited the supply that the fleet can deliver. However, the total available fleet supply has still significantly outgrown Far East export volumes,” says Niels Rasmussen, Chief Shipping Analyst at BIMCO.
Despite this, the average spot rates for Shanghai exports and average rates for China exports remain significantly up vs. 2019. Recently, liner operators even appear to have been able to stem the freight rate slide and achieved some level of stability, he points out.
Idle ships currently add up to about 90,000 TEU more than four years ago, but this cannot explain the higher rates or how liner operators have been able to stabilise freight rates.
Despite overall supply/demand developments, liner operators must have become more efficient at matching capacity to cargo demand and/or a newfound freight rate discipline has emerged with each liner operator.
“No matter the underlying reason, we can conclude that despite a 70-80% fall in freight rates, and a worsening of the supply/demand balance, liner operators have so far been quite successful in keeping rates higher than pre-pandemic levels,” says Rasmussen.
Nikolaus H. Schües elected BIMCO President
BIMCO, the world’s largest shipping association, has elected Nikolaus H. Schües, CEO and owner of Reederei F. Laeisz, as President at the organisation’s general meeting in Hong Kong on Thursday 25 May 2023.
Nikolaus H. Schües takes over as the 46th President of BIMCO and the first German national holding the position since 2011. He takes over from Sabrina Chao of Wah Kwong Maritime Transport Holdings Limited, who has completed her two-year term.
“I am honoured to be elected President of an organisation that represents over 60 percent of the world’s tonnage at a time when the task of decarbonising our industry is becoming increasingly urgent,” says Schües.
“One of my key priorities over the next two years is for BIMCO to be a strong force within the area of digitalisation and optimisation of shipping. I believe it is crucial that we focus on the solutions that can help us advance today, and not fall into the trap of focusing exclusively on the right fuels of tomorrow. Our industry has digital solutions ready to go, which can cut our carbon footprint now. I see tremendous potential in helping the industry implement such solutions and making shipping greener in the process,” Schües says.
Nikolaus H. Schües joined Reederei F. Laeisz, which celebrates its 200th anniversary in 2024, in 1993. He is a member of the Presidential Committee of the German Shipowners Association, Deputy Chairman of the UK P&I Club, Member of the Norwegian Hull Club Committee, and Member of the Board of Directors of the Schutzverein Deutscher Rheder.
“The shipping industry is trusted to move about 90 percent of world trade, and one of BIMCO’s most crucial roles is to support the industry, so we can decarbonise without disruption to global trade,” says Schües.
BIMCO Presidents serve a two-year term. To ensure organisational continuity, the President Designate sits on the Board for two years before being put up for election as President. The outgoing President remains on the Board for an additional two-year term as Immediate Past President after which Past Presidents are ex-officio Board members.
Schües takes over after a two-year period as President Designate. At the general meeting, Paul Pathy of Fednav International Ltd, Canada, was elected as President Designate.
Ian Duthie joins the Britannia Group in the US
The Britannia Group and its US regional hub office, TR(B) Americas, announce the appointment of Ian Duthie as Commercial Director (Americas). Ian joined TR(B) Americas in May 2023. Based at its office in the Rockefeller Center, New York, he will be focussed on business development across the Americas. Ian has extensive insurance and business development experience having had a long career working for shipowners, brokers and mutual Clubs.
TR(B) Americas is led by Director, Mike Unger, and was established in January of this year following the acquisition of its former exclusive correspondent, B Americas P&I LLC, by Tindall Riley & Co. Ltd./the Managers of Britannia P&I. TR(B) Americas is now a six-strong team dedicated to providing exceptional service to Britannia Group Members in the region and with the aim of facilitating the growth of the Club’s membership base in North America which already accounts for approximately 5% of its entered owned tonnage.
“It’s an honour to join the Britannia Group and their office in New York and to help support their business development objectives. TR(B) Americas has assembled an exceptionally experienced team and we are well positioned to accelerate disciplined growth in the region”, says Ian Duthie, Commercial Director (Americas), TR(B) Americas.
“Ian’s appointment reinforces Britannia Group’s commitment to the local market and our ambitions to develop and expand the Club’s presence throughout the region”, says Andrew Cutler, CEO of the Britannia Group.
THB Verhoef joins Green Award as incentive provider
THB Verhoef, a market leader in the field of components and spare parts, is joining Green Award as incentive provider. The company will support the Green Award programmes for seagoing as well as inland navigation.
The special Green Award plaque was presented to THB Verhoef’s chief executive officer Mr. Adriaan Verhoef and director marketing & business development Mr. Jeroen Kortsmit during a ceremony at the Maritime Industry exhibition in Gorinchem, the Netherlands. As incentive provider THB Verhoef gives a four percent discount on all orders for diesel and gas engine components to all Green Award certified companies, and ships (seagoing and inland navigation).
For European main Original Equipment Manufacturers THB Verhoef is the preferred destination as the global market leader in the field of components and spare parts deliveries. THB Verhoef is a premier stockist, official agent, and service provider of top-quality key components for nearly 90 different types of medium-speed diesel and gas engines.
“Whether you're looking for replacement, parts or upgrades, our experienced team can help you find the right solution to meet your specific needs,” says Mr. Verhoef. “We are proud to be the official agent and major stockholder for the best European main brands in the industry.’’
Green Award’s executive director Jan Fransen is proud to have THB Verhoef onboard as incentive provider. “As Green Award we strive to the highest standards in environmental performance and safety in shipping,” he says. “Working together with a company like THB Verhoef is an added value as their services involve technical expertise to improve safety of shipping.”
THB Verhoef has a rich history of providing high-quality products and services to our customers. Founded nearly 50 years ago, the company has grown to a leader in marine engine component industry. THB Verhoef is headquartered in Zwijndrecht, the Netherlands, close to the port of Rotterdam, and offer world-wide delivery services.
The Green Award Foundation is a world-wide recognized certification organisation for ships and their operators that exceed the applicable standards in the field of safety, quality, and environmental performance.
Daphne Technology to advance carbon capture for maritime use
Daphne Technology has obtained a license from Saudi Aramco Technologies Company, a wholly owned subsidiary of Aramco, to further develop and commercialise its mobile carbon capture (MCC) technology.
Aramco's advanced MCC technology has the potential to contribute to the reduction of CO2 emissions from the maritime transport and other hard-to-decarbonise sectors. Carbon capture technology is an important tool in addressing carbon abatement, and Daphne Technology is at the forefront of developing greenhouse gas reduction solutions for hard-to-abate sectors including the deep-sea maritime sector.
So far, Aramco has demonstrated the MCC technology in passenger road transportation and, more recently, in a heavy-duty truck with up to 40% carbon capture. The next step is for Daphne Technology to explore ways to adapt and integrate the technology with its proprietary solutions for deployment on large commercial vessels.
Dr Mario Michan (pictured), Founder and CEO of Daphne Technology, commented: "We are thrilled to partner with Saudi Aramco Technologies Company and commercialise their innovative MCC technology for the maritime industry. It is a perfect fit with our strategy, which is to develop and integrate innovative technology to help our clients meet their decarbonisation goals. The MCC technology complements our proprietary methane slip reduction (SlipPureTM) and desulphurisation (SulPure®) systems, creating decarbonisation packages for current and future infrastructure and assets."
Adullah S. Dhuwaihi, CEO of Saudi Aramco Technologies Company, said: "Emissions from the shipping industry are particularly hard to abate, and there are limited low-carbon alternatives that are commercially available today. Our MCC technology is a new and innovative solution that aims to support the decarbonisation of the maritime sector, and we are pleased to partner with Daphne Technology.”
Daphne Technology is a Swiss climate deep tech company that challenges conventional thinking by developing and integrating technology that eliminates GHG and toxic emissions. CEO Dr. Mario Michan founded Daphne in 2017. The company is based in Switzerland, with a subsidiary in Norway.
Saudi Aramco Technologies Company is a wholly owned subsidiary of Aramco, a leading global integrated energy and chemicals company driven by the core belief that energy is opportunity. Saudi Aramco Technologies serves as the research arm of Aramco, specialising in developing and providing downstream technology solutions in the refining and petrochemical area.
WFW advises NYK on long-term charter contracts for four LNG carriers
Watson Farley & Williams (WFW) has advised NYK Nippon Yusen Kabushiki Kaisha (NYK) on the execution of long-term charter contracts with major German energy company EnBW Energie Baden-Wűrttemberg AG for four LNG carriers.
The four vessels will be constructed at HD Hyundai Heavy Industries Co. Ltd. in South Korea and will be completed in sequence during 2027. The vessels will be constructed with 174,000 cubic metre capacity membrane-type tanks that will be made from advanced insulating materials to reduce the vaporisation rate. The vessels themselves will be propelled by fuel-efficient dual-fuel, slow-speed two-stroke marine engines, and will also feature shaft generators and air lubrication systems rendering the ships more environmentally friendly than conventional LNG carriers.
The cross-border WFW Maritime team that advised NYK was led by London Partner Joe McGladdery who primarily advised on chartering matters. He worked closely with Partner Robert Platt who handled shipbuilding matters, and Partners Patrick Kirkby and Richard Stephens who advised on the financial and tax aspects of the deal respectively. Paris Corporate Partner Pascal Roux and Senior Associate Anne-Kelly d’Amécourt advised on French corporate structuring issues and Hamburg Managing Associate Peter Graß advised on German law matters.
Joe commented: “We are delighted to have once again advised NYK on such an important project the success of which highlights the strength and depth of our maritime expertise across multiple key service lines in London, Paris and Hamburg.”
Robert added: “We highly value the ability to support our clients through key projects of this nature and we wish NYK every success with these additions to their fleet.”
Australia & New Zealand sign contract with Inmarsat for new SouthPAN satellite service
Every major industry across Australia and New Zealand, from transport and construction to resources and agriculture, will gain positioning and navigation benefits from the Southern Positioning Augmentation Network’s (SouthPAN) new satellite service.
With the signing of a AUD$187.4m (USD122m) contract with Inmarsat Australia for the new service on one of Inmarsat’s three new I-8 satellites, SouthPAN partners Geoscience Australia and Toitū te Whenua Land Information New Zealand are one step closer to world-class satellite positioning for the southern hemisphere.
SouthPAN provides accurate, reliable and instant positioning services across all of Australia and New Zealand’s land and maritime zones without the need for mobile phone or internet coverage. It will improve positioning accuracy to as little as 10 centimetres. Early Open Services have been available since September 2022.
Signals will begin broadcasting services from the Inmarsat-8 satellite which will cover the Asia Pacific region, commencing from 2027. The satellites will provide redundancy and resilience in SouthPAN to ensure continuous broadcast of signals, enabling the development and use of critical applications relying on its highly accurate positioning. An additional satellite service will also be procured.
These satellites will also be a critical part of a safety-of-life-certified SouthPAN for aviation and other applications, scheduled for 2028. These services will be accessed or used by end users engaged in operations where life could be at risk, like landing an aircraft.
Todd McDonell, President, Inmarsat Global Government, said “SouthPAN represents extraordinary potential for the region. It can save lives by enabling precision safety tracking, help farmers improve productivity through automated device tracking, or even support transport management systems of the future. We have a long history providing services for Governments in the moments that matter most, and we are delighted that our Inmarsat-8 satellites will continue that legacy well into the 2040’s.”
ICS calls on governments to set the course towards a net zero future in July
The International Chamber of Shipping (ICS) has submitted what it describes as detailed, well-thought-through proposals to the next round of IMO negotiations. These support the development of a Global Fuel Standard as a technical measure to reduce the Greenhouse Gas (GHG) intensity of marine fuels, targeting 5% by 2030 and with an aggressive tightening of this standard after 2030, developed with industry experts to ensure the standard will work in practice.
Simon Bennett (pictured), ICS Deputy Secretary General, comments: “A fuel standard will not succeed on its own. It has to be supported by a radical economic measure, which will operate across the world to incentivise the production and uptake of the low and zero GHG fuels necessary to accelerate transition to a net zero destination.”
“Shipping remains the most carbon efficient way to transport the goods that we all use, with about 90% of world trade carried by sea. However, being efficient does not mean we must not work to address the 3% shipping contributes to global carbon emissions. We all have a role to play in decarbonisation.”
ICS, and its members, are optimistic that governments will set a net zero target which sends a signal to energy producers and marine fuel suppliers, charting the direction of travel. ICS argues however that far more critical are the decisions that governments must now urgently take about the measures which will enable the end destination.
Simon Bennett continues: “Shipowners are willing to pay into a multi-billion dollar global fund, which if structured correctly, will reduce the cost gap between conventional fuel oil and the much more expensive zero GHG fuels as they begin to become available. The ICS “Fund and Reward” mechanism is an equitable measure that will also ensure developing countries can use some of the billions of dollars that would be generated each year, from shipowner contributions, to create the infrastructure of the future while incentivising first movers to act.
“A growing number of governments recognise the merit of these industry proposals, but we need to ensure that those developing nations that are still concerned about the impact on their economies, of the small cost additional to marine fuel, can recognise the opportunity that this IMO fund will unlock.”
“To produce the very large amounts of low and zero GHG fuels, such as methanol, ammonia and hydrogen, sustainable biofuels and synthetic fuels (as well as developing new technologies such ascarbon capture) is going to take real world regulation and meaningful incentives, not just the adoption of a new GHG reduction target. Setting a direction of travel is important, but without the tools to get there it becomes meaningless aspiration.”
Governments have an opportunity this July to come together and chart a clear unambiguous course to a net zero future. Industry has provided the tools needed to reach this goal. A mandatory fuel standard with a “Fund and Reward” measure will unlock opportunity for all and ensure we reach our destination. A journey starts with a single step.”
VertomCory acquires Monson Agencies to expand global reach
Anglo Dutch logistics and shipping agency group VertomCory Group has announced the acquisition of Monson Agencies from Five V Capital, creating a market leading shipping agency group. The acquisition of Monson Agencies will accelerate VertomCory’s strategy of international expansion.
Established in 1981, Monson Agencies is Australia's leading technology-enabled shipping agency. The company specialises in dry and wet-bulk commodities, servicing some of the world's largest industrial producers and traders and covering some of the fastest growing bulk export and import markets in the world. This includes Australia, New Zealand, Singapore, China, Malaysia, Thailand, Indonesia, Vietnam, Philippines, Myanmar, South Korea, and Japan.
Five V Capital invested alongside founder Dale Monson to strengthen and expand Monson Agencies’ core offering into new regions and invest in its proprietary agency ERP technology. Through the purchase, VertomCory is expanding its global shipping presence into the Asia Pacific region from its stronghold in Europe and will integrate Monson with its business and retain the brand.
The Executive Team of VertomCory said the deal established VertomCory as a market leader in shipping agency. “We will now be able to compete on size-for-size basis with the world’s largest shipping agencies given our greater global presence and expansion into the Asia Pacific,” the executive team said. “The alignment of values and reputation between our organisations makes Monson an excellent fit and will establish VertomCory as number one in the eyes of clients.
“We will offer our customers expanded global shipping services, superior technology and decades of experience. Monson was the final piece of the puzzle to enable VertomCory become a global player in port agency, and we are grateful for Monson's and Five V ‘s decision to sell the business back to the shipping industry.”
“Our priority is to keep operating Monson in its current form, retaining the existing leadership team, staff and brand – and personal service and family style reputation – while integrating innovative systems to offer customers superior data and service. We applaud the significant contribution of Monson’s management team in extending its reach into Singapore and Asia more broadly.”
Justin England, Five V Capital, said the transaction made “clear commercial sense given VertomCory’s strong shipping history, alignment of culture, capabilities and dedication to customer experience. The acquisition by VertomCory will establish a key link between the Northern and Southern Hemispheres, enhancing client service and providing incredible opportunities for the staff and clients of Monson Agencies.”
Rob Davis, Chief Executive Officer of Monson, also welcomed the transaction, saying: “We are excited to join VertomCory. This is a great step forward for Monson Agencies to be joining a shipping company with such strong standing in Europe. I look forward to working with the new owners and expanding our capacity across global shipping ports, with the investment, scale and experience that VertomCory brings.
“Our clients will be delighted too, and they will continue to enjoy high-quality service and also gain access to a wider set of expertise, capabilities and geographic coverage that VertomCory brings,” he said.
Dale Monson, who retained a minority interest after Five V invested in the business, said he was delighted with the transaction. “As the industry consolidates, I welcome VertomCory as a tremendous custodian of the business given it is an established leading operator which will continue to drive Monson Agencies’ growth.”
Marine Projects Scotland awarded £1m contract to revive TS Queen Mary
The iconic ship TS Queen Mary has been moved from her current berth at Glasgow Science Centre to Govan Graving Docks, the first ship to be berthed at this historic facility in almost 40 years. Marine Projects Scotland Ltd has been awarded the contract to project manage and undertake the first phase of major restoration and repair work on the vessel.
In her heyday, the Dumbarton-built ship, launched in 1933, once carried King George VI, Queen Elizabeth (the Queen Mother) and Mrs Eleanor Roosevelt, and was known as Britain’s finest pleasure steamer. During World War II, she became a vital lifeline for Scotland’s island communities, carrying around 13,000 passengers each week.
“Friends of TS Queen Mary” brought her back to the Clyde in 2016. Since then, she has been berthed at Pacific Quay, next to the Science Centre. In 1996, she was listed on the United Kingdom’s official historical ships register and is now the last of her kind in the world.
The year-long restoration project will help preserve the ship and will also create much-needed employment opportunities for up to 12 people, bringing associated community benefits to the Govan area.
The scope of the work will be extensive and structurally complex, starting with a 3D laser map scan of the ship’s structure, prior to the removal of the two funnels and wheelhouse, which will be completely rebuilt.
The ship will be encapsulated for the removal of the windows and teak boat and promenade decks, which will receive underdeck stiffening, before being replaced with completely new steel decks, necessary to bring her back into active service.
All of this work will meet Classification Society (Bureau Veritas) and MCA regulations, ensuring that the ship, upon completion, will be able to return to active service.
Peter Breslin, Managing Director of Marine Projects Scotland Ltd said: “It is a tremendous honour to be awarded the TS Queen Mary restoration contract. In the coming year, we will devote ourselves tirelessly to safeguarding, protecting and reviving this exquisite and historically significant vessel.
“Securing this contract is testament to our commitment and confidence in the business viability of Govan Drydock. As a fully operational ship repair and maintenance facility, it has the capacity to generate employment opportunities and contribution to the ongoing reinvigoration of the Clyde waterfront.”
Iain Sim, Chairman of Friends of TS Queen Mary, added: “The Trustees are delighted that this major contract will commence in TS Queen Mary’s 90th anniversary year. It will be truly transformative for this vital part of our maritime heritage. This major structural work will help breathe new life into TS Queen Mary and ensure she will be in the best possible condition for years to come.”
Harry O’Donnell, Chairman, New City Vision who own the site, said: “We are delighted that such a historic ship as the TS Queen Mary will be restored at our site in Govan. It is testament to the hard work that Marine Projects Scotland Ltd has done to date on Dock No1 that it is now in a position to be brought back into working order for the first time in more than 40 years.
“The restoration of Dock No1 is an important part of our wider vision to bring the Govan Graving Docks back into use, alongside the creation of new homes, commercial use and thriving new community spaces including a new riverside park and active travel routes through the site, all of which are currently undergoing extensive consultation.”
BIMCO launches industry film calling for safe ship recycling
BIMCO has launched its fourth industry film, calling for the urgent adoption of the Hong Kong International Convention for the safe and Environmentally Sound Recycling of Ships, and for ship owners to only choose yards that live up to the convention.
The film, ‘Ship Recycling: Time for Change’, is partly filmed at ship recycling yards in Alang, India, one of the largest ship recycling nations in the world together with Bangladesh. The film aims to raise awareness among global regulators, ship owners, and the public of the vast potential for the ship recycling industry to add to a sustainable global circular economy if done safely.
“The numbers speak for themselves. The raw scrap steel from ship recycling feeds around 350 re-rolling mills that supply approximately 50% of the annual steel consumption in Bangladesh alone, and the industry creates thousands of jobs for people providing for their families,” said BIMCO Secretary General and CEO, David Loosley (pictured).
“But ship recycling has for too long been unsafe for workers and the environment at yards that do not live up to the standards of the Hong Kong Convention. It is time for change and for ship recycling to be done the right way,” Loosley says.
During a visit to Chattogram and Dhaka in Bangladesh in early May by BIMCO and other industry organisations to discuss the benefits of ratifying the Hong Kong Convention, Bangladesh confirmed its commitment to ratify this year, allowing the convention to enter into force.
According to BIMCO estimates, more than 15,000 ships will be recycled over the next ten years, a more than 100% rise compared with the last ten years, partly due to stricter greenhouse gas regulations facing the shipping industry.
“This year, there is a window of opportunity for the Hong Kong Convention to enter into force which could positively change the face of the recycling industry forever - we must take it,” says Loosley.
The film can be viewed and downloaded on the BIMCO website.
MIS Marine continues global expansion with new Houston office and senior US hire
Marine assurance technology expert MIS Marine has announced the opening of its first US office in Houston, which bolsters its presence in the Americas.
Industry veteran Robert Kessler (pictured) will head up the US office, reporting to Dominic McKnight Hardy, Managing Director at MIS Marine. Robert has more than 35 years’ experience in shipping and port call optimisation, having previously worked at Voyager Portal, PortVision, and ABS. Robert will lead the further development and global roll-out of MIS Marine’s port and terminal product line, focusing on North America by building on the company’s success in the region.
MIS Marine has secured 20 new clients since 2020, more than 50% of whom are based in Texas, including Philips 66 and Motiva.
The impact of increasingly complex sanctions and the evolving regulatory landscape has driven demand for marine assurance that can provide real-time updates and support in managing and analysing the vast volumes of data that have become part of daily operations.
Following the increase in Gulf Coast LNG exports, MIS Marine has also seen a renewed demand for technology that can drive operational efficiency in streamlined supply chain communication, better port operations, and advanced techniques to select the best vessel for a charter.
MIS Marine is also very active in Latin America, following the appointment of Gonzalo Mera Truffini in 2021 as Americas Executive Manager, who leads the company’s presence and customer support in the region, as well as developing relationships with key industry organisations including OCIMF and SLOM.
This month, MIS Marine has joined the OAS (Organization of American States) to support the Inter-American Committee on Ports (CIP) to support with technical advisory committees on protection and port security; waterways, inland, and cruise ports; logistics, innovation, and competitiveness, as well as sustainable port management protection.
Dominic McKnight Hardy, Managing Director at MIS Marine, said: “At this critical time for shipping, as the industry navigates sanctions, emissions reduction, and regulatory compliance, to simply 'vet' is not enough. We need a new approach and mindset – what we call Marine Assurance 2.0 - that safeguards the entire operation and offers compliance, environmental, and efficiency throughout the supply chain.
‘Opening an office in Houston is a natural extension of our global expansion and will enable us to be right next door to our existing customers and within reach of potential customers in the United States, spearheaded by Bob. As a world-leading hub in energy, Houston is a perfect fit for us."
Robert Kessler, Product Manager at MIS Marine, said: “Marine terminal operations and risk assessment for shipping is transforming, and MIS Marine is at the forefront of this change, providing innovative solutions for these complex issues. That is why I am excited to join MIS Marine and to contribute to its growth and success in North America. I am especially proud to be based in Houston, the energy capital of the world.
“I’m excited to apply my skills and expertise to optimise marine terminal operations in order to reduce emissions and increase operational efficiency for our clients in North America. There’s an incredible opportunity for growth in the region as new risks, technologies, and mindsets require a fresh approach that MIS Marine is uniquely positioned to provide.”
Osbit strengthens Netherlands offering with Dutch entity and office
Offshore wind technology company Osbit has established, and is now operating, a Netherlands business entity and office. The company has undertaken the move to further grow its local offering and capabilities for its Dutch customer base.
The newly established entity, Osbit B.V, is now operational from the business’s new Dutch office, based in Rotterdam.
To support this development, Osbit has appointed Jurgen Zijlmans (pictured, left) as General Manager – Osbit B.V, to lead business operations in the region. Jurgen has worked in the offshore equipment industry for 15 years, supporting the technical and commercial development of a variety of major offshore wind installation and handling projects, both in the UK and Netherlands.
Jurgen is joined by Osbit Engineer Sacha Aichroth (right), who joined the company in 2014 and has been instrumental in the successful delivery of a variety of projects. Sacha has relocated to Rotterdam from North East England.
Osbit’s Netherlands expansion is part of its global growth strategy and follows the opening of the company’s first US office and appointment of its first US employee Dustin Varnell, in 2022.
As a member company in offshore wind services provider Venterra Group, Osbit’s progression forms part of wider group developments in global offshore wind, which includes representation across 9 countries.
Osbit Joint Managing Director Robbie Blakeman, comments: “The Netherlands has always been a key market for us, and we’ve been developing exciting new technology for our customers in this region for many years. As a business, we are thrilled to be taking this next step to meet the growing needs of vessel and equipment operators in both the Netherlands, and wider European region.”
The creation of Osbit B.V and the opening of our first Dutch office is the latest step in ours, and Venterra Group’s overall global expansion strategy, and a natural next step to support and expand upon the work we have already been doing.”
Osbit B.V’s General Manager, Jurgen Zijlmans, adds: “The Netherlands is a huge hub for offshore development.
"By establishing an entity here, Osbit is in a fantastic position to further build upon what we are already doing - providing innovative technology to enable safe and efficient build out and maintenance of wind farms and offshore installations across the globe.
"I am very much looking forward to working with my colleague Sacha, and the wider business, as we continue to build our offering in the Netherlands.”
Alfa Laval advances fuel transition with FCM Methanol for four pioneering methanol-fuelled vessels
Alfa Laval has achieved another significant milestone in its methanol journey by winning an order for FCM Methanol (LFSS) for four mega container vessels being constructed by a Chinese shipyard. The new vessel series will have a two-stroke WinGD methanol engine and four-stroke Wärtsilä methanol engines. FCM Methanol will work for WinGD main engines and Wärtsilä auxiliary engines. Deliveries of the FCM Methanol will commence in 2024.
Alfa Laval’s methanol experience, strong service network and after-sales support, combined with close cooperation with the shipowner and the shipyard, made the company a clear choice for this project.
"We are honoured to have been selected to deliver the methanol fuel supply systems for these pioneering methanol-fuelled vessels," says Viktor Friberg, Head of Marine Separation & Fuel Supply Systems, Alfa Laval. "This project exemplifies our commitment to bringing alternative fuels into the shipping industry.
“We see close cooperation with key stakeholders, such as shipowners, shipyards, engine designers and engineering companies, as a way forward to make meaningful progress towards decarbonisation.”
Proven technology and extensive experience
Alfa Laval has been at the forefront of driving the decarbonization agenda by continuously refining its technological know-how in developing new solutions for methanol transition since 2015. The company’s proven expertise in fuel supply systems and comprehensive understanding of methanol as marine fuel played crucial in this project.
With mature technologies and reliable automation, the Alfa Laval FCM Methanol safely supplies methanol within the flow rate, pressure, temperature, and filtration parameters specified by the engine maker. Due to its adaptability to any engine and vessel design, it enables turnkey LFSS deliveries for easy installation.
Landmark project characterized by several firsts
The project is characterized by several firsts, demonstrating the industry's commitment to address and embrace a joint responsibility towards decarbonisation. It marks the first time that a Chinese shipowner has ordered methanol-capable vessels. It is also the first time for the shipyard to build such vessels, and for WinGD to deliver engines for methanol - fuelled ships.
Furthermore, Alfa Laval will provide a customized methanol fuel supply system, adapting its FCM Methanol design to the requirements of these engines for the first time, marking it a significant milestone for the company as well.
ClassNK grants Innovation Endorsement for Products & Solutions to Fleet Secure Endpoint
ClassNK has granted its Innovation Endorsement for Products & Solutions to Inmarsat’s Fleet Secure Endpoint, cybersecurity service for ships.
Fleet Secure Endpoint is part of Inmarsat’s Fleet Secure suite of vessel network protection solution, developed in partnership with Port-IT. It has functions such as anti-virus, firewall and malware detection, and enables users of the collection, analysis, and sharing of threat information. Fleet Secure Endpoint also provides protection against vulnerabilities on devices and networks that may occur onboard.
On receiving the application from JSAT MOBILE Communications Inc., a joint venture by Inmarsat and other partners, ClassNK has verified the following functions of Fleet Secure Endpoint before issuing its certificate:
- Continuous network scan for new devices
- Support for cybersecurity risk assessments
- The asset inventory management of computers on the ship network
- Protection of the ship network from cyber threats
- Prevention of access to malicious websites, 6. Control of incoming and outgoing traffic with the two-way firewall
- The training modules
- Monitoring of security threats 24/7 and alerts upon detection
- Alerts for real time response to cyber threats, 10. Removal of the cyber threat and recovery of the ship network using software
- Proposal of improvement plans for the cybersecurity, and issued a certificate to the company.
ACUA Ocean and HydroSurv announce intention to merge
ACUA Ocean and HydroSurv, two UK-based companies specialising in maritime autonomous systems, have announced their intention to merge, combining extensive expertise in the development and operation of Uncrewed Surface Vessels (USVs) and associated technologies for marine surveying and surveillance.
The new company, to be named Blue Ocean Autonomy, will deliver turnkey solutions across a broad spectrum of capabilities, covering the inland, nearshore and offshore sectors.
David Hull, Founder and CEO of HydroSurv said: “In an evolving market, customer demand is shifting towards a comprehensive solution for trusted and certified USV systems. In response to this trend, we are excited to announce the intent to merge our two companies with a shared focus on accelerating the availability of these solutions for widespread commercial use, expanding our market presence and providing a better value offer to our customers.”
Blue Ocean Autonomy’s strategy will centre around low and zero-emission vessel operations with a strong focus on sustainability. It will leverage both companies’ technologies; HydroSurv’s commercially proven electric and battery-hybrid Rapid Environmental Assessment Vessels (REAV - pictured) and ACUA Ocean’s hydrogen-powered H-USV, being developed as part of the UK Department for Transport’s flagship Clean Maritime Demonstration Competition (CMDC) programme.
The merger will deliver a broad offering of both near-shore and long-endurance vessels, from 2.8m to 13.5m, for ocean data collection, hydrographic, geophysical and environmental survey and surveillance and monitoring of critical offshore infrastructure.
Neil Tinmouth, Founder and CEO of ACUA Ocean said: “Our emphasis has always been on what is best for our customers. This merger represents a natural progression of our vision and values with a company that is a strong cultural, as well as technological, fit. The new entity will undoubtedly be greater than the sum of its parts, establishing one of the most experienced and talented teams in marine autonomy.”
Commenting on the merger, Tom Chant MBE, CEO of the Society of Maritime Industries added: “In an increasingly competitive market, this merger represents a unique opportunity for UK SMEs to make their mark on the fast-growing autonomous vessel space. We look forward to supporting their progress through their membership of SMI and the MAS Working Group.”
S5 Agency World provides agency support for launch of new methanol-powered vessels
S5 Agency World (S5) announces it has provided port agency and services to Gasum - an energy company working in the Nordic gas sector - for the first LNG bunkering of cruise vessel Chantiers de l’Atlantique at the Port of La Rochelle, France. S5 supported Gasum by ensuring all necessary paperwork for bunkering calls were completed on time to enable a smooth operation for Gasum and its clients.
S5 has been applying its gas sector expertise to provide global hub and port agency support to Gasum at LNG terminals across its company portfolio for the past two years. As the orderbook for LNG-fuelled vessels to be commissioned in the next few years reaches close to 1000, demand for LNG as a marine fuel can be expected to increase, and with it the need for well managed bunkering solutions.
S5’s expertise in the gas sector is particularly valuable to Gasum as it goes hand-in-hand with S5’s presence in more than 360 offices globally. This allows S5 to work closely with local port authorities to ensure timely approvals for Gasum’s vessel movements and port calls. Seeing a shifting demand for the fuel as the number of LNG-fuelled vessels grows, S5 has been on-hand to ensure that Gasum’s bunker calls worldwide are handled efficiently and safely.
Jason Berman, Chief Commercial Officer at S5, commented: “We are delighted to be able to support Gasum across its portfolio of LNG terminals and bunkering vessels to ensure the smooth running of every port call and bunker transfer they undertake. Our understanding of gas-fuelled and gas carrying-vessels, as well as operations at gas terminals, we will efficiently meet Gasum’s needs anywhere in the world. The application of our digital solutions and extensive knowledge ensures the LNG cargoes and bunkers are transferred safely and efficiently every time.”
S5 has been working with clients in the gas industry for nearly 20 years and has developed digital technologies to simplify the process of port calls, eliminating unnecessary complexities in the process and making it easier for operators - such as Gasum - to efficiently handle multiple calls per day.
Jakob Granqvist, Vice President, Maritime at Gasum, commented: “It is important for us to work with a knowledgeable and agile partner who fully understands the sector we work in. By building trust through this partnership, we can successfully navigate through the complex needs of our vessels and terminals. At Gasum, we are committed to taking important steps to deliver a carbon-neutral future at sea. Having a like-minded partner in S5 helps us to achieve these goals and support the wider industry to become more sustainable.”
Photo credit: Gasum
PSA acquires stake in logistics provider Sotrans Group, forming strategic partnership with ITL
PSA International has through its fully-owned subsidiary PSA Cargo Solutions Vietnam Investments Pte Ltd has acquired a strategic minority stake in SOTRANS Group (STG), also known as South Logistics Joint Stock Company, from Indo-Trans Logistics (ITL).
Established in 1975, STG is a leading logistics provider in Vietnam, well-known for providing reliable and efficient supply chain solutions. STG has three main pillars of business within the group, each held by a subsidiary company: ports/inland container depots (ICDs) and barging; freight forwarding and contract logistics; and transportation of heavy lift and project cargo.
The partnership between PSA and ITL leverages STG’s strong presence in Vietnam with its local expertise in logistics, ports, barging, and project cargo, and PSA’s global network of deepsea, rail and inland terminals, affiliated businesses in distriparks, warehouses, logistics and marine services, comprehensive suite of digital solutions as well as global expertise in end-to-end supply chain services.
Mr Tan Chong Meng, Group CEO of PSA International, said: “This latest venture into Vietnam strengthens our network in the region and is in line with our aspiration to be a global supply chain orchestrator and enabler of sustainable trade. With its strong fundamentals and robust growth potential, Vietnam is poised for further economic expansion and we are glad to be able to work with like-minded partners to broaden and deepen our involvement in the country with this latest collaboration. It reaffirms our commitment to better service cargo owners in the region through differentiated and innovative value-added supply chain services.”
Mr Ong Kim Pong, Regional CEO Southeast Asia, PSA International, added: “PSA is pleased to partner ITL, a renowned and well-established logistics service provider, as we expand our Node-to-Network strategy in Southeast Asia, with Vietnam being one of our key markets. STG serves as a Port+ differentiator and this strategic collaboration enables both companies to leverage synergies and further strengthen our position to deliver a stronger value proposition to our customers. Together, we can orchestrate resilient and sustainable supply chain solutions to meet their dynamic needs.”
Mr Zulkifli Bin Baharudin, Executive Chairman of ITL, said: “PSA’s acquisition of a strategic stake in SOTRANS represents confidence in ITL and is an opportunity for us to leverage on PSA's global network to maximise the growth potential of Vietnam's port and maritime industry.”
Mr Ben Anh, CEO of ITL, added: “ITL is very pleased to have PSA as a strategic partner with SOTRANS to develop our port and logistics to become the national champion. With this partnership with PSA, a long-established, leading port operator with strong network in the world, SOTRANS will strengthen its position and we are confident that we can provide better services and connectivity for our customers in Vietnam to the world.”
KONGSBERG successfully completes autonomous operation of coastal cargo ship as part of EU’s AUTOSHIP project
Kongsberg Maritime has successfully demonstrated a range of remote and autonomous technologies on a cargo vessel operating off the coast of Norway.
The test cruise has been named one of the most complex autonomous journeys at sea so far.
The Eidsvaag Pioner is one of the two vessels that are equipped for remote-operated and autonomous transport demonstrations for the AUTOSHIP project, which is part of Horizon 2020, an EU research programme.
Owned by the Eidsvaag shipping company, the Eidsvaag Pioner operates along the Norwegian coast and in fjord areas where it carries fish feed to ocean fish-farms.
The demonstration was carried out over 13 hours and involved the vessel completing a voyage outside the coast of Kristiansund on the northwest coast of Norway. The ship undocked from the port of Averøy, sailed to the world’s first ocean fish-farm and back to port again, a journey of about 160 nautical miles in total.
CEO of KONGSBERG, Geir Håøy, said: “This was an opportunity to show the world that remote and autonomous technologies can be successfully deployed on a general cargo vessel, carrying out a range of operational aspects of a typical voyage.
“There has been great collaboration between all partners in the AUTOSHIP project, and we have all been impressed with how the Eidsvaag Pioner performed under remote control and during autonomous sailing and docking.
“Today we have demonstrated a range of the key enabling technologies that will lead the way towards routine remote and autonomous operation in the years ahead.”
The demonstration was initiated, managed and monitored by the crew from the Kongsberg Remote Operating Centre (ROC) on land in Ålesund. It involved a mix of remote and autonomous operations during different stages of the voyage. For reasons of safety and current regulations, crew members have also been on board the ship during the test cruises.
The first part of the demonstration included automatic undocking from the quay at Averøy. The autonomous technology then took control to navigate and manoeuvre out of the harbour and further out to open sea. Here the ship navigated a route between several islands and avoided other sea traffic, before arriving at the offshore fish farm Ocean Farm 1, owned by Salmar.
Various manoeuvres were then carried out using the Dynamic Positioning (DP) system. The vessel next returned to port, again navigating open sea and congested seaways before it automatically docked again. The entire operation was monitored and occasionally controlled remotely by the shore-based captain and engineer.
During the demonstration, a number of established and new KONGSBERG technologies were deployed, and included Auto-undocking and Autodocking, Situational Awareness System, Autonomous Navigation System, Intelligent Machinery System, Connectivity & Cyber Security System, Remote Operations Centre and Dynamic Positioning. Cloud-based communication systems and advanced simulations have also been involved to test and ensure that the vessel operated safely and optimally.
AUTOSHIP is a four-year project that has received funding from the European Union’s Horizon 2020 research and innovation programme under Grant Agreement N°815012. The project runs its demonstrations in important areas in Europe where the early use of remote control and autonomy is necessary to accelerate the transition from road to greener and safer sea transport. The second AUTOSHIP demonstration will take place on 1st June and involve a cargo barge navigating part of the inland waterway network in Wintam, Belgium.
Comparative analysis of candidate mid-term GHG measures
An Expert Workshop on a ‘comparative analysis of candidate mid-term GHG reduction measures’ to further support IMO’s considerations of candidate measures to reduce greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions took place at IMO Headquarters in London on 25 and 26 May. It included technical and economic elements of the proposed candidate mid-term GHG measures and, in particular, their feasibility, their effectiveness to deliver the long-term levels of ambition of the 2023 IMO GHG Strategy and their potential impacts on Member States.
The transition to alternative fuels and technologies is one of the greatest challenges in the shipping sector. The adoption of a global regulatory framework to reduce GHG emissions with GHG reduction measures set for the short-, mid- and long-term would contribute to achieving a green energy transition of the sector.
IMO’s Marine Environment Committee (MEPC) is due to adopt a revised GHG Strategy at its 80th session in July 2023. A summary of the comments and observations made during the Expert Workshop will be submitted to MEPC 80.
In March 2022, an IMO GHG working group requested the Secretariat to organize a dedicated ad-hoc expert workshop on candidate mid-term GHG reduction measures ahead of MEPC’s 80th session (3-7 July 2023). Current proposals on the table include technical (eg fuel GHG intensity standard) and economic measures (eg carbon pricing in the form of a fuel GHG levy, reward, feebate or flat rate contribution).
In addition, the Secretariat was requested to liaise with UNCTAD, and other relevant organizations, as appropriate, and invite them to submit and present their views on the technical and economic elements, and their possible combinations, of the proposals for candidate mid-term.
The comparative analysis will facilitate further deliberations by the Intersessional Working Group on Reduction of GHG Emissions from Ships (ISWG-GHG 15) and MEPC 80 on identifying (a) candidate measure(s) to develop further as a priority under Phase III of the Organization’s work plan, as well as the scope and process of a comprehensive impact assessment.
The workshop provided an opportunity to exchange information between proponents of GHG reduction measures and experts to facilitate the identification of possible technical and economic elements as well as other commonalities in the proposed measures, which may serve as building blocks for the basket of candidate mid-term measures.
The workshop’s programme included sessions on:
• Proposals for candidate mid-term GHG reduction measures and their possible combinations
• Insights from the UNCTAD Secretariat
• Preliminary comparative analysis of technical elements of the proposals
• Preliminary comparative analysis of economic elements of the proposals
• Expert discussions to facilitate the identification of possible technical and economic elements and other commonalities which may serve as building blocks for the basket of candidate mid-term measures
It was attended by more than 380 participants from Member States and international organizations, and was moderated by the Chair of MEPC, Dr. Harry Conway (Liberia).
ONE Upgrades IBESCO Service (IBC) with Poland call
Ocean Network Express (ONE) is pleased to announce an upgrade of its IBC service where it will add a direct call to/from Gdynia to the service.
The addition of Gdynia will enhance ONE coverage within the Europe region and offer customers direct options between Poland, Scandinavia, Portugal, and Europe base ports.
The first Gdynia call is expected to take place on 16 June 2023.
The new weekly service rotation will be as follows:
Rotterdam - Leixoes – Lisbon – London Gateway Port – Rotterdam – Gdynia – Aarhus – Gothenburg – Antwerp – Rotterdam.
Future Proof Shipping: first zero-emission hydrogen-powered inland container ship
Last week the H2 Barge 1 was taken into service in Rotterdam. This zero-emission ship from Future Proof Shipping (FPS) is 110 metres long and will sail for Nike several times a week between the port of Rotterdam and BCTN’s inland terminal in Meerhout, Belgium. This is expected to result in annual greenhouse gas emission savings of 2,000 tonnes of CO2.
The Netherlands’ Minister of Infrastructure and Water Management Mark Harbers was there to present FPS founder Huib van de Grijspaarde with a special A-Zero (A0) emissions label that is only awarded to emission-free vessels. Future Proof Shipping (FPS) aims to build and operate a fleet of more than 10 zero-emission inland and shortsea vessels over the next five years.
Future Proof Shipping is a partner of Condor H2. This is a project for emission-free hydrogen-powered inland and coastal shipping. Condor H2 has more than 40 partners and was launched by a consortium, in which the Port of Rotterdam Authority participates, at the World Hydrogen Summit earlier this month. Thanks to Condor H2, it should be possible for 50 emission-free vessels to operate by 2030, achieving a total annual CO2 reduction of 100,000 tonnes.
DP World completes AED 954 million Vancouver port expansion
DP World and the Vancouver Fraser Port Authority have celebrated two historic events – the completion of the Centerm Expansion Project at DP World Vancouver, and the 100th anniversary of the port’s marine terminal operations.
These two events highlight British Columbia’s (BC) ongoing leadership in sustainable trade, technological innovation and introducing Canadian goods to new markets supported by partners such as DP World in Canada.
The 100-year anniversary marks an opportunity to celebrate the ongoing commitment of DP World employees, the ILWU (International Longshore and Warehouse Union) – with over 10,000 longshore and foremen employees having worked for DP World in BC over the past 20 years – handling over 20 million loaded TEUs. Along with its partners, DP World is making the global supply chain more resilient, establishing Canada’s leadership in sustainable trade and exporting Canadian goods to global markets.
DP World continues to support and advance the long-term growth of Canada’s ports and terminals, including the Port of Vancouver, through new technologies and commitment to innovation and sustainable trade infrastructure. As the country’s gateway to over 170 trading economies around the world, Vancouver handles one in every $3 of Canada’s trade in goods outside of North America. This enables the trade of approximately $305 billion in goods, while the port’s activities sustain 115,300 jobs, $7 billion in wages, and $11.9 billion in GDP across Canada.
Sultan Ahmed Bin Sulayem, Group Chairman and CEO of DP World, said: “The 100th anniversary of terminal operations on the west coast is a wonderful opportunity to celebrate Canada’s rich maritime and port history and look ahead to a future that includes DP World’s industry-leading technology and innovation in supply chains. It’s also a chance for us, along with our employees and partners, to celebrate a responsible, sustainable, strategic approach to managing Canada’s network of ports and terminals.”
DP World and the Vancouver Fraser Port Authority also marked the completion of the Centerm Expansion Project, an AED 954 million (CAD$350 million) award-winning project to increase throughput by 60% and position British Columbia as a leader in sustainable trade.
The newly expanded terminal can now handle 1.5 million TEUs a year, compared to 900,000 TEUs previously, while adding 15% to the terminal’s overall footprint.
Vancouver Fraser Port Authority also completed the South Shore Access Project earlier this month in partnership with the Government of Canada and with funding from the National Trade Corridors Fund. The final part of the South Shore Access Project, including upgrades to Waterfront Road and the removal of road and rail conflicts in the area to connect terminals directly to the Trans-Canada Highway are now complete.
Robin Silvester, President and CEO, Vancouver Fraser Port Authority, said: “Expanding the footprint of the Centerm container terminal and improving road and rail links in the area will increase container trade capacity and resiliency at the Port of Vancouver in the near term”.
He added: “As recent years have shown, a robust container sector is critical for Canadian exports and for reliable access to the goods Canadians depend on every day from markets around the world—and these projects represent an important piece of the puzzle when it comes to enabling Canadian trade. We'd like to thank our project partners including DP World and the federal government for their support and collaboration, as well the local community and south shore tenants for their patience and understanding during construction.”
Boudewijn Siemons to serve as interim CEO at Port of Rotterdam Authority
Boudewijn Siemons (58) will be appointed interim CEO of the Port of Rotterdam Authority effective 15 July 2023. Vivienne de Leeuw (48) will stay on as CFO, her term of office having been extended by four years.
Siemons (pictured) is currently the COO of the Port Authority and therefore responsible for infrastructure and maritime affairs. He will combine both positions until a new CEO has been appointed. Siemons will therefore take over the reins from Allard Castelein, who is stepping down as CEO this summer after nearly a decade.
Miriam Maes, chair of the Supervisory Board: ‘We are grateful that Boudewijn Siemons and Vivienne de Leeuw are both willing to serve as the Port Authority’s Executive Board for the immediate future. The process of finding a new CEO is still in progress. It will not be completed before 15 July, which is when Allard Castelein’s term of office ends. In the meantime, with the appointment of an interim CEO and the extension of the CFO’s term of office, we are safeguarding management continuity.’
Mechanical engineer Boudewijn Siemons has been COO at the Port of Rotterdam Authority since October 2020. Before then, he served as President of Royal Vopak’s Americas division. He also worked in management positions at that company in Europe, the Middle East and the United States. From 1998 to 2006, Siemons had a range of management positions at Royal VolkerWessels.
Siemons started his career in 1987 at the Royal Netherlands Navy, where he worked until 1998. He studied at the Royal Naval Institute and at Delft University of Technology.
Economist Vivienne de Leeuw has been the CFO of the Port of Rotterdam Authority since 1 July 2019. Before then, she was CFO at RTL Nederland and CFO at KPN Consumer Residential. She began her career in 1999, holding senior positions in Corporate Finance and Investor Relations at Arthur Andersen/Deloitte and Unibail-Rodamco, among others. Vivienne de Leeuw studied economics at Maastricht University.
Honourable Minister Shri Sarbananda Sonowal visits Indian Register of Shipping
Shri Sarbananda Sonowal, Union Cabinet Minister for Ports Shipping & Waterways and Minister of Ayush visited Indian Register of Shipping Head Office at Mumbai on 25th May 2023 and reviewed the work being undertaken by the organisation.
The Honourable Minister lauded the green initiatives being taken by IRS in reducing GHG emissions towards meeting IMO climate goals. He was interested in knowing the environmental impact of shipping and how IRS is supporting design and operational methodologies using advanced technologies.
During his visit, the Minister also interacted with the Rule and Research & Development team of IRS to understand various aspects of research projects. He spent time with the research team to understand topics like structural strength of marine assets, wind propulsion and the impact of underwater radiated noise on marine life.
In his address to IRS, he laid great stress on technological advancement and adoption of technology, adding a caveat that such advancement should not be at the cost of ecology and environment. He congratulated IRS on achieving global recognition and strong fleet growth and urged IRS to take a greater role in the development of maritime ecosystems in the country.
He underscored the significance of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi’s vision of Amrit Kaal which lays out a new roadmap for India in the next 25 years and emphasised that IRS had the potential to be a leading global organisation. He further stated that the role of IRS will be integral towards achieving the Maritime India Vision 2030.
He exhorted IRS employees to follow the guidance of the Prime Minister to boost physical and mental well-being and encouraged everyone to actively participate in International Yoga Day on 21st June 2023.
In his august presence, IRS and Dassault Systèmes exchanged the contract documents for IRS’ digital transformation and boosting operational efficiency.
Mr. Arun Sharma, Executive Chairman said: “IRS is honoured to host Honourable Minister Shri Sarbananda Sonowal at our Head Office. In line with the call given by the Hon’ble Minster, IRS will continue to focus on its key role in environment protection and strive to strengthen the maritime ecosystem to make India a major maritime nation.”
Ship Recycling Guide, First Edition - Providing support for safe and sustainable ship recycling
The International Chamber of Shipping (ICS) is pleased to announce that the first edition of the Ship Recycling Guide can now be pre-ordered.
Ship recycling is a crucial aspect of the shipping industry. Not only is it a legal obligation to dispose of a ship responsibly, but it also plays a significant role in the protection of the environment and the safety of workers involved in the process.
This essential new guide has been designed to equip shipowners and crew with the necessary knowledge to ensure a safe and sustainable recycling process when the ship reaches the end of its life.
It covers everything from the development and maintenance of the inventory of hazardous materials (IHM) while the ship is in service, through to preparing the ship for recycling and the sale of the ship.
With practical advice and guidance, this guide will help readers:
· Navigate the complexities of maintaining the IHM throughout the ship’s life;
· Prepare a ship for recycling; and
· Make informed decisions that benefit both operations and the environment.
Ship Recycling Guide, first edition, is priced at £130 and is available in print and e-book. Find out more and order from ICS Publications at https://publications.ics-shipping.org
ABS explores the future of shipping, regulatory developments and net-zero solutions at Hellenic National Committee Meeting
Greek shipping and maritime finance leaders joined ABS, the leading Class in Greece, to hear the latest thinking on the clean energy transition, regulatory landscape and sustainability initiatives impacting the industry at the annual ABS Hellenic National Committee Meeting.
The committee, comprised of shipowners, ship managers, charterers, Greek shipping investment bankers and brokers, heard the ABS-classed fleet has grown to 280 million gross tons and retained the number one position in global orderbook.
“Macro-economic factors and regulations are shaping the future of our industry and driving change through demand for fuels and sustainability standards,” said Christopher J. Wiernicki (pictured, left), ABS Chairman, President and CEO. “Given the strength of our long relationships here in Greece, we are able to bring together influential voices from across the value chain to really move the industry conversation forward.”
Athens-based Stamatis Fradelos, ABS Vice President, Regulatory Affairs, examined shipping’s regulatory landscape. Fradelos shared that the revision of the IMO’s Initial Greenhouse Gas Strategy will impact the intensity and timeframe of mid-term measures. He highlighted the possibility of incentives for the uptake of low and zero carbon ships through market-based measures and the GHG fuel standard. The committee also heard about potential challenges and opportunities arising from the implementation of the EU ETS and the FuelEU maritime regulation.
Guest speaker, Mark Ross, President of Chevron Shipping Company, shared perspectives on technology advancements and decarbonization projects for their fleet of LNG carriers and tankers.
Panos Koutsourakis, ABS Vice President, Global Sustainability, shared a comprehensive report detailing decarbonization programs and ABS’ advanced sustainability services. Committee members heard how biofuels will play a substantial role in the short term. However, more sustainable biofuels shall be fed into the market to cover the shipping needs long term.
“ABS’ support for the industry is important at this challenging time where we are striving to meet decarbonization goals while maintaining safe and viable operations. By bringing together this committee of leading industry figures, we are able to work together on solutions and share knowledge,” said Peter Livanos (pictured, right), Chairman of GasLog Ltd. and the ABS Hellenic National Committee Chairman.
ABS views its Committee meetings as important forums, part of an ongoing dialogue with the industry to address technical, operational and regulatory challenges.
Eni and RINA partner to accelerate energy transition and maritime decarbonisation
International inspection, certification and engineering consultancy company RINA has signed an agreement with Rome-headquartered global energy major Eni to jointly develop initiatives that can contribute to the energy transition and decarbonisation of their respective operations. In particular they will focus on maritime transport, where RINA and Eni can benefit from each other's expertise.
Specifically, the agreement focuses on the use of HVO (Hydrogenated Vegetable Oil) biofuel produced by Eni in its Venice and Gela bio-refineries, as well as of other energy carriers such as ‘blue’ or ‘green’ hydrogen and ammonia from biogenic, renewable or waste raw materials not competing with the food chain, in the naval sector.
Moreover, the partnership encompasses the development of initiatives for the logistics and value chain of new energy carriers, and the adoption of certified methods for the ‘taxonometric’ calculation of the emissions benefits they will generate.
Eni and RINA will also consider carrying out experiments and pilot projects related to the on-board capture of CO2 emissions in order to further contribute to pursuing the naval sector's sustainability goals.
Ugo Salerno (pictured, left), Chairman and CEO of RINA, said: “Cooperation between companies is the way forward towards the common goal of decarbonising industry and transport. By sharing know-how and experience with Eni, we will contribute to developing innovative energy supply models. Our collaboration will begin by focusing on the maritime sector, a diversified and hard-to-abate industry that can draw on initiatives already adopted by other industrial segments to decarbonise operations.”
Giuseppe Ricci (pictured, right), Chief Operating Officer for Energy Evolution at Eni, said: “Eni and RINA can make a significant contribution to the decarbonisation of maritime transport with their wealth of expertise and technological capabilities. Following a technology-agnostic approach, we are exploring multiple solutions. Thanks to this agreement, we will have the opportunity to study and develop them in the short, medium and long term, with the objective of making maritime transport more sustainable and meeting the needs of shipowners and logistics operators.”
Peel Ports builds brand new £28m warehouse facility at Port of Liverpool
Peel Ports Group is investing £28 million on a new facility at the Port of Liverpool in its biggest single investment in warehousing this year.
Construction of the 240,000 square foot warehouse at the leading port operator’s Alexandra Dock is to begin in the coming days.
The new facility, referred to as Alexandra Dock Multi-User Warehouse (MUW), will be the length of up to five football pitches (400 metres) and used for the handling and storage of cargo at the port.
It will be able to store a variety of commodities, both unitised and non-unitised requiring indoor storage.
The facility will also have 300 metres of dedicated quayside and state-of-the-art cranes to optimise vessel discharge as part of the new development.
David Huck, Chief Operating Officer at Peel Ports Group, said: “We’re very pleased to be announcing the construction for this major purpose-built space at the Port of Liverpool.
“We’ve seen a significant increase in demand for warehousing, and this huge new facility provides an opportunity for new customers looking for capacity to grow their business, as well as allowing existing customers the chance to expand their operational capacity at the port.
“This also represents a very important milestone for Peel Ports Group, enhancing both our warehousing and distribution offerings while enabling more sustainable port-centric solutions.
“We’ve long argued the benefits of the Port of Liverpool’s central location, and this new facility will also provide real cost, carbon and congestion supply chain benefits to the market.”
The new state-of-the-art, dynamic storage facility has been maximised for storage volumes, discharge performance and fast HGV turnaround times.
The project is expected to be completed in April 2024 and the work will be carried out by leading construction company Glencar.
Commenting on the project, Peter Goodman, Managing Director – Midlands & North, said: “Working with some of the UK’s leading asset managers, developers and occupiers, Glencar has developed a market leading reputation in the delivery of industrial and logistics facilities.
“We understand the commercial imperative to produce sustainable and high-quality structures, often at speed, creating lasting value for asset owners and are delighted to be working for leading UK Port Operator Peel Ports to construct this multi-user warehouse development.
“Ports serve as a critical part of the UK Supply Chain and multi-users facilities of this type contribute towards the continuation of the import and export of vital goods. We look forward to working with the full project team progressing the project to a successful end product."
NAPA, Norsepower and Sumitomo study finds up to 28% CO2 emissions reduction potential using rotor sails and voyage optimization
Maritime software and data services expert NAPA, auxiliary wind propulsion system provider Norsepower and shipyards Sumitomo Heavy Industries Marine & Engineering (SHI-ME) have announced the results of phase one of their joint simulation project looking at the fuel saving and emissions reduction potential of combining Norsepower Rotor Sail™ (pictured) and NAPA Voyage Optimization onboard SHI-ME's wind propulsion ship.
Phase one of the simulation project (from December 2022 to March 2023) found that the combination of NAPA Voyage Optimization with the Norsepower Rotor Sail™ can deliver emissions reductions of 28%, on average, on the Atlantic route between New York and Amsterdam. Of these average CO2 emissions savings, the contribution of NAPA Voyage Optimization can be estimated at 12%.
The joint simulation project leveraged insights from NAPA’s ship performance model and its voyage simulation tools, as well as Norsepower’s actual performance data. Using nowcast weather data from 2022 and specifications provided by Norsepower and SHI-ME, the digital twins developed by NAPA were able to simulate the performance of the tankers in selected sea areas.
Focusing on the annual voyages of six popular trading routes, the study evaluated the tankers' estimated CO2 reduction and potential fuel saving with NAPA Voyage Optimization and Norsepower Rotor Sails™ and compared these with using only NAPA Voyage Optimization.
Looking at results across all six routes, the study found an average CO2 reduction of 19% when using NAPA Voyage Optimization alongside Norsepower Rotor Sails™, with NAPA Voyage Optimization contributing 10% of these emissions reductions. Using insights from the simulation, the study also explored how to predict vessel performance at the design stage, testing how the ship could handle varying sea and weather conditions.
Phase two of the research project (May 2023 onwards) is designed to build on phase one and enhance the performance of vessels with Norsepower Rotor Sails™. Using fleet data, the study will conduct advanced performance analysis to improve operational performance and explore new optimization strategies. The project is part of SHI-ME's plan to develop a new proof of concept for wind-assisted ships, which will be equipped with Norsepower Rotor Sails™.
The project and its findings will help strengthen the business case for investing in wind-assist technology at a time when the industry is under increasing pressure to decarbonise. Using NAPA’s operational voyage simulation technology alongside the technical expertise of Norsepower and SHI-ME, the collaborative study brings critical insight and assurance to inform commercial and operational decisions as early as the design stage.
Pekka Pakkanen, Executive Vice President, NAPA Shipping Solutions, said: “This joint simulation project shows the significant potential for combining wind propulsion with voyage optimization for planet-positive impact. At a time when the industry is racing to comply with environmental regulations, digital solutions are enabling greater collaboration with stakeholders across the maritime value chain. This joint simulation project was no different. Our findings are promising and can help bring much-needed clarity to help the industry meet its sustainability goals.”
Jukka Kuuskoski, CSO, Norsepower, added: “Norsepower’s mission is to lead shipping towards zero carbon emissions, so it has been an honour to work alongside top experts such as NAPA and SHI-ME. At a time of growing international regulatory and public pressure to save fuel and reduce the industry’s environmental impact, this performance data on the benefits of adopting clean technologies will give the industry the necessary confidence to invest in decarbonisation. We are proud of this project and its future impact.”
Yuji Arai, Senior Engineer, Sumitomo Heavy Industries Marine & Engineering Co., Ltd. (SHI-ME), said: “SHI-ME’s vision is to deliver innovative and state-of-the-art vessels for shipping’s decarbonisation. The Norsepower Rotor Sail™, NAPA’s knowledge of weather routing and SHI-ME’s expertise in tall-ship design are all vital pieces to materialize the vision of a greener industry. Looking at the findings from this study, we think the CO2 emissions reduction figures exceed customers’ expectations.”
Star Information Systems supercharges flagship system with new tech platform
As part of its drive to continuously improve its rig and vessel management solutions to meet the future demands of the shipping and offshore industries, Norwegian software supplier Star Information Systems (STAR) has launched STAR Suite – comprising its STAR enterprise asset management (EAM) system and apps but now featuring an advanced technological platform that combines the best web and native functionality and performance.
STAR Suite uses game-changing onboard software technology to enable enhanced planning and preparation of onboard work in a safe old EAM but with additional targeted functionality and enhanced configuration capabilities.
“User-friendliness is vital for busy seafarers,” says Product Director Per Anders Koien (pictured). “With STAR Suite we’ve worked hard to modernise the desktop interface compared to the existing EAM. We’ve also improved the entire installation process. First-time installation onboard a vessel will take an hour at most, but after that every new user can be up and running in a minute. The software is also continuously and seamlessly upgraded so you always have the latest version.”
Being cloud-based the STAR Suite platform enables SaaS (software as a service) even for onboard applications/users. “You can use live cloud-based systems on vessels like ferries that sail close to shore but it’s not practical for oceangoing tonnage that spend a lot of time in areas with limited bandwidth,” says Koien. “You really need to have the software onboard.
“A key part of our solution is to install a web server on the ship that runs in the same way as a cloud solution but locally. Data exchange between the web server and our centralized cloud is very fast and takes up minimal bandwidth versus a bandwidth-heavy live connection.”
Port of Aberdeen explores subsea hydrogen storage at new South Harbour
Port of Aberdeen, in partnership with Subsea7, has secured a grant of £150,000 from the Scottish Government to investigate the feasibility of storing hydrogen underwater at the new Aberdeen South Harbour.
The 'H2Shore - Hydrogen coastal storage and distribution' project will conduct thorough engineering analyses to determine the most effective technological approach and identify an appropriate offshore location. Additionally, the project will develop an outline business case.
Energy consultancy firm, Xodus, is tasked with scrutinising the necessary distribution and bunkering requirements, with a focus on equipment, processes, and operating procedures.
This study is among 32 projects to receive funding from the Hydrogen Innovation Scheme, a programme dedicated to fostering innovation in renewable hydrogen production, storage, and distribution.
Marlene Mitchell, Commercial Manager, Port of Aberdeen, said: "Securing Scottish Government funding for our H2Shore project is a significant achievement. Ports have a pivotal role in the transition to hydrogen technologies, contributing to the journey towards net zero emissions and serving as crucial infrastructure for hydrogen transport and trade. This initiative is one of many promising opportunities we're exploring to position Port of Aberdeen at the forefront of Scotland's burgeoning hydrogen economy."
Stian Sande, Group Strategy Director Energy Transition, Subsea7, said: “We are delighted to be working with Port of Aberdeen on this innovative hydrogen storage project. We are looking forward to exploring and evaluating suitable concepts with the goal of enabling and accelerating offshore hydrogen production, storage and infrastructure. As a global leader in delivering complex energy projects, we continue to work with our partners and clients to make the energy transition possible.”
AAL transports eight giant juice tanks from China to Portugal for vessel conversion
AAL Shipping has recently transported eight giant juice tanks safely on a single sailing from Taicang Port in China to Setúbal in Portugal, 50 kilometres south of Lisbon. Carried on its 31,000dwt mega-size A-Class heavy lift vessel, AAL Kobe, and along its popular ‘Asia-Europe’ Trade Route, the cargo will be used in a vessel conversion at the Lisnave Shipyard.
The tanks were stowed on deck and extensive operational planning was required to address multiple operational challenges in the lifting and transport of these over-dimensional 150 tonne units, which each measured 12 metres x 12 metres x 16.5 metres and posed visibility restrictions on their journey. They were safely discharged at the Portuguese shipyard, where they will be installed into a bulk carrier, transforming the vessel into a fruit juice tanker.
Yahaya Sanusi, Deputy Head of Transport Engineering at AAL, commented: “We initially had to ensure that a specially designed lifting beam could in fact be aligned, connected, and lifted without mechanical support from the weather deck of the AAL Kobe to the tanks’ trunnions located at 12 metres’ height. Thanks to both the vessel’s outstanding crane height and tailormade lifting beam, we were able to stow the units successfully on deck.
“The goalposts then changed midway through the project, when our initial discharge to quayside plan was replaced by a more ambitious proposal, involving the discharge of the heavy lift units directly to the soon-to-be-converted bulk carrier. After extensive modelling and risk assessment by our engineering team, the original plan was reinstated. We also had to overcome a very shallow vessel draft and other operational restrictions at port of discharge using extensive modelling, bathymetric surveys, and tides, mooring, and risk analyses. This provided the data and operational transparency required for AAL to handle the tanks safely using only the ship cranes. All plans were carefully screened and approved by not only the local port authority, but also insurers and other project stakeholders.”
Christophe Grammare, AAL’s Managing Director, concluded: “With almost 95 percent of AAL’s fleet now owned and controlled by us, we can ensure that busy trade lanes – especially those that connect Asia, with key trading markets in Europe, the Americas, and Australasia – are served with the required frequency of sailings all year round. Additionally, we have boosted our engineering and operations capability across all key markets and time zones, and that is well demonstrated on this particular project, when rapidly changing operational criteria and local restrictions needed to be addressed at a local level and smartly.”
Freight industry must resist the tidal wave of drug smuggling
In the past two months, since the beginning of April, yet more examples of criminal gangs utilising the complexity of European import trades to smuggle in drugs have continued to emerge.
Reports include cocaine in containers of fruit through the port of Antwerp; in Rotterdam narcotics were discovered in reefer containers carrying melons from Panama; ecstasy with a value of €1.5 million in a truck at Calais and Le Havre emerging as a hotspot for cocaine imports; 133 kilos of marijuana and hashish at the Port of Motril in southern Spain brought in from North Africa, and news of smuggling gangs with links to Brazil operating in Lisbon and Oporto.
“These are just fragments of the evidence that we have of the crucial role ports are playing in the illicit drug trade across Western Europe,” comments Mike Yarwood, Managing Director Loss Prevention at TT Club. “110 tons of cocaine were seized at the port of Antwerp last year and much has been reported of how the city has become the European hub for drug importation. But the network of channels for the trade is widespread and few ports along the seaboard can turn a blind eye to the problem.”
To open the industry’s eyes to the dangers yet further, TT is committing significant resource to collating detailed reporting, including that of their partner BSI Screen, to create greater awareness of the sophisticated methods that criminals employ, the extent of their geographical reach and the diverse gateways they are using to supply the vast European market for illicit drugs.
“Increasing awareness, particularly the role of European ports in drug smuggling is crucial to restricting this trade,” comments Erica Bressner, BSI’s European Analyst. “Especially as indications show that smuggling at ports may be increasing for certain key narcotics, like cocaine. Europol has reported record-setting seizures of cocaine every year since 2017, particularly in seaports. This points to a growing market for the narcotic as cocaine becomes more affordable to the average consumer.”
“In response, European port authorities have worked to implement additional security measures to combat this trade and its concurrent violence. However, the control of the criminal syndicates is such that they have the ability to adapt their smuggling routes to evade authorities. This includes a diversification of smuggling routes to target non-traditional ports of entry where security measures are less intensive,” says Bressner.
With the potentially enormous profits to be made within the drugs trade, funds to bribe port employees and others working in the transport infrastructure are readily available. Customs officials and police officers are not beyond corruption and the current levels of inflation and high living costs are further incentivising those that were perhaps beyond reproach in the past. In addition to corruption, the criminal syndicates are able to discover key contacts at the ports (often online and through social media) and threaten them and their families with harm to ensure their compliance and silence.
Ports offer an attractive transfer point for drugs from sea going vessels and containers to trucks. These trucks leaving for the hinterland can contain contraband, often without the driver’s knowledge, and are hijacked, increasingly by heavily armed and brutal gangs. Also becoming more extensive is computer hacking, either to directly obtain information of a specific containers whereabouts or intended destinations, or to plant tracking software that facilitates raids at pinpointed locations.
Much more vigilance across European port communities is clearly required. TT’s Yarwood outlines one strategy, “Employee vetting and training both in terms of motivating them to be vigilant and loyal but also in terms of maintaining secure processes of documentation and online communication. Identifying the more common origin points of contraband cargo, such as South America and North Africa, and ‘rogue’ consignees and unexpected delivery points will help,” he advises.
Security at the established targeted ports has naturally been increased with, for example a new seventy-strong security corps established in Antwerp, increased CCTV surveillance and the use of drones in Rotterdam, and a specialist anti-drug trafficking police unit in the Netherlands. However, the crime groups are well entrenched, having established long tentacles throughout supply chains and are sophisticated in their expertise and knowledge of how trade works.
“We are dealing with global crime syndicates,” concludes Yarwood. “Efforts to combat their activities will be akin to squeezing a half-inflated balloon, we may constrict them in one or two ports but they will find ways to exploit others. We urge all in our industry then to be aware of the possibilities of drug importation and to take all steps they can to restrict this illicit trade.”
Farra Marine leverages fleet monitoring technology to strengthen customer base
Farra Marine, a Dublin-based specialist crew transfer vessel (CTV) operator in the offshore wind sector, is using Reygar’s BareFLEET vessel monitoring system to provide critical performance and vessel availability data to its growing customer base.
BareFLEET is up and running across Farra’s entire operational fleet. Based on positive customer feedback, is it also set for installation on seven more CTVs in build with the Penguin International shipyard in Singapore.
“Our ethos with the fleet is to monitor, identify, improve and reduce. BareFLEET has been key in enabling enhanced fuel efficiencies and improved passenger comfort across the board,” explained Martin Rice, Farra Marine CEO.
“We have been able to demonstrate the performance credentials of our ‘Windflex’ CTV design, backed up by real-time fuel consumption, engine load and motion data, to clients worldwide. Reygar’s system provides a level of transparency on how our vessels and crew perform that has supported us in building trust and strengthening customer relationships.
“Of course, in some instances, passengers themselves make the call not to transfer on to the turbines. BareFLEET can still demonstrate that the vessel and crew fulfilled their remit in terms of vessel ability to transfer.”
Reygar’s technology provides comprehensive insight into fleet fuel use, emissions, machinery health, VMMS motion and navigational activity based on continuous on-board sensor measurements. By centrally collating performance data in one place, the system provides internal and external reporting efficiencies and enables effective, fleet-wide decision making.
Chris Huxley-Reynard, CEO of Reygar, explained: “Measurements and video from the system help companies like Farra Marine to meet customer expectations and contractual demands. Building trust with end user customers based on sharing accurate vessel performance data is one of the key benefits of BareFLEET.”
Health and nutrition must be positioned top of the table, says MCTC following declining happiness levels in seafarers
Shipping companies must ensure a high quality of food and hygiene standards remain throughout a vessel’s whole voyage, says leading catering management provider MCTC as it hopes to bring the industry together to celebrate Cook’s Day 2023 this week.
MCTC has called on the industry to support them in celebrating and honouring the role of the Cook, which the company says is hugely undervalued, for the second annual Cook’s Day event.
The initiative is aimed at showing appreciation to Cooks and recognising them for the vital work they do onboard.
Earlier this month it was revealed that happiness levels among crews were declining in the latest Seafarers Happiness Index report, which cited dissatisfaction with the quality of food onboard as a significant factor, particularly when crews have been out at sea for many months.
Following the report. Group CEO of MCTC Christian Ioannou (pictured) is encouraging shipping companies to prioritise the health of their crews by providing healthy and nutritious meals and snacks for the duration of the vessel’s voyage, to help promote a healthy lifestyle onboard.
International company MCTC provides the full spectrum of catering management services to vessels, from recipe planning, ordering provisions, and budgeting, along with a range of catering and nutrition training courses for galley staff. It also promotes a healthy lifestyle with fitness and mental health initiatives.
Mr Ioannou said: “It is deeply concerning that seafarers’ happiness levels are declining in the latest report, and how they are growing increasingly unhappy with the quality of food served onboard.
“Over the last few years, we have really seen the tide starting to turn how much investment and importance companies are placing on health and wellbeing. It is important for the industry to carry on working together to ensure standards continue to improve across the board.
“The importance of the Cook’s role is hugely undervalued, and the Seafarers’ Happiness Index latest report shows just how much good food can impact the rest of the crews.
"The report showed that seafarers expressed that meals were sometimes unhealthy and low quality, especially when they ended up serving onboard longer than expected. This is coupled with concerns over inadequate budgets in relation to the cost of inflation and increasing costs across the board, leaving seafarers feeling fed up and not well cared for.
“This really shows how important the role of a good Cook is. Through our services, we give galley crews the knowledge to create healthy meals within budget and we are completely transparent with our clients, so they understand the true cost of their food provisions,” Mr Ioannou added.
MCTC has expressed its gratitude to everyone taking part in Cook’s Day 2023 with crew members set to show their appreciation to their Cooks by baking an Easy Banana Cake recipe, created by MCTC’s team of expert Culinary Consultants. Click here to see the MCTC Banana Cake recipe.
Columbia Group opens up in Istanbul
The Columbia Group has underlined its commitment to the burgeoning Turkish maritime cluster by opening an office in Istanbul. CSM Turkey will be headed up by Capt. Ozgur Gunes and overseen by Xanthos Kyriakou and Johann Meyer from the Italian and German offices respectively.
The new office will offer the full spectrum of the Columbia Group integrated maritime services with diverse support to all its stakeholders as well as full ‘second party’ technical and crew management services. CSM Turkey will offer essential vessel digitalisation and optimisation services through Columbia’s much heralded Performance Optimisation Control Room (POCR), in addition to training, catering and newbuilding consultancy. It will also act as a valuable springboard for the new entity’s expansion into the luxury aviation, super yacht, and cruise management sectors in Turkey.
Tanker pool management is also available through UPT, as well as mental health and crew wellbeing services through One Care, while Columbia Finance can provide stakeholders in the Turkish market with the necessary project equity.
CSM Turkey will explore a range of in-house joint venture opportunities with Turkish owners as well as offer top notch crew management services to the Turkish market, that will include the supply and management of Filipino, Indian, East European, Vietnamese, Indonesian, Chinese and of course Turkish seafarers.
The importance of the ‘second party’ shipmanagement model to the Turkish market was underlined by Mark O’Neil (pictured, centre left, with Capt. Gunes welcoming guests), President and CEO of the Columbia Group, who said CSM Turkey’s blueprint was all about “working with our stakeholders, our clients and our partners, side-by-side, supporting their ability to grow through the delivery of Columbia Group services”.
Addressing invited guests at the office’s opening, he said Turkey offered a range of exciting opportunities, ranging from shipbuilding, offshore management and construction, to the cruise sector, super yachts and private jets, all of which could benefit from the services offered by the Columbia Group.
“We want to talk to you about managing your ships, about building vessels, about building barges and offshore units in Turkey. We want to advise you on how to manage, operate and invest in private jets and the super yacht industry. If there is a market for cruise in Turkey, come and talk to us. We will invest in that market, and we will invest in those vessels,” he said.
“We are ready to invest in these areas because the Columbia Group is here for the long term. It is not what we can get out of Turkey that matters, but how we can invest in the country and grow our businesses together,” he said.
Mr O’Neil emphasised that Columbia is committed to contributing to the Turkish society and is talking with Turkish maritime universities about offering Columbia scholarships to Turkish cadets.
Diverse panel to scrutinise key shipping industry issues at LISW23 Headline Conference
Diversity will be a core factor of this year’s London International Shipping Week Headline Conference when a healthy balance of global leaders come together to debate crucial industry issues at the London headquarters of the International Maritime Organization on September 13th.
LISW23 Conference Working Group Chair, Jos Standerwick, Chief Executive of Maritime London, said: “As the speaker line-up takes shape, we are on track to have the most diverse conference to date, with leading thinkers from outside the industry, and as always the most influential stakeholders from the market.”
Entitled ‘Reframing Risk in a Complex Market’, the LISW23 Headline Conference, will bring together highest-level speakers from across the world to scrutinise the business of shipping from three key perspectives: external factors; internal factors; and opportunities and solutions.
The Conference is chaired by shipping industry veteran Paddy Rodgers, Director of the Royal Museums, Greenwich, and the moderators for the three sessions are Steve Davies, CEO, Anglo International; Martin Crawford-Brunt, Director, Baltic Exchange; and Siiri Duddington, Partner and Deputy Head of London Office, Hill Dickinson LLP.
Aligned with the conference’s commitment to diversity, speakers include Elisabeth Fauvelle Munck af Rosenschöld, Global Sustainability Manager for IKEA Transport & Logistics; Poonam Melwani KC, Head of Chambers, Quadrant; and Martha Selwyn, Manager for Ocean and Climate, United Nations Global Compact. With further announcements coming soon.
Mr Standerwick said: “This year’s conference will focus on the current macroeconomic / geopolitical landscape, and what the implications are for the shipping industry. External stakeholders’ expectations on the industry’s decarbonisation targets and how they intersect with the internal regulatory regime. How the contractual and risk-sharing agenda can be evolved to ensure closer cooperation between counterparties in shipping’s value chain. And lastly what technological and business innovations are required to successfully manage the increasingly complex risks the industry is facing.”
Conference tickets are now on sale via the LISW23 website: https://londoninternationalshippingweek.com/ticket-registration/
London International Shipping Week 2023, which this year celebrates its 10 year anniversary, will bring together shipping industry leaders from across the entire maritime sector and showcase all that London and the UK have to offer in relation to trade, shipping sectors, orts, and associated services such as finance, law, insurance, broking etc. The event is delivered through a partnership between the UK Government, Maritime UK and event owner and organiser Shipping Innovation.
This year’s week-long, in-person, LISW23 is on schedule to be the biggest and best yet and will feature a 2,000 seat Gala Dinner on the Thursday evening at the riverside Evolution London, a spectacular venue in Battersea Park, with - for the first time - an after party into the ‘wee small hours’.
Sean Moloney, LISW co-founder, said: “London International Shipping Week goes from strength-to-strength and the plans for this year are beyond exciting. In particular, the tremendous calibre of the conference speakers will generate knowledgeable and in-depth discussion of some of the most important aspects of the wider shipping industry and we are very much looking forward to a full house at the IMO.”
Wallem Group celebrates its 120th anniversary.
Wallem Group is marking its 120th-anniversary year with a programme of events in Europe and Asia, during which the company will celebrate its rich history and look ahead to the future of shipping.
Established by Haakon J. Wallem in 1903 in Shanghai, China as shipbroking and chartering firm Wallem & Co., the company became the world’s first third-party ship manager in 1908 when it was appointed to manage sisterships SS Chingtufu and SS Tsinanfu, both employed in the coal trade on the Chinese coast.
Today, Wallem Group is established throughout Asia and in Europe, while its extensive portfolio incorporates ship and crew management, a range of technical and commercial services and ship agency – including project cargo and cruise ship agency.
Nigel Hill, Chairman of the Board at Wallem Group, commented: “I was lucky enough to be invited to Wallem’s 100th-anniversary celebration and recall being impressed by the company’s history. It is no mean feat to have survived the turmoil of the 20th century, world wars and financial crashes – and to still be thriving now during digital and technological revolution. Reaching 120 years in this industry is something to be proud of and well worth celebrating.”
Wallem inaugurated its state-of-the-art Maritime Training Centre in Manila, Philippines in 2022, featuring a full mission bridge simulator, engine room simulator and liquid cargo handling simulators. The company’s sustained investment in high-quality crew training– in addition to its work promoting seafarer welfare – reflects its belief that, in the maritime industry, “the future is human.”
John-Kaare Aune (pictured), Wallem Group CEO, said: “Wallem’s 120th-anniversary year offers an opportunity to celebrate and reflect on the company’s long and diverse history, but it is equally important that we look towards the future. Despite the excitement surrounding autonomous vessels and automated processes, which undoubtedly have a significant role to play in shipping, the future of maritime is still very much human – and our commitment to seafarer training and welfare stems from this conviction.”
The first of Wallem’s 120th-anniversary events took place in Hong Kong in April with events in Oslo, Singapore, and Shanghai to follow in June, September, and December, respectively.
APM Terminals Bahrain to become region’s first fully solar energy-powered seaport
APM Terminals Bahrain, the operator of Khalifa Bin Salman Port, has officially announced the launch of a ground-breaking solar power project worth approximately BHD3.8 million (USD 10 Million), which will make the port energy self-sufficient by the end of 2023.
By implementing this project, the terminal will reduce its carbon emissions by 65% while also securing a reliable and sustainable source of energy, effectively making Khalifa Bin Salman Port the region’s first fully energy-sufficient seaport.
The solar power project is part of APM Terminals' global decarbonisation plans, which aim to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 70% by 2030 and achieve net zero by 2040. As a subsidiary of A.P. Moller-Maersk, APM Terminals is committed to leading the way in promoting sustainability within the maritime industry, and the solar power project in Bahrain is one of the main pillars in its overall decarbonisation journey.
Furthermore, the driving force behind the solar power initiative is in line with the vision of His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa for a more prosperous and sustainable Bahrain and follows the carbon-neutral commitment made by Bahrain's Crown Prince and Prime Minister, His Royal Highness Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa to reduce the kingdom’s emissions by 30% by 2035 and achieve net zero by 2060.
“We are very excited to take the first major step in our decarbonisation plans, which will make Khalifa Bin Salman Port the region’s first seaport to be fully powered by renewable energy,” shared Farooq Zuberi, Chief Finance Officer and Interim Managing Director, APM Terminals Bahrain. “Our decarbonisation strategy for the port is in line with the vision of HM The King and the commitment of HRH the Crown Prince and Prime Minister for Bahrain, as well as APM Terminals' global goal of being safer, better, and bigger.”
He continued: "We are constantly striving to develop more sustainable and responsible business practices in order to serve better our customers and the communities in which we work.”
By the end of the solar implementation project, APM Terminals Bahrain will have installed 20,000 solar photovoltaic panels capable of generating 18.5 Gigawatts of electricity per year. This renewable energy source will produce clean and sustainable energy for powering various port operations, including container handling, crane operations, and lighting, setting an example for the entire maritime industry.
APM Terminals Bahrain is excited to contribute to the government’s efforts to realise a carbon-neutral Bahrain and be part of A.P. Moller – Maersk’s goal to achieve net-zero GHG emissions in 2040 across all business entities.
Grimaldi orders two more ammonia-ready PCTC vessels, now has 17 car carriers now under construction
The Grimaldi Group has further grown its order book with two more new Pure Car & Truck Carrier (PCTC) vessels. Last January, the company signed an agreement with Shanghai Waigaoqiao Shipbuilding Company Limited (SWS) and China Shipbuilding Trading Company Limited (CSTC) – two companies part of China State Shipbuilding Corporation Limited (CSSC) – for the construction of five PCTC ships. The option for another two sister vessels was finally exercised a few days ago.
With a length of 200 metres, a width of 38 metres and loading capacity of 9,000 CEU (Car Equivalent Units), the new buildings have been designed to transport electric and fossil fuel vehicles (cars, SUVs, vans, etc.) as well as other types of heavy rolling freight (weighing up to 250 tons).
They will be among the first ships equipped with a new type of electronic engine whose specific consumption is one of the lowest in its category. Thanks to their emission abatement systems, the new units will comply with the most stringent limits established at international level for CO2, NOx and SOx emissions and their CO2 emissions index per cargo unit transported more will be significantly reduced – up to over 50% lower than that of other PCTC ships currently operated by the Grimaldi Group.
In addition, the new ships received the Ammonia Ready class notation from RINA (Italian Shipping Register), which certifies that they may be converted for the use of ammonia as an alternative, zero-carbon fuel. They are designed for cold ironing with shoreside supply of electricity (where available), which constitutes a green alternative to the consumption of fossil fuels during port stays.
The deal with the Chinese shipyard for the construction of the seven PCTCs is valued in excess of USD 630 million. This investment is part of the Grimaldi Group’s massive fleet renewal plan, which includes 26 ships currently under construction: 17 ammonia-ready car carriers, five G5-class multipurpose ro-ro units, two GG5G-class hybrid ro-ro vessels and two Superstar-class ro-pax ships (for the subsidiary Finnlines).
"Investing in the design and construction of such large, eco-friendly vessels as these new ammonia-ready PCTC units means making a concrete contribution both to the development of international trade and to the ecological transition in the shipping sector," stated Group Managing Director Emanuele Grimaldi (pictured). “Our fleet modernization project is extremely ambitious, but this is the kind of initiatives that our sector needs to tackle decarbonisation, one of the most urgent and demanding challenges of our time.”
The delivery of the two newly ordered PCTCs is scheduled for 2026. Like their five sister vessels, they will be deployed on voyages between Europe, North Africa, the Near and Far East, to meet the transport demands of operators in the automotive industry.
PIL successfully delivers first shipment of avocados from Africa to Asia with Carrier Transicold’s EverFRESH Active CA system
Reflecting the growing use of controlled atmosphere (CA) technologies to maintain quality of fruits and vegetables over extended shipping times, Pacific International Lines (PIL) has successfully transported its first shipments of avocados from Kenya to Brunei using Carrier Transicold’s innovative EverFRESH® CA system.
“The EverFRESH Active CA technology has worked well for us in transporting avocados over a number of our key refrigerated trade lanes,” said Lim Chee Wei, General Manager Logistics Division, PIL. “That success with higher-respiring perishables gave us the confidence to expand its use for shipments of Kenyan-grown avocados, and we are pleased that EverFRESH has again proven to be a success in this first shipment of avocados from Kenya.”
According to the Food and Agriculture Organisation of the United Nations (FAO), Kenya is currently the world’s sixth largest avocado producer. Since October 2022, PIL has accomplished a number of firsts with EverFRESH CA technology – its first shipments of avocados from Peru to Hong Kong, as well as from Australia to Singapore.
EverFRESH reduces respiration and slows natural ripening of commodities by optimizing oxygen and carbon dioxide balance. The positive pressure effectively built up inside the container reduces box air leakage compared to other controlled atmosphere systems. This innovative technology helps to maintain ideal conditions during transportation while extending the shelf life of high-value commodities.
Using active CA technology, the EverFRESH system also generates high-purity nitrogen to more quickly and responsively displace oxygen, rather than relying on cargo respiration alone to gradually reduce oxygen levels.
“PIL’s success with the EverFRESH system is a significant step for our support of the growing trend among shipping lines to provide CA technology for the benefit of their customers,” said Leow Eng Meng, Sales Director, Asia, Global Container Refrigeration, Carrier Transicold. “This is further proof that our customers can benefit from the improved atmosphere control of Carrier’s EverFRESH system, which allows for more precise settings and with that, more effective shipments of perishable commodities.”
Guidelines on the Application of the ILO Maritime Labour Convention, Fourth Edition
The International Chamber of Shipping (ICS) is pleased to announce that the new edition of Guidelines on the Application of the ILO Maritime Labour Convention is now available to order in print as well as ebook format. The updated fourth edition contains practical tools not in previous editions and addresses the wide range of MLC provisions including the 2022 updates.
More than ten years have passed since the entry into force of the ILO Maritime Labour Convention (MLC), which is now strictly enforced on a global basis and subject to Port State Control inspection.
This comprehensive and definitive guide to the MLC is simple to navigate, using infographics and colour coding so readers can easily see what changes have been made to the standards and guidelines and get clarification on how to prepare for the changes which will enter into force in December 2024.
Guidelines on the Application of the ILO Maritime Labour Convention, fourth edition, is priced at £150 and is available in print and ebook. Read the full contents list, foreword and order direct from ICS Publications.
Viasat completes acquisition of Inmarsat to create new global satcom partner
Global communications company Viasat has announced the completion of its acquisition of Inmarsat. The combined company will continue to be led by Viasat’s Mark Dankberg as Chairman and CEO and Guru Gowrappan as President.
Inmarsat says the combined company enhances its scale and scope to continue to drive growth in the increasingly dynamic and competitive satellite communications industry. The company’s assets, once fully integrated, are expected to increase the pace and scope of innovation in the global satellite connectivity sector, offering new and improved capabilities to customers that will address the ever-increasing speed, flexibility, reliability, coverage and security they demand.
“We are thrilled to welcome Inmarsat’s employees, customers, shareholders and partners into the Viasat ecosystem,” said Mark Dankberg. “The combination of our companies brings together the people, technology, innovation, network assets, spectrum resources and global partnerships needed to help connect the world more affordably, securely and reliably. Together, we believe we are positioned to offer customers a multi-layered network that gives them the right connectivity at the right time, place and price.
“Thanks to all those who worked so tirelessly and thoroughly to complete this transaction,” said Dankberg. “I’d also like to thank the Viasat team and the leadership team at Inmarsat, especially the contributions of Rajeev Suri, Inmarsat CEO, and Andy Sukawaty, Inmarsat Chairman. Rajeev and Andy will be joining the Viasat Board of Directors as representatives of the prior Inmarsat private equity ownership consortium. I look forward to their continued contributions to the company.”
Viasat also reconfirmed that its new global international business headquarters will be in London. Corporate headquarters will continue to be in Carlsbad, California. Further decisions regarding organizational structure and leadership will be determined as part of the ongoing integration process.
“Our goal is to be the undisputed leader in satellite communications with a sharp focus on providing the best products and services for our customers,” said Gowrappan. “We are more than the sum of our parts. This combination broadens the global fixed and mobile services available to customers in an industry-defining moment. We intend to move quickly to bring the best from each company together in a way that creates much deeper value for our stakeholders and ensures we deliver on our synergy commitments.”
“Satellite communications is a hugely significant and strategic global market for the U.K. space sector, now poised for an exciting next phase,” said George Freeman MP, UK Minister of State at the Department of Science, Innovation & Technology. “The combination of Viasat and Inmarsat creates a global leader in satellite communications here in the UK. It brings significant investment, hundreds of new highly skilled jobs and will serve as a catalyst for substantial economic growth.”
The closing of the Inmarsat acquisition enables the companies to bring together spectrum, satellite, and terrestrial assets, including 19 satellites in space spanning Ka-, L- and S- bands. These complementary assets are expected to deliver connectivity and key safety services across maritime, aviation, government and consumer markets with speed and reliability of connection front of mind.
John F. Kerry to address ocean climate challenge at Nor-Shipping 2023
Nor-Shipping has announced that John F. Kerry, the United States Special Presidential Envoy for Climate, will deliver a closing address at the Ocean Leadership Conference, taking place on Tuesday 6 June.
Kerry, a former Secretary of State and Democratic presidential candidate, will share the stage with other key global figures including Dr Andrew Forrest, the Founder and Executive Chairman of Fortescue Metals Group, and Joseph E. Stiglitz, Nobel laureate in Economics and former Chief Economist at the World Bank. In his role as President Joe Biden’s ‘climate champion’, Kerry will address business leaders from around the world on the need to work together today to enable a sustainable tomorrow; balancing commercial opportunity with environmental ambition.
“We are honoured to confirm that John F. Kerry, for so long a leading light in the world of international politics and diplomacy, has accepted the invitation to speak at next week’s Nor-Shipping,” comments Sidsel Norvik, Director, Nor-Shipping. “As one of the driving forces behind the successful negotiation of the Paris Climate Agreement, Special Presidential Envoy Kerry is acutely aware of the need for sustainable ocean development; understanding that the decision makers gathering at Nor-Shipping have a vital role to play in that process.
“His addition to our unique line-up of global authorities, experts and thought leaders confirms both the standing of our Ocean Leadership Conference and its potential for enabling positive progress. With our main Nor-Shipping 2023 theme of #PartnerShip, we are delighted to be collaborating with so many respected individuals and organisations on securing the profitable, sustainable health of our ocean space.”
Kerry was sworn in as the first ever US Special Presidential Envoy for Climate on 20 January 2021, with President Biden saying that he would ‘have a seat at every table around the world’ in his quest to combat climate change. At Nor-Shipping he will share ‘the table’ with a broad range of big names from the ocean industries and beyond, including Guy Platten, Secretary General, of the International Chamber of Shipping; Kjerstin Braathen, CEO, DNB; and Remi Eriksen, Group President and CEO, DNV, amongst others.
Knut Arild Hareide, the Director General of Shipping and Navigation at the Norwegian Maritime Directorate, will also hold a ‘final words’ presentation alongside Kerry, blending a national perspective with growing global ocean ambitions.
VIKING completes YouSafe constant wear range with a Twist for cargo ship owners
VIKING Life-Saving Equipment has launched the VIKING YouSafe™ Twist, a compliance-led constant wear immersion suit whose advanced capabilities extend the reach of high-performance protection to the most cost conscious of maritime industry buyers.
Alongside other suits in the portfolio that have established VIKING’s as the broadest range of high-spec crew work application immersion suits in the market, the ‘Twist’ joins the VIKING YouSafe™ Cyclone, Hurricane, Hurricane+ and Boras in a range of progressively higher spec, storm-themed suits. All of them are made from waterproof, highly durable and breathable materials and designed for constant wear across multiple tasks in difficult conditions.
Work suits provide critical protection for seafarers at risk of cold shock and hypothermia if they go into the water, with their use mandatory for specific crew duties under IMO rules. However, lack of comfort, breathability or fit can become a donning deterrent, especially when duties require switching between operations or only involve short-lived exposure to risk.
Dual approved for SOLAS/MED and CE/ISO, the VIKING YouSafe™ Twist provides insulation up to one hour immersion in 5 ⁰C water plus the comfort of conventional marine work gear and the pricing to satisfy even the most cost-conscious PPE buyer. Providing an option for offshore, SAR and other patrol boat customers, the combination also puts the high-quality materials and PPE performance usually seen only on luxury cruise ships within reach of cargo ship owners.
The VIKING YouSafe™ Twist distils the resilience, flexibility and comfort that users expect from VIKING, in a straightforward design and pricing point to convince even cost-focused owners,” says Charlotte Nielsen, PPE, VIKING. “Wearability is key in persuading crew to take positive action rather than shortcuts when risks are intermittent or short-lived.
Typical scenarios where comfort will persuade crew to reach for the additional safety of a Twist include maintenance work on deck (handling mooring lines or pilot ladders), or davit operations. Multiple sizes are available, all integrating the Kevlar reinforcements that are synonymous with VIKING-quality suits.
“High quality crews want to work for high quality owners who prioritize safety, and VIKING has been able to boil down its high-performance constant wear to the essentials to match budgets in the cargo vessel market,” commented Global Cargo Sales Manager Lasse Boesen. “Supported by our global service network, we continue to make adhering to best practice on safety the best option for our clients.”
NorthStandard reaps early benefits of consolidation
Established on 20 February, NorthStandard employs over 650 people in offices worldwide, has over 365 million GT of owned and chartered tonnage on its books, generating annual premiums of around US$800 million and has free reserves of US$685 million.
For 2022/23, its net combined ratio - the barometer of P&I club performance - was 95%. NorthStandard also reports combined specialty revenues as contributing over US$200 million towards overall 2023 premiums.
Cesare d’Amico, Chair of NorthStandard, comments: “As one of the largest International Group members, NorthStandard aims to lead the way – in helping members trade smoothly, but also to enhance seafarer safety and successfully transition to new environmentally responsible energy sources,” he said. “Our size and scale give us the opportunity to champion mutual causes, push boundaries and influence the industry’s future.”
Immediately after formation of the consolidated entity in February 2023, S&P Global upgraded its rating assessment to ‘A’ with a stable outlook, reflecting NorthStandard’s improved operating performance and robust capital management, with a significant regulatory capital buffer and coverage of S&P's AAA capital requirements.
“Even at this early stage, NorthStandard is delivering as a platform for stability, growth and diversification,” said Jeremy Grose, one of two Managing Directors leading NorthStandard. “We have brought together the best of the approaches on which North and Standard Club both built success in specialist covers such as Offshore & Renewables, Strike & Delay, H&M, Coastal & Inland, Fishing and Aquaculture. We have also strengthened our geographic reach with a new operating structure and wider office network, enhancing our ability to expand - particularly in Asia, the Middle East and the USA.”
“The NorthStandard business strategy is to build a diversified portfolio with a range of mutual and specialty products, delivering the broadest range of marine insurance solutions relevant to our members and clients and their operations worldwide,” commented Paul Jennings, fellow MD, NorthStandard. “As a Club, we benefit from the breadth of exceptional service and expertise as well as the financial stability that comes with a diverse portfolio and, over the last 12 months, we were particularly pleased to see the continued positive premium income contributions from specialty lines.”
Grose added: “our members and stakeholders can be confident in our growing financial strength, which allows us to recruit and retain the very best people in the industry, enrich our member services through investments in innovative technology and deliver more tailored and sustainable solutions for the future.”
Against a backdrop of war in Ukraine, global inflation and continuing supply chain disruption, and a P&I sector rising to the challenges of complex new sanctions while still seeking to recover ground against a decade of premium erosion, both North and Standard Club successfully sought General Increases at the P&I renewals.
“Thanks to the ongoing support of our members, the overall rating increase achieved projections,” comments Thya Kathiravel, NorthStandard’s Chief Underwriting Officer. “The potential of what NorthStandard can deliver has started to excite the market, and we have received great interest for future business from brokers, potential members, and clients.”
Schulte Group strengthens its commitment in Japan
End of May, the Schulte Group welcomed 200 guests at the Imperial Hotel in Tokyo to thank its longstanding clients and other business partners. The event was organised to celebrate and strengthen the Schulte Group’s engagement and relationships in Japan which is one of its most important markets.
The Schulte Group has been active in Japan since the 1970s, when its first ship orders laid the foundation for the Group's long-standing relationships with its Japanese business partners. Today, the Group has had its own office in Tokyo for 15 years and Bernhard Schulte (BS), the Schulte Group’s ship owning arm, has currently two Kamsarmax bulk carriers on order at Shin Kurushima Sanoyas Shipbulding which are scheduled for delivery in summer 2023.
The Schulte Group’s ship management arm, Bernhard Schulte Shipmanagement (BSM), has been providing ship management services to Japanese clients for several decades. Today, BSM manages over 50 vessels of Japanese owners including container ships, bulk carriers, chemical and oil tankers as well as LPG and LNG carriers. Japan has also become a key market for MariApps, the Schulte Group’s digital technology company which provides its smartPAL software to a number of large Japanese clients.
To underline its commitment, the Schulte Group welcomed 200 guests to a reception at the Imperial Hotel in Tokyo to thank long-standing customers and partners and to celebrate the 15th anniversary of its presence in Tokyo. The event was attended by representatives of local ship owners, trading companies, banks, shipyards and other business partners. It was the Schulte Group's first reception in Japan after the pandemic.
In his welcome address Ian Beveridge (pictured, centre), CEO of the Schulte Group, thanked all customers and partners for their decades of support. He pointed out the similarities between the Schulte Group and Japanese companies: “We value trustful, long-term relationships and believe in sustainable partnerships that can be passed on to the next generation. This is why we aim to build on these partnerships and continue to grow our business in Japan under the leadership of Koji Sakano, who represents the Schulte Group in this important market.”
Beveridge continued underlining that the three main challenges for the shipping industry remain decarbonisation, digitalisation and people. A carbon-free future will depend on the right fuel solution and propulsion systems. Improved data transfer capabilities and connectivity of vessels must involve exploring the new satellite configurations as well as the possibilities of artificial intelligence which has come to stay and disrupt the industry’s operations. Building a diverse workforce overall, combining seafaring and office careers and creating the right culture for a sustainable shipping business can attract talented professionals to the industry.
The event took place one day before the Mission to Seafarers’ Adventure Race Japan, in which BSM participated with three teams to raise awareness and much needed funds for seafarers' welfare. Together, the three teams raised a total of $40,000 while the “BSM global" team won the "Black Dragon Race - Overall Winner" award.
Ronald Spithout appointed as Managing Director of OneHealth by VIKAND
Global healthcare specialist VIKAND has appointed Ronald Spithout as its Managing Director for VIKAND’s proactive total healthcare solution, called OneHealth, to support seafarers’ wellbeing.
Mr. Spithout (pictured, left) will combine his role at VIKAND with his duties at MariDISC, the company he started in 2022 and where he combines his over 30 years of experience in telecommunications with 20 years in digital applications of mobile satellite communications. Previously he spent nine years as Business Unit President at Inmarsat, six as President of Inmarsat’s maritime business, where he was instrumental in driving digitalisation at sea.
His key responsibilities at VIKAND will be to communicate and grow VIKAND’s OneHealth business in the commercial maritime sector by promoting the digital innovation and progressive medical insights of OneHealth to proactively focus on seafarers’ overall wellness, not just concentrating reactively on specific illnesses or conditions.
OneHealth is an all-inclusive, proactive process to onboard health and wellness which has been inspired by VIKAND’s vision of putting seafarer health at the top of the agenda. For VIKAND this means supporting a holistic approach to seafarer health and happiness through policies, services and solutions that promote better onboard physical and mental health.
The aim of OneHealth is to change the perception of healthcare in the maritime industry from viewing healthcare as a cost to viewing healthcare as a value driver and an integral part of ‘Social Investment in Shipping’, addressing not only the obvious physical and mental aspects of wellbeing on board, but also the direct positive impact on important KPI’s as Safety, Preservation of Experience and Risk management. A good and proactive healthcare system means a healthier and happier workforce, leading to less downtime due to sickness or injury, a more motivated and loyal workforce and safer vessel operations.
“We’re really pleased to welcome Ronald as Managing Director for OneHealth by VIKAND as he has a proven track record of strategic and operational success in providing the industry with scalable broadband connectivity,” said Peter Hult (pictured, right), CEO of VIKAND. His experience and knowledge will be invaluable in helping to shape the future growth potential for VIKAND’s proactive healthcare services.
“Our OneHealth by VIKAND approach is to offer support and healthcare advice to seafarers by offering sustainable solutions to enable them keep in the best possible shape in body and soul.”
Commenting on his appointment Ronald Spithout (pictured, left) said: “I am excited to join as Managing Director of OneHealth by VIKAND as I share Peter’s vision to provide the maritime industry with a state of the art comprehensive and proactive healthcare approach to manage seafarers’ physical and mental wellbeing.
“VIKAND is obviously not new to me, but I am excited to see that they have reached a stage whereby they are combining their innovative digital solutions and proven capabilities in physical and mental healthcare in the cruise industry, for use in all commercial maritime environments. Using that combination of technology and medical capabilities represents another step in further enhancing seafarers’ wellbeing which in my mind is instrumental to really drive the bottom line of ship operators and therefore the overall sustainability of the industry.
“I am honoured and enthusiastic to play a role in helping to achieve VIKAND’s goal of becoming the global leader in maritime healthcare.”
New EverClean hull cleaning solution to be showcased at Nor-Shipping
Robotic hull cleaning service EverClean™ will be presented to the maritime industry during next month’s Nor-Shipping exhibition, taking place in Oslo 6-9 June.
Armach Robotics (Armach) technology was highlighted as a ‘solution to watch’ at the end of 2022, having been shortlisted in a Biofouling Innovation Challenge by the Ocean Opportunity Lab and World Ocean Council. Since then, Armach successfully completed its proof-of-concept phase for the hull cleaning system by demonstrating the effectiveness of its hull cleaning robots with a select number of commercial ship operators, and has moved into an early adopter stage with them.
Armach delivers a sustainable and scalable solution in managing biofouling for the global shipping industry, and earlier this year launched EverClean™ - a service providing always clean hulls for ship owners and operators, with the added value of perpetual hull condition monitoring.
Greensea’s sophisticated hull relative navigation technology makes EverClean™ effective and efficient, ensuring that each section of the hull is cleaned without accidental repeat. EverClean’s use of the Armach Vehicles is the enabling factor to offer vessel owners a new, revolutionary way to manage their fleet's hull performance.
“By managing an always clean hull we change the entire dynamic around hull maintenance from an inefficient, episodic or reactionary model to an always clean intelligence-based model,” says Rob Howard, Chief Growth Officer at Armach Robotics. He continues: “By focusing on the ship staying always clean, EverClean™ further enhances operational efficiencies through the constant collection and reporting of important ship hull data to aid in hull change detection and coating system monitoring.”
Strong financial growth for UK P&I Club
The UK P&I Club, a leading provider of P&I insurance and other services to the international shipping community, announces its financial results for the year ended 20 February 2023.
The Club’s gross written premium exceeded $500 million for the first time as the Club expands its fixed premium P&I business. The combined ratio of 104% was an improvement over last year’s 115%. Mutual owned tonnage increased at renewal this year to 153 million GT.
Rising interest rates and global inflation impacted the Club’s investment portfolio, mostly comprised of fixed income assets. In this challenging environment the portfolio reduced by 3.8% in 2022/23.
With a free reserve of $430 million, the Club comfortably meets all regulatory requirements and remains in the ‘AAA’ band of S&P’s capital model.
Nicholas Inglessis, Chairman of UK P&I Club, said: “During the past 12 months the Club has added tonnage from both existing and new Members, as well as developing its offerings in fixed premium and offshore products. The improvement in the combined ratio reflects both the improving pricing environment and the Club’s disciplined underwriting approach.
Andrew Taylor, Chief Executive of the UK P&I Club, said: “The Club excels in building long term partnerships with Members through best-in-class service, supported by the experience and expertise of our people. The Club is underpinned by its financial strength and during the year, our regulatory capital ratio increased from 195% to 200%, demonstrating the ongoing resilience of the Club’s capital base.”
Thenamaris to install Starlink LEO internet solution within Marlink smart hybrid network
Smart network and digital solutions company Marlink will support shipmanager Thenamaris in its digital business transformation with the integration of Starlink within its smart hybrid network.
Thenamaris is an existing user of Marlink’s high throughput Sealink VSAT with L-Band backup in part of its fleet and plans to add new LEO services – to provide an additional layer of capability onboard its vessels – a concept Marlink has created as a next generation solution. Sealink NextGen combines GEO VSAT and MSS back-up with customers’ required mix of LEO or MEO connectivity, 5G and digital solutions, all controlled and managed via Marlink’s Xchange platform.
This combination will provide Thenamaris with a blended network spanning guaranteed bandwidth and best effort services across multiple channels. The result will be an enhanced user experience for crews and shore management teams, with a hybrid approach leveraging advanced software tools.
Designed to meet the next generation of user demand, the combined digital solutions take advantage of software-defined routeing, with applications assigned channels and priority for seamless delivery of data. Marlink will also provision network performance management tools to ensure that vessel managers have visibility on the fleet at all times.
Thenamaris Group is a global manager of a high-specification, modern ocean-going fleet, of a total of 88 vessels, including 50 crude oil and products tankers, 23 bulk carriers and containerships as well as seven LNG carriers and eight LPG carriers.
Thenamaris operates, maintains, crews and trade its principals’ vessels worldwide, ensuring consistently high standards across integrated ship management services, covering commercial, technical, safety and quality and crewing aspects of its diversified portfolio.
“The success of Thenamaris is a testament to our philosophy that safety and quality permeate every aspect of our operations, and that every member of our team is a trusted partner,” said George Tsivgoulis, Electrical Supervisor, Thenamaris. “To be a leader in commercial and technical ship management requires us to constantly be exploring new ways and utilizing cutting-edge technology, to improve efficiency and enhance life onboard ship. It is believed that Marlink’s hybrid approach, now incorporating Starlink, will enable us to achieve these objectives. This belief drives the decision to test the new SATCOM architecture.”
“Marlink continues to play a key role in helping industry leaders like Thenamaris take the next steps on their digital journey and accrue the benefits of new technology to support that transformation,” said Tore Morten Olsen, President, Maritime, Marlink. “We see Sealink NextGen as key to helping vessel operators and managers unlock the benefits of digitalisation and improve connectivity for their crews.”
Goltens Worldwide appoints Sandeep Seth as new group CEO
The Goltens Worldwide group of companies is delighted to announce the appointment of Mr. Sandeep Seth as Chief Executive Officer.
Sandeep is a home-grown success story, having joined Goltens in 2002 and occupied positions of increasing responsibility since then. He will continue to serve as a member of the Board of Directors.
Sandeep’s new title and authority demonstrates the full extent of his responsibilities across the Goltens organization. He has already served since 2019 as company President and highest-ranking officer, successfully leading the organization through the challenges of the Covid-19 pandemic, overseeing the development of new capabilities and business lines, and positioning Goltens for continued growth.
Sandeep has more than 32 years of experience spanning various industries, including 22 years in the marine and offshore sectors.
Prior to joining Goltens, he held various managerial and corporate positions in Asia, Europe and USA including serving as Business Head in Asia and Operations responsible for Global Operations at a large financial research organization. His experience includes working with global companies in industries including manufacturing, technology and finance in the Asia, Middle East, Europe and the US.
Mackay acquires and expands Kilo Marine Electronics, now Mackay Marine U.K.
Mackay Communications, Inc has expanded its worldwide marine electronics Sales & Service presence into the United Kingdom with its acquisition of Kilo Marine Electronics. Kilo, now certified as Mackay Marine U.K., Ltd, is based in London, with service stations throughout the UK.
Nick Pope, MD of Mackay Marine Europe, stated: “Shipping customers have long encouraged Mackay to provide comprehensive Comm & Nav products and services in England, Wales, and Scotland. Mackay has collaborated with Kilo Marine for years and was always impressed with their expertise, success in problem-solving, and attitude of pleasing customers. Kilo Marine thus provides a solid foundation on which Mackay can build a full range of customer solutions.”
Warren Haills, General Manager, Mackay UK shared: “Kilo joined Mackay one year ago in March 2022. The terms of the agreement included a gradual shift to the Mackay brand, allowing customers and staff to acclimate to the changes. The result being we fully retained – and added -- employees, customers, and industry-leading vendors.
“Being part of Mackay has given Kilo access to many resources that will help us increase our capabilities and market presence, whilst retaining the regional customer-focus we’ve carefully cultivated over the last 18 years.”
Mackay and Kilo have enlarged their UK footprint adding service stations in Liverpool and Teesport to Kilo’s existing depots in Edinburgh, Glasgow, London, and Southampton/Portsmouth, with more on the horizon.
Nick Pope concludes: “Working with the existing and added staff has been extremely rewarding. This team has great enthusiasm to succeed and to further the superb reputation established with their customers, especially those based in the UK. Mackay and Kilo have consistently supported each other’s customers and now as a single entity, we’ll strengthen those relationships even further.”
Nautical Institute publishes updated Admiralty Manual of Seamanship
The Nautical Institute’s longstanding co-operation with Britain’s Royal Navy continues with the release this month of the latest edition of The Admiralty Manual of Seamanship.
There have been concerns for some time in the maritime world that safety is being compromised through the loss of traditional seamanship skills. The 13th edition of this comprehensive work aims to redress the balance. It sets out sound seamanship principles and practices that have been developed over many years.
Published jointly by the Royal Navy and The Nautical Institute, The Admiralty Manual of Seamanship is recognised as the leading publication on the subject and has been thoroughly updated for today’s seafarers.
In his foreword, Vice Admiral A P Burns emphasises: “We must never slacken seamanship standards, nor ignore the hard lessons of living and working at sea learned over hundreds of years of experience… I expect all my sailors and officers, whatever your branch or specialisation, to understand good seamanship.”
Subjects covered include maritime terminology; mooring, anchors, cables and buoys; rigging, cranes, derricks and deck gear; towing by tugs and other vessels; boat launch, recovery and handling; water safety, LSAs, MOB rescue and recovery.
The sections on ships dragging anchor, HPMT mooring equipment, pilot ladders and emergency towing systems are among those that have undergone major ‘refits’ since the previous edition of 2015.
The printed volume is accompanied by an ebook (available from the NI online bookshop) that includes five additional chapters covering replenishment at sea; targets, decoys, markers and recoveries; seamanship organisation and upkeep; helmsmanship; and tactical communications.
The straightforward style of writing, the unfussy layout, clear colour diagrams and the comprehensive glossary and index make the book a pleasure to read and refer to. As Vice Adm Burns says in his concluding remarks, the book “is also an interesting and informative read for everyone in uniform, from the most inexperienced young recruit through to the most experienced sea Captains.”
Kongsberg Digital to digitalise Odfjell’s logbook and reporting systems
Odfjell Ship Management is to start the digitalisation of their fleet using a digital logbook system from Kongsberg Digital.
The traditional hand-written logbook onboard a vessel is a vital reporting tool for the crew, stating their course, actions, and engine status. Though an essential daily task for the officers onboard, reporting in the logbook is also time-consuming, making the officers spend critical time reporting during a voyage.
To optimise the crew's efficiency and reduce administrative tasks, Odfjell Ship Management has started its digital voyage by installing Kongsberg Digital's K-fleet digital logbook system. The digital logbook collects data from ship systems into a central data storage. It enables easy recording of event-based data related to navigation, engine, oil record book, garbage handling, port calls and other operational activities defined by the logbooks being supplied.
"Accurate and efficient reporting is very important for us and our crew, and we strongly believe that digitalisation is a necessary step towards improving safety, efficiency, and sustainability in the maritime industry. The traditional hand-written logbook has long been a vital tool for recording the vessel's route, voyage, actions, and engine status. But it can be a time-consuming process. That's why we've taken the step to modernise and optimise our operations by implementing Kongsberg Digital's effective digital logbook and reporting system,” says Vidar Børve, Manager Electrical & Automation at Odfjell.
Kongsberg Digital provides industrial software to heavy asset industries, the maritime industry included. Through the vessel-to-cloud infrastructure Vessel Insight, data is gathered from the vessel's sensors and systems to provide actionable insight from the analysis of operational vessel data. The consistent and standardised way of collecting data through Vessel Insight enables quality reporting, empowers transparency, and allows in-depth analysis to optimise vessel and fleet performance.
Christopher Bergsager, VP Growth Digital Ocean at Kongsberg Digital, says: "The logbook represents the story and heritage of a vessel, making it an essential tool for the crew onboard. Kongsberg Digital is committed to making operations smarter, safer, and greener.
“By digitalising the logbook, shipowners can utilise the historical data of the vessel in a way not possible before, as we can use the data to optimise voyage and fuel consumption. We are happy to welcome Odfjell onboard for their digitalisation journey, and we look forward to a close and great collaboration,"
Seafarers take centre stage at upcoming summit in Manila
The International Chamber of Shipping (ICS), the International Maritime Employers’ Council Ltd. (IMEC) and the International Transport Workers’ Federation (ITF) are joining forces to host a summit solely focused on the shaping the future of an industry that ensures seafarers remain at its heart - in Manila on 26 June 2023.
Director-General of the International Labour Organization (ILO) Gilbert H. Houngbo will open the aptly titled ‘Shaping the Future of Shipping – Seafarer 2050’ summit, which aims to highlight elements required for a successful transformation of seafarers’ roles to meet the needs of shipping in the future. This will include education and training, building capacity and resilience, recruitment and retention of seafarers, and ensuring that any transition is safe, equitable and human-centric.
Recruitment and retention is critical at the moment as it has been estimated that by 2026 the shipping industry will need an additional 90,000 seafarers to keep trade moving.
The summit will bring together government ministers, regulators, shipowners, employers, unions, industry leaders and technology and infrastructure providers into one room to discuss the requirements for seafarers in 2050. As one of the largest providers of seafarers worldwide, the Philippines offers the perfect location to discuss the future of the seafarer workforce.
Secretary of the Department of Transportation of the Philippines, Jamie Bautista, commented: “The upcoming conference in Manila is a key moment in shipping and also for the Philippines as a nation. It is well known that the Philippines is the seafaring capital of the world, and our seafarers are not only integral to the future of the shipping industry but also to our country’s economy.
“We are currently at a crossroad as the industry evolves to a greener and more digital operating environment, with ambitious climate goals to meet by 2050 and new emerging technologies, but one thing is key and that is that seafarers need to be central in the discussions. I am encouraged to see many industry leaders joining the conference and urge fellow Ministers in the region to join in on the conversations. I look forward to discussing the future of our seafarers in June”.
This invitation-only summit will also consider the risks to shipping and global trade inherent in industry transformation, and the investments and changes that will need to be made to ensure that sufficient numbers of skilled seafarers are available to fulfil the requirements of shipping in 2050.
ICS Secretary General Guy Platten commented: “The Covid-19 pandemic shone the light on how vital our seafarer workforce is to modern life. Seafarers are an incredibly valuable asset and we need to ensure that this is recognised at the highest levels. The Seafarer 2050 summit is our opportunity to bring together the shipping industry and determine how we can continue to shape a better future for seafarers and ensure no one gets left behind in the green energy transition.”
Belal Ahmed, Chairman of IMEC commented: “Our industry is facing unprecedented challenges due to climate change and the new technology introduction at a rapid pace. Shipping is vital to global trade and our seafarers are in the centre of this industry.
“IMEC, ITF and ICS recognise that only working together we can face these challenges and ensure our seafarers are trained, taken care of and fit for world of sustainable shipping. The Seafarer 2050 summit will focus not only on the issues we need to work together but also need for a global consensus to support our seafarers”.
Stephen Cotton, General Secretary of the ITF added: “The cooperation we saw during the pandemic-related crew change crisis allowed employers and seafarers’ unions to recognise our common challenges and the strength we have when we speak with one clear voice.
“We welcome this global partnership being taken to the next level with the inclusion of governments from leading maritime nations such as the Philippines. This event is about looking out to 2050, to set out the practical plans needed for a Just Transition and a future-proof workforce.”
Don’t regulate shipping in isolation warns INTERCARGO
Shipping is so global, that only a truly global regulator such as the International Maritime Organization can provide the level playing field needed for this diverse industry and all the nations it serves, says INTERCARGO.
Yet even the IMO, a United Nations agency, must be careful not to create regulations that put shipping in isolation warns the Association, which represents the world’s dry bulk shipping sector.
“Simply regulating shipping alone will bring distortions and dangers to global trade,” advised INTERCARGO chair Dimitris Fafalios. “Ship owners and operators, fuel producers, charterers, cargo owners, shippers and receivers, ports and terminal managers, all share responsibilities in the daily maritime venture that is dry bulk shipping,” he explained.
“Dry bulk shipping, which is already one of the most environmentally friendly bulk transport modes, strongly wants to decarbonise. However, I stress that we cannot do this alone,” he commented.
The American P&I Club renews its commitment to sustainability
The North American Marine Environment Protection Association’s (NAMEPA) ‘Maritime Sustainability Passport’ (MSP) Certificate and Seal has once again been awarded to the American P&I Club.
The American Club successfully met the program's requirements and received its MSP Certificate and Seal, denoting dedication to the marine environment. The program encompasses each of NAMEPA’s Transparency Pillars in its Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) metrics and the Club has demonstrated strong compliance with these pillars.
“Sustainability principles connected to ESG goals have always been strategically embedded in the core purpose and processes of the American P&I Club as a mutual not-for-profit marine insurer, through its Managers, Shipowners Claims Bureau, Inc., in all operational, departmental and service policies and procedures,” remarked Dorothea Ioannou (pictured), CEO of Shipowners Claims Bureau, managers of the American Club.
“Partnering with industry stakeholders such as NAMEPA through their Maritime Sustainability Passport certification process once again in 2023 enhances our visibility in this arena, reflects the significance we place on accountability, and confirms our continuing commitment to these goals.”
The Maritime Sustainability Passport (MSP) Program was developed by NAMEPA and ESGplus LLC as an innovative ESG assessment tool tailored specifically for the maritime industry. Launched in June 2020, the tool enables companies, associations, educators, and individuals in the industry to evaluate their adherence to ESG principles. Covering all three elements of sustainability, the program encompasses Six Transparency Pillars: Waste Management, GHG Emissions, Education, Technology, Social, and Governance.
In 2021, NAMEPA’s MSP program was awarded the 2021 Green4Sea Initiative Award. The Green4Sea award is given to an organization that has sparked, realized, or significantly contributed to a specific initiative toward greener shipping.
ABB unveils revolutionary propulsion concept to significantly increase ship efficiency
ABB has introduced ABB Dynafin™, a new concept representing a revolutionary propulsion system breaking new ground for efficiency in the marine industry. Inspired by the dynamic motions of a whale’s tail, the innovative concept is the result of over a decade of research, development, and testing. ABB’s combined extensive experience and expertise in the marine industry, along with its innovative heritage, are the driving forces behind this new concept. ABB estimates the first prototype to be available in 2025.
“ABB Dynafin™ shows what is possible when marine engineers pursue radical innovation and progress, inspired by the interplay of evolution and technology,” said Juha Koskela, Division President, ABB Marine & Ports. “This solution is all about operational efficiency and emissions avoidance, leveraging innovations from the brightest minds in marine and propulsion engineering. I want to thank the whole team for their persistence, resilience, innovativeness, and years of hard work.”
The new propulsion concept features a main electric motor that powers a large wheel rotating at a moderate 30-80 rounds per minute. Vertical blades, each controlled by an individual motor and control system, extend from the wheel. The combined motion of the wheel and blades generates propulsion and steering forces simultaneously, enabling ground-breaking operational efficiency and precision for ships. The concept follows ABB’s proven design philosophy in marine propulsion of gearless power transmission.
An independent study of ABB Dynafin™ from OSK-ShipTech A/S of a passenger vessel design equipped with different propulsion solutions has verified savings in propulsion energy consumption of up to 22 percent compared to conventional shaftline configuration. This can deliver significant savings in fuel consumption and help to avoid emissions. As part of an electric propulsion power system, the concept is also fully compatible with zero-emission battery and fuel cell technologies.
Initially available in the power range of 1–4 MW per unit, the new propulsion concept is particularly effective for medium-sized and smaller vessels, including ferries for passengers and vehicles, offshore support vessels operating at wind farms, and yachts. By reducing vibrations and noise levels, the system improves passenger and crew comfort. In addition, the propulsion concept delivers superior maneuverability, and positioning performance, i.e., the capacity of the vessel to maintain the desired position and heading.
The new concept is the latest addition to ABB’s portfolio comprising electric, automated and digital technologies. With its market-leading expertise in electric and hybrid propulsion, the company has been pushing the boundaries of technology, and driving efficiency, performance, and sustainability to new levels through the 30-year plus track record of Azipod® propulsion. The new propulsion concept will complement the existing propulsion portfolio.
Sener completes design of new sustainable biofuel tanker capable of capturing CO2 from other vessels
Spain’s Sener technology and engineering group reports that it has successfully completed the conceptual design of a new model of sustainable tanker to supply biofuels during bunkering operations.
The company, with a track record of more than six decades in the naval sector, completed the conceptual design of a multi-product supply vessel that can carry heavy fuel oil (HFO), very low sulphur fuel oil (VLSFO), biofuels and marine gas oils (MGO), and that can also store the captured CO2 from nearby vessels.
The new vessel has been designed to operate in compliance with the energy efficiency and emission reduction requirements of the IMO. The design also includes different technical- economic configurations to help shipowners select the best alternative based on their priorities and needs, such as costs, ease of installation on board, or safety.
The design is intended to allow shipowners to choose different propulsion alternatives (conventional, diesel- electric or hybrid), as well as different types of sulphate cleaning systems (open, closed or mixed) and CO2 capture systems.
Sener's new tanker ship design features a complete emission reduction and management system made up of a CO2 capture and storage system, a selective catalytic reduction, or SCR, system (process to convert nitrogen oxides into diatomic nitrogen and water, with help from a catalyst) and a sulphate cleaning system. It is also set up to store the CO2 captured by other vessels in the vicinity, promoting the capture of this compound in the area of operations, and thus help reduce emissions locally.
Shipping industry’s future fuels transition is cost-prohibitive without adoption of clean technology, says Nippon Paint Marine
The potential cost implications of future fuels will slow the energy transition without the adoption of proven, clean technologies that drive fuel and operational cost efficiencies as part of daily operations. Shipping must act now to adapt and evolve its operations today, to be able to afford the elevated costs of tomorrow’s decarbonised maritime industry, according to Nippon Paint Marine, a global leader in marine coatings.
While there is no ‘silver bullet’ to secure shipping’s decarbonisation, the delivery and uptake of a new generation of viable and proven zero-carbon fuels will be essential to meeting the targets and expectations of regulatory bodies like the International Maritime Organization (IMO), the EU and wider stakeholders in the maritime value chain.
“Shipping companies must take decisive action when it comes to decarbonising the industry,” Mr. Hirozaku Kaji (pictured), Technical Director at Nippon Paint Marine, explains. “Clean technologies that are performance-based, such as advanced marine coatings which are the most widely used in the market, play a key role in driving the immediate reduction in fuel consumption and emissions today, as well as delivering operational efficiencies that will enable the successful transition to future fuels in the medium to longer term.”
There are multiple fuel options on the table to rapidly decarbonise the maritime industry– from increasingly common LNG, methanol, and biofuel solutions to less developed alternatives, such as hydrogen and ammonia. However, the price change compared to current bunkering costs is set to be exponential. Take methanol as an example. It takes two tonnes of methanol to get the same calorific value as one tonne of HFO (19.7 MJ/kilogram compared with 41.8 MJ /kilogram for HFO), so the ‘real’ price to operate a methanol-fuelled vessel is pushed up to $2,000 a tonne; over 300% more than current VLSFO prices, and over 200% more than MGO prices.
“Future fuels will undoubtedly play a critical role in meeting shipping’s decarbonisation targets. However, these cost implications may prove commercially difficult and cost prohibitive for many industry players,” said Mr. Kaji. “Laying the groundwork by adopting clean technologies such as hull coatings can help ship owners and operators improve operational performance and mitigate the increased costs of more expensive future fuels.
“It will also make their assets more competitive in the eyes of their charterers who often pay for the cost of fuel. Implementing a proven and effective low-friction antifouling marine coating for example, can reduce fuel costs and emissions by up to 10% alone compared to using standard antifoulings that do not have proven biomimetic or low-friction properties.”
There is a wide diversity and availability of clean technologies across the shipping industry, and so it is important that ship owners and operators adopt proven solutions based on thorough due diligence and analysis. Working with manufacturers that demonstrate rigour in the R&D and testing process ensures that the claimed efficiency savings can be verified and deliver tangible commercial impact.
Nippon Paint Marine operates at the forefront of technical innovation, investing in state-of-the art R&D facilities to bring to market new marine coatings based on a real-world understanding of the challenges that its customers face. The company is focused on delivering progressive solutions that break new ground and support its customers in meeting the shipping industry’s greatest challenges, accelerating the path to decarbonisation and wider sustainability.
Smart Green Shipping joins forces with NTS as part of environmental shipping initiative
Smart Green Shipping (SGS) is delighted to announce its collaboration with Nuclear Transport Solutions (NTS) as part of the ‘Winds of Change’ project which held its first in-person kick-off meeting at the University of Southampton on 3 May. Winds of Change is a deeply collaborative two-year project to assess technical, commercial and environmental viability of using 21st century wing sail designs to provide direct thrust to commercial ships.
NTS is the leading global provider of safe, secure and reliable nuclear transport solutions. Part of the UK’s Nuclear Decommissioning Authority, it uses specialist transport and logistics expertise to help customers and partners around the world solve complex challenges.
SGS is a systems design and engineering company based in Dumfries that is developing unique retrofit sails and technology for sustainable commercial ships.
Di Gilpin, SGS CEO, said: “To have the opportunity to work with such a highly specialist ship and her deeply knowledgeable crew and managers gives us an excellent opportunity to demonstrate the feasibility of retrofitting SGS FastRig wingsails onto ships with the highest safety standards. If we are successful this will give comfort to shipowners and managers that this technology will not compromise their strict safety protocols.
“Testing the FastRig on land initially ensures we iron out any technical glitches before installing on a working vessel. We are honoured to be able to work with NTS. Our commercial project partners, Drax and MOL Dry Bulk are working with SGS and NTS to define parameters for sea trials; our technical team includes Humphreys Yacht Design, designers of the FastRig; Caley Ocean Systems and Malin Group, FastRig manufacturers; and Houlder who take responsibility for the ship to wing interface. The University of Southampton is working with SGS on verifying real world performance results against the mathematical modelling that predicted between 16% and 27% fuel/GHG savings over an annual period.”
Andy Milling, Marine Manager, at NTS said of the collaboration: “As owners of UK-flagged, high-quality specialist vessels, we are committed to support UK shipping net zero initiatives. We are looking forward to working with SGS to address the highly complex technical challenges that arise from retrofitting wind-assist technology onto merchant vessels.
“Our motivation is to reduce vessel emissions whilst maintaining our high performance and critical delivery schedules. SGS has convened a group of highly experienced technical and commercial organisations to deliver the project and its exciting to see how we will implement this technology with safety, security and reliability remaining our top priorities.”
The ‘Winds of Change’ project will run from April 2023 to March 2025. SGS is currently installing a land-based test and demonstration FastRig at Hunterston Parc in Scotland. The learning from this project informs the safety, technical and performance parameters for the on-ship installation scheduled for2024.
The project is part of the Clean Maritime Demonstration Competition Round 3 (CMDC3), which was announced in September 2022, funded by the Department for Transport and delivered in partnership with InnovateUK. As part of the CMDC3, the Department allocated £60m to 19 flagship projects supported by 92 UK organisations to deliver real world demonstration R&D projects in clean maritime solutions. Projects will take place in multiple locations around the UK from as far north as the Shetland Isles and as far south as Cornwall.
The CMDC3 is part of the UK Shipping Office for Reducing Emission’s (UK SHORE) flagship multi-year CMDC programme. In March 2022, the Department announced the biggest government investment ever in our UK commercial maritime sector, allocating £206m to UK SHORE, a new division within the Department for Transport focused on decarbonising the maritime sector. UK SHORE is delivering a suite of interventions throughout 2022-2025 aimed at accelerating the design, manufacture and operation of UK-made clean maritime technologies and unlocking an industry-led transition to Net Zero.
Inmarsat Maritime launches Fleet Reach, bringing seamless connectivity to ships from sea to port
Inmarsat Maritime, a Viasat business, has announced its new Fleet Reach coastal LTE service for maritime connectivity, which brings uninterrupted high-speed broadband to merchant, offshore, energy and fishing customers – even when they are sailing near the coast or are docked in-port.
Traditionally, coastlines and ports are congested connectivity hotspots. With a high number of people and vessels accessing networks at the same time, connections are not always reliable. This is a regular headache for seafarers around the world, with the average vessel spending up to 40% of its time in-ports or in coastal areas.
Inmarsat Maritime’s Fleet Reach - optimised by Fleet Xpress - offers supercharged coastal connectivity thanks to added terrestrial mobile connectivity. This enables faster speeds, increased signal strength, lower latency and more reliable connectivity when sailing near coasts or docked in-port. This means that seafarers can enjoy consistent connectivity wherever the vessel is, with the service seamlessly switching between technologies to ensure an always-on connection.
Connectivity has a huge impact on operations at sea, where the need to safely collect and distribute data is vital to get the most out of modern systems, especially with the increasing number of sensors and applications onboard ships. It is also vital for crew welfare, helping those onboard keep in touch with family and friends at home, or stay entertained by streaming and gaming. A recent Inmarsat study found demand for these services is currently soaring: with an annual increase of 131% for business applications and a staggering 149% for crew applications.
Fleet Reach also comes with security credentials which far outweigh the existing method of using dongles for connectivity when in-port. This means customers can maintain security standards and policies company-wide, without increased risk of cybersecurity threats.
The new service forms part of Inmarsat ORCHESTRA, the satellite company’s ‘network of networks’ which uses multiple technologies in multiple orbits to deliver connectivity wherever and whenever it is needed. Fleet Reach constantly monitors signal quality and selects the right technology for the best connection as and when required, drawing on mobile terrestrial technologies as well as satellite connectivity to deliver uninterrupted broadband connectivity.
Ben Palmer, President, Inmarsat Maritime, said: “We know the enormous impact that seamless connectivity at sea has for seafarers – both on productivity and crew welfare – especially with so much time being spent in-port. Our new Fleet Reach service - the latest update to our Fleet Xpress solution - is a major step forward, enabling uninterrupted connectivity from sea, to shoreline, to port, and back again, wherever and whenever it is needed.
“The power of Inmarsat’s multi-technology, multi-orbit ORCHESTRA platform is the backbone behind this seismic change in coastal connectivity, taking advantage of our world-class GX constellation as well as terrestrial technologies. Five more Global Xpress satellite payloads and the three recently announced Inmarsat-8 L-band satellites are set to enter service over the coming years to bolster this connectivity and the certainty it brings even further. We look forward to seeing the maritime sector reap the rewards of this consistent, reliable connectivity.”
Fleet Reach is available on regional plans for vessels operating in one region, or multi-regional plans for those sailing around the world. It is powered by Inmarsat’s Fleet Xpress, a uniquely flexible solution using the world’s most advanced satellite constellation to deliver a best-in-class connectivity experience to crew. Fleet Xpress operates as a fully managed service, powered by Inmarsat’s Ka-band Global Xpress network, enabling customers to increase their bandwidth as their digital ecosystem evolves.
'Biggest and best’ Nor-Shipping kicks off in Oslo and Lillestrøm
Today sees the official opening of Nor-Shipping 2023, with a high-profile event at Oslo City Hall, a special bell ringing ceremony at Oslo stock exchange, a UN Global Compact high-level meeting, and a range of other partner and networking activities. Nor-Shipping’s main exhibition, gathering almost 1000 international exhibitors and tens of thousands of delegates, kicks off in Lillestrøm tomorrow, with organisers believing this will be “the biggest and best Nor-Shipping week ever.”
Sidsel Norvik (pictured), Nor-Shipping’s Director, comments: “I’d like to take this chance to welcome the entire world of maritime and ocean industries to Norway. This is the 29th Nor-Shipping and I’ve never known such a sense of excitement as our business gets the chance to re-engage, experience the very latest innovations and developments, share knowledge, access new opportunities and, last but not least, have fun!
“With this Nor-Shipping focusing on enabling and supporting profitable #PartnerShips, this is the ideal arena to come together, and work together, towards a successful, sustainable future. I believe we truly have something for everyone with ocean business ambitions. The atmosphere, the excitement, is already electric - it’s going to be a week to remember.”
The highlights awaiting delegates and participants are myriad. With John F. Kerry, arguably the world’s most high-profile international diplomat, just confirmed for tomorrow’s Ocean Leadership Conference – joining speakers including Dr Andrew Forrest of Fortescue Metals Group, Nobel laureate Joseph E. Stiglitz, and IMO’s Kitack Lim, amongst others – the big names are out in force. A who’s who of industry and thought leaders will also appear throughout the week in the always anticipated Blue Talks.
2023’s programme also boasts the first ever Nor-Shipping Offshore Wind and Offshore Aquaculture Conferences, making the most of opportunities in these rapidly developing segments, as well as the Second Maritime Hydrogen Conference and the Fourth International Autonomy Summit. The newly launched Ocean Campus initiative is also on hand at the exhibition to help bridge the gap between tomorrow’s talent, employers and leading educational institutions.
Finally, the attraction of the week’s ‘social side’ cannot be underestimated, with the Nor-Shipping BBQ and Closing Party lining up alongside a huge array of partner events and the ever-popular AfterWork@AkerBrygge city centre Oslo hotspot.
“This is a people industry,” Norvik adds, “so the ability to meet and showcase products and services face-to-face, and then enjoy some entertainment, good food and refreshments can be the glue that bonds profitable new #PartnerShips together. This is your opportunity to shine. Welcome to Nor-Shipping!”
Delegates and participants should take note that all travel in Oslo’s Zone 1, including from Gardermoen with VY trains, is included with the main Nor-Shipping ticket. The ticket should be downloaded to your phone prior to boarding and arrival to ensure smoother travel and exhibition access.
Leisure group COLUMBIA blue unifies visual identity and branding while delivering exceptional service
A new logo for COLUMBIA Cruise Services signals closer alignment under the COLUMBIA blue portfolio
With business lines growing at a rapid pace, COLUMBIA blue (CB), the leisure group active in yacht and cruise management services, asset management, and lifestyle and concierge services, announces a new logo for COLUMBIA cruise services (CCS) to reflect the company's dynamic and progressive nature. The new logo features a captivating depiction of the ocean at sunset, capturing the essence of leisure and luxury.
"The rebranding of COLUMBIA Cruise Services is an important step in unifying our visual identity across the CB portfolio," said Norman Schmiedl, CEO of CB. "By aligning the CCS logo with other brands under CB, we aim to enhance recognition and reinforce our position as a leader in the leisure services industry."
The rebranding initiative further strengthens the connection between COLUMBIA blue and its parent company, Columbia Group. Leveraging the resources and reputation of Columbia Group, CB is poised to continue its upward trajectory, capitalising on its expanding portfolio of services.
“We are thrilled with the success of COLUMBIA blue and we look forward to seeing continued growth of this unparalleled platform of leisure services,” said Mark O’Neil, CEO of Columbia Group.
As COLUMBIA blue moves forward with its rebranding efforts, the company remains dedicated to delivering exceptional leisure experiences and impeccable service under a strong leadership team. CB announces that Julia Siebert, former Vice President Leisure, Business Development, and Brand Strategy of CB, has been appointed as Chief Operating Officer to further develop the business synergies throughout the CB brands and overall operations performance. The company also announced that Hendrik Stellamanns, current director of Columbia Shipmanagement Germany, will additionally take on the position of COLUMBIA Cruise Services (CCS) Managing Director, alongside Julia Siebert.
First battery electric tug from Sanmar Shipyards delivered to ABS class
Sanmar Shipyards delivered its first battery electric tug to ABS class for Canada-based HaiSea Marine, a joint venture partnership between the Haisla First Nation and Seaspan ULC.
The HAISEA WAMIS harbour tug, the first in its ElectRA 2800SX series, will be part of a fleet of harbour and escort tugs providing services to LNG Canada’s future terminal in British Columbia and is equipped with two steerable, fixed pitch (FP), azimuthing, L-drive propulsion units powered by electric motors integrated on top of each unit. The tug’s fully electric propulsion system is supported by its innovative battery energy storage system.
“ABS is a leader in the marine industry for supporting and enabling the electrification of assets,” said Vassilios Kroustallis, ABS Senior Vice President, Global Business Development. “Hybrid electric power systems offer the opportunity to improve safety, reliability, operational efficiency, and reduce the fuel consumption, environmental footprint, and equipment maintenance when compared to traditional electrical power systems.”
“We were pleased to work with all of our partners to deliver this state-of-the-art, fully electric harbour tug,” said Hakan Tunc, Engineering Director of Sanmar Shipyards.” We appreciate the critical role ABS played, providing class services and supporting safety throughout the design and construction.”
Inmarsat Maritime’s Decarbonisation Toolkit presents framework for successful transition to a greener future
Inmarsat Maritime, a Viasat business, has published its Decarbonisation Toolkit, which outlines a practical blueprint for decarbonisation in the maritime industry.
Compiled by maritime innovation consultancy Thetius, the report uses real life examples to set out a framework across three domains of energy transition: ‘Operation’, ‘Ship’ and ‘Human Element’.
At the operational level, voyage optimisation is a particularly effective means of decarbonisation. In September 2022, Scandinavian shipping company Wallenius Wilhelmsen announced its intention to adopt an AI-based voyage optimisation system across its 120-vessel fleet. The announcement followed the company’s 18-month trial of a performance-routing solution that yielded a 6.9% increase in vessel efficiency, equating to a projected 170,000-tonne carbon dioxide equivalent (CO2e) reduction in emissions with a fleet-wide roll-out.
Alongside voyage optimisation, collaboration and data sharing could play a key role in lowering emissions. In February 2023, KCC Chartering and integrated energy company Raízen signed a three-year contract of affreightment targeting more energy-efficient operations through improved charterer–cargo owner communications and data exchange. By minimising legs in ballast and improving the efficiency of loading and discharge processes, the partnership is expected to result in a 40% reduction in the carbon intensity of its agreement.
Under ‘ship’, other methods include port-call optimisation and green corridor schemes, while tools available for decarbonising the vessel itself include carbon capture and storage, optimised hull design, energy-saving coatings and devices, wind propulsion, future fuels and connectivity and data-exchange infrastructure.
For example, in the first quarter of 2023, ship management company Eastern Pacific announced the successful installation of carbon capture and filtering technology on board the chemical tanker Pacific Cobalt. Installed in the ship’s stack, the system will capture up to 40% of the vessel’s carbon dioxide emissions, filtering out sulphur and particulate matter from the exhaust gases.
The ‘human element’, meanwhile, relies on behavioural economics and change management in addition to skilled decarbonisation teams. According to the report, crews should be trained in the new technology and processes that enable greener shipping operations, and they must be willing to embrace the changes that the maritime energy transition entails.
Ben Palmer, President, Inmarsat Maritime, said: “The key to a successful decarbonisation strategy lies in implementing a practical, data-backed plan for the application of solutions that support greener, more efficient shipping companies today and for decades to come. As a long-standing technology partner to the international maritime industry, Inmarsat remains committed to supporting businesses in overcoming their challenges, seizing their opportunities and achieving their decarbonisation goals.”
Matthew Kenney, Principal Research Consultant, Thetius, said: “It is overly simplistic to think of decarbonisation as a compliance issue alone. Companies that have made proactive moves to seize the opportunities of decarbonisation are already seeing return on their investments. Carbon footprints are being reduced at the voyage, vessel and fleet level, and fuel costs, time and effort are being saved as a result. This report examines some of these achievements and maps out a practical blueprint to success.”
Newport Shipping and NSB Group jointly offer ship conversion WIDENING to meet EEXI and CII regulations
Newport Shipping and NSB Group announce that they have signed a co-operation agreement for the provision of maritime services and products. This latest co-operation agreement also includes NSB’s ship WIDENING design for containerships in conjunction with turnkey service provider Newport Shipping’s specialized solutions for ship repair and retrofit services.
This concept is an option for ship owners looking to expand the lifetime of their fleet and to meet the international decarbonization reduction regulations. The concept is about widening a container vessel in breadth whilst the existing main engine remains the same. Furthermore, other options are for bulbous bow optimisation and propeller retrofit.
During the WIDENING process, the amount of reefer plugs can be increased to get more flexibility in the stowage plan. NSB has already carried out three ship widening projects. The vessels were widened at the HRDD shipyard in China. The container intake grew from 4.872 TEU and 560 reefer plugs to 6.296 TEU and 1.131 reefer plugs. The three ships are in service for MSC.
Markus Thewes, Chief Commercial Officer of NSB adds:: “With this design existing vessels can reach a better environmental rating in terms of EEXI and CII. The increased container capacity is generating higher earning potential along with a higher asset value.”
Ingmar Loges, Managing Director (Hamburg), Newport Shipping comments: “Working with the Germany-based ship management group will provide opportunities for both companies allowing them to cater for a wider range of customers.”
Newport Shipping also works with leading financial sources who seek sustainable financing projects. In relation to this latest cooperation Newport Shipping will also look to obtain conditional funding approval for the retrofit programme, if applicable.
Human presence in navigation ‘vital’ despite digitalisation: MENAS
Digitalisation can only go so far in protecting safe navigation in busy shipping lanes with human involvement essential in guarding against electronic failure, according to a leading provider of Aids to Navigation (AtoN) in the Middle East Gulf.
While there are clear benefits associated with the advancement of digital technology and Artificial Intelligence, organisations like the Middle East Navigation Aids Service (MENAS) firmly believe that human presence remains essential, especially in cases of electronic failure onboard.
In recent years, the maritime industry has witnessed a significant shift towards digitalisation, with advanced navigation systems and automated technologies becoming prevalent on ships. While digitalisation offers numerous advantages, such as improved efficiency and enhanced safety features, MENAS highlights the inherent limitations of relying solely on electronic systems.
During the 20th IALA Conference in Brazil, Mahdi Al Mosawi (pictured), MENAS General Manager, spoke to delegates on the core challenges associated with digitalisation and how AtoN technicians navigate the current challenges in a digital world.
"Digitalisation is transforming the maritime sector, bringing unparalleled benefits in terms of navigation accuracy and operational efficiency and low cost,” he said. “However, it is crucial to acknowledge that electronic systems are not infallible. In the event of an electronic failure or malfunction, human intervention and expertise is essential to ensure the safety of vessels, crew, and cargo."
Accredited by IALA and Trinity House as a training organisation, MENAS emphasised the importance of well-trained technicians and AtoN engineers onboard ships who can provide maintenance to prevent AtoNs failures and accidents. In situations where electronic systems may experience glitches, technicians can make informed decisions to fill these gaps, ensuring ships navigate safely. The combination of human judgement and technological support remains a vital aspect of reliable and secure navigation.
Additionally, MENAS highlights the role of human operators in interpreting and contextualising data provided by digital systems. While automation offers real-time information and predictive analytics, it is the experience and intuition of human navigators that allow for a comprehensive understanding of complex maritime environments. These skilled professionals possess the ability to identify potential hazards, adapt to changing circumstances, and mitigate risks effectively.
Mr Al Mosawi concludes: "At MENAS, we believe that a harmonious integration of digital technologies and human expertise is the best approach to ensure the highest level of safety. While digitalisation brings undeniable advantages, it is vital to recognise that humans remain an indispensable element in maritime operations."
As the maritime sector continues to evolve, MENAS remains at the forefront of championing the effective integration of digitalisation while recognising the crucial role of training to contribute to a safer and more secure maritime environment.
Majority of global maritime industry underestimates negative impact of biofouling: Jotun
Almost two thirds (59%) of the shipping industry underestimate the negative environmental impacts of biofouling, with as much as 1 in 4 claiming to know little about the issue, a new report by Jotun has found.
Biofouling is caused by the build-up of micro-organisms, plants, algae, and other small aquatic animals on the hull of a ship which can result in significant operational impacts. The marine growth which clings to the underside of a ship’s hull, reduces speed and maneuverability, causes the captain to power up and use more fuel to compensate for speed loss, and in extreme cases, can damage the hull.
The survey of 100 shipping industry professionals, conducted by Lloyd’s List on behalf of the specialist marine coatings manufacturer in May this year [2023], follows on from the recent GloFouling report published in partnership with the International Maritime Organization (IMO). This found that maritime transportation is responsible for 3% of the world’s total Green House Gas emissions but should vessels operate with a clean hull free from biofouling, CO2 emissions could be slashed by a fifth and fuel spend reduced by 19%.
The latest research by Jotun shows that the industry has a long way to go before achieving such gains. Just over a third of shipping companies (38%) said they invest in biofouling solutions outside of dry-docking, a process which tends to be conducted in five-yearly cycles.
Lack of awareness and cost-limitations were cited as the main reasons why 62% of shipping companies only invest in biofouling solutions during the dry-docking period. However, the GloFouling report showed that a ship could save as much as $6.5m on fuel costs over a five-year period by adopting proactive hull and propeller cleaning.
Morten Sten Johansen, Global Marketing Director, Hull Performance Category at Jotun, said: “If the shipping industry took a more proactive approach to hull cleaning, we as an industry could save as much as 198 million tonnes of CO21, according to global estimations published by the IMO in 2022. This is more than six times the volume produced by the nation of Norway annually.
“However, an issue which is often overlooked is the potentially catastrophic impact biofouling can have on biodiversity through the spread of invasive aquatic species, such as Pacific oysters which are plaguing European coastlines. The responses to our survey showed that this is still an incredibly misunderstood issue, with only 14 percent believing it posed a significant risk.
“As well as being more fuel efficient and lowering emissions, proactive cleaning would reduce the risks ships pose to international waterways and maintain the shipping industry’s right to operate.”
The survey highlighted the positive impacts of new Carbon Intensity Indicator (CII) regulations, with 88% of shipping industry professional saying they expect tackling biofouling to form part of their strategy to improve fuel efficiency, reduce greenhouse gas emissions and support environmental policies.
Morten Sten Johansen added, “It’s encouraging to see the impact new policies are already having on the industry and it’s likely that we’ll face more regulatory challenges in the future. Decarbonization is vital and adopting new regulations to deliver the long-term goals of the Paris Agreement requires significant collaboration from industry and policymakers.
“But as we’re a global industry, it is imperative that we take a united international approach if we are to succeed in reducing emissions, preserving fuel and protecting the oceans’ biodiversity.”
Jotun is unveiling the full research during this year’s Nor-Shipping as part of its aim to highlight the issue of biofouling among the global shipping community, fostering a cleaner and greener maritime sector which will meet the IMO’s ambitious decarbonization targets.
Clarksons provides updates on green technology and offshore wind as Nor-Shipping preview
In its latest weekly insight for the shipping industry, analyst Clarksons Research has previewed this week’s Nor Shipping with its MD Steve Gordon (pictured) commenting as follows:
A key element in shipping’s vital decarbonisation pathway (today shipping emits 2.1% of global CO2) will be a transition to a “greener” fleet and many from the 1,000 strong exhibitor list at Nor-Shipping will be marketing innovative solutions around Energy Saving Technologies (ESTs), alternative fuel solutions and routing optimisation software.
Our latest Green Technology Tracker profiles progress with 5.5% of fleet capacity today alternative fuelled, up from 2.3% in 2017 and expected to reach 8% by 2025. Although alternative fuelled newbuild ordering has been a little slower in 2023 to date - albeit with a relative trend towards methanol: 14% of orders by tonnage vs 22% dual fuel LNG - 48% of overall orderbook capacity is now alternative fuelled versus 11% in 2017.
The orderbook also has plenty of optionality built in with 371 LNG ‘ready’ orders, 191 ammonia ‘ready’, 130 methanol ‘ready’ and 9 hydrogen ‘ready’.
Many suppliers at Nor-Shipping will be busy promoting ESTs. We estimate significant ESTs have already been fitted on over 6,250 ships, accounting for 27.3% of fleet tonnage: this includes propeller ducts (>2,000), rudder bulbs (>1,600), Flettner rotors (>20), wind kites and rigid sails (>12), air lubrication systems (>350) and others.
Scrubbers are now fitted to over 5,050 ships in the fleet, equivalent to 25% of total tonnage; retrofitting activity remains at relatively low levels but orders for newbuildings have picked up marginally in 2023, with reported orders already surpassing last year's total.
'Eco' ships make up a growing share of the fleet (eco 'modern' vessels now 30.4% of total GT vs 14.6% at start-2018). As we have discussed previously, there will be implications for earnings potential, asset values and increasingly ‘tiered’ and complex charter markets as this green fleet transition evolves.
And for shipyards exhibiting, there is the opportunity for huge fleet renewal requirements - we estimate $1.6 trillion of newbuild orders in the next 10 years although investment may be ‘lumpy’ as technology, regulations and yard capacity evolve.
Offshore wind is a hugely exciting sector that we expect to play a vital role in global energy transition - today we estimate that 0.4% of global energy is produced by offshore wind but that this could grow to between 7% and 9% by 2050.
We have been closely tracking all wind farm projects globally - we forecast there could be over 30,000 turbines and 740 farms producing 250 GW by 2030 compared to 12,000 turbines, 280 farms and 60 GW today - as well as a specialised fleet that is quickly developing to support construction and maintenance.
At the other end of the spectrum, Offshore oil and gas (Norway has rich heritage and expertise here) still produces 16% of global energy and, after many years in the ‘doldrums’, day rates and utilisation are improving as the world tries to balance energy transition with energy security needs.
Tärntank wins Nor-Shipping’s 2023 Next Generation Ship Award
The hybrid tankers being built for Danish tanker operator Tärntank, with technology and engineering provided by Kongsberg Maritime, have won the 2023 Nor-Shipping Next Generation Ship Award.
The honour was announced yesterday at Oslo City Hall. Nominations and the award went to vessels that are “trailblazing” for their smart, sustainable maritime operation. Organisers described this year’s competition as “intense”.
Tärntank’s three, 15,000dwt hybrid tankers can operate on diesel, biofuel or methanol, and feature wind-assist technology plus Tärntank’s own battery-powered Hybrid Solution®. Kongsberg Maritime provided design, engineering and equipment for the vessels, which are being built in China. The project beat three other finallists, which were selected by an international jury that included Award President Remi Eriksen, Group President and CEO, DNV.
“Given how strong all the entries were for this year’s award, I am extremely proud of our achievement,” said Lisa Edvardsen Haugan, President of Kongsberg Maritime. “This award is a testament that Kongsberg solutions on emissions reduction lead the way and offer ship owners truly effective and competitive methods to achieve their sustainability targets.”
The nominated vessels were assessed across the key criteria of energy efficiency, innovation, suitability and flexibility, technology utilisation, safety and security, and environmental sustainability. This year saw three of four entries that featured wind-assist technology.
The new Tärntank tankers will reduce carbon emissions using a combination of clean technologies. The wind-assist technology alone is expected to reduce emissions by up to 19%. The new vessels are to have an Energy Efficiency Design Index close to 40% below the 2025 Phase 3 requirements.
Nor-Shipping 2023 runs from 6-9 June in Lillestrøm and Oslo.
Biofuel key to maritime decarbonisation, but proliferation challenged by scarce supply, says DNV
DNVs latest white paper “Biofuels in shipping” finds that the flexibility of biofuels can enable the shipping industry to accelerate its journey towards decarbonisation while maintaining operational efficiency. Current limitations in production capacity, however, may impact short-term supply and create stiff competition with other sectors.
With the shipping industry getting ready to meet decarbonization requirements, the use of biofuels is on the rise. The current global production capacity of sustainable biofuels is around 11 million tonnes of oil equivalent (Mtoe) per year. DNV predicts that a sustainable and economically viable supply of biofuels, ranging from 500 to 1300 Mtoe annually, can be achieved by 2050.
However, to fully decarbonise shipping using biofuels, in combination with energy efficiency measures, an annual supply of 250 Mtoe of sustainable biofuels is required by 2050. This would represent 20-50% of potential global production.
“Biofuels are poised to play a notable role in the decarbonisation of shipping.” said Eirik Ovrum, Principal Consultant in DNV Environment Advisor. “Nevertheless, existing constraints on production capacity and competition from other sectors is likely to impact short-term supply to the maritime industry.
“A major build-up of sustainable production capacity is needed before biofuels can reach their full potential and thus shipping’s goal of decarbonizing will need to be achieved in combination with energy efficiency measures as well as use of other low carbon fuels alternatives.”
Regulatory developments, such as The EU Emissions Trading System (EU ETS), present a strong incentive for embracing biofuels, making both biofuels and biomass highly sought after by various sectors as they strive for decarbonization. These resources are also currently being used in cooking, water and space heating, as well as timber and pulp and paper production posing some challenges to production capacity and availability.
The white paper addresses these challenges by shedding light on the potential role of biofuels in enabling the decarbonization of shipping, while also offering practical advice on the necessary preparations before integrating biofuels onboard vessels.
A copy of the white paper is downloadable from the DNV website.
Ardmore Shipping gets carbon capture ready with Value Maritime’s emissions-reducing technology
Leading product and chemical tanker company Ardmore Shipping Corporation has ordered Value Maritime’s (VM) carbon capture ready and emissions-reducing Filtree systems, including the Clean Loop system, for a further three MR Tankers.
Having already signed for six Filtrees at the end of last year, the additional three ships to be made carbon capture ready for collecting CO2 emissions onboard in the future are Ardmore Engineer, Ardmore Exporter and Ardmore Seavanguard. Taking place during regularly scheduled drydocks, the Filtree units will be installed in the first quarter of 2024 at yards in Asia. Timing installations in this way ensures zero disruption to the commercial activities of Ardmore’s vessels.
The VM Filtree system is based on innovative technology that filters sulphur, CO2 and 99% of ultra-fine particulate matter from the tankers’ exhaust stream. The system uses a Clean Loop mechanism which additionally filters its own wash water, removing oil residues and particulate matter, ensuring the pH neutral value of the discharge water.
The plug-and-play Filtree system to be installed on the Ardmore tankers will be outfitted with a modular CO2 capture and storage system to help reduce further emissions. CO2 is captured from the vessel's exhaust and stored in tanks onboard. This is then discharged onshore where it can be used, for example, in the sustainable cultivation of greenhouse crops, methanol plants, and even the food industry.
Yvette van der Sommen, Director Asia Pacific - Value Maritime: “You know you are headed in the right direction when you see your clients returning to expand their use of your emission-reducing technology and continuing to develop greener operations with you. The value, instant impact on ship’s emissions and quick return on investment is clear for us to see, and we’re heartened that Ardmore Shipping sees it too.”
The Filtree system offers a rapid return on investment for customers in Ardmore’s position. Due to the Filtree system’s removal of sulphur from the exhaust gas flow, Ardmore can cut its emissions today while continuing to sail with more cost-effective high-sulphur fuel. Additionally, this positively affects the vessel's performance and maintenance requirements and requires zero downtime.
Garry Noonan, Director of Innovation - Ardmore Shipping “Regarding technology, we firmly believe in collaborating with business and technical partners to create solutions addressing the energy transition. As we adopt what might be referred to as the next generation in exhaust gas cleaning system technology, Value Maritime's Filtree is exceptional in that it not only cleans and neutralizes overboard discharge but also offers an additional benefit in the form of a potential carbon capture upgrade. This gives us flexibility today while economically and efficiently future-proofing our vessels for tomorrow.”
Value Maritime’s vision is to dramatically decrease the environmental footprint of shipping and significantly contribute to improving the overall sustainability of the maritime industry. Since 2017, their technology has been helping shipowners and operators to increase their competitiveness by achieving valuable emission reductions and financial savings.
Value Maritime is a fast-growing and innovative company that is sustainable by nature with a team that is dedicated to making an impact.
Sperry Marine to supply bridge systems to innovative newbuildings for SAL Heavy Lift
Sperry Marine has secured the contract to deliver complete navigation systems including its VisionMaster Net bridge, NAVIGAT gyrocompass and NAVIPILOT 4500N autopilot for four vessels under construction for SAL Heavy Lift at WuHu shipyard, China.
Sperry Marine’s VM Net bridge system provides connected navigation and can be supported remotely, reducing the requirement for in-person service calls. VM Net is designed for simplified deployment and increased system availability, creating the foundation for ‘big data’ on the vessel to improve operational efficiency while reducing through-life costs.
The NAVIGAT 3500 fibre optic gyrocompass provides highly accurate pitch/heave information which is particularly important for safe operations under loaded conditions. The NAVIGAT family of compasses provide superior heading measurement in all kinds of dynamic conditions with compatibility to Sperry Marine CompassNet, the industry’s first networked heading management system.
NAVIGAT 3500 can also contribute to fuel efficiency gains, supporting course optimisation using Sperry’s NAVIPILOT 4500N autopilot, which is proven to reduce rudder drag, further improving the performance of the vessels. Part of the NAVIPILOT series of autopilot systems, NAVIPILOT 4500N is designed to deliver improved course-keeping with reduced fuel consumption and lower workload on the bridge.
HAL’s new vessels will feature methanol-ready propulsion systems and zero emission port operations thanks to ‘cold-ironing' connections to shoreside electricity. The vessels feature powerful, fast and fully electric cranes with 1,600 tonnes of lifting capacity.
“We have designed our ORCA-class ships to be the most efficient vessels in their class with fuel consumption and carbon emission figures far superior to any existing heavy lift vessels,” said Dr Martin Harren, owner and CEO of SAL Heavy Lift. “Our decision to select Sperry Marine as our navigation solutions partner was based on their ability to deploy systems that meet our demanding requirements.”
"This agreement demonstrates Sperry Marine’s ability to support the primary goals of SAL’s newbuilding programme, providing advanced solutions for safety of navigation as well as greater vessel efficiency and fuel savings,” said James Collett, Managing Director, Sperry Marine. "Equipping these highly specialised ships calls for a unique blend of technical expertise and close co-ordination between SAL and Sperry’s global teams.”
WinGD and Mitsubishi Shipbuilding sign MoU for ammonia collaboration
Swiss marine power company WinGD and Japanese shipbuilder and technology developer Mitsubishi Shipbuilding Co., Ltd. have signed a memorandum of understanding to enter into a partnership on ammonia-fuelled vessels.
The project will see WinGD applying its X-DF-A ammonia-fuelled engines to a range of vessel designs, with Mitsubishi both designing the vessels and completing the fuel chain with its ammonia fuel supply system (AFSS).
Manabu Kawakado, Head of Marine Engineering Centre, Mitsubishi Shipbuilding Co., Ltd. said: “This collaboration will give both Mitsubishi and WinGD an important first-mover advantage in using ammonia in marine engines to meet IMO decarbonisation targets. It will set the path for the new generation of technology applicable to a wide range of vessels over the next decades.”
Under the partnership, WinGD will develop X-DF-A engines at appropriate sizes for the vessel designs, providing Mitsubishi with the specifications for installing the engines and the requirements for all auxiliary fuel systems. Mitsubishi will design the vessels, set performance parameters for the engines and further develop its existing AFSS for use with WinGD’s ammonia engines.
Dominik Schneiter, Vice President R&D, WinGD said: “This project will allow WinGD and Mitsubishi to make further progress in bringing ammonia-fuelled capability to merchant vessels within our established future fuel development timeframe. It is a timely opportunity to apply X-DF-A engines across a wider range of bore sizes. Our aim is to develop the applicability of these engines and their critical fuel elements across multiple vessel types, while upholding the highest standards for environmental impact and for the safety of the crew on board.”
The project will commence in the third quarter of 2023, with a timeline considered that could place vessels in service by 2027.
Kongsberg unveils range of next generation platform supply and anchor handler vessels
Kongsberg Maritime has this week unveiled a new range of ship designs in its extensive UT Design portfolio. The new anchor handler (AHT) and platform supply vessels (PSV) have the option to include alternative energy sources and fuels, such as methanol, ammonia, and hybrid-battery power.
Kongsberg has been a leader in the design of PSV and AHT vessels for 50 years, with hundreds in service globally. The next generation designs for both platform supply and anchor handler share a range of innovations to help ship owners address current and future challenges around efficiency, emissions reduction and developing market requirements.
The AHT and PSV designs have received Approval in Principle from class society DNV to operate with ammonia-fuelled engines and they can incorporate an offshore charging capable plug-in hybrid option, to enable emission-free battery-powered operation.
Einar Vegsund, Director, Ship Design Solutions, Kongsberg Maritime, said: “Kongsberg’s iconic UT vessels have been the benchmark design for the offshore industry for the past 50 years. These latest designs combine decades of experience and the latest innovative Kongsberg technologies to offer customers next-generation ships that are equipped for the future.
“Our ship designs continue to evolve, and changes to regulations and uncertainty around preferred fuels have driven the demand to create ships that are ready for the future and give owners the confidence to invest, knowing their ships can adapt to meet future requirements.”
Martijn de Jongh, Chief Designer Specialised Vessels, Kongsberg Maritime, added: “A great deal of work has gone into ensuring this new range of ships gives owners a reduction in environmental footprint. We have drawn on the results of numerous R&D programmes including hydrodynamic optimisation, assessing offshore battery charging and in cooperation with Amon Maritime, obtained the Approval in Principle for the use of ammonia as a fuel.
“One of the great innovations the anchor handler design offers is significantly reduced energy consumption during anchor operations. This is achieved through the use of Kongsberg’s cross-tensioning system where the load testing of anchors will use the power of the winches rather than the traditional approach of one or more vessels using bollard pull and engine power. This approach will lead to significant operational cost savings, enabling this crucial offshore task to be handled by a single ship”.
The anchor handler range, known as UT 7800, will eventually include four sizes, ranging from small to extra-large, with bollard pulls of 180 tons for the small version, increasing to over 400 tons for the largest version of the ship.
Martijn de Jongh adds: “The UT 7800 has been designed for initial operation in the traditional oil and gas anchor handling market, but it is very adaptable for future offshore energy developments, such as floating wind. While we are also designing ships specifically for the offshore wind market, the UT 7800 range has the benefit of being able operate at first in oil and gas, then, if desired, it can be adapted to serve operations in new, evolving markets.”
Kongsberg offers a choice of winch configurations and capacities, as well as adaptable chain and rope handling and storage capacity. ROVs and cranes can also be integrated into the designs. For the largest vessels, the deck equipment and arrangement has been optimised for the larger dimensions and weights of the rope, chain and equipment than is typical within oil and gas, enabling operations outside these traditional markets.
Today there are hundreds of Kongsberg designed platform supply vessels in operation around the world. The new PSV design range (UT 7400) has all the necessary features to address the latest regulations for the transport of the liquid products and the growing requirement for lower emissions and environmental footprint, including energy consumption reduction, and readiness for future fuel transition.
The Kongsberg PSV range of designs comes with a variety of options for the type of cargo, cargo volume and cargo deck area, which can be configured depending on the operational profile of the vessel. The cargo area has been re-designed and provides options for the various products compliant with the latest OSV Chemical Code regulations, ensuring the safe transportation and storage of hazardous materials, while optimising the structural arrangement.
NAPA and Simwave partner to improve access to stability training for seafarers and ship operators
Global provider of maritime software and data services NAPA has announced a partnership with Simwave, a leading maritime training provider, to facilitate access to advanced stability training for seafarers and ship operators, both in person and remotely.
This partnership aims to make critical safety training more accessible, convenient, and efficient for crews, increasing the number of seafarers receiving such training. This will strengthen officers’ and crews’ knowledge of stability principles and help ensure the best possible use of NAPA Stability and Loading Computer software on board, improving safety levels for passengers, crew members and vessels.
Under the agreement, Simwave instructors will be certified to deliver NAPA Stability and NAPA Loading Computer training for cruise officers at Simwave’s state-of-the-art training centre in Rotterdam. Using NAPA’s extensive ship-specific database and software licenses, Simwave will be able to offer hyper-realistic training, reproducing a real onboard experience in its 5,000 m² installations, which are equipped with 59 maritime simulators.
Furthermore, the partnership aims to integrate NAPA eLearning course into Simwave’s Career Management platform, adding one of the world’s most advanced stability theory courses to its extensive portfolio. This will give seafarers flexible and convenient options to increase their knowledge of the fundamentals of safety and stability theory and learn how to use NAPA’s stability management software, wherever they are in the world.
Marcel Kind, CEO & Founder at Simwave, said: “At Simware, we strive to provide the best and most effective training services to seafarers, shipowners, and operators. We are proud to announce this partnership, which brings together Simwave’s cutting-edge training capabilities with NAPA’s world-class safety software and training tools.
“Safety and stability training is undoubtedly an essential part of the knowledge and expertise needed by today’s crews, and we are proud to team up with NAPA to add this new specific training to our portfolio. This will help us make seafarer training for ship stability management easier to access, in a classroom or online, while also boosting the quality and efficiency of such training. By doing so, we are supporting shipping’s efforts to deliver more sustainable shipping, safely.”
While the agreement primarily focuses on the cruise industry, the eLearning stability theory module will also be valuable for other shipping segments.
Esa Henttinen, Executive Vice President, Safety Solutions, NAPA, said: “Sustainable and smarter shipping demands the adoption of a wide range of new technologies on board, and this poses a tremendous upskilling challenge to ensure that our safety training capabilities keep up with the fast-evolving technical landscape on board.
“There are approximately 250,000 seafarers on cruise ships alone. Ensuring that these professionals have access to the latest, most immersive, and effective training, especially as they are tasked with implementing new technologies and processes, is essential to the maintenance of high safety standards.”
Survitec digitalises ship safety management with new interactive graphical monitoring solution SMARR-TI
Global Survival Technology solutions provider Survitec aims to substantially improve onboard ship safety with a new interactive safety management solution. The solution, a Safety Management and Rapid Response Technology Interface (SMARR-TI), uses a graphical monitoring interface to integrate fire detection and fire suppression systems within one system.
SMARR-TI, which Survitec developed in cooperation with Turkish shipyard Tersan and Norway’s Havila Voyages, is already in operation on a pair of 15,500gt passenger ships.
“SMARR-TI is unique in that it can integrate both fire detection and fire suppression systems within one easy-to-use solution; there is currently no other digitised safety monitoring solution like this. What sets it apart is that it is interactive,” says Rafal Kolodziejski, Head of Product Support and Development at Survitec. “The aim is to give early warning of changes in a quick and effective way, and then to enable swift action to prevent a fire from happening.”
SMARR-TI, which supplements SOLAS requirements for general arrangement plans to be permanently exhibited for the guidance of the ship’s officers and crew, can provide a digital interactive plan of the entire ship’s fire defence systems, encompassing fire prevention, fire detection, and fire suppression.
By way of a 27-inch touchscreen monitor on the bridge and in the engine control room, the crew can monitor and operate the ship’s fire defences simply and easily. Real-time status indication is paired with alerts and notifications to warn of temperatures exceeding set limits, or the presence of smoke or flame. SMARR-TI then activates automatically to sound the alarm, close fire doors & fire dampers, shut down ventilation, activate CCTV cameras and trigger signals to the alarm monitoring system, SMS interface, and public announcement system.
“The idea for a digital graphical monitoring system was already being developed by our engineers when we won the contract for the first Havila vessel,” says Vassilis Georgossopoulos, Sales Manager, Newbuild, Survitec. “We realised that the ship’s profile fitted perfectly with the concept. The yard and owner agreed, and we started developing this as part of the project.”
Tersan is carving a niche in the LNG, hybrid, and 100% battery-powered vessel market and contracted Survitec to supply a fire safety package for two new ships for Havila Voyages, Havila Capella and Havila Castor. The first of these, Havila Capella, features the world’s largest battery pack installed on a passenger ship and won the Next Generation Ship Award at Nor-Shipping 2022.
In addition to SMARR-TI, Survitec supplied an XFLOW water mist system for accommodation, machinery spaces and electrical rooms; a CO2 drenching system for the galleys and ducts; a dry chemical powder (DCP) system for LNG bunkering stations, and an N2 inert gas system.
“We were looking for a safety technology partner that could integrate a myriad of safety systems into a single control and monitoring system,” says Adnan Baris Arda, Project Manager, Tersan.
“Survitec’s proposal was exactly what we required for the Havila ships. The solution we developed in cooperation with Havila enables the crew to understand the safety status more easily and quickly in all compartments, decks, cabins and spaces onboard the ship. SMARR-TI acts as a ‘vessel monitoring brain’. Building new systems is a tough process, especially on a prototype vessel, and an open dialogue is the key to success. One of the most valuable aspects of working with Survitec on this product was the flexibility and can-do attitude of the automation department throughout the design process. It is straightforward to install and operate.”
Following its successful collaboration with Tersan and Havila on the first ships in the batch, Survitec has received further orders for a similar scope of supply to the Havila Polaris and Havila Pollux, both sets to be delivered by summer 2023.
The company has also won contracts with Turkey’s Cemre shipyard, adding the solution as an optional extra to the Survitec safety packages it is installing on a fishing vessel for a Norwegian owner, and a passenger ferry for a Danish owner.
Visitors to this week’s Nor-Shipping trade fair will be able to learn more about SMARR-TI in Hall C on Stand C02-46.
OneLink’s Oceanly bridges decarbonisation and digitalisation to drive savings across Columbia fleet
An innovative cloud-based performance software that takes fleet remote monitoring and subsequent reductions in fuel use and decarbonisation to a new level, is to be installed on the Columbia Group’s managed fleet.
Oceanly forms an important part of OneLink, a customisable solution which brings together a number of performance platforms under one umbrella, helping maritime operators manage the complexities of vessel performance, while reducing costs and workload.
With the ability to accommodate both hardware and data management both onboard ship and ashore, OneLink can undertake high-level performance management across many modern vessel types including tankers, dry cargo, cruise ships and even new age LNG vessels, delivering an unparalleled service.
Through OneLink performance solutions, combined with Oceanly, owners and managers can detect energy inefficiency; compare sisterships, engines, and even crew between each other, to establish best practice and thereby drive down the emissions; improve their vessel’s CII-rating; secure the data they need to better understand where the potentials are for the specific ships, and what type of ESDs can be utilized for any particular ship; and measure the effects of their installations before they deploy the technology on other ships.
Oceanly's unique feature is its dual system, collecting and dashboarding performance data both onboard and ashore. With real-time data available to the onboard team, there's no need to rely on shore-based updates, resulting in faster reactions and improved decision-making.
Pankaj Sharma, who has recently taken over as Managing Director of OneLink, says that OneLink is future ready: “With the dynamic influx of emissions regulations coming in, we wanted a platform that was customisable, ready to integrate and scaleable for the future, which is how we partnered with Oceanly via OneLink."
He added: “We believe that with OneLink, we can bring in combined operational and technical efficiencies of between 5% and 12%. We have conducted pilots and understood the capabilities and these figures are very realistic.
“We recognise that change management is often not accounted for. However, at OneLink we adapt customer’s existing processes while customising the solution for our clients.”
OneLink solutions, combined with Oceanly, handles fleets that use sensor data, but can also analyse information coming from manual inputs on older ships or vessels without sensors. This makes the solution a reliable software not only for new ships, but also for ships that have been in service for a while or for vessels where there is not full access to sensors (for instance short term Time Charter vessels).
Using standard or proprietary solutions, Oceanly’s Data Collector (DC) can connect to any data source such as automation and navigation systems, onboard sensor systems and flow meters, while other systems such as ECDIS can also be integrated. The data not only allows real-time monitoring but the possibility to analyse historical data.
Using sensor data for vessel reporting instead of manual input results in many benefits such as increased sensor data accuracy, reduced errors, increased efficiency, better decision making because of accurate and up-to-date data, real time detection of potential hazards, as well as better compliance.
The Britannia Group hosts P&I Academy for Members in London
Representatives from its Members around the world are in London this week for a programme of presentations, workshops and networking events designed to improve delegates’ knowledge and understanding of P&I and learn more about the Britannia Group and the Managers, Tindall Riley.
The week-long programme is aimed at employees of Members who are relatively new to P&I and this year over 40 delegates from 28 Britannia Group Members across 16 different countries are attending. The Academy will also be attended by a number of staff from our regional hubs.
Running from 5 to 9 June, the programme covers a wide area of subjects including underwriting, claims, loss prevention and people risks. There will also be updates from colleagues team on sanctions, sustainability, salvage and a range of other topical issues.
The programme includes social events for delegates to network with Britannia Group staff including lunches, a visit to Lloyd’s and a farewell dinner with the Managers.
“Britannia P&I Academy is an excellent way to learn about the P&I market in general and how our systems work at the Britannia Group in a relaxed and friendly environment,” said Andrew Cutler, CEO of The Britannia Group. “Members have a unique opportunity during the week to develop their knowledge of P&I and their Club, strengthen relationships with colleagues in the Britannia Group and hopefully enjoy themselves.”
AlfaWall Oceanbird and Cristina Aleixendri Munoz scoop Nor-Shipping awards
In addition to Swedish/Danish tanker operator Terntank’s previously report4d win of the coveted Next Generation Ship Award, wind power pioneer AlfaWall Oceanbird and Bound4Blue Co-founder and COO Cristina Aleixendri Munoz also scooped awards at the 29th Nor-Shipping this week.
Expert judging panels described the competition for the accolades as “fiercer than ever”, reflecting on the “dynamic, ambitious and innovative state of an industry in transition.”
AlfaWall Oceanbird, a joint venture between Alfa Laval and Wallenius, took the second ever Ocean Solutions Award, which is open to Nor-Shipping participants and exhibitors, for the Oceanbird folding wing sail. This innovative wind concept, which has more in common with airplane wings than traditional sails, has the potential to transform the viability of wind power for large, deep-sea vessels.
Shifting the spotlight to individual talent, Cristina Aleixendri Munoz (pictured, right), of Spain’s Bound4Blue, was the proud recipient of the Young Entrepreneur Award, held in partnership with YoungShip International. This prize, given to emerging industry stars under the age of 40, recognized her pivotal role in bringing the firm’s automated turnkey wind solution to market.
“The Nor-Shipping awards are always a focal point for those interested in identifying the projects, innovations and talents set to define the future of this industry,” comments Sidsel Norvik, Director, Nor-Shipping.
“From what the judges tell us, this year’s competing fields were both large and very high quality, leaving our experts with some tough decisions, and very heated debates. I’d like to wish all three the warmest congratulations on their wins. It’ll be fascinating to see the impact they can have in the years to come.”
LR and LISCR award Design Approval for world’s first 22,000cbm multi-gas carrier
Lloyd’s Register (LR) and the Liberian International Ship & Corporate Registry (LISCR) have awarded Design Approval to HD Korea Shipbuilding & Offshore Engineering (HD KSOE) and Hyundai Mipo Dockyard (HMD) for the development of the world’s first 22,000cbm multi-gas carrier as part of a Joint Development Project for LCO2 Carrier design and development. A ceremony to mark the event was held at Nor-Shipping (pictured).
The vessel will be capable of carrying Liquified Carbon dioxide (LCO2), Liquid Petroleum Gas (LPG), Ammonia (NH3) and Vinyl Chloride Monomer (VCM) and incorporates a new type of steel in its tanks that supports greater efficiency in the carbon capture and storage (CCS) value chain.
The steel used in the Type C tank construction for multi-gas will make scantling lighter whilst keeping intact the tanks’ structural integrity. This innovation allows an upscale in the size of the carrier, improving storage and transportation, something shipbuilders are not able to do with more conventional materials.
As part of the Design Approval process, LR will provide advice and guidance on technical regulations and the development of a Type C storage tank for using the new material. The Liberian Flag Administration will liaise with LR to formalise the approval and provide the required certification to allow the multi-gas Carrier to enter service.
When built, the carrier will transport liquefied carbon dioxide under pressure, allowing carbon from the CCS process to be transported to storage facilities.
HD KSOE & HMD have developed three different LCO2 carriers to respond to the market demands of different business models in the CO2 value chain, which include a 12,000cbm LCO2 carrier with medium pressure cargo tanks, a 22,000cbm LCO2 carrier with low pressure cargo tanks and a 30,000cbm LCO2 carrier with low pressure cargo tanks.
Andy McKeran, Lloyd’s Register, said: “This Design Approval demonstrates LR’s expertise in supporting the advance of ground-breaking maritime projects in a safe, sustainable way. This multi-gas carrier will be a key piece of infrastructure in the carbon capture and storage value chain, helping remove greenhouse gases from the atmosphere, supporting the progress to a net zero carbon economy.”
Yi-hyo Chung, Senior Vice President, HMD, said: “This is the first result of the JDP of new steel for liquefied CO2 carriers signed in August 2021, allowing us to design & build more economical and efficient carriers. The developed new material has been examined and approved based on the mechanical properties experiment and engineering assessment.
“We are very pleased to share the result of this development show as we prepare to build customized economical liquefied CO2 Carriers.”
Thomas Klenum, Executive Vice President, Liberian Registry, said: “Carbon capture is one of the keys to unlock the potential to fully decarbonise international shipping and other industries in the fight against climate change, and therefore the Liberian Registry is very proud to contribute with an Approval in Principle to HD KSOE and HMD for their innovative multi-gas carrier design featuring a new steel type for the cargo tanks allowing multiple gases to be safely and efficiently transported including liquefied CO2.
“This JDP between HD KSOE, HMD, POSCO, LR and LISCR demonstrates that international collaboration can pave the way for innovation in ship design and a sustainable future for our maritime industry.”
Cyprus Shipping Deputy Ministry urges amendment of EU Ship Recycling Regulation
Ahead of the closing of the European Commission’s public consultation on evaluation of the EU Ship Recycling Regulation (SRR) today (7 June), the Cyprus Shipping Deputy Ministry has welcomed the review as a welcome opportunity to address what it calls “a significant loophole” in the SRR.
In addition to the circumvention from obligations of SRR, the fundamental problem is that while on paper the total is enough, in reality there is insufficient approved and cost-effective recycling capacity to meet the requirements of the regulation, it believes.
Ioannis Estratiou (pictured), Director of Safety & Environmental Protection at the Shipping Deputy Ministry (SDM), tells SMI: “There is an urgent need to revise that regulation since, in my considered view, it fails to fulfil its purpose, namely ensuring the safe and environmentally sound recycling of ships.”
He explains that there are currently only 44 approved facilities under the SRR, “the majority in Europe, one in the USA, three in the UK and six in Turkey”, whereas the vast majority of recycling takes place in Asia, in countries like India, Pakistan, Bangladesh and China. Many EU flag ships therefore reflag to a non-EU register for their final voyage to avoid the EU regulations, thereby confounding the SRR’s objective.
Many Indian yards have applied for EU SRR approval, he adds, but are prevented from obtaining it by EU waste shipment regulations. These incorporate the Basel Convention requiring hazardous waste from OECD countries not to be imported to non-OCED countries (like India), a technicality that the Legal Services of the European Commission has been trying to find ways of dealing with but so far without success up to now.
The SDM believe that this latest review of the SRR should include a constructive dialogue among EU partners in order to make the regulation “a robust, effective and sustainable policy consideration of possible financial mechanisms to incentivise use of approved yards. Use of financial mechanisms might be considered to incentivise owners of EU-flagged ships to use approved yards, says Estratiou, rather than compelling them to do so.
On the issue of the separate Hong Kong Convention (HKC) on ship recycling, Estratiou points that this probably won’t come into force until around 2025/6 even if Bangladesh were to become a party shortly, as it has vowed to - in which case Cyprus would follow suit, he informs.
With reviews of the SRR required to take place at least every five years, the next one around 2027/8 might then be the time to discuss whether a separate EU regulation is still necessary with the HKC in place, he suggests. The big difference between the two at present is whether ‘beaching’ is a permissible method of recycling, which the SRR says isn’t, he adds.
In any event, the Cyprus SDM is sharing its view at this time in order to kick-start what it hopes will be constructive discussions among EU countries on these important matters. “For us the ultimate goal is to protect human life and the environment,” concludes Estratiou, “and to close any loopholes that prevent these objectives from being met.”
Swedish Club appoints new Head for Team Sweden
The Swedish Club is delighted to announce the appointment of Fredrik Bergqvist as new Area Manager for Team Sweden. Fredrik brings a wealth of experience and expertise to the position and will play a crucial role in the Club’s team of Regional Managers. He joined The Swedish Club more than ten years ago and has worked for the Club in both claims and underwriting areas. Prior to that he served as a senior officer on board ship and is a Master Mariner.
As Area Manager for Team Sweden Fredrik will be responsible for maintaining and developing relationships with members and brokers across Scandinavian and European markets as well as North and South America. Based in Gothenburg, he is supported by a team of 24 professionals, specialising in P&I, FD&D, H&M and loss prevention services.
Fredrik takes over from Johan Kahlmeter who was promoted to Director Claims earlier this year, as part of the Club’s focus on further strengthening its long-term position in the global market.
Commenting on the appointment, Thomas Nordberg, Managing Director of The Swedish Club said: “This is a natural step, following as it does the changes that the Club has made to the management group. We need to ensure continuous openings for new talent, both from within the company and externally, and the promotion of Fredrik has been well earned.”
Fredrik Bergqvist added: “This new role is a welcome challenge, and I am very pleased to be leading such a strong and committed team. I am looking forward to the future and to fully supporting our members and business colleagues.
LISW23 welcomes the Netherlands as its first ever National Pavilion Partner
The organisers of London International Shipping Week 2023 (LISW23) are delighted to welcome the Netherlands as the first ever National Pavilion Partner, highlighting the strong and close relationship between the two maritime nations.
The Netherlands boasts a thriving maritime hub and the government-backed partnership will enable the cluster to showcase all it has to offer with several Dutch maritime companies already signed up as part of the Pavilion approach.
The maritime sector in the Netherlands includes world class knowledge institutes, an interconnected shipbuilding industry and vibrant smart ports with excellent maritime services, as well as a highly skilled workforce.
On either side of the North Sea, the Netherlands and the UK are among each other’s main trade and investment partners with both sharing the drive to shape a sustainable and smart maritime sector. The Dutch maritime sector wants to collaborate with the UK to develop zero-emission and smart shipping, create green, vibrant and connected port cities, provide legal and regulatory services as a first alternative in Europe, advance the sustainable blue economy with clean and productive oceans.
During LISW23, a Netherlands Day will take place on 14th September in which a delegation of Dutch government, stakeholders and companies will visit London to share knowledge, best practices and create new collaboration opportunities with UK partners. The day will offer a varied programme around three main themes: Business & Technology Innovation, Compliance and Decarbonisation, in partnership with the Rotterdam Maritime Services Community and Rotterdam Maritime Capital of Europe.
As part of the Business & Technology theme, the day will include a Technology & Innovation Exchange where pioneering companies will showcase their latest innovations for use in ports and shipping that will help the broader maritime sector achieve sustainability and connectivity goals.
The Compliance sessions will see Maritime Services professional present on the legal aspects of pressing themes such as autonomous shipping and making the sector more sustainable, while panel discussions on the topic of Decarbonisation will also take place with key stakeholders, to further the UK and Netherlands’ understanding of how the sharing of research, funding and infrastructure and will benefit global net-zero goals.
“By joining London International Shipping Week, we are affirming our ambitions to work with the UK to address global challenges together,” says Els Steiger, Chief Representative for NBSO Manchester, one of the main organisers of the Netherlands Day, together with the Netherlands Enterprise Agency.
“The United Kingdom and the Netherlands can pave the way and form international partnerships in order to realise smart and zero-emission shipping and develop green and connected port cities. I believe both counties present unique and complementary offers that ,when combined, can deliver real progress. Together we can change course towards a sustainable blue economy.”
Llewellyn Bankes-Hughes, Director of Shipping Innovation and co-founder of LISW, welcomed the Netherlands as National Pavilion Partner stating: “LISW is all about collaboration, between every sector of the maritime industry and government, and therefore provides the perfect environment to enable international clusters to come together to share information, build new business relationships and grow stronger. We are delighted that the Netherlands has become the first maritime hub to become a National Pavilion Partner at LISW23 and would welcome any other maritime hubs to follow suit and take advantage of the great opportunity that London will offer in September.”
More details on the exact programme for the Netherlands Day will be announced shortly.
LISW23 will be held in the week of September 11-15, 2023 and will play host to the maritime world with hundreds of events attracting thousands of international industry decision makers into London during the week. The headline LISW23 Conference will be held on Wednesday September 13th while the LISW23 Gala Dinner will be held on Thursday September 14th.
LR award Approval in Principle for Daphne Technology’s PureMetrics emission monitoring and reporting system
PureMetrics uses stack measurement to monitor and report greenhouse gases released from the exhausts of maritime and land-based combustion engines.
Lloyd’s Register (LR) has awarded Daphne Technology with Approval in Principle (AiP) for its PureMetricsTM emission monitoring and reporting system, a key tool for understanding and mitigating emissions resulting from methane slip.
Methane slip, where unburned fuel is not fully combusted in engines, represents a significant obstacle for cutting climate emissions with a global warming potential (GWP100) 28 times that of CO2. Reliable and feasible technology is therefore key to achieving the IMO’s 2050 target of cutting annual greenhouse gas emissions from shipping by at least half, compared with 2008 levels.
Daphne’s PureMetrics solution utilises stack measurement to monitor and report emissions and can be applied to exhaust stacks from different combustion units to provide real-time measurements of greenhouse gasses (GHG) such as CO2, methane, and other pollutants such as sulphur oxides and nitrogen oxides. PureMetrics provides accurate and comprehensive data on emissions whilst also offering convenient vessel and fleet emission reporting, historical digital emission data access, and cybersecurity measures.
Research shows that methane emissions vary depending on engine types and how the engines run. This makes stack measurement an even greater necessity for ship operators. Mitigating methane emissions is particularly significant in the maritime industry due to increased reliance on natural gas. The industry needs accurate, auditable, and direct data that enables low methane emission operational practices and ship designs.
The solution is easily installable and offers seamless integration with other vessel insight solutions adopted by ship owners. PureMetrics can also automate the calculation of Carbon Intensity Indicator (CII) ratings based on actual emissions.
Panos Mitrou, Global Gas Segment Director, Lloyd’s Register, said: “LR is delighted to become the first classification society to approve Daphne Technolgy’s PureMetrics emission monitoring and reporting system. CO2 and methane emissions present the biggest challenge to the shipping industry and especially the use of LNG as fuel. PureMetrics will help stakeholders to gain comprehensive insights and practical recommendations to reduce emissions, cut costs and enhance their sustainability efforts.”
Mario Michan, CEO & Founder, Daphne Technology, said: "Obtaining an AiP from LR for our PureMetricsTM solution is a significant step in providing businesses with a powerful tool to measure and track their greenhouse gas emissions in real-time, enabling them to make data-driven decisions and take proactive steps towards reducing their carbon footprint. We extend our sincere thanks to LR for their invaluable support, enabling us to enhance transparency and contribute to a sustainable future."
This AiP follows last year’s Approval for Daphne’s methane abatement technology SlipPure, designed to benefit a variety of LNG carriers and LNG fuelled ships facing an imminent threat once methane is integrated into the GHG regulatory regime.
Anna Evangelidis appointed as new Chief Operating Officer at Inchcape Shipping Services
Inchcape Shipping Services announces the appointment of Anna Evangelidis as its new Chief Operating Officer, effective June 6th, 2023. Anna brings with her a wealth of experience, having previously worked at BP, Saipem and LR (Lloyds Register), where she held various positions as a naval architect, pipeline engineer, procurement, and other operational leadership roles.
In her new role, Anna will be responsible for three major areas of our company. First, she will be responsible for ensuring operational excellence and delivery worldwide. Secondly, she will oversee the expansion of our Global Managed HUB Solutions. Lastly, she will be responsible for overseeing IT and procurement functions.
Anna secured an honours degree in Ship Science from Southampton University. She is passionate about people and is seen as a fantastic addition to the Inchcape family and senior leadership team.
Philippe Maezelle, CEO of Inchcape Shipping Services commented: “The move from ‘Operations’ to ‘Operating’ Officer is an important development for our company as it represents a significant expansion of the role. Anna's wealth of front-line operational experience, knowledge of digital projects and pragmatism makes her the perfect fit for this new position.”
Anna Evangelidis commented: “I couldn't be happier to be a part of the Inchcape team. The company's rich history and dedication to innovation and long-term success are truly inspiring. I am thrilled to contribute to Inchcape's bright future and be a part of such a dynamic organisation.”
BAR Technologies and Deltamarin’s new optimised hull design to harness wind power for 15% improvement against current fleet
Innovative marine engineering consultancy, BAR Technologies, and naval architects, Deltamarin, have announced that they are once again partnering to lead the way in wind propulsion innovation with new build design, Aframax/LRII.
The announcement comes off the back of previous collaboration on WindWings which, with saving of approximately 1.5 tonnes of fuel per wing per day, will debut on the Pyxis Ocean soon, fresh from being nominated for the Next Generation Ship Award at Nor-Shipping.
Above deck, there have been great strides in design that harnesses the potential of wind propulsion; the next frontier, recognised in this partnership, is to complement this with hull forms modified specifically to maximise wind power. With this new hull design, BAR Technologies and Delatmarin’s early predictions suggest that as much as 10 tonnes of fuel per day can be saved with an Aframax/LRII hull and four WindWings using a North America/ Rotterdam roundtrip as an example.
The use of sails to reduce fuel consumption and thereby help decarbonise shipping is a very popular method employed by innovators and vessel owners. However, progress towards maximum efficiency depends upon full consideration of variable factors, such as the type of vessel and the route it is taking. To get closer to the best solution in general, there must be more research on how performance can be improved under the water’s surface.
It is in this area that BAR Technologies and Deltamarin are now pooling their concentration having seen first-hand that a large portion of both existing ships and newbuilds lack optimal hull and propulsion designs for significant wind assistance. Though the project is in its initial phase, BAR Technologies’ history of technical excellence, and Deltamarin’s quality in ship design, give confidence to the assertion that new hull forms, like the Aframax/LRII, that extract significantly more thrust will increase average fuel savings and be the first of many ship designs tailored for wind propulsion.
“Wind is the free fuel, and it is the gauntlet laid down in front of innovators like ourselves to work out how we can displace fossil fuels with wind power” said John Cooper, CEO, BAR Technologies. “It has been a privilege to partner with the best shipyards to retrofit WindWings, and we are especially excited to partner with the best ocean-going naval architects for big ship design in Deltamarin and that the Aframax/LRII is the first of many announcements.”
Esa Jokioinen, Director, Sales and Marketing at Deltamarin, added: “The opportunities moving forward with wind power are vast. Being familiar with BAR Technologies’ expert innovation in wind propulsion, we are delighted to collaborate on what both companies see as the next vital stage for wind-assisted sea travel: hull optimisation. So far, we have made fine progress in harnessing wind power using sails, but we are finding increased performance all the time and, with this hull design, we are witnessing a 15% improvement against our current fleet.”
ForestWave selects Seaber’s chartering and schedule optimisation solution
Finnish maritime technology company Seaber has announced a cooperation with ForestWave Navigation, a multipurpose carrier shipowner based in the Netherlands. With the help of Seaber’s chartering and schedule optimisation solution, ForestWave will automate processes and increase efficiency, leading to reduced costs and emissions.
ForestWave’s company objectives include seeking creative and innovative technical solutions for the vessels they manage, that lead to improved safety, reduced costs and eco-friendlier operations. The shipping company commercially manages 35 vessels in the 5,000 dwt to 12,500 dwt range in multipurpose shipping.
The company focuses on creating optimisation of earning capacity, and cost savings, and simultaneously maintaining first-class quality and optimal safety and environmental awareness on board.
Both shipowners and cargo owners benefit from Seaber’s web-based application allowing them to maximise efficiencies in planning and scheduling. Shipowners like ForestWave can use the Seaber solution for maximising fleet TCE by supercharging chartering and scheduling functions.
ForestWave is excited about the Seaber solution: “Here at ForestWave our aim is to maximise the utilisation of our vessels,” says Fred Diepeveen (pictured, right) , Managing Director.
“There is such a wide range of possibilities when it comes to planning your contract cargoes while considering potential market cargoes and also positioning your fleet optimally. Emerging emission regulations will make this process even more complex. Seaber’s software provides a visual user interface that automatically calculates relevant KPIs with just a drag-and-drop move. This helps the users when they quickly need to make decisions and compare multiple scenarios in no time.”
Seaber is uniquely positioned to digitally transform the shipping industry and bring down its environmental impact. In addition to single cargo voyages, Seaber supports multi-parcel and multi-port voyages, where unnecessary ballast voyages and low utilisation rates are common. The technology, based on a modern tech stack, integrates seamlessly with existing software solutions such as ERPs and Voyage management systems.
Sebastian Sjöberg (pictured, left), CEO and Co-founder of Seaber warmly welcomes ForestWave to Seaber’s growing customer base: “One of ForestWave's objectives is to use innovative technology to reduce costs and emissions. Seaber shares this goal by providing the industry with a solution that improves the utilisation of vessels, subsequently reducing costs and emissions.”
Inert Gas costs reduced with remote support tool
Following the successful completion of pilot tests with a leading tanker operator, Inert Gas specialists, Maritime Protection, a brand of global Survival Technology solutions provider Survitec, has launched a new remote support service for its range of Inert Gas (IG) systems.
Remote support gives IG system operators faster access to inert gas expertise to help avoid system failures and keep systems running efficiently. Specialist IG engineers can access the system remotely to support system tuning, diagnose faults and organise solutions without the expense and delay of travelling out to ship, optimising system performance and reducing operational costs.
Bernt Øhrn, Managing Director, Maritime Protection, said: “Inert gas systems are essential and complex safety systems. If they fail, it’s effectively treated as an emergency situation requiring immediate remedial action. We have developed a way of supporting our customers remotely, reducing vessel off-hire through system downtime, and cutting back on the need to send out service engineers to the ship, which can be costly.”
Officially launching at Nor-shipping in Oslo, 6th-9th June, Remote Support, an IG monitoring, diagnostics and control service, follows the successful completion of pilot tests aboard a 40,000dwt product tanker.
The need for a remote support solution became evident during the Covid pandemic when travel restrictions limited traffic on and off ships, making it difficult and, in some instances, impossible for service engineers to board vessels to diagnose and repair faults in situ. A leading European-based tanker operator and long-standing Maritime Protection customer assisted in developing the solution, which is now in operation aboard 32 product tankers.
Øhrn explained: “Both companies agreed that a virtual support service where our inert gas engineers could log in to access the IG system remotely, diagnose any problems and fix them immediately, without having to travel out to the ship, would not only reduce operational costs but keep this critical safety system operating optimally.”
Crew members contact the inert gas specialists at Maritime Protection, who can then access the IG system, diagnose problems, and support the crew in fine-tuning the system for optimum performance. If there is a breakdown or a scenario that does require a physical presence, the shore-based technicians can pinpoint the problem and identify and supply the necessary spare parts beforehand, reducing the time spent onboard and ensuring the fault can be repaired in one trip.
Remote Support utilises a secure VPN (Virtual Private Network) gateway designed to be quickly and easily installed without any system wiring or modifications. This is compatible with all Maritime Protection IG and nitrogen systems. And, for additional security, a “key” switch is included to enable or disable remote support and internet access quickly. This also doubles up as a firewall.
Maritime Protection is offering Remote Support as an annual fee-based leasing model that can include crew training, spare parts for the IG system, and regular system tune-ups to reduce fuel consumption and increase system stability. “Our technicians can tune up the IG system remotely to stabilise the oxygen content, optimising fuel consumption, which can realise significant fuel cost savings for each IG system,” said Øhrn.
New international working group to study onboard carbon capture solutions
ABS announces it has joined an elite working group comprised of global maritime leaders to study onboard carbon capture technologies.
The collaborative project brings together ABS, Diana Shipping Services, Equinor, GasLog LNG Services, Maran Gas Maritime, Minerva Gas, Neptune Lines Shipping and Managing Enterprises, the Norwegian Maritime Authority (NMA), Prime Tanker Management, Solvang, Springfield Shipping Co. Panama, Thenamaris (Ships Management) and Wärtsilä Moss.
The multi-month study is underway with five distinct areas of focus: technologies, regulations, operational parameters, financial impacts and infrastructure.
“ABS is honoured to join this distinguished group to share knowledge and explore solutions,” said Panos Koutsourakis, ABS Vice President, Global Sustainability. “Carbon capture has the potential to be a key transformational technology for shipping to achieve net-zero emissions by 2050.
“The collective expertise and resources of the partners will play a key role in overcoming the technical, regulatory, and economic challenges associated with this innovative approach to emissions reduction.”
“In the absence of abundant and affordable carbon-free fuels, carbon capture and storage (CCS) technology is increasingly gaining interest as a reasonable step towards shipping decarbonisation,” said Kostas Karathanos, COO of GasLog. “We are proud to be able to collaborate with industry leaders to materialize the adoption of this technology at sea.”
KR approves jointly developed methanol-fuelled MR tanker
Korean Register (KR) has granted an Approval in Principle (AIP) for a methanol-fuelled MR tanker, jointly developed by KR, South Korean shipbuilders K Shipbuilding and equipment manufacturer S&SYS at Nor-Shipping 2023 in Oslo, Norway on 6 June.
As part of the Joint Development Project (JDP) between the three companies, the MR tanker is designed as a dual-fuel vessel, harnessing the power of marine gas oil (MGO) and methanol. The vessel incorporates two methanol fuel tanks positioned on the port and starboard sides of the open deck.
K Shipbuilding spearheaded the vessel's basic design and the methanol fuel tank design, while S&SYS undertook the development of the fuel supply system. KR ensured the safety and regulatory compliance of the design by thoroughly reviewing national and international regulations, leading to the issuance of the AIP for the methanol-fuelled MR tanker.
With an increasing focus on reducing greenhouse gas emissions in the maritime industry, the adoption of decarbonized alternative fuels has become imperative. Initiatives like the EU's 'Fit for 55' package, targeting a minimum 55% reduction in greenhouse gas emissions by 2030, have underscored the urgency for shipping companies to explore viable solutions. Consequently, many major shipping companies have recently placed orders for methanol dual fuel vessels.
Methanol possesses significant advantages as a marine fuel. It is a liquid fuel similar to bunker fuel at room temperature, eliminating the need for pressurization. Compared to extreme temperature fuels like LNG at -162 degrees Celsius, hydrogen at -253 degrees Celsius, and ammonia at -34 degrees Celsius, methanol is easier to store and transport. Furthermore, it is considered a green fuel with strong potential for commercialization in the maritime sector due to its technical feasibility, less toxic nature compared to ammonia, and lower technical requirements compared to LNG fuel.
LEE Hyungchul, Chairman & CEO of KR said: “KR remains committed to advancing decarbonized alternative fuel technologies, with a particular focus on providing technical support for decarbonization efforts. The ‘Methanol Fueled MR Tanker’ joint development project stands as a testament to KR's dedication to driving the industry's transition towards greener solutions.”
JANG Yoonkeun, CEO of K Shipbuilding said: “We are delighted to see that our years of hard work to develop green-fuelled vessels has resulted in today’s AIP for the methanol-fuelled MR tanker. We will further improve our technologies and pursue innovations to contribute to maritime decarbonization.”
By granting AIP for the methanol-fuelled MR tanker, KR reinforces its position as a leading classification society in championing sustainable and innovative maritime technologies that pave the way for a more environmentally conscious future.
BERG adds adaptable control and propulsion to optimize wind assisted Neoliner in all conditions
An integrated control to propeller solution from Berg Propulsion has been selected to ensure that the visionary Neoliner ro-ro vessel will always achieve optimized performance, whether it is powered by wind alone or with the assistance of gensets.
In January, French company Neoline Armateur contracted Türkiye’s RMK Marine to build the first ever ro-ro vessel to use wind power for commercial operations at its Tuzla yard. Designed by Mauric, the 136m length Neoliner will be a pioneer of energy transition in shipping, using emission-free wind power captured by a 3,000 sq m area of sail, supported by two 76m SolidSail folding carbon masts.
While wind power is expected to account for almost 80% of Neoliner’s propulsion needs, close manoeuvres and service punctuality require auxiliary power to assist. RMK Marine has contracted Berg Propulsion to deliver and offer technical support for the auxiliary propulsion system, in an elegant solution which includes a ‘feathering’ main propeller. When feathered, propeller blades are set parallel to flow, in a position which will minimize drag when Neoliner is under sail.
Berg’s full scope of supply covers an MPP850F controllable pitch propeller with feathering system, the shafting system, gearbox and control system, and 3xMTT113FP tunnel thrusters.
“This is a transformative project that challenges the status quo in commercial shipping, and Berg is delighted to offer enabling technology to optimise Neoliner’s sustainable performance across its operational needs,” said Mustafa Müslüm, General Manager, Berg Propulsion Eurasia. “We would also like to extend our thanks to RMK Marine for its continuing trust in the Berg team.”
Whether the Neoliner uses 100% sail, electric power, its 3184-kW engine or any combination, the Berg solution will ensure optimized hydrodynamic performance and sustainability, added Müslüm.
“Berg Propulsion is an established provider of innovative propulsion technology which has been supporting RMK Marine’s delivery of highly reliable ships for almost a decade, across a range of vessel types including tankers, tugs and other service craft,” said Gürkan Türkeş (General Manager), RMK Marine. “We are delighted to be working with them once more on this exceptional project.”
Co-financed by CMA CGM, ADEME Investissement, NEOLINE Développement, Corsica Ferries, Louis Hardy S.A.S, the Banque des Territoires and the Pays de la Loire Region, the project anticipates the first Neoliner entering a pilot transatlantic service between Saint-Nazaire, Saint-Pierre-et-Miquelon, Baltimore and Halifax in 2025. Companies behind brands such as Renault, Beneteau, Manitou, Michelin, Hennessy, Clarins, Longchamp and Cointreau have already committed to use Neoliner.
“Steps continue towards the realisation of the Neoliner project as a true pioneer of energy transition in shipping,” said Jean Zanuttini, CEO, Neoline. “Auxiliary propulsion systems will play a critical role in ensuring that wind power offers a wholly pragmatic solution to shipping’s complex energy issue.”
KR approves HD Hyundai HI innovative tank shape (Hi-ICON) with sloshing-restrained technology
Korean Register (KR) has awarded an Approval in Principle (AIP) to HD Hyundai Heavy Industries (HD HHI) for a new type of tank shape designed for various liquefied gases and fuels. The announcement was made during Nor-Shipping 2023 in Oslo this week. The new tank shape, developed by HD HHI, is designed to improve safety and productivity.
The new tank shape aims to address the challenge of sloshing that impacts the transportation of liquefied gases, such as LNG. HD HHI has successfully optimized the shape of the liquefied gas tank, effectively reducing the sloshing effect and enhancing stability. This significantly mitigates the risk of accidents and potential disasters during transportation.
Furthermore, the innovative tank design incorporates an improved layout, leading to enhanced work efficiency and productivity. The newly developed tank shape exemplifies cutting-edge technology that combines improved safety measures, increased productivity, and efficient sloshing reduction techniques.
HD HHI plans to expand the application of the new tanks to various liquefied gas carriers and propulsion ships in the future. It is expected that HD HHI will continue to strengthen its competitiveness in the liquefied cargo carrier shipbuilding market, including LNG, by providing safe and reliable solutions to customers.
KR is committed to actively collaborating with the technology development of new tank types, including Hi-ICON. As a leading classification society, KR will provide comprehensive technical support to facilitate the development of next-generation eco-friendly ships, further promoting the advancement of maritime industry.
Kongsberg launches unified and simplified K-Chief marine automation system
Kongsberg Maritime has unveiled its new K-Chief marine automation system, offering ship owners more efficient operations from a single platform to integrate all Kongsberg equipment on board.
Launched at the 2023 Nor-Shipping marine expo in Oslo, the new K-Chief provides a platform for seamless integration of Kongsberg equipment and easier operations on board the ship. The company has evolved its K-Chief systems over the past 40+ years, with around 20,000 installed on ships worldwide.
This latest development of K-Chief offers a harmonised solution, which can be installed on all ship types. Instead of having multiple platforms suited to a specific market segment, Kongsberg can now offer the benefits of K-Chief on a common platform.
K-Chief has become even more versatile for all types of vessels - from low complexity alarm systems to highly integrated control and monitoring systems.
Erik Korssjøen, Product Director Vessel Control Systems, Kongsberg Maritime, said: “K-Chief is a popular and proven automation platform, and this latest version combines the strengths of our existing platforms to provide shipowners and operators with a better technical and operational solution, and improved integration when they’re selecting more than one system from Kongsberg.
“It provides the basis for one common platform on board the ship to integrate the Kongsberg equipment. For the crew, this simplifies operations making their job more efficient, easier and safer”.
The enhanced integration of the new K-Chief brings benefits through integrating operation of multiple systems. Extensive investments in research and development have resulted in a system, which will reduce costs, improve the operation of the onboard equipment and reduce the likelihood of human errors, improving safety.
ABS honours Norwegian owners for their commitment to saving lives at sea
ABS continued its long-standing support for the Amver Awards by sponsoring a ceremony recognizing the contribution of Norwegian owners to the unique AMVER reporting system that supports search and rescue efforts for distress calls at sea.
The ceremony at the U.S. Deputy Chief of Mission Residence, was attended by John Kerry, United States Special Presidential Envoy for Climate.
The event honoured 242 vessels from 31 Norwegian shipowners and operators, who were awarded coloured pennants for their role in maintaining maritime safety and in recognition of the owners’ commitment to assisting in search and rescue activities anywhere in the world.
“The basic premise of AMVER is an approach close to the heart of ABS, applying technological solutions with a focus on results to deliver a step-change in safety for the industry,” said John McDonald, ABS Executive Vice President and COO. “Norwegian shipping has a proud record on safety. The owners and operators being recognized this year are upholding that fine tradition.”
“Norway helps set the example of responsible shipping around the world. We are excited to be back at Nor-Shipping in person to recognize the good work the Norwegian shipping community contributes to safety at sea. The United States Coast Guard relies on the commercial shipping sector, especially our Norwegian partners, to ensure when a call for help is made, we answer that call,” said Benjamin Strong, Director, AMVER Maritime Relations, United States Coast Guard.
The Mission to Seafarers launches world’s first ‘digital seafarers’ centre’
International maritime welfare charity The Mission to Seafarers has unveiled its ‘Happy at Sea’ mobile app at an exclusive launch event during Nor-Shipping 2023. For the first time, this revolutionary app provides seafarers with centralised access to The Mission to Seafarers’ services which are available day and night, 365 days a year, in over 200 ports across 50 countries. By leveraging digital technology, seafarers can now conveniently access essential services, improving their welfare and mental health during their time at sea.
Billed as the world’s first digital seafarers’ centre, the Happy at Sea app empowers seafarers to take charge of their port welfare needs and safeguard their mental health. The free-of-charge app offers an array of features including the ability to pre-order requests ahead of port visits and access the Mission's extensive range of wellbeing resources even when offline, addressing the issue of limited internet access onboard ships.
The Seafarers Happiness Index survey can also be easily completed within the app, followed by tailored resources and support based on each seafarer's responses. By embracing this innovative platform, seafarers gain access to vital support in an efficient and user-friendly manner.
With a history of supporting seafarers dating back to 1836, The Mission to Seafarers leveraged its extensive expertise and insight to design the Happy at Sea app, catering specifically to the needs of seafarers. Developed with funding from DNV, Cargill, and The Seafarers’ Charity, the app directly addresses the increasing digital needs of seafarers who frequently encounter challenges such as loneliness, mental health issues, and limited access to facilities and communication.
The Happy at Sea app can be downloaded from either the Apple iOS App Store or the Google Play Store. The app's small size ensures that it can be easily downloaded even with limited internet connectivity. Regular updates to the app will introduce new functionality to enhance the user experience. The app also features the Flying Angel, an innovative chatbot powered by AI technology, designed to provide quick responses to frequently asked questions.
In addition to accessing a global directory of the Mission’s teams, seafarers will have the ability to instantly pre-order a wide range of services. These include ship visits by port welfare officers, transportation, shopping items such as SIM cards, and even private pastoral counselling sessions with trained professionals for those requiring specialised support. The Happy at Sea app will significantly enhance the well-being of seafarers by providing them with accessible resources and support when they need it most.
Other features of the Happy at Sea app include a simple log-in process, a comprehensive port database for effortless check-ins, and the ability to stay updated with the latest news even without an internet connection. This is due to the app's functionality to automatically download news in the background while connected to WiFi to avoid using up costly data; data being a critical lifeline keeping seafarers in contact with loved ones.
Ben Bailey, Director of Programme at The Mission to Seafarers, said: “Our goal with the Happy at Sea app is to enhance the lives of seafarers worldwide by centralising our resources. Since the onset of the pandemic, we have witnessed a significant surge in requests for support through digital channels, be it through our CrewHelp service, local Facebook pages, and WhatsApp groups.
“This app will enable seafarers to easily track their requests, while also empowering our teams to work more strategically within the ports. We take pride in the fact that our services are tailored to meet local needs in every one of our 200 locations, and the Happy at Sea app will provide seafarers with rapid access to these essential facilities.”
“Safety at sea is at the heart of everything we do at DNV, and the health and wellbeing of crew is key to upholding safety standards,” said Knut Ørbeck-Nilssen, CEO of DNV Maritime. “We deeply appreciate the opportunity to support this app and The Mission to Seafarers, as they work to provide essential assistance to seafarers worldwide and promote favourable working conditions for all crew."
Eman Abdalla, Global Operations & Supply Chain Director, Cargill Ocean Transportation, added: “At Cargill Ocean Transportation making zero harm shipping a reality is our mission and indeed it all starts with the crew’s wellbeing. Therefore, supporting the Happy at Sea app and The Mission to Seafarers was the perfect opportunity to give seafarers access to a multitude of services that can only improve and promote their well-being.”
Deborah Layde, Chief Executive at The Seafarers' Charity, commented: “We are thrilled to be co-funding 'Happy@Sea' with DNV and Cargill. Increasing the ease of access & range of services and support for seafarers will be a welcome addition for many undoubtedly.”
The Happy at Sea app is available for both Apple and Android devices, ensuring broad accessibility to seafarers across the globe. It will initially be launched in the Mission's Oceania Region from June 2023, with plans for a gradual rollout across its extensive network of locations in the coming months.
Columbia Shipmanagement continues partnership with AKTI Project and Research Centre in combatting coastal microplastics in Cyprus
On World Ocean Day 2023 yesterday (8 June), Columbia Shipmanagement proudly reaffirmed its commitment to environmental sustainability through its ongoing partnership with the AKTI Project and Research Centre. The collaboration aims to address the pressing issue of coastal microplastics in the waters off the coast of Cyprus.
As a leading global ship management company, Columbia Shipmanagement recognises the urgent need to protect marine biodiversity and conserve the marine environment. The partnership with AKTI aligns perfectly with the company's sustainability strategy and goals.
In the first year of the research, conducted between July 2022 and March 2023, AKTI Project and Research Centre successfully collected and processed samples from the selected beaches. The results are eye-opening, revealing the extent of the microplastic problem. Up to 4000 microplastics, including pellets, fragments of various colours, and transparent films, were detected along the remote and touristic coasts of Cyprus.
Microplastics are considered as plastic particles with a size range of 5mm-1μm. Particles less than 1 μm are considered nanoplastics. The research implemented by AKTI Project and Research Centre focuses on microplastics only. Processing of the samples included sieving, floatation, and use of a microscope.
Andreas Hadjipetrou (pictured), Group Chief Commercial Officer, and Managing Director of Columbia Shipmanagement, emphasised the company's commitment to local community engagement and its role in supporting initiatives that address the real needs and challenges faced by civil society. "Our partnership with AKTI and the valuable work they are doing aligns perfectly with our shared values and goals. By offering solutions that meet these needs, we can make a meaningful impact in preserving our oceans," said Mr. Hadjipetrou.
This ongoing research project serves as a crucial step towards developing effective policies and strategies to combat plastic pollution off the coasts of Cyprus. By analysing the abundance and types of microplastics found, the project will provide valuable insights to guide future initiatives aimed at protecting the marine environment.
LR, Knutsen, HD KSOE and HHI team up for first 'Cradle to Grave' lifecycle assessment of LNGC newbuild
Lloyd’s Register (LR), Knutsen, HD Korea Shipbuilding and Offshore Engineering (HD KSOE) and HD Hyundai Heavy Industries (HHI) have announced a study as part of a Joint Development Project (JDP) to measure carbon emissions through the entire life cycle of a newbuild LNG Carrier. Signing of the JDP took place at the British Embassy in Oslo (pictured).
The JDP is the first maritime industry study to measure carbon emissions for the entire life cycle of a ship from raw material extraction to decommissioning/recycling of the ship, including equipment & component manufacture, its transportation to the shipyard, construction and commissioning, operation and the maintenance of the ship.
The Lifecycle Assessment will provide the detailed environmental impact of an identified LNG Carrier and its carbon emissions, quantifying each construction stage’s raw material usage, energy inputs and environmental releases as well as the emissions for the vessel’s operations and eventual disposal.
The study will determine the environmental output of the vessel build process, helping organisations to improve their regulatory readiness and provide estimations on the impacts of future regulations, along with data to provide the basis for sustainability strategies.
The JDP will also lay the groundwork for LR rulesets, requirements and guidance on how to assess carbon emission in the entire lifecycle of a ship.
Andy McKeran, Chief Commercial Officer, Lloyd’s Register, said: “As part of the decarbonisation of our sector, maritime organisations need to ensure that they rethink the sustainability of the design, build and operation of vessels.”
“This first of its kind study will provide stakeholders with the unique opportunity to collect quantifiable data that measures the environmental impact of the ship build process and analysis across a vessel’s entire life cycle. This is vital information that will help organisations to determine their future sustainability strategies.”
Kwanghean An, President & Chief Operating Officer, HD KSOE, said: “As the global environmental regulations are expanding to the entire value chain, our joint development project for the life cycle assessment of ships will be a crucial step for both shipbuilding and shipping industries. By measuring a ship's environmental impact through its life cycle, we can effectively determine improvement priorities and sustainable business strategy.
Jarle Østenstad, Director Newbuilding and Innovation, Knutsen, said: “We have for a long time been interested in finding out lifetime CO2 emissions from a ship. This project will give interesting results to be used for further optimization of the fleet and to do more qualified assessments for deciding whether to extend the lifetime of vessels, do conversions/upgrades or build new vessels in order to minimize emissions. We are very happy to be a partner with Lloyd’s Register and KSOE on this project and look forward to seeing the end results of the study.”
The IMO must take the bull by the horns, says Norwegian Shipowners’ Association
Norwegian Shipowners’ Association (NSA) CEO Harald Solberg (pictured) has issued the following message to coincide with the closing of this week’s Nor-Shipping event:
To supercharge the green shift, we need a clear zero-emissions target by 2050, a market-based levy on CO2 emissions and an improved set of efficiency measures, and as our industry’s global regulator the IMO is the body to do it – and fast. We no longer have the luxury of time.
In the wake of this year’s Nor-Shipping, it was clear to me in all the conversations I had both on and off the record that momentum is growing across the industry to push for higher targets on decarbonisation, faster technology development and improved efficiency throughout the value chain to tackle the climate crisis.
My post-fair summary to all our global partners is that the Norwegian shipping community will continue to be a loud and leading voice in that process. The NSA launched its own ambitious climate strategy in 2020, under which our members, firstly, will only order vessels based on zero-emission technology from 2030, and secondly, will operate a climate-neutral fleet by 2050.
The IMO’s current climate strategy was adopted in 2018 with a goal to reduce total greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions from international shipping by at least 50% by 2050 compared to 2008 levels. The strategy also called for the development of short-term measures to help achieve this goal, including energy efficiency standards for new ships and the development of the Carbon Intensity Indicator (CII) for existing ships.
The NSA stands firmly behind the IMO. We continue to believe that maritime regulations should be developed to the greatest extent possible at the global level under its direction. This is the best way to ensure fair competition and an optimally effective regulatory framework, versus a patchwork of regional regulations that would be unnecessarily burdensome in terms of cost and compliance.
It is our view that the IMO urgently needs to adopt a more ambitious strategy along the same lines as our own. We advocate setting an unequivocal zero-emissions goal by 2050 and the implementation of a market-based mechanism that puts a price on GHG emissions from international shipping. The latter is absolutely crucial to reduce emissions globally. The income from a CO2 levy should, in turn, be used to finance the green transition by reducing the price of alternative energy sources.
In addition, the CII has shown significant weaknesses, including unintended consequences that may cause the distortion of vessel trading platforms to achieve better rankings, which in a worst-case scenario could lead to higher fuel consumption and more emissions. New and more efficient measures are necessary instead of a ‘one size fits all’ dynamic based on nautical miles sailed.
The 80th meeting of the Marine Environment Protection Committee (MEPC-80) in July will decide on the IMO’s revised climate strategy. We cannot shrink away from our shared responsibility to transform maritime transport, and with the IMO in the vanguard I believe we can get there – together and on a level playing field.
To conclude, as the international regulator of our industry we need the IMO to show strong and tough leadership. The July meeting will be seen as a key milestone, and bold decisions are required. Any loopholes need closing and there is no time to waste.
Alfa Laval to deliver the world’s first methanol-fired steam boiler systems
Alfa Laval is taking a pivotal role in driving the marine industry’s transition to carbon-neutral green methanol with its methanol-capable solutions. The company has expanded its portfolio of alternative fuel solutions with the introduction of methanol-fired Aalborg boiler systems that offer exceptional fuel flexibility, accommodating a wide range of fuel types including methanol. This addition marks a significant milestone in the marine industry as it will be the first time a methanol boiler will be installed onboard a ship.
With the marine industry´s increasing focus on low carbon-based solutions, Alfa Laval has secured significant orders for Aalborg boilers operating on methanol. The methanol-fired boiler solutions will be installed, for the first time, on new build container vessels and more deliveries are in the pipeline for cruise ships and tankers. Deliveries of the methanol boilers are scheduled to commence in late 2023.
The Aalborg boiler solutions are specifically designed with decarbonisation and fuel transition in mind. Besides operating on today’s fuels, including low-sulphur fuels, biofuels and LNG, they are designed for compatibility with methanol and other emission-reducing fuels. Alfa Laval’s “ready boiler” concept provides a future-proof platform, allowing for easy adjustments to the existing burner and boiler pressure section as needed.
"Our boiler solutions are designed to meet the growing demand for sustainable shipping and ensure readiness for today's and tomorrow's emission-reducing fuels, including methanol," says Jeppe Jacobsen, Head of Global Sales, Heat & Gas Systems, Alfa Laval. “Having been pioneers in delivering steam boilers for LNG, we are pleased to be the first to support our customers in their fuel transition with our methanol-fired boilers.”
Advanced technology for substantial fuel savings
Irrespective of the fuel choice, Aalborg boiler solutions ensure substantial fuel savings through exceptional thermal efficiency and the utilization of the innovative Turbo Clean, intelligent (TCi) technology. The TCi cleaning process not only enhances efficiency but also guarantees a prolonged boiler service life.
Alfa Laval has rigorously tested boiler operations with methanol at the Alfa Laval Test & Training Centre in Aalborg, Denmark (pictured) since early 2021. In November 2021, ABS granted Alfa Laval the first marine Approval in Principle for operating boilers on methanol. In less than two years, Alfa Laval is ready to deploy methanol boiler solutions for some of the largest shipowners, driving the adoption of boilers for alternative fuels across the maritime industry.
Alfa Laval is addressing a wider energy picture with both existing and new solutions. The Alfa Laval FCM Methanol fuel supply system and a wide range of heat exchangers for methanol have long been proven at sea. With the addition of the Aalborg boiler for methanol, Alfa Laval is supporting shipowners in the design of methanol-fuelled vessels.
ABS approves Provaris’ innovative compressed hydrogen technology
ABS has presented Provaris Energy with an Approval in Principle (AiP) for its innovative gaseous hydrogen floating storage concept in a ceremony at Nor-Shipping.
The solution, dubbed H2Leo, has a design capacity range of 300 to 600 tonnes of hydrogen, expandable to up to 2,000 tonnes. The unit is designed for various hydrogen supply chains and applications, including bunkering for the maritime sector, intermittent/buffer storage for green hydrogen production, and long-duration storage for excess renewable energy.
The AIP is the latest support from ABS for Provaris, following ABS review and approval for Provaris’ pioneering H2Neo design for a compressed H2 carrier, an industry first for a bulk hydrogen gas carrier.
“Safe and efficient storage and transportation of hydrogen at sea will be critical to the development and viability of the global hydrogen value chain,” said Christopher J. Wiernicki, ABS Chairman, President and CEO. “We have been working closely with Provaris, initially granting AiP in 2021 and subsequently reviewing their comprehensive FEED level package for the H2Neo. We are proud to continue to support this important work which has the potential to make a significant contribution to the global clean energy transition.”
“With an increasing demand for clean renewable energy, the ability to store compressed hydrogen is an integral part of the hydrogen supply chain,” said Martin Carolan, Provaris CEO. “Over the last 18 months, Provaris has been studying ways of leveraging its shipping IP, engineering and Class approvals obtained to date on cargo containment and ship designs, to develop a solution for the industry that is in need of economic hydrogen storage at scale.”
The H2Leo will have two cargo tanks with independent isolation, safety valves and manifolds for compressed hydrogen transfer. ABS has conducted risk and safety workshops to assess and mitigate hydrogen handling risks.
ABS will work with Provaris toward final design approval, cargo tank testing and construction. The H2Leo class will have a fixed beam and depth of 31 metres and 17 metres respectively, with length and draft varying according to the specified cargo capacity.
The development of H2Leo will run parallel to the remaining engineering and approvals for the H2Neo carrier, targeting prototype testing and final Class approval later this year, with the unit available for construction in 2025.
Danelec ship performance monitoring solution boosts fleet digitalisation and decarbonisation programme for SeaTankers Group fleet
Maritime safety, data collection and ship performance monitoring leader Danelec has completed a comprehensive turnkey project from installation to commissioning of a cloud- connected ship performance monitoring solution on +120 merchant ships operated by SeaTankers Group (Frontline, Golden Ocean Group, SFL Corp, Avance Gas, FlexLNG). The state-of-the-art solution is designed to unlock fuel efficiency and reduce greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions by collecting and delivering data from diverse onboard sensors.
Combining Danelec’s Kyma Shaft Power Meter, Vessel Remote Server (VRS) and DanelecConnect maritime IoT infrastructure, the solution will support SeaTankers Group’s long-term focus on maintaining a modern, energy efficient fleet as a key environmental pillar in its company-wide sustainability strategy.
Configured in close co-operation with third party equipment manufacturers to ensure compatibility regardless of the type of machinery onboard, the ship performance monitoring solution places the Danelec VRS as a central hub for collection and transfer of data from the Voyage Data Recorder (VDR) and other sensors including shaft power meters and fuel flow meters, as well as power management and alarm monitoring systems.
The data collected and transferred from the vessels via Danelec's IoT gateway is processed and analysed on DanelecConnect cloud infrastructure, so insight and information can be accessed anywhere in world. It provides a fact-based and trustworthy foundation for SeaTankers Group ship managers, technical staff and data scientists to unlock operational efficiencies in the context of, for example, reducing fuel consumption through digital twins, voyage optimization and adapting engine and generator usage according to conditions.
“Digital twins increase our ability to identify future hazards and to take timely and qualitative actions, maintaining our position as a premium operator,” said Lars Pedersen, CTO, Frontline Management AS.
“Our digitalisation strategy demands vendors with a proven track record of delivering cost-effective, high-quality solutions for the acquisition of critical vessel data and we’re confident that both the onboard and cloud aspects of Danelec’s ship performance monitoring solution will help us achieve ambitious environmental sustainability goals.”
“Our technology agnostic approach to ship performance monitoring allows us to connect onboard systems and sensors from a wide variety of manufacturers and ensure that the resulting standardised information is easily actionable in order to lower fuel consumption and resulting GHG emissions, while improving operational efficiency to reduce costs,” said Christian Kock, CCO, Danelec Marine A/S.
Sales start and first orders received for Alfa Laval AQUA Blue E2 freshwater generator
The Alfa Laval AQUA Blue E2 freshwater generator is now available for sale. Announced in late 2022, the AQUA Blue E2 is a two-stage addition to the AQUA Blue freshwater generator family. The first customers, A.P. Moller - Maersk and Grimaldi Group, are ready to take advantage of its remarkable energy efficiency.
Like all AQUA Blue freshwater generators, the AQUA Blue E2 uses a single plate pack for the desalination process of evaporation, separation and condensation. By applying Alfa Laval’s 3 in 1 AQUA plate technology in two stages, it reduces seawater flow needs, energy use and related CO2 emissions. Providing up to 100 m3 of fresh water per day, it consumes 50% less electrical power than conventional single- and two-stage freshwater generators.
“The AQUA Blue E2 can be a powerful tool for improving EEDI, EEXI or CII,” says Alfa Laval’s Serdar Sengun, Head of Marine Heat Transfer. “With its two stages, it can provide twice the amount of fresh water for the waste heat energy put in. Alternatively, it can produce a given amount of fresh water with around half the waste heat input. By using the surplus heat to generate electricity with the Alfa Laval E-PowerPack, for example, the vessel can reduce its net energy consumption even more.”
The energy-saving advantages of the AQUA Blue E2 are attractive as shipowners work to decarbonize. Interest has been high since the solution was announced to the market, and deliveries to the first two customers are already in progress.
Prior to the official launch, A.P. Moller - Maersk purchased the AQUA Blue E2 for installation on a methanol-fuelled feeder that will be the world’s first carbon-neutral liner vessel.
Benny Hilstrom, Head of Machinery at Maersk’s Fleet Technology department, says: “We have set ambitious targets for the entire A.P. Moller - Maersk business to achieve net zero emissions in 2040. As we lead the way in decarbonizing global logistics, we seek the most efficient technologies for all onboard processes, this also includes generating fresh water in the most efficient way.”
Grimaldi Group has selected the AQUA Blue E2 for ten PCTC vessels to be built in China. For the Italian shipowner, it is important that the freshwater generation process on board is as environmentally friendly as possible, and additional features like non-glued gaskets are a valuable complement to the energy savings.
“We choose our equipment with care for both efficiency and our crews,” says Ship Design Project Engineer Antonietta De Rosa. “The AQUA Blue E2 combines energy efficiency with ease of maintenance, the goals we aim for every day.”
The AQUA Blue E2 freshwater generator is now available for general sale. It joins the proven single-stage models in the AQUA Blue family, which provide maximum capacities of 18 m3 or 60 m3 per day.
KR grants Approval in Principle to Samsung Heavy Industries’ LCO2 carrier
Korean Register (KR) has awarded an AIP (Approval in Principle) for a 40,000 m3 LCO2 carrier developed by Samsung Heavy Industries (SHI) in collaboration with KR. The certificate was presented during a ceremony held at Nor-Shipping 2023 in Oslo, Norway.
This achievement is the result of a successful collaboration between SHI and KR, with SHI designing the cargo tank and hull structure, while KR verified the suitability of the design by reviewing classification rules and related regulations.
Among various technologies that have been developed to reduce carbon throughout the entire industry, LCO2 carriers are expected to play an important role as a major means of transportation for CCUS (Carbon Capture, Utilization and Storage) technology, which captures CO2 generated from fuel combustion or industrial processes, and either utilizes it as a valuable resource or securely stores it underground, making a significant contribution to carbon reduction and global warming prevention.
Carbon dioxide (CO2) exists in a gaseous state at room temperature and must be maintained in a liquid state at low temperature and high pressure for mass transportation. LCO2 carriers need to be designed to maintain optimal temperature and pressure for economic efficiency, and special attention is required to prevent phase change of CO2 during operation of the vessels.
To maintain high pressure, the cargo tank of the LO2 carrier incorporates the IMO TYPE Independent-C tank. Furthermore, the vessel is constructed using materials specifically engineered to withstand low temperatures, to secure sufficient strength and durability even in environments exposed to low temperatures.
Given that LCO2 has a higher density than LNG, more in-depth verification of structural safety for cargo holds, cargo tanks and support structures is required. The LCO2 carrier has demonstrated reliability through structural analysis that evaluates structural strength and fatigue strength in high-stress areas.
YEON Kyujin, Head of KR’s Plan Approval Center, said: “Through this LCO2 Carrier AIP, we have laid an important foundation for the commercialization of large LCO2 carrier technology. We will continue to provide technical support for CO2 capture, storage and burial technology and decarbonization technology in the future.”
AHN Youngkyu, Vice President of SHI said: “Our LCO2 carrier is a good example of SHI’s advanced eco-friendly technology. We will dedicate ourselves to develop technologies to achieve carbon neutrality in the shipbuilding and maritime industry.”
MOL goes live with Marlink smart hybrid network solution including Starlink LEO services
Smart network and digital solutions company Marlink is enabling Japanese shipping Company Mitsui O.S.K. Lines (MOL) to evaluate the impact of LEO Internet services on business sustainability and crew welfare.
Under an agreement struck at the end of 2022, the leading Japanese shipping company will assess past, present and future user experiences and explore access how Internet access can contribute to the company’s crew recruitment and retention strategy, using the low-latency Starlink service within Marlink’s smart hybrid network solution.
MOL is using Starlink’s LEO solution onboard its fleet of car carriers to provide an additional layer of high-speed connectivity across its fleet, which Marlink has combined with Sealink VSAT and L-band backup to create a next-generation hybrid network solution, controlled and monitored by Marlink's XChange management platform. Starlink’s LEO service forms an integral part of Marlink’s hybrid network solution, designed to provide a reliable Committed Information Rate (CIR) in combination with unparalleled Maximum Information Rate (MIR) performance.
As a provider of a modern, global fleet of car carriers, MOL will study Internet usage patterns at sea and identify future needs through surveys of crew members to assess the added value of LEO Internet services. The Future Illustration Project will examine, among other subjects, how Marlink's unique network solution can enhance operational safety and boost information transparency for all crew members through better access to social networks, applications, chat tools and the MOL intranet.
“Despite the advances in ship technology and navigation, seafarers have faced persistent challenges in communication and connectivity at both their work and life.” said Ryusuke Kimura, Chief Digital Information Officer, MOL. “MOL firmly believes that ensuring reliable and efficient communication infrastructure on ships not only enhances the recruitment and retention of proficient crew members but also paves the way for seamless digital transformations that revolutionize the industry.”
“The availability of high bandwidth, low latency internet access will enable the crew to access social media, entertainment services or improve the quality of video calls to keep in touch with friends and family at any private time,” said Tore Morten Olsen, President Maritime, Marlink. “MOL will not only benefit from a more qualified and motivated crew but will also be able to use the higher bandwidth provided to optimise digital tools and operational processes to remain compliant with shipping operations in transition to a zero-carbon economy.”
EC President Ursula von der Leyen to be godmother of landmark Maersk green methanol-powered vessel
Ursula von der Leyen, the President of the European Commission, has kindly accepted to be named godmother of A.P. Moller - Maersk’s new feeder vessel, the world’s first ever container vessel sailing on green methanol.
The Commission President will formally name the vessel at a ceremony in Copenhagen on September 14, where it arrives on its maiden voyage, before heading to its regular operational route in the Baltic Sea. The Danish flagged 172-metre-long vessel is a key milestone for Maersk plans to achieve net zero greenhouse gas emissions in 2040 across the entire business.
“Just a few years ago, this iconic ship was merely a vision. Now, it is a reality, and we are honoured that Ursula von der Leyen has agreed to be its godmother,” says Vincent Clerc, CEO of Maersk. “The European Commission, and especially its President, have been instrumental in steering the European continent towards an ambitious, green future. Our new vessel serves as a concrete example of the transformations that EU policies are supporting.
“This truly is the embodiment of the green deal in action.”
The 2,100 TEU container vessel will stay in the Toldboden area of the Copenhagen harbour for about a week and be the focal point of several events and activities related to the shipping industry’s effort to decarbonise. The vessel will provide real operational experience for Maersk seafarers handling the new engines and using green methanol as fuel, as the company prepares to receive a fleet of new, large ocean-going methanol engine powered ships from 2024.
To meet the ambitious 2040 target of net zero greenhouse gas emissions in time, Maersk aims to transport a minimum of 25% of Ocean cargo using green fuels by 2030, compared to a 2020 baseline. The landmark feeder vessel is a major step toward the long-term objective of gradually renewing the entire fleet to operate solely on green fuels.
LR approves SHI Autonomous Navigation System and SVESSEL Communication System
Lloyd’s Register (LR) has awarded Approval in Principle (AiP) to Samsung Heavy Industries (SHI) for its Samsung Autonomous Ship (SAS) Autonomous Navigation System and SVESSEL® Communication System, a key result of a Joint Development Project formed in early 2023.
The autonomous software for Autonomous Navigation System features an Integrated Bridge System, situational awareness tools and SHI’s Anti-Collision Decision-Making System. By integrating these features with current navigation equipment SHI’s technology can be used to eliminate human error, which accounts for the majority of maritime related accidents.
SAS software can be installed easily onto a ships system next to other software and evaluates collision risks around a vessel, whilst controlling the direction and speed of a ship to avoid objects.
The SVESSEL® system includes features for monitoring, calculation, evaluation analysis of ship’s energy usage status and assist operation of optimal trim and route/speed. Also, UX (User experience) design is designed so that not only the crew but also the shore staff can conveniently check the functions and use them easily.
As part of the AiP process, SHI provided the concept and specific design for the SAS Autonomous Navigation System and SVESSEL® whilst LR carried out a comprehensive review of the technical drawings and documents for the design of SAS and SVESSEL®, in accordance with the latest LR rules and regulations for autonomous and remote access ships.
Young-Doo Kim, North East Asia TSO Manager, Lloyd’s Register, said: “This AiP is another landmark moment in LR and SHI’s joint development project for autonomous ship ready design. The Autonomous Navigation System and SVESSEL communication system developed by SHI as part of Samsung Autonomous Ship offers a wide variety of integrated digital solutions to mitigate human error at sea, a fundamental requirement if we are to reduce the number of maritime accidents and make our industry safer. LR is extremely proud to have played a part in this significant project.”
Hyun Joe Kim, Vice President and Head of Autonomous Ship Research Center, Samsung Heavy Industries, said: "SAS can help crews by providing collision alarms and reliable routes to avoid the collision in a variety encounters, which contributes to the safer marine environments. I'm very pleased to receive the AiP for SAS and SVESSEL from LR. It is an another proof of very good collaborations between SHI and LR during the certification process as we have done before. SHI continues the development of technologies on digitalization and automatic navigation to provide the most innovative ships to our customers."
The AiP follows the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding at Posidonia 2022 where the project to develop autonomous ready ship design to support maritime digitalisation was announced alongside certification for SHI’s digitised electronic logbook system SVESSEL® eLogbook (pictured) and a Statement of Fact for SHI’s SVESSEL® CII Solution as part the JDP between SHI and LR.
First of six energy-efficient container ships for Asiatic Lloyd delivered to ABS class
The ALS CERES has been delivered to ABS class and is the first in a series of six 7,100 teu container carriers designed by Shanghai Merchant Ship Design and Research Institute (SDARI) and built by Dalian Shipbuilding Industry Company (DSIC) for Asiatic Lloyd Maritime LLP, Singapore.
The new, energy-efficient hull design and a fuel-efficient main engine that is compliant with NOx Tier III requirements, translate to a vessel with a low fuel consumption in comparison to its peers of the same vessel type, size and service speed.
“The ALS CERES is a great example of how the maritime industry is implementing energy-efficient technologies to meet global decarbonisation targets,” said Pier Carazzai, ABS Vice President of Engineering Europe and Middle East.
The vessel is assigned with the ABS Ammonia Fuel Ready Level 1C and Methanol Fuel Ready Level 1C Class notations, indicating that a concept-level design study has been carried out for future conversion to ammonia and methanol fuelling.
The vessel is also one of the first to feature the ABS FOC notation, an enhanced standard reflecting additional fire-fighting methods.
“The ALS CERES is Asiatic Lloyd’s first ABS-classed newbuild vessel, and we appreciate the support from ABS in the successful conclusion of this project,” said Friedrich Bunnemann, Managing Partner of Asiatic Lloyd.
Onboard Maritime partners with South Shields Marine School to support digital learning opportunities
Onboard Maritime (OM) has partnered with South Shields Marine School, part of South Tyneside College, to support their students through every stage of their training and create career progression pathways for senior officers through the integration of both shore-based and digital education programmes.
It is the first collaboration of its sort, which brings together a world-renowned centre of excellence for maritime and training in South Shields Marine School and the innovative approach to digital education offered by Onboard Maritime which has been recognised within the UK and globally.
The Cadet Development Programme, designed by Onboard Maritime, creates a seamless, integrated process between the college, training providers, and sponsor whilst providing efficient and effective digital learning and support to the cadet.
The ‘Second Certificate Pathway’ offers maritime professionals studying for their Chief Mate MCA SQA exams the opportunity to study flexibly by undertaking the Onboard Maritime fully supported online programme, before attending South Shields Marine School for a focussed period of study and the opportunity to complete any ancillary courses they require.
Angus Ferguson (pictured), CEO and Founder of Onboard Maritime said: “We’re delighted to be part of this innovative partnership with South Shields Marine School, inspiring people to pursue a maritime career in an engaging and flexible way.”
Simon Ashton, Principle of South Shields Marine School, said: “This partnership is another step on the journey to deliver against the principles of the Maritime 2050 report, keeping pace with rapidly changing technologies whilst consistently improving accessibility and removing barriers to training. Onboard Maritime enable us to enhance our student offering to provide efficient and effective digital learning and support.”
The partnership between Onboard Maritime and South Shields Marine School brings digital learning possibilities to the forefront whilst continuing to adapt traditional methods through a hybrid learning approach. It will help to transform the industry learning standards for cadets and young people considering a maritime career.
Growing number of seafarers reporting abuse, bullying, harassment and discrimination
Data from ISWAN’s helplines show that number of seafarers reporting abuse, bullying, harassment or discrimination increased by almost 50% in Q1 2023 compared to the previous quarter.
The International Seafarers’ Welfare and Assistance Network (ISWAN) has released the first in a series of quarterly infographics sharing data from its helpline services, providing the maritime sector with intelligence on global seafarer issues with the aim to drive positive change.
In its infographic, ISWAN highlights increasing reports of abuse, bullying, harassment and discrimination from seafarers as a key trend across its helpline services. Cases involving these issues increased by 45% from Q4 2022 to Q1 2023 across all ISWAN helplines, which offer practical, emotional and wellbeing support to seafarers of any nationality. The majority of these cases related to abusive or bullying behaviour by senior officers, and 19% involved sexual abuse or sexual harassment.
On ISWAN’s Yacht Crew Help helpline, cases involving abuse, bullying, harassment and discrimination increased by 125% quarter-on-quarter, highlighting a key problem area for the superyacht industry to tackle.
Simon Grainge, ISWAN’s Chief Executive Officer, said: “ISWAN’s helplines SeafarerHelp and Yacht Crew Help are often the first port of call for any seafarer seeking support. Hundreds of seafarers contact our helplines every month and tell us about the problems they are facing, and we want to share the key trends and issues identified with the maritime sector to influence change.
“This data is also informing our own work at ISWAN. For example, we are working with industry partners to produce a personal safety resource for those seeking work on board yachts, which will be released soon, in response to an increase in calls to Yacht Crew Help from often green crew who had experienced abuse (often sexual) whilst working on board.
“ISWAN is also a member of the Center for Ocean Policy and Economics (COPE°) Working Group for Psychological Safety, Bullying and Sexual Assault and Harassment in the Maritime Sector, and we are involved in a growing network of like-minded individuals and organisations who are coming together to find and develop preventative solutions to this growing crisis.”
UKHO signs MoUs with Port of London Authority and Peel Ports Group, strengthening port collaboration
The UK Hydrographic Office (UKHO) has signed new Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) with the Port of London Authority (PLA) and Peel Ports Group to enable greater collaboration in the port sector, the organisation has announced today.
The new strategic partnerships will help to improve the supply, management and sharing of hydrographic and marine data and support the UKHO’s ambitions to work more closely with the UK ports and harbours community.
The agreements will help to foster improved data exchange between the ports and the UKHO. Taken together, PLA and Peel Ports Group are responsible for handling more than 120 million tonnes of cargo every year. Data from the port groups’ operations will be securely shared with the UKHO for the purposes of improving safety and efficiency at these critical hubs of domestic trade.
The MoUs will also enable closer collaboration on the development and implementation of next generation navigational services. This will include the testing of new solutions based on the International Hydrographic Organization’s new S-100 data standards and joint efforts to find more opportunities to digitalise the port environment.
Speaking on the MoUs, Paul Marks, Head of Data Partnerships at UKHO, said: “Maintaining close relationships between the UKHO and ports has always been hugely important to support both safety of life at sea and the UK’s international seaborne trade. Ports sit at a critical point in the supply chain. Their unique role comes with unique data which, in an increasingly digital industry, will be critical to the future of navigation, voyage optimisation and to decarbonisation.
“These MoUs will enable us to more closely collaborate with the Port of London Authority and Peel Ports Group and work together with them to ensure a safer, more efficient and more sustainable maritime sector.”
The PLA is responsible for 95 miles of the River Thames, including the surveying of over 400 square miles of riverbed to support safe and efficient passage. This MoU signing follows a successful collaboration between the UKHO and PLA to conduct the first real-world sea trial of gridded bathymetry data using the S-102 standard.
By using multibeam survey data collected by PLA and processed by the UKHO, the organisations worked with SEAiq Pilot to carry out a piloted passage on a commercial vessel to evidence how S-102 data can improve situational awareness and navigational safety for mariners.
John Dillon-Leetch, Port Hydrographer at PLA, added: “Having a documented MoU between the PLA and the UKHO in addition to our bilateral port agreement is a significant achievement and commitment by both organisations. We will be focusing our working groups to seek efficiencies and developments in the areas of ENC (Electronic Navigation Chart) production including the S-100 suite of data standards, as well as automating processes related to data processing, data management and data services.
“It is an exciting time for all of us involved in hydrography and this MoU supports the UKHO and PLA principle of ‘collect once, use many times’ which is key to developing a more sustainable, and successful UK maritime industry.”
Peel Ports Group is responsible for seven ports and terminals across the UK – from Clydeport in Scotland to London Medway in the Southeast – and the handling of 70 million tonnes of cargo each year. The new MoU between UKHO and Peel Ports Group will help to formalise existing avenues of collaboration, paving the way for closer data and knowledge exchange.
Gary Doyle, Group Harbour Master at Peel Ports Group, commented: “I am absolutely delighted that we have signed this MoU with the UK Hydrographic Office. It recognises the investment we as a company have made in hydrographic excellence and our shareholders’ willingness to embrace innovation. We are very much looking forward to the continuation of this collaboration and the opportunities it presents for technological development and the advancement of navigational services.”
INTERCARGO members surpass industry average performance in both deficiencies and detentions
Despite a steady increase in port state control detention rates following the pandemic in all regions, INTERCARGO-entered vessels consistently outdid industry performance indicators in both deficiencies and detentions, as shown by the latest edition of its annual Benchmarking Report.
The Benchmarking Bulk Carriers 2022-2023 Report provides information on detention rates and deficiencies per inspection (DPI) across Flag States, Class, insurers, and Port State Control, in addition to owners’ benchmarking and a review of the negative performance indicators currently affecting the sector.
Deficiencies per inspection (DPI) rates remain unchanged and in line with previous years’ Benchmarking Reports, the 11 leading Class Societies (IACS Members), which class over 95% of the bulk carrier market, performed significantly better than non-IACS classed vessels in terms of DPI, with an average of 1.69 vs 4.31.
AMSA tops the list of the nine regional PSC authorities and two national PSC regimes with a detention rate of 8.52% for vessels calling at Australian ports vs the average across all authorities of 2.34%, while it also has the worst DPI rate at 3.98 vs the average across all authorities of 1.55.
As expected, the leading Flags outperformed the global fleet with a DPI of 1.63 in 2022 albeit a slight increase compared to last year.
In 2022 the global bulk carrier fleet was registered with 92 Flags, an increase of four compared to 2021 and out of these, 15 have fleets of 100 bulk carriers or more, accounting for just over 89% of the global bulker fleet. Panama, Marshall Islands and Liberia continue to be the three dominant Flags, however, Bangladesh also joined the leading line-up for 2022 with 104 registered vessels.
Commenting on the 2022-23 Report, Paul Markides, Marine Quality Manager at INTERCARGO, says: “As the fourteenth edition of the benchmarking report shows, our members are making great efforts to help us to achieve our ambitious aims and objectives and we commend them for this.
“Detention rates and DPI rates are once again both lower for INTERCARGO members and it is pleasing to see that whilst there has been an overall increase in detention rates in the industry as a whole, the ratio of members’ vessels being detained as part of the total dry bulk fleet fell in 2022.”
INTERCARGO members may view the report here Benchmarking Report 2022-2023 (login required), while non-members may order the report from the Secretariat at info@intercargo.org.
Milford Haven pilot boats to feature Zelim’s rescue technology
The Port of Milford Haven, the biggest port in Wales and largest energy port in the UK, plans to move forward with an extensive trialling package of Zelim’s innovative Swift rescue conveyor on its operational pilot vessels. The port may also utilise this technology on their new, state-of-the-art Pilot Vessel, currently in the final stages of contract award.
The Port of Milford Haven operates in some of the highest sea states seen in ports globally, due to its geographical location and exposure to Atlantic swells. The Port’s new pilot vessel is touted to be the world’s most advanced to date and will be equipped to deploy in the heaviest conditions.
Zelim was initially contracted by the Port of Milford Haven in April 2023 to run a demonstration of its Swift conveyor technology on the River Forth to pilots and launch crews. The demonstration saw multiple man overboard recoveries successfully completed in under one minute from the point of first contact.
Jaime Furlong, Pilot at Milford Haven, said: “With the unique and demanding environmental conditions experienced in Milford Haven Port, pilot safety and exposure time in the water during man overboard occurrences are critical. The opportunity to see the Zelim Swift system at work, with its potential application for our operation, was excellent. The system enables timely extraction of a casualty from the water, allied with an easy deployment system. I look forward to trialling this on our current fleet and developing the system to operate in our challenging conditions.”
All pilots and crew attending the demonstration quickly learned how to operate the Swift and rescued casualties from the water themselves.
Wayne Busby, Watch Manager at Milford Haven, said: “The Swift system has the potential to become a market leader in man overboard recovery. As an operator, I have never seen or used a system that recovers casualties so quickly and with so little manual effort. I look forward to seeing the trials conducted at Milford Haven to ascertain its capability in heavy sea states.”
Zelim will work closely with the Port of Milford Haven to optimise the current design for their specific needs. The port aims to lead the field in pilot vessel operations and sees the technology as a critical step to setting a new benchmark in maritime safety.
John Warneford, Assistant Harbourmaster at Milford Haven, said: “Having seen the Swift system demonstrated at Seawork in 2022, I was immediately impressed with the ease of use and speed of recovery that the system achieved. The design and operation of the system also present advantages in reducing potential further injury to personnel being recovered, particularly when recovering in a swell.
“With the procurement of a new heavy weather pilot launch underway, it was an ideal opportunity to approach Zelim and investigate how this system could be incorporated into our operations to improve safety and capability for our crews and pilots.”
Ultimately, the tweaked design will be suitable for pilot vessels globally. The team at Zelim is keen to refine the Swift for this market with an end user that will put the technology through its paces.
Sam Mayall, CEO of Zelim, commented: “Confidence at Zelim is high after proving the Swift for the offshore wind market, where it performed twenty times faster than existing equipment in a recent demo. Pilot vessels present a new challenge as they provide a vital service in the very worst conditions.
“We are excited to be working with one of the leaders in pilot boat operations, providing them with next generation man overboard recovery equipment and potentially saving lives in a new market. The team at Milford Haven bring with them real life experience of day-to-day operations and emergency situations that are essential to developing a solution truly fit for purpose.”
Development and testing will take place over the coming months as the Port of Milford Haven looks to put the Swift through its paces in challenging conditions.
ABS tackles real-time issues in container shipping landscape with maritime experts
ABS hosted an industry-leading containership summit in Germany to provide a holistic overview of the container shipping landscape, the current and developing regulatory framework, as well as strategic decisions in terms of emerging technologies and alternative fuels options that will shape the low-carbon future of container shipping and drive market growth.
“We expect the IMO to release more ambitious regulations this year to move the industry forward with decarbonisation goals,” said Vassilios Kroustallis, ABS Senior Vice President, Global Business Development. “This event put an important spotlight on the container sector, a part of the industry that has seen steep falls in freight rates, which rose during the pandemic to record levels. By hosting events such as these with influential voices, we are exploring solutions to support owners and operators today to address alternative fuels and their supply chains, acknowledge older vessels and their compliance risks as well as discuss existing technologies that can support operations strategies right now.”
The event began with an overview of the market from Jan Tiedemann, Vice President of Liner Strategy at Alphaliner, followed by updates from Christopher Perrocco and Rene Laursen from ABS, who provided insights into regulatory and sustainability trends.
“Methanol, LNG, and ammonia are not competing fuels but complementary fuels. All of them are needed to downsize container shipping’s carbon footprint,” said Tiedemann.
Next, the agenda featured landmark perspectives on decarbonization from MAN Energy Solutions, Thome Group and ABS with Alexander Feindt, Global Business Development Manager at MAN Energy Solutions, presenting ‘Technology as an Enabler for Decarbonisation of Shipping,’ Torbjorn Lie, Business Development Manager at Thome Group, presenting ‘A Greener Workhorse – Feasibility Study of a Methanol Conversion for a 2,500 TEU Vessel,’ and Christoph Rasewsky (pictured speaking), ABS Global Container Sector Lead, sharing cutting-edge research on how to eliminate 97 percent of emissions at present-day slot costs.
“Carbon neutral transportation can be achieved at current slot costs, but clean fuel supply is the biggest constraint,” said Rasewsky. “Our analysis shows that by combining operational efficiencies with energy-saving devices such as air lubrication and design improvements in new builds, the container sector could still operate within the range of slot costs recorded today using conventional fuel.”
The final portion of the event featured a panel discussion titled ‘From a Monoculture to a Mixed Culture - The Take-off of the Alternative Fuels Landscape’. Moderated by Namrata Nadkarni of Intent Communications, the panel included Johannes Schuermann, Sales Director from Good Fuels; Lars Justus Ravens, CEO of eCap Marine; Tessa Major, Vice President of Bunkering at Yara Clean Ammonia, and Torben Nørgaard CTO of Mærsk Mc-Kinney Møller Center for Zero Carbon Shipping.
Cargo Care Solutions expands Singapore office to satisfy market demand
Driven by surging business levels in the past three years, leading maritime cargo equipment specialist Cargo Care Solutions recently opened an expanded field and sales office in Singapore to meet demand. According to Peter Peltenburg, CEO of the Dutch-based company, the Singapore office fully meets the increased demands for Cargo Care specialities – cargo access equipment and cargo pumps.
“We can now support both the tanker and container sectors with a workshop for servicing cargo pumps, a facility with a full line of cargo pump spare parts, and a base for repair and maintenance of hatch covers and container lashing equipment, together with locally based sales managers and sales support,” he says. Previously the focus was on cargo access equipment as well as limited services for cargo pumps.
With the strong tanker market increasingly active in Asia Pacific, Cargo Care Solutions is committed to providing excellent maritime services to these vessels. “The Singapore location gives us immediacy in supporting our customers in Singapore, Hong Kong, China, and the rest of the region, and enables us to add more services,” Peltenburg says. The new office, at 29A Benoi Road, is located in the Jurong district, near the port of Singapore.
Cargo Care Solutions, headquartered in Rotterdam, serves more than 1,500 global customers. Its team of more than 50 employees is growing as this independent, all-round provider of maritime cargo care services continues to be in demand.
Record turnout, big names and brilliant sunshine for Nor-Shipping 2023
Last week’s Nor-Shipping 2023 proved to be one of those ‘you had to be there’ moments, say the organisers. A record turnout at the exhibition, big names at the conferences and a social scene that basked in unbroken sunshine created, in the words of Sidsel Norvik, Director, Nor-Shipping, “the perfect arena to support our great global industry.”
Initial analysis shows a total of 30 000 entries into the exhibition halls, where visitors experienced around 892 exhibiting companies, and total participant numbers of over 50,000, including those at conferences, networking events and official social gatherings. These figures do not include those attending the huge array of partner and exhibitor events in Oslo.
In terms of knowledge sharing activity, the level of speakers, including US diplomat John F. Kerry, Dr Andrew Forrest of Fortescue Metals Group, Nobel laureate Joseph E. Stiglitz, and IMO Secretary-General Kitack Lim, all of whom appeared at the Ocean Leadership conference, definitely raised the bar.
“We really do feel we’ve been able to offer something for everyone with ambitions within the ocean space,” notes Norvik. “We’ve tried to span the entire world of ocean business, joining the dots between sustainability and commercial development, to give our unique global audience real value. And, of course, they themselves have been the star attraction, creating an atmosphere, sense of engagement and new partnerships that should deliver benefits far into the future.
“We’d like to thank everyone that came to Nor-Shipping 2023 and made it so special. We can’t wait to see you all again in 2025.”
The next Nor-Shipping will take place in Lillestrøm and Oslo, Norway on 2-6 June 2025.
World Fuel Services to begin bunkering operations in Jamaica with Scott Petroleum
World Fuel Services will establish new bunkering services in Jamaica, working with Scott Petroleum, a leading distributor of petroleum products and services throughout the Caribbean.
The creation of a physical supply network for bunker fuel supply in Jamaica, a major bunkering hub in the Caribbean, will combine the experience, expertise, and resources of two industry leaders, providing an unparalleled level of service to World Fuel Services customers in the region. Principal petroleum fuel products available will include high-quality straight-run VLSFO 0.5%, LSMGO 0.1%, and HFO 2% produced by the Petrojam refinery in Kingston.
World Fuel Services has been a leader in marine fuel trading and brokering for over three decades. With a proven track record of delivering high-quality fuel and exceptional customer service to the marine industry worldwide, World Fuel Services has amassed a huge body of expertise and connections in more than 1,400 seaports around the world.
With over twenty years of experience, Scott Petroleum Ltd. is well known to all players in the region for its exceptional service in physical bunker supply in Jamaica and has built an unparalleled reputation for reliability, safety, and efficiency.
In combining forces, World Fuel Services and Scott Petroleum will offer a seamless and efficient supply chain for bunkering operations in Jamaican ports so that World Fuel Services customers can be sure they receive the highest quality fuel on time, every time.
For any World Fuel Services customer bunkering in Jamaica, Scott Petroleum will provide bunker service delivery on the ground with knowledge of the local market. World Fuel Services will provide pricing solutions, credit financing and first-class operations support.
Joe Gowen (pictured), senior vice president Marine – Americas, says: “With a strong focus on safety and environmental responsibility, we are committed to upholding the highest standards of operational excellence. No matter your vessel, you can trust World Fuel Services and Scott Petroleum to provide the fuel you need to keep moving forward when bunkering in Jamacia, with an exceptional level of customer service.”
Bunkering operations will ramp up in Jamaican ports starting in July.
WinGD enhances fuel-flexible efficiency with Variable Compression Ratio
Swiss marine power company WinGD has introduced a core engine technology that for the first time eliminates the need for ship operators to compromise on optimal combustion when using multiple fuels. Variable Compression Ratio (VCR), jointly developed with Mitsui E&S DU Co (MESDU), will be installed on a vessel powered by an X62DF engine and then rolled out across selected engines of the X-DF engine portfolio.
An engine’s compression ratio is usually a fixed parameter, playing a direct role in power and fuel efficiency. Because fuels have different ideal compression ratios, in dual-fuel engines designers have had to select which fuel to optimise for. With VCR, the engine adjusts to each fuel’s optimal compression, improving fuel efficiency for operators who want the flexibility to choose between diesel, LNG or bio- or e-fuel equivalents depending on availability and cost.
Marcel Ott (pictured), General Manager Application Engineering, WinGD, said: “VCR finally brings compression without compromise to marine dual-fuel engines. This breakthrough, the result of several years of work with MESDU, comes at a crucial time in the maritime industry as operators increasingly look for the ability to switch between fuels without sacrificing power, efficiency or emissions.”
In trials on a 6X72DF test engine at MESDU’s facilities in Japan, VCR reduced fuel consumption and CO2 emissions by 6% when running on diesel mode. Although the engine had previously been optimised for gas mode, improvements were also evident when using LNG, with fuel consumption and emissions reduced by 3%. The improvement was achieved because the engine was originally configured to a compression ratio that favoured LNG while still offering good diesel performance. With VCR, this compromise is no longer required.
As well as optimising compression ratios for different fuels, VCR can also benefit engines operating under different ambient conditions and intake air compositions, such as when using exhaust gas recirculation. This makes it a critical advance as shipping adopts the new fuels and technologies that will allow it to reach decarbonisation targets.
Compression ratio is altered by changing the piston position to adjust combustion chamber volume. The simple mechanical configuration has no impact on engine footprint or installation requirements. VCR can also be adjusted for part load operation, meaning relatively larger savings can be achieved at the low speeds that operators may consider to further reduce their emissions.
WinGD plans to introduce VCR as an option for its X72DF, X62DF and short-stroke X62DF-S engines, with retrofit packages available after the technology is introduced for newbuilds. A wider portfolio roll out will be considered based on market demand.
UKEF support helps workboat manufacturer charter new waters
A Wirral-based specialist manufacturer of boats serving search and rescue, defence and security sectors has won major international contracts after receiving £5 million in support through UK Export Finance (UKEF).
Marine Specialised Technology Group (MST) designs, manufactures and maintains rigid-hulled inflatable and high-speed workboats for use worldwide.
Through UKEF’s General Export Facility (GEF) scheme, MST received a £5 million loan from NatWest bank. This working capital means that MST can access the bond lines and advanced payment guarantees it needed to win new, high-value contracts in Ireland and Italy, the latter of which is a new market for the manufacturer. Entry into the Italian market – one of Europe’s major shipbuilding economies – is a significant achievement for the business.
Opening the 2023 SeaWork Commercial Marine Exhibition in Southampton – the largest event of its kind in Europe – Minister of State at the Department for Business and Trade Nusrat Ghani said: “Shipbuilding is an integral part of the UK’s industrial heritage, which is why we want to create more investment and export opportunities in the sector.
“We are proud to have worked with UKEF to provide MST with the financial backing to win major new contracts across Europe, helping to create jobs, pay higher wages and grow the economy.”
The UKEF support also enabled contracts with major Dutch shipbuilder Damen Group to supply boats for naval frigates which Damen Naval is building. MST’s contribution will include ‘Fast Raiding, Intervention and Special Forces Craft’ and ‘Integrated Logistics Support’ packages.
Ben Kerfoot, Managing Director of Marine Specialised Technology Group, said: “UKEF’s support has been absolutely vital in our recent successes and growth as a business. Since receiving support from UKEF, we have been able to win contracts we never would have been able to consider before and enter new markets. It’s an incredibly exciting time for MST and we’re looking forward to the future.”
The GEF financing was supplied through NatWest bank.
Ian McGee, Relationship Director at NatWest, said: “We’re delighted to have been able to support MST to access the right funding package to facilitate their growth ambitions. It’s a fantastic UK success story to see them winning high-value contracts in overseas markets from their base in the Wirral and I look forward to continuing to work with all of the team at MST and supporting the business to thrive.”
Launched by UKEF in 2021, the GEF product provides exporters with access to flexible financing and has already unlocked over £180 million of working capital loans to UK businesses – 92% of which has gone to small and medium enterprises like MST.
This is just one example of how government support for a range of manufacturers – including boat-builders like MST as well as large ship-yards – is helping to realise the National Shipbuilding Strategy target of a 45% increase in UK marine engineering exports between 2022 and 2030. In September 2022, UKEF similarly provided £3 million in support to Parkol Marine Engineering, a family-owned shipbuilding business based in Yorkshire, to help it secure exporting opportunities in Ireland.
Sun Enterprises adds Starlink to Marlink's hybrid network solution to accelerate digital transformation
Smart network and digital solutions company Marlink will add Starlink LEO internet to the existing hybrid network solution provided to its long-term customer Sun Enterprises Ltd.
The Piraeus-based tanker and bulk carrier operator and manager will benefit from Marlink’s new concept Sealink NextGen service to enhance the adoption of digital tools and crew welfare applications.
Sealink NextGen combines GEO VSAT and MSS back-up with customers’ required mix of LEO or MEO connectivity, 5G and digital solutions, all controlled and managed via Marlink’s Xchange platform. Xchange enables remote maritime operations by ensuring that critical connectivity is always maintained, powering applications for business and crew.
Established in 1968 with roots dating back to 1878, Sun Enterprises serves as the consolidated operating company for a modern fleet of 20 tankers and dry bulk carriers with deadweight capacity of just under 2m tonnes.
Sun Enterprises has a long tradition of operating a safe efficient and environmentally-friendly fleet and is the recipient of numerous awards in this regard. Its commitment to these principles has resulted in well-established and vital relationships with the world’s leading oil and dry cargo companies.
The company has previously used L-Band communications solutions across the fleet, progressively migrating to higher bandwidth services. The addition of Starlink will bring much faster throughput and lower latency to the company’s business and crew communications, enabling the deployment of digital solutions and crew welfare services.
Designed to meet the next generation of user demand, the new hybrid solution will take advantage of software-defined routeing (SD-WAN), with applications assigned channels and priority for seamless delivery of data. Marlink will also provision network performance management tools to ensure that vessel managers have visibility on the fleet at all times.
“Sun Enterprises operates on core values that demonstrate a commitment to running our business with safety, professional integrity, innovation, diligence and teamwork and this DNA demands we adopt new approaches to our clients’ demands,” said Konstantinos Tsalikis, ICT Manager, Sun Enterprises. “Our work with Marlink has demonstrated that they can provide the best solutions in any combination that can scale as we move forward with more advanced business processes.”
“Sun Enterprises illustrates the approach of a vessel manager that must meet the highest possible demands for the quality of its operations and these days, higher bandwidth and lower latency communications are a must,” said Tore Morten Olsen, President, Maritime, Marlink. “Our blended solutions enable vessel operators to manage the transition to digitalisation operations in a way that reflects their core principles.”
Survitec opens new Southampton Service Centre
Global Survival Technology solutions provider Survitec has completed a major expansion of its UK servicing capability with the opening of a new service centre in the Port of Southampton.
The 10,000 sq. ft building, newly fitted out with equipment and facilities for the servicing and repair of liferafts, lifejackets, immersion suits and other safety equipment, will deliver increased capacity and faster turnaround times when meeting the needs of customers in the cruise, defence, Border Force and commercial shipping sectors.
“Our new Service Centre is strategically positioned in Southampton to be closer to our customers in the port – it will allow us swift access in and out of the docks to provide an enhanced service to ships,” said Iain Allan, Survitec’s Operations Manager based in Southampton.
“We spent many months searching for and fitting out the right facility in Southampton. We will now have the capability to service more than 2,000 liferafts a year, with room in our new location to expand to meet customer needs.”
Alongside reducing servicing turnaround by up to 50%, Survitec has increased its headcount to meet the demands of the new Service Centre by 20%.
A 3,000-litre water tank has been installed for testing liferafts and rescue boats, equipped with a davit launch frame for load testing. The centre also features a dedicated lifejacket servicing and repair area with a special platform to accommodate 151-man liferafts, a compressor for inflation and calibrated tools.
“The location of this new Service Centre effectively allows us to manage and build upon our offering to support our customers in the region.,” said Ronnie Vettese, Survitec’s Managing Director, UK Marine.
“Longer term, the new facility will enable us to expand upon our customer offering and to provide fire, lifeboat and mooring equipment services.”
Survitec’s latest Service Centre launched this week to coincide with Seawork, Europe’s largest commercial marine and workboat exhibition in Southampton.
The opening of the new Service Centre reinforces Survitec’s position as a world leader in the supply, inspection, testing, servicing and repair of safety and survival equipment, adding to a global footprint of more than 400 service centres covering 2,000 ports worldwide.
Bureau Veritas approves wind-assisted ship propulsion for VLCC and LNG carriers
Bureau Veritas (BV) has awarded an Approval in Principle (AiP) to Hyundai Heavy Industries (HHI), TotalEnergies Gas & Power and Mitsui O.S.K. Lines (MOL), for wind-assisted ship propulsion (WASP) on a Very Large Crude Carrier (VLCC) and a Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG) carrier.
The AiP was presented at Nor-Shipping in Oslo, marking the successful completion of a Joint Development Project (JDP) between all four companies to better understand and validate the potential for WASP on these ship types. Matthieu de Tugny, President of Bureau Veritas Marine & Offshore, personally presented the AiP certificates to the representatives of HHI, TotalEnergies and MOL at the event.
The JDP focused on three wind propulsion technologies, two of which were wing sails and one a rotor sail system. The principal conclusion of the project and the subsequent issuance of the AiP demonstrate that all of these systems are compatible with existing classification rules and regulations for VLCCs and LNG carriers, thereby paving the way for more detailed work to address specific risks that would enable detailed design and arrangement work to proceed.
BV actively participates in multiple WASP projects, supporting the development of innovative technologies. In March 2021, it released an update to its rule note for WIND PROPULSION SYSTEMS (WPS) – NR 206. Building on pre-existing BV rules released in 1987, the rule note provides the classification requirements for modern wind-powered ships. BV Rule Note NR206 provides load cases and coefficients for all types of wind propulsion technologies, including free standing rigs, wing sails, kite sails, suction sails, and rotors.
These dedicated rules serve as the key classification framework for wind assisted propulsion. Firstly, during the design review stage, the rules ensure the safety and proper integration of wind propulsion systems with other onboard systems. Secondly, throughout the vessel’s in-service life, the rules address survey regimes and maintenance requirements.
ICS welcomes Bangladesh ratification of the Hong Kong Convention
The International Chamber of Shipping (ICS) has welcomed the leadership shown by principal ship recycling country Bangladesh for agreeing to ratify the Hong Kong International Convention for the Safe and Environmentally Sound Recycling of Ships (Hong Kong Convention).
Until now 20 countries have ratified the Hong Kong International Convention, accounting for around 30% of all merchant shipping's combined gross tonnage. With Bangladesh’s commitment this brings the requirements for Convention being fulfilled to enter into force one step closer. The Convention must be ratified by at least 15 nations, accounting for 40% of global commercial shipping by gross tonnage, with a combined maximum annual ship recycling volume of not less than 3% of their total tonnage, in order to come into force.
John Stawpert, Senior Manager (Environment and Trade) of the ICS, commented: “Bangladesh shows leadership by committing to ratify the Convention. Our industry is international and ship recycling can only be effectively governed through a global system. Regional systems that ignore the economic realities of the industry are easily circumvented and this positive development will guarantee sufficient compliant recycling capacity under the oversight of national authorities and the United Nations regulator, the IMO.”
As the industry continues to push forward on its decarbonisation trajectory ship recycling will be of significant importance in meeting net zero emissions by 2050 as the existing fleet is decommissioned in coming years to be replaced by net zero vessels. Through the ratification of the Convention a supply of vessels for facilities that are compliant with the Hong Kong Convention will be guaranteed.
Stawpert added: “In 2018 Bangladesh committed to ratifying the Hong Kong Convention by 2023 through its Ship Recycle Act which preserves the terms of the Hong Kong Convention into national law, and Bangladesh began the process of improving its recycling capacity with its adoption. As with all parts of the maritime industry, ship breaking and recycling was impacted by the changes and challenges created by COVID-19 and this interrupted progress in improving facilities in Bangladesh to the programme defined in the Act.
“However, the two-year entry into force period following ratification of the Convention will allow those who suffered a shortfall in improvements due to this to catch up in terms of investment, infrastructure and training, and this can be assisted with funding from existing technical cooperation mechanisms.
“Environmental, Social and Governance factors and demands from charterers and customers has meant that Hong Kong Convention compliance has been the growing standard for sales for ship recycling and the process of recycling itself. Ratification by a major ship recycler such as Bangladesh further confirms this trend, and the entry into force of the convention will create the global level playing field that has been evolving for a generation. Compliance with the requirements of the Convention will therefore be essential for ship recyclers to secure their market share in the future.”
OCIMF begins phased roll-out of new SIRE 2.0 tanker inspection programme
The Oil Companies International Marine Forum (OCIMF) has announced that it has begun the phased roll-out of its new digitalised tanker inspection programme, SIRE 2.0, which will replace the existing Ship Inspection Report Programme (SIRE) used by the marine industry to assess a vessel's condition and operational standards.
SIRE 2.0 is being rolled-out in four phases, with Phase 1 of the transition now in progress and showing successful results. Phase 1 is the internal testing stage whereby a pre-selected group of Inspectors, Submitting Companies and Vessel Operators test the entire end-to-end system with the support of the OCIMF Secretariat.
As per the transition plan, Phase 1 will continue for one month or until all Phase 1 critical success factors are met. OCIMF will then activate Phase 2 of the roll-out plan. Phase 2 participants have already been engaged in preparation and are undertaking the necessary steps to ensure their readiness for a SIRE 2.0 transition inspection. During Phase 2, participants will test the entire end-to-end process without support from the OCIMF Secretariat.
All companies and individuals that have not been actively engaged for Phase 1 or Phase 2 will be provided with ample notice before Phase 3 is activated.
Phase 3 will be open to all users of the existing SIRE programme, offering participants the opportunity to conduct SIRE 2.0 inspections for familiarisation and testing purposes. All users are encouraged to engage in Phase 3 to test their readiness before the system goes live and SIRE 2.0 becomes the commercial inspection programme at Phase 4.
Aaron Cooper (pictured), OCIMF’s Programmes Director said: “The commencement of Phase 1 of the new SIRE 2.0 tanker inspection programme represents a significant step forward for all involved in tanker vetting. The phased roll-out was adopted in response to feedback from all stakeholders and ensures the readiness of the programme and its users. I am delighted to report that feedback from Phase 1 so far has been positive.”
“Inspectors have been well received onboard and have commented that the new regime is intuitive and practical. Vessel Operators and crew have been well prepared and Submitting Companies have also been positive about the outcomes. The key learning so far is that preparation by all programme users is critically important,” he added.
SIRE 2.0 has overhauled the way inspections are carried out and involves the introduction of tablet-based inspections, dynamic question sets, increased focus on the human element, a more comprehensive inspection process and enhanced policies and procedures.
As a digitalised programme, SIRE 2.0 can be easily updated to bring it in line with new regulations and technology to future-proof the inspection process in the years to come and brings significant changes to how tankers of all sizes are assessed by inspectors.
“During trial inspections to date, all parties have been working cooperatively together throughout the process, which has been helpful in identifying any potential improvement actions. This is precisely why we decided to implement a phased roll-out strategy – with this four-phased approach all parties are given the opportunity to test and interrogate the regime and provide feedback if they wish to before SIRE 2.0 becomes the new standard for tanker vetting at Phase 4,” said Cooper.
The Vessel Inspection Project (VIP) team and OCIMF Secretariat urge all programme users to make use of all of the training and guidance material available through the OCIMF website.
Maersk secures green methanol for maiden voyage of the world’s first methanol-enabled container vessel
A.P. Moller - Maersk (Maersk) has successfully secured green methanol for the maiden voyage of the world’s first methanol-enabled container vessel. Achieving this green fuel milestone is a significant step for the company and the industry’s efforts to reduce greenhouse gas emissions.
Maersk has signed a deal with Dutch producer OCI Global on the delivery of green1 bio-methanol for the maiden journey. The 21,500 km trip from Ulsan, South Korea to Copenhagen, Denmark -- more than halfway around the globe – will provide real operational experience for Maersk seafarers handling the new engines and using methanol as fuel, as the company prepares to receive a fleet of new, large ocean-going methanol-enabled ships from 2024.
“The green methanol market is still in its infancy and frankly we had not expected to be able to secure a maiden voyage on green methanol for this vessel,” says Morten Bo Christiansen, Head of Energy Transition, A.P. Moller – Maersk. “So, we are very proud to have achieved this significant milestone. We expect a diverse green fuel mix for the future, with green bio-methanol from biomass waste being available now.”
OCI produces its green methanol at a US-based facility by using captured biogas from decomposing organic waste in landfills. The biogas is upgraded to biomethane and injected into the gas grid and the methanol is produced from the biomethane in the grid on a mass-balance basis. This way, green methanol can be produced in existing facilities using existing infrastructure and plants enabling a quick production. The method can contribute to a greener gas grid while capturing harmful methane emissions that would arise from the waste feedstock if left untouched. OCI’s green methanol is certified by International Sustainability & Carbon Certification (ISCC) in accordance with the EU Renewable Energy Directive.
To meet the ambitious 2040 target of net zero greenhouse gas emissions in time, A.P. Moller - Maersk aims to transport a minimum of 25% of Ocean cargo using green fuels by 2030, compared to a 2020 baseline. The 2,100 TEU landmark methanol-enabled feeder vessel is an important step toward the long-term objective of gradually renewing the entire fleet to operate solely on green fuels.
ABS SMART AIP awarded to SHI Structural Health Monitoring System
The Samsung Heavy Industries (SHI) Hull Stress Monitoring System (HSMS) has received the ABS SMART Tier 2 approval in principle (AIP) for structural health monitoring (SHM).
Recognized with a certificate presentation at Nor-Shipping 2023, the SMART (SHM) Tier 2 AIP is part of a larger joint development project (JDP) between SHI and ABS that aims to enhance hull safety with smart ship technology.
The AIP verifies that the design is feasible for the intended application and, in principle, complies with the ABS SMART (SHM) Tier 2 requirements that include vessel-specific loads and operations monitoring, enhanced with periodic updates on structural conditions and physics-based analysis for a holistic structural health assessment and prediction. Upon final approval, vessels on which SHI’s HSMS system is installed will be eligible to receive the ABS SMART (SHM) optional class notation with vessel records: Global Hull (Tier 2).
The HSMS software will be integrated into SHI’s proprietary SVESSEL Smart Platform, designed to expedite the transition from analog-based conventional ship systems into a digital-based lifecycle vessel management approach.
“Smart functions like SHI’s HSMS allow for enhanced health and condition awareness, operational optimization and, eventually, classification supported by condition-based programs. As a leader in supporting the adoption of smart technologies at sea, ABS is proud to work with forward-looking companies such as SHI to continue to develop practical applications for these technologies with a focus on safer operations,” said Patrick Ryan, ABS Senior Vice President and Chief Technology Officer.
“We're very pleased to work with ABS and thankful for the expertise involved to get the SMART (SHM) Tier 2 AIP which is the first milestone in the JDP with ABS. The JDP started to enhance hull safety with smart ship technology on July 2022. Through this joint development, we expect to provide the enhanced hull structural health monitoring and prediction package in the SVESSEL Smart Platform,” said Hyun Joe Kim, SHI Vice President, Autonomous Ship Research Center.
“Collaboration between the shipbuilder and class society is essential to securing hull safety, and we will continue to work together with ABS to reach the SMART (SHM) Tier 3 to incorporate real-time data from hull sensors for enhanced structural health awareness and decision support, as the JDP progresses. The outcome will be the one of the most beneficial solutions to our clients among the solutions of SVESSEL platform in terms of safer operation and management.”
Chartwell and Alicat secure new two-vessel contract to strengthen North Star’s renewable fleet
North Star, specialist vessel operator for offshore infrastructure support, has awarded a new contract to Alicat Workboats Ltd, a leading Great Yarmouth-based shipbuilding firm, for the construction of two new offshore wind daughter craft.
The hybrid-propulsion workboats 5 & 6, designed by Chartwell Marine, a trusted UK pioneer of next-generation vessel design for the offshore wind sector, will be integrated into North Star’s renewable fleet. They will complement the two new best-in-class SPS 120 CSOV’s under construction with Vard.
The latest additions to the fleet bolster the ongoing partnership between North Star and Chartwell, following the procurement of four daughter craft vessels between 2021 and 2024 for four contracted SOV’s. Combining diesel and electric outboard propulsion and efficient hull design, the crafts respond to the demand in the offshore wind support market for low-emissions, high-performance vessels which can thrive in turbulent sea- and weather-states.
Last week, North Star delivered its inaugural service operations vessel (SOV) designed specifically for offshore wind operations and maintenance (O&M) support on Dogger Bank. The first of four SOVs bound for the development, the firm’s distinct design, is powered by hybrid technology and provides wind farm technicians with state-of-the-art, V1:C1 cruise liner standard comfort and accommodation while working in the field for extended periods.
Daughter crafts 5 & 6 will play a critical role in ensuring quick, optimised, and safe operation offshore on the next series of vessels in North Star’s renewables growth, transferring technicians from CSOV to turbine on a regular basis in a challenging offshore environment.
Alicat Workboats Ltd will build the two vessels based on the Chartwell Daughter Craft design specification, offering enhanced flexibility in the field for personnel development and logistics. Continuing the drive for innovation, the designs will integrate the latest green technologies and futureproof for further technological advancements to come, facilitating the seamless integration of low-emission fuels.
Andy Page, Director and Naval Architect at Chartwell Marine, said: “We are thrilled to collaborate once again with North Star and Alicat, and excited to be able to apply our expertise on such a monumental offshore wind project — not just in the UK, but globally. The next-generation technologies and design philosophy of daughter craft 5 & 6 further solidify our shared vision for a green future in the maritime industry.
“With the workboats playing a pivotal role in the further offshore sites serviced by North Star’s Walk-2-Work fleet, providing a safe means of transfer for technicians, these vessels will prove essential in maintaining the momentum of the project’s progression.”
Andrew Duncan, Renewables Director at North Star, commented: “Through our close collaborations with Chartwell and Alicat, we’ve witnessed their remarkable expertise and craftsmanship first-hand, so they were the natural choice for our next sequence of daughter crafts. Their impressive track record has instilled in us the utmost confidence that they can reliably deliver on time in the fields of design and construction, helping us continue to provide essential services offshore.
“This partnership enables three UK-based companies to create value within the domestic supply chain. With North Star’s steadfast support for the local content, the project serves as a catalyst to bolster the growth of British shipbuilding and further expand the offshore wind industry.”
Industry Experts to gather for SURV11 Conference
Next week, maritime professionals will gather for the Royal Institution of Naval Architects (RINA) 11th instalment of the Surveillance, Search and Rescue Craft (SURV) Conference. The event will take place at the Wereldmuseum, Rotterdam, the Netherlands on 21-22 June.
After the conference, on Friday 23 June, there will be an opportunity to visit Damen Shipyard Gorinchem and its Lighthouse innovation space. Only a limited number of seats will be available for SURV11 attendees.
“We are thrilled to invite delegates to attend our SURV 11 Conference as well as provide an opportunity to bring them to the newest Damen facility,” says RINA Operations Director, Dmitriy Ponkratov. “We have recently announced the preliminary programme, with two keynote speakers, and we are delighted to share that this conference will be a fantastic networking opportunity and a place for the industry experts to exchange knowledge and ideas.”
SURV11 is the latest iteration of a biennial event that brings together industry experts and professionals. It aims to promote and share technical knowledge on industry best practices. The conference will cover a range of topics, including analyses of designs, applications, and operations of new vessels in this segment, as well as a review of existing vessels and their use across all marine environments.
The conference will feature technical sessions, panel discussions, as well as two keynote presentations from leading experts in the field, including Wim Boerma, Product Manager High Speed Craft, Damen Shipyards and Magnus Wikander, Head of Strategic Development Maritime Hydrodynamics, RISE (Research Institutes of Sweden). Attendees will have the opportunity to network with fellow professionals and engage in debate on the latest trends, technologies and challenges facing the industry.
RNLI’s Principal Naval Architect Holly Phillips says: ‘With now only a few days away, we would like to encourage people to register for this event which is a great opportunity to hear about some of the technical developments in the area of maritime search and rescue and to network with others working in this field.’’
As a partner of the SURV 11 Conference, Damen recognizes the importance of bringing industry experts together to share knowledge and ideas. Joining the SURV 11 Conference enables you to network with industry leaders, gain cutting-edge insights, explore future opportunities, and contribute to shaping the future of the maritime sector," Wim Boerma, Product Manager High Speed Craft at Damen.
The SURV11 Conference is open to all interested parties, including members of RINA, other professional institutions and the wider maritime industry. Registration for the event is open, and further details, including the preliminary programme, can be found on the RINA website: https://www.rina.org.uk/SURV11_2023.html .
DP World’s SeaRates partners with C P World to digitise global trade logistics for small cargo owners
DP World has announced a new partnership between its SeaRates platform and C P World to help digitise global trade and provide more choice for smaller cargo owners and freight forwarders operating around the world.
The integration means customers moving less than a full container load will benefit from streamlined logistics processes, real-time information, and enhanced efficiency from SeaRates, just like their bigger counterparts.
Based in Singapore, C P World operates globally, providing seamless logistics services with air, ocean, and land transportation, as well as documentation and customs clearance for customers. As a neutral cargo consolidator, it specialises in logistics for small and medium sized businesses that may not require an entire container for their cargos.
With this integration, SeaRates will now provide customers with enhanced real-time container availability and pricing information, empowering shippers to compare rates across a broader range of carriers.
By optimising container space and efficiently consolidating Less than Container Load (LCL) shipments, SeaRates enables cost savings for shippers while contributing to a more sustainable global supply chain. These advancements further establish SeaRates' position as a leading logistics solution provider catering to businesses of all sizes.
Mike Bhaskaran (pictured, left), COO of Digital Technology at DP World said: “As a leader in supply chain logistics and technology, we are excited to expand our offerings for SMEs, startups and individuals who require access to international trade. This new partnership will provide SeaRates customers with access to exclusive ocean freights and schedules in over 30 countries, allowing them to book LCL shipments through the online platform. This is particularly advantageous for customers with seasonal or promotional products, as it will provide them with cost savings and more flexibility in their bookings, while tapping into new market segments and broadening customer bases.”
Ken Chiang (pictured, right), Group CEO of C P World said: “As a neutral, market leading ocean freight consolidator, C P World is excited to partner with SeaRates, DP World to offer comprehensive LCL ocean freight rates, schedules and services thereby digitalising freight and creating sustainable solutions.”
TMS group partners with Orca AI to automate navigation and enhance fleet safety
Automated situational awareness platform develop Orca AI has partnered with TMS group to enhance the safety of the Greece-based carrier’s fleet. The Orca AI platform has been rolled out across TMS Cardiff Gas’s fleet of 11 LNG Carriers from its 2020-2021 newbuild programme, and nine oil tankers from the TMS Tankers fleet.
TMS group was looking for a solution to enhance its crews’ situational awareness capabilities, with a focus on navigation in congested areas and in low visibility conditions. It also wanted to improve compliance with its safety policy (SMS) and develop further understanding of the navigational challenges that the fleet is facing and how they are managed.
The partnership began in June 2021 and since installation, the TMS Cardiff Gas fleet has reduced the number of its close encounter events by 25% and increased the average minimum distance from other vessels by 19%.
These figures come as the industry faces an increasing number of safety challenges, with AGCS research showing that 75% to 96% of marine accidents involve human error.
By leveraging Orca AI’s automated watchkeeper, TMS crews will gain enhanced situational awareness as well as optimize fleet performance under high-risk navigational scenarios. The Orca AI platform will connect TMS’s vessels and shore-side operations, enabling fleet management teams to receive actionable insights on vessel performance, identify navigation trends that pose a risk and take preventative actions to make fleet operations more efficient and decrease down-time, whilst guaranteeing timely arrivals.
Mr Kourelis George, General Manager of TMS Tankers commented: “As a tanker company, we strive for the highest level of safety. To achieve this goal, we are excited to partner with Orca AI because it enables us minimize our safety risks and avoid potential environmental damage. According to a recent internal survey, more than 90% of our crew finds the Orca AI to be a very user-friendly and useful navigation aid.”
Mr Alexandros Politis-Kalenteris, Deputy COO of TMS Cardiff Gas added: “Orca AI helps us to take our zero incidents and damage to environment approach to the next level. Our crew members are now able to make better navigational decisions in real-time which reduces the probability of having a safety event. At the same time, our management has greater visibility and understanding of how our vessels operate in high-risk situations and we are able to turn those insights into preventative actions.”
Mr Yarden Gross, CEO and Co-Founder of Orca AI concluded: “We’re delighted to partner with TMS Tankers and TMS Cardiff Gas to improve their safety performance and are honoured to be part of their journey to be a central player in the shipping industry’s ongoing digital revolution.”
Norton Rose Fulbright advises on first-of-its-kind parallel restructuring
Global law firm Norton Rose Fulbright has advised a committee of secured creditors on the first-of-its-kind restructuring of international shipping company Vroon, which completed on 12 June 2023.
This was the first restructuring to be carried out using a parallel English scheme of arrangement and Dutch WHOA plan.
This restructuring involved certain lenders receiving participations in a new syndicated secured facility, while other lenders had their facilities amended as well as a debt-for-equity swap.
Vroon operates and manages a fleet of over 100 vessels and is headquartered in the Netherlands. Norton Rose Fulbright has been advising the lenders on their circa $900 million of exposure for a number of years.
The team was led by Partners James Stonebridge, Omar Salah and Richard Howley. A separate team acted for GLAS as agent and was led by Partners Kirstin Russell and Yke Lennartz. The team was supported by over 120 lawyers from London, Newcastle, Paris, Amsterdam, Luxembourg, New York, Canada, Singapore, Thailand and Italy, and involved teams from restructuring, shipping, corporate, disputes, pensions, antitrust and competition, and tax.
James Stonebridge, who led from London, commented: “We are delighted this restructuring has now come to a successful conclusion. This was a fascinating and complex deal to work on, and again highlights our market leading practice in shipping restructuring assignments.”
Omar Salah, who led from Amsterdam, commented: “It has been a privilege to work on the first-ever Dutch WHOA proceeding with a parallel English scheme of arrangement. This matter showcases that we are at the forefront of ground-breaking global restructurings. We are grateful to our clients for entrusting us with their most complex cross-border restructurings.”
VIKAND co-sponsors US Coast Guard’s AMVER Awards during Nor-Shipping
Global Healthcare specialist VIKAND co-sponsored the annual Automated Mutual Assistance Vessel Rescue System (AMVER) awards during last week’s Nor-Shipping event.
Developed by the US Coast Guard with support from commercial shipping representatives, AMVER awards are given when ships have made themselves available for search and rescue operations for at least 128 days in the previous calendar year. In 2022, 242 Norwegian ships representing 31 Norwegian management companies earned AMVER awards.
This year the awards ceremony was hosted by the Deputy Chief of Mission of the Embassy of the United States of America, MS Sharon Hudson-Dean, and the event was sponsored by VIKAND and ABS together with U.S. Commercial Services.
US special climate envoy John Kerry spoke about the need of business leaders to work together to create a more sustainable future by collaborating on decarbonisation projects to reduce the adverse effects of climate change.
During his speech Managing Director of OneHealth by VIKAND, Ronald Spithout, cited John Kerry’s keynote speech at Nor-Shipping where the US envoy compared the fight against climate change to D-Day.
Ronald told the audience that crew welfare is facing its own D-Day and ship operators must act now to ensure their seafarers are as healthy as possible to future proof shipping. He said that if the audience only remembered three words from his speech then these should be ‘crew asset management’.
In other words we should be treating crew like precious assets by looking after them in a proactive way to lessen expensive medical emergencies.
OneHealth by VIKAND does just that as it is an all-inclusive approach to onboard health and wellness through policies, services and solutions that promote better onboard physical and mental health.
The aim of OneHealth is to change the perception of healthcare in the maritime industry from viewing it as a cost to viewing healthcare as a value driver and an integral part of ‘Social Investment in Shipping’, addressing not only the obvious physical and mental aspects of wellbeing on board, but also the direct positive impact on important KPI’s as Safety, Preservation of Experience and Risk management.
Following his speech Mr Spithout received very positive reactions from captains in the audience who agreed with this approach as many feel that having the support of medical professionals to help them manage day to day crew health and wellness is a much better option than waiting until a situation turns into a medical emergency before reaching out for help as many of these situations do not need to get that point if managed properly from day one.
People, Technology, Sustainability and Partnership at heart of Columbia Group launch
Today marks the launch of the Columbia Group, an exciting milestone in its journey to create a stronger, more integrated organisation that embodies its core values and which will propel it towards future success.
The Columbia Group is the culmination of the collective strength and expertise of its Group companies and, together, will provide the full spectrum of integrated maritime, logistics, leisure and energy services, delivering exceptional value to its customers and stakeholders.
The move will not only consolidate Columbia Group’s market strength but will signal a commitment to an exciting future. The integration will unlock numerous benefits for all employees and seafarers, enabling enhanced collaboration, knowledge sharing, and career growth opportunities across its global network.
A new Columbia Group logo has also been developed with the design representing the three levels of the Columbia Group ecosystem: Management, Group Companies and Preferred Partners. The logo embodies the Group’s growth through open communication and transparency, empowering businesses to grow sustainably while unlocking opportunities through diversity and inclusion at an operational level.
At the heart of the Columbia Group lie three pillars which will drive progress and shape its future: People powered by Technology, Sustainability, and Partnerships/Joint Ventures.
“This is an exciting time for us,” said Mark O’Neil, President and CEO of the Columbia Group.
“People, both ashore and onboard, are our greatest asset. As we embark on this journey, we remain committed to empowering our employees through continuous learning, leadership development, and collaboration. Our focus on technology will enable us to harness innovation, streamline processes, and deliver exceptional experiences to our clients. By leveraging cutting-edge tools and digital solutions, we will enhance efficiency, boost productivity, and stay ahead of the curve in a rapidly evolving industry,” he said.
Sustainability is deeply ingrained in the DNA of Columbia’s organisation as it recognises its responsibility to protect the environment and contribute to the well-being of the communities in which it operates. The Columbia Group will continue to prioritise sustainable practices, integrating environmental, social, and governance considerations into its decision-making processes.
Mr. O’Neil added: “Strategic partnerships and joint ventures have been instrumental in our growth and success and Columbia will further amplify its impact by fostering collaborations with like-minded organisations that share its values and vision. These partnerships will unlock new opportunities, expand our global reach, and enhance our collective capabilities.”
The creation of the integrated maritime services platform will further enable the Columbia Group to deliver exceptional value to its clients.
[caption id="attachment_54085" align="alignnone" width="373"]
Mark O’Neil, President and CEO of the Columbia Group[/caption]
UAB-Online platform updated to include latest chemical tanker safety guidelines
UAB-Online, the leading digital platform in liquid bulk shipping, now offers functionality that complies with the industry’s latest tanker safety guidelines for chemical tankers, with the goal of helping to improve safety and efficiency.
Key safety issues from the International Chamber of Shipping’s Tanker Safety Guide 5th edition that the UAB-Online platform now facilitates include guidelines on enclosed space entry, risk assessments, and PPE, and improved ship/shore safety checklists, to help ship and terminal crew complete important safety checks efficiently. UAB-Online is also aligned with ISGOTT6: International Safety Guide for Oil Tankers and Terminals, Sixth Edition.
“We are committed to helping chemical tankers, terminal operators, and anyone involved in the carriage of chemicals on ships, in their efforts to streamline operations while following all safety guidelines,” says Hans Bobeldijk, CEO of UAB-Online.
This new addition to the UAB-Online platform expands compatibility and improves overall compliance with the latest safety guidelines by enabling a digital way of working. The new digital workflow is more efficient and faster, both on the agent, ship, and shore side, and gives chemical facilities an additional opportunity to be compliant with the new safety guidelines and with ISGOTT6.
Founded in 2010, UAB-Online is a platform to optimise liquid bulk operations. It is dedicated to supporting safe, efficient, and sustainable inland and sea shipping worldwide. The UAB-Online solution is adaptable to the wishes of the specific user, which provides direct benefits in terms of efficiency and safety, and indirectly benefits the entire chain, while also guaranteeing compliance with national and international laws and regulations.
For more information about UAB-Online, please visit uab-online.com.
SHIPNEXT and XLP partner to boost digital shipping access
A strategic partnership agreement between freight platform SHIPNEXT and XLProjects Network (XLP) was signed at last week’s Breakbulk Europe in Rotterdam.
Offering instant cargo-to-ship matching on a global basis, SHIPNEXT was conceived in 2015 by Belgium-based shipping and tech entrepreneur Alexander Varvarenko (pictured, right) to help charterers and shipbrokers in dry bulk, breakbulk, project cargo and containerized trades.
XLP is a division of AIN Group Pte Ltd., which has been operating successful global logistics networks since 2003. Today, XLP serves as a platform for the world's top independent project logistics companies and is operated by a multilingual management team in Bangkok, Thailand.
Signed by SHIPNEXT founder and CEO Alexander Varvarenko and XLP directors Gary Dale Cearley (pictured, left) and Daniel Bateman, the new agreement allows XLP members to reap the benefits of digital shipping by providing them with free access to the full SHIPNEXT system for a year. XLP members will have access to features such as the Trading Desk, Cargo and Fleet Monitor, Port Information, Freight Calculator, and more.
SHIPNEXT holds a patent for its innovative system that combines email processing, powered by natural language processing, machine learning, and AI, with an all-inclusive A-to-Z shipping platform. This integration enables instant freight search, freight tendering, trade facilitation and workflow automation.
Making use of smart tags and an algorithm that is constantly learning, the system provides an effective solution to the problem of information overload, caused by the unmanageable quantity of email that is a typical feature of the traditional shipping business.
SHIPNEXT CEO and founder Alexander Varvarenko said: “SHIPNEXT offers the most comprehensive and advanced tech solutions that free our users from the problem of data overload. We are delighted to offer our service to XLP members, who can look forward to working smarter and more efficiently with SHIPNEXT.”
Protected-Seas and EMH Systems announce partnership to bolster marine conservation efforts
EMH Systems Ltd., specializing in environmental vessel navigation, has unveiled a strategic alliance with Protected-Seas, the leading curator of a comprehensive global database on marine protected areas. This partnership is described as harnessing the power of synergy and innovation to reshape the commercial shipping industry by providing unmatched environmental protection solutions through shared data and insights.
"We are excited about this partnership with Protected-Seas," said Christopher Nagy, Co-Founder at EMH Systems Ltd. "Working together enables us to maximize our collective expertise and data, catalyzing positive change within the commercial shipping industry. As the industry expands, it's crucial that conservation efforts keep pace. Our combined efforts present us with a unique opportunity to ensure this happens."
Renowned for developing cutting-edge solutions to environmental challenges within the maritime domain, EMH Systems Ltd. equips maritime operators with state-of-the-art tools and services. These enable operators to mitigate environmental impact, enhance efficiency, and comply with stringent regulations.
"Virgil Zetterlind, Director of Protected-Sea, said: “Compliance starts with understanding. Accessing the where and what of ocean regulations can be challenging on the water and we hope through this partnership with EMH we can help commercial shipping stay aware of the rules that apply and maximize compliance so that everyone can benefit from a healthy ocean. “
Protected-Seas, celebrated for its exhaustive database on marine protected areas, provides an indispensable resource. Their proficiency in tracking and overseeing protected zones enables maritime operators to navigate responsibly, particularly in ecologically sensitive areas.
China Classification Society and NAPA introduce new joint interface to streamline 3D ship design approval process
Maritime software, services, and data analysis provider NAPA and China Classification Society (CCS) have introduced a new joint interface between NAPA Steel and CCS’s COMPASS-SDP to streamline the data exchange process between designers, engineers and class societies. Through the use of 3D models created in NAPA Steel, the move optimizes the design and rule check process, saving time and resources, while making class approval more efficient.
NAPA is the first ship design CAD solution to offer an interface for COMPASS-SDP. The integration will allow 3D structural models created in NAPA Steel to be exported to a data format for 2D hull structure models - ‘SSD-2D’ - which can then be easily imported and processed on COMPASS SDP for further rule calculations.
This integrated process will reduce the modelling time on COMPASS-SDP and improve ship design quality through closer collaboration between teams. More streamlined communication directly on 3D models allows approval engineers to cross-check sections more easily and shorten the approval time. This will enable safer and higher quality ship designs for the industry.
Mikko Kuosa, Chief Executive Officer, NAPA, said: “The need of the hour across maritime is for greater collaboration for safer and greener ships of the future. Re-shaping the traditional dynamics between engineers, designers and classification societies, and enhancing co-operation, NAPA is proud to be driving change across the industry through the use of 3D models.
"As the industry’s digital capabilities grow, this project with CCS is an important step towards accelerating the adoption of 3D model-based approval and furthering our commitment to a more agile and collaborative process between all parties.”
Zhao Yan, Vice President, CCS, said: “At CCS, we are committed to supporting a more swift and intelligent design and approval process by making class approval as simple as possible. Today’s announcement to introduce a new interface between NAPA Steel and our COMPASS-SDP will help make this a reality by delivering a more integrated and streamlined process with minimal risk of error and time consumption. We are proud to be leading this change and helping future-proof the industry.”
As part of the project's first phase, the interface will cover longitudinal structure members as well as geometries and scantling information such as plate thickness, material, and stiffener profiles. This is in addition to other ship data relevant to rule calculation such as frame system, principal particulars, hull girder loads, and compartment data.
Kongsberg to supply Penguin Shipyard with waterjets for two fast ferries
Kongsberg Maritime (KONGSBERG) has won the contract to supply its Kamewa waterjets for two fast ferries to be built by Singapore's Penguin Shipyard for a Middle East client. Each of the new 56-metre Ropax ferries will be equipped with four Kongsberg Kamewa 71 S-4 waterjets and control systems.
Designed by Incat Crowther UK, the ferries will have a capacity of 250 passengers and 25 cars. The 71 S-4s are from the Kongsberg Kamewa Steel series of waterjets, with a maximum power of 3600kW each.
The ferries were ordered by Abu Dhabi Ports Group and will replace two older ferries that connect the UAE mainland and Dalma Island, which is 42 kilometres offshore.
“Penguin Shipyard is a very important customer for Kongsberg, and this order gives us the opportunity to strengthen our new relationship,” said Jay Chia, Sales Director Waterjets, Asia Pacific, Kongsberg Maritime. “This order also shows our strength and capability in the fast ferry market, which is a key segment for Kongsberg Kamewa Waterjets.”
Commenting on the collaboration, Penguin International Limited's Managing Director James Tham said: "Kongsberg was our logical choice for this project. They supported us from the pre-tender stage all the way to contract award."
This new contract follows directly from the first contract signed last year between Kongsberg Maritime and Penguin Shipyard for the supply of a series of S56-3/CA Kamewa steel waterjets for two patrol boats for Nigeria Customs.
Cost of regulatory compliance ‘lower with LNG’
Analysis from SEA-LNG, the coalition established to demonstrate the commercial and environmental benefits of the LNG pathway, shows the lifetime fuel costs of meeting key European decarbonisation targets for shipping through the LNG pathway are expected to be roughly half that of the methanol or ammonia pathways.
Building on recent work by the Mærsk Mc-Kinney Møller Center for Zero Carbon Shipping (MMMCZCS) projecting fuel costs for alternative marine fuels out to 2050 and using long-term price benchmarks for ammonia, methanol and LNG as a marine fuel, SEA-LNG has calculated the cost of compliance with FuelEU Maritime regulations for a typical 14k TEU newbuild container vessel coming into operation in 2025.
FuelEU Maritime requires vessels to reduce the intensity of greenhouse gases produced by their energy consumption in coming years against a benchmark of the fleetwide average in 2020.
Grey versions of ammonia and methanol start at a significant disadvantage to LNG.
The additional greenhouse gas emissions involved in producing ammonia and methanol from natural gas means that respectively these grey fuels emit 47% and 14% more GHG emissions than VLSFO on a well-to-wake basis. Fossil, or grey LNG, offers up to 23% immediate GHG emission reductions compared to VLSFO on a well-to-wake lifecycle basis.
What this means is that owners opting for LNG-fuelled vessels will be able to meet the reduction targets until 2039 without needing to blend their fuel with low-carbon bio-LNG or renewable synthetic e-LNG. By contrast, owners of methanol and ammonia fuelled vessels will need to include significant proportions of a green fuel immediately to meet the regulations, vastly inflating their fuel bills.
Assuming an average fuel burn for the typical 14k TEU newbuild container vessel of 146 tonnes of VLSFO equivalent per day (as per Figure 2 above), a methanol-powered vessel would require a 14% green fuel blend to comply with FuelEU Maritime in 2025 at a fuel cost of almost USD55m per year, assuming the use of biomethanol. An ammonia powered vessel, if such a thing existed, would require a 33% green fuel blend to comply and face a fuel bill of about USD80m per year if using e-ammonia. LNG by contrast would require no blending with a fuel bill of just over USD20m per year.
By 2040, LNG would require a 14% green fuel blend and annual fuel costs are expected to reach around USD25m, assuming the use of bio-LNG. Methanol’s green fuel blend requirement, will have increased to 40%, resulting in an annual fuel bill of just over USD 55m, assuming the use of biomethanol - the effects of the increased volume of biomethanol required offset by the falling costs of the green fuel. For ammonia the blend ratio will have increased to 53% with a blended fuel cost of approximately USD70m – the effects of the increased volume of e-ammonia required more than offset by the falling costs of the e-fuel.
By 2050, SEA-LNG analysis shows that all three fuel options will have significant blends of green fuels in the form of bio- and e-fuels and we expect to see a convergence in overall fuel costs.
In summary, this simple analysis shows that the LNG pathway to compliance with FuelEU Maritime offers massively lower fuel costs than both the methanol and ammonia pathways, particularly in the first 15 years’ of the vessel’s life – a period critical for vessel financing decisions. The methanol pathway is approximately 2.5 times more expensive and the ammonia pathway 3.5 times more expensive.
Similar analysis can be undertaken for other sectors and while the absolute numbers will be different the cost ratios for the different pathways will be similar.
Commenting on the analysis, SEA-LNG COO Steve Esau said: “Our analysis shows that lifetime fuel costs of achieving net-zero emissions through the LNG pathway are expected to be roughly half that of those for methanol and ammonia. This underlines the importance of understanding the implications of the journey to net zero as well as the destination. LNG offers GHG reductions today and a low cost, incremental solution for decarbonisation.”
SEA-LNG is currently developing a cost of compliance calculator that will enable ship owners, investors, charterers, and operators to explore the commercial implications of different fuel choices in complying with EU and IMO regulations.
Safer pilot transfers still needed according to The BMA
Despite the success of the Concentrated Inspection Campaign (CIC) for pilot transfer arrangements instigated by The Bahamas Maritime Authority (BMA) in 2021, the recent tragic death of a marine pilot in the Humber Estuary highlights that there is still more to be done.
Capt. Kapila Malawwethanthri MNI (pictured), Technical and Compliance Officer at The BMA, said: “These accidents simply shouldn’t be happening today. We implemented this CIC having noticed a consistent level of non-compliant pilot boarding arrangements across the industry and related deaths, as demonstrated in the International Maritime Pilots’ Association (IMPA) Safety Campaign. We introduced a range of steps to improve safety, including the expansion of our Safety Alert 2021-01, to highlight common defects and why they are non-compliant.”
One of the major drawbacks identified through the CIC was the lack of ladder testing standards in the International Convention for the Safety of Life at Sea (SOLAS). While the organisation makes recommendations on how to maintain pilot ladders, there are no explanations regarding how and when to test them beyond that they ‘shall be regularly inspected to ensure they are safe to use’. In fact, the most important reference relating to the construction of pilot ladders is given in a footnote.
To address the lack of direct advice, The BMA has issued an information notice, IN018, regarding pilot boarding arrangements which specifies how testing procedures should be managed. This can be found on The BMA website.
Capt. Malawwethanthri concludes: “Many masters, ship managers and some of the recognised organisations have only limited knowledge about the ladder testing requirement or access to the ISO standard. Ideally, we would like to see all management companies replacing pilot ladders after 30 months of use but, at the very least, it is vital that all concerned parties take note of the standard, know how to test for adherence, and most importantly, that steps are put in place to ensure the testing takes place and proof of compliance provided.
“We hope that the information in our IN018 will help to improve safety for pilots during the transfer process.”
New Chairman as Swedish Club focuses on the future
The Swedish Club has announced the appointment of a new Chairman to the Club’s Board of Directors. Peter Claesson (pictured), Finance Director at Stena AB will replace Lennart Simonsson, who is stepping down from the Board having served the Club as Chairman for 16 years.
The announcement was made at The Swedish Club’s 151st Annual General Meeting (AGM), Thomas Nordberg’s first as Managing Director of the Club. Thomas thanked Lennart for his 25 years of service on the Board and offered his best wishes for the future.
Thomas Nordberg’s AGM address also brought good news for members, as he told the audience that in the first quarter of 2023 the Club’s Combined Ratio stood at 101% and positive investment returns brought in a financial result of 10.9 million USD, a positive trend that is continuing.
During the AGM Nordberg focused on the future, introducing the Club’s new Management Team line-up and sharing further details of the strengthened Regional Office structure. He emphasised the importance of focusing on IT and digital transformation and provided insight into the Club’s recent Risk Management review.
Speaking about his priorities, Thomas Nordberg said: “We are operating in a fast-moving environment, which is facing challenges unlike those seen before. The last few years have shown a pattern of geopolitical uncertainties and volatile investment results which demands that the whole industry model be reassessed. Here at The Swedish Club, we need to focus on future-proofing to protect and further build upon our heritage for the benefit of our membership.
“People are our priority. That means a continued focus on working closely with our members, brokers and business partners to best understand how to add value to our relationship; and it also means ensuring that we foster effective leadership and talent within our team,” he said.
The Swedish Club welcomed two new members to the Board: Ragnar Johansson, Managing Director of Wallenius SOL AB, and Xiao Junguang, Secretary to the board of directors and general legal counsel of COSCO Shipping Lines Co. Ltd. With very different maritime backgrounds - one operations, one finance/legal - these two appointments will contribute further breadth and depth of experience to The Swedish Club’s Board.
IMO Secretary-General statement on the migrant shipwreck off Greek coast
Following the sinking of a heavily loaded boat carrying migrants off the coast of Greece this week, International Maritime Organization (IMO) Secretary-General Kitack Lim has issued a statement saying:
"I am profoundly saddened by the reports of the tragic loss of life off the coast of Greece, after a boat carrying hundreds of people reportedly capsized and sank. It is a sad fact that thousands of people undertake dangerous sea crossings in unsafe vessels putting their lives in the hands of unscrupulous operators – who have little regard for mandatory regulations such as the International Convention for the Safety of Life at Sea (SOLAS) or the International Convention on Maritime Search and Rescue (SAR).
“I commend the efforts of the Greek authorities and the teams involved in the search and rescue operation, saving many lives. It is important for us to recognize the commendable efforts of the coast guards, navies, search and rescue agencies and other vessels that continue to rescue those in distress at sea, acting in the best spirit and tradition of seafaring.
“Every life lost at sea is one too many. IMO will continue to work with others in the United Nations system, like the Inter-Agency Group on the protection of refugees and migrants moving by sea, to address the complexities of this humanitarian issue and the unsafe practices associated with the transport of migrants by sea.
“I wish to offer my deepest condolences to all those impacted by this latest tragedy."
W&O Supply appoints Michael Hume as President
W&O Supply - a leading supplier of valves, actuation, pipe, fittings and engineered solutions to the global maritime industry - has announced the appointment of Michael Hume (pictured) as President.
Hume will replace Todd Nestel, who is leaving the business after four years in the role. Nestel joined W&O in 2012 and played an instrumental role in accelerating the organisation’s evolution from a reliable supplier to a provider of complete technical solutions.
Hume returns to the business having originally joined W&O Supply in 1991 as branch manager in Long Beach, California, rising to the position of regional manager and business development manager, which ultimately led to his appointment as President and CEO in 2011.
Thanking Todd Nestel for his leadership at W&O, Brad Bergeron, CEO at PVI Holdings, comments: “Todd brought success to W&O with a strong business acumen that helped grow and develop key relationships with our customers and OEMs. Todd’s personal touch aligned with our culture made W&O an incredible place to work. We will miss his leadership and thank him for his contribution to W&O’s success.”
Bergeron continued: “We are pleased to welcome Michael back to W&O. Michael brings enthusiasm and an entrepreneurial spirit to his leadership, which, combined with his expertise in the maritime industry, will drive W&O to build on its recent success.”
Commenting on his appointment, Michael Hume said: “I am extremely pleased to re-join W&O after my time away and look forward to building on Todd’s excellent work. As we continue our evolution from a reliable supplier of pipes, valves and fittings to a provider of complete technical solutions to the maritime industry, I am excited to work alongside our customers and OEMs to deliver excellent value and continue with our industry-leading success.”
New order from leading French owner shows growing popularity of Strategic Marine’s StratCat 27 Crew Transfer Vessel
Strategic Marine's StratCat 27 (SC27) Crew Transfer Vessels (CTVs) with hybrid-ready capabilities are winning increasing recognition, as more orders roll in from European customers, including the latest order from leading France-based LD Tide.
The joint venture between top French shipping company Louis Dreyfus Armateurs (LDA) and UK-based partner Tidal Transit, has ordered a hybrid-ready SC27 from the leading aluminium boat builder to add to its fleet of vessels servicing offshore wind farms in France.
In line with its renewables development strategy, the LDA Group is anticipating the growing needs of the offshore wind sector, and expects many more new projects to come online in France in future.
LD Tide currently owns and manages a fleet of three CTVs to transfer technicians to the Saint-Nazaire offshore wind farm, about 20nm off the coast of France.
The 480MW wind farm project is owned by EDF Renewables, Enbridge and CPP Investments and started operations at the end of 2022.
The SC27 order is the first the company has placed for a vessel to be built at a non-French yard and shows the confidence the growing offshore wind player has in Strategic Marine.
Designed by trusted partner BMT, the SC27 is well-suited to meet the needs of the rapidly developing offshore renewables sector and its build-to-stock programme gives it an advantage in meeting tight delivery schedules.
Mr Edouard Louis-Dreyfus, President of Louis Dreyfus Armateurs says: "We are excited to be working with Strategic Marine on this new project and are confident the new vessel will contribute to our fleet operations as we position ourselves as a key player of the French offshore wind industry."
The SC27 design was launched in May 2021 and has already seen wide interest from the offshore wind industry, where solid operational capabilities and a reduced environmental footprint are key requirements.
Strategic Marine’s CEO, Mr Chan Eng Yew says: “We are delighted to win this order from LD Tide to help expand its fleet to serve the growing French offshore wind sector."
"The confidence shown in ordering our new design demonstrates growing awareness of Strategic Marine’s capabilities and our reputation for timely delivery of reliable, high-quality vessels designed to meet stringent requirements and for demanding environments."
The 27-metre vessel was designed for optimal operational efficiency across a wide range of loading conditions, with a hull form that maximises waterline length and reduces emissions and fuel consumption. A maximum speed of 26 knots enables operators to transport customers quickly and efficiently.
Accommodations and bridge deck layout have been refined with feedback from vessel operators and customers. Post-Covid, real-world adaptations have been made to reduce the risk of infectious disease on operations, meeting Bureau Veritas biosafety notations.
Meanwhile, cabin design has been optimized for improved comfort and workflow, with ample storage space, comfortable sleeping areas and business class seating for 24 offshore service/industrial personnel and three crew members.
The vessel’s bridge deck layout has been enhanced to give improved visibility from the helm and an ergonomic layout to increase comfort for the bridge crew.
In line with the stringent environmental demands of the market, the vessel also features a Green Passport for ship recycling.
Strategic Marine's recent collaboration with Sea Forrest Power Solutions and Danfoss Power Solutions builds on this increasingly popular design with a retrofittable hybrid power option.
The parallel hybrid system enables a reduction in main engine hours and maintenance, significant reduction in vessel noise and vibration and, depending on the vessel’s operational profile and charging facilities, can cut the vessel’s operational carbon footprint.
In recognition of this, Strategic Marine has specially designed a unique logo that will denote this and other future hybrid-powered vessels in its range.
This latest order is a step forward in Strategic Marine’s Decarbonisation goals across its product range and signifies growing acceptance of its design innovations and increasingly wide range of products geared towards meeting market requirements.
Strategic Marine can also provide service and maintenance, fabrication and engineering, marine logistics services and financial services and solutions for its products – providing a complete turnkey, asset lifecycle solution for its clients.
MSC is committed to improving African supply chains, Soren Toft tells CEO Forum
African governments and businesses are seeking fresh private sector investment to support supply chains as the continent strives for industrialization.
MSC Mediterranean Shipping Company is increasingly standing out as a reliable, long-term investor and partner for growth. MSC’s approach chimes with the calls from government leaders attending the June 2023 Africa CEO Forum in Abidjan, Côte d’Ivoire for support to implement the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA/ZLECAF).
Since agreeing the €5.7 billion acquisition of the business that’s now called AGL (Africa Global Logistics), MSC has already introduced new shipping line port calls for Africa, won an African container terminal concession and set about expanding its warehousing and shipping agencies network on the continent.
Commenting in a conference interview with CNN’s Larry Madowo, MSC CEO Soren Toft cited a new port call at Pointe-Noire, Republic of Congo, and the related new feeder service calling at Matadi in the DRC, as two examples of how MSC is supporting African importers and exporters. The investment in these services will be complemented by MSC subsidiary TiL taking on the container terminal concession at Walvis Bay, Namibia. Meanwhile, the company is boosting rail connections between ports and hinterland markets in West Africa, as well as scoping new office locations in several countries, Soren said at the forum.
“It’s all testament to the commitment and the belief we have in the continued development of Africa,” Soren said, referring to the vision of the Aponte family that started with MSC’s first liner service to Africa in 1971. “We have a long-term mindset. You cannot be committed to Africa if you are just looking at the next quarterly earnings.”
Welcoming AGL into the MSC family was a very important step in MSC’s investment in Africa, quadrupling the number of employees throughout the continent, and adding a range of complementary logistics solutions to those already offered by other MSC businesses.
Soren echoed earlier pledges by MSC to retain all the talented people of AGL in Africa and to allow AGL’s management the necessary autonomy to implement the MSC vision across the continent. He also reiterated that AGL is a terminal operator for the whole market, including other shipping lines, and that MSC expects productivity and efficiency gains from the AGL portfolio of concessions, over the coming years.
Africa is grappling with challenges such as war, food insecurity and climate change. The Africa CEO Forum gathered together a record 2000+ CEOs, politicians and other representatives of business and civil society to meet and discuss these issues, build relationships and make constructive dialogue.
Pressed by Larry Madowo on how MSC will make concrete commitments, Soren responded: “The solution is not so much in what we say, but in what we do. So, it’s in the investments that we make, it’s in the continued renewals of concessions at the ports and the new projects that we have, it’s the fact that we continue to expand on land. That’s the commitment and the contribution that we can give.”
Taking advantage of his second trip to Africa as CEO, Soren also led a delegation comprising MSC, MEDLOG and TiL that visited the CEO of the Port of Abidjan. Soren and representatives of MEDLOG and TiL conveyed an ongoing interest in supporting the growth and development of Abidjan as a maritime and logistics hub. The trip also afforded the chance to see at first hand AGL’s new container terminal (CIT) that was inaugurated in December 2022.
MSC-owned businesses (MSC, MEDLOG, TiL, AGL) now account for about 5,000 jobs in Côte d’Ivoire. The country will rely on its strong links with MSC, and other private sector partners, to ensure the ongoing development of the ports of Abidjan and San Pedro, the hinterland transport connections, including the rail link with Burkina Faso, and the logistics facilities that help African farmers, other exporters and importers to manage their cargo transport needs.
With 50 ocean services, making 123 calls per week at 60 ports, MSC offers a unique network that links Africa and the rest of the world, as well as catalyzing trade between African nations.
“Africa is a very important part of our global business,” Soren said. “It’s not always the easiest place to do business, so you have to be patient, you have to have a long-term perspective. But, it’s very promising, there are lots of opportunities and they are many great people delivering them every single day for us.”
Maersk adds Sohar port call to ‘Shaheen Express’ to strengthen its commitment to Oman
A.P. Moller – Maersk (Maersk) will add a new port call to its ocean shipping service ‘Shaheen Express’ starting on 3rd July 2023. The service will rotate between Jebel Ali, Mundra, Pipavav, Jebel Ali, and Sohar, creating a stable and reliable service for the India-UAE-Oman corridor.
The expanded service will continue addressing the rising demand for customers trading between the Indian and the Gulf markets.
“Oman is an extremely important market for us,” said Christopher Cook, Managing Director, Maersk UAE, Oman and Qatar. “We believe and are fully committed to participating in this market’s growth story.
“In recent times, we have seen an increased demand from our customers. We recently expanded our office footprint based on the feedback from our customers and are now adding the Sohar port call to our Shaheen Express.
The direct service to Oman will improve transit time for some of the inbound corridors, such as from Port Qasim (Pakistan), Port Said (Egypt), Sokhna Port (Egypt), Kolkata Port (India), Jawaharlal Nehru Port (India) and some European ports. Similarly, by directly calling Mundra and Pipavav in India, it would greatly help the chemical and industrial exporters from Oman.
The introduction of Shaheen Express, combined with end-to-end logistics solutions being offered in Oman, will allow Maersk to bring competitiveness to the operations of importers and exporters out of Oman.
Shaheen Express will continue to contribute towards the rising trade between India and UAE as well that has seen a steady rise owing to the India-UAE Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) that entered into force in May 2022. The service will include two vessels with a nominal capacity of 2,800 TEUs.
IEC Telecom unveils a new maritime LEO-based solution in the Philippines
With high-speed, low latency, reliable and cost-effective connectivity, low earth orbit satellites are transforming maritime communications and the Asia Pacific region is set to benefit, says satcom specialist IEC Telecom.
IEC Telecom will showcase the benefits of LEO connectivity to the Philippine maritime sector when it takes part in this week’s PhilMarine show. PhilMarine gathers key national stakeholders and international specialists to exchange ideas, develop partnerships and draw a roadmap towards achieving the nation’s 2028 transport vision, the Maritime Industry Development Plan (MIDP).
Nabil Ben Soussia, Group COO of IEC Telecom, commented: “The MIDP has an ambitious agenda, and to meet its targets will require new policies and regulations, as well as significant technological advancement. Satellite telecommunication has a key role to play here in enabling this development.
“At this fast-moving time it’s important to remember that maritime digitalisation's success depends on carefully considered implementation. Satcom on board is not only about the hardware or network coverage; it’s about a connectivity system that remains operational at all times, enabling business continuity and reliable crew welfare,” he said.
As the world’s leading supplier of ships’ crew, The Philippines is at the heart of the maritime world and keen to embrace the many opportunities offered by the rapidly growing LEO sector. For the crew, this revolution signals opportunities such as faster access to the internet, real-time communication with home, workplace support, and comprehensive e-learning programmes.
While digitalisation is the key to future changes, crews are the change-makers. As new generations join the workforce, access to connectivity has become a ‘must have’ factor. In fact, according to a recent survey by Dell (TrueList, 2023), technology is a deciding factor in as many as 91% of Gen Z job decisions, highlighting satcom’s key role in talent attraction and retention.
Recognising these trends, IEC Telecom is in the Philippines to present its latest LEO/GEO hybrid solution: Xpand Maritime. Powered by Starlink, Xpand supports heavy-consuming business and welfare applications. Should the prime link go down, the system will be automatically switched to an L-band network with a set of optimised applications, supporting digital operations in a low bandwidth environment both for critical operations and crew communication.
Xpand comes with an advanced ICT toolkit, including remote network management, a crew voucher system, and a wide range of value-added services. The whole set-up can be tested, updated or upgraded seamlessly while the vessel continues its course. By optimising the operational cycle onboard, Xpand helps to decrease costs and reduce the vessel’s carbon footprint.
Importantly, Xpand also offers many cyber-security add-ons, from basic cyber shields to fully encrypted communication channels, making it invaluable for special operations at sea too.
“We are delighted to unveil the Xpand portfolio to the Philippines and Asia-Pacific region,” said Mr Ben Soussia. “This smart solution has been designed to harness the benefits of LEO connectivity. These are exciting times for satellite communications and we’re looking forward to working with many sectors of the maritime community to help them progress their digital journey.”
Momentum grows for Clean Energy Marine Hubs with Global Centre for Maritime Decarbonisation joining the initiative
Momentum for the Clean Energy Marine Hubs (CEM Hubs) continues to grow with the Global Centre for Maritime Decarbonisation (GCMD) joining the initiative which aims to advance the production, transport and use of low-carbon fuels by shipping for the entire world to access and use. This collaboration further strengthens the Coalition Partnership between GCMD and the International Chamber of Shipping (ICS), which they signed in April 2022.
Proposed by ICS and the International Association of Ports & Harbors (IAPH), the CEM Hubs initiative is a first-of-its-kind, cross-sectoral public-private platform jointly led by an industry task force of CEOs and energy ministers under the banner of Clean Energy Ministerial (CEM). First presented in September 2022 at the Clean Energy Ministerial in Pittsburgh, the initiative is backed by five countries, the UAE, Canada, Norway, Uruguay and Panama, and is supported by the International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA) in coordination with key global platforms that are working towards increasing the deployment of clean fuels around the world.
GCMD joins the CEM Hubs initiative ahead of its formal launch at the 14th Clean Energy Ministerial to be held in Goa in July 2023. GCMD’s mission to help accelerate the maritime industry’s decarbonisation efforts through its pilots will contribute valuable expertise, data and insights to inform the initiative.
Professor Lynn Loo, CEO of the Global Centre for Maritime Decarbonisation, said: “GCMD has been in discussion with ICS since earlier this year on how we can contribute towards the CEM Hubs initiative. I am proud to have been part of the ICS-led delegation to the IRENA Assembly in January, voicing the role shipping can play to facilitate the greater energy transition. For shipping to access green fuels and to support the global energy transition, infrastructure needs to be established at ports and demand aggregated with other sectors. We hope to contribute to this effort by helping to identify and address technical and operational gaps in the green fuels supply chain, and by sharing learnings from our pilots with this community.”
Esben Poulsson, Chair of the Clean Energy Marine Hubs Task Force, said: “We would like to thank the GCMD and Lynn Loo for the support they are respectively providing of the CEM Hubs initiative. With the formal launch of the initiative just a few short weeks away in July, momentum continues to grow for the CEM Hubs and we are delighted that we have the GCMD joining us in time for this significant moment.
“The goals and missions of the GCMD align with those of the CEM Hubs initiative and add great value to the partnership that is being developed. I am confident that together we are in an even stronger position to move forwards, catalyse the global energy transformation and help to de-risk future investments not just for shipping but the entire world.”
Prasoon Agarwal, Acting Head of Secretariat, Clean Energy Ministerial, said: “We are very much looking forward to the launch of the Clean Energy Marine Hubs initiative this July, during the 14th Clean Energy Ministerial meeting in Goa, India. Since the initial announcement last year, we have received strong support from across the global clean energy community for this global initiative, which aims to engage and enable the maritime sector to accelerate global clean energy transition. As the initiative continues to grow its global visibility and partnerships, we welcome the Global Centre for Maritime Decarbonisation to the initiative ahead of its launch and hopeful to see a strong presence of global maritime community, engaging with the energy community in Goa next month.”
LR awards Type Approval in Principle for SeaARCTOS’ self-contained shipboard emissions monitoring system
Lloyd’s Register (LR) has awarded Type Approval in Principle to SeaARCTOS for its pioneering emissions monitoring technology ARCTOS-1, which monitors carbon dioxide (CO2), methane (CH4) and sulphur dioxide (SO2) exhaust levels with a dedicated sensor attached to a vessel’s exhaust stack.
ARCTOS-1’s accurate, real-time analysis enables ship owners and operators to understand their vessel emissions remotely at any time and can provide confirmation that a vessel has successfully switched fuels and lowered SO2 emissions prior to entering Sulphur Emission Control Areas (SECA).
SeaARCTOS has recently completed over 20,000 hours of real-world testing of the unit, gathering data from the fleets including those of Interlink Maritime and Bernhard Schulte Shipmanagement. ARCTOS-1 is designed to provide much needed transparency on emissions monitoring for owners and charterers and help support compliance with local and regional sulphur regulations.
The technology is easily installed and operates without reliance on the vessel’s power and satellite communications systems, instead generating its own electrical power from exhaust heat recovery.
ARCTOS-1 is provided on a subscription model, requiring no hardware purchase, communications costs or other hidden charges, enabling the data to be collected as needed by owners and operators. Co-ordination with a vessel’s flag state means that inspecting agencies can receive time-stamped and geo-tagged data that demonstrates when and where fuel switching took place.
The Type Approval in Principle signifies all required regulatory testing has been successfully completed following LR’s process of independent design review, sample testing and verification of production controls.
Andy McKeran, Chief Commercial Officer, Lloyd’s Register, said: “LR is pleased to award Type Approval in principle to ARCTOS-1, a pioneering self-reliant emissions monitoring system. Sea Arctos’ technology will provide stakeholders with vital data and analysis of their exhaust emissions, helping ship owners and operators to increase their efficiency whilst shaping their sustainability strategies in line with industry mandated regulations.”
Michael Kougellis, CEO, SeaARCTOS, said: “Accurate verifiable emissions monitoring and data reporting remains a huge challenge for the shipping industry. ARCTOS-1 is the only solution that can reliably collect and transit emissions data to the stakeholders that need it, enabling owners to increase transparency, demonstrate compliance and improve efficiency of vessel inspections.”
Further extension to Maritime UK Solent Awards applications deadline
Maritime UK (MUK) Solent has announced that it is extending the deadline for applications to be made to its annual Awards, giving maritime organisations more time to apply, who now have until 17 July to apply for a chance to impress our panel of esteemed judges and win one of these highly regarded awards.
The MUK Solent Awards is an incredible annual event that celebrates the remarkable achievements from the year and raises the profile of the Solent’s thriving maritime sector.
Stuart Baker, Managing Director for Maritime UK Solent said: "These Awards are all about celebrating and showcasing the excellent people, businesses, and organisations across the Solent region, who make our maritime sector one of the best in the world.
"We are extending the deadline for applications as I’m really keen that everyone is given plenty of opportunity to apply. With this additional time, we hope to reach as many organisations as possible and recognise the contribution so many people make to our region's successful maritime sector.
"The Maritime UK Solent Awards are about celebrating everyone involved, from those very small start-up businesses and apprentices just starting out on their careers, right up to large, established businesses, and individuals who have dedicated their working life to making a positive impact on the Solent's maritime industry. Afterall, it is this diversity of people, approach, and organisation that makes our sector great!"
With wide ranging categories from Start-up of the Year and Apprentice of the Year to awards focused on international businesses, innovation, and clean maritime, these awards really cover the whole maritime sector and allow anyone to apply regardless of company size or length of career.
The prestigious black-tie awards event, to be held on 5 October, promises to be a glittering affair, held at Portsmouth Historic Dockyard. Tickets are due to go on sale on 10 July.
Previous winner Devorne Gibson Pictured, centre right), who won last year’s Apprentice of the Year award, said: "Receiving the Maritime UK Solent award for Apprentice of the Year was awesome. I felt gifted that my hard work and determination was recognised not only by the Royal Navy but from a prestigious organisation outside the military such as Maritime UK Solent.
“I truly believe things like this make the world of difference to the hard-working personnel of today’s Royal Navy. Knowing that there are people out here who appreciate our efforts motivates me to continue the hard work."
Give your company a boost and show your staff the recognition and celebration they deserve, by applying for the Maritime UK Solent Awards today. Apply here: https://muksolent.com/muksolent-awards-2023/
Brittany Ferries selects RINA’s SERTICA as preferred fleet management system
Brittany Ferries, the ferry company connecting France, the UK, Spain and Ireland has selected RINA’s SERTICA as its new fleet management system. The move aligns Brittany Ferries with leading ferry companies operating in France and solidifies SERTICA's position as the go-to solution for comprehensive fleet management.
The decision to implement SERTICA followed an extensive evaluation by Brittany Ferries, in seeking a reliable and hosted fleet management solution. By choosing SERTICA, Brittany Ferries joins the ranks of other prominent ferry operators, which have already integrated the system into daily operations.
SERTICA, developed by RINA, is specifically designed to streamline and optimize maritime operations, by offering a wide range of features for maintenance, procurement, and safety management. The system empowers fleet operators with the tools to enhance efficiency and ensure regulatory compliance.
The adoption of SERTICA is expected to deliver numerous benefits for Brittany Ferries as the advanced maintenance management features will enable proactive vessel maintenance. By adopting RINA’s system, Brittany Ferries will replace multiple systems and reinforce its commitment to excellence and innovation in the maritime industry.
Expressing excitement about the partnership, Arnaud Le Poulichet, Director of Maintenance and Engineering of Brittany Ferries stated: "We are confident that SERTICA's suite of fleet management tools will enhance our operational capabilities. We look forward to a strong and successful partnership in the years to come."
Lars Riisberg, RINA Digital Solutions Executive Vice President, commented: “The success of SERTICA in gaining the trust of major ferry companies operating in France underscores its ability to meet the complex demands of the maritime sector. With its intuitive user interface, advanced analytics, and reporting capabilities, it provides invaluable insights to fleet managers, enabling data-driven decision-making and ensuring regulatory compliance.”
As SERTICA continues to expand its user base among the leading ferry companies in France, the maritime industry is witnessing a transformation in fleet management and operations. The widespread adoption of this advanced solution heralds a new era of efficiency, safety, and reliability for ferry operators and paves the way for further advancements in the maritime sector.
PowerCell Group, e1 Marine and Maritime Partners demonstrate first methanol-to-fuel cell power chain
As part of the validation of Maritime Partners, LLC’s M/V Hydrogen One inland pushboat, leading hydrogen fuel cell supplier PowerCell Group and methanol-to-hydrogen technology pioneer e1 Marine in partnership with RIX Industries have conducted a successful string test of their respective technologies for a 200kW propulsion chain. This chain can be multiplied and scaled to a megawatt level.
The result of the test proves the viability of a unique concept that takes methanol fuel and converts it to hydrogen onboard ships before using the hydrogen in a fuel cell to generate power cleanly and efficiently.
The system is the first of its kind and intended for use in many application segments such as tugboats, push-boats and superyachts. The M/V Hydrogen One's 1.4MW methanol-to-hydrogen system is featured as the sole power generation source for its propulsion chain.
The string test was performed on land at PowerCell Group's headquarters in Gothenburg, Sweden, which involves assembling all of the key power-train components and testing them as a system.
The concept unlocks new opportunities for hydrogen-powered vessels by storing the fuel as methanol, which is less complex than using hydrogen. The conversion technology then transforms the methanol into fuel cell-ready hydrogen.
PowerCell Group has pioneered megawatt-scale fuel cell solutions for the maritime sector, which are fully marinised and adapted to the challenges of usage onboard ships. These cells use the hydrogen to generate power as this is the most energy-efficient method of extracting power from fuels. This would be one of the most effective means of using green methanol, produced from renewable energy, to enable a net zero-carbon solution.
The specifics of using a methanol hydrogen generator is that it outputs low-pressure hydrogen on demand when needed. This enables a safe installation and highly integrated solutions which have minimal impact on the overall vessel design and does not have to be installed on weather decks.
Richard Berkling, CEO at PowerCell Group, said: “The successful completion of these tests gives future ship owners, integrators and methanol suppliers the confidence they need in this powerful combination of technologies. Fuel cells are some of the most efficient ways to extract energy from fuel, and we are deploying them at a scale never seen before. This can be seen in our project with Torghatten Nord, where we will supply 12,8 MW fuel cells on Norway’s longest ferry route – the largest maritime project to date. This string test demonstrates that whatever the fuel, the new generation of fuel cells is ready to use it.”
Robert Schluter, Managing Director at e1 Marine, said: “This rigorous test has delivered exciting results thanks to a great deal of collaboration between equipment suppliers, and the results should be a cause for optimism across the industry. This test demonstrates that a methanol-to-hydrogen power chain is ready and waiting to deliver renewable power to a range of maritime applications.”
Austin Sperry, President and Co-Founder at Maritime Partners, said: “We too are pleased by the results and system validation, allowing the M/V Hydrogen One to hit the water in 2024.”
DNV awards Type Approval Design Certificate to BAR Technologies’ WindWings
BAR Technologies (BARTech), an innovative simulation-driven marine engineering consultancy, has been awarded a full Type Approval Design Certificate (TADC) for its wind propulsion technology – BAR Technologies WindWings by Yara Marine Technologies (WindWings) - from classification society DNV.
Since being awarded an Approval In Principle (AIP) for WindWings in 2021, inventor and designer BARTech, and industrialisation partner Yara Marine Technologies (YMT), have focused on progressing the WindWings design through to the next level of DNV certification. This has involved validating WindWings design compliance with full detail on construction, loading analysis, the use of materials and the supporting technical systems and their redundancy.
With TADC now granted for WindWings, there is a clear route forward for the technology to be installed on any DNV-classed vessel, either as a retrofit, or on newbuilds, giving vessel owners and operators the confidence to progress with their carbon reduction programmes under Carbon Intensity Index (CII) reporting and monitoring.
“Securing TADC is a key milestone for the evolution of WindWings technology, as we move towards installation on the MC Shipping vessel, Pyxis Ocean,” said Lauren Eatwell, Head of WindWings, BAR Technologies. “Working closely with our project partners and DNV has ensured that while it’s been a long journey to TADC, our patented technology is now in a position for rapid roll out to support fleet emissions reduction.”
“The first vessel to be fitted with WindWings in the coming weeks, will be the Pyxis Ocean - a Kamsarmax owned by MC Shipping and chartered by Cargill- which will be closely followed by the Berge Olympus - a Newcastlemax owned by Berge Bulk. These vessels will be the first of many to enjoy fuel savings of approximately 1.5 tonnes of fuel per WindWing per day on an average worldwide route, and, therefore reduced CO2 emissions of some 4.65 tonnes per WindWing per day.”
“We are very pleased to be able to award BAR Technologies the TADC for their WIndWings solution,” said Hasso Hoffmeister, Senior Principal Engineer, DNV. “This has been an excellent and growing cooperation, both with the BAR team and their project partners.
“At DNV we focus on providing our customers with the ability to push technological boundaries in line with the most innovative, practical, and adaptable rule set in the industry. Our WAPS technical standard and notation are constantly evolving, and with this award BAR Technologies can demonstrate that the WindWings solution rests on a foundation of trusted assurance.”
ICS welcomes United Nations’ adoption of High Seas Treaty
Speaking at the UN headquarters in New York this week, the International Chamber of Shipping (ICS) has welcomed the adoption of the landmark High Seas Treaty, intended to cover gaps in ocean governance to ensure that emerging high seas industries will be as well-regulated as shipping is by the IMO.
A significant breakthrough came in March 2023 when nearly 200 nation States took part in the discussions and came to an agreement in finalising the text of the High Seas Treaty.
The historic agreement forms the substance of an international legally binding instrument under the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS) on the conservation and sustainable use of marine biological diversity of areas beyond national jurisdiction (BBNJ agreement). ICS has been an active part of this important work since 2016 and welcomes this positive development.
Emily Rowley, ICS Policy Manager (Legal), has represented ICS at the United Nations on BBNJ for over five years and commented: “We are delighted that after more than two decades of work the High Seas Treaty has been formally adopted. There is still a way to go of course before it comes into effect, as 60 member states need to ratify, but this is without question a significant moment and should be celebrated.”
ICS has been representing the shipping industry in the discussions to ensure that the international maritime community is engaged, and that the industry’s unique nature is considered. ICS’s position has also been to support government’s understanding of the IMO’s role as shipping’s global regulator.
The High Seas Treaty builds on the requirements to protect the marine environment contained in UNCLOS. One of its important features is that it sets out a process to enable the establishment of cross-sectoral Marine Protected Areas (MPAs) and other area-based management tools in the high seas and the underlying seabed. This is of particular note as currently with just over 1% of the high seas region protected, the BBNJ will be a key tool in delivering agreed upon targets of 30% global MPAs.
Emily Rowley continued: “From a shipping industry’s perspective, the High Seas Treaty agreement takes into account the IMO’s role and is intended to cover gaps in ocean governance. It will help ensure that emerging high seas industries will be as well-regulated as shipping is by IMO, with the detail of any measures that may be needed for ships to be discussed and agreed at IMO.”
“Fundamentally the agreement should enhance cooperation and coordination between UN agencies and other global and regional regulators of activities on the high seas. This will foster a holistic approach to the protection of marine biodiversity and ecosystems in areas where no one State is responsible for preserving them.
“It is important for shipping that the oceans are properly regulated and managed. The BBNJ Agreement is a meaningful step forward in ensuring that the oceans are used sustainably and conserved for present and future generations.”
Idwal Introduces ground-breaking vessel-level ESG report
Idwal, a leading provider of maritime intelligence and inspection services, announces the launch of its pioneering vessel-level Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) report. This ground-breaking report offers visibility into the ESG performance of an individual asset, including how corporate principles translate into on-board understanding and adherence, establishing a new industry standard for assessing and monitoring ESG strategies at a granular level.
Idwal has developed the ESG standard over the last year, based on industry regulations, current best practices and through its unique experience of independently inspecting more than 3000 ships per annum, and has since perfected that measure with close partners, including shipping financiers, ship owners, managers and charterers.
By evaluating each category of Environmental (E), Social (S), and Governance (G) factors, and assigning grades to each group, the report offers valuable clarity into specific points and, as with all Idwal ship inspection reports, the Idwal ESG report can provide benchmarking and context across a company or in relation to the world fleet.
Commenting on the significance of this ground-breaking initiative, George Haysom (pictured), CCO of Idwal, stated: "Our vessel-level ESG report fills a clear gap in the industry, addressing the growing need for standardised and objective assessments of ESG practices at the asset level. With a clear and concise layout mirroring our existing inspection report structure, our clients will find it easy to follow and utilise.
“The report can assist with corporate reporting requirements and is a powerful tool for ESG officers, so we believe that it represents a significant step forward in the visibility of the maritime industry’s commitment to sustainability and responsible business practices.”
By reducing subjectivity and enhancing standardisation, the report helps shipping companies effectively manage their ESG risks and bolster their reputation in the eyes of stakeholders. It represents a significant step forward in the visibility of the maritime industry's commitment to sustainability and responsible business practices and leads to greater transparency, accountability and success.
For more information on the enhanced service from Idwal, please see https://www.idwalmarine.com/esg-report. For an ESG report quote, please contact: enquiries@idwalmarine.com
ONE commits $1 million in support of Sisters’ Islands Marine Park
At the opening of the 5th Asia Pacific Coral Reef Symposium, organized by the National University of Singapore (NUS) and supported by National Parks Board (NParks), NParks announced a new series of partnerships and projects to support marine conservation in Singapore.
A new 230-metre-long Ocean Network Express Coastal Forest Trail will be built, supported by a donation of $1 million from Ocean Network Express (ONE), through NParks’ registered charity and IPC, Garden City Fund. The trail will bring visitors through coastal habitats on Big Sister’s Island, one of the islands within Sisters’ Islands Marine Park in Singapore.
Habitat enhancement will also be carried out in the area surrounding the trail through the planting of critically endangered coastal species such as Putat Laut (Barringtonia asiatica) and Penaga Laut (Calophyllum inophyllum), which provide shelter for bird species such as the critically endangered Great-billed Heron (Ardea sumatrana) and Spotted Wood Owl (Strix seloputo).
The trail will culminate in a hilltop view deck, which will offer visitors scenic views of the neighbouring offshore islands and a vantage point for birdwatching. This will help enhance visitors’ experience of the island and create greater awareness of the importance of the various coastal and marine habitats in Singapore. In addition, it will help highlight the important ecosystem services like shoreline protection these habitats provide.
The trail will be opened to the public when the enhancement works to Sisters’ Islands Marine Park are completed in early 2024.
First Hapag-Lloyd ship in FE-2 service calls Wilhelmshaven
Since April 2023, JadeWeserPort in Wilhelmshaven has been part of the regular rotation of the FE2 service in the sailing schedule of the partners in THE Alliance (Hapag-Lloyd, ONE, Yang Ming and Hyundai MM). Last week, the almost 20,000 TEU ‘Al Zubara’ made the first-ever call of a Hapag-Lloyd-owned vessel in the FE2 service at the Container Terminal Wilhelmshaven (CTW).
Joerg Sonne, Head of Hapag-Lloyd’s Region North Europe, mainly views the port as an important second pillar for Hapag-Lloyd and its customers. “Wilhelmshaven especially proved its value in the last two years while ports were congested,” he says. “We view it as an advantage that we offer our customers two gateways to Germany in order to be able to flexibly and reliably deliver their cargo. At the same time, the port has also become a cost-efficient alternative.”
At present, investments are being made in the container terminal’s infrastructure. For example, the eight container-handling gantry cranes currently in place are being raised by 11 metres to enable them to optimally handle 24,000 TEU ships, and two more of these cranes are being installed. The automation is in the planning.
Hapag-Lloyd has held a 30% stake in CTW since 2022. In addition, the Rail Terminal Wilhelmshaven (RTW), in which Hapag-Lloyd holds a 50% stake, has been electrified and expanded to have two tracks.
ABS Chairman, President and CEO delivers inspirational commencement message to Webb Institute graduates
“We will need your leadership vision, not to mention every ounce of your ingenuity and sweat, if our industry is to meet both the challenges and opportunities we face today.”
That was the message from Christopher J. Wiernicki, ABS Chairman, President and CEO to the graduating class of 2023 at the Webb Institute. He explained that Webb Institute alumni can expect to answer the call to leadership during their careers because of their education and training.
“Remember, you have been expressly trained to become the maritime leaders of tomorrow. I have seen that everyone can be a leader, and all of you will be leaders in different capacities and in different ways over the course of your lives.”
In a heartfelt speech outlining his approach to leadership, he emphasized the enduring importance of people in an increasingly technology driven industry.
“On a personal level, it’s important to recognize that human dignity and respect are the cornerstones of leadership; it is harder to be kind than it is to demonstrate your intelligence. Your integrity defines you as a leader and you need to trade on it every day, doing what is right rather than what is easy.
“Over the years, technologies have changed and will continue to change, but never forget these technologies are useless without people. People, not new fuels and technologies, will be the real heroes on our journey through the global clean energy transition. Because, at the end of the day, technology has no sense of humor, intuition or common sense.”
He illustrated the point with a powerful story about his parents’ life journey through World War II and ultimately to a new life in the United States. He challenged the graduates to write a letter to their future selves setting out the thoughts and values that would guide them through the unknown challenges to come, as he had done.
“It is these foundational principles of leadership combined with strong personal values that have sustained me through my work guiding a world class company through the turbulent waters of decarbonization and digitalization, not to mention the aftermath of a global pandemic, and rapid technological advancement,” he said.
“I wonder what it is that you will write? What is it that inspires you? What are the foundations of your own leadership style? I urge you to commit to envision your future, and then make it happen.”
Finnlines and NAPA to deploy electronic logbooks on newbuild hybrid ferries
Finnlines has announced an agreement with NAPA, a global maritime software and data services expert, to install NAPA’s electronic reporting, fleet monitoring and stability management solutions on two newbuild ‘Superstar-class’ ro-pax vessels. The two highly sophisticated ro-pax vessels, which will use several energy-saving technologies, will operate between Finland and Sweden.
NAPA’s next-generation digital solutions will harness the detailed, traceable data in the ships’ logs on all aspects of operations, and use it to generate valuable insights on safety, efficiency, compliance, and sustainability for the sister vessels Finnsirius and Finncanopus – thanks to enhanced data capturing and sharing between onboard and shoreside teams.
Under the agreement, the two ships will be equipped with NAPA’s electronic Logbooks, which will automate and streamline mandatory reporting and record-keeping required by the flag state and the IMO’s MARPOL and SOLAS conventions. This will help reduce the administrative burden for crews, save time and limit the risk of errors.
The Finnsirius and Finncanopus will be the first ships under the Finnish flag to boast the new NAPA Logbook with cloud-based Fleet Intelligence modules, which enable seamless real-time data exchange between crew on board and Finnlines’ onshore organization. This operational data will be integrated and analyzed to identify opportunities for further optimization, supporting Finnlines’ commitment to sustainable and efficient operations.
Furthermore, the two vessels will feature NAPA’s stability management solution, which is already used by the current Finnlines fleet. The software enables ship and shoreside teams to share and view all stability data, including loading conditions, stability margins, and watertight door status, in real time, thereby supporting a more proactive approach to voyage safety and planning.
Built by the China Merchants Jinling shipyard, the two Superstar class vessels present greater capacity compared to other ro-pax ships in the fleet, carrying up to 1,100 passengers each and 5,200 lane metres cargo, as well as enhanced energy efficiency and environmental performance. Finnsirius is expected to be delivered in July 2023 and will enter operations in the autumn of 2023, while Finncanopus is scheduled to begin operations by the end of the year.
Pasi Väänänen, Technical Superintendent at Finnlines, said: “Our sea connections are a vital link between countries bordering the Baltic Sea and the North Sea, bringing people together and supporting businesses and supply chains in the region. We are dedicated to meeting this important need for maritime transport as efficiently, safely, and sustainably as possible.
“Proper data capturing and analysis onboard our vessels is an essential foundation for progress on all these aspects. We are proud to pursue our digital journey with NAPA, which will provide our teams with the data they need not only to ensure compliance, but also to further optimize our overall business operations moving forward.”
Esa Henttinen, Executive Vice President for Safety Solutions at NAPA, said: “We are proud to partner with Finnlines, an industry leader with a long-standing commitment to sustainability, as they further strengthen their operations with enhanced data collection and sharing. This partnership is a tangible example of the new opportunities that shipping can unlock with its onboard operational data, with efficiencies that go beyond navigation and route optimization. Beyond mandatory reporting, this data can be integrated and analyzed to deliver insights that will inform actions to deliver more efficient and sustainable operations.
“More than reporting on results, greater data collection is also an opportunity to improve those results. By streamlining various reporting on technical, environmental, vessel discharge and waste management, including MARPOL, ESG, IMO DCS, EU MRV, and CII, we can monitor and boost efficiency on a wide range of operational factors, from fuel efficiency to waste management and safety, for example. This is why electronic reporting solutions are bound to play a key role in the decarbonization transition, helping companies harness their data for better decision-making.”
DeepSea provides free entry-point for shipping companies to start exploring AI benchmarking tools
DeepSea has announced that it is making a full vessel data set and DeepSea’s automatic model evaluation tool available for free to the shipping industry for the next 12 months. This is the first time that such tools have ever been made available to the public - and allows innovation, research and technical departments with strong data science capabilities to start exploring AI.
The announcement follows the publication of the winners of the Shifts Challenge 2023. The competition is an international collaboration of academic and industrial researchers, including Cambridge University, and is helping to make shipping a first-class citizen in AI research.
Overall, the Shifts Challenge received 175 submissions from institutional and academic research teams and individuals. The two areas of focus were ship power prediction and white matter multiple sclerosis lesion segmentation. The winning submission in the shipping track was made by a team from IBM Dublin, which proposed a novel approach, harnessing learnings from the wind turbine sector in order to gain new insights from the data provided. Their solution could predict vessel power under a broad set of conditions, recording a 13% performance improvement against the reference model DeepSea provided as a baseline.
The full vessel data set from the challenge will now be provided for use to researchers and technical specialists in the maritime industry, and can be accessed via Zenodo (an open-source research database operated by CERN). DeepSea intends for it to help support the development of robust vessel models across the industry - something essential in enabling the sector to cut costs and cope with environmental regulations.
Commenting on the Shifts Challenge, Dr Nikitakis, DeepSea’s AI Director, said: “We were delighted to see the diverse set of solutions that the competitors provided. We’re also pleased to be opening this AI environment up to the whole of the shipping industry. We are always trying to “fight the hype” around AI, and there is no better way than giving the public the tools to explore - and evaluate - their own AI solutions. Perhaps later down the line we will put on a similar challenge for all AI providers in the industry - we hope they’ll take us on!”
Commenting on their winning submission, Seshu Tirupathi from the IBM Dublinteam, said: “Challenges in making inferences on data with distribution shifts can be expected to gain increased importance with the exponential growth of data and real-time monitoring applications. This sort of research is extremely important, as it avoids unreliable predictions that may lead to life-threatening situations. Avenues like the Shifts Challenge provide ground truth from real-world data that is essential to develop and validate robust algorithms in the space of distribution shifts and concept drifts.”
Dr. Konstantinos Kyriakopoulos, CEO and co-founder of DeepSea, said: “Though AI is still a relative newcomer to the shipping sector, it has already proven itself as an exceptional tool for those looking to optimise fuel consumption, emissions, and industry ratings. Like any other cutting-edge research area, this technology can only develop as part of an ecosystem, and the Shifts Project is (amongst other things) designed to help catalyse and support this movement. Industrial AI is a field where BS is rife, and it’s these sort of initiatives that help the industry to know who to trust.”
ABB introduces OCTOPUS Operational Planner for increased uptime and safety of offshore wind farm operations
ABB has introduced a new Operational Planner module for its ABB Ability™ OCTOPUS – Marine Advisory System to help offshore fleet managers plan and optimize the maintenance of offshore wind farm operations.
Offshore support vessels typically operate close to their shore base with frequent trips to fixed assets, such as wind turbines at sea, which sets specific requirements to their ability to perform in demanding conditions. Moreover, as the vessels perform time-sensitive and demanding marine operations, planning is of utmost importance.
For support vessels moving between turbines or rigs during a single shift, OCTOPUS Operational Planner forecasts vessel workability across multiple sites, benefiting decisions on deployment, safety, efficiency and sustainability. Offshore fleet managers can rely on the system to optimize the performance of offshore support vessels, as well as the equipment and crew onboard.
The Software as a Service (SaaS) OCTOPUS Operational Planner is an industry-first functionality, allowing users onboard or ashore to plan and optimize operations for various offshore locations. Whereas an offshore support vessel typically relies on an onboard weather routing system to predict weather and wave heights, OCTOPUS incorporates the weather forecast into the system, combines it with the vessel’s hydrodynamic properties based on size and design, and calculates the expected vessel motions. Thus, instead of weather, the operational limit of the vessel is based on its maximum allowable motions for offshore operations, for example safety in deploying robotic platforms for inspection and maintenance.
The module represents ABB’s contribution as a key technology partner for the EU-funded ATLANTIS research project. ATLANTIS is exploring remote offshore inspection and maintenance techniques using advanced robotic systems for wind farms and developed two Testbeds in the Atlantic Ocean to be used by the international community.
“ATLANTIS project is all about optimizing safety and efficiency with smart robotics when performing maintenance tasks at offshore wind farms,” said Dr. Andry Maykol Pinto, Project Coordinator, ATLANTIS. “The OCTOPUS Operational Planner plays a vital role in planning these offshore tasks, by giving the vessels and the shipowners onshore access to a motion-based mission planner, determining the operational window and thereby reducing the costs and increasing the safety of these operations.”
“The Operational Planner is a great addition to the OCTOPUS - Marine Advisory System suite of products,” said Osku Kälkäjä, Head of Digital Business, ABB Marine & Ports. “This is a significant step forward in the offshore wind and energy industries. Rough seas can mean cancellation of offshore projects at short notice but making the wrong call has an opportunity cost, at a time when wind turbine installation vessel rates are on the rise.”
Enhancing operational efficiency in maintenance is a growing challenge for the offshore wind sector. The Global Wind Energy Council forecasts the sector will add 680 GW of new capacity in the period 2023-2027, and a surge in demand is anticipated for support, crew transfer and maintenance vessels to maintain wind farms over the course of their lifespan.
Beau Campfield promotes ‘holistic approach’ to transform shipping operations in new role with OrbitMI
Shipping companies need an integrated approach to solve their operational challenges with unified digital solutions that deliver value creation without disrupting existing business processes, according to OrbitMI’s newly appointed Regional Director Americas Beau Campfield (pictured).
“That is why I am so excited to join OrbitMI as its suite of intuitive SaaS (software as a service) solutions deliver intelligent connected workflows, ensuring transformation without disruption,” Campfield says.
OrbitMI has taken “a uniquely innovative and holistic approach” to the dual challenges of improving vessel performance and cutting GHG emissions that now have commercial as well as environmental priority due to new regulations such as CII and the EU’s Emissions Trading System, he says.
Orbit operationalizes data from multiple APIs into intelligent connected workflows that allow seamless real-time data access across an organization. This eliminates repetitive and time-consuming tasks, such as multiple log-ins, double entry and cut-and-paste, caused by having data stored in different siloed systems that can lead to manual errors, reduced productivity and increased business risk.
Campfield explains intelligent connected workflows are the orchestration of automation, AI, analytics, data feeds and skills to fundamentally change how work gets done. He is highly familiar with this concept from his previous position with OrbitMI partner Sedna that has integrated its smart email application into the Orbit platform.
“OrbitMI has demonstrated the power of partnership through collaboration with other like-minded vendors, which results in enhanced system functionality that can yield significant value gains for the end-user,” Campfield says.
“This also represents a shift from siloed systems, which hinder the use of valuable data, towards data-sharing that will be important in the industry’s quest to reduce its environmental footprint.”
Campfield emphasizes the company is also taking an empathetic, client-centric approach to product development by focusing on the needs of the end-user.
“Our goal is to be seen as a trusted advisor delivering value at scale rather than just a vendor; to go beyond partnership and be recognized as a true extension of their business,” he explains.
Campfield brings with him a wealth of experience having seen the inception of maritime digital technology while working in the Nineties with computer-based navigation systems in bluewater yachting that saw advances in GPS, electronic raster and vector charts.
He subsequently witnessed the dotcom boom in global shipping during a five-year stint in sales at leading shipping publication TradeWinds, which he describes as an “exciting and transformational time” for the industry.
More recently, Campfield played an integral role in the launch of technology firm Q88’s voyage management system and position list as shipping began to embrace the cloud and SaaS solutions. His role at Q88 served as a springboard both for Sedna and his new role where he firmly believes that collaboration - both with partners and clients - is key.
“As a global industry, we ALL work better together. My ambition is to provide ship owners, charterers, brokers, agents, and vendors alike with truly holistic, scalable and future-proof solutions to better serve their clients and partners while simultaneously improving their environmental impact, operational efficiency and profitability,” Campfield concludes.
The Britannia Group issues financial results for 2023
The Britannia Group reports a strong 2023/24 renewal, with a significant year-on-year increase in owned tonnage to 142.0m gt (from 134.7m gt). Chartered tonnage reduced to 51.0m gt giving an overall total entered tonnage of 193m gt.
Further significant improvement in the underwriting result from the previous year was shown, with a combined ratio of 106.6% (down from 116.4%). Calls and premiums were higher than in the prior year, at USD258.1m compared with USD216.9m, due to increased rates at the 2022 renewal as well as new tonnage.
The Group says that remedial action undertaken in addition to the increase in Estimated Total Call (ETC), has put it on course to meet its target of breakeven underwriting. Further increases in ETC have been achieved at the 2023 renewal as part of a continuing process to ensure that a sustainable, balanced result is achieved.
Overall result for the year was a loss of USD77.8m post tax. The net return from the investment portfolio was negative, reflecting the volatility in all investment markets, and broadly in line with market indices.
Changes to the Britannia Group structure include the merger of the two Bermuda reinsurers in the Britannia Group, USMIA and Boudicca, and restarting a limited amount of underwriting from Britannia (UK)
Anthony Firmin, the Britannia Group’s Chairman, commented as follows: “The Britannia Group’s capital position remains one of the strongest in the IG and Standard & Poor’s continues to rate the club as A (but with a negative outlook). This year‘s renewal, with our targeted increase of 10%, was a major step towards returning to a stable outlook.
“Our Members again showed their appreciation of our high standard of service, with over 98% renewing and many increasing their entered tonnage. I am also pleased to see some notable new Members join us, who are planning to grow their entry with the Britannia Group as their relationship with us develops.”
Norvic Shipping becomes a ship owner and expands tanker division
Norvic Shipping announces the expansion of its tanker division as part its ambitious growth strategy.
To kick-start its growth plans, the New York-headquartered company has purchased Pro Alliance, an aframax LR2 tanker from SK Energy in South Korea. The acquisition of the vessel, which has been renamed Norvic Monia, sees Norvic owning its first ship outright, marking a strategic shift from an operator to owner-operator model.
While deploying Norvic Monia, a 105,348 dwt aframax LR2 vessel, on routes around the world, Norvic will consider buying more tankers to grow the fleet and to expand its tanker division.
Meanwhile, the company is pushing ahead with plans to take delivery of three newbuild dry bulk vessels from Japanese yards, which have been taken on long-term charters. This includes two handymax vessels from Onomichi Yard and one ultramax from Imabari yard. All vessels will be delivered between Q3 and Q4 of this year. The company is also in talks to to take further newbuild dry bulk vessels on long-term charters.
Purchasing Norvic Monia marks a return to Norvic’s origins with the company launched as a tanker operator in 2006 in Canada. Since expanding to dry bulk in 2012, Norvic has grown into a US$1.3 billion+ turnover company.
“Going back to our roots and growing the tanker division makes strategic sense given the combination of the ongoing global need for crude oil and finished products and shortage of tonnage in the tanker sector,” commented AJ Rahman, Group Chairman and CEO.
He continued: “Unlike dry bulk, the tanker segment is relatively stable with demand expected to grow faster than supply this year and next. Demand in 2024 for crude tankers will be up 4.5% to 6.5% from 2022, according to BIMCO, while supply is likely to fall 0.6%. Given the lack of a new order book in the tanker segment, we believe the time is now to move into ownership.”
VIKAND and SeaTec collaborate to help the cruise industry meet its decarbonization and energy reduction objectives
Global healthcare specialist VIKAND is partnering with SeaTec, the independent maritime technical service provider, to support ship operators in their pursuit to reduce fuel emissions and energy consumption to meet industry environmental standards and improve air quality onboard.
With steadfast goals to support cruise operators and clients throughout the maritime industry, VIKAND and SeaTec are actively identifying solutions to lower all their clients’ environmental footprints and to provide strategies which will help them achieve key sustainability goals.
The key focus of the partnership will be to collaboratively introduce VIKAND’s Air Purification solution to the cruise industry, and beyond. This alliance forms a technical and technological synergy that will help to optimise ship operations and consequently satisfy Environment, Social and Governance (ESG) objectives.
VIKAND’s Air Purification Solution, which uses Pyure technology, is a patented system approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) that proactively and continuously reduces viruses, bacteria, odours and Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs) both in the air and on surfaces. By its nature, air purification provides critical results for an industry responding to the need for heightened attention to ESG.
VIKAND’s Air Purification solution has been proven to lower emissions and energy consumption. Through higher air recirculation, it reduces the Heating, Ventilation and Air-Conditioning (HVAC) load on a ship which typically accounts from between 20-50% of a ship’s energy consumption and fuel usage, offering significant energy savings for all vessels, whilst enabling measurable results towards environmental goals.
From the public health, or “social” perspective, air purification is vital for interiors and the wellbeing of crew and guests. The solution actively improves the air quality onboard whilst reducing communicable diseases to meet the social standards and achieve a higher level of wellbeing onboard for guests and crew alike.
“Collaboration is more and more important in the maritime industry as we collectively address challenges of decarbonisation and sustainability. Working together has never been more important which is why we have teamed up with SeaTec. Through our partnership, we are providing a proactive solution to help our clients meet their sustainability and ESG goals,” said Peter Hult, CEO of VIKAND.
“As an ESG leader for the maritime industry, SeaTec is dedicated to promoting industry best practices. Our partnership with VIKAND will help us to realise our customers’ environmental goals by reducing energy consumption whilst simultaneously enhancing crew welfare,” said Elliot Gow, CEO of V.Services, which includes SeaTec within its portfolio of marine support services.
CSM signs agreement with Oceanly
Columbia Shipmanagement has agreed to install Oceanly Performance solution on board of its ships.
"Oceanly is a perfect fit for the services that Columbia wants to provide to its customers. The software will allow our technical managers to have a very intimate control of all technical aspects of our managed vessels, while at the same time ensuring complete compliance on all the emission and reporting regulations" says Mark O'Neil, Columbia Group CEO (pictured, left), who was visiting Norshipping and passed by Oceanly’s stand to seal the deal with the company Managing Director, Giampiero Soncini (right).
"We especially appreciate that Performance is an open system, where our own Data analysis team will be able to add or modify any algorithm, even add equipment and easily connect it to the data flow coming from the Navigation and Automation systems."
Oceanly reached an agreement for its Performance Software to be part of OneLink, a customizable solution which brings together a number of performance platforms under one umbrella, providing a unique set of digital services and solutions to the shipping industry.
"Being selected by Columbia is a privilege, and it pays for all the efforts of the past 5 years," says Mr. Soncini. "I believe Oceanly Performance to be the best in its class, and the recent number of contracts we signed shows it. Columbia is our first ship management company, and their interest in our product shows that they believe in the advantages it can bring not only to Columbia, but also to Columbia customers.’’
We asked Mr. Soncini what the relationship between OneLink and Oceanly is. He explained: "OneLink, an independent company, is a perfect complement to Oceanly: it has Bunker and Lube Oil forecasts, a VR based Training module, and they manage a Control Room which is manned 24/7/365, providing Control room services to the customers who may not want to have their own. It expands our offerings in a very logical way."
"Our aim is to provide a single window offering for our customer’s performance and optimization needs," says Capt. Pankaj Sharma, Managing Director of OneLink. "Operators who previously had to utilize numerous different tools & services to get all the information they needed to optimize vessel performance and manage emissions regulations can now turn to the OneLink. Through the consolidation of service providers and innovative integration of systems, OneLink is able to provide an unmatched service offering, surpassing any competitor."
VIKING steps up to the electric vehicle firefighting challenge
Special project on electric vehicle fires leads VIKING Life-Saving Equipment to sign distribution agreements for fire extinguishing innovations in marine fire safety
As part of its ever-intensifying focus on marine fire safety, VIKING has reached agreements to distribute Bridgehill’s fire blankets and the Rosenbauer Battery Extinguisher System (BEST) to maritime customers worldwide. The agreements are key outcomes of a project focusing on fire safety needs arising from the growing electric vehicle numbers moving by ship – and more initiatives are to be added in the future.
All cars carried by ship are classified as Dangerous Goods (DG). However, electric vehicle (EV) fires raise specific safety concerns because battery fires are notoriously hard to extinguish, but also because cars are stowed close together and the crew are not professional firefighters. First responders are exposed to shock risks as well as fire, while lithium-ion battery fires spread low and outwards, and damaged cells can trigger thermal runaways.
European Maritime Safety Agency ‘Guidance on the Carriage of Alternative-Fuel Vehicles in Ro-Ro Spaces’, recommends risk assessments for every vessel moving EVs and carriage of procedures for prevention and mitigation of EV fires. Recommended procedures included the use of “portable equipment (local water cooling etc)” and “a strategy to contain the fire”.
"It often takes a long time for a lithium battery to burn out which means it is imperative that it is contained onboard as quickly as possible,” comments Louise Søgaard, Product Manager at VIKING Life-Saving Equipment. "On a car ferry, it’s crucial to isolate the fire and smoke quickly first, to prevent the fire from spreading in order to keep passengers and crew out of harm’s way.”
This risk scenario is the basis for the agreement with Bridgehill, whose Bridgehill fire blanket offers specific performance characteristics to deal with EV fires. The company has already delivered several units to a major car carrier owner and to ferries worldwide, where its 6x8 m, 26 kg blankets can be deployed by two personnel and reused multiple times.
Bridgehill founder, Frank Brubakken, says VIKING fully verified the performance of Bridgehill fire blankets while noting that no formal maritime standards exist covering fire blankets. “Tested according to EN standards, the product is nonetheless more than fit for marine safety purposes. Given its melting temperature is around 2,500oC; Bridgehill fire blankets can contain an EV fire comfortably until other steps are taken or the vehicle is removed. As a minimum, each car deck should have its own fire blanket.”
The Rosenbauer BEST system, meanwhile, has been purpose-developed to extinguish high-voltage lithium-ion batteries in EVs, with the firefighter using a piercing stinger attached to a hose to penetrate the battery housing and flood the cells, rather than the deck. Direct cooling stops the chemical reaction in the cells and consequent thermal runaway.
“The BEST system has been tested with all known battery types used by European and American manufacturers of passenger cars, trucks, and vans, in capacities of up to 120 kWh,” says Louise Søgaard. “European emergency response services have also tested the system extensively and provided valuable feedback on its practical applications.”
René Kofod, Center Manager at the Slagelse Rescue and Safety Center, Denmark, has spent two years overseeing trials within the ELBAS project (Electric Vehicle Fires at Sea: New Technologies and Methods for Suppression, Containment, and Extinguishing of Battery Car Fires Onboard Ships). He says the Danish Institute of Fire and Security Technology project has confirmed that firefighting tools which deliver water to the battery cell through intermediary spikes or spears are safe, fast and highly effective.
“This type of approach is a new development that you won’t find in the STCW Code,” says René Kofod. “An induction process is certainly necessary to learn about hose connections, pressure set-ups and so on. But the technology is very efficient. The cooling process starts immediately after penetration: sensors in the battery pack show temperatures dropping from 600 degrees to 60 degrees within about 15 minutes, with flow of about 25 liters of water per minute. Other solutions can use 10 or 20 times that amount, which can cause problems on a ship.”
With the increasing demand for electric vehicles, VIKING maintains its position as a leader in fire safety solutions, offering state-of-the-art technology and expert guidance. Leveraging extensive knowledge of EV fire risks and agility in adapting to evolving market dynamics, VIKING is ready to assist industry operators worldwide in their commitment to safety in the era of electric mobility.
Atlantic Offshore selects fleet LTE for its north sea fleet
Inmarsat Maritime, a Viasat business, has reached an agreement with long-standing customer Atlantic Offshore to implement Fleet LTE across the Norwegian offshore service provider’s multifunctional fleet. The commitment will ensure vessels maintain continuous access to high-speed, low-latency connectivity in the North Sea during their offshore supply, seismic support and oil recovery duties.
As an all-in-one solution, Fleet LTE will allow the vessels to connect to 4G offshore fibre networks when in range and Inmarsat’s market-leading Ka-band service, Fleet Xpress, when sailing beyond LTE coverage zones. Switchover between the services is a seamless, fully automated process, ensuring no loss of connectivity when transiting from one area to another. Fleet LTE also includes access to FleetBroadband’s resilient L-band coverage for unlimited back-up with 99.9% network availability.
On top of meeting Atlantic’s internal business requirements, Fleet LTE supports a happy and motivated workforce by allowing seafarers to maintain contact with friends and family and access online entertainment in their spare time on board. It also offers a separate bandwidth pipe for charterers, whose allowance Atlantic can upgrade and downgrade in line with demand.
Ove Gjerstad, QHSE Manager/ Chartering and Operation, Atlantic Offshore Management AS, said: “Following our positive experience with Fleet LTE on board one of our vessels, we opted to roll the solution out across our entire fleet. Seamless communications across three modes of connectivity provided by one trusted partner mean we can rest assured that our vessels are always connected, with no risk of drop out during transit, no hidden costs and no juggling multiple contracts.”
Scott Middleton, Regional Director North Europe, Inmarsat Maritime, said “Through Fleet LTE, North Sea operators like Atlantic Offshore can meet the ever-growing demand for high-speed crew internet, which is crucial for both regulatory compliance and competitiveness in recruitment. The solution also provides an advantage with charterers, allowing operators to offer their clients a cost-effective onboard connectivity service that does not compromise on quality.”
Launched in 2020, Fleet LTE also covers the Gulf of Mexico, and is part of Inmarsat’s wider investment plans for the maritime and offshore industries. The next step in Inmarsat’s technology roadmap is ORCHESTRA: a unique ‘dynamic mesh network’ combining existing geosynchronous satellites including ELERA (L-band) and Global Xpress (Ka-band) with low-Earth orbit satellites and terrestrial 5G. The network will offer the lowest average latency and highest average speeds available in shipping.
Delivery of marine biofuel oil in the port of Singapore completed
ExxonMobil successfully completed a commercial marine biofuel oil bunkering in the port of Singapore on 1st April 2023. Evergreen Line’s vessel, EVER ULYSSES, received ExxonMobil’s marine biofuel oil blend via a ship-to-ship transfer in Singapore waters before heading to the discharge port.
The marine biofuel oil is a combination of a conventional 0.50% sulphur fuel with up to 25% waste-based fatty acid methyl esters (FAME). The resulting blend meets ISO 8217:2017,1 with the exception of FAME content, which complies with EN 14214.2 ExxonMobil is already supplying marine biofuel oil in the Amsterdam-Rotterdam-Antwerp (ARA) region and Singapore, supporting the marine industry’s commitment to reducing GHG emissions.
“We appreciate the unstinting support from Maritime and Port Authority of Singapore (MPA) for our biofuel trial program carried out in collaboration with ExxonMobil and the vessel’s classification society. As one of the major global carriers, we are committed to the decarbonization of maritime shipping. We need to earnestly seek viable solutions to achieve our goal towards carbon-neutrality by 2050,” said Molly Mok, Director of Evergreen Marine (Asia) Pte Ltd.
“We are pleased to collaborate with Evergreen Line for this successful delivery of marine biofuel oil in Singapore,” said Rebecca Monk, Asia Pacific Sales Director, Marine and Aviation, ExxonMobil Asia Pacific Pte Ltd. “ExxonMobil is proud to be providing and improving critical products while working toward IMO targets and helping our customers meet their decarbonization goals. We remain focused on advancing lower GHG emission solutions, including a goal of supplying 200,000 barrels per day of lower GHG emission fuels by 2030.” 3
Details of ExxonMobil’s other marine fuels offers can be found here and to find out more about ExxonMobil’s approach to help reduce greenhouse gas emissions in support of a net-zero future, click here.
Joint LR/Arup study points up many benefits to Canada of investing in green corridors
A new study from global sustainable development consultancy Arup, in partnership with Lloyd’s Register (LR) Maritime Decarbonisation Hub, demonstrates the many benefits that Canada could obtain from investing in infrastructure that would enable the uptake of low and zero emissions shipping fuels.
As Canada faces an unprecedented wildfire season, the urgent need for climate action has become increasingly clear. Decarbonising the shipping sector, which is responsible for about 3 percent of emissions globally, represents an important step towards achieving a sustainable future. However, knowing the best way to start this process remains a challenge.
That’s why a first-of-its-kind study, The Canadian Green Shipping Corridor Assessment, was commissioned by Oceans North, a charity that supports marine conservation and climate action in partnership with Indigenous and coastal communities, and the Vancouver Maritime Centre for Climate. Using case studies, it shows how investing in low and zero emissions fuel infrastructure to create green shipping corridors involving Canadian ports is key to decarbonising the maritime sector.
The study created examples of illustrative fuel production pathways for three Canadian ports: Vancouver, Prince Rupert, and Halifax. The potential development of low and zero-emission fuel uptake across different scenarios was analysed by the LR Maritime Decarbonisation Hub to estimate the size, type and cost of the infrastructure required.
As British Columbia has one of the lowest carbon intensity grids in the world, there is a significant opportunity to produce low carbon fuels such as hydrogen and bio-fuels. The study finds that a 200ktpa green methanol plant in the Port of Vancouver has the capacity to meet 2040 energy demands. It also finds that a carbon capture and storage enabled ammonia plant would be able to meet 2040 energy demands in the Port of Prince Rupert.
In Nova Scotia, the significant offshore wind energy capacity is expected to position the province as a major exporter for low or zero emission fuels. The study finds that a capital investment of up to $500m at the Port of Halifax could allow it to serve as a central hub for supporting and distributing sustainable ammonia-based fuel from large production facilities elsewhere in Nova Scotia.
The investment case for these fuel supply chain projects is made in the report by using Arup’s ‘Total Value’ framework. This demonstrates wider value through the four lenses of natural, economic, financial and social benefits to show that, by taking advantage of its abundant natural and human resources, Canada could become key to eliminating greenhouse gas emissions from maritime transport. This would support the objectives set out in its 2030 Emission Reduction plan, and benefit communities near the ports involved.
Additionally, there are significant economic benefits to investment in sustainable infrastructure. These include helping to minimise the climate transition risk in Canada’s energy and transport sectors, as well as future-proofing jobs and enabling economic growth. Furthermore, it would create opportunities to decarbonise road transport, rail, shipping, aviation and other fuel-consuming sectors by identifying demand aggregation opportunities and unlocking economies of scale.
Jo Balmer, Americas Maritime Business Leader, Arup, said: “Applying Arup’s holistic value framework to green shipping corridors in Canada will be vital to demonstrating how infrastructure for low and zero emissions shipping fuels can deliver benefits to regenerating nature and supporting local communities.”
Ginger Garte, Environmental and Sustainability Director, Americas, Lloyd’s Register, said: “Canada has the mindset, talent, and renewable energy landscape to build a coalition that demonstrates zero-emission shipping. We must now unite stakeholders across the entire port supply chain with green shipping corridors - acting as catalysts to eliminate challenges and develop resilient infrastructure blueprints that optimize the co-benefits of Canada’s unique geology."
Brent Dancey, Director of Marine Climate Action, Oceans North, said: "To ensure a liveable climate future, we need to reduce emissions as much and as fast as possible across all industries,” says. “Green shipping corridors are an important step towards decarbonising the maritime sector, and this report shows Canada could be a leader in this space. It’s up to partners across the port supply chain as well as governments to make good on this opportunity and ensure that the fuels of the future meet the highest global standards for emission reductions.”
Elisabeth Charmley, Executive Director, VMCC, said: “Green shipping corridors present a unique opportunity to drive sustainable climate action on a regional scale, in partnership with likeminded individuals in another port city. As the gateway to the Pacific Northwest, and home to Canada’s largest port, B.C. is ideally positioned to take a leadership role in decarbonising shipping through supply of future fuels and the technology needed to take green shipping corridors from concept to reality.
“This study is an important first step in understanding key barriers and opportunities associated with corridor implementation and maps out possibilities for success.”
Transportation Recovery Fund joins Tankers International VLCC Pool as demand for diverse fleets continues
Tankers International, the world’s largest shipping pool for VLCCs, has announced today that Transportation Recovery Fund (TRF) operated vessel the TRF Horten has joined its specialist VLCC Scrubber Pool.
The TRF Horten (297,638 DWT / Built 2018) was delivered to Tankers International earlier this month. The total size of the Tankers International fleet now stands at 64 VLCCs, and the specialist Scrubber Pool has increased in size to 36 vessels.
The addition of the TRF Horten has reduced the average age for the scrubber pool to seven years, in contrast to the industry average of 10.7 years, which is aligned with Tankers International's mission to replace old and less efficient tonnage with modern, cleaner vessels.
With ownership in 19 ships in the chemical and crude segments, TRF will benefit from a transparent and cost-effective solution to maximise earnings in the spot market through Tankers International’s powerful economies of scale and unparalleled access to relationships and cargoes. TRF will also benefit from more streamlined operations, consistent cash flow, and high-level information sharing associated with Tankers International’s pooling model.
In response to the growing diversification in the VLCC fleet, Tankers International have created a number of sub-pools to reflect unique trading patterns and earning potential to ensure fair sharing of earnings and costs between similar vessel types. For instance, the Tankers International Scrubber Pool functions as a sub-pool operating from a unique financial and commercial perspective while sharing resources across the entire Tankers International fleet.
“The addition of the TRF Horten further improves our pool’s unrivalled strength and depth, delivering clear benefits for TRF and our other pool partners,” Charlie Grey (pictured), CEO of Tankers International, said. “It also represents an exciting opportunity for us to develop a closer relationship with TRF, which offers value to the pool with its knowledge, experience, and expertise.
“TRF’s decision to join the pool is a statement of trust in our ability to adapt to changing markets and ensure that all partners are optimised for the future.”
Michael Aasland, CEO of TRF Ship Management, added: “We applaud Tankers International’s reputation for professionalism, trustworthiness, flexibility and service with its experienced management team and relentless focus on driving value for pool partners. We look forward to improved cash flow and revenue as part of a mutually beneficial partnership that sees strong financial returns in the near and long-term.”
Carbon capture project by Wah Kwong and Qiyao Environ Tec receives AiP from Bureau Veritas
Bureau Veritas (BV) has delivered an Approval in Principle to Wah Kwong Maritime Transport Holdings, a Hong Kong shipowner, and Qiyao Environmental Technology (Qiyao Environ Tec), a subsidiary of Shanghai Marine Diesel Engine Research Institute, for a carbon capture and storage (CCS) project onboard two Wah Kwong vessels.
The AiP, which was delivered at a ceremony held at BV’s Shanghai office (pictured), follows a joint study led by BV, Wah Kwong and Qiyao Environ Tec, which validated the technical feasibility of using CCS technology on existing vessels as a measure to ensure compliance with the IMO’s Carbon Intensity regulation.
The analysis focused on two bulk carriers in Wah Kwong’s fleet and assessed the viability of using CCS technology to upgrade those vessels’ CII ratings.
Based on the specific design parameters of the vessels, Qiyao Environ Tec developed a customised design of a CCS unit for the two vessels. The CCS unit has passed laboratory tests, achieving over 85% CO2 capture from the exhaust gas flow, and is being continuously optimised and upgraded. The system is based on an organic amine solution which extracts CO2 from exhaust gas, before it is cooled into liquid form and stored in a low temperature storage tank.
The study showed that CCS enabled the two vessels to remain compliant by upgrading and maintaining their CII rating at a C level until 2030. It considered all aspects of retrofit space, operational impact, CAPEX and OPEX, as well as the upcoming EU ETS, to assess the future investment and revenue expectations for each vessel.
BV provided comprehensive support for the project, from vessel selection in the early stages of the project, to the design layout of the CCS system on board, certification and cost analysis. BV reviewed the plans according to existing regulations and rules to ensure the safety of the vessels and equipment, and validate that the carbon emission reduction targets are effectively achieved during the operation of the vessels.
The project aims to support the future commercial application of CCS technology in the maritime sector, providing a clear analysis to guide decision-making by ship owners and related parties, especially for older vessels in operation.
Hing Chao, Executive Chairman of Wah Kwong, said: “With regulations such as the IMO’s CII and the EU ETS coming into force for shipping, it is essential to ensure compliance and to reduce the carbon footprint of existing vessels for years to come. Carbon capture and storage technology is one of the net-zero solutions currently available. Wah Kwong takes a holistic approach to sustainability and is proud to work with Bureau Veritas and Qiyao Environmental Technology on this pioneering application of CCS for the maritime sector, which is now validated with the issuance of an AiP. We hope this would encourage further studies or advance implementation of the CCS technology.”
Mr. Jianfu DONG, President at Shanghai Qiyao Environmental Technology Co. Ltd., said: “Carbon capture and storage technology has been available for several decades, notably in industrial projects on shore, but only recently have we started to deploy its considerable potential for the maritime industry. We are proud to receive this Approval in Principle from Bureau Veritas, which confirms the viability of our carbon capture technology as a retrofit solution to reduce CO2 emissions from existing ships. Our hope is that this innovative project will also help spur the development and implementation of CCS technology in shipping more broadly.”
Alex Gregg-Smith, Senior Vice President & Chief Executive, North Asia and China at Bureau Veritas Marine & Offshore, said: “At BV, we are committed to supporting shipping stakeholders in their decarbonisation journeys, helping our clients comply with environmental regulations, implement green solutions onboard, and measure decarbonisation progress. In an era of fast-evolving regulations and technology, the independent expertise of classification societies will help shipowners identify the best solutions for their ships, taking into account the practicalities of fleet operations.
“This project is a great example of collaboration, with all parties coming together to ensure the safe development and deployment of technology that will support more sustainable shipping.”
Maersk to pioneer first container vessel conversion to methanol dual-fuel engine
As the first in the shipping industry, A.P. Moller - Maersk (Maersk) will retrofit an existing ship to a dual-fuel methanol-powered vessel and thereby able to sail on green methanol. The first engine retrofit in the industry is scheduled to be conducted medio 2024 and it is the intent to replicate on sister vessels when going for special survey in 2027.
“We have set an ambitious net-zero emissions target for 2040 across the entire business and have taken a leading role in decarbonising logistics,” says Leonardo Sonzio, Head of Fleet Management and Technology at Maersk. “Retrofitting of engines to run on methanol is an important lever in our strategy.
“With this initiative, we wish to pave the way for future scalable retrofit programs in the industry and thereby accelerate the transition from fossil fuels to green fuels. Ultimately, we want to demonstrate that methanol retrofits can be a viable alternative to newbuildings.”
Maersk has signed an agreement with MAN Energy Solutions (MAN ES) who will retrofit the engine.
“In 2021, we ordered the world’s first methanol-enabled container vessel following a commitment to the principle of only ordering newbuilt vessels that can sail on green fuels,” relates Leonardo Sonzio. “Concurrently, we have explored the potential in retrofitting existing vessels with dual-fuel methanol engines. Having teamed up with MAN ES, we are now ready to demonstrate how retrofitting vessels with methanol dual-fuel capabilities can be done.”
Besides aiming to achieve net-zero in 2040, Maersk has also set tangible near-term targets for 2030 to ensure alignment with the Paris Agreement and Science Based Targets initiative (SBTi) methodology. This translates to a 50% reduction in emissions per transported container in the Maersk Ocean fleet compared to 2020, and furthermore 25% of its container volume will by 2030 be transported using green fuels.
Replacing engine parts and thereby making the engine able to operate on methanol is a rather complex task, but only a part of the larger retrofit operation. For instance, new fuel tanks, fuel preparation room and fuel supply system are also a part of the retrofitting the vessel for green methanol.
“Detailed engineering for the first retrofit is ongoing and the actual implementation will take place in the middle of 2024. Meanwhile, discussions with potential yards are ongoing,” explains Ole Graa Jakobsen, Head of Fleet Technology and responsible for the retrofit project at Maersk.
Maersk is currently operating more than 700 vessels with around 300 of them being owned by Maersk.
UK transport support package for Ukraine includes seafarer training
A new package of UK support, announced by the Transport Secretary this week (21 June), will help Ukraine’s transport system recover from Russia’s illegal invasion.
With access to Ukrainian ports limited due to Putin’s aggression, the UK Government will fund cutting-edge virtual reality training for seafarers in Ukraine. Virtual reality, provided through VR headsets, may be used in maritime training to enable cadets to practice real-life scenarios at sea.
In addition, Ukrainians will be sponsored to take on 3-year cadetships in the UK, benefiting from the country’s globally renowned maritime training to become officers on large vessels like container ships.
The support – welcomed by the Ukrainian Minister for Infrastructure at a bilateral meeting with the Transport Secretary at the Department for Transport on Tuesday – will help protect Ukraine’s seafaring sector, which is valued around the world and plays a pivotal role for grain exports and the wider Ukrainian and global economy.
Similarly, with Ukraine’s skies closed to commercial aircraft, DfT funding will support secondments for Ukrainian Air Traffic Controllers to maintain their skills and training in the UK. This will mitigate the potential long-term impacts of the war on the country’s aviation sector, which the UK has already provided £3.7m to help sustain.
Transport Secretary Mark Harper (pictured, centre) said: “Our support for Ukraine and its people is unwavering, and we’re not going to let Russia’s abhorrent actions sink Ukraine’s great reputation in areas like seafaring.
“By sharing the UK’s world-renowned expertise in aviation and seafaring, we are steadfast in our commitment to ensuring Ukraine’s transport system recovers from Putin’s illegal invasion.”
Speaking at the Ukraine Recovery Conference in London today, the Transport Secretary urged the private sector to consider how they could be part of the historic work of rebuilding a free Ukraine after this conflict.
The Department for Transport’s previous £10m aid for Ukraine’s rail infrastructure has now seen a crucial railway bridge repaired, with several more pre-pack bridges delivered from the UK, alongside hundreds of pieces of essential tools, equipment and materials, including six JCBs which have already been put to use.
Numerous Ukrainian engineers were trained in the UK in the use of the equipment so it could be rapidly deployed on Ukraine’s rail network, which has remained a critical lifeline for the military effort and its grain exports, as well as for evacuees.
The Department has also taken steps to support Ukrainian refugees in the UK. Last week, Roads Minister Richard Holden laid a Statutory Instrument to extend how long Ukrainians can drive in Great Britain on their home country driving licence, helping them work and go about their daily lives.
This funding follows a major package of support announced by the Prime Minister this morning, including $3billion of loan guarantees and a further £240million of bilateral assistance for humanitarian, recovery and reform programmes.
ZIM expands partnership to offer flexible financing solutions to customers
ZIM Integrated Shipping Services Ltd (NYSE: ZIM) announced yesterday the expansion of its partnership with cross-border trade financing platform 40Seas, integrating the 40Seas’ flexible digital financing solution via ZIM’s website as well as Ship4wd’s, ZIM’s award-winning digital freight forwarding subsidiary.
The expanded collaboration demonstrates ZIM’s commitment to transforming traditional shipping practices into the digital era and enhancing customers’ choices by providing them with a seamless digital experience to allow them faster and cheaper access to capital to meet their credit needs. This new service will be rolled out gradually starting in the US, Canada, UK, France, Germany, Italy, Belgium, Netherlands, and Australia, with additional countries added over time.
With 40Seas’ flexible digital financing solution integrated into ZIM and Ship4wd, customers will be able to defer payment for freight charges for a maximum period of 90 days from the invoice date, as well as leverage 40Seas credit line to finance cargo, subject to meeting eligibility requirements.
Against a backdrop of macroeconomic volatility and rising capital costs, SMEs engaged in global commerce are struggling to protect cash flow and drive profits. ZIM and 40Seas aim to support SME importers and exporters to bridge this financial gap. By pioneering the ‘Ship Now, Pay Later’ concept, 40Seas enables exporters to get paid immediately upon shipment, while providing importers with deferred payment options allowing them to boost business growth during the sale cycle without tying up available lines of credit.
ZIM participated in 40Seas’ $11 million seed funding round earlier this year and also provided 40Seas with a credit facility of up to $100 million for expanding its business to exporters and importers.
Eli Glickman, ZIM President & CEO, said: “We are pleased to expand our partnership with 40Seas, which continues to underscore our commitment to providing the most customer-centric service experience, with an embedded solution that will transform the way our global clients access financing, while developing additional streams of revenue that complement our core shipping business. ZIM and 40Seas are firmly aligned on championing digital innovation in the shipping industry, and together, we look forward to pushing boundaries and eradicating financing-related impediments to global commerce.”
Eyal Moldovan, 40Seas Co-founder and CEO, said: “We’re delighted to expand our partnership with ZIM, a market leader that has supported our mission since day one. By combining forces on a trade finance platform like 40Seas, a major carrier like ZIM, and a dynamic digital freight forwarder like Ship4wd, we can make serious headway in the transformation of the global logistics landscape. Additionally, ZIM's extensive cross-border trade expertise, strong market position and close ties with ecosystem players, will be invaluable as we accelerate our global expansion.”
Industry awareness of the significant dangers of onboard battery fires remains dangerously low, warns Stream Marine Technical
Standardised training and regulations should come into force sooner rather than later to reduce the significant safety risks electric car batteries pose to vessels and crews, a panel of industry-leading speakers discussed at a recent webinar held by alternative fuel consultancy service Stream Marine Technical (SMT).
Part of the Stream Marine Group, SMT held the webinar in conjunction with Ship Management International to discuss how the industry can work together to deal with the huge fire risks that batteries in electric cars pose to both life and ship.
Speakers at the webinar included, Tony Int’ Hout (pictured), Director at Stream Marine Technical. Tim Springett, Policy Director, UK Chamber of Shipping, Jan Polderman, Founding Member BlueTack, specialists in marine incident management, and Kelly Malynn, ESG Strategy Lead for Marine, insurers Beazley.
Mr Springett from the UK Chamber of Shipping told delegates that corners of the industry are becoming increasingly concerned over the dangerous fire risks of Lithium-Ion Batteries (LIBs) as the proportion of vehicles powered by LIBs, being carried on Ro-Ro ferries increases. As the vehicles begin to age and the batteries deteriorate, the risk of dangerous fires steadily increases, he explained.
Mr Int’ Hout, from Stream Marine Technical, explained battery fires are normally created from two initiating causes, such as damage to the battery caused by a collision, incorrect charging regime or wrong charging, incorrect installation, a battery being incorrectly stored, or a malfunction of the battery.
Talking about the current training requirements for crews, Mr Int’ Hout, said: “The regulations are not really robust enough yet. Even if you have 85 firefighters onboard, similar to a standard cruise ship, they can respond to the fire very quickly, but the challenge lies with dealing with a battery fire, they are very hard to put out. We do not have enough training in fire safety with any of the alternative fuels that are coming into the industry.”
There have been 387 LIBs fires since 2012, Mr Springett reported. “While this figure is relatively low when you take into account there are 16million electric vehicles globally, there is little training or awareness to ensure crews know what to do when faced with a LIB fire,” he said.
Talking about the dangers, he explained: “When these fires do occur they are much more difficult to put out, compared to other types of fires crews have to put out. The triangle of fire - heat, fuel, oxygen - is the first thing one learns on a fire safety course. But with LIBs there is a tetrahedron of fire. There is an additional effect of a chemical chain reaction. Once the thermal runway starts, that fire is unstoppable. Flames in LIB fires will be pulled towards the nearest energy source.”
“STCW fire safety training is based on completely different types of fires and burning materials, so this is something that should be addressed. The industry should look at what the appropriate requirements for training are going forward."
The IMO is to begin a review of the STCW fire safety training in 2025, but even then it will take two years to complete and then seven years to adopt, warned Mr Springett. The UK Chamber of Shipping is treating the dangers of LIB fires as a priority, he added, and it will be looking at setting out a number of proposals and guidelines that can be turned into legislation, and eventually adopted by the IMO.
.
Mr Polderman, from salvage incident firm BlueTack highlighted the added dangers of toxic fumes and vapours that come from a battery fire, along with the added risk of electrocution.
He said: “We believe the way forward for the industry is to collect data, analyse it, develop new systems or re-develop existing systems, test new ideas – and this is important, test, re-test and test again, develop training for responders and build further on experience.”
Signal expands Tanker Chartering Academy
Diversified shipping services group Signal, whose activities include commercial ship management, software development and investments, has opened up access to its online Tanker Chartering Academy for all.
The free to view 10-module program has been created to explain the entire process of fixing a vessel as well as tanker operations, port disbursements and post-fixture activities. For further details see www.thesignalgroup.com/academy .
The Academy program was initially created to help the fast-growing Signal train its shipping professionals, software engineers, and data scientists to ensure that they understand the fundamentals of the tanker shipping business. It is now being made available to Signal customers, partners and the wider shipping & trading community to provide entry level knowledge.
Signal founder Ioannis Martinos said: “Shipping companies have big digital ambitions, but to deliver on those, they need to attract and onboard talent which often has little or no exposure to our industry. How can you build and deploy helpful solutions if your technologists don’t understand the shipping business?
Having struggled with this in the past, we built a program based on what really happens in the tanker chartering setting. We’ ve had great internal success with it, so we wanted to share with others.”
He added: “Signal was founded with the vision to bring shipping and technology together.”
Over the past five years Signal has taken on over 100 technologists in London and Athens to develop its suite of digital services. The Signal Ocean platform continuously processes and combines streams of private and public data such as AIS, tonnage lists, cargo lists, vessel positions, port costs, port line-ups, emissions and freight rates.
Using advanced algorithms and AI, data is transformed into private and actionable insights on the freight market. Users can track supply, demand and rates in freight markets, optimally match vessels to cargoes, run profitability comparisons, consider CO2 emissions and use Signal’s patented technology to track and forecast vessel movements across the globe.
Tanker Chartering Academy modules:
• Tanker shipping basics
• Introduction to tanker chartering
• Tanker chartering daily routine
• Cargo selection
• Fixing negotiation
• Tanker operations ecosystem
• Tanker operations key actions
• Bunkering function
• Port cost management
• Post fixture operations
NSB invests 600,000 Euros in new ship‐handling simulator
The maritime service company NSB GROUP has assigned Wärtsilä with the technical up‐ grade of the simulator of its NSBacademy. Since 2007 NSB is training Nautical Officers in its own Maritime Training Centre. The retrofit for the technical update began in June and is expected to last three months.
The NSBacademy has two ship‐handling simulators with a field of view of 270° and 180° respectively. Both units are being completely overhauled. The new Wärtsilä Simula‐ tors will include the new version of Navi‐Trainer professional simulation software, the latest NACOS PLATINUM Bridge systems (including multi‐pilot workstation for ECDIS, radar and conning applications) combined with high‐performance visualisation system and modern IBID (Interactive Bridge Information Display) technology, a 55‐inch voyage planning table connected to the main bridge, video and audio recording and playback system and a new sound system.
"We are proud to demonstrate our commitment to officer education and training through this investment in our NSBacademy," says NSB CEO Tim Ponath. "This upgrade will help us practice `what‐if' scenarios to meet our high standards in shipping and our ability to respond and improve in a very personalised way to meet the needs of our customers. The simulator makes it possible to connect different training centres in a way that has never been done be‐ fore. After the first opening in 2007, we now again have a sophisticated stand‐alone training facility."
“The skills shortage is a real issue facing the maritime industry today. Since COVID‐19, many have left the industry and new recruits are not coming in fast enough to replace them. It’s clear we need to be able to get mariners up to speed quickly and ensure they undergo ro‐ bust training to maintain high standards,” said Johan Ekvall, Head of Product Simulation & Training, Wärtsilä. “NSB Group does great work in bridging this gap and delivering enriching training programmes to students across shipping.”
Evgeny Vdovin, Director, Port Optimisation and Simulation, Wärtsilä added: “It's exactly for this reason that we, at Wärtsilä, are pleased to support NSB Group with their commitment to safety, training and education by providing the vital technology that is helping to shape the crews of tomorrow.”
The new simulator has a DNV Standard 0029 for Maritime Training Centres. It can be connected online for training with other training facilities around the world, for example with training partner in the Philippines. Morten Magnil, Trainer at NSBacademy says: “Within the same mission the participants can take part in one scenario from different locations and in different roles, e.g. as tug boat operator. This enables us to make real‐time training sessions possible.”
In addition to the nautical‐technical knowledge, this also trains communication with each other ‐ on the bridge as well as with different players in the connected simulators.
The NSBacademy uses the simulator for the further training of officers, for briefings and familiarisation as well as before promotions, for example to captains. The courses are aimed at both NSB maritime personnel and officers from other companies.
The simulator is located in a signature building on the premises of NSB, which also houses other seminar rooms, the NSB travel office and the NSB canteen, which also caters the trainees of NSBacademy.
Elisabeth Cosmatos appointed President of The Heavy Lift Group
Elisabeth Cosmatos, Managing Director of Cosmatos Group, has been elected President of The Heavy Lift Group (THLG), an international association for specialised heavy transport companies. The appointment was made as part of the executive committee election during the 68th THLG Conference on 5 June 2023.
Taking over from FOX Brasil’s Murilo Caldana, Cosmatos becomes THLG’s first female president. She is joined on the executive committee by Rhenus Projects’ Colin d’Abreo, Alessio Bianchi of DCS Liburnus, Vesta Polska’s Natalya Kulagina and new addition Marianne Blechinberg of Hacklin Logistics.
“THLG’s decision to appoint a female president as part of a majority-female executive committee demonstrates the Group’s commitment to gender equality and women’s empowerment in the heavy-lift industry,” said Cosmatos. “Together, we will continue to lead THLG along the successful and innovative path that has made it a pioneer in project-cargo networking.”
Having been part of the THLG executive committee for over six years, Cosmatos was previously responsible for the Group’s marketing, corporate image and common identity. She brings over 25 years’ experience in shipping, forwarding and logistics to her new role as Group President.
Commenting further on her appointment as President, Cosmatos said: “While I’m not the kind of person to shy away from change, I also have great respect for the tradition and prestige of The Heavy Lift Group as it was introduced to me almost 20 years ago. As President, I will put all my efforts into maintaining the Group’s high standards while working with dignity, transparency and passion. I would like to thank the previous executive committee members for dedicating their time to the THLG cause and working tirelessly to ensure the Group achieves far more than standard networking practices.”
Founded in 1987 by a consortium of western-European heavy-lift operators in anticipation of the Single European Market, THLG has since expanded to include companies from North and South America, Asia, Africa and other parts of Europe. Its members specialise in large-scale industrial project forwarding, crane operations, machinery installation and rigging, vessel chartering, port operations and more. As a group, THLG strives to provide the highest quality of services to clients worldwide.
De-risking the carriage of lithium-ion batteries: TT Club
Rapid development of battery technology and the uncertainties created by these developments, particularly concerning safety when the energy packs are being transported require the logistics industry to have a clear understanding of the dangers which can include fire, explosions and toxic gas emissions. Moreover, there needs to be increased efforts to minimise the risks, and if necessary, make sure there is an effective response to any catastrophic event.
Alarmist reports in the media can overstate the number of incidents involving electric vehicles. Indeed Peregrine Storrs-Fox, Risk Management Director at insurance mutual TT Club points out that “Lithium-ion (li-ion) battery fires are not an everyday occurrence. But when thermal runaway does happen, the result is release of toxic gases such as carbon monoxide and hydrogen cyanide, a very high temperature fire and can spread very fast.”
The release of toxic fumes may be the first alert, but fire with temperatures higher than 1,000degs centigrade can be reached in a matter of seconds and, as the mix of chemicals and metals ignites, devastation can ensue.
In keeping with its mission to extend awareness and achieve a united front, TT Club was delighted to be part of a forum of interested parties which was held recently in London. Much was revealed by the speakers and valuable debate ensued. “Supply chain players including ship owners, carriers, forwarders, terminal and port operators and insurers are engaged with these debates. Indeed, the maritime regulator IMO has its guidance for carriage of these batteries under serious review,” says Storrs-Fox.
“But we need to bring manufacturers of EVs and the batteries that power them actively into the debate. Their ambitions for the development of more powerful, lighter and diverse battery cells must not be allowed to outstrip prioritising safety concerns surrounding their future transportation around the globe.”
Such concerns regarding the battery packs within electric vehicles (EVs) have been raised in the US and the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) has carried out a study. The forum heard that EVs were reported to have incurred fewer fire incidents than internal combustion engine (ICE) cars. However, there are a few provisos to be highlighted here – not least that there are far fewer electric cars on the road than ICE vehicles.
Secondly it is understood that newer batteries are less likely to ignite or explode than used batteries, effectively the older the li-ion unit, the greater the chance of an incident. As a result, it is not clear how the batteries will perform through the intended life, given that the switch to EV’s is only now gathering pace and most battery packs are new.
Regarding the rapid spread of fire, Eva Mckiernan, the technical director at firefighting consultancy Jensen Hughes highlighted the dangers of thermal runaway as the most pressing issue after ignition. She explained that these energy packs are thermo-dynamically unstable. When the batteries are damaged, they can release hot and poisonous gases into containers or onto car decks of ro-ro ships and other vehicle carriers within seconds. When the batteries explode those extraordinary temperatures can be reached.
“Thermal runaway occurs when the heat and chemical reactions reach a certain level, they are effectively self-sustaining and very difficult to extinguish,” she added.
Of course, EVs are just one use for li-ion batteries, which can be found in a variety of goods including e-bikes and scooters, as well as computers and mobile phones. All of these goods are transported with batteries in containers. Whilst transported as new, it may be reasonable to expect appropriate packaging, although state of charge is variable, used and damaged batteries present considerable uncertainty for the transport supply chain.
“Currently li-ion batteries are classified as one of four UN numbers, depending on power output or the weight of lithium in them and whether they are contained within devices or shipped separately. All four are Class 9 in the IMDG Code - Miscellaneous dangerous substances and articles,” explained Storrs-Fox. “Class 9 is the least hazardous ranking and dates from a change in IMDG Class from 4.3, which was made in the late eighties. Clearly there is a need for a radical review of this classification, as the size and energy capacity of these batteries has altered dramatically since then. As has the volume being carried in container ships.”
This raises concern that li-ion batteries are not classified as sufficiently hazardous and the range of potential Special Provisions increases complexity and uncertainty. All this may have serious ramifications when a container is being accepted for shipment or a ship stowage plan is being compiled.
Storrs-Fox concludes: “In addressing the commercial opportunity in the answering the agenda to move away from fossil fuels, there needs to be urgent engagement from manufacturers and OEMs to resolve the justifiable concerns of the logistics industry – ahead of regulatory strengthening.”
Sailors’ Society offers full virtual conference experience for 2023 cadets
Sailors’ Society is expecting more than 6,000 students to benefit from its 2023 Wellness at Sea Maritime Schools’ Conferences, designed especially for the current intake of cadets.
This year, the leading maritime welfare charity has virtual events covering North Asia, Southeast Asia, Africa and, for the first time, the UK’s maritime colleges.
The conferences explore the all-important subject of wellness and mental health with a focus on key and current issues facing today’s seafarers and include interactive sessions and practical advice as well as presentations from key industry leaders and influencers.
Sailors’ Society CEO, Sara Baade, said: “The 2023 conferences build on the success of last year’s events, but this year there is even more to see and do with a new virtual conference centre.
“In a first, Sailors’ Society has partnered with FrontM to deliver a full virtual experience to our cadets. From a lobby and auditorium to a selection of industry booths - a virtual space mimicking a physical booth at a trade show or exhibition, cadets can enjoy the full conference experience on their laptops and phones and even browse in advance.
“We know that cadets are tomorrow’s workforce and future industry leaders, so these unique events are a must for any maritime student, giving them the tools and knowledge to help manage their wellbeing as they prepare for a career at sea.”
Kiran Venkatesh, CEO and co-founder of FrontM said: “We cannot think of a more fitting way to empower the upcoming digital seafaring generation than to collaborate with Sailors’ Society for bringing their highly impactful Wellness at Sea conferences via onship, the Maritime Superapp platform”.
In 2022, more than 5,000 cadets attended virtual conferences in India, the Philippines and Africa, more than 95% saying they should form a key element in their syllabus.
Registration for the North Asia Conference - sponsored by Seaspan and North Standard – is now open. The virtual event on August 7 includes sessions on dealing with diversity, career opportunities and mental health at sea. For more information go to sailors-society.org/msc23
Green corridors, cutting edge technologies lead the discussion at the ABS UK National Committee
ABS brought together maritime industry leaders from the United Kingdom to discuss the latest advances in sustainability and transformational technologies.
Attendees at the UK National Committee Meeting heard how the ABS-classed fleet had grown to 280 million gross tons and secured the number one position in global orderbook share.
“ABS is leading the maritime industry in decarbonization and sustainability solutions, and we have a deep understanding of how shipping will play a pivotal role as an enabler of the global green energy transition,” said Christopher J. Wiernicki, ABS Chairman, President and CEO. “Our UK committee members are an influential team, providing powerful insight to keep our industry in the forefront of the clean energy transition.”
Joining the meeting was guest Mikal Bøe, Chairman and CEO of Core Power, a UK-based product development company specializing in scalable new nuclear power technology for ocean transport and heavy industry.
“I am very honoured to join ABS and this distinguished committee to talk about new nuclear technologies,” said Bøe. “There is renewed interest in the UK and globally around nuclear power and its potential to play a significant role in the decarbonization of the shipping industry. It is critical that we work together as stakeholders to facilitate advancements and modernize rules and regulations to realize a positive future with clean, safe, nuclear energy.”
The committee also heard from Ramin Hassan, Deputy Director Shipbuilding in the Department for International Trade, part of UK Defence and Security Exports.
Panos Koutsourakis, ABS Vice President, Global Sustainability, shared a report detailing decarbonisation programs and ABS’ advanced sustainability services. Committee members heard how emerging regional and global green ecosystems, involving green shipping corridors, green shipbuilding and labelling and energy efficiency technology retrofits promise to advance marine and offshore sustainability.
Stamatis Fradelos, ABS Vice President, Regulatory Affairs, presented a comprehensive report on the regulatory landscape, with a specific focus on recent amendments to the European Union Emissions Trading System (EU ETS).
“ABS brings us together to strengthen our cooperation and explore solutions in today’s unique and challenging landscape,” said Graham Westgarth, Chairman of V.Group and ABS UK National Committee Chairman. “Our committee is comprised of highly talented leaders with significant industry experience that provide diverse perspectives to support ABS in its mission to develop solutions and services that will help us meet these challenges while continuing to seek ongoing improvements in safety.”
RINA approves AURELIA’s green retrofit solution for Newcastlemax bulk carrier
RINA has awarded an Approval in Principle (AiP) for a green retrofit package solution designed by the innovative naval architecture designer, AURELIA, in partnership with Econowind, Wattlab and Vertom. Using a series of innovative solutions, the retrofit design meets CO2 reduction targets in compliance with CII and speeds the path to decarbonisation for the shipping industry.
AURELIA’s retrofit package solution can be applied to almost any kind of vessel, whatever their purpose or cargo. It does not interfere with operational aspects, such as loading and offloading cargo.The solution incorporates rigid sails, solar panels, batteries, optimised weather-routing, and a smart decision support system developed by Hydrographic and Marine Consultants (HMC) to dramatically reduce emissions of an existing Newcastlemax bulk carrier.
For the Newcastlemax bulk carrier, the challenge was to meet EEXI and the CII index for the reduction of CO2emissions. The 203,000 DWT bulk carrier has a length of 300 m, a beam of 50 m and a range of 24,500 nautical miles.
AURELIA developed a CII calculator used to assess the status of the vessel and give an overview of what was needed to comply with the CII index based on five annual sailings between Brazil and China.
The resulting solution proposes two investment steps for shipowners looking to comply with the CII index.The first, to be done in 2023, involves the installation of Solar Flatrack technology, batteries, and the SafePlan software developed by HMC. The combination of such technologies will aim to reduce the hours in service of the auxiliary engines. Any surplus energy not consumed by the vessel is used to charge the battery bank.
This first stage of the retrofit of the auxiliary engine, reduces the total CO2 emissions by 6.1%, or 3305 tons, and MGO fuel of the auxiliary engine by 97.5%.
The second stage of investment, required by 2025, includes the installation of six rigid, 30m high sails to provide supporting wind propulsion, along with switching from fossil to biofuels. The added wind propulsion provides power to the vessel and lowers the load of the main engine (2T), thereby reducing fuel consumption and was shown to reach 1237 kW at 67% operation per day.
With the use of biofuels to further lower emissions, this investment stage reduces CO2 emissions by 10.3% or 5560 tons of CO2 per year.
The standard dimensions and mounting method of a 20ft container and the minimum height make the model applicable to not only bulk carriers but also general cargo.
A leader in sea transport and pioneer in CO2 emission reduction, Vertom joined the retrofit project with the general cargo vessel MV Anna. Since 2022, Vertomhas already started the retrofit process for efficiency improvements and carbon reduction of MV Anna by installing two 16 m Econowind VentiFoil on the bow.
For a more powerful and complete retrofit, Solar Flatrackare being tested this year and will be added to existing Vertom vessels in 2023, showing that this combined solution is possible not only for bulk carriers with available space decks but also for general cargo vessels.
The Solar Flatrack is a modular solar energy system, that comprises movable, stackable, thin plates with integrated solar panels and inverters and acts as a sustainable generator.
Day of the Seafarer 2023: A message from Wallem
Today, on the Day of the Seafarer 2023 (June 25), Wallem would like to express its gratitude to the many talented men and women worldwide whose unwavering commitment to their profession helps to keep ships sailing and goods moving, writes John-Kaare Aune (pictured), CEO, Wallem.
Of course, we are particularly proud and appreciative of the 7,000 seafarers in our employment. Our success as a company depends on you – just as the success of the maritime industry depends on the 1.9 million individuals who make up the global seafaring workforce.
Indeed, the importance of the human element in maintaining a functioning supply chain cannot be overstated; and yet the maritime industry is facing an employment crisis born of a failure to attract and retain crew in sufficient numbers.
Collectively, ship owners, charterers and managers can do more to ensure personnel feel happy, safe, and respected on board their vessels. To this end, we must promote diversity and inclusion within the workforce – an area in which Wallem is proud to be an industry leader.
Another priority for any forward-thinking maritime company is investment in digital technology. Nevertheless, it is important to remember that, for all they offer in terms of safety, efficiency and sustainability enhancements, AI-based tools are intended to support – not replace – human expertise.
On the topic of sustainability, this year’s Day of the Seafarer reflects the International Maritime Organization’s World Maritime Theme for 2023 – MARPOL at 50 – Our commitment goes on – and examines seafarers’ contribution to protecting the marine environment.
While those working at sea have a duty to respect the marine environment and protect it to the best of their abilities, the responsibility lies with their employers to provide solutions that facilitate eco-friendly ship operations – and to train seafarers in their effective deployment.
However, as the Mission to Seafarers’ latest Seafarers Happiness Index identifies, the maritime workforce faces a lack of access to relevant, structured training programmes. Recognising that competent crew are essential to safe and sustainable ship operations, Wallem takes training seriously.
Our network of training centres ensures our seafarers can perform their jobs to the highest of standards, while our comprehensive performance-management programme allows them to maintain these standards through continual appraisals, skill-gap analyses, and performance tracking.
We also foster a culture of empowerment built on engagement and responsibility, encouraging our personnel to take ownership of – and pride in – their work. Our e-learning platform, which is accessible anywhere at any time, offers crew opportunities for ongoing self-improvement.
On this Day of the Seafarer, we acknowledge the vital contribution seafarers make to the industry and reiterate our commitment to ensuring our colleagues at sea are happy, safe, and equipped to face the challenges of shipping now and in the years ahead – because, as we often say here at Wallem, the future is human.
Executive Crew Welfare Roundtable in Singapore yields wide range of solutions and priorities for seafarer welfare
To coincide with International Day of the Seafarer, maritime welfare charity The Mission to Seafarers has published an industry report containing the preliminary outcomes from the Executive Roundtable event held during Singapore Maritime Week 2023. The results - which include over 100 proposed solutions, ideas and initiatives - highlight the breadth of opportunities to improve seafarer welfare.
The aim of this forum was to identify effective solutions to the challenges faced by seafarers and drive meaningful change in seafarer welfare. Building upon data from the Seafarers Happiness Index, with supporting insights from sponsors Standard Club part of NorthStandard, Idwal, and Inmarsat, The Mission to Seafarers facilitated the roundtable event to address five crucial areas that significantly impact the lives of seafarers:
• Access to shore leave and connection with loved ones
• Mental health and wellbeing
• Package, security, diversity, career progression
• Living and working conditions
• Support and management on board and ashore
The roundtable session provided a platform for constructive discussions and knowledge sharing among participants, bringing together industry leaders, ship owners, managers, and charterers, who engaged in wide-ranging discussions over their shared experiences of seafarers’ needs, and the proposal of innovative solutions to improve seafarers' overall wellbeing, safety, and quality of life.
Over 100 solutions were identified during the event, organised into the five main areas explored. These solutions cover a wide range of areas, from standardising shore leave policies and advancing communication technologies to providing mental health resources and fostering a supportive work environment. They also address issues of fair treatment, career progression, living conditions, and effective support and management on board and ashore.
Ben Bailey, Director of Programme at The Mission to Seafarers, said: “It was truly inspiring to witness the diverse range of ideas and opportunities that were put forward to help address and bridge the gaps in seafarers’ needs to enhance the experience of working at sea. When confronted with the immense challenges that seafarers encounter, it can often seem daunting to identify what more can be done to make a difference. However, our report from the roundtable held at Singapore Maritime Week is brimming with innovative ideas and actionable steps that can be taken.
“Whether by The Mission to Seafarers or others, there are ideas present in this report that every organisation can contribute towards and embrace, fostering a collective effort to better support the dedicated men and women who work tirelessly at sea."
Steven Jones, founder of the Seafarers Happiness Index commented: “As we celebrate International Day of the Seafarer, we are seeing change driven by Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) frameworks. This means every part of the industry is compelled to make improvements. The focus of the Executive Roundtable on Crew Welfare and the follow-up activities are focused on solutions. Finding the answers to the questions that seafarers are asking and finding the ways of making every aspect of life at sea better. This initiative is about having the imagination, vision and determination to fix the ills which are so damaging to seafarers, and we thank all those who have shared their insights, experience and enthusiasm."
George Haysom, CCO at Idwal, added: “Idwal was delighted to play a part in this highly productive session with top industry executives taking time out of a very hectic week to workshop ideas for solutions to some of the main seafarer wellbeing issues facing the industry. We are keen to keep momentum going and excited to share our own data to bring more transparency of on-board welfare conditions to the debate. We look forward to our involvement in the next developments as they reach a more action-focused stage.”
The Mission to Seafarers is committed to assessing each solution and determining its feasibility. While some ideas may already be in progress, others may require further exploration and collaboration. The Mission’s focus will be to translate the findings into actionable work streams, underpinned by an effective action plan, strong partnerships, and targeted goals, which will give us the best possible chance of delivering the tangible outcomes that will improve the lives of seafarers.
In the coming weeks, the proposed solutions will undergo careful review to determine the most suitable approaches for addressing the identified issues. A position document will be developed to evaluate these proposed fixes, and individuals interested in specific areas will be invited to participate in the implementation process.
The Mission to Seafarers intends to host an online forum to make further progress, as well as in-person meetings during London International Shipping Week (LISW) in September 2023. These initiatives aim to facilitate continued collaboration, share progress updates, and foster engagement among stakeholders. Additionally, plans are underway to return to Singapore in 2024 to assess the progress made and drive the project forward.
ISWAN launches survey to understand the impact of decarbonisation on seafarers
Launched on today’s Day of the Seafarer, ISWAN’s new survey seeks to understand the impact that the rapid technological changes to decarbonise maritime are having on seafarers’ job satisfaction and wellbeing at sea.
In recent years, seafaring has undergone huge technological change, as the maritime sector begins to respond to the climate emergency and the urgent need to decarbonise shipping. Seafarers are at the heart of this transformation and are being called upon to rapidly adapt to operating new technological systems onboard and dealing with the challenges of working with new and often potentially hazardous fuels.
The drive to decarbonise brings with it the enormous challenges of ensuring that seafarers have the training and skills that they need to manage new technologies and fuels safely. A recent study commissioned by the Maritime Just Transition Task Force found that up to 800,000 seafarers could require additional training to handle alternative fuels and technologies by the mid-2030s.
It is, however, crucial that seafarers’ wellbeing is not overlooked amidst the urgent imperatives to upskill seafarers and to meet environmental targets. The rapid technological changes in maritime come at a time when seafarers have already faced unprecedented levels of challenge: the COVID-19 pandemic, the crew change crisis and the lack of shore leave have all added additional pressures to what was already a highly demanding and often stressful profession. These factors are already leaving some seafarers to seek alternative careers on shore, contributing to a growing recruitment and retention crisis in the shipping industry.
From contact with seafarers through its helplines and regional casework, the International Seafarers’ Welfare and Assistance Network (ISWAN) is concerned that the changes that the maritime sector is undergoing in order to achieve net zero carbon by 2050 could be placing additional stress on seafarers’ mental health and potentially further eroding their wellbeing at work. In response, ISWAN is launching a new survey that seeks to better understand the impact that the adoption of new decarbonising technologies and the associated inspection regimes are having on the welfare of both seafarers and onshore staff.
As well as understanding the difference – whether positive or negative – that technological change is making to working in maritime, the survey also seeks to gain insight from seafarers and shore-based staff into how shipping companies and crewing agents can best support them to adapt to the rapid pace of change.
Chirag Bahri, ISWAN’s International Operations Manager, said: “This year, IMO’s Day of the Seafarer focuses on seafarers’ central role in protecting the marine environment. Nowhere is this more apparent than in the vital role seafarers play in implementing the wide-reaching changes that will be needed for the maritime industry to reach zero carbon. However, this cannot be at the expense of seafarers’ wellbeing.
“ISWAN’s new survey aims to shed light on how the shipping industry can give seafarers the support they need to put into practice the technological changes that will be needed to meet international decarbonisation goals. This will be crucial in ensuring that the maritime industry can recruit and retain the skilled and motivated crew that they will need to operate the zero-carbon global fleet of the future.”
ISWAN’s survey can be accessed here, and is open to all seafarers and shore-based staff.
ISWAN launches survey to understand the impact of decarbonisation on seafarers
Launched on today’s Day of the Seafarer, ISWAN’s new survey seeks to understand the impact that the rapid technological changes to decarbonise maritime are having on seafarers’ job satisfaction and wellbeing at sea.
In recent years, seafaring has undergone huge technological change, as the maritime sector begins to respond to the climate emergency and the urgent need to decarbonise shipping. Seafarers are at the heart of this transformation and are being called upon to rapidly adapt to operating new technological systems onboard and dealing with the challenges of working with new and often potentially hazardous fuels.
The drive to decarbonise brings with it the enormous challenges of ensuring that seafarers have the training and skills that they need to manage new technologies and fuels safely. A recent study commissioned by the Maritime Just Transition Task Force found that up to 800,000 seafarers could require additional training to handle alternative fuels and technologies by the mid-2030s.
It is, however, crucial that seafarers’ wellbeing is not overlooked amidst the urgent imperatives to upskill seafarers and to meet environmental targets. The rapid technological changes in maritime come at a time when seafarers have already faced unprecedented levels of challenge: the COVID-19 pandemic, the crew change crisis and the lack of shore leave have all added additional pressures to what was already a highly demanding and often stressful profession. These factors are already leaving some seafarers to seek alternative careers on shore, contributing to a growing recruitment and retention crisis in the shipping industry.
From contact with seafarers through its helplines and regional casework, the International Seafarers’ Welfare and Assistance Network (ISWAN) is concerned that the changes that the maritime sector is undergoing in order to achieve net zero carbon by 2050 could be placing additional stress on seafarers’ mental health and potentially further eroding their wellbeing at work. In response, ISWAN is launching a new survey that seeks to better understand the impact that the adoption of new decarbonising technologies and the associated inspection regimes are having on the welfare of both seafarers and onshore staff.
As well as understanding the difference – whether positive or negative – that technological change is making to working in maritime, the survey also seeks to gain insight from seafarers and shore-based staff into how shipping companies and crewing agents can best support them to adapt to the rapid pace of change.
Chirag Bahri, ISWAN’s International Operations Manager, said: “This year, IMO’s Day of the Seafarer focuses on seafarers’ central role in protecting the marine environment. Nowhere is this more apparent than in the vital role seafarers play in implementing the wide-reaching changes that will be needed for the maritime industry to reach zero carbon. However, this cannot be at the expense of seafarers’ wellbeing.
“ISWAN’s new survey aims to shed light on how the shipping industry can give seafarers the support they need to put into practice the technological changes that will be needed to meet international decarbonisation goals. This will be crucial in ensuring that the maritime industry can recruit and retain the skilled and motivated crew that they will need to operate the zero-carbon global fleet of the future.”
ISWAN’s survey can be accessed here, and is open to all seafarers and shore-based staff.
IMO-founded World Maritime University marks 40th anniversary
Over four decades, the World Maritime University (WMU) in Malmö, Sweden, has developed into a world centre of excellence in postgraduate maritime and ocean education, research, and professional training. The University, established by the International Maritime Organization (IMO), counts more than 5,800 alumni from 170 countries and territories. Many hold senior positions in maritime administrations around the world, testament to the University's mission to build an extensive network of well-qualified, highly educated maritime experts, particularly in developing nations.
To mark the 40th anniversary, a morning of celebrations kicked off an international Conference on Maritime and Ocean Sustainability last week in Malmö.
IMO's Secretary-General, Kitack Lim, himself a graduate of WMU, highlighted the University's achievements and reflected on his own experiences at WMU.
"I am sure I can speak for all of us WMU alumni when I say that time spent studying at WMU has a profound impact on our lives – not just in terms of the studies completed but also the connections made. Our life experiences in the city of Malmö and WMU are ingrained in our hearts and minds – something we take with us wherever we go in the world and in our careers," he said.
He added: "The mighty international network of WMU graduates is a great force for good in the world. Those who continue to work as experts for the benefit of the international maritime community will help ensure that our beautiful ocean is passed on to future generations."
Thanking the many generous supporters of WMU over the past 40 years, Mr. Lim said: "The success of the World Maritime University would not be possible without the support of the host City of Malmö and the Government of Sweden – IMO and the wider maritime community thank you with deepest gratitude. And I wish to express my appreciation to all the citizens of Malmö who have been generous and polite, always showing their kindness and support to WMU and its students.
"My sincerest thanks also go to the all the generous donors, private and public. Their financial, fellowships and in-kind support ensure that the University continues to be one of the cornerstones of IMO's capacity-building mission," he said.
Dr. Cleopatra Doumbia-Henry, WMU's outgoing President, said: "The picture today, as we mark our Ruby Anniversary, is very different – in addition to the Malmö-based MSc, we have outreach MSc teaching in China; five distance-learning programmes; and a thriving PhD programme. The United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) since the year 2009, continues to recognize the importance of the World Maritime University of the International Maritime Organization, as a centre of excellence for maritime education, research and capacity building."
Many WMU alumni attended the celebrations and Conference.
DP World signs deal to double capacity at Indonesia’s Belawan container terminal
DP World is set to commence operations at Indonesia’s Belawan New Container Terminal (BNCT), after finalising an agreement with the Indonesia Investment Authority (INA) and Pelindo to manage the terminal and begin a major expansion.
The strategic partnership between the Indonesia Investment Authority (INA), Indonesian government-owned port operator Pelindo, and DP World, will create Indonesia’s most direct link with the Malacca Strait, one of the world’s busiest shipping routes.
The agreement was signed by Sultan Ahmed Bin Sulayem, Group Chairman and CEO of DP World, Arif Suhartono, President Director of PT Pelabuhan Indonesia (Persero), and Ridha Wirakusumah, CEO of Indonesia Investment Authority.
In the longer term, the agreement aims to increase BNCT’s capacity to 1.4 million TEUs, up from 600,000 TEUs currently. BNCT will also aim to attract more direct calls, reducing North Sumatra’s reliance on regional hub ports to access regional and global markets.
The BNCT currently serves as a local hub for the neighbouring provinces in Sumatra. The expansion and modernisation programme will strengthen its position as a major trade and logistics gateway in the Malacca Strait.
Alongside modernising maritime infrastructure, DP World will also work with its partners to connect other terminals and small ports on the Island of Sumatra to further realise the BNCT’s role in reducing container logistics costs within Northern Sumatra.
Minister of State-Owned Enterprises, Erick Thohir, said: "As directed by President Joko Widodo, there is always strategic value for equity and acceleration of economic growth in the regions and nationally through port development, including this new container terminal at the Port of Belawan which is believed to support downstream to maximize exports in new ways and also accelerate the economy in North Sumatra which continues to grow. This is in accordance with the objectives of the Terminal port development which will strengthen the national port industry ecosystem, as well as the competitiveness of Indonesian ports as strategic trade routes in Southeast Asia and internationally."
Sultan Ahmed Bin Sulayem, Group Chairman and CEO of DP World, said: "We are proud to help Indonesia expand the Belawan New Container Terminal and support its ambitions to develop the economy of Sumatra through infrastructure. By investing in cutting-edge sustainable technologies, world-class training and the highest standards of health and safety, we aim to eliminate inefficiency and enable the flow of trade between Indonesia and the world."
Arif Suhartono, President Director of PT Pelabuhan Indonesia (Persero), said: "Today's Shareholder Agreement is a significant milestone and follows the signing of the Master Agreement in August 2022. This has been a long and complex process, but I’m delighted that the agreement is now a reality thanks to the hard work and collaboration of all parties, I am optimistic that this agreement will be a catalyst for the further development of the BNCT as a world-class, connected and fully integrated container terminal that is the foundation for increased trade and a brighter future for our exporters, downstream industries and people. The realization of the Belawan Investment and Operations collaboration represents business expansion and strategic partnership, which are key pillars of our 2023 roadmap. This collaboration is also proof that after the merger, the level of investor confidence in Pelindo has increased."
Ridha Wirakusumah, CEO of INA, said: "INA's investment in Belawan New Container Terminal serves as a crucial step towards positioning Indonesia as a prominent maritime axis, and key player in the global logistics industry. This transformational project supports Indonesia's economic growth and advances its maritime sector, becoming an important role in driving economic growth in Indonesia."
BV Solutions M&O expands into South Korea to support increasing demand in Asian markets
Bureau Veritas Solutions Marine & Offshore (BV Solutions M&O), the marine and offshore technical advisory component of Bureau Veritas Group, a world leader in testing, inspection, and certification, has established a location in South Korea to support increasing demand for its services.
The new offices will expand the development of the company’s marine and offshore advisory and consultancy services and provide a local presence close to BV Solutions M&O’s growing customer base in the region, which is forecast to grow approximately 20% for 2024.
The expansion means that highly skilled engineers will deliver services to customers on the ground. Specialist structural analysts will provide a wide range of services including finite element analysis, structural and fatigue analysis, and noise and vibration assessments. Reporting and analysis for elastic shaft alignment will also be available. Additional specialists in risk assessments and safe studies for Korea’s major shipyards, and in support of domestic wind power projects, will further enhance BV Solutions M&O’s local market offering.
Paul Shrieve, President, BV Solutions M&O, said: “The Increasing customer demand for on-the-ground support services, the opportunities to boost our current market segments and the potential to develop new ventures make South Korea a strategically sound option for our continued growth.
"We are excited and eager to support Korean shipyards, local equipment suppliers and shipping companies as their technical advisory, asset management and assurance solutions partner.”
Stella Maris calls for more collaboration to support seafarers as Ukraine war continues
Global maritime network Stella Maris has launched the latest version of its Life at Sea report, which focuses on the exceptional work its port chaplains have done and continue to do to support seafarers and families impacted by the war in Ukraine.
The Stella Maris Life at Sea report 2022: Kindness amid conflict contains poignant yet inspiring stories of how Stella Maris’ chaplains have made a vital difference to many seafarers and families facing hardship and desperation. Stella Maris offered safe housing for Ukrainian refugees, deliver humanitarian relief, and reunite families.
Stella Maris, working in partnership with the shipping industry, has so far provided £150,000 in grants to 300 Ukrainian seafarers and their families over the last year.
Stella Maris CEO Tim Hill MBE said: “From the day war broke out, Stella Maris has been on the ground supporting seafarers and their families facing an unprecedented crisis. Today, our team remain in the port city of Odesa, doing everything possible to stand with those who need help.”
He added, “As the conflict in Ukraine continues, there’s an urgent need to keep supporting seafarers. We are calling on the shipping industry to step up its support for Ukrainian seafarers and their families by partnering with Stella Maris in the coming year. By contributing to our Centenary Emergency Fund, supporting a seafarers’ counselling service and donating to the work of our team in Odesa, industry partners can show their commitment to Ukrainian seafarers – and demonstrate kindness amid conflict.”
Stella Maris said in the coming year, funds will be needed to:
• Continue providing financial support to out-of-work Ukrainian seafarers and their families facing economic hardship, and;
• Grow the mental health counselling service it established in 2022, to provide relief for the increasing numbers of men, women and children suffering trauma and poor mental health because of the war.
The Centenary Emergency Fund also needs support to provide crisis help to seafarers of all nationalities and backgrounds, around the world, in cases of abandonment, hospitalisation, death at sea and piracy.
To support the Centenary Emergency Fund – or donate to the general work of Stella Maris – contact Ian Stokes, Head of Corporate Engagement. 07732 682090 ian.stokes@stellamarismail.org
ICS network launches global campaign to drive seafarer recruitment
The International Chamber of Shipping (ICS) launches today a video titled ‘An Adventurous Spirit’, signifying the start of a global campaign to address the seafarer shortage.
‘An Adventurous Spirit’ is the result of collaboration between ICS and its network of members to produce a resource that the whole shipping industry can use in its recruitment efforts. The 10-minute video was produced using first-party testimonials gathered from current seafarers who shared insight into what their roles entail, speaking openly about the benefits and challenges of working at sea.
An estimated 90,000 STCW (International Convention on Standards of Training, Certification and Watchkeeping for Seafarers) certified officers are needed by 2026 to operate the world merchant fleet. ‘An Adventurous Spirit’ has been created in response to this challenge to urgently recruit more people to the industry and keep global trade moving.
Nirmalesh Chandra Nirmal (pictured), 2nd Officer, Fleet Management Ltd, Hong Kong, SAR, who features in the film, said: “It was an honour to be involved with the making of ‘An Adventurous Spirit’. As a seafarer myself I know what a fantastic career this can be, and I am passionate about helping other people see this too. Seafaring is a challenging career, but the rewards are great. You will have opportunities for growth that can see you climb the career ladder, progressing to more senior roles at sea or transitioning to roles on land and making friends and memories that will last you a lifetime.”
Alongside the full-length 10-minute 45 seconds video is a 2-minute version created for use on social media. Multiple formats have been created so that the video is a flexible resource and can be used by industry across different platforms, tailoring it to their own recruitment efforts.
Kathryn Neilson, Director, Merchant Navy Training Board, which is charged with promoting seafaring as a career in the UK, said: “Highlighting the numerous exciting opportunities open to all those considering a new career path is key if we are to attract more people into the Maritime industry. This video will be a hugely valuable resource in the promotion of seafaring careers and will showcase the excellent and unique benefits a career at sea provides, from experiencing life on board with international crew to travelling the world.”
The release of the video coincides with the Shaping the Future of Shipping - Seafarer 2050 summit taking place in Manila today. This significant summit, that was attended by the President of the Philippines, Ferdinand Marcos Jr, Director-General of the International Labour Organization (ILO) Gilbert H. Houngbo, and industry leaders was dedicated to examining the elements required for a successful transformation of seafarers’ roles to meet the needs of shipping in the future. Topics discussed included education and training, building capacity and resilience, recruitment and retention of seafarers, and ensuring that any transition is safe, equitable and human-centric.
Natalie Shaw, Director of Employment Affairs, International Chamber of Shipping, said: “The shipping industry, like many other industries, is facing a recruitment crisis. We wanted to set shipping apart from these other industries by showing what an attractive career seafaring is. What makes this video unique is that we are hearing from seafarers themselves, talking openly about their jobs, the challenges, and the opportunities.
“This video is a resource for the whole of the industry, and I encourage you to use it in your recruitment efforts when you are promoting a career at sea”.
IMO launches social media campaign to show appreciation for seafarers
In his message for this year’s Day of the Seafarer 2023 (June 25), IMO Secretary-General, Kitack Lim, underlined the part seafarers have in conserving the state of the oceans, as the maritime sector works towards making shipping more environmentally sound and sustainable.
Mr Lim said: "Seafarers have always played a critical role in helping to protect the health of our ocean and planet, and that role is increasingly important. Every day at sea, they help to enforce IMO's environment related treaties by implementing rules on garbage, and sewage, and air pollution prevention."
"This year, as we celebrate the 50-year anniversary of our main environmental instrument – the MARPOL Convention - renewing our firm commitment towards the protection of our environment, this remains even more relevant."
He added: "As the shipping industry accelerates its support of the global efforts to combat climate change by moving towards decarbonization, seafarers' voices and actions are key to ensuring a just transition to a zero-carbon future."
To highlight that the marine environment is worth protecting, IMO is inviting seafarers to mark Day of the Seafarer 2023 by sharing on social media photographs of themselves wherever they are at sea. The idea is that the world sees through their eyes how the vital work they undertake protects the oceans every day.
Others within the maritime industry and the wider public are also encouraged to take part in the social media campaign to show their appreciation for seafarers.
The 2023 social media hashtag is #OceansWorthProtecting.
Jamaica salutes seafarers’ role in environmental protection on Day of the Seafarer
As it saluted seafarers on the annual international Day of the Seafarer, Jamaica has praised the role mariners across the globe play in protecting the marine environment.
In his Day of the Seafarer address, Rear Admiral Peter Brady (pictured), Director General of the Maritime Authority of Jamaica, said: “The International Day of the Seafarer gives us the opportunity to recognise the crucial role seafarers play in preventing pollution of the marine environment by ships through operational causes or accidents. The professionalism, expertise and dedication of our seafarers are a significant element in implementing the global regulations which protect our environment.”
Noting that this year marks 50 years since the International Maritime Organization adopted its International Convention for the Prevention of Pollution from Ships (MARPOL), Rear Admiral Brady observed: “Everyday hundreds of thousands of seafarers across the world help to enforce the IMO’s crucial environmental treaties by implementing the rules which apply to many aspects of shipping. As the shipping industry accelerates its support for global efforts to combat climate change, by moving towards decarbonisation, seafarers’ actions and voices are the key to ensuring a successful transition to a carbon zero future. Seafarers we salute you.”
His comments were amplified by The Hon. Daryl Vaz, MP, Jamaica’s Minister of Science, Energy, Telecommunications and Transport. Describing seafarers as “unsung heroes” he said: “The dedication, resilience, and unwavering commitment of our seafarers and the maritime industry are truly commendable. Today, we specially highlight your vital role as custodians of MARPOL and stewards of the marine environment.
“Today, as we celebrate the Day of the Seafarer, we collectively express gratitude for your invaluable contributions and role play as custodians of our marine environment. Together, let us continue to protect our oceans.”
As part of it’s celebrations to mark the Day of the Seafarer, the Maritime Authority of Jamaica will host a webinar on Friday June 29 entitled “Seafarers, MARPOL and the Marine Environment.”
Take-up for methanol grows as Maersk orders six more newbuildings
A.P. Moller - Maersk (Maersk) has made an order of six mid-sized container vessels – all having dual-fuel engines able to operate on green methanol. Yangzijiang Shipbuilding Group will build the six 9,000 TEU vessels which will be delivered in 2026 and 2027.
“With this order, we take another step in the green transformation of our fleet and towards our target of becoming net-zero in 2040. As with all our other vessel orders for the last two years, these ships will be able to run on green methanol,” says Rabab Boulos, Chief Infrastructure Officer at Maersk.
In 2021, Maersk ordered the world’s first methanol-enabled container vessel following a commitment to the principle of only ordering newbuilt vessels that can sail on green fuels. Just two years later, the global orderbook stands at more than 100 methanol-enabled vessels.
By ordering additional six vessels, Maersk now has 25 methanol-enabled vessels on order.
“For these six container vessels, we have chosen a design and vessel size which make them very flexible from a deployment point of view. This will allow these vessels to fill many functions in both our current and our future network, thereby offering the flexibility our customers demand. Once phased in, they will replace existing capacity in our fleet,” says Rabab Boulos.
Later this summer, the first methanol-enabled vessel, a 2,100 TEU feeder vessel, will be delivered to Maersk.
Separately, last week fellow liner giant Evergreen Marine Corp confirmed it was pressing ahead with an order for 24 methanol-powered newbuildings. Other lines to have ordered vessels capable of being powered by methanol include CMA CGM, Cosco, HMM, OOCL and X-Press Feeders.
Adam Forsyth, Head of Research at Longspur Capital, a specialist clean energy financial services company, adds that perhaps the most interesting recent development is the move by Maersk to retrofit an existing ship in an agreement with PrimeServ – MAN Energy Solutions’ after-sales division, as the first of eleven planned retrofits. This will involve replacing the existing marine diesel engine with a new dual fuel methanol engine and if successful, he says, “opens the way for Maersk to retrofit its fleet of 700 vessels.”
President Marcos Jr. and shipping industry put seafarer top of agenda at Manila summit
Groups representing the shipping industry have hailed the success of a key summit in the Philippines aimed at strengthening the seafaring workforce, after President Ferdinand Romualdez Marcos Jr commended the event as an “extremely important gathering.”
The President addressed attendees of the ‘Shaping the Future of Shipping: Seafarer 2050’ yesterday (26 June) in Manila. The summit was a gathering of employers, shipowners and unions solely focused on prioritising the needs of seafarers around the world.
President Marcos Jr. remarked: “We are proud of the title as the seafaring capital of the world, with half a million Filipinos braving the vastness of the seas, comprising a quarter of the global maritime workforce. We are also grateful for the opportunities that our seafarers have created and are thankful for the wealth that they have brought home. I thus assure everyone that this government will continue strengthening maritime related policies and protecting our seafarers and their loved ones.”
Adding: “As President, I reiterate my directive to the Maritime Industry Authority and the Commission on Higher Education to work closely with the shipping industry on the upskilling and reskilling of Filipino seafarers to prepare them for the shift of ocean-going vessels from using conventional fuel sources to green ammonia between 2030 to 2040. Moreover, I enjoin national government agencies, multi-layer organisers, and private stakeholders to work together in identifying strategies to ensure the availability of skilled workers to fulfil the requirements of the shipping industry. This is expected to significantly increase by the year 2050.”
The event was organised by the International Chamber of Shipping (ICS), the International Maritime Employers’ Council Ltd. (IMEC) and the International Transport Workers’ Federation (ITF), with the Filipino Shipowners’ Association (FSA). They convened leading maritime stakeholders at a time when recruitment and retention of seafarers is of paramount importance.
In his speech, President Marcos Jr. noted: “Now we find ourselves at a turning point for this very crucial sector. In recent years the entire transportation industry, including shipping of course, is undergoing a huge transformation marked by the coming of new and sustainable fuels, as well as an increasing deployment of digitisation and automation.”
He added: “A central part of this change necessarily includes investing in a highly qualified and well-trained workforce that will build, maintain, and man these shipping vessels and sail towards other opportunities.”
Delegates examined the opportunities and challenges facing the world’s nearly two million seafarers over the coming decades, including increasing automation and digitisation, and the production and transportation of future fuels.
The agenda prioritised education, capacity-building, recruitment, and retention and just transition strategies to strengthen the industry’s future amidst evolving challenges.
Emanuele Grimaldi, Chairman of the ICS board, remarked: “It's the right time to put seafarers centre stage. We’re delighted to have brought together the global maritime community for the first time to remind the world of seafarers’ unique value to society, and to discuss solutions and opportunities for future generations.
“ICS are committed to actioning the outcomes of the summit, in partnership with governments, employers, and unions to continue to evolve our industry for the better, building on the collaboration that was fundamental to ending the pandemic crew change crisis.”
Stephen Cotton, General Secretary of the ITF, said: “Seafarers are rightfully at the top of the agenda because they are the professionals that will drive and define the future of the shipping industry. This summit presents us all with a ground- breaking opportunity to define what skills, what technologies, what standards of training, will be needed in the future, and to ensure that the seafarers who move the world’s cargo are at the centre of driving the transformation of our industry.”
“Whether it’s to combat climate change or the other challenges facing the industry, we must utilise this opportunity to raise standards across the industry and within our regulatory bodies like the IMO, to ensure that shipping is sustainable in every sense of the word - socially, environmentally and economically.”
Capt. Belal Ahmed, Chairman of IMEC, concluded: “Principal partners of Global Maritime Industry came together for a successful summit and committed to work together to ensure Seafarers are centre point of all we do. Industry challenges due to climate change, technological innovation will require huge investment in Seafarers Skill upgrade.
“We at IMEC are committed to work together with employers, our social partners ITF and our industry Partner ICS to ensure the transition to 2050 is achieved together. IMEC wishes to thank President Ferdinand Bongbong Marcos Jr. for his keen interest of the welfare of Seafarers by attending the Manila Maritime Summit. We hope this summit will mark the beginning of cooperation by ALL in the Maritime industry.”
ICS celebrates the Hong Kong Convention entering into force
The International Chamber of Shipping (ICS) celebrates the leadership shown by both principal ship recycling country Bangladesh and the world’s second largest ship registry, the Liberian Registry, for agreeing to ratify the Hong Kong International Convention for the Safe and Environmentally Sound Recycling of Ships (Hong Kong Convention) today.
The Hong Kong Convention aims to ensure that ships when being recycled after reaching the end of their operational lives, do not pose any unnecessary risk to human health and safety or the environment.
Bangladesh ratified the Hong Kong Convention just a few weeks ago, on 12 June 2023, and Liberian Registry’s positive commitment today has allowed all the requirements to be met to successfully bring the much-anticipated Convention into force. The Hong Kong Convention enters into force 24 months after ratification by 15 States, representing 40% of the worlds merchant shipping by gross tonnage, with a combined maximum annual ship recycling volume not less than 3% of their combined tonnage.
Since the Convention was adopted on the 15 May 2009 by the International Maritime Organization (IMO), the International Chamber of Shipping has been advocating for it to be ratified and to come into force to ensure international safe and sustainable ship recycling processes.
John Stawpert, Senior Manager (Environment and Trade) of the International Chamber of Shipping commented: “It is overwhelmingly positive for the shipping and recycling industries, and the environment that the Hong Kong Convention has now entered into force following the most recent confirmation of ratification from Bangladesh and the Liberian Registry, a move that the International Chamber of Shipping have championed for 14 years.
“This marks a sea change for this global industry and confirms that in the near future shipowners will be confident that their vessels will find a safe and environmentally sound destination for recycling. The importance of the Convention entering into force, and what it means for ship recycling worldwide cannot be underestimated”.
Stawpert added: “Entry into force confirms the huge progress made in safe and environmentally sound ship recycling that has been driven by the Convention since its adoption in 2009 and realises the globally compliant market into which ships must now be sold, giving shipowners confidence and legal certainty that end-of-life vessels will be recycled properly.”
BIMCO calls on shipowners to observe responsible ship recycling ahead of HK Convention’s entry into force
The IMO, Bangladesh, and Liberia have announced the ratification of the Hong Kong Convention (HKC) by both nations, triggering the Convention’s entry into force in June 2025. BIMCO believes the ratification marks the beginning of a new era for the ship recycling industry, and ahead of the HKC’s entry in force it is calling on shipowners to choose globally compliant yards for the benefit of the industry’s workers and the environment.
The ratification comes at a time when the need for compliant facilities from the main recycling states such as India, Bangladesh and Pakistan is critical, as more than 15,000 ships will be recycled over the next ten years, according to BIMCO estimates.
“Fourteen years ago, 63 nations adopted the Hong Kong Convention,” says BIMCO Secretary General & CEO, David Loosley, who points out that finally Bangladesh and Liberia have ”paved the way for the convention to enter into force.” He describes the move as ”more than just a step in the right direction, it is a leap that will benefit the environment and workers in the ship recycling industry. The Hong Kong Convention entering into force means that a fully sustainable ship-recycling industry is possible and within reach.”
BIMCO has persistently called for the Hong Kong International Convention for the Safe and Environmentally Sound Recycling of Ships, commonly known as the Hong Kong Convention, to enter into force, and applauds the 20 nations that have already ratified.
During a visit to Chattogram and Dhaka in Bangladesh in early May by BIMCO and other industry organisations to discuss the benefits of ratifying the convention, Bangladesh confirmed its commitment to ratify this year. In addition to addressing safety benefits, ship recycling holds significant potential for contributing to the circular economy, as the industry provides thousands of jobs, and the steel is re-used. But it must be done safely and responsibly.
“We commend Bangladesh’s and Liberia’s commitment to making ship recycling safe. Today is the real beginning, the work starts now. We will continue to call on shipowners to commit to choosing globally compliant yards when their ships reach the end of their life cycle,” Loosley says.
The Hong Kong Convention was developed over three and a half years in cooperation with the International Labour Organization (ILO) and the parties to the Basel Convention. It was adopted by 63 countries in 2009 and addresses safety, proper working conditions, environmental issues and how to deal with hazardous materials. The Hong Kong Convention has, until today, not been ratified by enough nations to enter into force.
Hong Kong ship recycling Convention set to enter into force
The Hong Kong International Convention for the Safe and Environmentally Sound Recycling of Ships (the Hong Kong Convention) is set to enter into force within 24 months, after Bangladesh and Liberia became Contracting States to the Convention.
The Hong Kong Convention is aimed at ensuring that ships, when being recycled after reaching the end of their operational lives, do not pose any unnecessary risks to human health, safety and to the environment.
The Hong Kong Convention will enter into force 24 months after the following required criteria have been met:
• not less than 15 States;
• not less than 40% of the world's merchant shipping by gross tonnage; and
• ship recycling capacity of not less than 3% of the gross tonnage of the combined merchant shipping of those States mentioned above.
These conditions have now been met and the Convention will enter into force on 26 June 2025.
Bangladesh is one of the world’s largest ship recycling countries by capacity. Liberia is one of the world’s largest flag States by tonnage.
Her Excellency Ms. Saida Muna Tasneem, High Commissioner, Permanent Representative of Bangladesh to the IMO, deposited the instrument of accession with IMO Secretary-General Kitack Lim on 26 June 2023, at IMO Headquarters in London.
On the same day, The Honourable Lenn Eugene Nagbe (pictured, right), Commissioner and CEO of the Liberia Maritime Authority, deposited the instrument of accession with IMO Secretary-General Lim (left). As one of the largest flag State, Liberia’s accession has enabled the tonnage criteria to be met.
Secretary-General Kitack Lim commended Bangladesh and Liberia for their accessions to the Hong Kong Convention for the Safe and Environmentally Sound Recycling of Ships.
"I congratulate Bangladesh and Liberia for depositing their instruments of accession this June, triggering within 24 months the entry into force of the Hong Kong Convention, and the global regime for safe and environmentally sound recycling of ships. This is a momentous day for IMO, and it is indeed a historical development for the international shipping industry, for the marine environment, and especially for workers and local communities in ship recycling countries globally."
"Bangladesh as a major ship-recycling country, has made huge strides in recent years in improving its ship recycling regulation and standards to meet the Hong Kong Convention requirements. My sincere thanks to the Government of Bangladesh for this timely decision of accession,". Secretary General Mr. Lim said.
"I take this opportunity to also thank the Government of Norway for their continued support to the IMO-implemented project on Safe and Environmentally Sound Ship Recycling in Bangladesh (SENSREC), which has helped to make this accession possible,” he added. “I would also like to express my deepest appreciation to Liberia. As a prominent flag state, their accession to the Hong Kong Convention will provide a major advancement to Liberia's regulatory framework and would enable the tonnage criteria to be met."
"I invite other Member States, who have not yet become a party to the Hong Kong Convention, to do so as soon as possible," he added.
Her Excellency Ms. Tasneem said: “The Government of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina has once again demonstrated Bangladesh’s global leadership and commitment as a major ship recycling country to environmentally safe and sustainable ship recycling by acceding to the Hong Kong Convention. Bangladesh thanks IMO Secretary General Kitack Lim and his team, the Government of Norway and other international organizations for their continued support to our ship recycling industry.”
The Honourable Lenn Eugene Nagbe said: "As a preeminent partner in global maritime affairs, Liberia takes its vested responsibility to ensuring safe and environmentally responsible practices throughout the industry by the enactment and adherence to laws and regulations to help guide maritime activities. It is therefore with great pride that we have ratified Hong Kong Convention for the Safe and Environmentally Sound Recycling of Ships, thus attaining the required threshold for this critically important international convention to finally come into force.”
“As a major flag State, the coming into force of this convention will enable our national regulatory framework to work for the benefit of the maritime industry and open opportunities for additional investments into responsible ship recycling, globally and in Liberia. Today is indeed a great and historic day for world shipping," he said.
The Hong Kong Convention was adopted at a diplomatic conference held in Hong Kong, China, in 2009. It is aimed at ensuring that ships, when being recycled after reaching the end of their operational lives, do not pose any unnecessary risks to human health, safety and to the environment.
It embraces the “cradle to grave” concept, addressing all environmental and safety aspects relating to ship recycling, from the ship design stage through to the end of the ship’s life, including also the responsible management and disposal of associated waste streams in a safe and environmentally sound manner.
The Convention places responsibilities and obligations on all parties concerned – including shipowners, ship building yards, ship recycling facilities, flag States, port States, recycling States.
Upon entry into force of the Hong Kong Convention, ships to be sent for recycling will be required to carry onboard an Inventory of Hazardous Materials. Ship recycling facilities authorized by Competent Authorities will be required to provide a Ship Recycling Plan, specific to each individual vessel to be recycled. Additionally, Governments will be required to ensure that recycling facilities under their jurisdiction comply with the Convention.
The Hong Kong Convention now has the following contracting parties: Bangladesh, Belgium, Republic of the Congo, Croatia, Denmark, Estonia, France, Germany, Ghana, India, Japan, Liberia, Luxembourg, Malta, Kingdom of the Netherlands, Norway, Panama, Portugal, São Tomé and Príncipe, Serbia, Spain, Türkiye.
The 22 Contracting States to the Convention represent approximately 45.81% of the gross tonnage of the world's merchant shipping. The combined annual ship recycling volume of the Contracting States during the preceding 10 years amounts to 23,848,453 gross tonnage, equivalent to 3.31% of the required recycling volume.
Comment on ASA’s response to Bangladesh ratification of the Hong Kong Convention
Bangladesh and Liberia deposited their instruments of accession of the Hong Kong Convention (HKC) with IMO. Asian Shipowners’ Association (ASA) welcomes this ratification!
This significant step demonstrates Bangladesh's commitment to sustainable practices in the ship recycling industry and highlights its dedication to protecting the environment and the well-being of workers.
The HKC, adopted by the International Maritime Organization (IMO) in 2009, sets out guidelines and regulations for the safe and environmentally sound recycling of ships. Its ratification by Bangladesh solidifies the country's adherence to international standards and positions it as a responsible global player in the ship recycling sector.
ASA Secretary General, Yuichi Sonoda, said: "With this ratification, Bangladesh joins a select group of nations actively working towards enhancing safety and sustainability in ship recycling operations. The decision reflects Bangladesh's proactive approach to improving the industry's practices, ensuring worker safety, and minimizing the environmental impact associated with ship recycling."
The ratification of the HKC signifies a vital milestone for Bangladesh, as it aligns with the country's broader commitment to sustainable development and responsible industrial practices. It underscores Bangladesh's dedication to promoting a circular economy and fostering the responsible management of end-of-life vessels.
"By implementing the guidelines outlined in the HKC, Bangladesh aims to ensure the safe and environmentally friendly recycling of ships within its territory.", said ASA.
The Convention emphasises proper management of hazardous materials, appropriate working conditions for shipbreaking workers, and efficient waste management practices.
ASA also said; "Furthermore, this ratification opens up opportunities for collaboration and knowledge sharing with other signatory nations. Bangladesh looks forward to engaging in international partnerships that will contribute to the continuous improvement of ship recycling practices, benefiting not only the country but also the global maritime industry as a whole."
Bangladesh's shipbreaking yards have taken significant steps towards enhancing workers safety, environmental protection and sustainable operations. ASA hopes acceleration in improvements in yard facilities and operations in Bangladesh, like India has done before and after its ratification of HKC.
ASA calls upon industry stakeholders, international organisations and relevant partners to join hands in supporting the country's efforts. ASA strongly encourages its fellow international organisations to follow ASA’s standing policy of ensuring priority usage of HKC-certified yards and yards in the process of obtaining certification, as the world needs much more compliant yards in coming years to replace the obsolete vessels to newer green vessels. Together, we can strive for a safer, greener and more sustainable future for the ship recycling industry, benefiting both the global environment and our community. We will encourage other countries to ratify HKC.
New recommendations for design and operation of ammonia-fuelled vessels
Safety risks of ammonia as a fuel can only be mitigated if effective technical and operational safeguards are implemented whilst addressing human factors considerations.
A joint study into ammonia safety onboard ships undertaken by the Lloyd’s Register (LR) Maritime Decarbonisation Hub and the Mærsk Mc-Kinney Møller Center for Zero Carbon Shipping (MMMCZCS), has found that a range of mitigation methods, from ship design to crew training and operations, are required to keep toxicity risks to crew within published tolerable limits.
‘Recommendations for Design and Operation of Ammonia-Fuelled Vessels based on Multi-disciplinary Risk Analysis' presents the most comprehensive study to date of the effectiveness of risk mitigation measures in three ammonia-fuelled vessels – a container ship, a tanker and a bulk carrier.
Seen as one of the most promising alternative fuels for the maritime energy transition, ammonia can be combusted with almost no carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions. However, using ammonia as a shipping fuel can create potential safety hazards, including toxicity. It is crucial for shipping’s stakeholders to understand the risks of ammonia as a shipping fuel and the safeguards that can be implemented to reduce them to tolerable levels.
Using Quantitative Risk Assessment (QRA) analysis, a powerful data-driven method that allows users to assess risk in a quantitative and granular manner, the joint study has been able to identify vessel design and operational measures that would reduce ammonia risks to a tolerable level.
Dr. Andy Franks, Senior Decarbonisation Risk Specialist, LR Maritime Decarbonisation Hub, said: “The global energy transition drives a move from fossil fuels to alternative energy sources, which inevitably brings about new safety challenges and the need for shipping to manage more complex hazards. Our approach to understanding and mitigating the risks of ammonia as a shipping fuel incorporates both a quantitative data-driven approach to ship design as well as a human factors approach to address crew safety. Through these two approaches we provide practical insights that will support the industry in managing safety risks to crew within published tolerable limits.”
Claus Winter Graugaard, Chief Technology Officer, Onboard Vessel Solutions, Mærsk Mc-Kinney Møller Center for Zero Carbon Shipping, said: "To enable sustainable and scalable new energy pathways such as ammonia as a marine fuel, we must advance technological developments.
However, in the eagerness to transform, we must do so without compromising safety and reliability, by employing a strong risk-based change management approach. Care of our seafarers and strong safety management are imperative. This study has given us deep insights into risk and will provide critical understanding and intelligence to help guide the industry towards safe application of ammonia as a marine fuel.”
ClassNK issues requirements for strength assessment incorporating latest wave data
ClassNK has released ‘Guidelines for Direct Load Analysis and Strength Assessment (Edition 3.0)’. Following the revision of IACS Recommendation No. 34, these guidelines specify the requirements for conducting hull strength assessments based on the latest wave data.
ClassNK’s Rules and Guidance for the Survey and Construction of Steel Ships and IACS CSR stipulate that hull strength assessments based on finite element analysis should be conducted as part of the classification requirements. In the evaluation, the load must be estimated using simplified formulae that utilize data from existing ships, depending on ship type and other relevant factors. In the case of the size lacking sufficient service record or new structural configuration, the method called "direct load and structural analysis”, which directly simulates the wave-induced loads acting upon ships may be used for strength assessments that accurately capture the characteristics of each ship. These guidelines specify the classification requirements for these analyses.
In response to the revision of IACS Recommendation No. 34, which comprehensively updated the wave data to be anticipated for the strength assessment, ClassNK has released the 3rd edition of its guidelines, revising the relevant requirements.
The class notation ‘PS-DA-DLA’ and/or ‘PS-FA-DLA’ are respectively affixed to the classification characters of a ship when strength assessments have been carried out for all cargo areas in accordance with the guidelines.
The guidelines are available to download via ‘Guidelines’ of My Page on ClassNK’s website after registration.
“K” LINE conducts demonstration test voyage of tugboat using marine biodiesel fuel at Nagoya Port
“K” Line Port Service Co., Ltd., a group company of Kawasaki Kisen Kaisha., Ltd. (“K” LINE), conducted a demonstration test voyage with the tugboat Aihomaru operating in Nagoya Port using next-generation biodiesel fuel.
Biodiesel fuel is carbon neutral defined in the IPCC guidelines and a decarbonised fuel that can be used without changing the specifications of existing marine diesel engines by mixed combustion with heavy fuel oil (HFO).
This time the biodiesel fuel supplied by Toyotsu Energy Corporation at Nagoya Port was made from waste cooking oil. This initiative contributes to a circular economy through the construction of a supply chain based on local production for local consumption.
In the demonstration test voyage, the fuel supply vessel (bunkering vessel) supplied marine biofuel to the Aihomaru with using a ship-to-ship method, with the aims of verifying that there is no hindrance to the series of ship operations and reducing CO2 emissions in operation.
The “K” LINE Group’s long-term environmental guidelines—the “K” LINE Environmental Vision 2050- Blue Seas for the Future-—set a target of 50% improvement in CO2 emission efficiency in comparison with 2008, which exceeds the 2030 target of 40% improvement in CO2 emission efficiency (also in comparison with 2008) set by IMO.
“K” LINE also aims to contribute to the enrichment of people’s lives by driving its own decarbonisation efforts and supporting the decarbonisation of society at large, declaring the target of attempting to achieve net-zero GHG emissions by 2050.
ONE enhances refrigerated container fleet with Carrier’s Lynx Fleet solution
Ocean Network Express (ONE) is installing Carrier Transicold’s Lynx™ Fleet solution onto its existing fleet of Carrier refrigerated containers. Carrier Transicold is part of Carrier Global Corporation, a leader in intelligent climate and energy solutions.
Lynx Fleet will be installed with the latest features, including Reefer Health, which comprises Carrier’s proprietary technology to monitor near-live reefer unit performance as well as up to a 72-hours forecast, providing added visibility on location, movement and temperature of individual containers on a centralized data stream. This feature will allow fleet managers to download diagnostic information about their equipment, giving them added insights into the health of their reefers by reporting anomalies along with possible causes and potential measures to resolve.
"Harnessing the power of data and connectivity is one of our key strategic initiatives, and we are excited to join forces with Carrier,” said Kenichi Michida, Senior Vice President, Strategic Yield Management, ONE. “We are confident that Carrier’s Lynx Fleet will help increase fleet uptime and optimization, while reducing cargo spoilage risk and providing immense value for our customers. This will prove to be a critical piece in ultimately differentiating what we can offer to our customers.”
Lynx Fleet will offer prognostics and data analytics with features such as:
• Improved fleet uptime through unit health analytics and prognostics using Carrier-unique features with proprietary technology.
• Reduced Operational and Maintenance Costs as a result of optimized operational performance with preventative maintenance platform features
• Incremental value through lower cargo spoilage and possible reduced insurance costs.
“We are pleased that Carrier’s Lynx Fleet – by facilitating precise, data-driven decision making – is able to support the pivotal role that ONE plays in global trade, and we look forward to moving ahead on this milestone achievement together,” said Campbell Brooke, General Manager, Telematics, Global Container Refrigeration, Carrier.
Bilbao and Amsterdam sign agreement to develop new European renewable hydrogen corridor
Port of Bilbao and Port of Amsterdam, together with the Energy Agency of the Basque Government (EVE), Petronor, SkyNRG, Evos Amsterdam and Zenith Energy Terminals, earlier this month signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to join forces for the development of a renewable hydrogen corridor between Bilbao and Amsterdam, focusing on the maritime route between the two ports.
His Majesty the King of the Netherlands Willem-Alexander, the Dutch Minister Rob Jetten and the Spanish Minister Teresa Ribera attended the signing ceremony as official witnesses. The attendance of the King underlines the importance attached by the Netherlands and Spain to bilateral cooperation for the development of the renewable hydrogen market.
The Dutch Minister for Climate and Energy Policy, Mr. Rob Jetten, stated: ‘In order to realise a climate neutral energy system and a sustainable industry, the Netherlands and Europe have large hydrogen ambitions. International collaboration is essential to develop the hydrogen market and the associated infrastructure. Within the EU, Spain offers plenty of opportunities and is therefore one of our most important hydrogen partners. In the end, it is the companies that will truly need to make it happen. Important that this is already happening and that Dutch and Spanish companies are reaching shared agreements on the delivery of green hydrogen.’
The MoU states the parties will team up to develop a renewable hydrogen supply chain, focusing on production in the Basque Country and export to the Netherlands and the European hinterland through the port of Amsterdam. This fits with the wider Basque Hydrogen Strategy, developed by EVE, which is aimed at both local usage and international markets, and the Dutch government's stimulation of the production, import and use of hydrogen.
The port of Bilbao is part of the Basque Hydrogen Corridor, a collaboration spearheaded by Petronor and Repsol to decarbonise the energy, industrial, residential and mobility sectors. Petronor is committed to developing a broad range of renewable fuels and to creating a hub in Bilbao that will compose a synthetic fuels plant and an urban waste processing project.
Thus, Petronor and Repsol, together with EVE and other companies, are developing the construction of electrolysers for the production of renewable hydrogen, with a total capacity of 113 MW, and a demonstration plant for the production of hydrogen-based e-fuels, the first synthetic fuel plaint in Spain. They are developing another project focused on a municipal waste pyrolysis plant, which aligns with Repsol’s strategy of promoting the circular economy. It will make use of cutting-edge technologies to decarbonise processes in Petronor.
These projects will set a new benchmark in Europe and are on the leading edge of the development of net-zero emissions fuels. Hydrogen based fuels, e-fuels and methanol are promising solutions to cope with both transport and maritime needs.
The port of Bilbao features multiple of these projects and will serve as a hub for the export of renewable hydrogen and its derivatives. The port of Bilbao is already an important European logistical centre. This role can be leveraged for the ambitions of the Spanish government to become a key supplier of renewable hydrogen and e-fuels to, in particular, North-West Europe. A green hydrogen corridor between the ports of Bilbao and Amsterdam can underpin this ambition.
Carlos Alzaga, Managing Director of the Port of Bilbao Authority said: ‘The Port of Bilbao is fully committed to the production, transport and use of renewable energies and supports and works together with those companies that are developing green sources of energies. And green hydrogen is one of the most important paths for that goal.’
Port of Amsterdam is the operator of Europe’s fourth-largest port and is strongly committed to developing green hydrogen facilities within its port area, as well as establishing import corridors for green hydrogen and its derivatives. One of the prominent industrial sectors supplied by the port of Amsterdam is the aviation industry. The port features a direct connection to one of Europe’s largest airports, Amsterdam Airport Schiphol. The aviation industry, like shipping, faces a significant decarbonisation challenge, with Sustainable Aviation Fuels (SAF) viewed as an important part of tackling this challenge.
SkyNRG, a global leader in SAF, is developing a network of SAF production facilities that require green hydrogen as input, including one in the port of Amsterdam. Zenith Energy Terminals and Evos Amsterdam are the operators of some of the most prominent blending and storage terminals in the port. Zenith Energy Terminals is developing a liquid hydrogen supply chain, while Evos Amsterdam is working on a liquid organic hydrogen carrier supply chain.
Dorine Bosman, Chief Investment Officer at Port of Amsterdam, said: “The port of Amsterdam plays a crucial role in the energy transition. The recently awarded status of Hydrogen Valley to the broader Amsterdam area highlights the pace of development in this region. Port of Amsterdam views green hydrogen and e-fuels as major components of the port of the future. We are very pleased to collaborate with the companies active in our port, and with our Spanish counterparts.
“The port of Bilbao and Petronor are natural fits for setting up a green hydrogen corridor. The formation of such intra-European corridors goes a long way in propelling the European Union as a whole to its new energy future.”
Grimaldi introduces ‘greenest ro-ro ships in the world’ on Venice-Bari-Patras line
Starting this week, the regular ro-ro line operated by the Grimaldi Group between Venice, Bari and Patras will be served by two of the company’s ‘green giants’, the state-of-the-art hybrid vessels Eco Catania and Eco Malta.
The Neapolitan shipping group, in synergy with the Port System Authorities of the Northern Adriatic Sea and of the Southern Adriatic Sea, as well as that of the Greek port of Patras, aims to enhance maritime intermodality between the two shores of the Adriatic through the use of ships which are among the largest and most eco-friendly in the world, with much higher capacity and better performances than the ‘Eurocargo’ class ships that they will replace on the line.
In fact, each of the two ‘ships can carry some 7,800 linear metres of freight, equivalent to around 500 trailers and 180 cars – twice as much as the previous class of short sea ro-ro ships deployed by the Grimaldi Group. However, this greater capacity does not increase fuel consumption thanks to the adoption of numerous highly innovative technological solutions that optimize the vessels’ operational and environmental performance: in fact, at the same speed, Eco Catania and Eco Malta consume the same amount of fuel as the previous generation ro-ro ships, meaning they can effectively halve CO2 emissions per unit transported.
In addition, emissions are cut to zero during port operations: when they are at berth, Eco Catania and Eco Malta use the electricity stored in mega lithium batteries which are recharged during navigation thanks to shaft generators and 350 m2 of solar panels installed on board, thus reaching the “Zero Emission in Port®” target.
An important innovation for the ports that will be served by these ships starting from next week, as underlined by Ugo Patroni Griffi, President of the Port System Authority of the Southern Adriatic Sea. “Having ships producing zero emission in port represents a key investment for the sustainable future of our seaports”, he commented.
“In fact, in addition to guaranteeing zero emission impact on the territory, the introduction of two brand new Grimaldi ‘Eco’ vessels – replacing the four ‘Eurocargo’ ships which have been operating the line up to now – will exponentially increase the transport capacity of rolling freight from the port of Bari. Not only will this green evolution make us more competitive on the international market: it will also allow us to optimize the efficiency of port operations, reducing transit times and improving the overall productivity of the port.
“This is another decisive step forward in the process of transforming our ports into multipurpose, eco-sustainable hubs. Soon, this path will also be enhanced by the benefits offered by the cold ironing project, currently under approval, which will lead us to the goal of environmentally responsible maritime transport, which in turn will ensure greater protection of the health of local communities and the conservation of marine ecosystems”.
"The Ro/Ro sector, which grew by over 11% in 2022 – a trend that has continued also in the first half of 2023 – is central to the development of the port system in the Veneto region", declared the Port System Authority of the Northern Adriatic Sea, Fulvio Lino Di Blasio. "For this reason, after the enhancement of the Grimaldi service registered last March, we welcome with enthusiasm the introduction of two latest-generation vessels on the Venice-Bari-Patras line.
“The doubling of the capacity of the new ships compared to those previously operating will lead to a further increase in Ro/Ro traffic in the port of Venice,” he added, “and the zero-emission electric mode during port stops will bring environmental benefit to the port system and, above all, to the areas surrounding the Fusina ferry terminal, which will be equipped for cold ironing in the near future.”
“On the 26th of June, the existing Venice-Bar-/Patras line will become ‘greener’. The new ships - Eco Catania and Eco Malta - using advanced technological solutions in terms of halving the emissions of CO2, will enhance our Port, offering one more tool to its transformation to a Sustainable-Green Port,” stated Panagiotis Tsonis, CEO of the Patras Port Authority. “Furthermore the increased capacity of the above mentioned Ro-Ro ships will optimize the efficiency and the productivity of our Port”.
“With our highly efficient maritime services, the result of years of commitment and concrete investments and collaboration with the port authorities, we have built a solid bridge on the Adriatic ridge, from Venice to Bari, which runs up to the Greek shores of the Adriatic; a fundamental bridge on which hundreds of heavy vehicles travel every day, using the motorways of the sea rather than land roads”, said Grimaldi Group Managing Director Emanuele Grimaldi.
“Starting next Monday, this bridge will become even ‘greener’, like the liveries of the hybrid ships Eco Catania and Eco Malta that we will deploy on our regular Venice-Bari-Patras maritime link. With our operations, we will further boost maritime intermodality and guarantee even more efficient transport services between Italy and Greece.
“Once again, the positive impact of our investments will extend beyond the boundaries of the shipping sector, generating more value and sustainability not only for our customers who operate in the transport of freight, but also for the communities gravitating around the ports served by our connections".
StormGeo continues Asia expansion with opening of new operations centre in the Philippines
StormGeo, a leading provider of weather intelligence and decision-support solutions for the shipping industry and part of Alfa Laval, announced today the opening of its new operations centre in Manila, the Philippines. The expansion in Asia-Pacific will enhance the company’s long-term collaboration with and close commitment to customers in this region.
“The launch of our Manila office emphasizes our commitment to the APAC region,” said Petty Leung (pictured), Executive Director, Shipping Services, StormGeo. “The increasing digitalisation of voyage optimisation holds tremendous benefits for the shipping industry, while human engagement is still necessary for countless decisions.
“I am especially pleased that our extensive maritime expertise in Asian time zones enhances our ability to meet our customers’ needs and foster closer relationships with all our customers, partners, and stakeholders in Asia Pacific.”
The Philippines is a logical choice for StormGeo to establish the operation center since over 90% of trade in the Philippines is moved by sea, making the shipping sector a noteworthy business in the country. The new APAC operations centre will focus on providing professional route advisory services 24/7, as well as allowing StormGeo to create new business opportunities in the region. The new office expands StormGeo’s network of locations in APAC to seven, including offices in key cities such as Hong Kong, Singapore, Shanghai, Taiwan, Tokyo, and Seoul.
As part of the expansion, Michael Krch has been appointed APAC Operations Manager and will lead the company’s efforts in servicing its growing customer base across Asia. Michael has over 20 years of experience in meteorological operations, including maritime transport risk management and route analysis. He joined StormGeo as a route analyst supervisor in 2008 and has led the weather route analyst team to provide analytical support to a fleet of over 5,000 commercial vessels.
“The decision to establish the new operations centre in Asia-Pacific supports our growth plan,” said Michael Krch, APAC Operations Manager, StormGeo. “We’ve been active in this region for 25 years and are excited to be formally establishing an operation centre in the Philippines.”
In 2022, StormGeo provided route optimisation services to our customers for 71,000 voyages. This equates to saving 488,125 MT of fuel and the removal of 1.4 million MT of CO2 and more than 24,000 MT SOX from the atmosphere and ocean.
StormGeo has pushed the evolution of voyage optimisation even further by offering a novel way to optimise fuel efficiency and reduce greenhouse gas emissions without compromising arrival windows. This method, called Strategic Power Routing, effectively makes weather routing a vital component of any decarbonisation effort.
Top Glory Marine celebrates 10 years in business of providing sustainable waste management solutions
The steady increase of environmental awareness in our society is a huge step forward for the future of our planet, says waste management specialist Top Glory Marine (TGM) as they celebrate 10 years in business this month.
Managing Director Silke Fehr (pictured) believes shipping will succeed in its ambitions to become a greener industry, and that waste management will be reinvented as new technologies and processes evolve to ensure the transition to sustainability.
Reflecting on the last 10 years in business and the subject of sustainability, Mrs. Fehr said: “ESG performance has become a huge topic during the past few years. With new regulations coming in that will mean writing ESG reports will become mandatory in the future, it is a field that will come much more into focus.
“Sustainability and also the sense of sustainability has changed a lot. When we started our business 10 years ago, there was not as much focus on sustainability as there is today. People want to become and also act greener and this is quite a great development.”
“Within the last 10 years, the damage caused to the environment has also become more visible, with many thought-provoking images in the public domain. We do not think about words so much but to see images of oil spills, or birds covered in oil, provokes a highly emotive response. Especially with the young generation who are moving things forward and making noise around climate change, there is a lot of attention being paid to this area now,” she added.
TGM began its journey in June 2013 with the aim of providing a sustainable and cost-efficient waste management while reducing the workload for shipowners, ship managers and the crew. With one single point of contact, TGM ensures companies’ waste management needs are managed with no additional workload to them.
Being the first company dedicated to this niche market offering waste disposal services worldwide through its network of around 200 verified disposal companies, TGM’s dedication to high environmental and quality standards has had a significant positive influence on its ecosystem and network.
TGM has achieved great success in its first decade in business, having grown every year along with its portfolio of clients. The team has grown to 17 specialists since its inception, with Mrs. Fehr at the helm.
Looking ahead to the future in the waste management sector, Mrs. Fehr believes the maritime industry should stay focused on digitalisation and new technologies. She explained: “The topic of digitalisation is a challenging one. We need to evolve processes, software and stay open-minded. There are regulations and developments in the maritime industry, for example the focus set on LNG engines and the ban of burning heavy oil. Technologies and processes change, and it can be a challenge if there is not enough flexibility to then rethink and find a solution to respond to the new circumstances and have a solution at hand.”
Cyprus calls for HKC-compliant yards to be included in EU approved recycling facilities list
The Cyprus Shipping Chamber has welcomed the entry into force in June 2025 of the Hong Kong International Convention for the Safe and Environmentally Sound Recycling of Ships (Hong Kong Convention or HKC) following ratification by Bangladesh and Liberia.
Global safe and sustainable ship recycling practices will have positive effects on human health, safety and the environment, it points out.
Recognising the progress that has been made over the past 14 years since adoption of the HKC by the IMO, the Chamber considers it imperative that the European Commission adds to the European list of approved recycling facilities, any recycling facility that meets the requirements of the Convention.
Such a move will provide “a level playing field for end-of-life EU flagged ships that are now required to be recycled in a small number of recycling facilities included in the EU List,” it says, “which is not sufficient to satisfy demand and geographic spread for a global industry like shipping.”
Ship owners and charterers to take centre stage in key industry discussion during LISW23
Leading international ship owners and charterers will play a significant role in the Headline Conference at this year’s London International Shipping Week 2023 (LISW23), which takes place at the Thames-side headquarters of the International Maritime Organization on Wednesday September 13.
Environmental matters will be central to discussions, particularly following next week’s pivotal IMO Marine Environment Protection Committee meeting (MEPC80). Taking part in the ground-breaking LISW discussions will be Jan Dieleman, President, Cargill Ocean Transport, and Chair of the Global Maritime Forum. Mr Dieleman will outline his vision for the future of the shipping industry when he joins a crucial panel discussion which aims to identify potential solutions to address the challenges impacting global trade, particularly in relation to decarbonisation.
Joining this panel, moderated by international lawyer Siiri Duddington from Hill Dickinson, are Nick Brown, Chief Executive of Lloyd’s Register, and Ben Palmer, President of Inmarsat Maritime. Together they will examine how to ensure shipping’s carbon transition can be done in an equitable way both for those in the industry and wider society. Key considerations will include: Will the market or the regulator drive decarbonisation? And can this transition be achieved if it is not underpinned by a global liberal trading regime?
Threats posed to global shipping by the geopolitical environment will be scrutinised by a panel including Karrie Trauth, Shell’s Senior Vice President of Shipping & Maritime, a passionate leader in energy transition. The panel, moderated by , CEO of Anglo International, will also include Elisabeth Fauvelle Munck af Rosenschöld, the Global Sustainability Manager for IKEA Transport & Logistics, and Andrew Cutler, CEO of Britannia P&I who also chairs the International Group of P&I Clubs. Questioning why the shipping industry is largely reactive to disruptive foreign policy, the panel will debate whether the industry could, or should, be more overt in how it communicates its global strategic importance.
Prominent Greek ship owner Nick Tsakos, President & CEO of Tsakos Energy Group Limited, brings his vast experience to a panel chaired by Martin Crawford-Brunt, Director of the Baltic Exchange, to explore the relationship between regulation and market response, examining what are the implications for investors, financiers, charterers and shipowners.
With UK Government Ministers expected to be in attendance, the Conference will highlight the central role of London and the UK in the maritime industry’s future.
Sean Moloney, co-founder of LISW, commented: “With a premier line-up and significant maritime industry venue, the LISW23 Headline Conference is taking place at a decisive moment for the shipping industry. We look forward to some hard-hitting discussions with enthusiastic participation from the delegate floor.”
Registration for the LISW23 Headline Conference is now open. To book visit the LISW23 website at https://londoninternationalshippingweek.com/ticket-registration/
Equinor starts ammonia bunkering study with Azane Fuel Solutions
Based on a long running dialogue about ammonia fuel and bunkering, Norwegian-owned multinational energy company Equinor and Azane Fuel Solutions have decided to establish the ‘AFNO 2030 – Ammonia fuel for the Norwegian offshore sector 2025-2030’ project.
The project will study how clean ammonia can be introduced as a fuel to decarbonize the Norwegian offshore sector and will cover logistical optimisation, operational planning, and safety aspects. Key challenges to be overcome include safety aspects related to ammonia toxicity and corrosivity.
AFNO 2030 planned activities are divided in three main categories:
- Develop an estimated ammonia fuel demand timeline.
- Develop a fuel supply value chain development plan.
- Perform site-specific location planning for bunkering.
"We look forward to working with Equinor to showcase how clean ammonia can be utilized to decarbonize the Norwegian offshore sector,” says Håkon Skjerstad, newly appointed CEO at Azane Fuel Solutions. “Equinor can play an important role in the maritime green shift - as a first mover to utilize the fuel, technologies and bunkering infrastructure required for the industry to make the leap."
This project expands upon the established groundwork of the ‘AFBN - Ammonia fuel bunkering network’ project during the past two years in. Led by Azane Fuel Solutions in a consortium that includes partners like Yara Clean Ammonia, SINTEF, and Fjord Base (Norway's largest offshore supply base), the project now welcomes Equinor as an associated partner to AFBN. Together, these collaborations aim to advance the ammonia fuel bunkering domain, leveraging the expertise and resources of all involved parties.
In April 2022 it was announced that Yara has pre-ordered up to 15 ammonia bunkering terminals to sufficiently cover the Scandinavian market in a multi-year contract with Azane Fuel Solutions. The network of carbon-free floating bunkering terminals is a major step towards making shipping fossil-fuel free.
ShipIn expands presence in Asia with ABL deal
ShipIn Systems, the world's first AI visual analytics platform that monitors safety, operations, and maintenance onboard, has secured its first Indonesian client in a deal with Asian Bulk Logistics (ABL).
The agreement will see ShipIn installing its platform, FleetVision™, on vessels owned and operated by ABL, the Jakarta-based integrated sea logistics and infrastructure company. ABL has invested in the AI-powered platform as part of its ongoing strategy to foster a culture of safety onboard, using the latest technology.
The platform detects events onboard in real-time using AI-powered CCTV, giving onboard and shoreside fleet managers the same visibility into onboard operations and enabling them to identify any potential maintenance or safety risks related to onboard operations, including cargo handling, security, maintenance and more.
ABL’s strategic decision to install FleetVision™ onboard their vessels was driven by their strong commitment to achieving operational efficiency and enhancing safety. By leveraging ShipIn’s advanced FleetVision platform, they have gained real-time visibility into their operations, enabling proactive monitoring, prompt detection of potential risks onboard, and ship to shore collaboration.
Ship managers receive alerts of any operational or safety issues in near real-time, helping to mitigate the risk of incidents onboard. Moreover, it eradicates the need to sift through 10,000 hours of footage to establish why an unexpected event or accident occurred – making the marine risk management and insurance claims process far more cost-effective and less time-consuming.
The FleetVision™ platform’s enhanced situational awareness has not only streamlined operations but also fostered a safer environment for crew. Now, ABL is well-positioned to optimize their performance and ensure the highest standards of safety onboard their vessels.
Commenting on the deal, Edmund Situmorang, Chief Technology Officer at ABL said: “In this digital age, we have the means to protect mariners using AI-powered systems that alert them to any risks arising from operational or maintenance issues onboard, as well as security threats. FleetVision™ will help safeguard our seafarers and provide data-driven insights that we can draw on to continuously assess and develop our onboard safety practices, procedures, and culture.”
Osher Perry, CEO of ShipIn Systems, added: “The maritime industry is often accused of lagging behind when it comes to embracing digital technology. But shipping companies such as ABL clearly recognize the benefits of an AI-powered platform that enhances safety, provides insights into a ship’s operations and maintenance, and gives fleet managers greater visibility of vessels sailing in remote locations. We’re delighted to work with ABL, our first Indonesian client, and to help the company safeguard its seafarers.”
MacGregor receives large access equipment order for cruise vessel
MacGregor, part of Cargotec, has received a large order for a comprehensive package of access equipment for a cruise vessel, which will be built at Chantiers de l’Atlantique shipyard in France.
The order was booked into Cargotec’s 2023 second quarter orders received. The vessel is scheduled to be delivered to the shipowner during the fourth quarter of 2025.
MacGregor’s scope of supply encompasses design, hardware and commissioning of lifting and other platforms, shell doors, hatch covers and automatic gangways.
“I’m happy to see the cruise business starting to recover after the Covid pandemic and that the shipowners yet again want to invest in new vessels,” says Magnus Sjöberg, Senior Vice President, Merchant Solutions, MacGregor. “I’m proud to see that the shipowner and Chantiers de l’Atlantique shipyard trust us in delivering access solutions to this new cruise vessel.”
UECC collaborates with GoodFuels and NYK to slash carbon emissions with sustainable biofuel
United European Car Carriers (UECC), the leading provider of sustainable short sea ro-ro transportation in Europe, has successfully completed the delivery of sustainable biofuel in the port of Vlissingen, in collaboration with Dutch biofuel provider GoodFuels and vessel owner NYK, marking another significant milestone in UECC’s commitment to environmental sustainability.
This operation marks the first time a UECC time-chartered vessel, m/v Emerald Leader, has been bunkered with biofuel, further solidifying UECC's position as a leader in sustainable maritime transport.
The successful biofuel bunkering operation was made possible through the close partnership between UECC, GoodFuels, and NYK. GoodFuels, the leading biofuels provider for the global transport industry, delivered the B30 blend - 470 tonnes of VLSFO and sustainable biofuel - to UECC in the port of Vlissingen, Netherlands, on 27 May, 2023. NYK, the joint owner of UECC, provided invaluable technical support throughout the operation and is working closely with UECC to monitor the biofuel's performance on m/v Emerald Leader.
GoodFuels’ biofuel, which reduces CO2 emissions by up to 90% compared to conventional fossil fuels, is sourced from renewable and sustainable feedstocks that are certified as 100% waste or residue, and do not compete with food production or cause deforestation. By incorporating this biofuel into its operations, UECC is taking a proactive approach to reducing its environmental impact while delivering cleaner and more sustainable transportation to customers across Europe.
"This momentous delivery of next-generation biofuel represents another significant step forward in our sustainability journey," said Mr. Daniel Gent, Energy and Sustainability Manager for UECC. "We are proud to partner with GoodFuels and NYK to bring this innovative and environmentally friendly solution to our customers. By bunkering biofuel for the first time on a UECC time-chartered vessel, we demonstrate our unwavering commitment to reducing our carbon footprint and providing cleaner transportation options."
"We are thrilled to partner with UECC and NYK to deliver our advanced sustainable biofuel for the first time to m/v Emerald Leader," said Bernard van Haeringen, Commercial Manager at GoodFuels. "This collaboration showcases the commitment of all parties involved to combatting climate change and accelerating the energy transition in the shipping industry. We are confident that biofuels will play a crucial role in decarbonising the maritime sector."
The utilisation of advanced sustainable biofuel on the Emerald Leader, which operates on UECC's North South Trade, connecting the Eastern Mediterranean with Northern Europe, will significantly reduce the carbon intensity of UECC's operations. This milestone underscores UECC's determination to provide sustainable transportation solutions to its customers while contributing to the global efforts of mitigating climate change.
UECC, GoodFuels, and NYK remain committed to monitoring the performance of the biofuel on the Emerald Leader, gathering valuable data and insights to further advance the use of sustainable biofuels in the maritime industry. Together, these industry leaders are paving the way for a greener, more sustainable future, ensuring a cleaner and more efficient shipping sector.
KR grants AiP to K Shipbuilding and ForceTEC for ship cyber resilience design technology
Korean Register (KR) is pleased to announce that it has awarded an AiP (Approval in Principle) to K Shipbuilding and ForceTEC for their design technology focusing on ship cyber resilience, in accordance with the International Association of Classification Societies (IACS) Unified Requirement (UR) E26.
In a collaborative effort that began in January 2023, KR, K Shipbuilding, and ForceTEC embarked on a joint research project aimed at applying and validating the rules of ship cyber resilience, demonstrating their proactive response to the forthcoming adoption of IACS UR E26.
IACS UR E26, which was introduced in April 2022, establishes unified requirements for cyber resilience in ships. It will become mandatory for vessels contracted for construction from January 2024. Ship cyber resilience encompasses a range of measures aimed at reducing cyber accidents and mitigating their impact on the computer-based systems utilized for safe navigation and the protection of the marine environment.
Within the framework of this collaborative project, K Shipbuilding and ForceTEC undertook the design of the ship's navigational communication system and engine control system, incorporating cyber resilience considerations. They established a response system by formulating a basic design and test methodology, guided by a cyber risk management framework.
KR has verified the feasibility, safety, and suitability of the cyber resilience concept design, resulting in the granting of the AiP.
KIM Daeheon, Executive Vice President of KR’s R&D Division, stated: “The results of this successful joint research with K shipbuilding served as an opportunity to prove KR’s excellent cyber resilience design verification and on-site inspection technology. We will further strengthen our capabilities in cyber resilience technology.”
KOH Taehyun, CTO of K Shipbuilding, commented: “Certification of cyber resilience technology that meets the IACS rules is an important step to demonstrate the technology and reliability of K Shipbuilding. Being the first mid-sized shipbuilder in the world certified in this technology, we will provide safety-centered smart green vessels.”
Kim Sangyong, President & CEO of ForceTEC, added: “I am delighted that ForceTEC is conducting joint research with K shipbuilding and KR and is recognized for our technology at the initial stage of starting maritime cyber security business. We will continuously invest in research and development to improve our technologies and contribute to the development of the maritime security industry.”
Stream Marine Training strengthens its offshore industry offering of OPITO-approved safety training courses
Leading maritime safety training provider Stream Marine Training (SMT) is delighted to announce plans to offer a wider range of Offshore Petroleum Industry Training Organisation (OPITO)-approved courses.
SMT, part of the Stream Marine Group, has started offering a wider portfolio of OPITO courses this summer to ensure companies in the offshore industry can have all their training needs covered in one place.
UK’s largest short-course provider, SMT, has launched the OPITO courses now they are fully approved. It previously offered courses in emergency response only but is now delighted with this expansion.
The BOSIET (Basic Offshore Safety Induction and Emergency Training), FOET (Further Offshore Emergency Training) and MIST (Minimum Industry Safety Training) have been in development since last year, and now fully approved means SMT will offer a full range of OPITO courses, ensuring companies can have all their training needs covered at SMT’s facilities in Glasgow.
SMT is the UK’s largest short course maritime safety training provider and has been at the forefront of maritime training since its inception in 2014, beginning with basic STCW (Standards of Training, Certification and Watchkeeping) courses.
Since then, it has expanded to three sites and recently installed a Global Wind Organisation Training tower for its working at height and advanced rescue training courses The UK Government has committed to achieving 'net zero' greenhouse gas emissions by the year 2050, and SMT has also pledged to achieve this and is therefore deeply passionate about providing the best training for future energy sources.
Martin White, CEO, said: “We are delighted to be offering a wide range of OPITO-approved courses to provide the best level of training to anyone working in the offshore industry. We previously offered emergency response training courses but are delighted to add to our portfolio and offering to the offshore industry, so that companies can cover all their training needs through us.”
The full range of basic and further OPITO training courses will cover training programme including emergency response training for both team leaders and team members, safety induction and emergency training, helicopter underwater escape training, as well as the Minimum Industry Safety Training Standard.
Full details of SMT training courses can be found at: www.streammarinetraining.com
ABS approves latest liquified carbon dioxide vessels for PETRONAS, MOL and SDARI
New vessel designs to carry and store liquified carbon dioxide (LCO2) from PETRONAS, Mitsui O.S.K. Lines (MOL) and Shanghai Merchant Ship Design and Research Institute (SDARI) have received approval in principle (AiP) from ABS.
Designs for a 96,000m3 LCO2 floating storage and offloading (FSO) unit and an 87,000m3 LCO2 carrier were reviewed in accordance with the latest ABS Rules.
“Safe and efficient transport and storage of LCO2 is a developmental cornerstone of the carbon value chain, which has such a critical role to play in the energy transition,” said Arnab Ghosh, ABS Vice President, Regional Business Development. “ABS is proud to be able to use our industry leading expertise in the development of LCO2 carriers to support adoption of these important new assets with an unwavering focus on safety.”
Datuk Adif Zulkifli, Executive Vice President and Chief Executive Officer of Upstream PETRONAS, said, “LCO2 carriers for CO2 transportation play a key role in the carbon capture and storage (CCS) value chain. The attainment of the AiPs further strengthens PETRONAS’ commitment to providing decarbonization solutions, aligned with our aspiration to establish Malaysia as a leading CCS hub in the region.”
“SDARI is delighted to join the innovative project with PETRONAS and MOL,” said Zhou Zhiyong, Vice President of SDARI. “The concepts will be essential to LCO2 transportation and operation and will boost CCS development in the maritime industry.”
“MOL is pleased with our achievement of the various designs of LCO2 carrier and FSO in cooperation with PETRONAS and SDARI,” said Nobuo Shiotsu, Senior Managing Executive Officer of MOL. “Developing it in large scale is an essential step for the CCS value chain within the Asia Pacific and Oceania region.”
ClassNK receives approval from AMP to use FURUNO HermAce as alternative to VDR APT
ClassNK has received approval from the Panama Maritime Authority (AMP) to accept HermAce developed by FURUNO ELECTRIC CO., LTD (FURUNO) as an alternative for the onboard Annual Performance Test (APT) of the Voyage Data Recorder (VDR). It is now possible to conduct VDR APT remotely for Panamanian flagged vessels registered with ClassNK.
SOLAS requires a VDR to have an APT with a qualified engineer visiting the vessel annually to check the operation and record voyage information, etc. HermAce is a solution that allows remote monitoring of the operational status of FURUNO's navigation equipment, including a VDR.
With HermAce, Engineers can conduct performance tests equivalent to conventional methods even in remote locations by checking remote diagnosis utilizing real-time and historical data, etc. ClassNK issued its Innovation Endorsement for Products & Solutions to HermAce in February of this year.
Based on the efficacy of the functions verified through this certification, ClassNK has obtained approval from the AMP for the use of HermAce as an alternative means of onboard APT for ships registered with ClassNK. This is the first time the AMP has granted this kind of approval.
Samuel I. Guevara G., Chief of Segumar–Tokyo, General Directorate of Merchant Marine, Panama Maritime Authority said: “The Panama ship registry is very happy to work together with NK and FURUNO in the modernization and inclusion of new technology to perform inspections in a more efficient and effective manner, the inclusion of new technologies allows the industry not only to save costs but also to reduce emissions”
Mr. Kazuma Waimatsu, Senior Executive Officer, FURUNO said: “We are proud that with the support of ClassNK, we have successfully implemented this remote service on Panamanian flagged vessels. It both improves convenience and peace of mind for the customers who equipped with VDR. Furuno will continue contributing to the future IT-ization of the maritime industry through various digitalization efforts.”
Mr. Junzo Nakamura, Corporate Officer/Director of Survey Operations Division, ClassNK said: “We are honoured that the remote VDR APT in ClassNK registered ships equipped with FURUNO HermAce has been recognized by AMP. The approval from the world’s largest flag state, in terms of gross tonnage, is a milestone toward incorporating intelligent and efficient technology into ship maintenance practices.”
WinGD and AET sign ammonia engines and training collaboration agreement
Swiss marine power company WinGD has entered into a collaboration agreement with ship owner and operator AET and maritime academy Akademi Laut Malaysia (ALAM), both part of MISC Group, to develop technology and training for ammonia engines.
The agreement will see the partners work towards the potential introduction of X-DF-A ammonia-fuelled engines on vessels which would be among the first ammonia dual-fuelled tankers in the world. The project timeframe is in line with WinGD’s previously announced roadmap, bringing the first engines for Suezmax or Aframax tankers into service from 2025.
Zahid Osman, President & CEO, AET said: “I am pleased that we were able to formalise the collaboration with WinGD to develop the required ammonia engines and training materials that will help seafarers to safely manage the new generation of zero emission vessels. The outcomes of this collaboration will support AET and MISC Group to deliver on our commitment to deliver more energy with lower emission.”
WinGD will develop a crew training syllabus and support its implementation, preparing some of the first seafarers in the world on ammonia-fuelled vessels to handle the new fuel and engines with confidence. The arrangement will provide the opportunity for ALAM to train its seafarers and supervisors on the operation, maintenance, monitoring, repair and health and safety procedures specific to the new engines.
Rudolph Holtbecker, Director Operations WinGD said: “This cooperation between engine designer, shipowner and training institution marks a powerful push towards realising the potential of ammonia as a maritime fuel. As well as preparing our engines for integration within a key vessel type, the training developed under this project will also feed into the knowledge pool needed for operators and their crews to confidently, safely and efficiently operate these new fuelled vessels.”
Long-term ocean freight rates down almost 50% over last three months: Xeneta
The beleaguered carrier industry took another major hit in June, with the latest data from Xeneta’s Shipping Index (XSI®) showing a decline of 9.4% in global long-term shipping rates. Following on the heels of a 27.5% collapse in May, and a 10.3% fall in April, contracted rates have now shed 47.2% of their value in the last three months alone, and 51.7% over the course of 2023.
Xeneta’s real-time data, crowd-sourced from leading global shippers, shows falls in the prices of valid long-term contracts across all key trading corridors. The uniform declines have now pushed the XSI® to a 23-month low, with, as Xeneta CEO Patrik Berglund (pictured) points out, little hope of a turnaround on the industry horizon.
He notes: “The fall from the peaks of last year have almost been as dramatic as the rates explosion which gave carriers such a profitable 2022. Those higher rates now appear to be a distant memory, while 2023 is becoming quite challenging. A fall of almost 50% in contracted prices in just three months on the XSI® is highly unusual.
“Furthermore, with on-going weak demand, continuing macroeconomic and geopolitical uncertainty, and a growing excess of capacity, it’s difficult to see how the industry can turn this current trend around – at least in the short-term.”
Xeneta’s data demonstrates a case of ‘the bigger they are, the harder they fall’, with huge declines for the year to date on the main container corridors. The Far East export benchmark, a key link in the global supply chain, has, Berglund remarks, steeply declined since December 2022, shedding 65.3% of its value. Meanwhile, the US import sub-index is down 56.3% for the year, with the European import benchmark declining 46.2%. The opposing European export figure fared only slightly better, down 38.3%.
“If we sift through those headline figures and look at individual trades, we see some eye-catching reversals in fortune over the first six months of the year,” Berglund notes. “For example, China to North Europe and Indian West Coast & Pakistan to North Europe are two trades that have racked up total declines of more than 70% since the end of last year. Taiwan to the Mediterranean and Taiwan to North Europe have also plummeted from the heights of 2022, with falls of 65.5% for 2023 to date.
“There really are very few bright spots with the only exception this month being the trade lane from South America East Coast to China, which is up by 11% month-on-month. Hardly enough to lift the hopes of anyone within the carrier community. ”
Xeneta’s in-depth analysis shows a decline in all import and export benchmark figures for all regions. In Europe, the import sub-index hit a 24-month low point, falling 9.4% since May, while the export figure dropped for the third consecutive month, declining 5.1%. The XSI® for Far East exports lost 13.9% of its value in June and has now slumped by 69.5% since its peak last year. The back-haul regional import trade has experienced a more muted decline, with a fall of 6.7% in June and 35.4% for the year to date.
The story continues on the US sub-indexes, with an 11% drop on the import benchmark pushing it to an 18-month low. The export back-haul figure recorded a 4.3% fall.
“One is left wondering where this will all end,” Berglund concludes. “If we look at volumes, there are some figures that suggest things might not be as bad as they first appear – with US container exports actually increasing for the for the first four months of the year, by 1.8% year-on-year, while inbound container demand for Europe ‘only’ declined by 1.1% for the same period. But again, those figures have to be seen against a wider backdrop of declining global demand, easing port congestion and increased capacity – all factors that exert downward pressure on rates.
“It’s perhaps more telling to consider the recent development of the key Far East XSI® export index. Here we see single-digit month-on-month declines from February to April, accelerating to double-digit drops for the last two months. This is a clear indication of weakening demand from essential Western markets and a worrying omen for the major players in this fast-paced, always evolving shipping segment.”
SEA-LNG coalition calls on IMO to regulate all GHG emissions on a full lifecycle basis
Clear and consistent regulation is key to driving maritime decarbonisation. With this in mind, and ahead of the IMO 80th Marine Environment Protection Committee (MEPC 80), industry association SEA-LNG calls on the IMO to regulate all greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions from shipping, including carbon dioxide, methane, and nitrous oxide on a full lifecycle, Well-to-Wake, basis. IMO regulation should be goal-based and technology neutral with the ambition of achieving convergence between global and regional measures, it says.
At MEPC 80, the IMO is set to revise its Initial Strategy on the Reduction of Greenhouse Gas Emissions from Ships. The revised strategy will contain concrete GHG reduction targets for the sector and is expected to outline a basket of technical and economic measures to be developed to set global shipping on an ambitious path towards aligning with Paris Climate Agreement targets.
Methane emissions associated with the use of LNG as a marine fuel, in particular methane slip in engine combustion cycles, is a topic that has the maritime industry’s complete attention. The industry has made great strides to reduce methane slip on a voluntary basis.
Engine technologies already exist with virtually no methane slip, and for those low-pressure engines where it remains an issue, continuing innovations by engine manufacturers have resulted in levels of methane slip falling four-fold over the past 20 years. Further, specific programmes have recently been set up with the aim of addressing methane slip, such as the Methane Abatement in Maritime Innovation Initiative (MAMII) and the Green Ray project.
Furthermore, upstream emissions of methane are being addressed by a number of United Nations (UN) and industry initiatives. The highest profile of these is the Global Methane Pledge (GMP), launched at COP26 in November 2021 to catalyse action to reduce methane emissions.
Voluntary initiatives are to be encouraged and applauded but progress needs to be accelerated if the 1.5 degrees Celsius temperature goal of the Paris Agreement is to be met. The most effective way of doing this is through regulation.
While the mandate of the IMO does not extend to fuel production and supply chains, any GHG regulations developed by the IMO need to take into account upstream, or so called Well-to-Tank emissions. In other words, regulations must be based on a full lifecycle, Well-to-Wake, approach.
Finally, in addressing GHG emissions, the IMO should continue with its current approach and resist picking technology ‘winners’, says SEA-LNG. Regulations should be goal-based and technology neutral and coherence should be sought with the Fit for 55 package of regulations currently being developed under the European Green Deal. The maritime sector cannot risk the emergence of a fragmented patchwork of global and regional regulations which could create confusion, conflicting incentives and ultimately, delay, it warns
Peter Keller, Chairman, SEA-LNG, said: “Shipping is unlikely to achieve its decarbonisation targets without a basket of fuels. Conducting comprehensive Well-to-Wake analysis is the only way to accurately compare the viability of all marine fuels.”
IACS elects new Chair at Council's 87th Session
The IACS (International Association of Classification Societies) Council met in Gdansk, Poland this week for its 87th session (C87) where decarbonisation was high on the agenda and new Chair Mr. Roberto Cazzulo (pictured) of RINA was elected as from 1 January 2024.
IACS Council welcomed the recent decision by IMO to adopt a new output to develop a framework for the safe decarbonisation of shipping, the result of a two-year effort by IACS to ensure that critical safety concerns were not overlooked in the collective drive to lower carbon emissions as far and as quickly as possible. In support of the work at IMO, C87 also noted the rapid progress being made by the Safe Decarbonisation Panel with regards to alternative fuels and new technologies along with the provision of expert input to a wide range of industry and regulatory forums addressing CO2 reduction measures.
C87 further agreed to sign a Letter of Intent with the Singapore MPA to work with them to accelerate the safe and practical implementation of low or zero carbon technologies, through increased collaboration and information sharing.
Recognising the power of digitalisation to support and drive decarbonisation, C87 also committed to optimising its various working groups engaged in the digital transformation of the industry to ensure IACS plays its full role in supporting industry on this journey.
Quality matters featured heavily in discussions with C87 welcoming the fact that all Members had successfully met their triennial assessment to ensure that they have remained in constant compliance with the IACS Membership criteria. Also on Quality matters, Council welcomed that each member has had its quality performance endorsed by IQARB and emphasised its commitment to the strengthening of IQARB and to seeing it established as a permanent entity with appropriate secretariat support.
C87 recognised the potentially significant impact the EU’s Maritime Safety Package could have on their work as Recognised Organisations and committed to working constructively with the Commission on its development. Also in an EU context, C87 also reviewed IACS’ ongoing contributions to EU environmental legislation stemming from the ‘Fit for 55 package’ and particularly around the inclusion of shipping in the EU ETS and the Fuel EU Maritime Regulation.
Finally, and to ensure continuity in its extensive work programme and engagement with industry, C87 elected Mr. Roberto Cazzulo of RINA as the incoming Chair of IACS as from 1 Jan 2024.
Speaking at the end of C87 IACS Chair, Nick Brown of Lloyd’s Register, stated: “IACS significant contributions to safe decarbonisation, both in terms of keeping safety at the forefront of IMO discussions and through the substantive technical contributions it is making to support the introduction of alternative fuels and technologies, demonstrate the value that a non-commercial, impartial association brings to this debate.” He went on to congratulate Roberto on his election and looked forward to a smooth handover over the next six months.
Responding, Mr. Cazzulo said: “It is an honour for me to be elected and I look forward to building on the excellent work done by Nick Brown in ensuring IACS is well positioned to meet the environmental and technological challenges faced by shipping.”
Multi-billion dollar opportunities for Plymouth and the South West
In a keynote speech to the UK South West’s business leaders, the University of Plymouth’s Vice-Chancellor has outlined the enormous potential for the region in harnessing the power of the oceans – including billions of dollars in global investment.
Speaking at the South West Business Council’s annual dinner, sponsored by the University, last night (Thursday 29 June) Professor Judith Petts CBE (pictured) pledged to continue working hard to leverage the University’s global excellence in marine renewable energy and more, for the wider benefit of the region.
Focusing on energy as an area where the South West can generate massive investment and growth – notably through the unique opportunity presented by the development of floating offshore wind (FLOW) turbines in the Celtic Sea – Prof. Petts said: “Our collective ethos is to use our knowledge for action, solving global challenges, through working in partnership with business and others.
“It is appropriate here in Britain’s Ocean City to focus on one of these global challenges where the University’s research is genuinely world leading – sustainable exploitation of our oceans which has the potential to create thousands of high value jobs in our region.
“In a world where a predicted population of 9 billion will place unsustainable demands on the terrestrial environment, the oceans will become more and more important.”
The University of Plymouth is at the forefront of offshore renewable energy (ORE) education, research and innovation. Its state-of-the-art facilities are unrivalled across the ORE sector; the national hub for ORE research and innovation is at the University and it is home to the UK Floating Offshore Wind Turbine Test Facility.
The Vice-Chancellor cited the work of the University’s Professor Deborah Greaves OBE (who also attended the dinner) in leading the Supergen ORE Hub, a £9 million (to date) investment that brings together universities and industry from across the UK to accelerate the development of offshore renewable technologies.
From the University’s investment in a wave tank, 12 years ago, further significant investment and many millions of external funding are supporting the growth of Floating Offshore Wind.
The tank is part of the University’s COAST Laboratory which provides physical model testing with combined waves, currents and wind, offered at scales appropriate for device testing, array testing, environmental modelling and coastal engineering.
In 2022, the Maritime Simulation Laboratory opened; it runs maritime scenarios in real time and includes a new Dynamic Positioning simulator which is already being used by offshore wind developers to verify, test and optimise installation and maintenance projects.
And, as the world becomes increasingly dependent on maritime operations, the use of autonomous systems needs to increase, being more efficient, safer and better for the environment. Plymouth is recognised as a centre of excellence for marine autonomy and home to the National Centre for Coastal Autonomy (NCCA) which is led by the University, Plymouth Marine Laboratory and the Marine Biological Association.
Autonomy requires cyber security and the University’s nationally unique £3.2 million Cyber-SHIP Lab brings together an endlessly configurable host of connected maritime systems to effectively become a physical twin of any ship’s bridge. It is a focus for training, policy development and commercial testing in the UK and globally.
Prof. Petts continued: “Plymouth has a unique blend of geographical, physical, business and intellectual assets that makes is the ideal place to test, trial and deploy autonomous systems, for which the predicted global market growth is $136 billion over the next 15 years.
“The value of securing even 10% of this market is clear. One estimate suggests that use of autonomous rather than traditional vessels can save 98% of the cost of deployment and maintenance of offshore renewable energy arrays.”
Smart Sound Plymouth is the UK's premier proving area for designing, testing and developing cutting edge products and services for the marine sector. The University is currently deploying an underwater acoustic communications network that will link to the existing surface communications network, creating the only facility of its type in the UK.
The Vice-Chancellor cited the project as an example of the importance of partnership, both in the integration of technologies and in the development of the skills needed for these growing industries.
The University is working with City College Plymouth to develop a skills escalator and ensure that businesses and individuals can access the skills needed for the rapidly growing autonomy and marine technology markets.
Beyond addressing regional, national and global challenges, Prof. Petts concluded on a local note, citing the success of partnerships in securing the country’s first National Marine Park in Plymouth Sound.
She added: “How we value and work in harmony with the natural environment to deliver the greatest benefit for all is both a local and a global issue, with links to health, culture and the economy.
“We will continue to work hard to leverage our global excellence for the benefit of the region. We are pleased to be a member of, and support, the SWBC and look forward to continuing to work with it and others for the benefit of all.”
Torvald Klaveness and Marubeni embark on new phase of partnership
After three successful years as joint partners of Baumarine by MaruKlav, the world's largest Panamax Pool, both parties are excited to reveal the signing of a new agreement to expand the partnership. The new deal sees Marubeni invest in a 25% stake of Klaveness Dry Bulk, underscoring our mutual commitment to innovation through collaboration.
The deal includes the operating arm Klaveness Chartering, the Baumarine Pool and Market Manager, a recently commercialized digital offering that empowers freight decision-makers to make better-informed decisions and drive new value for their companies.
Michael Jørgensen (pictured, centre), EVP and Head of Klaveness Dry Bulk, comments: "Since day one, we have enjoyed a close and mutually beneficial collaboration with Marubeni. I am proud that we can now take the next step and continue our journey together, helping our clients fulfill their purpose and overcome challenges, while driving our innovative and transformative organizations forward."
Mr. Toru Okazaki (pictured, right), Chief Operating Officer, Aerospace & Ship Division of Marubeni Corporation, adds: "The Torvald Klaveness group and Klaveness Dry Bulk have delivered significant results, not only for the Marubeni fleet but also for Panamax owners in Baumarine by MaruKlav as a whole. They have consistently demonstrated an innovative approach to securing the best earnings management through, for example, the fixed rate conversion at peak scheme. We see them driving a high level of client focus throughout the activities, something that will only become increasingly important in this dynamic dry bulk shipping industry.
“We are excited about the road ahead and eager to actively contribute to delivering on our ambitious strategy, transforming not only our joint setup but also the industry."
Ernst Meyer (pictured, left), Klaveness CEO, emphasizes the significance of this milestone for the Torvald Klaveness group, adding: "Klaveness Dry Bulk is a digitalized shipping company with a focus on win-win solutions for cargo and ship owners, leading to more efficient trades and lower carbon emissions. With Marubeni as a partner, we will boost our positive impact on maritime supply chains and create more value for both companies.”
The agreement was signed yesterday and is subject to regulatory clearance. The closing of the transaction is expected to take place in the third quarter of 2023.
INTERCARGO statement: IMO’s mid-term decarbonisation measures should be simple and effective
As the industry gears up for next week’s much anticipated MEPC 80 (Marine Environment Protect Committee) meeting, INTERCARGO Secretary General Kostas Gkonis (pictured) has reiterated the importance that mid-term measures to help the IMO’s decarbonisation ambitions should be both simple and effective, so as to be efficiently implemented by ships worldwide.
Dr Gkonis was commenting on the IMO’s 15th session of the Intersessional Working Group on the Reduction of GHG Emissions from Ships in support of the paper submitted by ICS “ISWG-GHG 15/3/7 - Further information about a basket of measures combining an IMSF&R (Fund and Reward) mechanism (economic measure) and a Global (GHG) Fuel Standard (technical measure)”.
He congratulated the IMO Secretariat for the hard work and commitment to their difficult task and thanked all those who had submitted papers, adding that representing the dry bulk sector – arguably the most efficient cargo carriage mode on earth - INTERCARGO has done much itself to support measures to decarbonise the industry and achieve net zero emission shipping by 2050.
This has included, in previous meetings, promoting the concept of Green Hubs for developing the necessary infrastructure to ensure availability of low/zero carbon fuels in ports around the world, and supporting along with its industry partners the establishment of an international maritime research fund for decarbonising shipping.
Regarding medium-term measures, Dr Gkonis referred to INTERCARGO’s written submissions in early 2021 to MEPC for taking forward and implementing mandatory market-based measures for international shipping, while soon after and five intersessional meetings ago, INTERCARGO, after years of championing the concept in industry deliberations, was a frontrunner along with ICS in putting forward a levy-based MBM, per tonne of CO2 emissions, to expedite the uptake and deployment of zero-carbon fuels.
“Since then, our Association has consistently supported in principle the revised proposals aptly developed by the industry body, the International Chamber of Shipping,” he said.
“On this occasion, INTERCARGO reiterates the importance that the basket of mid-term measures should be both simple and effective, so as to be efficiently implemented by ships worldwide.
“In this respect we express our support for the revised International Maritime Sustainability Fund & Reward mechanism, including the establishment of an IMO Maritime Sustainability Fund as in paper ISWG-GHG 15/3/7 by ICS and its combination with a simpler design of the Global GHG Fuel Standard, a technical measure as in document ISWG-GHG 15/3/6 again by ICS.”
The IMO is currently in the process of revising its Green House Gas (GHG) Strategy and the much anticipated MEPC 80 meeting will take place from 3-7 July.
INTERCARGO fully supports the IMO’s ambition to achieve net zero emission shipping by 2050, however, it stresses that the responsibility for decarbonisation cannot be placed solely on the shoulders of the ship operator – it is a challenge that must be dealt with holistically by the entire supply chain. See link here: https://www.intercargo.org/media-release-dont-regulate-shipping-in-isolation/
ClassNK approves ammonia and liquefied CO2 carrier developed by Mitsubishi Shipbuilding and NYK Line
ClassNK has issued an Approval in Principle (AiP) for an ammonia and liquefied CO2 (LCO2) carrier which has been jointly developed by Mitsubishi Shipbuilding Co., Ltd. and Nippon Yusen Kabushiki Kaisha (NYK Line).
Ammonia is projected to be widely used as a source of clean energy for decarbonization since it does not emit CO2 when combusted, and is expected to be increasingly transported by sea. On the other hand, efforts toward carbon dioxide capture, utilization, and storage (CCUS), a process that captures emitted CO2 and either uses it as a resource or stores it in a stable underground geological formation, are also progressing. The necessity of LCO2 carriers has been highlighted for the efficient transport of captured CO2 to facilities for utilization and storage sites.
The ammonia and LCO2 carrier developed by Mitsubishi Shipbuilding and NYK Line is designed to carry both ammonia and LCO2 safely and economically using the same carrier. The carrier enables operations such as transporting ammonia to thermal power plants on the outbound route and transporting CO2 emitted from thermal power plants to storage sites on the return route.
ClassNK carried out the design review of the ammonia and LCO2 carrier based on its Part N of Rules for the Survey and Construction of Steel Ships incorporating the IGC Code. Upon confirming it complies with the prescribed requirements, ClassNK issued the AiP.
AkzoNobel says it can help shipowners save $100k a year from new EU carbon levy
AkzoNobel is supporting the marine industry to mitigate emissions and help shipowners navigate upcoming additional costs, or risk facing an additional six-figure levy annually once new EU Emissions Trading Scheme (ETS) legislation comes into force from 2024.
The EU ETS carbon levy will affect all CO2 emissions on shipping journeys to and from an EU port, including when the vessel is docked. Emissions on voyages in and out of the EU will be ‘taxed’ at 50%, unless the journey is less than 300 nautical miles where a 100% tariff applies. Methane and nitrous oxide will also come under the scheme from 2026.
The carbon tax is about $85 per tonne of CO2 emitted and under the plan, fines will increase over time with an initial allowance of 45% of emissions paid from next year increasing to 75% in 2025, and moving up to 100% from 2026.
AkzoNobel’s marine coatings business has been working with its customers to navigate these latest changes to both law and emission charges, as part of an ambition to lead the way in decarbonising the marine industry.
While the industry is aware of the scheme, many could be unaware of the sheer impact that the right coatings choice could have on this levy and their vessels performance.
“The goal of the new legislation is to compel ship owners to actively reduce their CO2 emissions”, explains Chris Birkert (pictured), AkzoNobel Marine’s Coatings Segment Manager. “Shipowners are facing a wide range of legislative changes already and there is more on the horizon with the IMO indicating that they will bring their own additional measures in to drive essential reductions in CO2 emissions.
“In response, there is an almost never-ending line of new technological advancements that promise to help in cutting emissions.
“However, through our advanced data scientist capabilities, we’ve been looking to model these changes alongside our coatings schemes to calculate the real financial impact that specifying the right coatings scheme can make.
“We already know, from years of in-service track record, that Intercept® 8500LPP, for example, can deliver a high level of fuel savings.
“However, this combined with the work our data scientists have delivered puts this into real terms and is aligned with the guidance of changing legislation.
“Our International® HullCare package helps shipowners to accurately track, maintain and report on hull performance and when matched with our most technologically advanced coatings, Intercept® 8500 and Intersleek®1100SR, we are able to demonstrate beyond doubt both the reduction on CO2 and the fuel saving, which outweighs the initial cost of investment over a five-year period.
“We’re actively working with shipowners who are already hitting the CO2 targets and are reaping the benefits commercially - including making a saving of more than $550,000 in fuel across the five-year period. We’re inviting other owners and operators within the industry to work with us on how best to hit their own emissions targets via the use of the right coatings schemes and hull performance package.”
EU Wind Assisted Ship Propulsion project concludes with significant positive impact
The EU-Interreg North Sea Region project ‘WASP: Wind Assisted Ship Propulsion’ has officially concluded with five commercial vessels retrofitted with wind-assist systems, three different wind propulsion technologies tested, and third-party validations conducted to verify actual fuel savings achieved. Other key deliverables concerning performance indicators, standard sea trials, decision making tools have also been concluded.
Funded by the Interreg North Sea Europe programme, part of the European Regional Development Fund (ERDF), the ‘WASP: Wind Assisted Ship Propulsion’ project brought universities, wind-assist technology providers and ship owners together to research, trial and validate the operational performance of a selection of wind propulsion solutions.
After three and a half years the project has generated a significant stream of much-needed information and transparency around wind propulsion technology selection, installation and operation, contributing greatly to the general development of the wind-assist sector both in the North Sea region and beyond.
The five installations of wind propulsion technology will continue to serve as examples of how wind propulsion systems can be deployed as retrofits on various different vessels. As expected, fuel savings from these systems are variable, delivering up to 10% saving depending on the route and vessel operational profile. These installations have also contributed to the generation of three points of reference for different wind propulsion technologies and shipping segments that will support ship owners to make investment decisions going forward.
Marko Möller, Manager Special Projects at Scandlines, one of the ship owning companies involved in the WASP project, reflects: “We are proud to be part of this amazing project. By the WASP installations realised and evaluated during the project lifetime, wind technology proved to be an important element of the decarbonisation process of shipping. For Scandlines, the positive results were a decisive factor to install another rotor sail on the sister ferry of the ‘Copenhagen’.”
Johan Boomsma, Co-owner of Boomsma Shipping, another of the ship owning companies involved in the project says: “We believe energy efficiency is key and are always open to new developments. That is why we are sailing with the eConowind VentiFoils on mv Frisian Sea. I think the three major factors - unit costs, fuel prices and European ETS legislation - are combining in such a way that wind-assisted propulsion will soon become one of the standard solutions."
The WASP project has also played a key role in developing standard procedures for sea trials for wind propulsion technology-equipped vessels and the creation of standards for KPI’s in collaboration with the International Towing Tank Conference (ITTC). These are significant developments that reduce the barriers for the uptake of wind propulsion solutions.
In addition to the vessel installations, the project has had a strong focus on the educational field. Twelve key educational events have been held at project partner universities along with others in Enkhuizen Maritime Academy, the Delft Technical University and the World Maritime University.
Although the project has drawn to a close, the continued use of the deliverables from the project’s four work packages will help to inform the industry and policy makers going forward. The project has already contributed to a far better informed shipping sector in the EU when it comes to wind propulsion technologies and the North Sea region continues to be at the forefront of developments in the field.
The International Windship Association (IWSA), a key partner in the project, has pledged to continue to integrate the deliverables from the WASP Project into its work and to also maintain the expert database on the IWSA website.
Professor Maximo Q. Mejia, Jr. takes the helm at WMU
On 29 June, Professor Maximo Q. Mejia, Jr. assumed office as the eighth President of the World Maritime University (WMU). Appointed by the Secretary-General of the IMO, who also serves as Chancellor of the University, President Mejia assumes the role of Chief Executive Officer, overseeing and directing the academic programmes, operations and administration of the University. Professor Mejia is the first President from Asia and the first President who is a graduate of WMU.
Regarding his appointment, President Mejia said, “I thank the IMO Secretary-General and WMU Chancellor for granting me the esteemed privilege to lead the World Maritime University. Our unique connection to the IMO, our extensive global network, and our stellar postgraduate education prepare WMU graduates to serve as a force for good in the maritime and oceans sectors. I look forward to leading our eminent maritime and oceans scholars, researchers, and professionals to increase global capacity building in support of a blue economy.”
President Mejia is an accomplished global leader and scholar in maritime governance, policy, and administration. With over three decades of professional and academic experience, Professor Mejia is a passionate international advocate for the promotion of safe, secure, sustainable, and efficient shipping on clean oceans. He joined the WMU Faculty in 1998 and has held various positions within the University including Director of the PhD Programme, Head of the Maritime Law and Policy Specialization, Associate Academic Dean, and Nippon Foundation Professor of Maritime Policy, Governance, and Administration.
Professor Mejia served as Administrator/Director General at the Maritime Industry Authority (MARINA) from 2013 to 2016, heading the government agency responsible for integrating the development, promotion, and regulation of the maritime industry in the Philippines. From 1988 to 1998, he progressively held various positions in the Philippine Navy and Philippine Coast Guard including Assistant Chief of Staff for Navigational Safety and Deputy Executive Director of the Multisectoral Task Force on Maritime Development.
In 2013, Professor Mejia was included in the Lloyd’s List 100 Most Influential Persons in the Shipping Industry. He has served on several senior diplomatic assignments including Head of Delegation of the Philippines to IMO meetings (2013 -2016), Special Envoy of the President of the Philippines to the Inauguration of the Expanded Panama Canal (2016), and Chairperson of the 31st ASEAN Maritime Transport Working Group (2016).
The World Maritime University (WMU) in Malmö, Sweden is a postgraduate maritime university founded in 1983 by the International Maritime Organization (IMO), a specialized agency of the United Nations. The mission of WMU is to be the world centre of excellence in postgraduate maritime and oceans education, professional training and research, while building global capacity and promoting sustainable development. WMU is an organization by and for the international maritime community and is committed to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals Agenda.
President Marcos Jr uses Shipping Summit to reiterate his directive to prepare seafarers for a decarbonised future
The International Chamber of Shipping (ICS), in collaboration with International Maritime Employers’ Council (IMEC) and the International Transport Workers’ Federation (ITF), together with the Filipino Shipowners’ Association (FSA), organised a summit focused on the contribution of seafarers in Manila, the Philippines last week (26 June 2023).
Fifteen governments from across the world were in attendance, led by President Ferdinand Romualdez Marcos Jr of the Philippines, engaging in open dialogue with the shipping industry to address the challenges ahead when it comes to the future seafaring workforce. A common thread could be seen throughout the sessions at the summit highlighting the importance of investing in seafarers. It was emphasised that shipping will be in a far more competitive world for a workforce and therefore the industry needs to find solutions for how best to attract the future seafarer.
Emanuele Grimaldi, Chairman of the International Chamber of Shipping, commented: “With the introduction of new fuels, ships, and technological advances, the role and concept of our seafarers will continue to evolve and change. Only through international collaboration, including both developed and developing worlds, can we meet the challenges ahead. This is not only through investing in our people but also keeping an open dialogue to ensure that we can recruit more people to this industry.”
“We are all aware that the number of seafarers is declining and without them the movement of global trade will suffer. We must support our seafarers and also show the important role that our seafarers can play to a country’s economy. As an industry we are ambitious, and we will move forward with tangible plans to build on the foundations we have made.”
A report commissioned by the ICS from the Institute of the Americas, titled ‘The Key Role of Seafarers in a Net-Zero World’, was launched at the Summit that examined the economic benefit seafarers contribute on nations’ GDP, job creation, connections with other sectors, maritime clusters, labour conditions, just transition challenges, and the importance of seafarer training and competence.
Using the Philippines as a case study the report highlighted how in the Philippines, seafarer remittances contributed considerably to the nation’s GDP in 2022. According to the report the Philippines has been the leading provider of sea-based workers since 1987. These seafarers play a significant and essential role to the country due to their significant contributions to economic activity, trade, employment, and expertise in various maritime-related sectors.
Leonardo Beltran, Former Deputy Secretary of Energy, Mexico and Advisor at the Evaluation and Learning Initiative of the Climate Investment Funds - Board of Sustainable Energy for All, authored the report and commented: “The Philippines is a great example of the substantial part that seafarers can play to the economy. Remittances play a sizable role in the Philippine economy and is widely recognised as the country with the largest remittances from seafarers.”
The Philippines Central Bank states that, in 2022, seafarer remittances accounted for at least 22% of all US dollar remittances from Filipino workers overseas (OFWs), he continued. In February 2022, it reported a record-breaking $34 billion in remittances (from all overseas Filipino workers) accounting for 8.9% of the country’s GDP.
Leonardo Beltran, continued: “The Philippines is geographically strategically located, with abundant maritime resources, a skilled workforce, and supportive policies to drive growth and development in the national economy and the global maritime industry. This is a prime example for the potential and opportunity to invest in the future seafarer. Without seafarers there is no global trade so we must look at solutions and engage in cross sectoral collaboration if the industry is to meet the challenges ahead.”
The report highlights the importance for governments to disaggregate industry sectors when calculating the value of foreign labour to domestic economic statistics.
A key outcome of the summit was the recognition that investment is needed at all levels in the recruitment, training and retention of seafarers and ICS, IMEC and ITF agreed work together to take forward to lessons from the summit and to work on a tangible plan including the identification of potential funding sources.
Seafarers play a critical role as the guardians of our oceans, MAJ webinar hears
The importance of seafarers in preserving the marine environment and ensuring international maritime regulations such as MARPOL (The International Convention for the Prevention of Pollution from Ships) are properly enforced was the focus of a high-level webinar, entitled ‘Seafarers, MARPOL and the Marine Environment’, hosted by the Maritime Authority of Jamaica as part of its Day of the Seafarer activities last week.
“Seafarers play a critical role as the guardians of our oceans,” commented leading Jamaican trade and development specialist Patricia Francis, former Assistant Secretary General and Executive Director of the International Trade Centre, a joint agency of the United Nations and the World Trade Organization, as well as the former President of Jamaica Promotions Corporation (JAMPRO).
Highlighting the actions Jamaica is taking to safeguard its marine environment, preserve fish populations, protect biodiversity, and ensure sustainability, Ms Francis challenged: “Why should we care?”.
She went on to outline the importance of the blue economy to Jamaica and the Caribbean region, spelling out the vital contribution the marine environment makes to Jamaica’s gross domestic product, its trade, export, and employment market. Pointing to the tourism sector she observed: “We sell sun, sea and sand”, emphasising how crucial Jamaica’s waters are to this Small Island Developing State (SIDS).
The critical position that seafarers find themselves in when balancing maritime operations with marine protection was emphasised in a presentation by Dr Carolyn Graham, a senior lecturer at the Caribbean Maritime University and passionate advocate for the safety, health and welfare of seafarers.
“Seafarers are basically ‘caught between the devil and the deep blue sea’,” she stated, demonstrating in detail how seafarers can be unfairly criminalised for the actions in the event of an environmental incident even when marine investigators confirm they have correctly followed international maritime procedures. Seafarers are expected to be the custodians of regulations but are not always properly supported in their role, she explained.
Pointing to a 2019 survey by Nautilus International, which found criminalisation to be one of the greatest fears of seafarers, Dr Graham said seafarers can be seen as “easy targets” when countries demand for “heads to roll”. She urged seafarers to “know your rights”, know where to find help, and to ensure they work for “reputable companies”.
The webinar was fortunate to hear first-hand from a serving seafarer, Second Officer Darren Gordon sailing on LNG carriers, who stressed the importance of properly maintaining critical onboard equipment stating, “there is no room for error.” Recalling just two experiences of minor spills from throughout his lengthy career he described how “immediate action” is crucial to prevent damage to the marine environment. The safety of the environment supersedes everything and all operations are stopped when a leak is identified, he told the webinar.
Training is crucial to equip seafarers with the up-to-date skills they need to properly operate latest technology and comply with maritime regulations, according to Captain Devron Newman, Dean - Faculty of Marine and Nautical Studies of the Caribbean Maritime University and an accomplished maritime education and training professional with more than 30 years’ experience.
He told the webinar that digital solutions, such as e-learning and virtual reality tools, are providing additional training opportunities to enable seafarers to upskill as onboard technology rapidly evolves, although he stressed that there will always be a need for hands-on experience and in person tuition too. “Stay updated,” he advised seafarers.
Speaking for the Maritime Authority of Jamaica, marine surveyor Sheldon Clarke, a qualified Chief Marine Engineer, outlined seafarers’ responsibilities under MARPOL, particularly in relation to sewage, garbage and oil disposal. He stressed the importance of correctly maintaining equipment and accurate record keeping. He agreed with Dr Graham that sometimes crew efforts are adversely impacted by the shortage of correct waste facilities onshore.
The 90-minute webinar, which took place on Thursday June 29, was moderated by Sean Moloney, CEO of Elaborate Communications and co-founder of London International Shipping Week, who praised the quality of the presentations and highlighted the importance of personal testimonies from people actively engaged in the maritime sector.
Alma Clean Power announces breakthrough in direct ammonia fuel cells
Alma Clean Power successfully tests world's first 6 kW direct ammonia fuel cell system. The accomplishment represents a significant milestone towards economically viable, zero-emission, deep-sea shipping.
Alma Clean Power is on the mission to develop modularized Solid Oxide Fuel Cell (SOFC) systems for applications in the ocean space, and the 6-kW unit is the first building block of a complete 100-kW SOFC module. The test validates the company’s design of a direct ammonia fuel cell (DAFC) system, delivering an impressive electrical efficiency of 61-67%.
“I am very proud of the Alma team and their remarkable achievements in just over a year of system development. To our knowledge, this is the highest power output ever demonstrated with direct ammonia solid oxide fuel cells”, says Bernt Skeie, CEO in Alma Clean Power.
Alma’s unique technology enables direct feeding of ammonia into the fuel cell system, bypassing the need for any energy intensive pre-treatment that converts the fuel into hydrogen prior to electricity production. With significantly higher efficiency levels compared to traditional combustion engines, this technology has the potential to make ammonia operated maritime energy systems economically viable for ship owners.
Green ammonia, produced by electrolysis powered by renewables, is a carbon-free fuel with great potential to decarbonize the maritime industries.
Alma’s SOFC system is currently operating seamlessly 24/7 and is monitored remotely with a sophisticated safety and control system. The SOFC modules are combustion-free with no rotating parts. They are designed to operate autonomously without any maintenance need for long intervals.
“It’s rewarding to see the system operate with stable operation and consistent electricity generation. To gain knowledge and fine-tune the setup, testing will continue throughout the summer. After that, we will proceed with the assembly and testing of a complete 100-kW module which will serve as the foundation for larger ship installations,” says Rune Tveit (pictured, left), Project Manager.
ClassNK releases amendments to class rules
ClassNK has released amendments to its Rules and Guidance for the Survey and Construction of Steel Ships dated 30 June 2023.
ClassNK is constantly revising its Rules and Guidance in order to reflect the latest results from relevant research and development projects, feedback from damage investigations, requests from industry as well as changes made to relevant international conventions, IACS unified requirements (UR), etc.
More specifically, some of the amendments made this time are as follows:
- Specify new formulae for sloshing loads as well as corresponding new scantling formulae. This amendment is being made to incorporate the latest sloshing knowledge obtained from the society's independently conducted research and development.
- Establish new requirements for work ships and support ships intended for the maintenance and management of offshore wind turbine installations as well as corresponding ship classification notation. This amendment is being made in response to requests from relevant industry members because the demand for such ships is expected to increase as more offshore wind turbine installations enter into service.
- Amend requirements for seawater-lubricated propeller shafts subject to drawing-out inspection every five years to allow the interval to be changed to every 15 years through the adoption of a preventive maintenance system. This amendment is being made in response to requests received from relevant industry members related to recent developments in seawater lubrication system technology.
- Clarify the scope of protection against fire for additional equipment used for transferring cargo to other vessels on liquefied gas carriers and clarify the NOx emission standards for biofuels. These amendments are being made in response to changes in relevant international conventions and to incorporate newly established IACS Unified Interpretations (UI).
- Amend requirements for test procedures of cast and forged steel products, and safety measures for reciprocating internal combustion engines. These amendments are being made to incorporate the latest revisions of relevant IACS Unified Requirements (UR).
Detailed PDF files for the above-mentioned amendments are available to download via “Rule Amendments for Technical Rules” of My Page on ClassNK’s website after registration.
Maersk charts course towards an inclusive future
Over a year since the launch of the Equal At Sea initiative in India, Maersk has seen a 5X increase in the intake of women among fresh cadets in India.
“Our continuous efforts and immense support from the industry has started realising the future of creating an equitable environment at sea for women to thrive in,” says Karan Kochhar, Head of Marine People, Asia, Maersk. “Through our initiatives, we have been able to successfully inspire more women to choose seafaring as a career.
“We are on track to achieve our goal of having 50% women amongst fresh cadet intake in India after having gone from 7.6% of Indian women cadet intake in 2021 to a significantly increased 35% in 2022.
“As a step to accelerate this transformation, we proudly announce the Maersk Women Rating Programme in collaboration with Training Shipping Rahaman. With this programme we aim to initiate a pilot group consisting of 20 women ratings.”
“At Maersk, we have carefully designed initiatives to transform seafaring into a safe and aspiring career, encouraging young women to aim for their future at sea,” adds Niels Bruus, Head of Marine People & Culture, Maersk.
‘Maersk's global women seafarer count has grown from 2% in 2021 to 3.3% in 2023, and we are committed to facilitating a further increase in women seafarers worldwide. In our quest for equality, we are committed to playing an active role by sharing our learnings, training material, and other valuable content with individuals, organisations, and institutions who share our vision.”
WFW advises CSSC regarding two luxury RoPax ferries
Watson Farley & Williams (WFW) has advised CSSC (Hong Kong) Shipping Company Limited (CSSC) regarding two luxury roll-on/roll-off passenger ferries, the Moby Fantasy (pictured) and Moby Legacy, with Italian operator Moby S.p.A..
The vessels were built by China’s Guangzhou Shipyard International and are currently the world's largest luxury RoPax ships. Moby Fantasy was delivered in early May 2023 and Moby Legacy will be delivered in late 2023.
Both vessels will hold up to 3000 passengers and 1300 vehicles. The vessels are equipped with hybrid scrubber systems and designed with an option to switch to LNG power fuel, further promoting reduction in carbon emissions and sustainable shipping in the industry.
Established in 2012, CSSC is the first shipyard-affiliated leasing company in the Greater China region and one of the world's leading ship leasing companies. The company provides leasing services to clients with the options of finance lease and operating lease. CSSC focuses on the provision of ship and marine equipment leasing services and also provides shipbroking services and loan services. Its cooperation with Moby enhances its shipping fleet, allowing it to focus on its core mission of promoting industry and finance.
The WFW Hong Kong Assets & Structured Finance team that advised CSSC was led by Hong Kong Head Christoforos Bisbikos, supported by Senior Associate Melissa Hoh in Singapore and Associate Thomas Wan. WFW Italy Partner Furio Samela, Senior Associates Antonella Barbarito and Davide Canepa, and Associate Noemi D’Alessio advised on the Italian aspects of the transaction.
Christoforos commented: “We’re excited to have advised our long-standing client CSSC on the successful completion of a complicated sale and leaseback transaction for two luxury RoPax ferries, which stands out thanks to both its structure and the unique assets involved. It’s a testament to CSSC’s strength in delivering world class vessels of any type and, most importantly, their ongoing commitment to collaborating with international shipping owners. We are proud to have been able to support them on this deal.”
SSA re-elects Caroline Yang as President for a third term
The Singapore Shipping Association (SSA) re-elected Caroline Yang as President for another two-year term during the Association’s 27th AGM last week (28 June).
Ms. Yang has been at the helm of the Association through some of shipping’s most challenging times. Her first two years in office covered the outbreak of COVID-19 during which time she oversaw a number of initiatives that placed Singapore at the forefront of the global response to the plight of seafarers. More recently SSA and the maritime as a whole have been grappling with the volatile geopolitical situation which has resulted in the redirection of trade routes and flows, the trend of regionalisation where countries are enacting their own regulations like the EU-ETS, the increased pressure to decarbonise shipping at an accelerated rate and the challenge of attracting younger talents into the industry.
Following her successful re-election, Ms. Yang said: “I am humbled by the support and trust of the SSA members, and the Council have shown in me and am truly grateful to be re-elected President of an Association whose members are forward-looking and dynamic.
“I remain committed to help the Association grow stronger and strengthen its already trusted partner credentials. Together with the Council and the SSA secretariat, we will endeavour to represent our members and provide deep thought leadership in the most crucial issues of our time such as digital transformation and cybersecurity,
decarbonisation, talent attraction and retention.
“I would like to extend my gratitude to Gerbrand Vroegop of ING Bank, Ng Ee Ping of Kontiki Shipping and Gina Lee-Wan of Allen & Gledhill, who has retired from the Council, for their various contributions to the SSA operational committees. I welcome
the new Council and co-opted Council members, and I look forward to them carrying the torch with me as we navigate the future of shipping for our members,” she added.
Ms. Yang will be supported by two Vice Presidents and the SSA Secretariat headed by Mr. Michael Phoon, Executive Director. The two Vice Presidents nominated by the 2023/2025 Council are Mr. René Piil Pedersen, Managing Director, AP Moller Singapore Pte Ltd and Ms. Katie Men, Managing Director, Iseaco Investment.
Report reveals extent of illegal fees for seafarer recruitment
The extent of illegal recruitment fees and charges being levied on seafarers, in violation of the Maritime Labour Convention, has been revealed in a research report and survey produced by Liverpool John Moores University (LJMU) and leading maritime welfare charity, The Mission to Seafarers (MtS).
The report, titled ‘Survey on Fees and Charges for Seafarer Recruitment or Placement’, shines a light on instances in which seafarers are being forced into paying illegal fees and charges, further confirming the extent of this serious problem and providing a better understanding of how widespread the issue is.
The report includes a survey of over 200 seafarers, drawn from a wide variety of ranks, age and nationalities, and all data collected was processed rigorously in adherence to academic standards at Liverpool John Moores University. Almost 65% of respondents stated that they were aware of illegal demands for recruitment or placement fees, either through personal experience or the experience of a colleague.
Over 90% (92%) of respondents declared that these corrupt practices must come to an end; an important figure as it highlights an awareness that such fees and charges are not an acceptable part of the hiring process.
In terms of the nationalities and countries where illegal fees were most prevalent, 29% of cases were related to Indian citizens and in 36% of cases, the demand for fees was made in India (followed by the Philippines and then Burma/Myanmar).
Almost 60% (58%) of respondents also stated that the demand for illegal fees and charges were from the crewing agent appointed by the shipping company. A further 31% said it was from an individual with links to the crewing agent and 11% said the demand came from an employee of the shipping company. When asked about the nature of the demand, 56% responded that it was described as a ‘service charge’, 29% as ‘agency fees/registration fees’ and 29% as a ‘bribe’.
The sums involved varied from US$50-100 up to US$7,500, with the average being US$1,872. In 10% of reported cases, the seafarers affected are still in debt. Furthermore, 29% of respondents had experience of their documents being unlawfully withheld during the recruitment process; typically their Continuous Discharge Certificate/Seamans’s book, passport or Certificate of Competency.
Such behaviour is a clear breach of the Maritime Labour Convention (MLC), an international treaty adopted by the International Labour Organisation. The MLC entered into force in 2013 and is often referred to as the ‘Seafarers’ bill of rights.’ It makes clear that no fees or charges should be borne by the seafarers for their recruitment, placement, or employment, other than for their seafarers’ book, statutory medical certificate, and passport. All seafarers should be able to access employment without the payment of fees or charges to recruitment agencies or intermediaries.
This report builds on the initial study carried out by the Institute for Human Rights and Business (IHRB) and the Sustainable Shipping Initiative (SSI) in April 2023, and further confirms the prevalence of seafarers being coerced into paying illegal fees.
The impact of illegal recruitment fees on seafarers and their families can be very significant. In addition to the financial burden, the stress and strain inflicted can take its toll on the mental health of seafarers, while also limiting their career opportunities. In the worst cases, this exploitation can lead to serious human right violations, with seafarers trapped in debt bondage and forced to endure exploitative working conditions. Extended family separation further compounds the distressing circumstances, as seafarers find themselves unable to speak out against other abusive or dangerous practices. The issue of illegal fees also poses a serious reputational risk for the shipping industry, leading to a breakdown in trust between seafarers and employers. Moreover, it exacerbates existing labour shortages in the shipping industry, discouraging existing seafarers from returning to sea and putting off the next generation from considering seafaring careers.
The report formed part of a discussion at The Global Forum for Responsible Recruitment, a major international forum bringing together businesses, civil society, trade unions, government, and academia to discuss the global agenda on responsible recruitment.
Commenting on the report, Ben Bailey, MtS’s Director of Programme, said: “This report confirms what seafarers have told us informally when it comes to the scourge of illegal fees and charges that so many of them are being coerced into paying in return for employment. Not only does the data shed new light on this phenomenon, the anecdotal feedback from seafarers also further reveals how widespread and damaging this problem is to individuals and their families.
“The illegal charging of fees impacts not just the livelihoods and wellbeing of seafarers and their families who are being systematically exploited, but also to the wider reputation of the shipping industry. If shipping wants to be able to attract and retain the talented seafarers that it relies upon, it will require meaningful action from national and international regulators, shipping companies, and the recruitment sector to drive out this practice.”
Dr. Christos Kontovas, LJMU report lead author, added: "Our study sheds light on the disturbing reality of seafarers being subjected to illegal fees and charges. These practices can trap seafarers in debt bondage, compelling them to endure exploitative and abusive working conditions. What is truly disheartening though is that such practices tarnish the image of the maritime industry, leading to its perception as exploitative and unfair. This, in turn, has the potential to discourage aspiring seafarers from pursuing their dreams. We are, currently, exploring strategies to mitigate these practices, aiming to contribute towards addressing this deeply serious problem."
Further work is ongoing which builds on a series of recommendations to tackle this issue. These include better definitions of fees and charges, and increased education and awareness. It is intended that this document, along with the recent IHRB and SSI study, will inform discussion around amending the Maritime Labour Convention and other regulatory instruments dealing with the recruitment and retention of seafarers.
The scale of this problem also highlights the importance of financial literacy for seafarers and their families. The Mission to Seafarers is helping to address this important issue through its WeCare Financial Literacy programme, which provides informative money management tools which can help seafarers and their families have more control over their spending and how to better manage their income.
A copy of the full report can be downloaded from the MtS website.
ICS Ship Recycling Guide, first edition, out now
The ICS Ship Recycling Guide, first edition, is out now. Following the announcement from Bangladesh of its intent to ratify the Hong Kong Convention, a significant move towards ensuring that decommissioned vessels do not unnecessarily endanger human health, safety, or the environment, compliance with ship recycling regulations is now more important than ever.
This essential new guide includes comprehensive guidance on the IMO Hong Kong International Convention for the Safe and Environmentally Sound Recycling of Ships and explains the differences between the European Union Ship Recycling Regulation and the Hong Kong Convention, ensuring that companies are in compliance with the applicable law.
With practical advice and guidance, this guide will help readers: navigate the complexities of maintaining the IHM throughout the ship’s life; prepare a ship for recycling; and make informed decisions that benefit both operations and the environment.
Ship Recycling Guide, first edition, is priced at £130 and is available in print and e-book. Find out more and order from ICS Publications.
DP World signs deal to more than double capacity at Indonesian container terminal
DP World is set to commence operations at Indonesia’s Belawan New Container Terminal (BNCT), after last week finalising an agreement with the Indonesia Investment Authority (INA) and Pelindo to manage the terminal and begin a major expansion.
The strategic partnership between the Indonesia Investment Authority (INA), Indonesian government-owned port operator Pelindo, and DP World, will create Indonesia’s most direct link with the Malacca Strait, one of the world’s busiest shipping routes.
The agreement was signed by Sultan Ahmed Bin Sulayem, Group Chairman and CEO of DP World, Arif Suhartono, President Director of PT Pelabuhan Indonesia (Persero), and Ridha Wirakusumah, CEO of Indonesia Investment Authority.
In the longer term, the agreement aims to increase BNCT’s capacity to 1.4 million TEUs, up from 600,000 TEUs currently. BNCT will also aim to attract more direct calls, reducing North Sumatra’s reliance on regional hub ports to access regional and global markets.
The BNCT currently serves as a local hub for the neighbouring provinces in Sumatra. The expansion and modernisation programme will strengthen its position as a major trade and logistics gateway in the Malacca Strait.
Alongside modernising maritime infrastructure, DP World will also work with its partners to connect other terminals and small ports on the Island of Sumatra to further realise the BNCT’s role in reducing container logistics costs within Northern Sumatra.
Minister of State-Owned Enterprises, Erick Thohir, said: “As directed by President Joko Widodo, there is always strategic value for equity and acceleration of economic growth in the regions and nationally through port development, including this new container terminal at the Port of Belawan which is believed to support downstream to maximize exports in new ways and also accelerate the economy in North Sumatra which continues to grow. This is in accordance with the objectives of the Terminal port development which will strengthen the national port industry ecosystem, as well as the competitiveness of Indonesian ports as strategic trade routes in Southeast Asia and internationally.”
Sultan Ahmed Bin Sulayem, Group Chairman and CEO of DP World, said: “We are proud to help Indonesia expand the Belawan New Container Terminal and support its ambitions to develop the economy of Sumatra through infrastructure. By investing in cutting-edge sustainable technologies, world-class training and the highest standards of health and safety, we aim to eliminate inefficiency and enable the flow of trade between Indonesia and the world.”
Arif Suhartono, President Director of PT Pelabuhan Indonesia (Persero), said: “Today's Shareholder Agreement is a significant milestone and follows the signing of the Master Agreement in August 2022. This has been a long and complex process, but I’m delighted that the agreement is now a reality thanks to the hard work and collaboration of all parties, I am optimistic that this agreement will be a catalyst for the further development of the BNCT as a world-class, connected and fully integrated container terminal that is the foundation for increased trade and a brighter future for our exporters, downstream industries and people.
“The realization of the Belawan Investment and Operations collaboration represents business expansion and strategic partnership, which are key pillars of our 2023 roadmap. This collaboration is also proof that after the merger, the level of investor confidence in Pelindo has increased.”
Ridha Wirakusumah, CEO of INA, said: "INA's investment in Belawan New Container Terminal serves as a crucial step towards positioning Indonesia as a prominent maritime axis, and key player in the global logistics industry. This transformational project supports Indonesia's economic growth and advances its maritime sector, becoming an important role in driving economic growth in Indonesia."
Largest suction sail installation to date
bound4blue, key player in the wind propulsion sector, has successfully installed two eSAILs® on Dutch flagged Eems Traveller, a 2,850 dwt general cargo vessel owned by Amasus.
The eSAIL system, categorized as a suction sail, is based on the use of a thick aerodynamic profile and smart suction to increase the propulsive efficiency, resulting in a system that produces seven times more lift than an airplane wing.
These sails represent a new and improved generation of the system installed on the La Naumon, delivering higher efficiency with the same size. Standing at a height of 17 metres, they continue to hold the record as the largest suction sail ever built and installed on a ship. In fact, the installation of these two sails on the Eems Traveller also marks the largest installation of fixed suction sails on a ship to date.
The installation was executed in two distinct phases. One year ago, during a scheduled regular dry-dock of the vessel, the foundations for the eSAILs® were manufactured and installed in The Netherlands. The verticalization manoeuvre and connection to the reinforcement of the sails was completed in less than four hours at the Port of Bilbao last week. In between these two phases bound4blue has been monitoring the ship to obtain its baseline performance, which will be used by a third party to assess the fuel and emission savings results in the next 12 months. In this way, scientifically validated results are obtained, which can be used to demonstrate the actual effects of the system in use on board of the vessel and form the basis for any future further development.
José Miguel Bermúdez, CEO of bound4blue, says: “In the same way that we need proven sustainable solutions to decarbonise the industry, we also need to implement them as fast and efficiently as possible. As evidence of this, we have utilized for the first time the port infrastructure to install our systems, demonstrating that shipowners don't have to wait for the scheduled maintenance of the ship to start reaping the benefits of wind propulsion.”
Arend-Jan Rozema, Managing Director of Amasus, says: “The joint development of this wind propulsion concept marks an important milestone and contribution to the aspiration in creating a sustainable future. As Amasus, we are proud and delighted to realize this new project together with our partners from bound4blue.”
This installation, approved by Bureau Veritas, has been done within the framework of the Sails for Cargo project, co-funded by Fondo Puertos 4.0 of Puertos del Estado, with the support from Port of Bilbao, Bilbao PortLab and Toro y Betolaza.
Orca AI teams up with Marubeni to expand global reach of its pioneering technology
Orca AI, the leading situational awareness solution provider for the commercial shipping industry, today announced that it has entered into a worldwide distribution deal with Marubeni, one of Japan’s biggest import and export companies and a comprehensive provider of ship services.
The Japanese conglomerate will also install the Orca AI platform on its vessels, providing use-case insights that the Israeli company can leverage to further enhance the technology.
Commenting on the deal with Orca AI, Yasutomo Miyake (pictured, left), General Manager, Ship Project Dept. of Marubeni, said: “In line with our commitment to ‘creating value through innovative solutions for our customers and for the world’, we trust that the partnership with Orca AI contributes to achievement of the SDGs for entire shipping industry. We appreciate the enthusiasm of the Orca AI team and look forward to a productive cooperation on this next-generation platform that promises to significantly enhance navigational decision making.”
Yarden Gross (pictured, right), Chief Executive Officer and co-founder of Orca AI, said: “We are thrilled to be collaborating with Marubeni as an innovation-driven conglomerate whose operations span the entire shipping value chain. Our system benefits stakeholders such as Marubeni by automating watchkeeping, helping to reduce seafarers’ workload while lowering the risk of collisions at sea.
As well as supporting existing operations, AI and computer vision technologies are also expected to become an enabler of autonomous fleet operations in the coming years.”
Orca AI’s SeaPod™ lookout unit acts as a fully automatic digital watchkeeper, powered by high-sensitivity computer vision and deep-learning algorithms that detect, track, and classify nearby targets that could potentially pose a risk to the vessel. It helps to enhance situational awareness for bridge crews during challenging navigational scenarios such as congested waterways and low-visibility conditions.
Orca AI’s technology, which is operational 24/7, prioritizes risks at sea and presents them via a user-friendly interface onboard. The platform provides real-time monitoring capabilities to the fleet operations teams and actionable insights to improve safety, operations efficiency and performance.
To date, Orca AI has accumulated more than 20 million nautical miles-worth of marine visual data from its customers, including NYK, Mediterranean Shipping Co (MSC), and Maran Group.
Gross adds that Orca AI’s automated watchkeeping capabilities can be particularly helpful for Japanese ship owners and operators in view of the ongoing shortage of skilled seafarers amid a fast-aging population and the reluctance of younger generations to pursue demanding careers at sea.
This is not the first time that Orca AI has worked together with an industry-leading Japanese partner. In 2022, Orca AI and NYK Group completed a successful autonomous voyage trial in congested waters off Japan’s east coast through the Designing the Future of Full Autonomous Ships (DFFAS) consortium, which includes 30 Japanese firms.
Change in leadership at WinGD
Swiss marine power company WinGD announces a change in its leadership position. After five successful years at the helm, the current CEO of WinGD, Klaus Heim, has informed the Board of Directors that he has decided to step down from his role, effective 31st July, 2023.
During his tenure as CEO, Klaus has steered WinGD through a period of significant growth and innovation. Under his guidance, the company launched a suite of smart power solutions, strengthening its position as a technology leader in the maritime industry.
In light of this transition, the Board of Directors has appointed Dominik Schneiter (pictured) as the Acting CEO, effective the beginning of July. Dominik brings over three decades of industry experience to the role, having served as WinGD's VP of Research and Development for the last seven years. His deep understanding of the industry, coupled with his strong leadership capabilities, makes him well-suited to lead WinGD through this important phase.
Upon his appointment, Dominik Schneiter shared his enthusiasm for the new role, stating, "I am honoured to be entrusted with the responsibility of leading WinGD as we navigate the evolving landscape of the shipping industry. Building upon our strong foundation, we will continue to drive innovation, advance sustainable solutions, and provide exceptional value to our customers and partners."
The process of formally handing over the CEO role to Dominik has commenced. WinGD’s Board of Directors and Executive Management Team, we are working towards a seamless transition to continue to accelerate their technology innovation roadmap in close collaboration with customers, partners and colleagues.
Klaus Heim, outgoing CEO, stated: “Serving as the CEO of WinGD for the past five years has been an incredible privilege and a journey filled with remarkable achievements. Throughout this time, I have had the pleasure of working alongside our exceptional colleagues, customers, partners and shareholders. However, I believe it is the right time for me and for WinGD to make this transition and to contribute my knowledge and experience in a different capacity elsewhere.”
WinGD expresses its sincere gratitude to Klaus for his exceptional leadership and invaluable contributions during his tenure as CEO. The company looks forward to a bright future under new leadership, as WinGD continues its commitment to delivering cutting-edge technologies that contribute to the decarbonization efforts within the maritime sector.
Asyad Drydock shows off its advanced capabilities by successfully applying new eco-friendly nano-epoxy silicone coating
Asyad Drydock, part of Asyad Group, announced the successful application of high-quality nano-epoxy coating on Asyad Shipping’s Ultramax bulk carrier, Jabal Al Kawr. The brand-new coating technology was applied for the first time in the Middle East, and the second globally, on Minoa Marine’s MV Julia (pictured) earlier this year at Asyad Drydock’s world-class facilities in Duqm, Oman.
Capitalizing on Asyad Drydock’s premium ship-servicing capabilities and state-of-the-art technologies, Asyad Shipping commissioned the application of the ecofriendly nano-epoxy silicone coating solution on its Ultramax bulk carrier, Jabal Al Kawr. This undertaking highlights Asyad Shipping’s commitment to developing a modern shipping fleet that adheres to the highest international standards of efficiency and sustainability. The successful engagement also showcases Asyad Drydock’s ability to execute tailored projects in line with customers’ strict requirements and deadlines.
Asyad Drydock spearheaded the regional application of the revolutionary coating solution, successfully premiering the novel coating solution on Minoa Marine’s MV Julia earlier this year. The coating was applied following a full Sa 2.0 abrasive blasting surface treatment which was administered for the first time on the MV Julia at Oman’s world-class shipyard in Duqm.
The abrasion-resistant nano-epoxy silicone coating, which promises to be the future of coating solutions, features many economic and environment-friendly advantages, significantly reducing drag, increasing fuel efficiency and lowering carbon emissions, all while ensuring that less maintenance work is required during subsequent dockings. Additionally, the smooth nano-epoxy silicone coating is resistant to fouling without the need to use biocides, thereby reducing impact on the marine environment.
Dr. Abdulsalam Al Rabaani, Acting COO of Asyad Drydock, underlined the shipyard’s role in introducing the new coating solution to the Middle East maritime sector: “Being the first drydock to apply nano-epoxy silicone coating in the MENA region is a testament to our advanced ship-servicing capacities and ability to integrate the latest innovations in the industry, as we forge ahead in our pursuit of partnerships with top green solution providers.”
“We are extremely excited to add this novel technology to our host of offerings, allowing us to better serve our clients and cater to their various requirements. Our collaboration with Asyad Shipping also shows both of our companies’ synergy and commitment to sustainability, in line with Asyad Group’s strategy of enabling the transition to a sustainable maritime future,” Dr. Al Rabaani added.
With the addition of nano-epoxy silicone coating, Asyad Drydock now boasts a wide array of top coating solutions within its inclusive offering of ship building and repair services. Simultaneously, Asyad Shipping is maintaining its drive towards developing a modern fleet that meets the highest standards of efficiency. Both Asyad Group arms continue to pursue the latest technologies that advance sustainability objectives, in line with Asyad’s mission to cement Oman’s standing as a sustainable global logistics hub leading the drive for a green maritime future.
Planning and preparation vital to reduce man overboard fatalities
Analysis conducted by the UK’s Marine Accident Investigation Branch (MAIB) has revealed that crew have, on average, under 11 minutes to recover a crewmate who has fallen overboard into cold water before the victim becomes unresponsive.
The analysis of 20 accidents that occurred between 2017 and 2021 shows that the time decreases as the water becomes colder or the sea state rougher. In some cases, crew had just four or five minutes to coordinate a complex recovery under extreme pressure.
Separate MAIB data sheds further light on the scale of the challenge of getting a victim back on board. When examining the rate of successful recovery, MAIB found that of the 308 man overboard occurrences reported to MAIB between 2015 and 2023, tragically 40% led to a fatality.
In the recreational sector the picture was more concerning with the data indicating that almost half (47%) of man overboard occurrences that were reported to the MAIB from pleasure craft resulted in a fatality. In the fishing industry this rose further still with just over half of man overboard incidents (56%) ending in tragedy.
Whilst overall rates of man overboard were lower for other parts of the industry the same hazard still exists. Of the 20 man overboard incidents from cargo vessels, six resulted in the loss of a crew member. Inland waterways saw six fatalities from 24 incidents and passenger ships eight incidents resulting in one fatality. For service ships, the rate of recovery was the best in the industry with only 15% unsuccessful.
Yesterday, to launch Maritime Safety Week 2023, Maritime Minister Baroness Vere joined the MAIB and Royal Yachting Association (RYA) at a special demonstration to raise industry awareness of the challenges of man overboard recovery.
Held at Westminster Boating Base on the River Thames, the Met Police Marine Police Unit gave a live demonstration of the techniques that crew need to deploy to recover an incapacitated person from the water from a high sided vessel without specialist equipment.
RYA Chief Instructor Vaughan Marsh spoke of the importance of training, preparation and practice. He also highlighted the different challenges depending on type of vessel or sea condition. A crew transfer vessel provided by Offshore Turbine Services was on hand to display the variety of solutions available in the commercial sector to make man overboard lifting easier. In addition, representatives from the RNLI, NFFO and British Marine participated in a discussion of the challenges.
Maritime Minister Baroness Vere said: “It is truly remarkable how quickly crew work, in often complex circumstances, to save lives. I was honoured to have seen their work first hand.
“Research from the Marine Accident Investigation Branch illustrates how invaluable training for such complex life-saving missions is, and would not be possible without the indispensable contributions of organisations like Royal Yachting Association (RYA), who offer training worldwide in order to keep water a safe environment for everyone to enjoy.”
Andrew Moll, the Chief Inspector of Marine Accidents, said: “Man overboard recovery can be exceptionally challenging at the best of times, but the recovery becomes much harder if the casualty is unconscious or unresponsive. Our data paints a truly shocking picture of just how little time a crew can have before cold water incapacitation renders a casualty unable to assist in their own rescue. It is essential that boat users - regardless of the sector - think carefully about how they would recover a crew member on their vessel.”
Vaughan Marsh, RYA Chief Instructor, said: “Crews need to prepare, plan and practise in order to have the best chance of helping a crewmember. Prepare by undergoing appropriate training, make a plan based on their vessel and ensure that they practice by carrying out regular drills, including actually using whatever equipment they have to recover the casualty from the water in those drills.”
MPA Singapore and LR sign 'Silk Alliance' MoU aimed at driving zero emission shipping across the Indian and Pacific Oceans
Lloyd’s Register Maritime Decarbonisation Hub (LR MDH) and the Maritime and Port Authority of Singapore (MPA) have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) aimed at collaborating on a fleet-specific decarbonisation strategy and implementation plan for ‘The Silk Alliance’ cross-industry initiative to enable zero-emission shipping across the Indian and Pacific Oceans.
Through complementary technical skills and expertise, both parties will strengthen their commitment to developing partnerships in co-creating the green corridor to trial decarbonisation strategies for container ships operating primarily in Asia to achieve significant emission-saving impact. LR MDH, which is a joint initiative between Lloyd’s Register Group and Lloyd’s Register Foundation, won the IMO-MPA NextGEN Connect Challenge for its 'Development of a Route-based Action Plan Methodology based on The Silk Alliance’.
The MPA’s entry into The Silk Alliance initiative is a significant step forward towards deeper public-private sector collaboration between global maritime industry players and Singapore’s port regulator, focusing on actions to unlock key investments across the Indian and Pacific Oceans region as the green corridor cluster moves into an implementation phase.
The collaboration includes driving investments into scalable fuel supply infrastructure to meet the demand aggregation signal of members of The Silk Alliance and potential wider regional bunkering demands for alternative fuels.
MPA’s contribution to The Silk Alliance, which is based on the Lloyd’s Register Maritime Decarbonisation Hub’s ‘First Mover Framework’, complements efforts to establish the supply of low- and zero-carbon fuel options, and also its collaboration with other partners to develop Green and Digital Shipping Corridors.
Nick Brown (pictured, left), Chief Executive Officer, Lloyd’s Register, said: “We’re delighted to welcome the MPA to the expanding ‘The Silk Alliance’ cross-industry collaboration. Flag and port authorities play a crucial role in increasing the industry’s confidence in zero-emissions shipping, and as the world’s largest bunkering hub, we see Singapore and the MPA as a driving force in advancing the safe uptake of low-to-zero emissions fuel in the global shipping industry.”
Teo Eng Dih (pictured, right), Chief Executive of MPA, said: “MPA is pleased to be part of The Silk Alliance to accelerate the decarbonisation of container trade. The Silk Alliance will enable key stakeholders in Singapore to chart the transition towards low- and zero-carbon options. As the world’s largest transhipment container port and bunkering hub, Singapore will take active steps to support the decarbonisation of the container trade in line with IMO’s Revised Strategy to reduce emissions from shipping.”
Launched in May 2022 with 12 leading cross-supply chain stakeholders, The Silk Alliance brings together an integral group of organisations from both the private and public sector across the entire value chain of shipping. Inaugural members include port operator, PSA; shipowners, MSC Shipmanagement Ltd., Pacific International Lines (Pte) Ltd (PIL), Wan Hai Lines, X-Press Feeders, Yang Ming Marine Transport Corp.; shipyard, Seatrium; bunker logistical supplier, Singfar International; engine manufacturer, Wärtsilä; ship manager, Wilhelmsen Ship Management; and financial institutions, the Asian Development Bank and ING.
The Silk Alliance was initially focused on a baseline fleet that predominantly bunkers in Singapore and sails across Asia, East Africa, the Middle East, Australia, and the Pacific Islands. As the implementation phase rolls out, the baseline fleet’s demand is expected to eventually aggregate further to other regional hubs and deepsea routes, such as the Singapore-Rotterdam green and digital shipping corridor.
Existing partners of The Silk Alliance have conducted a feasibility scenario analysis for green shipping for an in-scope fleet of container ships. Through close collaboration with the MPA and other members of The Silk Alliance, the LR Maritime Decarbonisation Hub expects that given Singapore’s status as both the top bunkering and transhipment port, supported by its innovation ecosystem, it can help accelerate The Silk Alliance’s decarbonisation efforts.
The Britannia Group makes significant donations to four Bermudian maritime charities
The Britannia Group, the oldest mutual P&I Club, has announced that it has made separate one-off donations of USD75,000 to four charitable organisations based in Bermuda: the Bermuda Maritime Academy, Bermuda Sailors’ Home, Bermuda Sloop Foundation and Endeavour. All the charities support aspiring or more experienced sailors as well as local maritime communities more generally in Bermuda.
The Britannia Group’s links to the marine reinsurance market in Bermuda go back to the 1990s when it set up a Bermuda based reinsurance company called Boudicca, that was owned and controlled by a Bermuda Purpose Trust. As the reinsurance market provision has evolved over the years, the Britannia Group decided in 2022 to merge Boudicca with its other reinsurance vehicle in Bermuda, USMIA. The Trust received consideration for agreeing to the merger, which was equivalent to its original seed money with the terms of the Trust requiring this seed money to be distributed to local maritime charities in the event of the Trust being wound up. The Britannia Group approached the former directors of Boudicca to seek their recommendations for maritime charities in Bermuda to receive donations.
The donations were presented to representatives of the four charitable organisations by Board directors of the Britannia Group at a lunch in Hamilton, Bermuda on 3 July 2023.
“Making sizable donations to these very deserving maritime charities is an appropriate way for the Britannia Group to demonstrate its support for their invaluable work in supporting seafarers at every stage of their careers. Whether it is training Bermuda’s next generation of mariners or offering recreational spaces where sailors can relax and unwind ashore, these charities perform a vital service to the maritime community,” said Andrew Cutler, CEO, the Britannia Group.
“All of us at the Bermuda Maritime Academy are sincerely grateful to the Britannia Group for this meaningful and important contribution which will be instrumental in allowing us to begin the creation of a long term home for the Academy enabling us to provide essential marine training and certification to Bermudians,” said The Hon. Michael Winfield MBE JP, Chairman, Bermuda Maritime Academy.
“On behalf of the Bermuda Sailors Home, we would like to thank the Britannia Group for their very generous donation which will help us continue to serve the needs and assist all seafarers that find themselves on Bermuda’s shores,” commented Edward Barnes, General Manager, The Bermuda Sailors’ Home.
"The Bermuda Sloop Foundation relies on the generosity of supporters like the Britannia Group in order to facilitate our world-class programmes for young people onboard our sail training vessel, Spirit of Bermuda. This donation will enable us to continue our goal of having all middle-school students participate in experiential learning voyages”, stated Robin Hammill, CEO, Bermuda Sloop Foundation.
“We are deeply thankful for the Britannia Group's generous support of Endeavour's work that inspires and empowers young people from all backgrounds, skills and abilities across Bermuda by building self-confidence and life skills with experiential learning through sailing”, said Jennifer Pitcher, Executive Director, Endeavour.
Hi-tech USV undergoes sea trials ahead of delivery to US
SEA-KIT International is preparing to deliver on its export deal with American autonomous maritime solutions provider, ThayerMahan.
Connecticut-based ThayerMahan ordered a SEA-KIT X-class Uncrewed Surface Vessel (USV) last year, having seen the 12-metre design proven on numerous commercial operations around the world.
This latest USV, X107T - the seventh X-class to leave SEA-KIT’s production facility in the East of England, boasts several enhancements and technology developments. These include a new winch system, developed by SEA-KIT to integrate with the company’s proprietary G-SAVI virtual helm station, that will enable deployment of large, towed arrays and sensors down to 3,000 metres. The company has also further developed G-SAVI, taking the technology another step towards becoming a fully classed autopilot system whilst continuing to advance its situational awareness suite.
ThayerMahan plans to use the USV to support introduction of the technology into government service, as well as for its own activities in US and international waters. X107T’s hi-tech specification will stand it in good stead for the levels of scrutiny expected for military and security applications, as well as having a positive impact on the company’s future commercial builds.
Mike Connor, President and CEO of ThayerMahan, said: “The flexible payload on SEA-KIT’s USV design, coupled with its ability to operate near silently for long periods of time, will enable us to continue our leadership stance in remote and autonomous mobile acoustic sensing and sense making. By improving maritime domain awareness efficiencies with this vessel, we ultimately keep people safe while protecting critical infrastructure and the ocean environment.”
The USV is currently undergoing extensive sea trials in the UK before being shipped to the US to commence operations stateside later this summer. The X-class design fits inside a standard shipping container, making it cost-effective to ship overseas.
Ben Simpson, CEO of SEA-KIT, said: “Once X107T is operational, SEA-KIT will have vessels working in the Middle East, Asia, Australia, all over Europe and in the US. This USV will take on quite different tasks and missions to the commercial craft, which demonstrates the versatility of the X-class design as a safe platform for any payload. The UK’s leading position in maritime autonomous systems is clearly drawing international interest, which is testament to everyone involved in the sector here.”
Port of Rotterdam Authority and Rotterdam World Gateway announce expansion in the Prinses Amaliahaven
Container terminal Rotterdam World Gateway (RWG) has decided to expand its terminal in the Prinses Amaliahaven on the Maasvlakte in the port of Rotterdam. The expansion of the current terminal consists of about 45 hectares in terms of terminal site and 920 metres of quay wall.
This will increase RWG’s capacity by 1.8 million TEU in a phased manner. The expansion will be fully automated and carbon-neutral, just like the existing terminal. The first phase of the expansion is expected to be operational by the end of 2025. The terminal will also be prepared for shore power and be connected to the Container Exchange Route (CER).
Currently, RWG has access to approximately 100 hectares of land, 1,150 metres of deep-sea quay and 550 metres of barge/feeder quay. The Port of Rotterdam Authority (PoR) started construction of the quay walls in the Prinses Amaliahaven in spring 2021. Construction of the quay wall will be completed by mid-2024.
The state-of-the-art quay wall is fitted with sensors to measure the forces, which vessels, waves, wind and other elements exert on the structure while it is also being prepared for the use of shore power. The Port of Rotterdam Authority is also equipping the quay wall at RWG with smart bollards, which measure the strength of hawsers so the safety of moored vessels can be monitored continuously.
Allard Castelein, CEO of the Port of Rotterdam Authority, said: “In the coming decades, container shipping will continue to grow. Rotterdam aims to facilitate and encourage this growth in a sustainable manner. After all, sustainable logistics choices ensure a well-functioning system that contributes to the prosperity of the Netherlands and Europe. By investing early in the construction of new quay walls, we can now offer our clients the necessary capacity. We are therefore delighted with RWG’s decision to invest in the expansion of the carbon-neutral terminal.”
Ronald Lugthart, CEO of RWG, commented: “With this decision, we are taking the next step in expanding our operations so we can continue to offer reliable, efficient and flexible services to our clients and stakeholders. We are investing not only in additional capacity, but also in further logistics and hinterland connectivity with forward-looking facilities and partnerships. The RWG terminal will become completely carbon-neutral, including through further electrification of terminal equipment and by being prepared for shore power.”
MSC UK expands Ipswich head office with new premises
Mediterranean Shipping Company (UK) Ltd (MSC UK) has expanded its UK head office in Ipswich with the formal opening of an additional office building this week. The 17,500 m2 building, part of a global network of more than 675 offices in 155 countries, will provide much needed additional office space along with a staff restaurant and informal meeting area.
This is the fourth MSC UK office building within Ransomes Europark, Suffolk, and will be the new home for over 100 of the 850+ employees operating from its Ipswich headquarters.
Founded in 1977, MSC has grown to become the UK’s largest container shipping line, with a leading national presence in cargo shipping and logistics. From white goods such as fridge freezers and washing machines, to the food and drink available on store shelves, there’s a very good chance everyday items such as these have been imported into the country in an MSC container.
Dan Everitt, Managing Director at MSC UK commented: “At a time where there is much economic uncertainty, I am delighted that we can strengthen our community ties here in Ipswich, home to our UK head office, and support local employment opportunities with the opening of our new facilities.”
Jonathan Burke, Operations Director at MSC UK commented: “As a nation, the UK imports around £54.5 billion worth of goods, services, food and commodities from the rest of the world. Therefore, the role we play in this community, and our country, is of utmost importance.”
MSC UK is one of the largest employers in the county of Suffolk in the East of England. Over the last 12 months, 180 new roles have been recruited for, including successful apprenticeship schemes in partnership with regional training providers.
Dan Everitt concluded: “The addition of our new office highlights our commitment to our local community, our people and infrastructure, to continue providing the very best customer service. As a family company, I hope our people enjoy the new modern facilities and I look forward to sharing a coffee and hearing their thoughts.”
Ocean Network Express to host 2nd Container Shipping Summit in Singapore
Ocean Shipping Express (ONE) is pleased to announce it will host the 2nd Container Shipping Summit in Singapore on 3 August 2023, in collaboration with Anchor Ship Partners and Kozo Keikaku Engineering. The summit will bring together industry experts, academic leaders, and government representatives to discuss the pressing challenges facing the container shipping industry, and to work towards a brighter future for global supply chains and communities.
The summit will delve into crucial topics that will shape the future of container shipping. These include research and development in terminals and ports and ship technologies, unlocking the full potential of container shipping supply chains, enhancing ESG measurement in container shipping, and nurturing maritime talent. These discussions will pave the way for collaborative efforts, ensuring efficient and sustainable container shipping.
“We are excited to host the 2nd Container Shipping Summit in Singapore,” said Yasuki Iwai, Managing Director, ONE. “At ONE, we are committed to building a sustainable society through container shipping. We believe this summit provides an opportunity for like-minded individuals and organizations to connect and collaborate.”
The 2nd Container Shipping Summit will be held at Marina One West Tower in Singapore.
Ocean Network Express to host 2nd Container Shipping Summit in Singapore
Ocean Shipping Express (ONE) is pleased to announce it will host the 2nd Container Shipping Summit in Singapore on 3 August 2023, in collaboration with Anchor Ship Partners and Kozo Keikaku Engineering. The summit will bring together industry experts, academic leaders, and government representatives to discuss the pressing challenges facing the container shipping industry, and to work towards a brighter future for global supply chains and communities.
The summit will delve into crucial topics that will shape the future of container shipping. These include research and development in terminals and ports and ship technologies, unlocking the full potential of container shipping supply chains, enhancing ESG measurement in container shipping, and nurturing maritime talent. These discussions will pave the way for collaborative efforts, ensuring efficient and sustainable container shipping.
“We are excited to host the 2nd Container Shipping Summit in Singapore,” said Yasuki Iwai, Managing Director, ONE. “At ONE, we are committed to building a sustainable society through container shipping. We believe this summit provides an opportunity for like-minded individuals and organizations to connect and collaborate.”
The 2nd Container Shipping Summit will be held at Marina One West Tower in Singapore.
Marine Masters successfully concludes Israel crane and jetty project
Leading salvage expert Marine Masters has successfully salvaged and removed a collapsed 1200 tonne coal transfer crane and a portion of the associated jetty damaged during extreme weather conditions on 13 March 2023 in Ashkelon, Israel. The operations were carried out so as to minimise any further impact on the marine environment in the aftermath of the incident.
Contracted by EDT Group, Marine Masters provided salvage and engineering expertise to remove all debris and crane components from the remaining structure and seabed. Having performed an examination of the crane’s technical documents and a review of the sister coal transfer crane present on site, the engineering team quickly defined exact locations for the subsea cuts by the salvage divers to allow for the structure’s total recovery from the seabed. The team worked rapidly over 7 weeks, despite being impacted by geopolitical conflict, and completed work ahead of schedule.
Danny Spaans, Director of Marine Masters, commented: “We are very pleased to have completed this project ahead of the initially estimated schedule. Despite challenges such as the heavy entangled crane and bridge components, significant underwater cutting and access difficulties, the Marine Masters team delivered swift results without compromising safety. This was largely due to the supportive, flexible and transparent working environment in place with EDT Group, with whom we collaborated closely.”
EDT Group provided main contractor project management services, which includes compliance with local legislations surrounding marine work and HSE. In addition, they also provided the marine plant, which included crane barges, anchor handling tugs, diving systems and other equipment and tools as needed for the execution of the project. The project utilised single point lifts wherever possible to ensure that subsea cutting and rigging works were minimised wherever possible, saving diving time and enabling the speedier recovery and removal of the collapsed crane.
Following the removal of the 25mt electric house lift and the 80mt heavy mechanical house, a controlled collapse of the remaining crane parts was performed and then all the sections were extracted. The team also removed a 200mt damaged section of the jetty and related debris from the seabed.
Miki Peleg, a manager at EDT Group, said: “We are very pleased with how this project was executed and were impressed by the Marine Masters team. Skilled personnel, combined with a collaborative approach and a flexible mindset, create the right formula for success, particularly in a complex endeavour. Our joint efforts on this project have allowed normal operations in the area to resume.”
LSEG deploys Windward AI capabilities to combat ‘sanctions-busting’ across global shipping
Artificial Intelligence (AI) is to play a pivotal role in tackling sanctions risks in global shipping following a partnership between LSEG (London Stock Exchange Group) and Windward AI.
Windward’s maritime AI-powered technology will augment existing shipping analytic capabilities available on the LSEG Workspace platform in real-time. It will track approximately 117,200 vessels currently at sea globally including oil tankers, dry bulk carriers and container vessels.
Then, using AI and advanced behavioural risk assessments models, the technology screens against criteria which could be an indicator of illicit activity to determine a risk profile. This could include ‘going dark’ – turning off or altering an AIS tracking device, visiting the port of a sanctioned country, and/or loitering in a sanctioned area.
The ongoing Russian-Ukrainian War has shone a spotlight on sanctions risk and the importance of compliance, with data showing 42% of all high-risk tankers being Russian-affiliated. There has also been a significant increase in deceptive shipping practices by these vessels including dark activity and ship-to-ship transfers, making compliance especially complex.
The risk of businesses unintentionally breaching sanctions is ever increasing and on 23 June 2023, the European Union took steps to bolster their response to these evasive tactics, announcing an 11th package of sanctions against Russia including:
- prohibition on accessing EU ports for vessels that engage in ship-to-ship transfers suspected to be in breach of the Russian oil import ban or G7 Coalition price cap;
- prohibition on accessing EU ports for vessels if a vessel does not notify the competent authority at least 48 hours in advance about a ship-to-ship transfer occurring within the Exclusive Economic Zone of a Member State or within 12 nautical miles from the baseline of that Member State’s coast; and
- prohibition on accessing EU ports for vessels which manipulate or turn off their navigation tracking system when transporting Russian oil subject to the oil import ban or G7 price cap.
Fabrice Maille, Head of Shipping & Agriculture at LSEG, comments: “By blending Windward’s vessel risk profiling with LSEG shipping analytics capabilities, we can now equip our trading and chartering users with the best solution to assess and mitigate the sanctions compliance risks in the maritime space as part of their daily workflow.”
Windward AI co-founder and CEO, Ami Daniel (pictured), comments: “We are thrilled to join forces with LSEG to provide crucial insights into maritime risk, a must for anyone involved in maritime trade. In this turbulent environment, it is more important than ever for stakeholders to be aware of all evolving risks.
“By combining our maritime AI technology with LSEG’s comprehensive market data and reach, we are strategically poised to revolutionise risk management in the maritime domain. Our joint efforts will empower stakeholders with actionable insights, enabling them to navigate the complexities of global trade risk with confidence.”
PSA becomes new shareholder of Duisburg Gateway Terminal GmbH
PSA International Pte Ltd (PSA), headquartered in Singapore, has signed agreements to acquire a 22 percent minority stake in Duisburg Gateway Terminal GmbH (DGT). The transaction is subject to the approval of Germany’s competition and supervisory authorities. Upon completion of transaction, PSA will join Hupac, HTS and duisport as shareholders of DGT.
Located in the Port of Duisburg, DGT will be the first 100% climate-neutral inland container terminal located in the European hinterlands. Cosco divested its 30% share in the project last October.
"We are pleased to have gained an important strategic partner for the DGT company in PSA, which will contribute significantly to the success of the Duisburg Gateway Terminal with its various business segments in Europe, Asia and worldwide,” says duisport CEO Markus Bangen. “This network expansion strengthens both the competitive diversity and the further diversification of the Port of Duisburg. The topic of supply chain diversification has an increasingly important meaning."
Tan Chong Meng, Group CEO of PSA, says, “We are excited to become a partner in Duisburg Gateway Terminal, alongside its existing shareholders duisport, HUPAC and HTS. As part of Europe’s largest and most sustainable inland port, DGT will be a key gateway in providing green logistics services to Germany’s dense industrial hinterland.
“Leveraging PSA’s global ports and supply chain network as well as its strong presence in continental Europe, PSA aims to strengthen the DGT partnership and support Germany’s green energy transition in line with our strategic focus towards enabling smoother, more resilient and sustainable trade.”
The construction of the trimodal DGT is on schedule and is considered a model project for the future of logistics. With an area of 235,000 square meters, DGT will be the largest container terminal in the European hinterland when completed. The first construction phase is scheduled for completion in the first quarter of 2024.
ERMA FIRST launches FLEXCAP for improved CII and EEXI performance
A new energy saving device (ESD) from Greece-based sustainable maritime solutions provider ERMA FIRST promises to boost CII (Carbon Intensity Index) and EEXI (Energy Efficiency Existing Ship Index) performance by reducing fuel consumption and emissions.
ERMA FIRST FLEXCAP builds on the proven capabilities of propeller boss cap fins to optimise maritime efficiency and sustainability. By enabling fins to catch and absorb the rotating water force, the solution weakens the propeller hub vortex, reduces torque and means more energy can be channelled back into the propulsion drive train as thrust.
The resultant increase in propulsive efficiency can yield fuel savings of two to five per cent, which translates into operational cost savings and a relatively quick return on investment. Crucially, ERMA FIRST FLEXCAP also achieves a reduction in ship greenhouse gas emissions and improves CII and EEXI performance.
Konstantinos Stampedakis, ERMA FIRST Co-Founder and Managing Director, said: “Meeting the IMO’s long-term emissions-reduction targets will rely on a range of solutions including alternative fuels and optimised vessel design, but as a practical and cost-effective means of achieving regulatory compliance, ESDs also have a major part to play. ERMA FIRST FLEXCAP is easy to install, maintain and repair and facilitates significant reductions in fuel consumption and emissions. It is a breakthrough in maritime ESDs.”
Thanks to its modular design, ERMA FIRST FLEXCAP is easy to adjust or upgrade in line with changing conditions and evolving requirements, making it a future-proof solution that supports long-term sustainability. Provided the vessel can be sufficiently trimmed, the technology can be installed while the ship is afloat. Alternatively, installation can be carried out while the vessel is at sea using underwater services. Once fitted, the only maintenance the solution needs is polishing during routine cleaning intervals.
Made from nickel-aluminium bronze, the same metallic alloy used for many propellers, ERMA FIRST FLEXCAP is highly durable and can even extend the service life of the propeller by reducing cavitation. It can also be deployed to minimise propeller-induced noise and vibrations, which are thought to have a negative impact on marine life.
The launch of FLEXCAP reflects ERMA FIRST’s commitment to supporting the shipping industry’s green transition and decarbonisation journey by diversifying and expanding its product range. Specialising in ballast water treatment systems, the company also launched an alternative maritime power solution, BLUE CONNECT, in August 2022.
Bernhard Schulte Offshore orders two CSOVs from Ulstein in Norway
Bernhard Schulte Offshore returns to Ulstein Verft for the design and construction of two Commissioning Service Operation Vessels (CSOVs) of the ULSTEIN SX222 design. The contract includes options for four additional vessels.
The vessels, which utilise the TWIN X-STERN design, feature two sterns and main propellers located at both fore and aft, making them an ideal choice for Dynamic Positioning (DP) operations. Regardless of whether the vessels are facing towards or away from the weather, they maintain excellent operability without any restrictions on speed. With the TWIN X-STERN solution, the ships can achieve improved fuel efficiency while also minimising motion, the latter a crucial element for safety as the technicians need high-quality rest to perform their duties.
“The reliability and characteristics in design and construction work that we have experienced in previous newbuilding and conversion projects have led us to Ulstein again. Their commitment to innovation and the outstanding quality of the Ulstein shipyard were key factors in our decision. The excellent reputation of our existing fleet of Ulstein SOVs shows that the market appreciates these criteria,” says Matthias Müller, Managing Director at Bernhard Schulte Offshore.
“The energy transition is crucial to achieving the climate goals, and the offshore wind industry plays a significant role in this transition. We believe these new CSOVs will serve Bernhard Schulte Offshore well in the coming years, as do the previous three we have designed and delivered to them. We appreciate working with Bernhard Schulte Offshore again and the trust they place in us,” says Ulstein Group CEO Cathrine Kristiseter Marti.
“After the first newbuild contracts in 2015 and again in 2018, and the upgrade of the ‘Windea Leibniz’ which we completed this year, we are very pleased to now sign a shipbuilding contract at Ulstein Verft for vessel no 4 and 5 for Bernhard Schulte Offshore. There is a great cooperation spirit between the parties, and we are looking forward to working together once more. The vessels are planned for delivery in 2025, and we will do our utmost to live up to the owner's expectations,” comments Kolbjørn Moldskred, sales manager at Ulstein Verft.
The ships have a large, centrally positioned walk to work motion compensated gangway and elevator tower for personnel and cargo transfers. Furthermore, a 3D compensated crane capable of 5-ton-offshore-cargo lifts is installed. The optimised on-board logistics includes large storage capacities and stepless approach to the offshore installations.
The vessels have a length of 89.6 m and a beam of 19.2 m. The SX222 design platform is adapted to the shipowner's needs, including single cabins for 110 persons. In total, the vessels will be able to accommodate 132 people. The ships will have hybrid battery propulsion and be prepared for methanol fuel to enable carbon-neutral operations. The ships are flexible and attractive for work within areas such as O&M (Operation and Maintenance) or construction support, especially in challenging weather and sea conditions.
The two newbuildings will complement Bernhard Schulte Offshore's current fleet of three state-of-the-art offshore service vessels. The existing fleet and the upcoming newbuildings are highly flexible in operation and designed to support the offshore wind energy market as well as the oil and gas segment.
Shipping set for ‘€3 billion-plus’ 2024 EU ETS bill
The European Union’s Monitoring, Reporting and Verification (EU MRV) dataset for shipping’s European CO2 emissions for the year 2022 has just been published, the data highlighting some significant year-on-year changes from 2021 despite the shipping industry as a whole showing a modest reduction in emissions, reports Wilhelmsen-linked advisory company Hecla Emissions Management.
The EU MRV regulation requires all ships exceeding 5,000 gross tons to collect and report data on CO2 emissions released to and from EU and EEA ports and will serve as the basis for shipping’s inclusion in the EU Emissions Trading System (ETS) from 1 January 2024.
Total ETS-applicable emissions for the maritime industry amounted to 83.4 million metric tonnes of CO2 equivalent (tCO2e) in 2022, a modest decrease of 0.22% from 2021. At the current market value of €90 per emissions allowance (EUA), shipping emissions carried a total worth of €7.5 billion for the year.
Taking into account the ETS phase-in period covering 40% of emissions in 2024, 70% in 2025 and 100% in 2026, and utilizing the forward curve in EUAs, Hecla Emissions Management estimates indicate that the shipping industry could be liable for €3.1 billion in 2024, €5.7 billion in 2025 and €8.4 billion in 2026.
The data showed emissions decreases across multiple shipping segments, including tankers, container ships, general cargo ships, reefers, Ro-Ros and chemical tankers. The container sector showed the largest reduction, falling by 8.95% equating to 2.3 million metric tonnes of CO2 equivalent (tCO2e) saved.
However, passenger ships and LNG carriers logged substantial increases. The former scored highest, with a staggering 118% year-on-year rise equating to 2.8 million (tCO2e), the latter recording a 63% increase equating to 2.1 million tCO2e.
It is important to note that the changes in emissions levels are less reflective of improved environmental operations as they are of altered European trade patterns.
Container shipping, for example, experienced a bumper year in 2021 versus a noticeably cooler market in 2022, while LNG carriers saw a dramatic trading shift away from Asia towards Europe as Europe reduced its reliance on pipeline gas in the wake of Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, importing significantly more LNG by sea.
“The projected liabilities emphasize the importance of shipping companies preparing for their entry into the ETS,” said Hugo Wilson (pictured), Director of Hecla Emissions Management. “We have been onboarding customers from across shipping’s value chain in order to have them fully prepared by the start of next year. We encourage more shipping companies to do the same.”
Hecla Emissions Management was established by Wilhelmsen Ship Management (WSM) and Affinity Shipping LLP in 2022 to assist shipping clients with each of the compliance obligations associated with EU ETS participation. This ranges from setting up relevant accounts to management and administration of registry requirements and instant access to buy and sell EUAs. The joint venture has offices in Oslo and London.
WSM has long experience in ship management, counting more than 450 ships in its global portfolio, while Affinity has shipbroking branches on five continents and a dedicated carbon advisory and trading desk that has been active since 2019.
IINO LINES, J-Power and Norsepower to install world's first rotor sail on a dedicated coal carrier
IINO Kaiun Kaisha, Ltd. (IINO LINES) and Electric Power Development Co., Ltd. (J-POWER) have agreed to install a Norsepower Rotor Sail™ on the dedicated coal carrier YODOHIME (completed in February 2016).
This is the world's first use of the Norsepower Rotor Sail™ on a bulk vessel that is dedicated to coal cargoes, and the installation will take place in Q3 2024.
The Norsepower Rotor Sail™, measuring 24m high x 4m diameter, is an innovative modernised version of the Flettner rotor. It uses the vessel’s electric power to rotate the cylinder-shaped rotors on the deck. These rotating sails use the wind to generate powerful thrust, resulting in the reduction of fuel consumption and CO2 emissions by approximately 6-10% in combination with the navigation optimisation system.
This is the second vessel for IINO LINES following a Very Large Gas Carrier (VLGC) to be equipped with the Norsepower Rotor Sail™ and the company will continue to actively promote initiatives for clean marine transport services to become carbon neutral in line with the theme set out in its mid-term management plan.
This is the second time that J-POWER has installed a wind propulsion auxiliary system on a dedicated coal carrier. J-POWER will continue to take on the challenge of achieving carbon neutrality as set forth in J-POWER's ‘BLUE MISSION 2050’ in February 2021.
Wärtsilä Automation, Navigation and Control Systems (ANCS) selects Fleet Xpress for AHTI ‘floating laboratory’
Inmarsat Maritime, a Viasat business, will connect Wärtsilä ANCS’s new floating laboratory, AHTI, and its shore operations, to support the data exchange for advanced technology testing and the ship’s day to day operations. Inmarsat Maritime’s award-winning Fleet Xpress connectivity will be packaged with unlimited back-up from FleetBroadband to meet all the demonstrator’s needs.
AHTI uses seamless, high-speed and reliable connectivity to create a seaborne environment where customers can test Wärtsilä ANCS’s own technologies and its technology partners’ solutions, all of which aims to reduce the environmental impact of commercial shipping. Through the programme, Wärtsilä ANCS tests new technologies to offer real-time insights into a vessel’s performance, energy use and the impact on commercial shipping. This provides a safer, faster, and more cost-effective setting for tests than a ship in service while still delivering accurate insights into performance at sea for test centre staff ashore.
Michael Christiansen, Vice President, Wärtsilä ANCS said: “AHTI reduces time to market by providing a faithful reflection of a technology’s capabilities and limitations on the open water without the risks, red tape and costs that come with full-scale sea trials. As a floating laboratory, the vessel depends on reliable, high-speed connectivity, meaning that Inmarsat’s market-leading VSAT service, Fleet Xpress, is an important addition on board.”
Inmarsat’s Service Provider for the project, DRYNET, is also one of the Wärtsilä ANCS technology partners contributing to AHTI’s operations. The company selected Fleet Xpress and FleetBroadband as the best solution to provide a ‘multi-modal wide-area network’ for the ship.
Holger Ritter, Managing Partner, DRYNET GmbH, said: “Equipped with Inmarsat’s Fleet Xpress with always-on back-up from FleetBroadband, AHTI has the reliability, resilience, and redundancy it requires to remain constantly connected. The multi-modal connectivity package can also handle the vast quantities of data that AHTI generates, providing a strong foundation for applications such as enhanced situational awareness and remote control.”
Scott Middleton, Regional Sales Director, Inmarsat Maritime, said: “With AHTI, Wärtsilä ANCS has created a means of demonstrating maritime technology that circumvents the usual challenges associated with testing at sea or in shore-based laboratories. We are proud to have been chosen as connectivity partner for a project that promises to accelerate maritime digitalisation, and we are grateful for the support of our long-time collaborator and Inmarsat Service Provider DRYNET.”
AMPTC to install StormGeo’s Environmental Performance module fleetwide
Arab Maritime Petroleum Transport Company (AMPTC) has implemented StormGeo's cutting-edge environmental performance management solution across its entire fleet to effectively manage the environmental performance of its fleet and adhere to evolving GHG regulations. AMPTC recently solidified a three-year agreement to use StormGeo’s Environmental Performance module in s-Insight on all tanker vessels at AMPTC’s disposal.
"At AMPTC, we perform intensive market research on the solutions available before we reach a decision on whom we will partner with,” said Mr. Abdul Shahid Khashan, Technical Manager at AMPTC. “After months of analysis and market surveys, we couldn't find a better, more efficient solution than StormGeo's Fleet Performance Management (s-Insight) to partner with and use onboard our fleet of tankers. We are happy to start this long-term relationship and look forward to expanding our usage of the platform as it develops and grows."
Incorporating StormGeo's technology into its voyage performance optimization toolkit enables AMPTC to transform its fleet's commercial and environmental performance. By improving data quality and facilitating seamless data management, StormGeo's Environmental Performance solutions will assist AMPTC in navigating sustainability regulations with greater ease.
"It is our pleasure at StormGeo to welcome AMPTC as a new client from Middle East,” said Hesham Moustafa, StormGeo's representative in Dubai. “We see and value the importance of helping Middle East shipowners and charterers achieve their GHG targets by supporting them with our latest technologies and services that will benefit both our planet and the maritime industry for a greener future. We are ready to bring value to the AMPTC's fleet with accurate and reliable data and expertise that proved to show results."
StormGeo's Environmental Performance module in s-Insight is a comprehensive tool to monitor the environmental impact on emissions, improve environmental performance, and keep the fleet compliant with decarbonization regulations and initiatives through simple, trustworthy data reporting and validation. The module is part of StormGeo's s-Suite, a complete, one-stop shipping solution to optimize time, fuel, and vessel performance while ensuring navigational and environmental compliance.
Cleaner shipping receives £34 million UK Government boost with next round of innovative tech funding
The UK maritime sector was given greater support to deliver innovative solutions and new technology in the race to decarbonise the industry and grow the economy, as the national Government committed an extra £34 million of funding, as part of the Clean Maritime Demonstration Competition (CMDC) today (7 July).
With the fourth round of funding, this brings the total invested through the CMDC to £129 million. The competition looks to foster and promote the continued progress towards reaching our net zero goals through the development of novel and sustainable technologies that will help connect people, goods and services in a cleaner, greener way.
Maritime Minister Baroness Charlotte Vere of Norbiton (pictured) said: “Pushing the boundaries of possibility is integral to the UK’s global ambition of a greener maritime sector. That’s why today’s new round of funding continues to set that course, not only keeping our climate goals on track but also boosting opportunities for private investment, new jobs and growing the economy.
“The UK’s maritime sector is one of the most competitive and innovative in the world and today’s latest Clean Maritime Demonstration Competition funding is testament to that.”
Today’s funding will open for applications on 2 August until 27 September. The competition scope and eligibility criteria are available to read on the competition webpage now. Prospective bids will be assessed against a range of criteria to see how likely they will deliver on real world demonstrations of clean maritime technology. This can include everything from creating alternative fuel sources for freight ships to pushing the limits of battery powered vessels.
A total of 105 projects across the UK have been awarded more than £95m in the first three rounds of the Clean Maritime Demonstration Competition to support the design and development of clean maritime solutions towards commercialisation. One example of this is MJR Controls, which has been developing a charging system that can be installed on offshore wind turbines. This will power electric crew transfer boats and maintenance vessels operating in offshore wind farms, reducing carbon emissions.
Elsewhere, Collins River Enterprises has been awarded £6 million of funding to demonstrate a zero-emission electric river ferry from Canary Wharf to Rotherhithe in London. The ferry will provide a sustainable alternative to a polluting drive or busy tube and create a blueprint for sustainable ferry crossings across the UK and around the world.
IMO agrees new climate plan for global shipping, but not 1.5°C aligned
Environmental groups are deeply concerned by the IMO failure to firmly align global shipping with the Paris Agreement’s 1.5°C temperature-warming limit, at the 80th Marine Environment Protection Committee meeting (MEPC 80) this week.
The IMO’s 175 member states failed to agree on absolute emission reduction targets for 2030 and 2040, but instead identified “indicative checkpoints” of at least 20%, striving for 30% emission reduction by 2030, and at least 70%, striving for 80% reduction by 2040. The strategy also aims to reach only net-zero “by or around, i.e. close to 2050”, depending on “national circumstances”.
While these targets are not strong enough to put shipping on a 1.5°C-aligned pathway set by the Paris Agreement, says NGO the Clean Shipping Alliance, this target remains within reach if national governments and regions now step up with their own measures to enforce lower emissions faster.
However, a global carbon price, supported by over 70 developing and developed countries, has been moved forward as an “economic measure” under the IMO’s basket of measures despite opposition from some countries.
The environmentalist lobby’s disappointment was perhaps best summed up by Rasmus Bjerring Larsen, shipping policy officer at Green Transition Denmark, who said: “Today's deal is a significant but still inadequate step towards emissions free shipping. It is now clear that decarbonisation is coming to shipping, albeit too late. It is also clear that a broad majority of countries led by the Pacific Island states are ready for urgent climate action. So are progressive shipowners.
“In this light, it is a real disappointment that the IMO could not agree to phase out fossil fuels by 2050. It is now up to industry, progressive member states and regions such as the EU to push beyond what the IMO could agree to, and bring shipping in line with the 1.5 degrees target.”
METIS ShaPoLi functionality receives BV type approval
METIS Cyberspace Technology has received type approval from Bureau Veritas covering the functionality of its user-friendly solution for monitoring and reporting shaft power limitation (ShaPoLi).
Offering relative simplicity, cost efficiency and minimal impact on vessel operations, ShaPoLi has emerged as an effective means of ensuring that ships comply with the IMO’s Energy Efficiency Existing Ship Index (EEXI) regulation.
ShaPoLi works by restricting maximum shaft power output to a percentage of its original output depending on the ship’s individual EEXI requirements. Since engine power is closely linked to fuel usage, power limitation decreases hourly consumption and reduces emissions as a result. However, ShaPoLi is subject to mandatory conditions.
“A resolution adopted by the IMO in 2021 stipulates that power limitation can only be overridden in the interests of the ship's safety or to save life at sea,” said Andreas Symeonidis, Marketing and Partner Relations Manager, METIS Cyberspace Technology. “Such cases must be recorded, documented and available for audit by the authorities if requested.”
The METIS ShaPoLi solution collects measurements from the torque meter, with an interface panel installed on the bridge displaying the actual shaft power alongside the maximum permitted value. If this value is exceeded, the panel issues an audible and visual alert and creates an event (including position & time stamps), requiring the captain to specify why the limit was breached.
Type approval for METIS ShaPoLi functionality demonstrates that it fully meets the performance expectations of Class on continuous shaft power monitoring, reporting and recording.
METIS SPL is available on a standalone basis, where it can be applied effectively by owners and operators which do not use other METIS Services. However, Symeonidis added that its value is most fully realised when used as part of an integrated AI-based METIS management solution covering all aspects of vessel performance and compliance. In a typical scenario, METIS SPL could be used as part of integrated performance management to ensure that ship operations were continuously being optimised, for later reporting on compliance and time charter party terms.
“Type approval from BV represents an official endorsement of the value that our easy-to-use ShaPoLi functionality offers ship owners,” commented Symeonidis. “The idea of METIS SPL is not to force shaft power to remain within its defined limits; rather, the system is designed to monitor, inform and record. Shaft power limitation is a practical means of meeting EEXI obligations, and our solution helps owners to extract the full benefit of their ShaPoLi system.”
ZeroNorth contributes to Vessel Emissions Reporting Standard proposal for noon reports
Technology company ZeroNorth and Energy LEAP, a strategic alliance between energy majors, together with other industry partners have published a draft proposal for consultation for a Vessel Emissions Reporting Standard (VERS 0.9), the organisations have announced. This work is the initial outcome of broader work towards defining and releasing a noon report standard.
The new open standard is the culmination of eight months of consultation and collaboration with ship owners, charterers, energy majors, association bodies and software vendors, and sets out to enable emissions reporting required by law, supporting decarbonisation and regulatory compliance.
A standard way of managing and reporting emissions data is fundamental to tracking progress and ensuring compliance with the IMO’s decarbonisation goals. VERS 0.9 aims to create a standard outlining the data points that should be collected on a daily basis. This will improve the quality of the data operators collect, as well as further assist owners in reporting on emissions at the end of each year.
Vessel data that is collected today is based on past industry data needs. As the industry evolves and new requirements around environmental reporting arise, noon reports or vessel reports also need to adapt. A new standard is needed to enable owners to overcome the challenges of both required and voluntary emissions reporting.
Broader industry context, including continued discussion about how the industry reports its own environmental impact, has intensified the need for collaboration. There is now a growing recognition for industry-agreed data standards, as a foundation for any roadmap for genuine emissions improvements. VERS 0.9 will provide a validated data set to advise vessel owners and operators on what data needs to be collected to ensure they are able to respond to today’s ever-increasing environmental and commercial reporting requirements.
In this way, the standard sets out the data required to facilitate regulatory and voluntary emissions reporting. VERS 0.9 can be used by vessel reporting providers such as ZeroNorth to understand the data points that need to be incorporated into their solutions, or as a checklist for owners to ensure the right data is being captured by crew across their fleet.
VERS 0.9 is designed for both daily data collection, aligning with traditional noon report approaches, and for the possible collection of data at key or significant points during a voyage. Other information covered by the standard includes the specific charter party clauses that are agreed upon when planning a voyage, fuel consumption, cargo carried, and CII correction factors.
The proposed standard marks the first step on a wider roadmap aimed at defining a standard which enables the full current range of emissions reporting requirements. Once adopted, this will bring a step-change in the capability of industry players to deliver on their emissions reporting obligations.
In all, VERS 0.9 will improve the regularity of emissions data being captured by ships, powering up the industry’s ability to make a real impact on reducing emissions. The standard has been published for a period of industry consultation and will be finalised as version 1.0 once consultation is completed in September 2023.
Lora Jakobsen (pictured), Chief Purpose Activist, ZeroNorth, said: “We’re proud to be part of the cross-industry working group that has worked together with Energy LEAP and other industry leaders to develop a vessel emissions reporting standard. As our industry grows increasingly complex, it’s critical that we work together to match our environmental actions with robust reporting requirements.
“Making global trade green will take multilateral action across the value chain. Creating a standard data set to be collected daily on vessels is critical to ensure owners can enhance emissions reporting, set benchmarks and accurately measure the amount of CO2 currently being emitted, and ultimately improve on those emissions.”
VERS 0.9 has been developed by a working group led by Energy LEAP, with ZeroNorth bringing its direct expertise in optimising voyages, vessels, fleets and bunker to the collaboration. As a continued part of its mission to global trade green, ZeroNorth has also facilitated engagement with its own Impact Today working group, helping to broaden engagement on the VERS 0.9 standard.
Coach Solutions releases shipping’s first EU ETS carbon allowance calculator
Coach Solutions, a leading provider of maritime data solutions, has released a calculator to enable vessel operators to calculate sailing costs under the EU Emissions Trading System (EU ETS).
Integrated into the Coach Solutions voyage optimisation platform, the calculator provides a simplified means of estimating the additional voyage costs of buying EU ETS carbon allowances against a specific vessel. Users can adjust parameters based on voyage length and speed to understand the impact of slow steaming or different route options.
The calculator uses a dynamic model for the cost of EU emissions allowances, allowing for price changes as the shipping industry joins the scheme and the availability of credits changes over time.
The EU ETS becomes a reality for the maritime industry from January 2024. To ensure a smooth transition, vessel operators will be given a three-year phase-in period where they will surrender allowances for a portion of verified emissions, from 40% in 2024 to 70% in 2025 and 100% in 2026.
Emissions allowances can already be bought on the open market and many owners have begun doing so already in the hope that they will pay a lower price now than they would next year or to cover cargoes already in the book.
However, for vessels not operated by the owner - which is the case for large parts of the bulker and tanker industry - the owner may transfer the responsibility of the allowances to the charterer as part of the charter contract. This will involve a transfer of emissions allowances from the charterer to the owner, either during the charter period or upon completion.
“We talked with our clients and sought their views on the ETS and their forward planning and found that despite the noise around this subject there was no tool that could help them understand what it means for them,” says Christian Råe Holm, Head of Performance Management, Coach Solutions. “Our customers work across the different tramp segments in wet and dry bulk and it seemed obvious that this kind of functionality could help our customers prepare and plan for this new era.”
MLA graduate aiming for the top in support of Sailors’ Society
Gordon Foot, a veteran in the maritime industry, is preparing to embark on an awe-inspiring challenge to climb Mount Kilimanjaro, Africa's highest peak.
A graduate of UK-based MLA (formerly Marine Learning Alliance) College, a higher education establishment specialising in maritime distance learning, Gordon aims to raise funds for the charity Sailors’ Society, which provides essential support and welfare services to seafarers worldwide. He trains hard for the difficult climb and is filled with enthusiasm and determination to conquer the formidable heights of the Tanzanian volcano.
Sailors’ Society is an organization providing invaluable assistance to seafarers and their families. It does things like offering emotional support, mental health counselling, and practical assistance during times of crisis.
By taking on the physical and mental challenges that await him on Mount Kilimanjaro, Gordon hopes to shed light on the crucial work carried out by the Sailors’ Society and raise much-needed funds to continue their mission. As he reaches for the summit, he will carry with him the hopes and dreams of countless seafarers who rely on Sailors’ Society's support.
Gordon is seeking sponsorship from all avenues and is hoping that his friends and colleagues can his fund-raising efforts by making a donation at: https://www.justgiving.com/fundraising/gordon-foot
ICS welcomes ‘historic’ deal on GHG emissions, urges adoption of global levy
Shipping industry body the International Chamber of Shipping re-asserts that a global levy on ships’ greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions must now be adopted rapidly if the ambitious goals agreed are to remain plausible.
Speaking at the close of the intensive two-week session of the IMO negotiations in London, Simon Bennett (pictured), the body’s Deputy Secretary General, remarked: “ICS greatly welcomes the ambitious agreement reached by governments at IMO today for shipping to achieve net zero emissions ‘by or around 2050’, in line with the Paris Agreement and the commitment made by the shipping industry at COP 26 in Glasgow back in 2021.
“This historic IMO agreement gives a very strong signal to ship operators and, most importantly, to energy producers who must now urgently supply zero GHG marine fuels in very large quantities if such a rapid transition is to be possible.”
Simon Bennett added: “The checkpoints agreed for 2030 and 2040 are particularly ambitious. The industry will do everything possible to achieve these goals including the 70 to 80 percent absolute reduction of GHG emissions now demanded of the entire global shipping sector by 2040.
“But this can only be achieved if IMO rapidly agrees to a global levy on ships’ GHG emissions to support a ‘fund and reward’ mechanism, as proposed by the industry,” he continued. “We urgently need to reduce the cost gap between conventional and alternative marine fuels and incentivise the production and uptake of new fuels at the scale now required to meet this accelerated transition. 2040 is less than 17 years away and the availability of zero GHG marine fuels today is virtually zero.
“It is very positive that a majority of governments now support a levy for shipping involving flat rate contributions by ships per tonne of GHG emitted to an IMO fund to expedite a rapid transition. The ICS ‘fund and reward’ proposal remains firmly on the table as a deliverable solution and will now be subject to a comprehensive impact assessment by UNCTAD to be completed by early next year, so that an economic measure can be adopted in 2025. This will be vital it we are to reach a take-off point by 2030 for the use of new fuels to achieve the extremally ambitious goal which IMO has now set for 2040.
“ICS is confident that this economic impact assessment will demonstrate that the ‘fund and reward’ proposal, or something similar, is the only practical way forward if the ambitious GHG reduction targets agreed by IMO this week are to remain realistic and achievable.
“This week’s agreement is historic for our industry and sends a very strong message that the maritime sector is serious about achieving net zero and addressing dangerous climate change in line with the Paris Agreement,” concluded Mr Bennett.
BIMCO hails adoption of ‘landmark’ IMO Strategy on GHG reductions
IMO’s decision that by 2040, the world fleet must have reduced its total GHG emissions by more than 70% compared to 2008 is seen as ‘ground-breaking’ by BIMCO. The newly adopted IMO GHG reduction strategy translates to a reduction of around 90% on average at the individual ship level due to expected fleet growth, it says, and 2040 is only 17 years from now.
Newer ships already on the water and those on order will exist well beyond 2040 and the emissions reduction outlined in the strategy will apply to these ships.
BIMCO President Nikolaus Schües (pictured) recognises the monumental change the shipping industry is now facing, saying: “I cannot stress strongly enough to my colleagues in the industry that this is already happening as we speak. The profound change in the way ships must be built, operated and fuelled will impact every shipowner on the planet. Investment decisions need to be reassessed, designs need change and business models will be forever impacted.”
Mr Schües continues: “Climate change affects all of us and serves as a reminder that actions to limit our emissions must be taken urgently. BIMCO is grateful to the IMO member states for setting out in clear terms the pathway the shipping industry needs to follow in order to transition each and every ship in the world fleet to a net-zero GHG emission future.”
The 2023 IMO Strategy on reduction of GHG emissions from ships also establishes the timeline for the introduction of mandatory measures to ensure the pathway will be followed. BIMCO looks forward to contributing to the development of these crucial measures which must enter into force by 2027.
ClassNK releases annual report on Port State Control
The report is prepared to enhance awareness of the present state of PSC and improve future onboard maintenance and inspections as well as Safety Management Systems. It includes statistics and information analysis on ships detained by PSC and deficiencies identified in 2022.
ClassNK will continue our efforts to increase the transparency of information related to PSC and eliminate substandard vessels.
The annual report is available to download on ClassNK’s website.
https://www.classnk.or.jp/hp/en/info_service/psc/
Open hatch ship operator G2 Ocean joins ICHCA as part of its commitment to safety
Global cargo handling association announces a new member from the key ship owning community. Gearbulk and Grieg Maritime joint venture G2 Ocean is seeking to share with and learn from the ICHCA’s (International Cargo Handling Coordination Association) extensive network to improve safety for those in both the shore-side and sea-going workforce.
In pursuing its primary mission to improve the safe working environment of all those handling cargo throughout the international maritime supply chain, ICHCA encourages all infrastructure owners and operators to engage in constructive dialogue. As such the news of a new member of the statue of G2 Ocean, controlling as it does one of the largest fleets of open hatch ships in the world, is of considerable significance to the advancement of safety standards at the ship-shore interface.
“Once more the addition of a member to ICHCA which has an avowed commitment to safety and is proactively investigating the mechanics of day-to-day improvements is cause for celebration,” said Richard Steele, ICHCA’s CEO. “The fact that the additional member is a vessel owner of such size and influence in major maritime commodity trades is more reason for approbation.”
G2 Ocean was launched in 2017 by two of the then largest open hatch vessel owners, Gearbulk and the Grieg Maritime Group. Both partners possess a core culture of sustainability and care for the environment. Moreover, they clearly understand that in order to sustain these values there must be an over-riding commitment to the safety of the labour force employed in all aspects of the operation of their, now combined even larger fleet.
In commenting on his organisation’s move, Phil Curran, Managing Director of Operations at G2 Ocean said: “Our aim is to be a safety leader within the open hatch vessel segment. We are committed to achieving zero incidents in our operations. This will require close collaboration with all our stakeholders, including stevedoring companies and terminals. We view our membership of ICHCA as an opportunity to seek and share insights on safety. Together, we can create safer working conditions for crew and stevedores in all the ports where we operate.”
Key to ICHCA’s successful past safety initiatives and central to all its future efforts is collaboration, raising standards in unity. To extend its collective expertise is the Association’s primary goal, ensuring both the widest possible knowledge of safety challenges in every aspect of cargo handling, and providing a forum for concerted will to find mutual solutions. “G2 Ocean’s accession to such a group of like-minded enterprises has to be good news for our achievement of such goals,” concluded Steele.
YSA Design re-imagines heritage cruising for ‘reborn’ Trollfjord
Re-imagined interior spaces from YSA Design on a luxury Hurtigruten ship are turning heads all along the Norwegian coast, after a substantial upgrade that meets expectations for future sustainability while paying homage to the owner’s 130-year heritage of stylish cruising.
In June, Trollfjord began making calls along the ‘Svalbard Express’ route that Hurtigruten sustained from 1968 to 1982 as a vital passenger and mail-boat link to the Svalbard archipelago. The first calls launch a full season of cruising that takes in the most northerly inhabited towns in the world.
In an upgrade that also features the use of sustainable power and propulsion technologies on board a ship built in 2002, the 500-guest capacity Trollfjord is “reborn for modern cruising while embodying the heritage of this iconic route”, says Fabiana Vale Dornelas, Senior Interior Architect and Head of Sustainability & Implementation, YSA Design.
YSA Design conceived, refined and project managed delivery of striking interior stylings on board the 16,140gt Trollfjord’s three main restaurants, all cabins and suites, and the conversion of the two-storey upper-deck lounge into the panoramic 1893 Bar plus sun deck area, says Vale Dornelas. In doing so, the designer sought to create ship spaces that encapsulate Norway’s past, present, and future, in a unique blend of modern Scandinavian design, nostalgic flourishes from the golden era of small-ship sailing, and heritage-led choices to incorporate the artistry of the northerly Sámi people.
“From the spatial planning of the restaurant areas, to the carefully chosen décor, the retro menus and the inspirations provided by local cultures, every detail contributes to the immersive experience, combining the charm of the past with modern sophistication,” says Vale Dornelas. Sámi traditionally manufacture articles for everyday use from raw materials available from their surroundings, she adds. This ethos is fully echoed on board Trollfjord, where hard-wearing, locally sourced natural materials such as wool, wood and stone feature prominently throughout.
The mix of modern and heritage styles runs throughout upscale suites and cabins, where YSA Design has used natural textures and warm tones to create a cosy but contemporary feel. The owner’s itinerary foresees Trollfjord engaging with communities through longer stopovers, so that guests experience the rich surrounding heritage. Vale Dornelas emphasises how “story-telling details” are reflected in cabin furnishings which feature Sámi fabric patterns and stitching techniques.
“All along, our aim has been to deliver the style and comfort the modern cruise audience expects while honouring the historic identity of the Svalbard Express to revive the ship’s essence, celebrate Sámi culture and heritage, and embody the sustainable principles of the owner,” she says.
ITIC alerts industry to costs of bill of lading errors
The International Transport Intermediaries Club (ITIC) – a mutual insurer that provides professional indemnity cover for transport intermediaries operating in the marine, offshore, renewable and aviation industries – has urged shipowners, charterers and brokers to be vigilant in reviewing bills of lading (BoL) for potential errors or oversights.
In the latest edition of the Claims Review, which is a collection of recently closed claims, ITIC highlights a case where errors on updated bills of lading resulted in an oil cargo being collected by the wrong consignee and a three-way split for the cost of damages.
In the example case, a ship was headed to a discharge port carrying petroleum product cargo. The charter party contained a clause which allowed the charterers to change the port of discharge and, subsequently, request new bills of lading in exchange for a Letter of Indemnity (LOI). The charterers invoked this clause.
The owner prepared new bills of lading and sent these to the shipbroker to pass on to the charterer. However, the shipbroker neglected to pass the new bills of lading to the charterers. In the meantime, charterers authorised the Master to sign the new bills of lading, assuming that everything else, except the new port of discharge which they had requested, had stayed the same. However, the consignee's name was erroneously changed for unknown reasons on the new bills.
The new consignee collected the cargo before the error had been spotted. The actual consignee and the bank who had provided the letter of credit took action, which delayed the ship. These delays caused an initial loss to the charterer in the region of US$ 400,000.
The charterers claimed against the shipbroker for not passing the amended bills to them for review; as they say, they lost the chance to spot the error. ITIC reminded charterers of their duty to mitigate their losses and pointed out that they had authorised the Master to sign the new bills of lading without seeing them.
After the charterers mitigated the claim, the damages amounted to US$ 75,000, which were then split three ways between charterers (as they had authorised the signing without seeing the bill of lading), owners (as they made the error with the consignee’s name) and shipbrokers (for failing to pass the document to the charterers for review). ITIC paid US$ 25,000 in respect of the shipbroker's share.
“As a provider of professional indemnity insurance to transport intermediaries operating in the marine, offshore, renewable and aviation industries, ITIC regards the sharing of case studies and learnings as an important part of helping industry and individuals to better understand and mitigate risk,” said ITIC’s Claims Director, Mark Brattman. “This case study highlights how seemingly simple errors can have significant implications and serves as a reminder of the need for vigilance by all parties in completing important documentation such as bills of lading.”
Bahamas Maritime Cadet Corps sees increased number of graduates opting for career in shipping
The Bahamas Maritime Cadet Corps (BMCC), which was first established by The Bahamas Ministry of Transport in 2004 to introduce high school students to employment opportunities in the maritime sector and build national capacity, is pleased to announce that more graduates than ever this year have chosen to enter a career in shipping related industries.
Many of this year’s 97 graduating students are opting to join the Royal Bahamas Defence Force or are considering further maritime education. A large number of the Nassau-based students are intending to study at the Bahamas-based LJM Maritime Academy which offers a full range of certification services for maritime professionals. The BMCC programme is also offering Standards for Training and Certification for Watch-Keepers (STCW) approved basic safety training in order to provide the graduates a strategic advantage when applying for some shipboard positions.
In response to the rising interest in maritime, The BMCC is aiming to increase the number of centres offering the programme including in schools on additional islands throughout The Bahamas. It is expected that cadet numbers with these added centres will be in excess of 400 in the coming years.
Captain Dwain Hutchinson, Managing Director and CEO of The Bahamas Maritime Authority, said: “The increasing levels of interest in a maritime career is extremely good news for The Bahamas but also hopefully indicative of increasing interest in our sector worldwide. We are encouraged and pleased to note that numbers of female students in the programme have remained high with 53% of graduates being female, demonstrating that our sector’s commitment to diversity and UN Sustainable Development Goal 5 (Gender Equality) is paying dividends.
“We remain appreciative and wish to recognise The Bahamas Shipowners Association, individual shipowners and other industry stakeholders who have continued to offer their support of The Bahamas’ capacity building efforts through the BMCC programme. The entire BMA teams sends their congratulations to this year’s graduates.”
PSA Vietnam and Saigon Newport Corporation sign MOU
PSA Vietnam Pte Ltd (PSA) and Saigon Newport Corporation (SNP) signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) for cooperation with the aim of promoting sustainable port development and improving supply chain connectivity in Vietnam and the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) region. The signing took place at the Singapore Regional Business Forum held in Hanoi, Vietnam, on 7 July 2023.
The MOU emphasizes the establishment of sustainable partnerships between the two companies, with a common goal of leveraging the understanding and expertise of both sides to guide the development of the SNP business ecosystem and Vietnamese enterprises. The collaboration includes areas in workforce training and development programmes, development of free trade zones, investments and port development, and the application of digital solutions and information technology in port operations.
The MOU was signed in the presence of Vietnam’s Deputy Prime Minister Le Minh Khai and Singapore’s Minister for Manpower and Second Minister for Trade and Industry, Dr Tan See Leng. The MOU is a testament to the warm friendship and cooperative relationship between Singapore and Vietnam and serves as a catalyst to drive and enhance supply chain connectivity between Southeast Asia and the global market, fostering greater trade and economic integration in the region.
Mr Ong Kim Pong (pictured), Regional CEO Southeast Asia, PSA International, said: “We are pleased to extend our collaborative partnership with SNP, a well-established port and supply chain operator in Vietnam. PSA Southeast Asia is committed to advancing our node-to-network strategy, leveraging our strengths in end-to-end multimodal movements, digital technologies and expanding commercial partnerships to provide efficient and sustainable solutions to our
customers. We look forward to working alongside SNP in developing win-win innovations as we co-create a resilient, agile and sustainable supply chain network in this region.”
Mr Nguyen Phuong Nam, Executive Vice Director of SNP, said: “The signing event aligns with our business development direction and strategy, leveraging the strengths of both parties. For many years, PSA has been a reliable partner and companion in important projects, contributing to the completion of the port-logistics ecosystem and digital ecosystem of SNP. We also highly prioritize the development of high-quality human resources. SNP greatly values the relationship with PSA Vietnam and the PSA Group, considering them more than just partners.”
IEC Telecom partners with Rivada Space Networks for land and maritime connectivity
Rivada Space Networks and IEC Telecom have announced the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to enable innovative connectivity solutions for land and maritime communications.
IEC Telecom is an international satellite service operator offering industry-leading satellite communication solutions to governments, public institutions, and enterprises across the world. IEC Telecom specialises in digitalization for the maritime industry as well as providing remote communications on land where GSM coverage is not available and delivering dependable communication for humanitarian operations and special missions. For urban networks, the company provides a powerful satellite back-up to ensure business continuity.
The communications landscape is developing rapidly with providers now able to offer first-generation low earth orbit (LEO) satellite connectivity. But not all LEO networks are created equal and what Rivada is now providing is the first true ‘OuterNET’: a global low latency point-to-point connectivity network of LEO satellites. What sets Rivada apart is this next-generation unique architecture combining inter-satellite laser links with advanced onboard data routers to create an optical mesh network in space.
This approach to ‘orbital networking’, where data stays in space, enables access to an ultra-secure satellite network with pole-to-pole reach, offering end-to-end latencies similar to or better than terrestrial fibre. By routing traffic on a physically separated network, Rivada provides a layer of defence for any organization that needs to securely share data over long distances.
For the humanitarian sector, IEC Telecom will leverage Rivada’s OuterNET to provide leading NGO agencies with enhanced connectivity for the coordination of humanitarian efforts, the safety of remote workers, the security of NGO assets, and the sustainability of long-term operations. From housing and food distribution to education and medicine, all field requirements will be supported to allow humanitarian missions to expand their reach and multiply their scope of services.
In addition to land connectivity services, IEC Telecom will use Rivada’s OuterNET to provide enhanced ICT infrastructure for the maritime environment, further expanding digitalisation at sea. IEC Telecom offers cyber-secure network solutions optimized for the maritime sector. Powered by Rivada’s OuterNET, these technologies will support digital decarbonisation globally by helping vessels improve onboard operations, leading to reduced fuel consumption.
“This partnership supports IEC Telecom’s commitment to pursue innovation for the best customer experience. Rivada’s service will allow us to expand our network’s SLA and offer high-throughput data connectivity ‘fibre-like’ in the sky versus DSL-like today,” said Erwan Emilian, CEO & Partner at IEC Telecom Group.
He added: “We are excited to explore cost-effective packages for the humanitarian sector and test the resilience of maritime connectivity in the open sea. We are confident that Rivada is on its way to becoming a key market player in the satcom world.”
Declan Ganley, Rivada Space Networks CEO, said: “We are delighted to be working with IEC Telecom to support their high throughput voice and data services. We are moving full speed ahead to deploy the first true OuterNET, with its unique data-connectivity capabilities. Both of our companies see the importance of providing ultra-secure, highly reliable low latency communications anywhere on the globe.”
SRI continues to drive MLC learning with the ILO
Last week more than 50 senior legal professionals from 22 countries took the opportunity to increase their understanding of the MLC and the tough challenges faced in implementing its provisions and amendments across local jurisdictions. They came together at the second Symposium on the Maritime Labour Convention, 2006 and Case Law, jointly organised by the International Labour Organization (ILO) and the International Training Centre of the ILO with the assistance of Seafarers’ Rights International (SRI).
Deirdre Fitzpatrick (pictured), Executive Director of SRI, the international pan-industry body researching maritime and seafarers’ law, is a keen supporter of the Symposium: "The MLC is sometimes seen as self-contained with its enforcement provisions aimed at flag State, port States and labour supplying States, as well as provision for seafarer complaints. But the enforcement of seafarers’ rights has a long history that pre-dates the MLC and the creation of the ILO and it is ever important that seafarers have access to courts to enforce their rights should this be necessary.
“This exchange of experiences and mutual learning between lawyers, judges, legal practitioners and academics from different countries is part of the network that is needed to facilitate seafarers’ rights before courts, tribunals or other dispute mechanisms. The work that we are doing at the Symposium will bring a better understanding of the issues preventing full implementation of the MLC and the need for harmonisation of legal decisions around the world.
“An increased familiarisation of the Convention amongst the legal fraternity globally can only strengthen the crucial role of the MLC in a changing world of work”, she said.
Rear-Admiral Jean-Marc Schindler, Chair of the Maritime Labour Convention conferences 2001-2006 and the Joint IMO/ILO ad hoc expert working group on liability and compensation regarding claims for death, personal injury and abandonment of seafarers, and a member of the SRI Advisory Board, addressed the delegates. He said: “The MLC remains a unique example of the review by a United Nations body of nearly 70 of its international instruments. It is an innovative and dynamic instrument and it is a field of progress.
“Lawyers are new actors and the Symposium is an excellent tool for lawyers and others to learn and exchange views on how they can play a role in maintaining the dynamic nature of the Convention”.
During the two-day event participants reviewed recent comparative studies at an international level on the challenges in the maritime industry, discussed how to implement the MLC 2006 effectively, analysed case law relating to seafarers’ rights, and compared trends worldwide.
Strategic partnership for Belships’ fleet and ship management business announced
Belships ASA and V.Group are pleased to announce a strategic partnership related to Belships’ fleet and ship management business.
Lars Christian Skarsgård, CEO of Belships ASA, said: “We are thrilled to join forces with V.Group with the aim to create world-class management of our fleet. Through this partnership, we will benefit from V.’s global reach, accelerated digitalisation and decarbonisation capabilities, and create the flexibility to scale our fleet. Additionally, we will maintain the expertise and dedicated operational personnel that we have built over the years.”
René Kofod-Olsen, Chief Executive Officer of V.Group (pictured), said: “This strategic agreement is another big milestone for V.Group, and we are humbled that Belships – one of the most respected maritime names with over 100 years in shipping – has entrusted us with the management and servicing of their fleet. This agreement is a major step in our strategy of partnering with first-time outsourcers among blue-chip vessel owners. Our goal is to be ‘the committed partner of progress for everything at sea’, and we look forward to partnering with Belships as they continue to grow their business.”
About V.Group: V.Group is a leading global ship management and marine solutions provider serving c. 3,500 vessels across its portfolio, with c. 3,000 colleagues based across 30 countries globally, supporting over 44,000 personnel in marine and offshore roles. For further details, visit www.v.group.
About Belships ASA (OSE: BELCO): Founded in 1918, Belships is a Norwegian shipping company listed on the Oslo Stock Exchange and is a shipowner and operator of dry bulk carriers. Including four newbuildings to be delivered between 2024-2026, the fleet consists of 34 modern Supra/Ultramax bulk carriers. For further details, visit our website www.belships.com.
Cyprus Shipping Chamber welcomes IMO’s ‘ambitious’ new decarbonisation targets
The Cyprus Shipping Chamber (CSC) welcomes the decisions taken last week at the meeting of the 80th Session of the IMO Marine Environment Protection Committee (MEPC80), on the 2023 IMO Strategy on Reduction of Green House Gas (GHG) Emissions from Ships (2023 IMO GHG Strategy), that will see the shipping industry reach a net-zero GHG emissions target by 2050.
CSC says the targets set in the Strategy are ambitious and the real challenge now starts. Developing the measures that will see the shipping industry reach both the set 2030 and 2040 checkpoint targets and the overall 2050 net-zero GHG emissions target, will require hard work and expert input to ensure that, while the measures will achieve the targets, at the same time they will also be pragmatic and implementable to allow the shipping industry to continue to serve the world economy and global progress on the way to achieving the 2050 target.
The CSC says it will now concentrate on providing input on the IMO work to develop the necessary measures.
The Chamber participated at MEPC80, with its Marine Manager, Mr. Alexandros Josephides, as part of the Shipping Deputy Ministry delegation, whom the CSC thanks and congratulates for their cooperation and active participation in the deliberations of MEPC80.
Louis Dreyfus Company chooses ZeroNorth for vessel fleet performance optimisation
Technology company ZeroNorth announces it has been selected by leading global merchant and processor of agricultural goods Louis Dreyfus Company (LDC) to help accelerate the company’s decarbonisation journey by providing data-driven optimisation services to improve vessel performance and reduce fuel consumption across LDC’s chartered fleet of approximately 200 vessels, ranging from handysize to capesize.
The ZeroNorth platform converts data into tangible actions, interconnecting millions of data points into a single source of truth. The platform will provide LDC with data-driven recommendations on optimal routing based on specific voyage, vessel, bunker and emissions optimisation objectives. LDC will also benefit from further insights into its fleet, with a real-time view of the status of all vessels and suggested actions to be taken to improve performance.
Soren Meyer (pictured), CEO, ZeroNorth, said: “We’re proud to be working with a sustainability-driven organisation like LDC and are looking forward to helping them achieve their ambitious decarbonisation goals. In an increasingly complex industry with tightening environmental regulations, it’s important that we all choose pioneering partners that can lead the way and raise the ambition for the entire industry.
“Collaboration is key to driving greener operations across the industry and we look forward to helping LDC gain additional insight into its fleet, improve vessel performance, and ultimately make positive decisions for both profit and planet.”
Sébastien Landerretche, LDC’s Global Head of Freight, added: “As a responsible freight operator, we are committed to operating our vessels in the most fuel-efficient way, to reduce shipping emissions as part of the Group’s overall decarbonisation journey. With a clear vision for their solution and strong subject matter expertise, we see ZeroNorth as a key partner paving the way for further actions, such as investment in Energy Saving Devices and adoption of alternative fuels, which are core to the Group’s strategy to help deliver a more sustainable maritime sector.”
New West Africa Service calling APM Terminals Liberia
APM Terminals has welcomed the first call of Hapag-Lloyd’s new fortnightly West Africa Service (WA1) to Monrovia. The fortnightly service connects Tanger Med, Nouakchott, Freetown, Conakry, Monrovia and back to Tanger Med.
The WA1, which began mid-May, establishes Guinea, Sierra Leone and Liberia as new markets for the shipping line and further boosts import and export economic opportunities in the region.
APM Terminals Monrovia is the only container and general cargo terminal in the West African country. Recent dredging operations widened port channels and saw the removal of around one million cubic meters of sediment. As a result, the terminal’s draft has increased from 9.5 metres to 12.5 metres, allowing larger vessels to enter the Freeport.
Over recent years, a focus on reducing vessel waiting times and port stay reductions has paid off. Currently the terminal averages first lift within around 30 minutes of berthing. And vessel waiting times are now consistently under 24 hours.
Ease of business and continuous improvements in customer experience are additionally enhanced by port automation and digitization. In 2022, APM Terminals Liberia became the first to introduce the company’s global Truck Appointment System, to streamline visits to the terminal.
On the first call to Monrovia, with 28 containers, APM Terminals staff presented the Okee Cuno’s captain and crew with mementos to mark the occasion.
At the presentation, Thomas Moore, APM Terminals Liberia Head of Commercial said: “We are very happy with the preparations, handling and continued support in this first call from Hapag Lloyd. We’ve been proud to provide a smooth introduction into their new market and look forward to increasing volumes.”
APM Terminals has operated at the port of Monrovia since February 2011. Most recently, colleagues celebrated a year without lost time incident (LTI). Safety, as in all APM Terminals locations, is considered first and foremost.
AAL transports critical power station components from Asia to Australia to facilitate USD200 million repair project
AAL Shipping (AAL) recently completed the successful transportation of critical Toshiba-built power station components on a single shipment from China and Japan to Queensland, Australia. The units were carried for global logistics provider DB Schenker and are to be used in the repair of the Callide Power Station as part of a USD200 million project to fix damaged turbines and return one of Queensland’s newest and most vital coal-fired power plants to full capacity, after failures had resulted in mass power outages from the NSW border to the north of Cairns.
AAL was selected for the project due to its long-standing relationship with DB Schenker, history of strong performance on Toshiba cargoes, and the reliability of AAL’s monthly ‘Asia-East Coast Australia Liner Service’ on which this latest cargo was shipped.
Initially consisting of a 270-tonne transformer and 600CBM of accessories, the cargo was loaded onto AAL’s 31,000 deadweight mega-size A-Class heavy lift MPV ‘AAL Singapore’ in the Port of Shanghai and was due to be discharged at the Port of Gladstone in Queensland, with the transformer offloaded to barge and then transported to shore.
“Whilst loading the transformer in China and before her sailing to Gladstone, our client requested if the AAL Singapore could deviate to Yokohama in Japan and load other critical accessories for the same project, which we were happy to do,” said Chris Yabsley, Chartering Manager, AAL Australia. “AAL was then further engaged to harness our vessel’s heavy lift cranes and transfer a large 276-tonne generator stator from wharf laydown to a waiting barge, which we again executed seamlessly.”
“This project illustrates how, with cooperation, flexibility, and trust between carrier and customer, we can deliver significant value beyond the initial project scope. The challenges we faced were the complex heavy lift operations themselves, shore-ship transfers, and making all critical delivery dates to meet barge, tide, and local authority deadlines. Discharge could also only take place during daylight hours as both the transformer and generator stator had to be perfectly positioned by our cranes onto Self Propelled Modular Transporters (SPMT) waiting on the barge.”
He concluded: “All these components were then transported via road to the Callide Power Station in central Queensland for the final 100 kilometres of their journey, having travelled a total distance of nearly 9,000 kilometres. The project was completed on time and without issue, to ensure vital works at the power station can go ahead without delay.”
ABS issues AIP for new ammonia-fuelled container ship
ABS has awarded an approval in principle (AIP) to Korea Maritime Consultants Co., Ltd. (KOMAC) for an innovative design of an ammonia-fuelled container ship.
The 3,600-TEU vessel is a design from KOMAC to address what they forecast as an increase in market need for small-scale, ammonia-fuelled vessels.
Given the challenging characteristics of ammonia, ABS conducted a comprehensive review and participated in the risk assessment of the ammonia fuel system in the AIP process to address safety and reliability.
“Ammonia offers both significant potential to contribute to shipping’s emissions reduction challenge and significant challenge due to its toxic properties,” said Panos Koutsourakis, ABS Vice President, Global Sustainability. “ABS is leading the industry in developing solutions to this safety challenge and supporting first movers like Komac to take advantage of ammonia’s zero-carbon potential.”
Lee Sung-Ryong, Head of KOMAC's think tank, said: “KOMAC offers Korea's best engineering and technology services for shipbuilding. By providing these services to international and domestic small and medium-sized shipyards, we are supporting the revitalization of these important facilities.”
GLO Marine opens new office in Mangalia, Romania to focus on ship repair and conversion
The Romanian engineering and naval architecture company GLO Marine has opened a new office in the Black Sea port of Mangalia this month. Its focus is on site support and project management and its establishment is part of a two-year programme to expand the company’s capabilities in the rapid delivery of end-to-end retrofit and conversion projects to the maritime and oil & gas industries.
Meanwhile, GLO Marine’s Galati office remains the hub of its design & engineering capabilities, while the London office continues to serve the Western client base and lead the company’s growth.
The opening of the office in Mangalia comes in the context of an increase of the company’s client portfolio by 60% in 2022 alone. This has been driven by ongoing partnerships with well-known international ship owners and technical service companies such as Bourbon Offshore (France), Britoil Offshore (Singapore) and VMS Group (Denmark). As a result, GLO Marine is actively expanding its team, recruiting qualified professionals ranging from naval architects and design engineers to project managers, supervisors and surveyors.
With the decarbonisation of the shipping industry gathering pace, the market for services associated with retrofits and conversions is constantly growing. The development and application of new technologies has demanded from the ships in operation segment to develop much more fluid and efficient processes with a focus on identifying risks at each stage of the process, faster response times, and cost control. The timely application of preventive actions has become a priority in the repair sector and ship maintenance programs, and GLO Marine delivers the skills and experience to ensure this happens, by offering an end-to-end solution for such projects, starting with feasibility and ending with on-site support in installation.
“We are very excited by this next stage in our evolution,” says Liviu Galatanu (pictured, second left), General Manager of GLO Marine. “From our roots as a specialist in naval architecture, this expansion of our capabilities confirms GLO Marine as a true full-service retrofit specialist, alongside our already established ship design and consultancy expertise. “
Recent contract wins by GLO Marine include its appointment by Britoil Offshore as the retrofit programme manager for three vessels. GLO Marine’s responsibilities include the design, class approval, installation supervision and stakeholder management (including the system suppliers, shipyard and material suppliers). Its turnkey installation service is ensuring smooth coordination throughout the entire process.
GLO Marine is also working with Bourbon Offshore to deliver end-to-end ballast water treatment system installations, with more than five completed so far.
Reederei Nord and The Swedish Club collaborate to improve onboard safety
The Swedish Club demonstrated the value of more than 150 years of claims experience when invited to participate in Reederei Nord's Senior Officers’ Conference, which took place late last month in Hamburg.
The Club’s Loss Prevention team ran a seminar session presenting two real-life cases on personal injury and collision which highlighted the value of emergency preparedness, crew safety, best practices in navigation, safety management systems, and the prevention of accidents and incidents at sea.
Conference participants (pictured) included Reederei Nord’s Masters, Chief Officers, Chief Engineers and Second Engineers, all of whom actively engaged in discussions and benefited from the insights shared by the Club.
Johan Kahlmeter, Director, Claims at The Swedish Club said: “Loss prevention is a responsibility that all of us in the maritime community share. We value the opportunity to support our members directly in this area, to be proactive and to exchange valuable insights with those tasked with implementing safety standards on board ships. It was good to be invited into Reederei Nord and we thank them for the initiative.”
Mrs Claudia Pengl, Personnel Director at Reederei Nord added: “Our company is committed to a programme of training for all our crews, to enhance safety standards and reduce operational risks. Inviting The Swedish Club team to our training has proven to be highly beneficial, and provided our employees with the external perspective that we could not offer internally.”
The Swedish Club’s Online Training is flexible and effective. The materials can assist members wanting to focus on onboard safety, provide the basis for Officers’ seminars, or can be used when the Club itself is facilitating a training session. They are available online and can be used in both face-to-face training sessions and facilitated remote training.
For more information please email contact: lossprevention@swedishclub.com.
IMO statement on outcome of MEPC 80
Member States of the International Maritime Organization (IMO), meeting at the Marine Environment Protection Committee (MEPC 80), have adopted the 2023 IMO Strategy on Reduction of GHG Emissions from Ships, with enhanced targets to tackle harmful emissions.
The revised IMO GHG Strategy includes an enhanced common ambition to reach net-zero GHG emissions from international shipping close to 2050, a commitment to ensure an uptake of alternative zero and near-zero GHG fuels by 2030, as well as indicative check-points for 2030 and 2040.
IMO Secretary-General Kitack Lim said: "The adoption of the 2023 IMO Greenhouse Gas Strategy is a monumental development for IMO and opens a new chapter towards maritime decarbonisation.
“At the same time, it is not the end goal, it is in many ways a starting point for the work that needs to intensify even more over the years and decades ahead of us. However, with the Revised Strategy that you have now agreed on, we have a clear direction, a common vision, and ambitious targets to guide us to deliver what the world expects from us.
"Above all, it is particularly meaningful, to have unanimous support from all Member States. In this regard, I believe that we have to pay more attention to support developing countries, in particular SIDS (small island developing states) and LDCs (least developed countries), so that no one is left behind," he said.
Outline elements of the Strategy are as follows:
2023 IMO Strategy on Reduction of GHG Emissions from Ships
The 2023 IMO Strategy on Reduction of GHG Emissions from Ships (the 2023 IMO GHG Strategy) represents the continuation of work by IMO as the appropriate international body to address greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions from international shipping.
IMO remains committed to reducing GHG emissions from international shipping and, as a matter of urgency, aims to phase them out as soon as possible, while promoting, in the context of this Strategy, a just and equitable transition.
Levels of ambition directing the 2023 IMO GHG Strategy are as follows:
- carbon intensity of the ship to decline through further improvement of the energy efficiency for new ships to review with the aim of strengthening the energy efficiency design requirements for ships;
- carbon intensity of international shipping to decline to reduce CO2 emissions per transport work, as an average across international shipping, by at least 40% by 2030, compared to 2008;
- uptake of zero or near-zero GHG emission technologies, fuels and/or energy sources to increase uptake of zero or near-zero GHG emission technologies, fuels and/or energy sources to represent at least 5%, striving for 10%, of the energy used by international shipping by 2030; and
- GHG emissions from international shipping to peak as soon as possible and to reach net-zero by or around, i.e. close to 2050, taking into account different national circumstances, whilst pursuing efforts towards phasing them out as called for in the Vision consistent with the long-term temperature goal set out in Article 2 of the Paris Agreement.
Indicative checkpoints on the way to reach net-zero GHG emissions from will be:
- to reduce the total annual GHG emissions from international shipping by at least 20%, striving for 30%, by 2030, compared to 2008; and
- to reduce the total annual GHG emissions from international shipping by at least 70%, striving for 80%, by 2040, compared to 2008.
The 2023 GHG Strategy states that a basket of candidate measure(s), delivering on the reduction targets, should be developed and finalized comprised of both:
- a technical element, namely a goal-based marine fuel standard regulating the phased reduction of the marine fuel's GHG intensity; and
- an economic element, on the basis of a maritime GHG emissions pricing mechanism.
The candidate economic elements will be assessed observing specific criteria to be considered in the comprehensive impact assessment, with a view to facilitating the finalization of the basket of measures.
The mid-term GHG reduction measures should effectively promote the energy transition of shipping and provide the world fleet a needed incentive while contributing to a level playing field and a just and equitable transition.
The Strategy says that the impacts on States of a measure/combination of measures should be assessed and taken into account as appropriate before adoption of the measure in accordance with the Revised procedure for assessing impacts on States of candidate measures. Particular attention should be paid to the needs of developing countries, especially SIDS and LDCs.
In the Strategy, the Committee recognizes that developing countries, in particular LDCs and SIDS, have special needs with regard to capacity-building and technical cooperation.
Call for Expression of Interest to design and promote adoption of electric harbour craft in Singapore
The Maritime and Port Authority of Singapore (MPA) issued an Expression of Interest (EOI) this week to invite interested parties to submit proposals to design and promote adoption of full-electric harbour craft (e-HC) in Singapore.
The Ministry of Transport announced at Committee of Supply debate this year that the harbour craft, pleasure craft and tug boat sectors would be required to achieve net zero emissions by 2050 in line with Singapore’s national net zero ambitions. To support this goal, operators with new harbour craft plans should inform the MPA about their plans from January 2027, so that the designs can be adjusted if required. From 2030, all new harbour craft operating in the Port of Singapore will have to be fully electric, be capable of using B100 biofuel, or be compatible with net zero fuels such as hydrogen.
To promote wider and early adoption of e-HC, MPA intends to support harbour craft companies by providing e-HC engineering reference designs and safety standards to adopt, as well as helping the companies access more attractive financing solutions and lower the cost of production through aggregating overall demand for e-HC in the sector.
The EOI will allow MPA to assess and validate proposals for the best-in-class e-HC reference designs. These would include design standards and guidelines for vessel structure that is optimised for efficiency, integrated battery management and energy storage systems, and the essential safety systems that include emergency back-up, cybersecurity and firefighting capabilities. These reference designs will complement the e-HC engineering knowledge and local capabilities developed by the joint industry-research consortiums supported by MPA and the Singapore Maritime Institute as well as other industry-led collaborations on research and development of e-HC for various use cases.
To facilitate the development of green financing models for the development of the e-HC, the EOI will also invite proposals to demonstrate the commercial viability of various business models based on an aggregated harbour craft fleet to meet the demand at the Port of Singapore. An aggregated fleet aims to improve utilisation rates, encouraging more companies, especially those with smaller fleet size, to electrify their harbour craft, while providing efficient and responsive services to meet the needs of ships calling into Singapore.
There are currently about 1600 harbour craft performing a range of marine services within the Port of Singapore, including the delivery of ship supplies and bunker, as well as towage and launch services. The suitability of electrification as a decarbonisation pathway depends on several factors, including the operating profile and energy requirements of the harbour craft.
For a start, the EOI will focus on the design and support for transition to electrification of the smaller harbour craft. These are generally in the range of 20 – 40 tonnes in gross tonnage, have an overall length of 10 – 20 metres, and a combined shaft power ranging from 200 – 400 kW. There are currently about 400 of these harbour craft deployed in the Port of Singapore.
Mr Teo Eng Dih, Chief Executive of MPA, said: “The harbour craft sector is an integral part of our port ecosystem. The Expression of Interest is a significant first step to encourage and support early adopters of e-harbour craft. With common referenced designs and the aggregation of demand, we hope to reduce the upfront premiums and operating costs for new harbour craft. This will also support the development of green financing options and enhance the skills of our maritime workforce. We look forward to receiving the proposals and working with like-minded partners to grow the green economy and contribute towards Singapore’s decarbonisation goals.”
Port of Tilbury, RWE and Mitsui investigate green hydrogen to decarbonise port operations
The UK’s largest power generator RWE, global trading and investment company Mitsui and the Port of Tilbury are developing an innovative hydrogen project at the Essex port just outside London as part of a recently signed memorandum of understanding (MoU) for two green hydrogen projects.
Through the MoU, the organisations will complete two parallel work streams: a small scale ‘proof of concept’ demonstrator project to produce green hydrogen for decarbonising items of port equipment by switching from fossil fuels to hydrogen, and an initial study into a 10 megawatt green hydrogen plant.
The hydrogen plant will be developed on Port of Tilbury land previously housing a coal-fired power station, transforming an area historically associated with fossil fuel power generation to green hydrogen production, at the heart of the Thames Freeport. The project will also look at options to scale up development over a 10-year period upwards of 100 megawatts. The hydrogen would be used for port infrastructure and operations in addition to providing green hydrogen to the surrounding industry.
Dehenna Davison MP, Minister for Levelling Up, Housing and Communities, commented: “This project is another great example of Freeports driving the UK’s shift to a dynamic, low-carbon economy by developing the industries of the future.
“This will bring great local opportunities by creating exciting new careers for people, demonstrating one of the many reasons why Freeports are at the core of our levelling up agenda.”
Peter Ward, Commercial Director at the Port of Tilbury and Thames Freeport lead, said: “This is an important opportunity to support the Port of Tilbury’s commitment to achieving Net Zero for our customers. Our business has set out our ambition to be carbon neutral by 2032 and Net Zero by 2042 by investing in the infrastructure in the ports. As part of Thames Freeport, our MoU with RWE and Mitsui to develop a new hydrogen plant at the Port of Tilbury will help accelerate the UK’s path to a decarbonised economy and support our vision for low carbon logistics.”
Steve Boughton, RWE Director Hydrogen Development, said: “Hydrogen is a key component of the energy transition and we want to play a leading role in this, aiming to develop 2GW of capacity by 2030. This collaboration with Mitsui and the Port of Tilbury is for an innovative project combing production and industrial customer use with potential fuel switching of port equipment.”
“Hydrogen will play an essential role in the pathway to net zero, particularly in hard to decarbonise industry. We are committed to playing a full part in the delivery of this emerging technology in the UK, and at the same time creating skilled green jobs.”
Shinya Umehara, General Manager Hydrogen Solutions Business Division, Mitsui & Co., Ltd. “Mitsui has set a target of achieving net zero-emissions status by 2050 and aims to halve its greenhouse gas (GHG) impact by 2030, compared with the level for the fiscal year ended March 2020.”
“Hydrogen is one of the areas identified for Mitsui’s key strategic initiatives as stated in the Medium-term Management Plan 2026. Through this project, Mitsui is looking forward to playing an important role in the realisation of the UK’s hydrogen strategy in collaboration with the Port of Tilbury and RWE.”
Baltic Exchange co-hosts 8th Global Shipbrokers Forum
The Baltic Exchange reports that co-hosted the 8th Global Shipbrokers Forum in Piraeus, Greece in late June with the Hellenic Shipbrokers Association (HSA) in an event that discussed a number of topics affecting the global maritime industry including environmental regulations and the impact of global sanctions.
Ship owners, managers, charterers, shippers, agents, insurers, brokers, shipbuilders, port officials, bunker suppliers, service and equipment providers, and sales brokers met for the two-day event to exchange views, strengthen existing collaborations and expand into new professional horizons.
The forum opened with a welcome speech by John Cotzias, President of HSA, and the opening panel featured a number of prolific speakers, including Baltic Exchange CEO Mark Jackson; Charalambos Fafalios, Chairman of the Greek Shipping Co-operation Committee; Angelos Pantouvakis, Dean of the School of Maritime and Industry Director at the University of Piraeus; and George Pateras, President of the Hellenic Chamber of Shipping.
Environmental regulations topped the agenda at the event, which was held under the tagline 'Constant Challenges and Adaptive Industry'. With the International Maritime Organization recently revising its long-term greenhouse gas emission strategy, panelists discussed the pace, adequacy and expediency of such environmental targets.
Speaking on the subject of greener fuels, such as ammonia and methanol, Mark Jackson pushed back against any scepticism about their use.
"There has to be aspiration. There has to be those idiots that go out and be the first movers and spend all this money for anything to change," he told the forum.
Following the two-day event, which also focused on dry bulk and tanker shipping, a fantastic gala dinner was held at the Peace & Friendship Stadium in Piraeus, which featured industry speakers and live music.
Ocean Network Express launches LUX service, connecting Europe and South America
Ocean Network Express (ONE) is introducing the Latin-East-Coast Europe Express (LUX), a new weekly service connecting Europe and the Mediterranean to the East Coast of South America, providing ONE’s valued customers with greater coverage, connectivity, and flexibility.
The LUX represents ONE’s first dedicated service connecting Europe and the Mediterranean to the East Coast of South America. The service is designed to provide a competitive northbound transit time from the East Coast of South America to the Mediterranean and Europe, offering customers a competitive alternative to the existing products on the market, especially for refrigerated cargo. It is also the only service on the market making a direct call from Lisbon to the East Coast of South America, providing customers with the opportunity to ship from these unique port pairs.
“South America has always been of strategic importance to our global network,” said Yu Kurimoto, Managing Director of ONE. “The launch of the LUX service demonstrates ONE’s commitment to providing our customers with excellent, reliable, efficient, and comprehensive services. We are constantly looking for ways to enhance our products and offerings, and the LUX service represents a significant step forward in meeting the needs of our customers in this important region.”
The inaugural sailing for LUX will commence from Montevideo on 16th September with the following rotation:
Rotterdam – London Gateway – Hamburg – Antwerp – Lisbon – Algeciras – Santos – Paranagua – Montevideo – Buenos Aires – Itapoa – Paranagua – Santos – Rio De Janeiro – Algeciras – Rotterdam
Emissions fall on key ocean freight lanes in 2023: Xeneta
The latest industry analysis from Xeneta shows that CO2 emissions from the container industry fell during the first quarter of 2023 across 10 of the world’s busiest 13 ocean freight lanes. According to the Carbon Emissions Index (CEI), a unique environmental benchmarking tool from Xeneta and Marine Benchmark, the trade corridor making the biggest emissions inroads was the US West Coast to the Far East lane, while Yang Ming emerged as the industry’s ‘emissions hero’ for the second consecutive quarter.
The CEI is built on a foundation of real-time AIS data and individual vessel specifications, allowing it to track and calculate environmental performance per ton of cargo carried across the sector’s busiest trade routes*. It uses a baseline score of 100 to assess carriers in relation to the trade lane average at the start of 2018.
Those scores, comments Emily Stausbøll (pictured), Xeneta Shipping Analyst, showed quarterly improvements on many trades for the start of 2023. However, Stausbøll cautions over whether this trend is “here to stay”, noting that it’s perhaps not just environmental commitment that is lowering the CEI scores.
“Global shippers looking to shrink the carbon footprints of their logistics chains will be delighted to see some meaningful falls in emissions on key freight corridors,” she comments. “And, in the aftermath of MEPC 80 and the IMO’s accelerated GHG commitments, such improvements should certainly be applauded. But the question is, what happens when the market improves? Will we see commercial considerations trump environmental ones? Time will tell how committed individual carriers are here.”
Stausbøll says that much of the improvements are down to carriers reducing speeds, which delivers fuel efficiency gains while also allowing them to cater for considerably lower demand in a subdued macroeconomic climate. The US West Coast to the Far East lane (a backhaul) saw a speed reduction of almost 1 knot, which, when combined with an increase in vessel sizes and a stable filling factor, enabled a 11.3% CEI improvement from Q4 2022.
She adds: “We’re also seeing several alliances add capacity to services, for example when newbuilds are coming on line, and then slow down the speeds of deployed ships. This allows them to add the vessels without increasing capacity in real-terms (due to the slower transit times). This strategy, it’s fair to say, is driven by business rather than environmental considerations.”
Xeneta’s data shows that only three trades increased speeds across the quarter, and that all were fronthaul routes, namely; from the Far East to North Europe and to the US East Coast, and from North Europe to the US East Coast. Of the 13 leading corridors the only ones to show an increase in quarterly CEI scores, and therefore emissions, were North Europe to the Far East and to the US East Coast, and from the Mediterranean to the US East Coast.
Despite the favorable current trend, there’s a mixed long-term perspective, with four trades actually recording worse CEI scores in Q1 2023 than in Q1 2018. The Mediterranean to US East Coast trade is “bottom of the barrel” with a 13.6% higher CEI. At the other end of the scale, the “star performer” is the Far East to the US East Coast corridor, with a 21.2% improvement for the same period.
“In general, we are seeing some positive steps forward,” Stausbøll states,” with many carriers getting just the right balance of vessel speed, size and filling factor. In particular, there’s good news for the many exporters out of the Far East, with the top five trades from the region all showing significant improvements over Q1 2018. None of these trades had a CEI above 91 - in other words, an improvement of at least 9% since the index was introduced.”
The best individual carrier, Stausbøll concludes, is Yang Ming, which also recorded the best CEIs in Q4 2022. The Taiwanese giant was the cleanest carrier (when measured by CO2 emitted per ton of cargo carried) on three trades, with OOCL and HMM securing the top spot on two trades a piece.
She notes: “Yang Ming was the only major carrier to score below the trade lane average on all the trades where it deployed ships. It also sailed younger ships than the trade lane averages and, importantly, sailed slower.
“With the environment so high on the agenda – for customers and financers, as well as regulators – the commercial argument for this kind of commitment is almost as strong as the environmental one. If more carriers can follow Yang Ming’s lead, then it’s a strategy that could really pay dividends, in more ways than one.”
Separately, it can be noted that fellow Taiwanese carrier Evergreen has just confirmed it is ordering 24 methanol-fuelled containerships worth some $5 billion from yards in Japan and South Korea, demonstrating its commitment to continue lowering emissions.
WISTA International granted Observer status by UNCTAD
WISTA International, the global organization dedicated to promoting women and diversity in the maritime and trading industries, proudly announces its recent approval as an Observer by the United Nations Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD).
The decision was made at UNCTAD's last meeting held in Geneva from 19 to 28 June 2023. WISTA (Women's International Shipping & Trading Association) International received formal notification of its Observer status on 6 July 2023, affirming its special category designation under paragraph 12 (b) provisions.
Under this exceptional recognition, WISTA International is authorized to appoint representatives to actively participate in the public intergovernmental meetings organized by UNCTAD. This remarkable milestone strengthens the organization's commitment to fostering collaboration with UNCTAD and other leading institutions, creating opportunities for both parties to address matters of mutual interest.
"The approval of WISTA International as an Observer by UNCTAD is a momentous achievement for our organization. It underscores our dedication to advancing gender equality and empowering women within the maritime and trading industries," said Elpi Patreki (pictured), President of WISTA International. "We are excited to join forces with UNCTAD in shaping the future of sustainable trade and development. This cooperation will allow us to share our considerable expertise and create more inclusive and diverse maritime and trading sectors."
The approval of WISTA International as an Observer by UNCTAD is a testament to the organization's unwavering dedication to promoting gender equality and empowering women within the maritime and trading sectors. WISTA International's extensive network and expertise in the industry make it an invaluable asset in contributing to UNCTAD's efforts in fostering inclusive and sustainable trade and development.
Svitzer awarded Alexandroupolis LNG terminal contract with Gastrade
Global towage operator Svitzer has signed a 15-year agreement to service Gastrade’s Alexandroupolis Independent Natural Gas System (Alexandroupolis INGS) LNG terminal, the first offshore LNG project in Greece.
Svitzer will apply its expertise and experience to rapidly set up towage services and support for advanced LNG operations at the new import terminal. This includes supporting a Floating Storage Regasification Unit (FSRU) with a pipeline system connecting the floating unit to the Greek National Natural Gas Transmission System and onwards to final consumers in Greece and the Balkans.
Four new ASD tugboats, fully manned by Greek crew, will be used to assist the FSRU and the carriers delivering LNG. Svitzer tugboats will provide berthing, un-berthing, navigation assistance, and other terminal services including firefighting, pollution control, pilot and boarding party transfer. Svitzer will also provide support and station keeping services to the FSRU during initial installation.
The project marks Svitzer’s first entry into the Greek market and will see the company apply its knowledge and skills in the local environment. The deal will result in the creation of both onshore and offshore job opportunities based at the terminal in Alexandroupolis.
While the Alexandroupolis LNG terminal is set to become operational in the beginning of 2024, Svitzer has already initiated the recruitment process to ensure staff undergo robust training in line with Svitzer’s operational and safety standards ahead of operations commencing. Training will include the use of advanced tug simulators replicating the actual environment around the Alexandroupolis LNG terminal.
Svitzer has more than 25 years of experience as a leading towage provider for customers in the global LNG market, with the Alexandroupolis INGS project further demonstrating Svitzer’s stronghold as expert service provider to the energy industry.
Commenting on the agreement, Lise Demant, Managing Director, Svitzer Europe, said: “We are delighted that Gastrade has chosen us as its trusted partner to deliver towage services for the Alexandroupolis INGS LNG terminal. The long-term agreement will allow Svitzer to grow within its core business, expand geographically and deliver safe and efficient marine services to a new customer. This includes providing a truly customised solution for Gastrade, with the delivery of four brand new tugs. We look forward to being part of the first offshore LNG project in Greece and to welcome new Greek colleagues to Svitzer, who will help deliver reliable and high-quality towage service to Gastrade and its customers.”
Konstantinos Sifnaios, Managing Director at Gastrade, added: “High-quality towage and marine services will be critical to the success of the Alexandroupolis LNG Terminal project. We are convinced that Svitzer is the right partner to deliver this, thanks to its extensive track record in terminal towage, its agile fleet management, and solid experience from servicing many other LNG customers globally. We look forward to working together with Svitzer to build jobs in the local market and ensure energy security for the region and beyond.”
ONE Innovation puts on a show in Port of Rotterdam
This week ONE Innovation, one of the three largest containerships in the world, arrived at the RWG (Rotterdam World Gateway) terminal in the port of Rotterdam.
Japanese shipping company ONE (Ocean Network Express), keen to highlight the ship's sustainable features, had the ship stowed on the outside with magenta ONE containers for the occasion. The ship is 400 metres long, 61 metres wide and can accommodate 24,136 TEU.
ONE Innovation is believed to be currently the world’s third largest capacity containership behind the MSC Loreto (24,346 TEU) and OOCL Spain (24,188 TEU), ahead of the MSC Tessa (24,116 TEU) in fourth place.
The ONE containership will remain in the port until Friday, Port of Rotterdam Authority organising boat trips to allow the public to view the vessel at close quarters.
OSM Thome launches its new Vision, Mission and Values
OSM Thome announces it has formulated a new shared ‘Vision, Mission and Values’ following the successful merger of the two companies OSM Maritime and Thome Group in May 2023.
The company says that it ensured that all management, office employees and seafarers were able to play a role in shaping the new common direction that “aligns with our collective aspirations and reflects our commitment to excellence”. i
The OSM Thome Vision is one of “Leading Excellence at Sea”; its Mission to be “a Maritime Powerhouse trusted by Customers, respected by Community, and a home for our People”; and its four core Values being those of “Safety”, “Transparency”, “Relationships” and “Innovation”.
“At OSM Thome, we believe that our new Vision, Mission, and Values will serve as our guiding principles as we navigate industry challenges and seize opportunities,” the company concludes. “We are dedicated to delivering exceptional value to our clients, leveraging our strengthened foundation built on shared purpose and collaboration.”
Drewry World Container Index shows rates down 80% on a year ago
The latest Drewry WCI composite index of $1,488.13 per 40-foot container is now 86% below the peak of $10,377 reached in September 2021 and 79% off the level of one year ago. It is 45% lower than the 10-year average of $2,686, indicating a return to more normal prices, but remains 5% higher than average 2019 (pre-pandemic) rates of $1,420.
The average composite index for the year-to-date is $1,786 per 40ft container, which is $901 lower than the 10-year average ($2,686 mentioned above).
The composite index increased marginally by 0.9% over the last week to $1,488.13 per 40ft container and is 78.7% lower than the same week in 2022. Freight rates on Rotterdam – New York dived 12% or $234 to reach $1,769 per feu. Likewise, rates on Shanghai – Rotterdam dropped 4% or $54 to $1,291 per 40ft box. Also, spot rates from Shanghai – Genoa and Los Angeles – Shanghai decreased 3% to $1,932 and $846 per 40ft container respectively. Rates on Rotterdam – Shanghai declined slightly by 1% or $7 and stood at $537 per feu.
Conversely, rates from Shanghai – Los Angeles rose by 9% or $152 to $1,790 per 40ft container. Freight rates on Shanghai – New York strengthened 5% or $125 to $2,715 per 40ft container.
Drewry expects East-West spot rates to decline marginally on most routes in the next few weeks.
Women in Transport Equity Index survey launched at AGM of UK body
The transport sector is about to embark on a transformative journey towards diversity and equity with the official launch of the Women in Transport Equity Index survey. This ground-breaking initiative, introduced at the Women in Transport Annual General Meeting on 26 June 2023, aims to revolutionise the industry by providing crucial baseline data, recognising best practices and driving positive change.
The Women in Transport Equity Index survey will be live and open for registration from 3 July 2023. This momentous occasion marks a significant milestone in the ongoing efforts to promote diversity and inclusivity within the transport sector. The Index seeks to identify and address the real gender diversity in transport-related positions, fostering an environment where all individuals have equal access to opportunities and resources.
"We are thrilled to announce the official launch of the Women in Transport Equity Index survey," said Sonya Byers (pictured, left), CEO of Women in Transport. She added, "This initiative represents a paradigm shift in the industry, providing a comprehensive framework to measure and drive progress towards greater diversity and equity. We invite all UK transport sector companies to register and participate in this transformative journey."
Chair of the All-Party Parliamentary Group for Women in Transport, Ruth Cadbury MP, highlighted, "This is a significant point in the quest for a more diverse and equitable transport workforce. The APPG for Women in Transport is proud to support Women in Transport's Equity Index Initiative. By fostering inclusivity and highlighting best practices, we hope to inspire other sectors to follow our lead, creating a ripple effect of positive change across industries."
The Women in Transport Equity Index survey consists of 10 mandatory and 10 optional questions, carefully designed to ensure efficiency while capturing essential data. Optional questions include intersectional aspects, further enhancing the understanding of workforce dynamics within the sector. Participants who complete the index questions will gain free access to a light version of the information hub, which offers invaluable resources and templates for fostering diversity and inclusion within their organisations.
Upon completing the full survey, participants will receive an overall score across the ten equity standards, individual scores and a comprehensive 25-page report featuring benchmarking data. Top-performing companies will be featured in the comprehensive report (with their permission), with the top five companies in each sector index (at their discretion) receiving a prestigious certificate of success recognition and a marketing badge dated to signify their commitment to diversity and equity.
"The Merchant Navy Welfare Board is proud to sponsor the Women in Transport Equity Index,” stated Stuart Rivers, Chief Executive of MNWB, which is the umbrella charity for the UK Merchant Navy and Fishing Fleets. We believe in fostering a maritime industry that reflects the true diversity of our society, and this initiative aligns perfectly with our strategic aims. Together, we can create a more inclusive and equitable future for the maritime sector,"
"We firmly believe that diversity and equity are not just initiatives; they are the driving forces behind a prosperous and inclusive industry," emphasised Sue Terpilowski (pictured, right), Women in Transport lead for the Index. "The Women in Transport Equity Index survey represents ground-breaking work in diversity, equity and inclusion. We invite all companies to join us in this momentous endeavour and together, we can set a worldwide precedent for equality in the transport sector."
Link to register for the Equity Index 2023 https://bit.ly/3XspsQY
WFW hires new Counsel for London maritime offering
Watson Farley & Williams (WFW) is pleased to announce that maritime expert Amelia Reffold has joined the firm as Counsel in the London office. She was previously a Senior Lawyer at Schjødt LLP.
Amelia (pictured) has expertise in both maritime and asset and structured finance law as well as in the energy and offshore sectors. She advises on a wide variety of commercial transactions involving vessel construction, operation and financing matters (including in relation to FPSOs, FSRUs and other offshore units), the drafting and negotiation of offshore construction, engineering and installation agreements, bareboat charters and ship management agreements, and cross-border restructurings.
London Maritime Partner Joe McGladdery commented: “I am delighted to welcome Amelia to the team. Her expertise and wonderful skillset will be of great value and will significantly enhance our maritime and asset finance offering – in particular in the offshore and LNG sectors.”
Amelia added: “I am excited to be joining WFW and look forward to growing my practice and working alongside some of the industry’s leading maritime lawyers.”
Signal Maritime increases pool flexibility with Position Value concept
Tanker pool manager Signal Maritime has introduced a new monthly ‘Position Value’ concept to enable tanker owners to capitalize directly from the geographic position of their vessels on entering or exiting its pools. The Position Value determines the potential earnings of a vessel based on its geographic position considering market conditions, historical data, and every trading option.
“At any given moment a vessel’s opening position holds an earning potential,” explains Signal Maritime Services CEO Panos Dimitracopoulos. “We’ve developed a price tag for all geographic trading areas which allows us to price spot and time charters in a way which factors the vessel’s earning potential on pool entry or exit.”
He added: “In a highly volatile market owners have many options and it’s important that our flexible pool model gives our partners the opportunity to time their moves as profitably as possible without harming the other pool partners or themselves. Ultimately Position Value is a zero-sum game which supports the sophisticated triangulation and trading strategies needed to run a successful tanker operation.”
The model analyses the historical voyages of a given vessel class to understand the market structure, including flows and their frequency. It utilises data for port and canal expenses, current market rates, average fuel consumption and bunker prices to calculate the Time Charter Equivalent (TCE) for each potential voyage.
Next, the model identifies the most profitable sequence of voyages for any location worldwide, given the current market conditions and most common flows. This analysis derives the Position Value of each area, representing its earnings potential.
The algorithm-derived values are checked by the Signal Maritime team, shared with partners and then applied. Signal Maritime also offers its partners a free seat at its London, Singapore or Athens based chartering desks to allow them to gain a full understanding of the way in which values are derived and used.
Signal Maritime runs MR and Aframax tanker pools and also provides a digital commercial shipping services programme. This service allows other third parties to build and run their own pools using Signal technology and commercial support.
Transworld Group and Fleet Management announce new ship management joint venture
Transworld Group and Fleet Management (FLEET) have established a new ship management joint venture, Transworld Fleet Management.
This will provide dedicated technical management services to Transworld Group’s diversified fleet which includes container vessels, bulk carriers, and tankers, besides Transworld associated and affiliated vessels. The new venture would thus also support and provide value-added ship management services to many other shipowners in the region.
Transworld Group Chairman Ramesh S. Ramakrishnan (pictured, seated left) said the joint venture would enable the company to focus on the ship ownership aspect of their business, while utilising FLEET’s technical ship management expertise on a broader scale.
“FLEET has managed a number of our vessels over the past year, and this joint venture is a natural progression in our working relationship as we continue to add to our ship ownership portfolio, particularly in tankers,” Mr. Ramakrishnan said.
“We are anticipating significant support from FLEET’s technical, operational and quality, health, safety and environment teams to ensure efficient management, including ongoing adherence to regulatory requirements and the utilisation of a broad range of digital capabilities,” he added.
Harry Banga (pictured, seating right), Chairman and CEO of FLEET’s parent company, The Caravel Group, said he was confident in the success of the joint venture partnership due to aligned corporate values and backgrounds as family-run businesses.
“We share a similar philosophy in striving to manage our businesses in ways that create positve change – meaningfully contributing to the opportunities ahead for us all,” Dr. Banga said.
“Our FLEET team is committed to supporting Transworld Group as they ramp up their ship ownership and continue to expand in this space.”
The joint venture structure will involve Transworld Group and FLEET employees working closely together in India, Hong Kong SAR, Dubai and Singapore.
World Fuel Services completes first LNG bunkering in China for Hapag-Lloyd
World Fuel Services has completed a milestone LNG bunkering operation for the refuelling of a carrier at a Chinese port, with the new Hapag-Lloyd ship Berlin Express becoming only the second carrier to be refuelled with bonded LNG in the port.
With the support of both the Ningbo-Zhoushan Port authority and local supplier CNOOC, the dual-fuel Berlin Express took delivery of 6,000 cubic metres of bonded LNG fuel in an operation that lasted around 20 hours. The Berlin Express is a 24,000 TEU ultra-large container ship on its maiden voyage, having been launched in June.
"The refuelling of our new Berlin Express demonstrates great collaboration and innovation to achieve efficient LNG bunkering at a major international port,” said Jan Christensen Head of Global Fuel Purchasing at Hapag-Lloyd. “It’s a first of many steps forward in our journey to a low-carbon future and illustrates what can be achieved when suppliers and port authorities coordinate operations and work together towards a greener global shipping industry."
"World Fuel is dedicated to accelerating the energy transition into lower carbon fuels in the marine industry by connecting customers with the right suppliers and ports,” said Mark Tamsitt, Senior Vice President Marine, EMEA & Asia at World Fuel Services. “The successful LNG fuelling of Hapag Lloyd's Berlin Express exemplifies the power of collaboration, with support from the Ningbo-Zhoushan Port Authority and local supplier CNOOC.
"By working together, we can support the movement towards a more sustainable future in the marine sector, reducing emissions and fostering a cleaner, greener industry. World Fuel remains committed to driving innovation, cultivating collaboration, and bringing to market fuels that align with our customer's emission goals as we lead the way towards a more sustainable marine industry."
New £100M finance boost for Port of Tyne’s clean energy focus
The Port of Tyne – which owns and operates one of the UK’s major trust ports – has secured a £100 million refinancing package with the UK Infrastructure Bank, Pricoa Private Capital and Lloyds Bank.
This 10-year financing arrangement is a national first for a British major trust port and builds upon the Port of Tyne’s strategic focus on green energy and smart logistics. The deal demonstrates the underlying confidence investors have in the Port’s business strategy and market-leading position in established and emerging markets including offshore renewables and the automotive transition.
The Port’s new facilities include a £50 million capital fund provided by the Government-owned UK Infrastructure Bank, £45 million of long-dated loan notes from Pricoa Private Capital, with Lloyds Bank continuing to support as an agent and providing a £5 million revolving credit facility. This facility was completed with professional support from Deloitte LLP’s Infrastructure Team, Ashurst LLP and Pinsent Mason LLP.
This long-term credit facility will provide the Port of Tyne with a capital structure to continue to deliver its ambitious Tyne 2050 strategy while providing support to develop major infrastructure projects to capitalise on new market opportunities. The new structure will ensure the Port of Tyne – and the North East region – continues to support the green energy markets of the future and long-term national energy security.
The Port of Tyne, which already contributes £700 million to the North East and UK economy, is home to the O&M base to service Dogger Bank – the world’s largest windfarm – is the second largest car exporting port in the country and supports a growing clean energy cluster. The Port also handles a diverse range of cargoes including containers, manufactured and retail goods, alongside renewables and passenger activities.
As a key supporter of the Government’s Maritime 2050 strategy, the business is set to play an important role in the UK’s long-term future as a maritime nation. The Port is home to the country’s first Maritime Innovation Hub and has recently been awarded funding to develop the Clean Tyne Shipping Corridor – a proposed decarbonised European maritime route. As part of its strategy, the Port is committed to reducing net greenhouse gas emissions to zero by 2030, electrifying its operations by 2040 and becoming a smart port.
Lord Johnson, Minister for Investment, commented: “Regenerating the Port of Tyne will not only help the UK cement its role as a global leader in clean energy technology, but will be essential for levelling up the North East with high skilled, green jobs and local economic growth.”
"The UK Infrastructure Bank has become an integral part of this country’s net zero ambitions, delivering new and innovative ways to achieve sustainable growth.”
Mark Stoner, Chief Financial Officer at Port of Tyne, said: “This ground-breaking capital facility will help the Port of Tyne accelerate its intentional ambitions plans to support the rapidly expanding and critical green energy and automotive transition markets, attracting international and home-based investment, area regeneration, highly skilled jobs and the associated economic prosperity to the North East region and to the UK more widely.”
Virtual Open Days with MLA College
Later this month MLA College, part of University of Plymouth in the UK, is hosting its first ever virtual open days in a week-long series of events, giving prospective students a unique opportunity to explore the world of part-time distance learning.
MLA College is hosting four events, each covering a different theme. The schedule for the open days is as follows:
– Engineering (Postgraduate) on Monday 24th July 2023 at 10am BST
– Marine and Maritime on Tuesday 25th July 2023 at 10am BST
– Sustainability on Wednesday 26th July 2023 at 2.30pm BST
– Master of Business Administration (by Research Project) on Thursday 27th July 2023 at 10am BST
Each open day will follow a structured format to ensure attendees receive a comprehensive overview of what MLA College has to offer. Starting with an introduction to distance learning, participants will then delve into the specifics of the chosen theme, exploring the degree options available and gaining insight into the application process.
The sessions will also cover student finance and highlight the extensive support services available to students throughout their academic journey.
Visit www.mla.ac.uk to register for the Virtual Open Day sessions or for more information about eligibility and tuition fees
New Unified Container Inspection & Repair Criteria address contaminating pests
To help ensure the integrity and cleanliness of the international supply chain, the revised Unified Container Inspection & Repair Criteria (UCIRC) published by the ICS, BIC and WSC now includes inspection criteria for container depots and other container handover facilities to address pest contamination on and in containers.
The first edition of the Unified Container Inspection & Repair Criteria (UCIRC), designed for use at all container depots and container interchanges, was developed and published by ICS in 2000. The publication details the criteria to be considered in the context of inspection for physical damage or structural deformations of the sea container. Since then, the industry has developed and, maybe most importantly, contaminating pests hitchhiking in or on containers has increasingly become an issue of concern.
However, the previous editions of UCRIC did not address inspection for visible pest contamination on the container, resulting in the possibility that containers might be dispatched empty from container depots with hitchhiker pests.
To address this issue, the International Chamber of Shipping (ICS), Bureau International des Containers (BIC) and World Shipping Council (WSC) teamed up to ensure the UCIRC was adjusted to meet today’s requirements. The revised UCIRC has been updated to make inspection for and removal of visible pest contamination an integral part of the container inspection and dispatch process. The document outlines special provisions to inspect for pest contamination at container depots as well as at all other interchange points.
Just as any major structural deficiencies must be repaired, any pest contaminants must be taken care of prior to the dispatch of the empty container to the shipper. The revised UCIRC make this clear and also expressly reference the recently updated Prevention of Pest Contamination of Containers: Joint Industry Guidelines for Cleaning of Containers by BIC, COA, IICL and WSC. The two publications in tandem demonstrate the commitment of the container shipping industry to play a proactive role in minimizing pest contamination via the sea container pathway.
UK Hydrographic Office appoints new National Hydrographer and Chief Customer Officer
The UK Hydrographic Office (UKHO) has announced the appointment of Rear Admiral Angus Essenhigh OBE as the United Kingdom’s new National Hydrographer.
Rear Adm. Essenhigh (pictured, left) will be taking on the role of Director, Defence and Data Acquisition at the UKHO, leading the work that the UKHO undertakes within the international hydrographic community and supporting the organisation’s efforts to fulfil its public task and ensure Safety of Life at Sea. He replaces outgoing National Hydrographer Rear Adm. Rhett Hatcher, who is retiring after two years in post.
The UKHO has also appointed Vanessa Blake (pictured, right) as Chief Customer Officer. Vanessa is a multi-award-winning customer experience (CX) expert with 25+ years’ experience in creating and implementing successful transformation and CX strategies for customer-centric operations.
Vanessa specialises in growth strategy, change and digital transformation, including strategic thought leadership for end-to-end customer journey transformation, and applying artificial intelligence and machine learning to enhance customer environments.
After joining the Royal Navy as a university cadet in 1992, Rear Adm. Essenhigh sailed the world on minesweepers, frigates and an American Destroyer. He returned to the UK in 2002 to command two P2000 patrol boats. Since then, Rear Adm. Essenhigh has been Commanding Officer of HMS Daring, during which he received the OBE for assisting people in the Philippines affected by Typhoon Haiyan, and captained several vessels including HMS Protector and the Royal Navy’s Fleet Flagship, HMS Queen Elizabeth.
More recently, Rear Adm. Essenhigh held key roles at the Ministry of Defence, working in International Policy and Plans for the Asia Pacific region. He was also Deputy Principal Staff Officer to the Chief of the Defence Staff. His last role before joining the UKHO was as Commander in the UK Carrier Strike Group, where he operated in the North Atlantic, supporting NATO and the Joint Expeditionary Force.
Speaking about his appointment, Rear Admiral Angus Essenhigh OBE, UK National Hydrographer, UKHO, said: “I’m very much looking forward to my next venture at the UK Hydrographic Office, working with colleagues in support of defence and the furtherance of Safety of Life at Sea. With more than 30 years as a user of hydrographic products at sea, I am passionate about the exciting challenges of this new role and the opportunity to support our users in both the defence community and the commercial shipping fleet with the latest data-driven navigation solutions.”
Vanessa Blake, Chief Customer Officer, UKHO, is equally enthused about her new role. She said: “I’m incredibly excited to join an organisation with such a rich history in navigation and seafarer safety. The UKHO has a remarkable reputation for unrivalled expertise in hydrography and marine geospatial data and I am excited to work alongside their talented team to further elevate the customer experience and ensure that our solutions meet the evolving needs of our customers worldwide.”
Commenting on the appointments, Peter Sparkes, Chief Executive of the UKHO, said: “We’re delighted to welcome Rear Admiral Angus Essenhigh to the UKHO as National Hydrographer and Director, Defence and Data Acquisition, where he will work with the international hydrographic community, while ensuring that we continue to support national security and seafarer safety. Angus’ remit will be to build on the important work of his predecessor, Rhett Hatcher, who has done an exemplary job since assuming the National Hydrographer role in September 2021 – we wish him well for the future.
“Appointing Vanessa Blake as our new Chief Customer Officer is also an important step for the UKHO, as we continue to shift towards our digital future, and we’re thrilled to have her onboard. Vanessa’s strategic background in customer experience and business development will enhance our support to existing and new clients that rely on our ADMIRALTY charts and services to safely navigate the world’s oceans.”
Renewable production needed to make methanol a viable alternative maritime fuel: LR
A new report from Lloyd’s Register (LR) has identified that the main challenges for the industry’s adoption of methanol are investment and community readiness, with the fuel’s technology feasibility continuing to grow.
‘Fuel for Thought: Methanol’ found that technology for methanol usage as a marine fuel is feasible, available and mature in certain cases. Most engine makers will have dual fuel engine models in the near term and there is significant evidence of interest from shipowners. By 2030 it is estimated that methanol could account for 20% of the vessel orderbook.
Whilst community readiness is lower than technology readiness for methanol, the study shows that this is growing, with the industry drawing on the experience of transporting methanol as a cargo and its use as a fuel over the last decade. Safe bunkering guidance has been written and has laid the groundwork for future international safety requirements and class regulations are in place for newbuilding and retrofit designs to ensure existing safety requirements are met by methanol-powered vessels.
The report, however, has identified that the biggest obstacles for the further development of methanol as a fuel relate to its pricing, availability and carbon accounting.
Due to the low production of green methanol and the current orderbook, availability could be a major issue for shipping with low supply driving up prices. Lack of methanol availability could also lead to questions as to whether methanol produced will be certified as green, which ensures that the greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions are accounted for as part of a full lifecycle assessment. Currently, most of the methanol produced at scale is sourced from natural gas and is not renewable.
The study also identifies why the energy density of methanol in comparison to current diesel and fuel oils could also present a stumbling block for its widespread use as a marine fuel. Vessels will require up to two and half times the amount of methanol than fuel oil for a specific consumption.
Douglas Raitt, Lloyd’s Register’s Regional Advisory Services Manager for Asia said: “Methanol’s time to shine as an alternative fuel candidate for the maritime energy transition is long overdue. Whilst there is no single fuel which will provide a ‘silver bullet’ for decarbonisation, methanol has the potential to play a key role in a multi-fuel future as part of the maritime industry’s ambition to decarbonise.
“The report shows how crucial the commercial scale up of green and blue methanol production is if the fuel is to be widely adopted by the maritime industry. We are, however, seeing positive signs with continued growth in technology and community readiness for methanol.”
The report is the first instalment in LR’s ‘Fuel for Thought’ series which will feature reports on ammonia, biofuels, carbon capture technologies, nuclear power, hydrogen, battery and electric power and the transition of LNG. The series will analyse the safety, production, economic drivers, and technology of each energy source.
LR continues to build on its expertise with several projects looking at methanol as an alternative fuel. In 2020 LR released the first guidance on methanol bunkering in partnership with the Methanol Institute and back in 2015 the world’s first-ever methanol-powered sea vessel, the Stena Germanica, was classed by LR.
Download the report here.
WinGD on track to deliver ammonia engines in 2025
Swiss marine power company WinGD is on track to deliver its first X-DF-A dual-fuel ammonia engines by the first quarter of 2025, with the first X-DF-A powered vessels in service from 2026. The confirmation, which follows combustion tests at WinGD research facilities in December 2022, is backed by concrete orders and recent rapid progress in developing an engine concept capable of using the zero-carbon fuel efficiently, safely and reliably.
WinGD has disclosed ammonia fuel technology developments involving two shipowners. Last month it signed an agreement with AET Tankers and sister company Akademi Laut Malaysia to develop crew training on ammonia engines. In January 2023 it announced a partnership with CMB.Tech, a sister company of Belgian shipowner CMB, to develop ammonia-fuelled engines for ten 210,000 DWT bulk carriers.
The developments are supported by strong collaborations with engine and ship builders in China, Japan and Korea, as well as by WinGD’s own extensive investment in research. Most recently, in June WinGD signed a memorandum of understanding with Mitsubishi Shipbuilding Co. Ltd to prepare X-DF-A for application across a range of vessel sizes and for integration with the engine builder’s ammonia fuel supply system. This follows a development project with Hyundai Heavy Industries initiated in June 2022.
WinGD recently reported how a unique validation platform housed in its Engine Research & Innovation Centre (ERIC) in Winterthur, the Spray Combustion Chamber (SCC), had enabled rapid development of 2-stroke combustion concepts and emission models. Since first ignition in 2022, the team has gained a wealth of insights into the combustion and emission characteristics which form the basis for a rapid deployment of the technology to the portfolio. WinGD can now provide accurate figures for ammonia consumption and relevant emissions.
Tests on the unique, purpose built single-cylinder engine located at ERIC Winterthur and a multi-cylinder test engine at WinGD’s Global Test Centre in Shanghai will commence, in collaboration with China Shipbuilding Power Engineering Institute Co. Ltd (CSPI).
Across the multiple collaborations and further work with class societies, ammonia fuel supply system suppliers and shipyards, WinGD has focused on defining safety aspects related to the engine installation and ammonia supply system. WinGD has recently published the guidance and installation documentation for its X-DF-A engines across a range of bore sizes, available here.
WinGD CEO Dominik Schneiter (pictured) said: “For the industry to be truly ready for alternative fuels, the engine concepts that use them – and the vessel designs, auxiliary systems, crew training and field support network - need to be ready before the fuels become widely available. Our development timeframe, as evidenced by these milestones in research and collaboration, shows that we are on track to give shipowners and operators the time they need to prepare for decarbonised ship power using ammonia as fuel.”
Nicholas Goubert Joins Ocean Technologies Group as Chief Product Officer
Ocean Technologies Group, leading global provider of Human Capital Management solutions for the maritime industry, has further strengthened its executive leadership team with the appointment of Nicholas Goubert as its new Chief Product Officer. With a wealth of experience in strategy, innovation, teambuilding, and product management, Nicholas is set to drive the company's product vision and strategy to new heights.
Nicholas Goubert brings over 15 years of experience as a product leader in diverse industries, including location services, mobility, fintech, entertainment and media. Throughout his career, Nicholas has consistently demonstrated his passion for building strong product creation teams and delivering innovative solutions that shape the future of industries.
Prior to joining Ocean Technologies Group, Nicholas held key leadership roles at renowned companies such as Clark, SoundCloud, Native Instruments, HERE, and Nokia. His tenure at these organisations has enabled him to develop an extensive skill set in driving strategic product initiatives, fostering cross-functional collaboration, and leveraging emerging technologies such as AI, machine learning and big data to meet evolving market demands and drive growth.
"I am thrilled to be joining Ocean Technologies Group as Chief Product Officer," said Nicholas Goubert. "When considering a new role, I prioritise three aspects. Firstly, I seek sectors with a profound impact on the world, where our work can make a difference. Secondly, I look for opportunities where I believe I can personally contribute and drive positive change. Finally, I’m attracted to companies that have a significant impact on their industry, shaping their fields. Joining Ocean Technologies Group aligns perfectly with these criteria and I can’t wait to get started."
The appointment of Nicholas Goubert comes at an exciting time for Ocean Technologies Group as the company continues to expand its global footprint and reinforce its commitment to delivering best-in-class maritime human capital SaaS solutions that enable ship operators to maximise the performance of their people and fleet assets.
“We are delighted to welcome Nicholas to Ocean Technologies Group, his extensive experience and expertise across a wealth of complementary industry domains make him the perfect fit for our organisation,” said CEO Thomas Zanzinger. “His track record of delivering innovative products and his passion for building strong product creation teams align perfectly with our vision for the future.
“Our Industry is undergoing unprecedented change as we decarbonise and digitalise our businesses and unlocking human potential is key to success. With Nicholas on board, we are confident that we will continue to drive transformative advancements that maximise that opportunity, shaping the industry and delivering exceptional value to our customers,"
New Council aims for widespread use of standardized shore-to-ship power stations
The establishment of the "Promotion Council for Zero Emission Chargers for Ships" has been made, with the aim of creating the widespread use of standardized shore-to-ship power stations.
Consisting of e5 Lab Inc. (President: Michihiko Nakano), Marindows Inc. (President: Yasumasa Suetsugu),
e-Mobility Power Inc. (President: Naoko Yotsuyanagi), CHAdeMO Association (President: Takafumi Anegawa), The Japan Ship Technology Research Association (Chairman: Seiichi Tanaka), Mitsubishi Shipbuilding Co., Ltd. (President: Toru Kitamura), and Development Bank of Japan Inc. (President: Seiji Jige) have established the "Promotion Council for Zero Emission Chargers for Ships (provisional name)" (hereafter referred to as "the Council"), aiming to promote the widespread use of standardized shore-to-ship power stations.
Background
In October 2020, Japan declared "carbon neutrality by 2050" and expressed its aim to "reduce emissions by 46% by 2030 compared to 2013 levels, and aim for even further reductions to 50%." In a joint declaration between Japan and the US in April 2021, both countries also agreed to cooperate on Carbon Neutral Ports (hereinafter referred to as "CNP"). In island country Japan, port areas are pivotal in the international supply chain, with over 99% of exported and imported goods passing through them. These areas are also the heart of coastal industrial zones, where power plants, steelworks, chemical industries, and others, responsible for about 60% of the country's CO2 emissions, are concentrated. Intensive efforts towards decarbonization in these port areas are seen as effective and necessary to promote Japan's carbon neutrality by 2050. In this context, "shore-to-ship power supply," which involves supplying electricity from land to ships, is attracting attention as a concrete measure to reduce CO2 emissions. Approximately 40% of CO2 emissions in ports come from diesel generators on docked ships. Moreover, these generators not only emit CO2 but also cause a significant impact on the surrounding environment by emitting harmful substances such as "noise," "vibration," "PM," "NOx," and "SOx." It is demanded to stop harmful emissions from docked ships at the source through the development of onshore power infrastructure, leading to improvements in global and local environments. The Council, in line with the government's policy and as a world-first initiative involving the member companies, has recognized the effectiveness of zero emission chargers (onshore power) for ships to promote decarbonization in maritime and port areas and the expansion of renewable energy use and has united in purpose.
Goals the Council Aims to Achieve
In the Council, taking into account the various issues in the ship power supply business in the early stages of EV ship diffusion, the participating members will play their respective roles and through an All-Japan collaboration centered on the seven companies mentioned above, we aim to develop and maintain a strategic ecosystem for zero emission chargers for ships, and to strategically engage in efficient operations and effective utilization. This will lead to improved user convenience, an increase in the number of ships using the service, the independence of the ship power supply business, and the further development of chargers. Ultimately, this will realize zero emissions from ships in port areas, the spread of EV ships, the expansion of renewable energy use, and improvements in global and local environmental issues.
Business Plans
For the first phase, by fiscal 2025, we will install prototype standardized universal zero emission chargers for ships in Hanshin Port and Keihin Port, which are international strategic ports where domestic and foreign freight and ships are concentrated. We will then expand these chargers to ports, fishing ports, marinas nationwide, and overseas. Moreover, City of Kobe, Port and Harbor Bureau and City of Yokohama, Port and Harbor Bureau are participating in the Council as observers.
Specific Initiatives
1.Development of standard universal zero emission charger system for ships The system will consist of the three elements shown in Figure 1 and will be a standardized specification that transcends company boundaries.
(i) Onshore power station (standardized charger and billing system)
(ii) Shipboard power receiving module (standardized and modularized hardware and software)
(iii) High-capacity communication between ship and shore (standardized high-capacity
communication system within the port)
Figure 1: Configuration image of Standard universal zero emission charger system for ships
2. Surveys and recommendations on the establishment of standards and rules
3. Creation of social implementation projects to promote diffusion
4. Information collaboration between participating companies
5. Mutual utilization of zero emission chargers between participating companies
6. Public relations and promotional activities to promote the diffusion of zero emission chargers
7. Cost reduction through joint procurement
8. Content creation for “Zero Emission Charger × X”
9. Building a sustainable ecosystem, including reuse
Maersk opens its first own warehouse in Croatia
Maersk has strengthened its footprint in Croatia with the opening of its first own multi-customer warehouse in the country. Located less than 20 kilometres from the port of Rijeka in the northern part of the country, it ensures fast delivery times and efficient cargo handling.
This modern 12,000 sqm facility is another link in Maersk’s global network of 473 warehouses across all continents for resilient and flexible end-to-end supply chain solutions offered to customers. The warehouse became operational with global retail brand Maersk & Spencer as its first customer.
“We we are very proud to launch our first own warehouse and enhance our logistics offering on the Croatian market,” said Ivić Vodopija, East Adriatic and Central Europe Country Manager at Maersk. “Our strategy of providing integrated logistic solutions gets further reaffirmed and we look forward to the new opportunities this will bring to our customers.”
The new warehouse is a Class A type, with high security standards and is designed to minimise greenhouse gas emissions thanks to features like solar roof or LED lights reducing energy consumption. The facility has flexible pallet capacity and offers end-to-end solutions including Customs services, as well a wide range of additional value-adding services available. Additional benefit is the proximity of the future deepwater terminal, Rijeka Gateway.
Ships being arrested to force owners to settle unpaid debts: ITIC
The International Transport Intermediaries Club (ITIC) – a mutual insurer that provides professional indemnity cover for transport intermediaries operating in the marine, offshore, renewable and aviation industries – is warning stakeholders to ensure measures are in place to cover additional financial obligations when settling unforeseen invoices.
In the latest edition of its Claims Review, published bi-annually, ITIC shared a case study where a ship was arrested to force the ship owner to compensate their agent for unpaid debts for a tug owner’s services during previous rescue efforts of a different ship within its fleet.
The ship owner, whose ship experienced difficulties in the Atlantic, requested a ship agent to arrange tugs to attend to the ship. The agent arranged for tugs to participate in the ship's rescue, but the ship subsequently sank.
The agent later received invoices totalling US$ 220,000 from the tug company, which they passed to the owner.
The owner claimed they were in financial difficulties due to losing their ship and could not pay the invoice. They promised to pay once one of their other ships had been sold, but it was undetermined when this might be. In the meantime, the agent was coming under pressure to settle the invoices of the tug company directly.
ITIC wrote to the owner but did not receive a response.
ITIC noted that another ship operated by the same owner was heading to a French port. France is considered an ‘arrest friendly’ jurisdiction as it usually allows for the arrest of sister ships. The ship in question had a different registered owner, but advice from French lawyers confirmed that an arrest should be possible as the beneficial owner appeared to be the same.
The ship was arrested, and to obtain its release, the owner placed security through a cash deposit into the court's account. The ship was released and negotiations for the payment of the invoices began.
Ultimately, the tug owner agreed to lower their demands to US$ 100,000, and the matter was settled for this sum by the owner.
Mark Brattman (pictured), Claims Director at ITIC, says: "If a shipping line becomes bankrupt, suppliers will look to get paid by any means and from any party. Having suitable insurance in place can therefore be very helpful for agents finding themselves in these situations."
10,000+ vessels face scrapping within three years after ‘pivotal’ MEPC 80 decision, says AkzoNobel
Shipowners face an ultimatum this year - upgrade their Carbon Intensity Indicator (CII) technology to comply with new laws or scrap their vessel.
CII data from the previous year must have been calculated and reported to the Data Collection System (DCS) verifier and sent by March 21, 2024 and 30% of ships simply don’t have the technology onboard to do it.
The move comes as the IMO this month announced new carbon targets, which include a 20% reduction in emissions by 2030, a 70% reduction by 2040 (compared to 2008 levels), and the ultimate goal of net-zero emissions by 2050.
Chris Birkert, AkzoNobel Marine’s Coatings Segment Manager, described the IMO’s Marine Environment Protection Committee (MEPC 80 - pictured) strategy as a ‘pivotal moment’ for the shipping industry.
He said: “Everyone’s been waiting for this announcement and shipowners must now decide whether to service or scrap their vessels and then replace them with new buildings.
“Either invest to upgrade your ship to become CII compliant or take the vessel out of service and replace it.
“Shipowners and coatings companies now have a timeline to work towards and understanding and knowing that your emissions data has never been more important.
“Our International HullCare® package with the industry-first Intertrac tool allows you to do just that, and has a proven track record of savings.”
Panama’s Arsenio Antonio Dominguez Velasco elected as next IMO Secretary-General
The IMO Council has voted to appoint Arsenio Antonio Dominguez Velasco of the Republic of Panama, for an initial four-year term, as next Secretary-General. He will succeed Mr. Kitack Lim as of 1 January 2024, subject to the IMO Assembly’s approval.
Naval architect Arsenio Antonio Dominguez Velasco, the first Panamanian and Latin American candidate for this position, has more than 25 years of professional experience in the international maritime world, in addition to his contributions as Ambassador and Permanent Representative of Panama to the IMO. He is currently Director of the Marine Environment Protection Division of the IMO, after serving as director of the Administrative Division and head of Cabinet and of the Organization, giving him the trajectory and experience required for his new position in London.
“It is a historic day that fills us with great pride,” said the President of the Republic of Panama, Laurentino Cortizo Cohen, who had formally proposed the candidacy of the country for the top post at the IMO under the slogan: "Taking the initiative for a united and better future".
In a statement, Guy Platten, Secretary General of the International Chamber of Shipping, said: “It has been a great pleasure and privilege to work with Kitack Lim over the past eight years. Kitack steered the International Maritime Organization successfully through challenging times, calmly and with direction, and everyone at the International Chamber of Shipping wishes Kitack every success in his future endeavours.
“We look forward to working with Mr. Arsenio Dominguez, and know that Mr Dominguez will lead with equal measures of authority, purpose and compassion. The position of IMO Secretary General is not an easy one, and there are undoubtedly challenges ahead as the industry strives to meet the 2030, 2040 and 2050 targets, but it will be a pleasure to tackle these challenges head on with Mr. Dominguez for a better and safer future for our industry and its people.”
It is understood that the Panamanian candidate won the final round of the IMO Council election with more than half of the total votes cast, ahead of runner-up candidates from Turkey and Finland, nominees from Bangladesh, Dominica Republic, Kenya and China having either withdrawn just before the contest began or been eliminated in the three initial rounds of the vote.
FuelTrust analysis finds fuel content discrepancies in 39% of global bunkers
US-based FuelTrust has released a new report examining bunker discrepancies in the maritime industry, which includes examples of unethical practices and fraudulent activities related to bunkering.
FuelTrust’s analysis found that between 2021 and 2022, more than 39% of global bunkers exhibited a fuel content delta of 2% or more compared to the amounts stated in their delivery paperwork. The primary issue identified was the introduction of water into the fuels during the journey from onshore storage tanks to the ship's bunker tank. This problem typically involved an increase from 0.1% to above 0.25% water content, which, although below the regulated threshold, still resulted in average losses of $14,910 per affected delivery.
The maritime fuel market has a long history of not being transparent, says FuelTrust. Bunker fuels account for more than 50% of a vessel’s operational expenses, meaning fraudulent practices and inadequate supply chain management can significantly affect the profitability of vessel owners and charterers, and fuel suppliers. Just this month, eleven Ships lost propulsion, and over 100 ships were affected in a single incident of fuel contamination in Houston.
Even fuel considered ‘on-spec’ (meeting specified quality standards) experiences volume or content issues, leading to financial losses or engine problems. In the past year, over 600 vessels were disabled through fuel problems, despite the fuel being ‘on-spec’, resulting in estimated global supply chain losses exceeding $5 billion. Both fuel suppliers and shipowners incurred financial losses, which are difficult to detect and make claims against.
FuelTrust’s AI-based approach to creating a trusted fuel ecosystem through transparency and traceability addresses the challenges in the fuel supply chain, particularly in the maritime sector. By providing visibility into the final outcomes of fuel products, fuel suppliers can better understand and validate their offerings, while fuel buyers can combat fraud, minimize losses, and mitigate environmental risks.
Jonathan Arneault, CEO and Co-Founder of FuelTrust commented: “This new research across the global bunkering market emphasizes the need for better transparency. By providing visibility, traceability, and security throughout the fuel supply chain, FuelTrust is improving operational efficiency, helping reduce environmental impact, and fostering trust among all stakeholders.”
“As the latest contamination case demonstrates, it’s essential that ship owners, bunker suppliers and charterers can gain better insight into their fuel supply chains. Better information on the fuel we use is also a foundational block of any serious GHG reduction strategy.”
FuelTrust describes itself as a green-tech start-up company, based in Houston, Texas, intended to help create a trusted and sustainable fuel ecosystem. It says it leverages its technology platform to create insights that reduce risk and improve ESG outcomes by authenticating and verifying fuel transactions.
Stream Marine Careers strengthens commitment to next generation of seafarers with latest Cadetship programmes
Leading Officer Cadet training management company Stream Marine Careers (SMC) continues to demonstrate its commitment to introducing fresh new talent into the maritime industry with the launch of new Cadetship programmes for industry-leading companies Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines and Sølvtrans.
Over the last year SMC, part of the Stream Marine Group, has seen the number of Cadets under its management triple, and it now has its sights set on growing even further over the next two years.
The company is delighted to announce for the first time, it will be managing Cadetships for the cruise sector with Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines, as well as world-leading company Sølvtrans, who manage 36 vessels specialising in fish welfare and transport. The agreement with these two globally-renowned companies strengthens SMC’s portfolio of existing clients.
Training Manager at SMC, Kellie McKechnie said: “We are delighted to be strengthening our position as a leading provider of Cadetship programmes with our most recent contracts with Sølvtrans and Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines.’’
“Stream Marine Careers is growing year-on-year and new and existing companies are now seeing how successful our programmes are, with Cadets qualifying and going on to start their careers out at sea. We are looking forward to welcoming our new Cadets with both companies in September.”
The Merchant Navy Cadetships for both companies will see the Officer Cadets completing the three-year training programme, splitting their time between working at sea and studying at one of the seven UK Nautical Colleges.
On successful completion the Cadets will qualify with UK Officer of Watch Unlimited Certificate of Competency as well as an academic qualification in Marine Operations, Marine Engineering or Electro-Technology, setting them up for a career in the maritime industry.
SMC is seeing steady growth in the number of Cadets it signs up, as the shipping industry focuses on recruitment and attracting young people into the industry. The company, based in Glasgow, UK, works with a number of schools and college across the UK to introduce young people to the shipping industry and promote Cadetship programmes.
Ms McKechnie added: “SMC is dedicated to finding the seafarers of tomorrow. The industry is suffering with a shortage of crew so we make sure we are doing everything we can to attract new talent into the maritime industry. We are seeing new challenges with the younger generation who look for a work/life balance as well as access to career progression. Whilst onboard, they are also looking for better connectivity with home so we have to make sure seafaring is still attractive as a career. Over the last few years we have been adapting our programmes to ensure we are preparing young Cadets for the mental aspect of being out at sea, as well as the physical.”
Group CEO of Stream Marine Group Martin White said: “I am delighted to have signed contracts with both Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines and Sølvtrans. They are major global players in the industry and it demonstrates our commitment to training the next generation of seafarers. I am proud that SMC is now making its first steps towards managing Cadets for the cruise industry too. I look forward to working with our new Cadets and setting them up for a lengthy career at sea.”
ENDS
CMA D. ARGOUDELIS announces the creation of new Hydraulics Department division
A new workshop of the Hydraulics department at Greece-based CMA D. ARGOUDELIS & CO S.A. (CMA) has been set up for repairing the most diverse hydraulic components, equipped with high-tech test benches to ensure top-quality repairs.
CMA’s hydraulic department provides various hydraulic services related to the marine industry such as Hydraulic System Design, Installation and Commissioning, Maintenance and Repairs, Component Supply, System Upgrades and Retrofits, Fluid Analysis and Filtration.
The department consists of certified professional level and senior engineers, educated with the most recent technologies to provide the right technical support.
Ioannis & Nikolaos Argoudelis, CEOs of CMA, said: “One of our most important factors for business success, is the ability to address customer needs. With the Hydraulics department we will add a positive sign in our automation business portfolio.”
Houlder and Shell sign decarbonisation collaboration agreement
Design and engineering consultancy Houlder and Shell International Trading and Shipping Company Limited (Shell), have agreed to work together to identify, evaluate, and further develop solutions to accelerate the decarbonisation of the maritime industry.
The agreement will focus on both retrofit and newbuild vessel opportunities of benefit to the wider maritime community. The collaboration will span market research, technical analysis of clean solutions from a design and engineering perspective, safety and risk assessment studies, and greenhouse gas emissions abatement quantification and verification.
Rupert Hare (pictured, left), Chief Executive Officer at Houlder, commented: “The maritime industry has to choose technology pathways, supported by regulation, which offer credible and low-cost routes to a net-zero emissions future by 2050. We must collectively do more to accelerate change – and this is one of the cornerstones of our forward-thinking collaboration with Shell.”
Jonathan Strachan (right), Chief Technical Officer at Houlder, added: “There are a myriad of maritime decarbonisation solutions available. The challenge is cutting through the noise to find the right solutions for a ship type, specific ship, and its unique operating profile. Our collaboration with Shell will support the company in making the right decarbonisation decisions, underpinned by technical design and engineering expertise.”
Through leading and participating in like-minded collaborations and coalitions, Shell and Houlder’s overarching aim is to see commercially operating ships with lower emissions on the water in the 2030s. They believe this can be achieved through a combination of existing technologies and fuels, while more radical change will be required to achieve alignment with the new IMO target of net-zero emissions close to 2050.
Safety is another core component of Houlder and Shell’s agreement. With maritime decarbonisation requiring new technologies and operating procedures, safety remains a central focus for the industry. Changes could introduce risks that may not be adequately managed or eliminated by today’s standards, skills and procedures.
News of this collaboration agreement comes after Houlder announced its work for Shell on the concept design of liquid hydrogen (LH2) carriers, and studies on hydrogen as a cargo or fuel. The news also comes after the IMO’s MEPC 80 meeting and revised greenhouse gas strategy, which requires a well-defined industry view on green solutions to achieve.
Damen to supply Air Cavity System to Amisco for reduced emissions
Damen Shipyards Group is pleased to announce the first sale of its innovative Damen Air Cavity System (DACS) to Amisco. With its ambition to become the world’s most sustainable shipbuilder, Damen has developed DACS to support maritime operators in their efforts to reduce fuel consumption and emissions.
Damen will retrofit the DACS system to Amisco’s cargo vessel Danita in Tallinn, Estonia. DACs is an air lubrication system, borne out of a collaboration between Damen and the Delft University of Technology (TU Delft). It maintains a thin layer of air over the flat bottom of a vessel’s hull, reducing resistance in the water, thereby lowering drag and friction. As a result, the efficiency of the vessel is improved with fuel consumption reduced by up to 15%.
DACS offers vessel operators a straightforward solution, for both newbuild and existing vessels, to comply with regulations such as the Energy Efficiency Existing Ship Index (EEXI) and the Carbon Intensity Indicator (CII) as well as the EU Emission Trading System (ETS). With DACS installed to Danita, Amisco will achieve the CII rating necessary to continue operating in the Baltic Sea in the face of new, stricter emissions regulations. At the same time, the considerable reduction in fuel consumption allows for a rapid return on investment.
"We are excited to partner with Damen and implement this new technology to reduce our emissions," said Allan Noor, CEO of Amisco. "The Air Cavity System is a game-changer for us, allowing us to lower the fuel consumption and reduce the CO2 emissions of our current fleet. This marks the initial phase in our continuous commitment to delivering value to our partners through our existing fleet, while collectively minimizing the environmental impact across the entire supply chain.”
Rutger van Damen, Sales Manager at Damen Green Solutions, said: “We are proud to introduce this technology to the market. Reducing emissions is crucial for the future of our industry and DACS is a practical solution that can make a real difference.”
During the verification of the fuel saving results, Damen was supported by the IACS class society RINA, which played a pivotal role in verifying the impressive fuel-saving results achieved by Damen’s technology and thoroughly examining the working principle of the air lubrication system.
With RINA's expertise and rigorous assessment, Damen received independent validation of the significant fuel savings realized through the implementation of DAMEN air lubrication system. This collaboration has further reinforced the credibility and reliability of DACS technology.
Pino Spadafora, Marine Commercial Senior Director at RINA, said: “Supporting Damen and Amisco in the application of a technology such as the DACS system is an honour for RINA. Fuel optimization is of paramount importance on existing vessels as much as new builds and cooperation within the industry is the way forward to finding new solutions”.
By involving RINA in the sea trials, Damen demonstrated its commitment to transparency, accountability, and excellence.
Sergei Kravtṡenko, Member of the Board at Tallinn Shipyard, one of BLRT Repair Yards, members of BLRT Grupp, said: “We are delighted that our long-term partner Estonian-based shipping company Amisco has entrusted us with the installation of DACS system on board their vessel Danita. At BLRT Repair Yards, we take pride in our commitment to excellence and innovation in maritime installations.
“From expertise and decades of experience, our skilled team was ready to handle the project. This cutting-edge technology will definitely enhance vessel performance and contribute to a greener, more sustainable future. And we are proud to have been a part of the deal.”
IMO statement on Black Sea Grain Initiative
Following Russia’s exit from the Black Sea Grain Initiative, the United Nations-backed deal specifically allowing for commercial food and fertilizer (including ammonia) exports from three key Ukrainian ports in the Black Sea, IMO Secretary-General Kitack Lim has issued a statement, saying:
“I deeply regret to learn of the disruption to the Black Sea Initiative. The unimpeded flow of shipping around the globe is of critical importance and central to the work of the IMO.
“The movement of ships through the Black Sea Initiative and its impact in getting food to those who need it most, as well as stabilizing world food prices, is proof that shipping must always continue to move.
“IMO remains ready to support the UN's efforts to find pathways for solutions to preserve the global supply chain and food security."
At the signing ceremony of the Initiative in Istanbul on July 2022, UN Secretary-General António Guterres had called the deal “a beacon of hope’ in the ongoing Russia-Ukraine conflict that would help stave off famine affecting millions.
Since the ending of the Initiative there have been reported Russian air strikes on Black Sea ports destroying an alleged 60,000 tonnes of grain and damaging infrastructure.
World first with ABS Class green methanol-powered container vessel’s maiden voyage
The first containership ever to sail on green methanol, a Maersk feeder vessel built to ABS Class, has embarked on its historic maiden voyage.
The milestone in the history of alternative marine fuels follows the 32,300dwt vessel’s first green methanol bunkering operation earlier this week.
“The development of this first of its kind vessel represents a genuine landmark for our industry and is the result of significant teamwork that we are proud to have played a role in,” said Christopher J. Wiernicki, ABS Chairman and CEO. “This vessel represents a paradigm shift and requires new thinking in every area from design and operation to skills and training to bunkering and shoreside engagement.
“Green methanol holds significant promise to contribute to the decarbonization of our industry and ABS has been leading the way by supporting its adoption. This vessel and her successors now on order are a vital step in creating more sustainable global supply chains.”
The feeder vessel is the first of 19 dual-fuel engine vessels that can sail on green methanol on order from Maersk to ABS class. When all 19 vessels on order are deployed and have replaced older vessels they will, when operating on green methanol, generate annual CO2 emissions savings of around 2.3 million tonnes.
Ocean Technologies Group launches e-learning courses to support SIGTTO LNG competency guidelines
Ocean Technologies Group (OTG), the leading global provider of Human Capital Management solutions for the maritime industry, has released a series of comprehensive interactive e-learning courses to support competency guidelines for personnel working in the liquefied gas shipping industry.
The guidelines, which have been developed by the Society of International Gas Tanker and Terminal Operators (SIGTTO), outline the required competencies and skills for various roles involved in the transportation and handling of liquefied gas cargoes.
OTG has structured its courses into four different versions targeting the competencies required for each rank. Comprising 113 modules in total, with 330 micro-learning units that map directly to the required proficiencies, the courses are a valuable resource enabling seafarers to build their tanker competency across seven different subject areas at a time and place to suit them.
The courses set out specific performance outcomes comprising defined levels of competence.
“We’re proud to support tanker operators with these interactive modules which are the most comprehensive LNG e-learning courses ever produced. They are designed to provide the knowledge required for each rank serving on LNG tankers in accordance with the standards suggested by SIGTTO. The courses cover the management and best operational practises to safely handle LNG as a cargo while onboard,” said Thomas Zanzinger, OTG’s CEO.
“These kind of detailed competency frameworks will become increasingly important in the setting of standards required for the safe handling and management of new fuels and cargoes as the industry transitions to decarbonised supply chains. OTG is committed to developing appropriate training in support of these frameworks so that seafarers have the right knowledge and learning in place to work safely and efficiently," he added.
The courses can either be added as part of an OTG client’s subscription to the Ocean Learning Platform library of courses or purchased via OTG’s ‘Pay as You Go’ online shop.
Certification options are available for those seafarers that want to obtain official recognition of course completion.
For further information visit Search Results for “SIGTTO” – Ocean Technologies Group (oceantg.com)
Antwerp XL's ‘40 Under 40’ returns ahead of end-November event
The AntwerpXL event is once again looking for the top forty breakbulk, project cargo and heavy lift professionals under the age of 40.
XL 40 Under 40 celebrates the young professionals who have either achieved greatness already or have the potential to become the next generation of industry leaders.
Breakbulk and heavy lift pros are encouraged to nominate themselves, their colleagues and their peers if they are under the age of 40 and have made, or will make, significant contributions to the sector.
Nominations will be open throughout the summer, then a panel of industry experts will decide who will make AntwerpXL’s official 40 Under 40. Winners will receive VIP status at AntwerpXL in November where a special drinks reception and networking event will be held in their honour.
Margaret Dunn, Portfolio Director at AntwerpXL, says: “AntwerpXL is a forward-looking event, showcasing the latest innovations and new ideas that will help the industry navigate the challenges of tomorrow. But tech and talk mean nothing without people to lead the industry. The continued success of the sector is dependent on the next generation of talented professionals.
“XL 40 Under 40 is designed to identify and celebrate the young professionals who are sure to steer the ship from critical leadership roles in the near future. The judges will be looking for people who, thanks to their excellence and commitment, are making a real difference to their organisation or to the wider industry. If this sounds like you, nominate yourself. If this sounds like a friend or colleague of yours, nominate them.”
The competition is open to any breakbulk or heavy lift professional who is under the age of 40 on 28 November 2023. AntwerpXL returns to the Antwerp Expo from 28 - 30 November.
To find out more about Antwerp XL or to nominate yourself or a colleague, visit https://www.antwerpxl.com/visit/whats-on/40-under-40/
TMS unveils themes of its Transportation and Climate Change event to be held in Abu Dhabi
The Maritime Standard (TMS) announce the Keynote Session of its Transportation and Climate Change Conference (TACCC). The session, titled "Tackling Transportation's Contribution to Climate Change," will feature influential speakers from various transportation sectors, all driving change in their respective fields.
Under the tagline "Setting the course for a sustainable transportation future," the Keynote Session aims to lead the way toward decarbonization. The event will take place on September 27, 2023, at the Saadiyat Rotana Resort in Abu Dhabi, UAE.
The Keynote Session will include presentations by senior executives in the following areas:
Sustainable Shipping Practices and Reducing Emissions: A maritime industry representative will share expertise on sustainable shipping practices and emissions reduction, highlighting innovative strategies and initiatives.
Innovations in Electric and Hybrid Vehicles, Infrastructure, and Public Transport: An expert in electric vehicle infrastructure and public transport promotion will explore advancements in electric and hybrid vehicles, charging infrastructure, and initiatives promoting sustainable public transport.
Advancements in Energy-efficient Railway Systems and Electric & Hydrogen-powered Trains: A distinguished leader from the railway industry will discuss progress made in energy-efficient railway systems, enhancing rail transport networks, and the potential of Electric & hydrogen-powered trains.
Developments in Sustainable Aviation Fuel and Low-emission Propulsion Technologies: An aviation industry specialist will present the latest developments in sustainable aviation fuel, carbon offsetting and reduction schemes, and explore alternative low-emission propulsion technologies.
Overview of UN Sustainable Transportation Initiatives: A representative from the United Nations will provide insights into UN sustainable transportation initiatives, focusing on programs like the Global Climate Action Agenda and the Sustainable Transport Action Network.
For more information about the programme and how to attend, please go to: https://tmstaccc.com/
Key US grain exports could fall 15% in 2023, brighter outlook ahead: BIMCO
“US soybean, maize, and wheat exports could fall 15% in 2023 due to droughts that affected harvests last year. However, the upcoming maize harvest may drive a recovery in US grain shipments from the fourth quarter onwards,” says Filipe Gouveia, Shipping Analyst at BIMCO.
According to the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA), the 2022 soybean and maize harvests were affected by drought which caused a 4% and 9% y/y decline in volume respectively.
As the second largest soybean and maize exporter, the US has a significant impact on global supplies. While the loss of US soybeans has been compensated by a large harvest in Brazil, replacing US maize has been more challenging. Argentina’s 2023 maize harvest was also affected by drought, and the war in Ukraine limited both the size of the country’s harvest and its ability to export it.
“In the first seven months of 2023, global grain shipments are estimated to be down 4% y/y. This has contributed to a deterioration of panamax spot rates, as grains account for 23% of panamax cargo,” says Gouveia.
The Baltic Exchange’s Panamax Index is at an average of 1,028 points so far in July. This is uncharacteristically low for this time of year, marking the worst July for panamax earnings since 2016. However, as shipments of a record Brazilian maize harvest ramp up this month, rates could improve.
In addition to higher Brazilian maize shipments, a pick-up in shipments out of the US is expected in the fourth quarter, which could further support rates. The USDA estimates a 1% and 12% y/y increase in volume for the 2023 soybean and maize harvests respectively.
Despite the positive outlook, downside risks for US grains remain. In its latest update, the USDA revised its estimate downwards for the soybean harvest due to dryness in the Midwest. If unfavourable weather persists, further crop loss could occur. Logistical challenges could also emerge if the water levels in the Mississippi River continue to drop, as 60% of US seaborne grain exports are loaded in ports at the river’s mouth.
“US grain exports could increase 12% in 2024, led by a rebound in maize exports. This should help ensure sufficient global maize supplies and mitigate losses resulting from the war in Ukraine and, for now, the end of the Black Sea grain agreement,” says Gouveia.
Jamaica and Canada sign reciprocal recognition agreement to benefit seafarer training and employment
Jamaica and Canada have signed a Reciprocal Recognition Agreement to enable seafarers from the two countries to work on ships sailing under the Jamaican or Canadian flags.
The agreement was signed at the London headquarters of the IMO this week by Joanna Manger, Director General, Marine Safety & Security at Transport Canada, and Rear Admiral (ret’d) Peter Brady, Director General of the Maritime Authority of Jamaica.
Admiral Brady commented: “This is a milestone for both our countries’ seafarers and indeed our respective maritime and transport administrations. Utilising the facility of the STCW Convention we are able to allow our professional mariners to legally work on board the ships that are flagged by our two countries. For Jamaica this is very important so that our seafarers get the opportunity to work on Canadian ships and be paid decent wages.”
Stressing the importance of employing seafarers trained and certified according to the standards laid down by the Standards of Training, Certification, and Watchkeeping (STCW) Convention he noted: “This is critical because internationally trading ships operate at global standards required by international rules and measures promulgated in treaties or conventions by the IMO.” The agreement authorises Jamaica and Canada to verify the quality of education at each other’s maritime training establishments.
Joanna Manger said the agreement will enable Canada to provide more job opportunities and to help its domestic partners who are looking for qualified seafarers interested in working or living in Canada. “We are extremely pleased to be able to sign this agreement with Jamaica today and to embark on this partnership,” she said.
Jamaica now has undertakings for the recognition of certification under the STCW Convention with 22 countries. Admiral Brady noted that this was the first time both Jamaica and Canada had signed such an agreement at the IMO building. He thanked all those involved in facilitating the agreement and advised that Jamaica’s Daryl Vaz, Minister of Science, Energy Telecommunications and Transport, was disappointed not to have been available to witness the event.
Admiral Brady added: “For us this is particularly significant because Jamaica and Canada have had strong relations for a number of years.”
New initiative to scale low-carbon fuel production adopted by ministers at global energy summit
The Clean Energy Ministerial (CEM) has today adopted the Clean Energy Marine Hubs Initiative (CEM-Hubs) at a summit in Goa, India. The first-of-its-kind platform brings together the private sector and governments across the energy-maritime value chain to transform maritime transportation and production hubs for future low-carbon fuels.
The CEM-Hubs initiative is initially backed by Canada, Norway, Panama, Uruguay and the United Arab Emirates (UAE) in partnership with the International Chamber of Shipping (ICS), and the International Association of Ports & Harbors (IAPH). The CEM Hubs initiative is a partnership that’s jointly led by private sector and governments working in close collaboration.
The energy maritime value chain is far from ready to transport the influx of low-carbon fuels that are expected between now and 2050. To accommodate demand, the shipping industry is expected to transport at least 50% of all traded low carbon fuels by 2050, according to the International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA). But the production centres, vessels and port infrastructure required to accommodate expected demand do not currently exist at commercial scale.
So far only one ship in the whole global fleet has been piloted to transport liquefied hydrogen – travelling from Australia to Japan. For hydrogen derivates such as ammonia and other low-carbon fuels moved by ships, the scale is far from what heavy industries, transport, and other sectors would require. To support the global transition to net-zero targets, shipping is expected to transport between two and up to five times the low-carbon fuels it will consume by 2050. The mix of fuels that shipping moves will also need to change to be aligned to the Paris Agreement.
Participants have convened in Goa for the first ever CEM-Hub meeting. The initiative was adopted less than a year after it was first presented, in an unprecedented move by the Clean Energy Ministerial (CEM) that reflects the immense scale of the problem and urgency to establish solutions. The CEM-Hubs initiative and progress will be featured at the next COP28 in Dubai.
The initiative is also supported by the International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA) and the Global Centre for Maritime Decarbonisation (GCMD).
Jean-François Gagné, Head of Secretariat, Clean Energy Ministerial, said: “Ports, shipping, and the logistics network need to be an integral part of the global clean energy transition. The Clean Energy Marine Hubs Initiative is a truly public-private platform between energy, maritime, shipping and finance communities. It represents a unique opportunity to develop concrete implementable actions to ensure greener supply chains globally.”
The Honourable Omar Alghabra, Canada’s Minister of Transport, said: “Canada is pleased to announce its participation as a founding member of the Clean Energy Marine Hubs Initiative, alongside esteemed partners such as the International Chamber of Shipping, the International Association of Ports and Harbours, and other countries from around the world. This vital initiative will reinforce the pivotal role our ports and marine sector will play in advancing the global energy transition. By facilitating the secure and efficient transportation of new clean energy resources, including hydrogen, ammonia, and renewable diesel produced right here in Canada, we are taking significant steps towards a sustainable future on a global scale.”
Jorge Rivera, Government of Panama’s National Energy Secretary, commented: “We are very excited about the launching of the Clean Energy Marine Hubs initiative. Without any doubt, this is going to be a turning point in these sustainable initiatives around the world, and the connection between the energy and maritime industries. We expect to have great results in the short, medium, and long term.”
Bjørn Højgaard, CEO of Anglo-Eastern, commented: “Decarbonisation continues to dominate international shipping's agenda, with alternative fuels playing a critical role in the push to net zero by 2050, as revised at this July's MEPC 80. While much has been explored and discussed about the environmental and technical aspects of alternative fuels, one key area has received less attention: the logistics of alternative fuels. No solution can stand on its own without the necessary infrastructure to support it, which CEM Hubs is addressing.”
Nick Brown, CEO of Lloyd’s Register, commented: “Many nations throughout the world are committed to reducing greenhouse gas emissions and will rely on shipping to access clean energy to power their national grids, as well as enabling mobility of goods and people. Green energy, such as hydrogen and ammonia, will not always be consumed in the same countries where it is produced, making it impossible to tackle the climate emergency without shipping. We welcome the formal creation of the CEM Hubs, which will allow the shipping industry to proactively cooperate with international governments to ensure that new supply chains of clean energy become a reality.”
Captain Rajalingam, MISC’s President and Group CEO, said: “As leaders in global shipping, we recognise transportation’s pivotal role in transitioning to a clean energy economy. The adoption, transportation, and integration of future fuels into the broader economy demands immediate action to unlock demand and achieve scale. We are committed to driving this agenda forward, collaboratively and with purpose.”
Guy Platten, Secretary General of the International Chamber of Shipping, commented: “The momentous speed at which the CEM Hub initiative has been adopted speaks volumes to not only the scale of the challenge before us and the urgency to act, but also the economic opportunity low-carbon energy production offers – particularly to developing economies. For first movers it presents a golden opportunity to develop an industry that will catalyse economic growth and prosperity and provide energy stability for their citizens.”
Patrick Verhoeven, IAPH Managing Director, commented: “It will be the role of shipping and the ports that serve them to become the enablers of the energy transition by offering the capacity to transport what is expected to be 50% of all global zero-carbon fuels. For candidate countries this presents a golden opportunity to develop the hub concept as catalysts of economic growth and prosperity for their citizens.”
Professor Lynn Loo, CEO of Global Centre for Maritime Decarbonisation, commented: "According to IRENA, at least half of net-zero fuels needed in 2050 are expected to be moved by ships. This speaks to shipping’s critical and integral role at the energy-transport nexus. To decarbonise the energy value chain, it is thus imperative for shipping to be at the table, alongside fuel producers, demand drivers, regulators and policy makers so gaps can be identified early and addressed holistically."
Song and video campaign by maritime lawyer to raise funds for Ukraine
A well-known maritime lawyer is using music to raise vital funds and awareness for Ukraine by releasing a haunting song and heart-rending video highlighting the impact of the war from a child’s perspective.
Julian Clark, Vice President and Senior Legal Adviser of Gard (UK) Limited, was inspired to write the song, titled Putin’s War, after hosting two Ukrainian refugee families in his UK home. (He is still in close touch with them).
Now Julian is releasing the song and video for downloading as part of his new fund-raising campaign entitled ‘Dancing in the Craters’ which is available to view on Love Street’s You Tube page.
Recorded by Julian’s rock band Love Street at Peter Gabriel’s world-renowned Real World Studio and produced by award winning producer George Shilling, Putin’s War features captivating guitar solos, soulful saxophone, and grand piano and violin, to accompany Julian’s moving vocals. The song is brought to life through a thought-provoking video produced by Ukrainian film producer Angelina Bakaliar who weaves real-life footage with emotive graphics. Viewing is not for the faint hearted!
Proceeds from the song’s sales are being shared between international maritime charity Stella Maris, which is working in Odesa to support Ukrainian seafarers and their families, and Caritas Ukraine which provides humanitarian support in the country.
Launching the Dancing in the Craters campaign, Julian Clark said: “This is the most challenging but meaningful thing I have ever done. I felt compelled to write this song and Angelina’s powerful visuals have brought it to life and helped us to take the audience on this journey with Ukraine’s people. Hope shines through the tragedy and we all look forward to the day that sunflowers once again grow in a rebuilt Ukraine.”
Urging people to donate what they can he said: “The Ukrainian people need our support. What has become page four or five reading for many remains front page for those fighting for their country in Ukraine. Every donation, no matter how small, can make a real difference for the people of Ukraine, Ukrainian seafarers and their families. Help us support Ukraine and ensure their struggle is not forgotten.”
While any donation is welcome, the campaign guides that £21 will buy a food box to feed a Ukrainian family for one week. Donations to the Dancing in the Craters fundraising campaign are via its Just Giving page.
Anneliese Jost to receive IMO’s International Maritime Prize
Germany’s Anneliese Jost has been selected as the recipient of the prestigious International Maritime Prize for 2022. The decision was made by the IMO Council at its 129th session last week. Anneliese Jost was nominated for the award by the Government of the Federal Republic of Germany.
In its statement supporting her nomination for the prize, Germany cited Ms Jost's "crucial contribution towards achieving the objectives of IMO, in particular in the area of maritime safety." She is described as having a "calm but firm way of communicating and ability to convince others".
Anneliese Jost was born in Munich. She attended Hanover Technical University of Applied Sciences in Germany and, in 1985, graduated from the University of Michigan, USA, with a degree in mechanical engineering with a specialisation in shipbuilding.
Ms Jost's career has included periods as a construction supervisor in the field of hydraulic engineering in Berlin, and as a surveyor of newly built ships in the ship safety department of the classification society Germanischer Lloyd in Hamburg.
In 2000, Ms Jost was appointed as Assistant Head of the Maritime Safety Division within Germany's Ministry for Digital and Transport. In 2006, she became Deputy Head of the Division. From 2019 until her retirement in January 2023, she headed Germany's IMO audit team.
Ms Jost led the German delegation to IMO and was responsible for various studies which enabled further development of IMO regulations. During her time with the German delegation, she acted as a technical expert to various IMO bodies.
Between 2006-2016, Ms Jost chaired the IMO Sub-Committee on Ship Design and Equipment, and on Ship Design and Construction. During this period, mandatory measures were adopted on the towing of wrecked ships and discussions took place on mandatory, verifiable maintenance of life-saving appliances and on the Code of Safety for Special Purpose Ships. Additionally, possible additional requirements for navigation in polar waters were established; these subsequently formed the basis for the Polar Code, adopted in 2014.
Other positions she has held include that of Chair of the Working Party on Subdivision, Stability and Load Lines (WPSSLL) of the International Association of Classification Societies (IACS).
The International Maritime Prize is awarded annually by IMO to the individual or organization judged to have made a significant contribution to the work and objectives of the Organization. The Prize is marked by the presentation to the winner of a dolphin sculpture and includes a financial award, upon submission of an academic paper written on a subject relevant to IMO. (Read more here.)
The Prize will be presented to Ms Jost at an awards ceremony to be held on the first day of the 33rd session of the IMO Assembly (27 November to 6 December).
There were two nominees for the International Maritime Prize 2022. To honour his contribution to the work of IMO, this year's second nominee, Captain David Bruce (Republic of the Marshall Islands), will be recognized with a special certificate to be presented at the awards ceremony.
ABS approves fully autonomous ship framework for Monohakobi Technology Institute and Japan Marine Science
The design of a pioneering, fully autonomous ship framework has received approval in principle (AIP) from ABS.
The fully autonomous ship framework named APExS-auto (Action Planning and Execution System for full autonomous) was developed by Nippon Yusen Kabushiki Kaisha (NYK), Monohakobi Technology Institute (MTI) and Japan Marine Science Inc. (JMS) as part of the fully autonomous ship program MEGURI 2040.
ABS worked with MTI and JMS to review the APExS-auto framework in accordance with the ABS ‘Requirements for Autonomous and Remote-Control Functions’. The APExS-auto framework is designed using a systems engineering approach to govern berth-to-berth autonomous navigation operations. It covers the full spectrum of operations from onboard activities to supervision activities in the remote operations centre.
“ABS is leading the industry with comprehensive analysis and support of autonomous projects from pioneers like MTI and JMS.,” said Patrick Ryan, ABS Senior Vice President and Chief Technology Officer. “This is an exciting time for innovation and technology breakthroughs in maritime.
“ABS understands that autonomous systems are not stand-alone products but fully integrated with vessel infrastructure and the result of numerous advancements in a wide variety of mechanisms including sensors, imaging, connectivity, machine learning and application of systems engineering in ship design.”
“We are grateful for the AIP of our fully autonomous ship framework APExS-auto from ABS,” said Dr. Hideyuki Ando, Designing the Future of Full Autonomous Ships (DFFAS)＋Project Subdirector, Director, MTI Co., Ltd. “We have been working on the system design of autonomous ships utilizing the Model-Based Systems Engineering (MBSE) approach and believe that the AIP is significant in that it validates our thinking and approach in light of the framework of ABS, which has deep knowledge of the safety of complex systems, including autonomous ships, and in that it establishes a communication between us and ABS for the future practical application of the autonomous navigation system.”
“Sufficient risk assessment is essential for the development and introduction of complex systems of systems such as autonomous ships,” said Captain Satoru Kuwahara, DFFAS＋Project Director, JMS Executive Officer and General Manager of Marine Technical Group. “The development of an appropriate and reasonable risk assessment framework is necessary for the social implementation of autonomous ships, and we believe that this collaboration with ABS is a milestone towards this end.”
The AIP provides a roadmap for autonomous vessels complying with the APExS-auto framework to qualify for possible ABS classification notations such as AUTONOMOUS (NAV, MNV, RO3) for navigation, manoeuvring, collision detection and collision avoidance. ABS will continue to work together with MTI and JMS on their journey as they refine the framework for application on real use case vessels.
Maersk performs ground-breaking of World Gateway 2 distribution centre in Singapore
A.P. Moller-Maersk (Maersk) is strengthening its omnichannel-fulfilment capabilities in Singapore, with World Gateway 2, a brand new 1.1 million sq. ft. facility being built in Jurong West. The ground-breaking ceremony was held on July 19, 2023, and this distribution centre is expected to be completed in the first quarter of 2025.
Strategically located in the industrial area with direct access to major highway – Ayer Rajah Expressway (AYE), the facility has convenient access to Tuas Mega Port and Changi International Airport. It is also within close proximity to World Gateway 1, currently Singapore’s largest automated and customs bonded warehouse. The new distribution centre is designed to have a capacity of 30,000 pallet Automated Storage & Retrieval System (AS/RS), with a large floorplate of 160,000 sq. ft.
Maersk’s World Gateway 2 regional distribution centre will increase Singapore’s capacity and capabilities to support omnichannel fulfilment in Southeast Asia,” said Png Cheong Boon, Chairman of Singapore Economic Development Board. “With extensive use of automation and robotics systems, it will be one of the most productive warehouses in Singapore, and will also create many skilled and high value jobs in technology, digitalisation, data analytics and e-commerce.”
“As Maersk becomes a global integrator of logistics, our powerful omnichannel-fulfilment solutions enable our customers to have predictability, visibility and efficiency in their supply chain, improving their profitability and brand reputation in today's complicated marketplace,” said Dominic Gates, CEO of Omnichannel-fulfilment, Maersk Asia Pacific.
“Our continued investment in logistics and services underscores our commitment to support customers’ business needs. Expanding the warehousing footprint and omnichannel-fulfilment competence is essential to our strategic growth, and we’re very excited about the opportunities that lie ahead.”
Supporting customers’ emissions targets and strengthening sustainable solutions is one of the strategic priorities for Maersk. This new facility will be both LEED Platinum- and Green Mark Platinum-certified for its outstanding design and performance in environmental aspects. It will be equipped with motion sensor-LED lights, solar panels, composite panel façade system for building insulation, and building management system for energy efficiency.
ABS Board of Directors elects John McDonald President
ABS Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, Christopher J. Wiernicki, and the Board of Directors have announced that John McDonald was elected President of ABS at its Board meeting last week.
McDonald, who has served as Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer of the company since July 2021, will take on the title of President and remain the Chief Operating Officer of the company.
“John McDonald has seized the opportunity to demonstrate his leadership skills since becoming Chief Operating Officer of ABS in 2021 and will now be given a further opportunity to showcase his strategic insight and leadership capabilities in the marine and offshore industries as he steps into the President’s position,” said Christopher J. Wiernicki, who will remain Chairman and CEO of ABS.
McDonald joined ABS in 1996 as a surveyor and has served in various frontline roles in Korea, the Northern Europe and Africa Region and the Central Region for the former Americas Division. He previously held the position of Vice President of Occupational Health and Safety for both ABS Bureau and its affiliate, ABS Group, and led the former ABS Divisions in Europe and in the Pacific. He also has held operational leadership roles including Senior Vice President of the Western Hemisphere Survey Operations and as Senior Vice President of Global Business Development prior to becoming the Chief Operating Officer.
McDonald has a bachelor’s degree in marine engineering from Maine Maritime Academy and an MBA from Texas A&M University.
By virtue of his election as President, McDonald will also join the ABS Board of Directors.
IMO and IAPH enhance ship-port co-operation
The International Association of Ports and Harbors (IAPH) and IMO have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) for future co-operation in the areas of climate and energy, data collaboration and risk and resilience of ship-to-shore operations.
The MoU was signed last week by Captain K. Subramaniam, President of the International Association of Ports and Harbors (IAPH), and Mr. Kitack Lim, Secretary-General, IMO. They were accompanied by Dr. Patrick Verhoeven, Managing Director of IAPH. The signing ceremony took place in the sidelines of the meeting of the IMO council (C 129, meeting 17-21 July).
The objective of this strategic partnership between IMO and IAPH is to assist developing countries, as identified jointly by both parties, to strengthen their maritime and port sectors and facilitate the adoption of sustainable maritime transport systems and practices.
The Memorandum will utilise IMO's experience as the United Nations Specialized Agency responsible for setting global standards for the safety, security and facilitation of international shipping and the prevention of pollution by ships, in collaboration with IAPH's best practices and knowledge of the most advanced and sophisticated ports to achieve sustainable, inclusive and equitable development.
Improving the capacities and infrastructures in ports in developing countries, in particular in least developed countries (LDCs) and Small Island Developing States (SIDS), is seen as critical in achieving the updated goals set out in the revised 2023 IMO GHG Strategy, adopted on 7 July.
The MoU is in line with the IMO MEPC resolution 366 (79) that invites IMO Member States to encourage voluntary co-operation between the port and shipping sectors to contribute to reducing GHG emissions from ships.
INTERCARGO statement on Black Sea Grain Initiative
INTERCARGO, which represents the world’s dry bulk carrier owners, expressed its concern at the cessation of the Black Sea Grain Initiative.
This humanitarian initiative has enabled the safe transit of ships exporting various agricultural products from three Ukrainian ports – Odesa, Chornomorsk, and Yuzhnyi. It has been instrumental in preventing a global food crisis and some 32.9 million metric tonnes have been exported through the corridors with a significant quantity supporting the World Food Programme. The scheme has also been paramount in protecting the lives of dry bulk carrier seafarers operating ships in the Black Sea area.
INTERCARGO stresses the importance of using all resources available to ensure safety of navigation for bulk carriers and their crews, and supports all efforts by the IMO and international initiatives to find a solution to protect the global supply chain and food security.
Rotterdam Shortsea Terminals (RST) and Samskip join forces to launch first shore power green initiative
RST and Samskip are proud to announce the successful launch of their Green Shore Power initiative, which aims to dramatically reduce CO2 emissions produced by vessels docked by providing new clean shore powered energy solutions.
The joint initiative is an example of what companies can do if they have a common goal and join forces in the energy transition towards CO2 neutrality. The shore power solution is the first of its kind for a container terminal in the Netherlands ports.
The celebration of this milestone event was on Friday, July 21st, where delegations from Samskip, RST, Port of Rotterdam (HBR), Municipality of Rotterdam and HES gathered. During the celebration, ‘Samskip Innovator’ provided an onsite demonstration of the smooth transition between ship power and the new shore power.
The new shore power endeavor was largely possible through the expertise of Harbour Electronical Services (HES) which both prepared and outfitted Samskip’s shortsea vessel ‘Innovator’ to receive shore power. The power supply unit at the quay of RST has been installed by Jolectra.
Onshore power supply systems are a critical step towards the decarbonization of the shipping sector. Given that docked vessels currently leave their engines running to generate onboard electricity while burning gasoil constantly, the impact of green onshore power becomes abundantly clear. For the entire shipping sector, shore-side electricity is expected to reduce CO2 emissions by 5 megatons of CO2 per year (3.7% of global shipping emissions).
With this innovation, Samskip also takes a leading position in preparing for the FuelEU Maritime regulation, which will require shore-power connectivity from 2030 on.
Head of Fleet Management – Vessel, Erik Hofmeester, said: “There are many ways to reduce CO2, such as: Samskip vessels using bio-fuel, the CO2 capturing systems also installed on Samskip vessels, WASP (Wind Assisted Ships Propulsion) and last but not least shore power.
“Green shore power facilitates clean and silent ship-operations in the ports of Rotterdam. We have set ambitious decarbonization targets for the upcoming years, with a clear aim to achieve net-zero emissions by 2040. Remarkably, this goal puts us a decade ahead of the legally mandated requirement for the maritime industry, which is currently set at 2050.We will also continue to use all our resources to protect the future of our company, our customers and partners and our planet”.
CEO of RST – Arno Storm, said: “RST is committed to be a frontrunner in energy transition and is taking a leading role in the port of Rotterdam to work on practical solutions to serve the planet and RST’s customers. I am truly proud to be able to say that we are the first container terminal in the Netherlands which has a shore power connection.
“For me, keying in on the path towards CO2 neutrality means partnering with customers and suppliers and I am thrilled that together with Samskip, HES and Jolectra, we have been able to take a first step. Furthermore, I would like to extend my gratitude towards the Port of Rotterdam authorities who have played an active role in the support and establishment of this pilot”.
Morten Engelstoft elected as new Chairman of TT Club as Ulrich Kranich retires
The liability insurance provider to the international cargo and logistics industry has announced that Morten Engelstoft (pictured, right) is to take over as Chairman of both Through Transport Mutual Insurance Association Limited (Bermuda) (‘TTB’) and TT Club Mutual Insurance Limited (UK) (‘TTI’) on the retirement of the present incumbent, Ulrich Kranich (left).
Engelstoft spent thirty-six years in various positions and across three regions within Maersk. He retired in June 2023 from the position of CEO of APM Terminals. He has a depth of knowledge and vast experience in operations that are at the core of TT Club’s membership base.
He commented: “TT Club remains the foremost specialist insurance provider to the majority of container shipping lines, a substantial number of terminal operators and a wide range of logistics and transport operators. I look forward to leading the Boards and helping to guide the Club on its continuing path of providing essential cover and valuable loss prevention advice to a dynamic and vital global transport community.”
Ulrich Kranich retires from his position as Director and Chairman of the Club after sixteen years. Charles Fenton, CEO of TT Club took the opportunity of thanking Kranich. “Ulrich has been a much valued guiding hand in a period that has seen significant change in our industry. His insight and wise advice has been fundamental to TT’s continued success in this period,” he said.
Kranich commented: “It has been an honour to lead such a valued organisation owned by the industry and in Morten the Club has a fantastic person to take the Club forward to continue to support Members ”.
Ulrike Baum of Rohlig Logistics who has been on the Board since 2016 has stepped down as director. She was similarly thanked for her service, which included time on Board Committees.
Marika Calfas of NSW Ports in Sydney has been appointed to the Board; as has been John Chambers, currently Specialist Director – Insurance who also serves on the TTI Board. Miguel d’Orey of Orey Shipping in Lisbon has been appointed to the TTI Board.
UK announces historic boost to seafarers’ rights and welfare
Thousands of seafarers will be guaranteed fair wages, proper rest periods and suitable training thanks to a new Seafarers’ Charter launched by the UK Government today.
Building on government action already taken, the charter – backed by DFDS Ferries, Condor Ferries, Brittany Ferries and Stena – is part of the Government’s wider nine-point plan to protect seafarers and boost employment protections, ensuring they’re paid and treated fairly – irrespective of flag or nationality.
This is at the heart of the UK’s response to P&O Ferries’ appalling decision to fire nearly 800 of its staff without consultation or notice last year.
The UK Government’s charter will be launched alongside a similar initiative by the French Government during a visit by Maritime Minister Baroness Vere to Paris today to meet her counterpart Minister Berville.
Maritime Minister Baroness Vere (pictured) said: “Fair pay and protection against unlawful discrimination are the basic rights of any employee. Our seafarers deserve nothing less.
“I therefore expect companies across the maritime sector to sign up to this Charter, letting their staff know they’re serious about protecting their rights and welfare.
“Today, in Paris, alongside Minister Berville, we strengthen our commitment to protect those working in the Channel and we’ll continue collaborating with our international partners on this vital issue."
During the UK-France summit in Paris earlier this year, Transport Secretary Mark Harper met his French counterpart Clément Beaune, with both nations agreeing to continue working together to improve conditions for those working in the Channel.
The Government has already delivered the Seafarers’ Wages Act, a key safeguard to protecting domestic seafarers in the UK. The law will make it illegal to not pay the thousands of seafarers regularly entering the UK at least the equivalent of the UK National Minimum Wage.
The Seafarers’ Charter requires employers to:
• pay seafarers for overtime at a rate of a least 1.25 times the basic hourly rate
• ensure adequate training and development is provided
• provide employees with a full, indefinite contract
• allow seafarers to receive social security benefits, including sickness benefits, family benefits, and medical care
• adopt roster patterns considering fatigue, mental health and safety
• provide adequate rest periods between shifts and rosters
• carry out regular drug and alcohol testing
As well as the Seafarers’ Wages Act and the Charter, strong action has been taken against rogue employers using controversial practices which was revealed in the plans to create a statutory code of practice.
The Code will make it explicitly clear to employers that they must not use threats of dismissal to pressurise employees into accepting new terms, and they should have honest and open discussions with their employees and representatives.
John Napton, CEO, Condor Ferries, said: “Condor Ferries is a proud and responsible employer, dedicated to building a diverse, inclusive and authentic workplace for all staff and crew across our network. We therefore fully support the Seafarers’ Charter being launched by the UK government today.”
Christophe Mathieu, Brittany Ferries CEO, said: “When it comes to seafarers’ wages and working conditions, we believe that all ferry companies should aim for the highest bar and not participate in a race to the bottom.
“That’s why this charter is such an important step forward for us. We never forget the importance of seafarers and are proud to be part of the fight to protect their rights, on both sides of the Channel. We also intend to shout about this from the rooftops, urging freight and passenger customers to make the right decision when choosing a carrier.”
Gemma Griffin MBE, Vice President & Head of Global Crewing, DFDS, said: “DFDS welcomes the Seafarers Charter and any related legislation that protects the employment rights of seafarers and ensures that there is a level playing field for all operators. We have been cooperating with the French & UK authorities on the practical application of the charter and the new laws, and are very pleased to see the actions taken by both authorities, so far.”
Ground-breaking ABS study explores potential of commercial nuclear propulsion
The transformational impact of nuclear propulsion on the design, operation and emissions of a 14k TEU container vessel and a 157k DWT Suezmax tanker have been modelled by ABS and Herbert Engineering Corp. (HEC) in a ground-breaking study.
ABS commissioned HEC to carry out the study to explore the potential of advanced modern reactor technology for commercial marine propulsion. The study is designed to help industry better understand the feasibility and safety implications of nuclear propulsion and to support future development projects.
The study, which involved input from leading nuclear reactor developers, modelled the impact of two, lead-cooled, 30MW fast reactors on the container carrier, finding it would likely increase cargo capacity and operational speed, while eliminating the need for refuelling during its entire 25-year lifespan. On the Suezmax vessel, the study found the addition of four, 5MW, heat-pipe microreactors, while decreasing cargo capacity, would raise operational speeds and only require refuelling once during its 25-year life. Both concept vessels would emit zero CO2.
“Our findings from this latest cutting-edge research underscore why the industry cannot afford to ignore the vast potential offered by nuclear propulsion both in terms of emissions reduction and operational efficiency,” said Christopher J. Wiernicki, ABS Chairman and CEO. “A net-zero world is more easily realized through nuclear propulsion, and we are putting in place the foundations for that future today. Turning this into a practical reality will require significant public sector support and ABS is well placed to bring governments and industry together.”
“Advanced or small modular reactors address many of the issues traditionally associated with nuclear for commercial maritime use, with enhanced safety and efficiency, reduced cost and waste and proliferation prevention,” said Robert Tagg, Senior Principal Naval Architect at HEC. “Nevertheless, many questions need to be answered and it is critical that industry evaluate these technologies with a laser focus on safety.”
“HEC is pleased to be able to support ABS and explore the practical application of nuclear power on board. This study is helping us to understand in detail both the potential of modern reactor technology and how this will affect the design and operation of future vessels.”
ABS is playing a pioneering role in supporting the development of nuclear propulsion for commercial vessels. The U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) has awarded ABS a contract to research barriers to the adoption of advanced nuclear propulsion on commercial vessels. The DOE has also contracted ABS to support research into thermal-electric integration of a nuclear propulsion system on a commercial vessel being carried out by the University of Texas.
Voluntary seafarers' charter is a step forward but must be made mandatory: Nautilus
Nautilus International, the UK's largest maritime union, has called the government's Seafarers' Charter "a step forward" but continues to urge the government to make the charter mandatory.
On Monday 24 July 2023, Minister for Aviation, Maritime and Security Baroness Vere of Norbiton launched the voluntary Seafarers' Charter, part of the government's nine-point plan in response to P&O Ferries' mass-sacking in March 2022.
The minister made the announcement in Paris alongside her French counterpart, secrétaire d'État chargé de la Mer Hervé Berville, while signing a joint statement on seafarers' protections.
The voluntary Seafarers' Charter includes action on wages, roster patterns, skills and professional development, tours of duty, rest, and others.
Nautilus International general secretary Mark Dickinson said: "The content of The Seafarers' Charter is a step forward; we particularly commend the government for listening to unions and the industry on the need to address safe roster patterns and combat seafarer fatigue.
"The voluntary charter combined with the Seafarers Wages Act and the measures progressing in French law are key steps in combatting low wages and poor conditions, exacerbated by P&O Ferries sacking 786 seafarers in March 2022. These measures will help establish a level playing field for the employment of maritime professionals on routes between France and the United Kingdom.
"However, to ensure maritime professionals on all routes in and out of the UK can benefit from the provisions within the charter, it must be mandatory as employers whose business model depends upon the exploitation of maritime professionals, will simply not volunteer to change.
"Last year, the UK government told P&O Ferries 'The game is up. Rehire those who want to return. And pay your workers – all your workers – a decent wage.' Whilst this latest development is helpful, until mandatory protections exist for all maritime professionals operating in and around UK territorial waters, it isn't enough.
"The government, whilst making progress, still has some way to go to fully deliver on the ambitions of the nine-point plan announced in the aftermath of the unlawful sackings by P&O Ferries. Nautilus will continue to work with government and industry in driving for measures that represent meaningful improvements in the employment of all maritime professionals."
WFW advises DNB on landmark US$900m Vroon restructuring
Watson Farley & Williams (WFW) has advised DNB Bank ASA on the first-of-its-kind US$900m restructuring of international shipping company Vroon’s senior secured debt by way of a debt-for-equity swap. The restructuring was implemented using an English scheme of arrangement and a Dutch WHOA procedure, the first time that these two restructuring procedures have been used together.
The restructuring was sanctioned by the English and Dutch courts within an hour of each other on 26 May. The wider restructuring also includes various additional agreements with some of the group’s other financial creditors as well as certain additional corporate and operational restructuring measures.
DNB is Norway’s largest financial services group and a major operator in numerous industries both in the Nordic region and internationally. DNB is one of the world’s largest shipping banks and has a strong position in the energy sector.
Headquartered in the Netherlands, Vroon operates and manages a fleet of over 100 vessels across various sub-sectors of the shipping industry.
The multi-disciplinary WFW London team that advised DNB was led by Assets & Structured Finance Partner Patrick Moore, working closely with Counsel Georg Junginger, Senior Associate Laura Gerrard, Associates Louis Brunet and Jan Schneidereit and Trainee Ellen Mackie. Partners Charles Buss and Stephen Parker provided litigation and insolvency advice.
A team from Brodies comprising Partners Bruce Stephen and Duncan MacLean, Senior Associate Hannah Sinclair, Legal Director Shirley Li-Ting and Senior Paralegal Sonia Crolla advised on Scots law. Loyens & Loeff advised on the Dutch law aspects of the matter.
Patrick commented: “We are pleased to have been called upon to assist on this innovative restructuring, involving a multi-disciplinary WFW team. The matter presented several challenges, including opposition by the debtor’s shareholders and the coordinated closing of multiple transactions across a large number of vessels, falling both within and outside the ambit of the court processes.
“In recent years, our team has advised on a number of ‘first-of-their-kind’ restructurings in our key sectors of energy and transport, including Bulb Energy’s special administration and Virgin Atlantic Airways’ restructuring plan, and has acted on numerous restructurings and insolvencies arising from the Covid-19 pandemic. This transaction further cements WFW’s position as a leading advisor for this type of work.”
Charles Taylor Adjusting expands reach in Singapore, adds experience to regional management team
Charles Taylor Adjusting, a leading international loss adjusting business, is pleased to announce the appointment of respected industry veteran, Stephen Thorpe, to a key leadership role within the new Charles Taylor regional hub in Singapore. This strategic move aims to enhance the company’s presence in the Asia Pacific region while reaffirming its dedication to its valued clients in Australia.
Effective 1 July 2023, Stephen Thorpe (pictured) will commence as Managing Director (Asia) – Property, Casualty, Special Technical Risks in addition to his existing role as Managing Director (Global) – Natural Resources. In this hybrid role, Stephen will split his time between Australia and Singapore as he continues his work with global natural resources clients.
With over 35 years’ loss adjusting experience, Stephen specialises in finding timely and efficient solutions to significant and complex losses in the mining, onshore natural resources, transport, engineering and construction industry sectors. Now he will bring this wealth of experience to benefit our clients throughout Asia.
Stephen Thorpe, Managing Director (Asia) – Property, Casualty, Special Technical Risks and Managing Director (Global) – Natural Resources said: “I am excited to lead Charles Taylor Adjusting’s growth in Asia from our new hub in Singapore. We have an outstanding team of over 300 technical adjusters and insurance specialists in the region covering technical and special risks, construction and engineering natural resources, marine and aviation.
“With 11 locations throughout Asia in China, Hong Kong, Indonesia, Japan, Malaysia, Singapore, Taiwan and Vietnam, along with our expanding associate network, Charles Taylor Adjusting is poised to meet the growing client demand for our breadth of services in the assessment and resolution of large and complex claims.”
Richard Yerbury, Chief Executive Officer, Charles Taylor Claims Solutions – International, Charles Taylor Adjusting said: “Charles Taylor Adjusting is a unique team of experts, offering a leading service to our clients throughout Asia across the aviation, marine, natural resources, property, casualty, technical and special risks markets. Stephen Thorpe is already well known to so many of our clients in Asia; his leadership in the region and focus will provide stability, experience and the continued delivery of high-quality solutions to our clients.”
Winner of the 2023 Lüddeke Prize announced by The Nautical Institute
The Nautical Institute (NI), the international representative body for maritime professionals, is pleased to announce Rei Misa (pictured) as the winner of its 2023 Lüddeke Prize.
The Lüddeke awards were made possible by a generous legacy endowment from the estate of Captain Christof Lüddeke. The prize recognises an exceptional maritime student – many previous winners have gone on to become leading practitioners in their field with some becoming President of The Nautical Institute.
Rei Misa already has wide-ranging maritime experience having worked as a Deck Cadet, Marine Surveyor and Junior Claims Handler prior to starting his studies on the MSc Maritime Operations Management programme at Liverpool John Moores University. He has impressed with his excellence in academic studies and with his engagement in the programme, making regular and active contributions to extra-curricular activities according to Dr Robyn Pyne – Programme Leader, Logistics and Maritime Management School of Engineering.
Steven Jones, AFNI – Propeller Club Liverpool has also met Rei through the Club’s engagement with Liverpool John Moores University. He said: “Rei is a student who has been incredibly proactive in dealing with stakeholders from across the industry, he has been dedicated to learning and engaging, and soaking up the wisdom that has been shared. More than that, he has offered his own thoughts and perspectives, providing an informal circular mentoring approach.
“He has distinguished family links into marine insurance, and he has eagerly shared these insights. Also, a passion for his chosen academic focus on electronic bills of lading. Rei has been a pleasure to work with and is sure to have an excellent maritime career ahead.”
As winner of the Prize, Rei receives a cash prize of £750, an award of books from the NI’s publications list up to the value of £250, two years free NI membership as well as a certificate marking his achievement. The Nautical Institute would like to congratulate Rei and wish him a long and successful maritime career.
Leading maritime charity responds to new Seafarers’ Charter
Thousands of seafarers will be guaranteed fair wages, proper rest periods and suitable training thanks to a new Seafarers’ Charter launched by the UK government this week.
Responding to the new Seafarers' Charter, CEO of the Merchant Navy Welfare Board Stuart Rivers commented: “We are reassured to hear that seafarers will be better protected and supported as part of this nine-point plan.
“Seafarers’ welfare was destroyed by the actions of P&O Ferries to sack hundreds of staff last year – and the industry is still recovering.
“But, while the devil is in the detail on how this plan will work, this is a step in the right direction for long-term progress. As the National Seafarers’ Welfare Board and the umbrella charity for 43 maritime welfare charities, we will continue to champion, protect and enhance the wellbeing of seafarers and fishers across the world.”
The MNWB is the umbrella charity for the UK Merchant Navy and Fishing Fleets based in Southampton.
New UK Seafarers’ Charter welcomed but ‘misses opportunity to mandate safe work patterns’
The Seafarers’ Charity, the largest independent grant funder of maritime welfare services, has welcomed Government’s announcement of a new Seafarers’ Charter but wants more to be done to address work patterns that cause fatigue and reduce safety at sea.
Announced today by the Maritime Minister Baroness Vere, the new Seafarers’ Charter is in response to the mass redundancies by P&O Ferries in 2022. It sets out Government’s plans to enhance employment protections for seafarers by ensuring they are paid and treated fairly. Crucially it has been backed by some of the main cross Channel ferry operators such as DFDS Ferries, Condor Ferries, Brittany Ferries and Stena.
This new voluntary Charter will enshrine fair pay and access to social protections that many land-based workers take for granted. It is anticipated that many maritime companies will sign up to the Charter, however, as a voluntary Charter, there is no compulsion or restriction on those companies who have less regard for the welfare of their workforce.
The importance of roster patterns on fatigue and safety is recognised in the new Seafarers’ Charter which requires roster patterns to be adopted which provide adequate rest periods between shifts. However, The Seafarers’ Charity, a long-term advocate of seafarers’ welfare and safety at sea, believes that the voluntary Charter is a missed opportunity to fully commit to tackling problematic roster patterns and tours of duty on cross channel ferries and elsewhere.
Deborah Layde (pictured), Chief Executive of The Seafarers’ Charity said: “The new Seafarers’ Charter is broadly welcomed by The Seafarers’ Charity. I am pleased to see the inclusion of roster patterns within the Seafarers’ Charter, which is in itself, an important recognition of how inadequate rest causes fatigue and can contribute to accidents at sea. However, without a legal mandate to establish safe roster patterns, unsafe practices will continue to be the norm for the less scrupulous. This means seafarer fatigue will continue to be a risk factor contributing to decreased safety at sea for both crew and for passengers.”
NYK, Cargill and Econowind agree NYK’s first wind propulsion installation
NYK Bulkship (Atlantic), an NYK Group company, is to introduce a wind-assisted ship-propulsion unit on a bulk carrier engaged in a long-term charter contract with Cargill International S.A. (Switzerland). This will be the first time for a unit of this type to be installed on an NYK Group vessel.
NBAtlantic will equip the bulk carrier with the VentoFoil wind-assisted propulsion unit from Econowind B.V., wingsail producer based in the Netherlands. This unit is expected to help reduce greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions during vessel navigation. NBAtlantic will collect data on the propulsion generated by this equipment, in addition to meteorological and ocean conditions during navigation, and measure the unit’s effectiveness in collaboration with Cargill International S.A.
Sitting on a 20-foot-long (approximately 6-metre) flat rack container with no walls, VentoFoil has a 16-metre vertical wing that plays the role of a sail. Like an airplane wing, VentoFoil creates propulsion with the pressure difference on both sides of the wing. The unit takes in wind through its suction port and obtains greater propulsion by amplifying the pressure difference.
VentoFoil is smaller than similar equipment, keeping it more out of the way of cargo handling. It is also easy to install and relocate.
Rising M&A to boost dominance of global container terminal operators
M&A-led growth strategies will propel leading regional terminal operators and container shipping lines into the global terminal operator rankings next year, according to Drewry’s latest Global Container Terminal Operators Annual Review and Forecast report.
While the position of the largest global terminal operators (GTOs) at the top of the rankings look secure, the number of companies seeking to invest in the global ports market has increased in recent years. However, with global container port volumes increasing by just 0.5% in 2022, M&A has emerged as the quickest route to build market share.
Eleanor Hadland, author of the report and Drewry’s senior analyst for ports and terminals said: “Increased M&A and privatisation activity will see the number of GTOs increase – Hapag Lloyd, ONE, Adani and Abu Dhabi Ports Group are all set to feature in next year’s league tables.”
In 2022, there was a net increase in the number of companies that qualified as GTOs from 20 to 21. While HHLA dropped out of the rankings due to the closure of its terminal in Odessa after the Russian invasion of Ukraine, MSC and Wan Hai entered the rankings in 7th and 19th position, respectively.
Annual growth in equity-adjusted throughput for the 21 GTOs was 0.6%, which is slightly above the 0.5% increase in global port handling recorded in 2022. The leading operators handled over 48% of the global port volumes on an equity-adjusted basis, stable on a like-for-like basis vs. 2021.
China Cosco Shipping gained ground on back of its increased stake in Tianjin Container Terminal, while China Merchant’s equity-throughput gains follow on from the uplift in shareholding in Shanghai International Ports Group and Ningbo Zhoushan Port Co.
In contrast, APMT slipped down the rankings due to the full-year impact of the sale of Rotterdam Maasvlakte in 2021 and sale of minority stake in Wilhelmshaven in 2022. Similarly, DP World’s monetisation strategy, which has reduced its equity-stake in its flagship Jebel Ali terminal to less than 68% underpinned the 3.1% drop in equity throughput in 2022.
Revenue of terminal operators rose in 2022, despite a slowdown in volume growth. However, by 2H22 the widespread easing of congestion saw storage revenues plunge as dwell times quickly returned to pre-pandemic levels. The easing of port congestion led to recovery in terminal productivity, lowering costs on a per unit basis; for example, less requirement for overtime working and lower levels of rehandling in container yards. However, labour costs, which are partially fixed and account for the highest proportion of opex per unit, jumped in 1Q23 due to year-end salary increases.
In 2022, the Drewry Global Container Terminal Earnings Index dipped 16.3% YoY led by falling revenue and rising cost per unit. However, the pace of decline slowed in 1Q23 due to reduction in operating costs per teu.
“We expect this downtrend to recede as the impact from reduced storage revenues weakens in 2H23,” added Hadland.
In 2022, the sampled terminal operators’ capital expenditure (capex) grew by 18% YoY, marking the second consecutive yearly increase since 2020, when the industry opted to build onto their cash positions by delaying non-essential capex due to the pandemic.
In 2023, high-interest rates have already increased the opportunity elevated in the short term, which will see operators reappraise business cases for capital investments as the hurdle rates of return move upwards.
Small-scale projects that can be funded from cashflow, especially those which generate productivity and/or sustainability gains are less likely to be delayed than greenfield projects and major terminal expansions.
New shipbuilding lending scheme launched to boost UK’s coastal communities
A new government scheme to help ship buyers access finance to buy UK-built vessels and upgrade existing ones will boost Britain’s coastal communities. Through the Shipbuilding Credit Guarantee Scheme (SCGS) the Government will act as a guarantor for lenders, unlocking credit for maritime firms.
The SCGS is intended to help to boost the UK shipbuilding industry and drive growth in areas such as Liverpool, Plymouth, the Solent, Rosyth, Clydebank and Belfast.
Minister for Industry and Economic Security Nusrat Ghani (pictured), a former UK Maritime Minister, said: “Shipbuilding is an integral part of the UK’s industrial identity and through this scheme we are backing our great maritime businesses to get ahead of the competition.
“With cutting-edge vessels designed and built here in the UK this will be a boost to high-skilled careers and every company involved in the supply chain for shipbuilding, helping us to grow the economy.”
The SCGS is expected to create hundreds of new jobs and contribute hundreds of millions of pounds to the economy, according to government estimates based on the demand for commercial shipbuilding in the UK.
The scheme also forms part of the Government’s £4 billion plan to revitalise UK shipbuilding and coastal communities through the National Shipbuilding Strategy Refresh announced last year.
Industry Minister Nusrat Ghani will formally launch the scheme at an event onboard a Thames Clippers’ boat – built at Wight Shipyard, one of the UK firms which stands to benefit from the new scheme – today (26 July) in London.
The SCGS will guarantee a percentage of the value of loans used to purchase, refit, retrofit or repair vessels, sharing the risk with lenders to encourage offers of finance to UK vessel owners and operators.
Shipbuilding Tsar and Defence Secretary Ben Wallace said: “As I set out in the National Shipbuilding Strategy Refresh, this scheme will help build confidence in UK shipyards, allowing them to invest in the people and the technology to drive productivity forward in this vital sector of the UK economy.”
Maritime UK CEO Chris Shirling-Rooke MBE said: “We applaud the Government for delivering on the pledge it made to industry in the National Shipbuilding Strategy Refresh by launching the Shipbuilding Credit Guarantee Scheme.
“The SCGS is a massive vote of confidence from government, and it will empower the UK’s shipbuilding enterprise to compete fairly on the global stage in doing what it does best: building Great British ships.”
The shipbuilding and repair industry is a growing part of the UK’s new green economy. Supporting the purchase, construction and repair of high-value vessels will encourage continued investment in innovative, sustainable, low-carbon maritime technologies.
Four new methanol-ready vessels to be built to ABS Class for Algoma
Algoma Central Corporation (Algoma) has ordered two, methanol-ready, 37,000-DWT, ice class product tanker vessels to be built to ABS Class. This CAN$127m investment followed an order for two, new, 72,250-DWT, methanol-ready, Kamsarmax-based ocean belt self-unloading vessels that will also be built to ABS Class from Algoma.
The new product tankers will be entered on long-term time charters under Canadian flag, trading primarily from Saint John, New Brunswick, with deliveries to ports in Atlantic Canada and the U.S. East Coast.
The methanol-ready Kamsarmax vessels will support Algoma’s decarbonization efforts with the new ships designed to exceed EEDI Level III requirements and to include Tier 3 engines. The vessels are expected to be 40 percent more efficient than the ships they will replace, owing to a combination of fuel efficiency and optimized cargo lift.
“ABS is proud to help Algoma modernize their fleets and support their sustainability strategy. Methanol is a promising fuel source to reduce shipping emissions, and these vessels will be ready to adopt this as bunkering infrastructure matures,” said John McDonald, ABS President and Chief Operating Officer.
“These vessels have been designed with safety and optimization at the top of mind and will be a model for the next generation of vessels. ABS has worked with Algoma for over 25 years providing technical expertise and services to help us achieve quality vessel performance, and we look forward to continuing to work together to maximize safety and accelerate efficiency,” said Gregg Ruhl, President and CEO of Algoma.
Opportunities of the blue economy will be focus of Barcelona event Tomorrow.Blue Economy
Promoting and developing the potential of the blue economy and encouraging the preservation of marine and ocean resources as an engine for economic growth. This is the aim of the Tomorrow.Blue Economy congress, which will gather experts from all over the world from 7 to 9 November at Fira de Barcelona's Gran Via venue to address the opportunities and challenges of this sector, which is essential for the future of the planet.
The event, which will highlight the importance of the responsible use of ocean resources for economic growth, is organized by Fira de Barcelona with the collaboration of Barcelona City Council, through Barcelona Activa; Port de Barcelona; the World Ocean Council (WOC), the leading international business organization in the field of sustainable maritime economy; and Smart Ports: Piers of the Future, an alliance that promotes the digital and sustainable transformation of ports.
In its second edition, the congress will be attended by experts, scientists, companies, startups and institutions that will share solutions and experiences to advance along this path based on innovation, in an interdisciplinary approach and through public-private collaboration. The program will address key issues such as climate change, finance, offshore energy, water management, biodiversity, green shipping, smart ports, recreational boating, tourism and careers in the blue economy sector.
The Port of Barcelona, leading Smart Ports: Piers of the Future, a network that connects some of the world's most innovative ports such as Antwerp-Bruges, Busan, Gothenburg, Hamburg, Los Angeles, Montreal and Rotterdam, will once again host a space dedicated to the future of ports, both from the point of view of digitalisation and the environmental and economic opportunities offered by looking after our seas and oceans.
The founder and president of the World Ocean Council, Paul Holthus, stated: "Barcelona is a global hub for the Blue Economy, making it the perfect place to engage the global ocean business community worldwide to generate new business opportunities in support of smart and sustainable coastal cities and maritime industries”.
The Councillor for Economic Promotion and Employment of the Barcelona City Council, Raquel Gil, stressed that "it is very good news that a benchmark event on cities incorporates the sea as an active agent of the blue economy. Barcelona has a huge potential full of opportunities for people and companies through the maritime environment. The smarts cities take on the challenge of including the sea and this is possible thanks to the public-private collaboration with the Barcelona City Council, Fira, Port and WOC. It is along these lines that we have a roadmap to make the blue economy grow with the possibility of creating quality jobs and more organizations in the blue sector".
The President of the Port of Barcelona, Lluís Salvadó, said: "After organizing four editions of Smart Ports: Piers of the Future, an event that places Barcelona as the world capital of port innovation, our commitment to lead the smart transformation of ports is now backed by a broader and more powerful strategy that includes the themes of the blue economy, which goes beyond ports and cities and takes the sustainable ocean as a reference to turn it into an economic powerhouse and a source of wealth.”
Along these lines, the European Report on the Blue Economy 2023 published by the European Commission with the latest available data, corresponding to the year 2020, points out that the contribution of the Blue Economy to the GDP of the European Union in 2020 was 129.1 billion euros with a gross profit of 43.6 billion euros, generating 3.34 million jobs.
In recent years, Barcelona has made a firm commitment to the blue economy. According to data from Barcelona Activa, the blue economy generated a turnover of 3,938 million euros in Barcelona in 2019 and provided employment for more than 16,000 people. In this same line, entities such as the Port of Barcelona and Port Olímpic are developing projects to attract startups that have the blue economy at the core of their activity.
Tomorrow.Blue Economy, together with Tomorrow.Mobility and Tomorrow.Building, is part of the Smart City Expo World Congress 2023, the world's largest event on cities and urban innovation, which this year is expected to have more than 1,000 exhibitors and representatives from more than 800 cities and 140 countries.
Chemtanker owners seek fleet renewal as earnings ease from recent highs: MSI
An easing of chemical tanker earnings in Q2 has not discouraged owners tempted to place newbuilding orders. After a period of extremely strong vessel earnings and asset valuations, an unwinding of the support that created the earnings boom has seen spot and timecharter rates fall from their highs, though still remain at elevated levels.
This bifurcation of the market has seen owners tempted back to the shipyards with ordering picking up steadily from Q1 and into Q2, reports MSI in its Chemical Tankers Q2 2023 report. The slow trickle of orders has quickened despite higher costs of capital and uncertainty over future fuel technology.
The summer has brought with it an end to high one-year timecharter rates, freight and asset prices for chemical tankers, a rally which started in Q3 22. As MSI has previously highlighted, the high earnings enjoyed over the last year have less to do with high volume demand and more with disruptions in the tanker market stemming from the war in Ukraine and the subsequent tonnage draw from the clean petroleum products (CPP) market.
The release of swing tonnage from the CPP market has impacted one year T/C rates, with fewer deals executed over the last quarter with operators less inclined to commit to long-term charters at such high prices in a period of uncertainty. Despite spot rates softening for chemical and product tankers in recent weeks, owners have still been able to achieve healthy returns as bunker prices eased at least six months ahead of the spot market declines.
Newbuild contracting activity at the start of 2023 was initially subdued thanks to high slot costs and long lead times at shipyards; just four newbuild tankers of an aggregate 40,000dwt were contracted in the first two months of this year. Since then, there has been a notable uptick in contracting activity during Q1 in large part driven by three midsize owners placing orders for series of 18,500dwt vessels at Chinese yards.
This momentum carried over into Q2 23 and by mid-June, a further 18 chemical tankers with an aggregate 252,000dwt had been contracted. The largest vessel ordered was a 47,900dwt dual-fuel methanol carrier though the other contracts placed in the first five and a half months of this year have been for sub-19,000dwt chemical tankers.
“With product tankers continuing to split their time between the CPP market and chemical/edible trades, MSI expects earnings for product tankers to ease in H2 23 and into 2024 but remain at elevated levels,” said Bonita Nightingale (pictured), Senior Chemical Market Analyst, MSI. “Some owners are expected to react to the softening in rates by scrapping older tonnage which will support the overall sector employment rate and rates and earnings will remain above historical averages over the next year.”
UK tax authority publishes draft legislation on reforms to tonnage tax regime
Commenting on draft legislation published for Finance Bill 2023-24, James Bailey, a corporate tax director at accountancy and business advisory firm BDO said: “As announced in the Spring budget, details of the inclusion of ship management activities within UK tonnage tax have now been released, along with the proposed increase to the limit on capital allowances for lessors of ships.
“The proposed changes will allow the inclusion of ship managers, who manage qualifying tonnage tax vessels, to elect in the UK tonnage tax regime from 1 April 2024. This measure is aimed at making the UK tonnage tax regime more internationally competitive and encourage the growth of UK based ship management. However, given that the regime will only apply to the management of vessels within UK tonnage tax, it may have limited impact particularly for ship managers who manage vessels not within the UK tonnage tax regime.
“The calculation of the tonnage tax profits of a ship manager will be broadly 1/5th of the equivalent tonnage tax profits of the vessel operator. Ship managers will therefore need to evaluate the benefits of the UK tonnage tax regime and determine whether this alternative method of calculating the taxable profits of these activities represents a valuable relief.
“There will be no associated cadet training requirement imposed on ship managers electing into tonnage tax, which would otherwise be the case for UK tonnage tax vessel operators. This exclusion is helpful, with the rationale being that any training requirement is already being met by the vessel operator.”
“Historically there has been a restriction on capital allowances relief for a lessor that leases vessels to operators within the UK tonnage tax regime. The purpose of this restriction was to prevent the intended benefits of the tonnage tax regime being transferred to the providers of finance of vessels. The legislation increases the limit on expenditure to which capital allowances can be claimed by the lessor to £200 million (from £80 million). This limit has not changed since 2000 and the increase has been introduced with the aim of maintaining competitiveness and also as a recognition of general price movements and changes in vessel designs and costs.”
HEMEXPO and DNV sign agreement covering energy-saving devices capability assessment
Hellenic Marine Equipment Manufacturers and Exporters – a leading suppliers and exporters association for the international shipping sector, has reached an agreement with the world’s leading classification society, DNV, for the assessment of energy-saving devices (ESDs) produced by HEMEXPO member companies.
Under the terms of the agreement, in the first instance, DNV will review a makers list provided by HEMEXPO to identify ESDs that fall in the category of energy saving devices, according to DNV expertise. In the second step, DNV will assess which regulatory metrics – i.e., the Carbon Intensity Indicator (CII) and the Energy Efficiency Existing Ship Index (EEXI) – the relevant ESDs affect.
Finally, the classification society will issue a letter of professional opinion for the HEMEXPO products that fall into the ESD category. This will confirm that the product is assessed as an ESD, as per step 1, and describe the regulatory metrics it influences, as per step 2.
Eleni Polychronopoulou (pictured), HEMEXPO President, said: “Our agreement with DNV is a significant breakthrough as it aligns closely with the need for an international standard on ESDs, and HEMEXPO’s endeavours to encourage the marine equipment industry’s transition towards green solutions, which HEMEXPO is working towards. ESDs support ship owners and yards in meeting their environmental sustainability objectives, and this agreement will facilitate the acceptance of impactful technologies within the maritime industry.”
Whether selected for retrofit or at the newbuilding stage, ESDs can help shipping companies improve their CII, EEXI and EEDI (Energy Efficiency Design Index) ratings – and as the maritime regulatory landscape evolves, their importance will only grow, Polychronopoulou added.
Chara Georgopoulou, Head of the Maritime R&D and Advisory - OCCS Manager for DNV Greece, commented: “We are pleased to sign an agreement with HEMEXPO to assess its energy-saving devices. The maritime industry has set ambitious sustainability targets and improvements to vessel efficiency and ESDs, alongside new fuels and digitalisation, can significantly contribute to achieving those goals.
“ESDs can be instrumental in helping to reduce fuel use, cut greenhouse gas emissions and fully contribute towards compliance. For wider adoption however, the industry needs confidence in the technology. By working together to review HEMEXPO member products, DNV is proud to help build this confidence and ensure that the shipping industry can use ESDs to meet its decarbonisation goals.”
HEMEXPO is committed to delivering environmentally friendly solutions and services to support shipping’s green transition. In addition to ESDs, its member companies offer sustainable technology including friction-reducing hull coatings, shore connection facilities and carbon capture systems.
Maritime venture builders Flagship Founders and Signal enter strategic partnership
Two of the leading maritime technology venture builders have announced a partnership to jointly develop new technology start-ups for the industry. Signal is taking a stake in the German venture studio Flagship Founders and will contribute data and APIs from its Signal Ocean platform to help accelerate new venture development.
The partnership includes a total investment volume of €2.5 million and complements the €3.5 million funding round Flagship Founders closed earlier this year.
Signal is an Athens, London & Singapore based business which runs commercial tanker pools, has developed a leading AI software platform, and provides investment to early-stage ventures. Its venture building and investment arm Signal Ventures has to date supported 15 start-ups in the shipping, supply chain and commodities space. AI analytics firm OilX, Signal’s first start-up incubated through its venture studio, was sold to Energy Aspects in January this year.
Berlin-based Flagship Founders, in turn, is a leading European venture studio focusing on maritime technologies, logistics, and shipping. Flagship Founders has already produced four successful start-ups since it was founded three years ago. Most recently, Flagship Founders venture zero44 announced a financing round with participation from Atlantic Labs, among others.
"We are very excited about the partnership. Flagship Founders and Signal share the same view of the maritime economy and the success factors for building technology startups," explains Fabian Feldhaus, Co-Founder and Managing Director of Flagship Founders. "We also complement each other perfectly: Signal is one of the most innovative maritime technology players and cover the whole spectrum from commercial and operational to VC investment and corporate venture building. Whereas we bring a startup background, have proven our skills in building scalable business models with clear customer benefits, and are very well-connected in Germany. In combination, this results in a big win for both sides."
By bringing their respective strengths into this strategic partnership, Signal and Flagship Founders will build new technology start-ups for global shipping more quickly and efficiently. Signal Ocean's comprehensive data platform will play an important role in the development and scaling of ideas. The companies also expect the partnership to provide mutual support in the areas of regional network access, sector-specific expertise, and talent acquisition.
Nikolas Pyrgiotis, VP of Ventures at Signal, is also convinced of the mutual benefit of the partnership: "The maritime ecosystem is global, but startup ecosystems are mostly local and tend to operate in silos. Coalitions like this are important to gain access to new investment opportunities and complement expertise and network reach. We believe that the shipping and technology depth of Signal coupled with data from The Signal Ocean Platform will accelerate the development of Flagship Founders’ ventures and together we will advance venture building for maritime technology start-ups worldwide."
ITIC and ICS to host a panel discussion on decarbonization, future skills and challenges during LISW
International Transport Intermediaries Club (ITIC) and the Institute of Chartered Shipbrokers' (ICS) London & Southeast (SE) Branch will host a panel discussion as part of London International Shipping Week (LISW).
The theme of the panel discussion is 'The Shipping Debate – decarbonisation, future skills and challenges – is shipping ready for it all?' and will take place on 11 September at 4:45 pm at the London offices of Thomas Miller, management company of ITIC. The panellists will discuss decarbonisation in light of the International Maritime Organization’s (IMO) updated Greenhouse Gas (GHG) Strategy and the need for the maritime industry to understand the evolving technologies and operational practices, as well as the future skills needed to meet the more stringent regulations.
The panel will comprise of Elly Howe, Environmental and Sustainability Coordinator at Portsmouth International Port; Ian Metzger, Shipping Analyst at Braemar; Nikki Sayer, Managing Director at Casper Customs and Bjoern Sprotte, CEO of Ship Management at V.Group. ITIC's General Manager, Robert Hodge, will chair the discussions.
"The adoption of the IMO’s updated GHG strategy is an important step forward for the industry, and it is crucial that practitioners across all segments of the maritime value chain, including shipbrokers and other third-party service providers, understand how the emerging technologies and regulations could impact them and the potential liabilities they could face, as well as how their businesses may need to adapt.
“As an organisation representing the interests of shipbrokers, ship managers, agents and other marine professionals, together with the ICS, we are taking the opportunity to bring together a panel of highly experienced practitioners to hear their perspectives on how the challenge of achieving the updated emissions targets from the IMO will impact their businesses," said Robert Hodge, General Manager at ITIC.
“The Institute of Chartered Shipbrokers is a professional body representing many professions in the movement of ships and cargo. It is important that we fully understand what the aims are and the new regulations, any possible impacts and the training required. Global shipping moves significant cargo volumes across the world with the objective of being green and sustainable. The Institute London and SE branch welcomes this panel discussion as part of our contribution to the wider investigation of technical compliance,” said Mike Robarts, FICS, Chairman of the Institute of Chartered Shipbrokers (London and SE Branch).
ITIC and the ICS invite stakeholders and the media to attend the event; spaces are limited on a first-come, first-served basis. To ensure you are registered to attend, kindly email your RSVP to itic.invitations@thomasmiller.com.
ClassNK grants Innovation Endorsement for Products & Solutions to Bearing CII Optimizer
ClassNK has granted its Innovation Endorsement for Products & Solutions to a CII management solution called Bearing CII Optimizer developed by Bearing, Inc.
In order to promote the spread and development of innovative technologies, ClassNK has offered Innovation Endorsement for Products & Solutions. ClassNK supports the deployment of products and services through third-party certification for equipment and software technology with innovative functions.
Bearing CII Optimizer is an AI-powered CII management solution. In addition to estimating current CII ratings, it enables the prediction of future fuel consumption and end-of-year CII ratings. Furthermore, it features functions such as visualizing CO2 emissions under different operating conditions, quantifying measures and their effectiveness in achieving the target CII rating for each vessel and providing a user-friendly interface.
ClassNK has verified the functions of Bearing CII Optimizer, 1. Monitoring the current CII ratings for vessels without manual data entry, 2. An interactive user Interface to visualize the CII ratings for vessels and display potentially problematic vessels, 3. Forecasting end-of-year CII ratings based on expected operation patterns and forecasted weather conditions, using AI-powered vessel performance models, 4. Simulating various operating conditions (e.g., vessel speed or days sailing per month) and estimating their impact on the CII rating, using AI-powered vessel performance models, 5. Estimating the impact on costs, emissions and mileage based upon different operating conditions, and issued a certificate to the company.
Foreship-designed ammonia-fuelled container vessel for Seaspan receives AiP
Classification society American Bureau of Shipping (ABS) awarded Seaspan Corporation and the Mærsk Mc-Kinney Møller Center for Zero Carbon Shipping (MMMCZCS) in collaboration with Foreship an Approval in Principle (AiP) for the design of a 15,000 TEU ammonia-powered container vessel. The certificates were presented at the ABS office in Copenhagen on July 25th, 2023.
Ammonia is a promising alternative marine fuel. However, there are currently no ships capable of sailing on ammonia. In 2022, Seaspan and the MMMCZCS jointly initiated a project to better understand the challenges and opportunities of designing a large ammonia-fueled container vessel. A concept design for a 15,000 TEU container vessel was developed in close collaboration with ship designer Foreship and classification society ABS.
The project included defining the safety objective, impact of ammonia as a fuel on vessel performance, completion of a hazard identification (HAZID) qualitative risk assessment and development of the concept design. Documentation included a fuel range and endurance analysis, ammonia tank and system location assessments, general arrangement, main machinery and electrical system design, and initial vessel stability calculations.
The project is connected to the Singapore Ammonia Bunkering Feasibility Study (SABRE) consortium, focusing on developing and demonstrating an ammonia supply chain in Singapore. Phase 1 performed an end-to-end technical and commercial feasibility study of ammonia bunkering in Singapore along with a preliminary ammonia bunkering vessel design. Phase 2 is investigating how to mature the commercial feasibility so that contractual terms across the supply chain are prepared and can be executed to establish an ammonia bunkering operation in Singapore. The 15,000 TEU vessel was designed as a potential receiver of ammonia fuel from bunker vessels currently under design and development.
Speaking on the presentation of the AiP, Peter Jackson, Senior Vice-President Assets & Technology at Seaspan Corporation, said: “This is a very good example of industry collaboration, where leading maritime organizations are working together and taking tangible steps to decarbonise the maritime industry. Ammonia is a very promising future marine fuel and this project is a vital and significant step in the development and realization of ammonia powered containerships.”
Thomas McKenney (far right), Head of Ship Design at Mærsk Mc-Kinney Møller Center for Zero Carbon Shipping, added: “This project highlights the importance of collaborative design development and proper safety case integration as the ammonia fuel pathway matures for the maritime industry.”
“This landmark vessel is an important step towards helping ship owners and operators benefit from ammonia’s zero-carbon tank-to-wake emissions profile. However, ABS recognizes that ammonia presents a specific set of safety and technology challenges, and we are committed to leading the industry in supporting its safe adoption at sea,” said Panos Koutsourakis, ABS Vice President, Global Sustainability.
Shaun White (far left), Managing Director UK at Foreship Ltd, added: “Foreship has a clear strategy and focuses on decarbonization services and supporting the marine industry to achieve net zero targets. This innovative project demonstrates how Foreship works in collaboration with ship owners, classification societies and research organizations applying industry-leading naval architecture and marine engineering expertise to ship designs using promising alternative fuels.”
A report detailing the concept design, how the ammonia safety case was developed and outcomes from the risk assessment will be published by MMMCZCS. The potential commercialization of the vessel design concept based on technology and shipyard readiness will be the focus of the next stage of this project.
WFW advises First Citizens Bank on US$123m Greek shipping loan portfolio acquisition
Watson Farley & Williams (WFW) advised First Citizens Bank (FCB), on its acquisition of a US$123m portfolio of 11 shipping loans previously held by HSBC Bank. The loans acquired pertain to 14 vessels owned by eight different ship owners.
A longstanding leader in Greek maritime finance, HSBC has recently been divesting itself of its shipping loan portfolio to other lenders, with FCB the latest bank to acquire a significant share of said portfolio. The acquisition substantially expands FCB’s footprint in the Greek shipping market, providing it with numerous opportunities to network with new clients and key industry players.
Founded in the 1898 in North Carolina, FCB is the largest family-run bank in the United States. It merged with NYC-based CIT in 2022 to form a top 20 US financial institution with over US$100bn in assets.
The WFW Athens Assets & Structured Finance team that advised FCB was led by Partner Vassiliki Georgopoulos, supported by Counsel Georgia Asimakopoulos, Senior Associate Marilena Kossyfa, Associates Eleni Antoniou, Jenny Anastasopoulou, Stavroula Giannopoulou, Marianna Psarrou and Vasiliki Emiri.
Vassiliki commented: "We are honoured to have advised FCB on this major acquisition. Being instructed to do so highlights WFW's well-established expertise when it comes big-ticket shipping finance transactions".
Emissions insights could cut EU-mandated carbon costs of shipping by 50%
LSEG (London Stock Exchange Group) and Siglar Carbon, a maritime emissions analytics company, have announced an agreement to enable customers to evaluate the different carbon options for cargo programmes via Workspace.
The agreement will combine Siglar’s emissions insights with LSEG’s industry-leading European carbon markets and industry emissions analytics to help charterers, traders, brokers and ship owners understand, predict and improve the carbon consequence of commercial shipping decisions and control the related carbon cost exposure. The data will allow them to instantly locate the most carbon efficient alternative.
From January 2024 shipping will be included in the EU Emissions Trading System (ETS). As part of this, shipping owners, charterers and traders will need to mitigate potential additional shipping costs by seeking more carbon efficient fleets. According to analysis from LSEG and Siglar Carbon, choosing carbon-efficient ships and route planning could drive down potential carbon emission costs for traders and charterers by as much as 50%.
Fabrice Maille, Head of Shipping & Agriculture at LSEG, comments:
“When trading physical commodities, it is vital to have the right data and insights when evaluating the different options for cargo programmes to cut emissions. For traders and charterers, this could halve carbon emissions costs.
“There are already ongoing efforts to decarbonise focusing on aspects such fuels but given how quickly the ETS will come into force, planning carbon-efficient voyages is low hanging fruit logistically.”
Sigmund Kyvik, Siglar Carbon CEO, comments: “Our carbon solutions already play a pivotal role in driving decarbonisation in the shipping industry. Through LSEG, we can capitalise on its unique position and scale of its Workspace platform to bring our insights to a wider audience.”
According to the Siglar Carbon index, a ship carrying gasoline between Europe and the USA via the TC2 route - one of the most commonly traded tanker routes – would emit approx. 1,800 tonnes of CO2 on the round voyage. The most efficient alternative would emit approx. 1,200 tonnes and the related EU ETS cost would be approx. 25,000 USD. The least efficient choice would emit 2,500 tonnes with a EU ETS cost of 50 000 USD. In 2026, once the EU ETS is fully phased in the same cost would add up to approx. 63,000 and 125,000 USD respectively.
For ship owners, Siglar analysis show that a charterer or owner who is active in the European short sea market with 20 ships could generate approximately 100,000 tonnes of CO2 eligible emissions a year. At a carbon cost of USD 100 per EUA, this would mean an added cost of USD 10 million per year once the EU ETS is fully phased-in. Charterers and owners engaged in larger vessels could easily generate ETS eligible emissions close to 500,000 tonnes of CO2 per year with an annual carbon cost of 50 million USD.
Panama Maritime Authority recommends ICS Medical Guide for its vessels
The ICS (international Chamber of Shipping) is pleased to announce that the International Medical Guide for Seafarers and Fishers has now been officially recommended for use on board by the Panama Maritime Authority.
The Flag State has issued a merchant marine notice recommending that this modern and practical medical guide be included on the list of publications approved on board Panamanian-flagged vessels.
The International Medical Guide for Seafarers and Fishers can be ordered direct from ICS Publications and ebooks through a range of platform providers.
This user-friendly, up-to-date and comprehensive medical guide is designed to be used on board all ships and fishing vessels, anywhere in the world. The £225 RRP includes:
- The International Medical Guide for Seafarers and Fishers, comprehensive guidance on injuries, illnesses and health issues;
- The Ship’s Medicine Chest, featuring the latest and globally available medicines and equipment; and
- 10 transportable Action Cards for use in emergency situations.
MENAS wins internationally recognised health and safety accolade from RoSPA
Middle East Navigation Aids Service (MENAS) has scooped a prestigious international Royal Society for the Prevention of Accidents (RoSPA) Award, demonstrating its commitment to health and safety excellence.
MENAS, a branch of the International Foundation for Aids to Navigation (IFAN), won a Silver Award in the Engineering category, showing its dedication to ensuring its personnel have a safe working day. It is the fourth consecutive RoSPA Award for MENAS having previously being awarded Silver in 2022 and Bronze in 2021 and 2020.
The RoSPA Health and Safety Awards is the largest occupational health and safety awards programme in the UK. Now into its 67th year, the Awards have almost 2,000 entries every year, covering nearly 50 countries and a reach of over seven million employees. The programme recognises organisations’ commitment to continuous improvement in the prevention of accidents and ill health at work, looking at entrants’ overarching health and safety management systems, including practices such as leadership and workforce involvement.
While most awards are non-competitive – recognising individual organisations’ achievements – competitive awards are presented in 20 industry sectors and for specialist areas of health and safety management.
Operating from its main base in Bahrain and a support base in Abu Dhabi, MENAS owns and maintains an extensive network of Aids to Navigation (AtoNs) as well as owning four DGPS transmitters which provide essential positioning information, and broadcasting Notices to Mariners, advising on hazards to shipping.
Commenting on the award, Mahdi Al Mosawi (pictured), General Manager, Middle East Navigation Aids Service said: “We are delighted to, once again, receive a prestigious RoSPA Award for our commitment to health and safety. We pride ourselves in our safety performance and to have this recognised in such a way is testament to all our hard work in striving to achieve safe working conditions.”
Julia Small, RoSPA’s Achievements Director, said: “Accidents at work and work-related ill health don’t just have huge financial implications or cause major disruption – they significantly impact an individual’s quality of life. That’s why good safety performance deserves to be recognised and rewarded.
“We are thrilled that MENAS has won a RoSPA Award and would like to congratulate them on showing an unwavering commitment to keeping their employees, clients and customers safe from accidental harm and injury.”
Sponsored by Croner-i, the RoSPA Awards scheme is the longest-running of its kind in the UK, and receives entries from organisations across the globe, making it one of the most sought-after achievement awards for the health and safety industry.
INTERCARGO warns against complacency as liquefaction remains greatest contributor to deaths in dry bulk sector
Cargo liquefaction still remains the greatest contributor to loss of life associated with bulk carrier losses while grounding remains the main cause of ship losses, according to the recently published Bulk Carrier Casualty Report 2013-2022 from INTERCARGO.
The document was submitted to the International Maritime Organization in May, ahead of the 9th session of its Sub-Committee on Implementation of IMO Instruments (III), which takes place at the IMO from 31st July to 4th August and has a key role in casualty analysis and issuing lessons learned from marine incidents.
The Casualty Report provides 10-year information on bulk carrier casualty statistics, looking at trends in casualties in terms of both loss of life and loss of ships, drilling down into the size and age of vessels as well as Flag State performance.
While the report shows a clear trend of improved safety and declining ship losses at a time of fleet growth, it also shows that major incidents involving loss of life are still occurring and the industry must examine why they are still happening - there is no room for complacency.
Operations Manager Xianyong (Joe) Zhou, says: “As the voice of global dry bulk shipping, INTERCARGO is determined to help lead the response to these events. While the Report highlights that improvements are being made in safety, there is still clearly more to do to make shipping safer. We must continue to learn how we can best protect the lives of seafarers as well as the vessels and their cargo from damage and loss.”
The report highlights that between 2013 and 2022, 26 bulk carriers of more than 10,000 deadweight tonnes (dwt) were reported lost, with the tragic loss of 104 seafarers’ lives.
Statistics for 2022 alone show the loss of two bulk carriers, one due to a collision and the other from losing power and sinking in rough seas, with a loss of 12 seafarers from these incidents.
The rolling report also highlights that four of the five bulk carrier casualties, which led to the loss of 70 lives, occurred as a result of cargo liquefaction; four were loaded with nickel ore and one with bauxite.
In terms of ship losses, grounding was the most common reported cause between 2013 and 2022, accounting for 12 bulk carriers lost (46.2%), with various other causes including problems with machinery and equipment.
Learning lessons from incidents and casualties and the sharing of experience have proven to be effective in raising safety awareness and, in addition to the submission of the INTERCARGO Bulk Carrier Casualty Report to IMO every year since 1996, the association has made its voice heard on a number of safety issues at IMO through papers and interventions.
The Bulk Carrier Casualty Report can be downloaded free of charge from INTERCARGO’s website - https://www.intercargo.org/wp-content/casualty-report/2023/
Bio-LNG bunkering available today in almost 70 locations in Europe, North America and Asia
SEA-LNG has carried out an analysis of the green LNG bunkering market which shows that bio-LNG is available today in almost seventy ports worldwide, including in Singapore, Rotterdam and the US east-coast.
The data on the expanded availability of bio-LNG as a marine fuel is revealed in the coalition’s update to its online Bunker Navigator tool, which provides information on the bunker availability of fuels in the LNG pathway worldwide.
Bio-LNG used in the maritime industry is produced from sustainable biomass feedstocks such as human or agricultural waste, which means it does not compete with the production of food, fibre or fodder, as defined by regulations such as the EU’s RED II and the Renewable Fuel Standards in America. Annual production of biomethane, from which bio-LNG is produced, is currently around 30m tonnes or around 10 percent of shipping’s total annual energy demand.
The current global fleet of 355 LNG-fuelled vessels, excluding LNG carriers, are all capable of using bio-LNG as drop-in fuel without any modification. Bio-LNG can also be transported, stored and bunkered in ports using the existing LNG infrastructure, which provides a route to further expansion of its availability in coming years. In general, the use of bio-LNG as a marine fuel can reduce GHG emissions by up to 80% compared to marine diesel on a full well-to-wake basis.
Depending on the method of production, bio-LNG can have net-zero or even net-negative GHG emissions on a lifecycle basis, creating immediate opportunities for vessel operators to cut GHG emissions and offering a sustainable route to decarbonisation by 2050.
In October 2022, analysis by a team at the Nanyang Technological University’s Maritime Energy and Sustainable Development Centre of Excellence (MESD) which asked practical questions about bio-LNG emissions, availability and cost showed a huge global potential for the expansion of biomethane production of up to 20 times current production levels by 2050. Accounting for demand for other sectors, MESD forecast that bio-LNG as a marine fuel could be available in sufficient quantity to fully decarbonise approximately 13% of the global shipping fleet in 2050.
Commenting on the update to Bunker Navigator, Adi Aggarwal, General Manager of SEA-LNG said: “The fact that bio-LNG is commercially available now and being used as a drop-in marine fuel by operators in Europe, North America and Asia, demonstrates the sustained contribution that the LNG pathway can make to decarbonising our industry, starting today. Climate change is a stock and flow problem, the longer our industry waits to start using low-carbon fuels, the tougher the decarbonisation challenge will be.”
More information on the bunkering availability of LNG, bio-LNG and e-LNG, and the development of LNG bunkering infrastructure worldwide can be found at SEA-LNG’s bunker navigator tool. The Maritime Energy and Sustainable Development Centre of Excellence’s report on the role of bio-LNG in shipping industry decarbonisation is also available online. SEA-LNG has also produced a bio-LNG fact sheet that addresses myths and misconceptions about the fuel.
Seafarers’ views sought on ISM Code
Seafarers are invited to take part in an online questionnaire as part of a comprehensive study to assess the effectiveness of the International Safety Management Code (ISM Code) and how well it is implemented.
Seafarers have a key role in implementing safety and environmental protection policies, in particular the safety management system (SMS) on board ships at sea. Through the questionnaire, their feedback will be instrumental to understanding how effectively the ISM Code is being implemented and will inform future work on relevant instruments.
The ISM Code provides an international standard for the safe management and operation of ships and for pollution prevention. It requires shipping companies to carefully consider their management structure, and the responsibilities and authorities of those involved in the operation of their ships from the perspectives of safety and environmental protection.
The Code was introduced following several serious incidents where human error and management failings were found to be contributing factors. One example is the capsizing in 1987 of the ferry, Herald of Free Enterprise, just outside the port of Zeebruge in Belgium in which 193 people died. That year, the IMO Assembly adopted resolution A.596(15), which called upon the Maritime Safety Committee to develop guidelines concerning shipboard and shore-based management to ensure the safe operation of ro-ro passenger ships. The ISM Code became mandatory in 1998. (See more here.)
Thirty years on, the IMO Secretariat has commissioned the Study on the Effective Implementation of the ISM Code to provide objective evidence and conclusions along with proposed measures on modernizing provisions under the ISM Code to improve onboard safety and environmental protection policies.
As well as asking basic questions on age, gender and length of service of the seaborne workforce, the survey aims to assess seafarers’ level of involvement in onboard safety-related decision-making and determine their views on the effectiveness of the ISM Code. There are also questions on levels of satisfaction with working and living conditions and on how companies deal with seafarers’ fatigue, stress and mental ill health.
Those who wish to take part can do so until 30 September. The questionnaire can be accessed here.
Participation is anonymous, and responses will be treated as confidential. It should take around 15 minutes to complete.
Findings from the Study will be reported to the Maritime Safety Committee when it meets for its 108th session, 15-24 May 2024.
Grafmarine solar energy cells tested on Carisbrooke vessel
Carisbrooke Shipping Ltd, which operates a fleet of multi-purpose vessels from offices in Cowes on the Isle of Wight, signed a letter of intent with Anglesey and Manchester-based Grafmarine to utilise the cutting-edge NanoDeck AI Solar tile management solution.
The companies have worked in partnership over the last 12 months, providing Grafmarine with a marine vessel to test their NanoDeck technology (pictured), a solution which can be attached to any flat surface – in this case, a cargo ship – to capture, store and remotely manage clean energy generation via AI solar technology.
This included a return voyage from Scotland to West Africa, when the NanoDeck sent live data that gave both organisations a better understanding of how the equipment will withstand the rigours of a marine environment.
The first vessel to install this solution was the UAL Osprey, with plans to roll it out to multiple vessels when additional tests are successfully concluded.
Captain Simon Merritt for Carisbrooke Shipping said: “We are extremely excited to be the first trialling such innovative technology, which is already providing promising results. With further modifications and upgrades, we hope Grafmarine will find a viable solution not only for Carisbrooke but also the wider shipping industry to reduce their emissions and provide sustainable shipping above and beyond the goals set by the IMO (International Maritime Organization).”
The crew on the vessel will support Grafmarine with basic maintenance and monitoring of the hardware and solar cells. They will be trained on how to operate the system and access will be given to Grafmarine and partners to carry out assessments and collate results.
Grafmarine Commercial Director Nigel Marc Roberts said the collaboration will help support the IMO's vision for a cleaner renewable power source to reduce the industry’s massive impact on the environment due to greenhouse gas emissions.
“Our tests with Carisbrooke demonstrated the technology does work and provided us with data that will allow us to improve the system further,” he added.
“Trialling it in Equatorial waters gave us a sense of how many efficiency gains can be made and has given us even more confidence in the Nanodeck as a clean, affordable, and sustainable alternative to fossil fuels. We thank Carisbrooke for their support and look forward to continuing the relationship.”
Grafmarine also has test locations in the Celtic Sea via the Offshore Renewable Energy Catapults (ORE) new test buoy at the Marine Energy Test Area (META), as well as a sustainable smart-port platform in the Port of Tyne and plans for further sites across Europe.
ONE unveils FLX reefer service connecting Latin America and Florida
One Network Express (ONE) announces FLX, a new service connecting the West Coast of South America to the East Coast of North America (Florida), effective September 2023.
Many Latin American fruits, vegetables and seafood have been gaining popularity worldwide, as a result of which the region’s reefer container transportation has seen a remarkable growth, nearly doubling over the past few years. To further improve the quality of its transportation services for the trade, ONE is investing in state-of-the-art equipment, including Control Atmosphere (CA) containers and telematics devices. FLX will launch in September 2023 in preparation for the harvest and shipping season.
The new service will deploy four vessels in order to ensure schedule stability. This service will connect Callao and Paita (Peru), and Guayaquil (Ecuador) to South Florida with one of the fastest transit times on the market. The direct routes include Callao-South Florida in 11 days, Paita-South Florida in 9 days, and Guayaquil-South Florida in 8 days.
Furthermore, FLX provides a direct connection from South Florida to Honduras, in addition to destinations in Colombia, Ecuador and Peru. With hub ports like Cartagena (Colombia) and Callao (Peru), ONE services can be seamlessly connected with other services to/from the United States, East Coast South America, Europe, Caribbean and Asia.
Chilean exporters can also conveniently connect their cargoes via Callao, adding to the route’s accessibility. In summary, the FLX route offers multiple connection options:
Callao - Paita - Guayaquil - Cartagena – South Florida - Puerto Cortés - Cartagena – Callao.
Yu Kurimoto, Managing Director of ONE said: "We aim to share South America’s distinctive flavors with people across the globe. With our FLX and LUX services, we are excited to open new doors for businesses and individuals, enabling them to enjoy the authentic tastes of this vibrant region."
Panama signs an agreement with Canada to promote job opportunities for Panamanian seafarers
The Panama Maritime Authority (AMP) is committed to the opening of new markets and promotes the initiative of signing Agreements with other Maritime Administrations and Memorandums of Understanding (MOU) with shipping companies of national and international prestige, aimed at exchanging experiences and knowledge technicians, that allow the execution of the powers of Panamanian seafarers, which will positively impact the performance of their duties.
In this sense, within the framework of the 129th session of the Council of the IMO, at its headquarters in London, the signing of the Memorandum of Cooperation concerning the Mutual Recognition of Training and Certification according to the Rule I/10 of the International Agreement on Standards of Training, Certification and Watchkeeping for Seafarers, 1978, Amended (STCW’78 Agreement, as amended), took place between the Panama Maritime Authority and the Department of Transportation of Canada.
On behalf of the AMP, the Minister of Maritime Affairs, Noriel Arauz, signed the Agreement, and for the Department of Transportation of Canada, the General Director of Maritime Safety, Joanna Manger.
This MOU will allow Panamanian seafarers to serve on board ships registered under the Canadian flag, while boosting the national workforce and strengthening technical cooperation ties between both governments.
GenPro releases its first sustainability report in accordance with the updated GRI Universal Standards
GP General Procurement Company Limited (GENPRO) has released its first sustainability report in accordance with the updated Global Reporting Initiative (GRI) Universal Standards.
From its inception, GenPro has been fully committed to its Sustainability Strategy and its defined four pillars of sustainability – Planet, People, Peace and Partnership. GenPro’s Sustainability Mission is to drive sustainability throughout the procurement process and generate viable efficiencies and efficacies for its members and suppliers in a fully transparent, measurable and sustainable manner.
By undertaking a Materiality Analysis and Climate Socio-economic Risk Assessment, the company has been able to demonstrate that it effectively manages the social, environmental, and economic impacts of its operations. Furthermore, it has enabled the company to identify and prioritise the sustainability issues that are most relevant to its business and stakeholders, ensuring that GenPro’s sustainability initiatives align with the needs and expectations of its stakeholders. The Climate Socio-economic Risk Assessment allowed the company to assess its business operations and supply chains. Corporate supply chains are critical in achieving sustainable development goals, as reflected in the evolving global regulatory framework.
The sustainability report serves as a comprehensive record of the company’s actions throughout 2022, holding it accountable in accordance with the updated GRI universal standards. Since its inception, GenPro has endeavoured not only to drive sustainability throughout its procurement processes but actively advocate and educate on the importance of the same. GenPro places sustainability values at the core of its business strategy, as demonstrated by its strategic recruitment initiative in 2022 to onboard two additional experts in Waste Management, Sustainability/CSR Strategy & Reporting and Value Chain Sustainability Management. All members of its Compliance and Sustainability team have obtained relevant certifications aligned with the most recent updates from the Global Reporting Initiative (GRI). This certification empowers them to proficiently conduct assessments and materiality analyses.
The company chosen to support in the preparation of the report was Grow Sustainability Consulting. Maria Theodosiou, GenPro’s Managing Director, said: “Our collaboration with Grow Sustainability Consulting dates back to 2020, and we have cultivated a strong rapport with them. This partnership is characterised by a shared passion and commitment to driving meaningful change. As a consultancy, they possess a comprehensive understanding of the vast responsibilities encompassed by Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) considerations and wholeheartedly contribute to our sustainability endeavours.”
GenPro firmly believes that the future of sustainable progress lies in fostering collaborations and partnerships across various domains, even embracing unexpected alliances. Ms Theodosiou added: “Corporate Responsibility is no longer a choice - it’s a business imperative, without which one cannot remain profitable, relevant, or reliable. Our hope is that all companies in the maritime procurement sector release sustainability reports. Clients can then choose the right procurement partner by comparing companies on the basis of ESG performance.”
You can read GenPro’s sustainability report by visiting https://www.gen-pro.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/GENPRO-SUSTAINABILITY-REPORT-2022.pdf.
Purus Wind appoints Oliver MacManus as General Manager
Purus Wind, a leading provider of low-carbon offshore wind vessels, is pleased to announce the appointment of Oliver MacManus as general manager, with immediate effect.
Within this new role, Mr. MacManus (pictured) will focus on overseeing the running of the construction/service operation vessels (C/SOV) business. He will also work more broadly on developing and implementing growth strategies whilst ensuring best-in-class service and client retention. The appointment is integral to positioning Purus Wind for future growth as the business continues to expand its fleet of next-generation battery hybrid C/SOVs and crew transfer vessels (CTVs).
Commenting on the appointment, Tom Nevin, business head, Purus Wind said: “Oliver is a great asset to the team, strengthening its leadership as the business continues to grow. He brings a wealth of complementary knowledge and network connections, and most importantly shares our passion for providing low-carbon transportation solutions for the construction and operation of offshore wind farms.”
Mr. MacManus has over 10 years’ experience in the offshore wind industry, previously holding positions with several leading developers and OEM suppliers. He has worked as a CTV vessel master before moving to various offshore SOV coordination and management roles. Onshore, MacManus has held roles as a marine coordination lead and marine operations manager. His experience includes tenures with companies including GE Renewable Energy, SMC (Specialist Marine Consultants) and E-ON. Mr. MacManus holds an MCA Certificate of Competency along with ISM lead auditor (Lloyds) and vessel inspection (IMCA AVI) accreditation.
In May 2023, Purus Wind signed a contract for two battery hybrid C/SOVs with VARD. The order followed one for eight battery hybrid and methanol-ready wind farm operation vessels from Damen, and three battery hybrid CTVs from Strategic Marine earlier this year.
“Purus Wind integrates the latest low-carbon technology with flexible, customer-focused vessels and solutions,” said Oliver MacManus. “Our expanding fleet will support more clients in the global offshore wind industry as they grow their footprint across the UK, Europe and Asia whilst decarbonising their own operations. I am proud to join such an accomplished team - one that values of safety, innovation and respect.”
Purus Wind is a subsidiary of Purus Marine, a provider of low-carbon maritime transportation and infrastructure systems.
ICS Tanker Safety Guide (Liquefied Gas), Fourth Edition now available to pre-order
ICS is pleased to announce that the new edition of Tanker Safety Guide (Liquefied Gas) can now be pre-ordered. Developed and reviewed by senior industry experts with direct experience in the field, this comprehensive guide been presented in a user-friendly and modernised format, with a significant upgrade in the visual representation of technical information, including infographics and flow diagrams.
New in this edition of the guide are the following:
- Alignment of the ship/shore safety checklists with ISGOTT 6.
- Emphasis on simplifying the human element processes on board to reduce the chance of root cause accidents attributed to human element.
- New elements on bunkering and simultaneous operations.
- Expanded guidance on rollover, enclosed spaces and mooring.
- Updated section on reliquification to incorporate new technologies.
- Useful and relevant annexes pulled into the main body of the guide for easy reference.
Tanker Safety Guide (Liquefied Gas), fourth edition, has been written for on board deck and technical officers, those training or providing training in liquefied gas transportation, and anyone engaged in the transportation of liquefied gas by sea.
This new guide is priced at £470 and is available in print and ebook. Find out more and order from ICS Publications.
World Maritime Theme 2024: "Navigating the future: safety first!"
"Navigating the future: safety first!" has been selected for the International Maritime Organization's 2024 World Maritime Theme, which will culminate in the celebration of World Maritime Day on 26 September 2024.
The theme reflects IMO's work to enhance maritime safety and security, in tandem with the protection of the marine environment, whilst ensuring its regulatory development process safely anticipates the fast pace of technological change and innovation.
IMO Secretary-General Kitack Lim said: "This theme would allow us to focus on the full range of safety regulatory implications arising from new and adapted technologies and the introduction of alternative fuels including measures to reduce GHG emissions from ships as IMO strives to ensure the safety and efficiency of shipping are maintained, and potentially improved, so that the flow of seaborne international trade continues to be smooth and efficient."
Safety has been at the heart of all of IMO's activities since the Organization was established in 1948. The regulatory framework is continuously evolving as gaps become apparent and as a result of IMO's proactive work to anticipate changes needed to accommodate emerging technologies and innovation – a prominent example being the currently ongoing development of a goal-based Code for maritime autonomous surface ships (MASS Code).
Next year marks 50 years since the adoption of the 1974 SOLAS Convention, the key IMO treaty regulating maritime safety.
Digitalization and automation are increasingly revolutionizing the shipping industry by introducing new technologies that enhance safety, security and efficiency, optimize performance, reduce environmental impact and ensure sustainability.
This is improving the overall efficacy and competitiveness of the shipping industry, making it possible to design, construct and operate ships more efficiently, handle more cargo, reduce costs and enhance customer satisfaction.
Shipping transports about 90% of global trade and is the least environmentally damaging mode of transport. It is manifestly obvious that improving the safety of ships and reducing their greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions go hand in hand – both are critical to achieving a sustainable and efficient maritime industry. The theme "Navigating the future: safety first!" promotes IMO's ambitious and accelerated GHG reduction policy which includes the assessment of safety risks, that come with the introduction of new and adapted technologies and alternative fuels, and the development of regulatory measures to address and ultimately mitigate those risks.
The theme is also closely linked to the UN 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development and several of the UN's Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 7 on ensuring access to affordable, reliable, sustainable and modern energy by facilitating access to clean energy research and technology; SDG 8 on promoting sustained, inclusive and sustainable economic growth, full and productive employment and decent work for all; SDG 9 on building resilient infrastructure, promoting inclusive and sustainable industrialization and fostering innovation; SDG 13 on taking urgent action to combat climate change and its impacts; and SDG 14 on conserving and sustainably using the oceans, seas and marine resources for sustainable development.
The IMO Council, meeting for its 129th session, endorsed the theme following a proposal by IMO Secretary-General Kitack Lim.
DP World Logistics welcomes five new customers at London Gateway
DP World, a global provider of end-to-end supply chain solutions, has welcomed five new customers at its latest facility at London Gateway in the first 100 days of operation, following surging demand for warehousing space near the capital.
The remarkable level of interest at the multi-user warehouse stems from businesses in the FMCG, manufacturing and industrial sectors. The news represents further evidence of the attractiveness of London Gateway’s location – just 28 miles from the capital – coupled with the comprehensive contract logistics offer of DP World, a leading provider of end-to-end supply chain solutions.
Jonathan Himsworth, Vice President Sales at DP World Logistics, said: “We are delighted that so many international businesses have already taken advantage of our latest facility at London Gateway. We offer faster market access on account of our unrivalled location and low carbon solutions, which help our customers to reduce the amount of CO2 in their supply chains.”
“Our bonded facility also benefits from Authorized Economic Operator certification, which means much faster access to cargo after it is discharged from a vessel. I would urge other companies interested in the convenience and flexibility of our services, which includes customs clearance and express quay collection, to get in touch to find out more.”
DP World now offers customers more integrated services to manage their supply chains. Its commitment to delivering an end-to-end to service is demonstrated by providing to customers a network of its own warehousing across the country, including at London Gateway’s Logistics Park, where the port-centric facilities mean less distance is travelled from port to warehouse.
Jonathan added: “We are recognized as a market leader in fulfilment, e-commerce and complex value-added solutions manufacturing support, assembly services and export packing, transportation management reverse logistics repair and service parts. Through technology and strategic innovation, we aim to do nothing less than revolutionise the movement of goods to the market.”
In addition to its UK hubs at London Gateway and Southampton, DP World’s offer includes the P&O Ferries and P&O Ferrymasters subsidiaries, and contract logistics businesses respectively, all of which are being integrated into the company’s global network. Operating in 78 countries, DP World now handles 10 per cent of world trade.
First shore-based power for container ship at RST
Rotterdam Shortsea Terminals (RST) and shipping company Samskip, in partnership with the Port of Rotterdam Authority, have put into service a shore-based power installation, as yet in a trial phase.
Starting from 2030, European regulations will mandate container ships larger than 5000GT to utilise shore-based power. Currently, there is no established standard for receiving shore-based power using a low-voltage installation, unlike the existing standard for receiving shore power with a high-voltage installation.
This trial at RST aims to explore if operating a low-voltage installation at a frequency of 50Hz, instead of 60Hz, is adequate for short-sea vessels. Using a lower frequency for the shore-based power installation leads to substantial cost savings.
The terminal has taken the responsibility of building the installation, and the Samskip Innovator vessel has been adapted to utilise this new power source. The Port of Rotterdam Authority is closely involved in the pilot and looking forward to the results.
This initiative marks the first-ever shore-based power installation at a container terminal in the Netherlands.
Long-term container freight rates hit two-year low as overcapacity looms
Global long-term shipping rates sank to a two-year low in July, with the latest data from Xeneta’s Shipping Index (XSI) showing a fall of 9.5% since June, adding to a deep collapse that started last year. Long-term valid contract rates have now lost 57.8% of their value since the same period in 2022.
Xeneta’s real-time data, crowd-sourced from leading global shippers, makes bleak viewing for carriers with rates falling on all the main trading corridors. Xeneta market analyst Emily Stausbøll points out that market indications also show there will be little respite on the horizon for carriers.
‘Carriers waiting for higher volumes in July, and in the coming months due to peak season, look increasingly likely to be disappointed,’ says Stausbøll. ‘Even if volumes do increase, and whatever happens to demand, overcapacity is now inevitable as these record numbers of new ships being delivered this year will have a wide-reaching effect,’ adds Stausbøll.
The figures show an alarming situation unfolding for carriers as June saw the highest ever monthly deliveries of new ships, with more than 300 000 TEU of capacity from a total of 40 new ships added to the market. In the first six months of the year, a total of 990 000 TEU was delivered, with around the same to come in the second half of 2023.
Low demand is still the underlying factor affecting rates and the figures for July were gloomy across the board. The XSI for Far East exports fell by just 2.7% to 188.62 in July, but this is now the lowest this index has been since April 2021, and a 69.5% drop from July last year.
European Imports were down by 12.0% from the previous month and this sub-index is now down by 52.7% since the start of this year. A slight fall of 2.9% in the XSI for US imports has brought the index to 231.6 points in July. ‘This is the only index still above 200, or still more than twice as expensive as the average rate in January 2017,’ explains Stausbøll.
‘On all but three of the XSI sub-indices, the averages of all valid long-term rates have dropped by more than 50% compared to a year ago,’ says Stausbøll. ‘The average shipper on the main trades should be paying less than half the rates they were a year ago on the long-term market. Despite an increase in volumes from previous months, global container demand remains down year on year.
Just as the threat of strikes at US West Coast ports was averted after a deal was signed, a new twist in port labour relations has jumped to the fore. The Canadian chapter of the ILWU went on strike in July, disrupting imports through the ports of Prince Rupert and Vancouver and a considerable slice of the US market.
Stausbøll adds: ‘Low import volumes and space at some ports allowed shippers and carriers to mitigate delays and find alternatives when the Canadian ports were temporarily closed, but this situation is yet another thorn in the side for the industry at a crucial time leading up to peak season.’
World's largest container ship, MSC MICHEL CAPPELLINI, named at 800-guest event in Bremerhaven
More than 800 guests gathered in late July in a custom-made tent at the MSC Gate Terminal in Bremerhaven to witness the naming ceremony of the latest edition to Mediterranean Shipping Company’s (MSC) fleet, MSC MICHEL CAPPELLINI, with the ship as backdrop.
Prior to the naming ceremony, MSC signed a Memorandum of Understanding with the Free and Hanseatic Cities of Bremen and Hamburg and their ports (pictured), agreeing on the use of shore power for MSC’s vessels in both ports.
MSC MICHEL CAPPELLINI is one of the world’s largest and most fuel-efficient container ships by design. At 400 metres in length and with a 61.5 metre beam, it has a capacity of up to 24,346 TEU with the design and technical specifications enabling shipment of more cargo at the lowest carbon footprint per container carried.
The vessel employs a small bulbous bow, large diameter propellers and energy-saving ducts, which will help to further reduce fuel consumption and associated greenhouse gas emissions.
MSC MICHEL CAPPELLINI and her sister ships are also built with an air lubrication system to reduce drag on the hull, as well as shaft generators to yield additional power.
In his welcome speech, MSC CEO Soren Toft highlighted the importance of Bremerhaven to MSC as a European cargo hub: “The ports in Bremen are such an important cargo hub for us in Germany and in Northwest Europe. It is truly a strategic location for MSC, and home to over 370 of our colleagues.
:However, our connection with Germany goes deeper than trade. This is the third naming ceremony of an MSC vessel since 2015, and the second in Bremerhaven. It is therefore by no surprise that we continue to grow with our customers in Germany.”
Soren continued: “Efficiency and innovation are two drivers that led to the development of the MSC MICHEL CAPPELLINI. Through innovation we seek to shift the boundaries of what is possible and surpass our own industry-breaking milestones, a process of continuous evolution. Both, as a family company and as the leader of our industry, we are very mindful of MSC’s key role in decarbonizing the logistics value chain, and the benchmark we set for others in our industry.”
MSC Germany Managing Director Nils Kahn also highlighted the importance of the ports of Bremen as an MSC location: “We handle more than 1 Mio TEU per year here and run dedicated trains to and from many domestic locations. We are connecting the world from exactly this location with a weekly service to the Eastern Mediterranean, two weekly services to the Far East, three weekly services to South America and Mexico and an impressive five weekly services to North America.”
The ship’s blessing was conducted by Provost Dr. Bernhard Stecker, who has led the Catholic Community Association Bremen since 2019 and is the head of the Catholic Office in Bremen, the liaison office of the Catholic Church to the Bremen Senate and the Bremen Parliament in the state. After the blessing, Godmother Cindy-Jo Cappellini performed the christening of the ship by cutting the ribbon and smashing a bottle of champagne against the hull.
Yellow confetti streamed down, the ship’s horns sounded and MSC MICHEL CAPPELLINI can now travel the world’s oceans.
Shortly before the naming ceremony started, Kai Stuehrenberg, State Secretary for Economic Affairs of the Free Hanseatic City of Bremen, Andreas Dressel, Senator for Finance of the Free and Hanseatic City of Hamburg and MSC CEO Soren Toft met for the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) agreeing on the use of shore power for MSC container vessels in both ports.
Soren Toft said: “I am particularly proud that we signed a Memorandum of Understanding between MSC, the Free and Hanseatic Cities of Bremen and Hamburg, and their port administrations, to partner and collaborate on the implementation of shore power taking us one step closer to ensuring a decarbonized supply chain for global trade.”
MSC Germany Managing Director Nils Kahn also called on German authorities in Berlin to ensure closer collaboration between German ports on the topic of infrastructure development, citing the MoU signed between MSC and the port authorities as an example of what private-public partnership means for MSC.
Additional speeches were given by Kai Stuehrenberg, State Secretary for Economic Affairs of the Free Hanseatic City of Bremen, Andreas Dressel, Senator for Finance of the Free and Hanseatic City of Hamburg.
The naming ceremony highlighted MSC’s commitment to sustainability, sports and the arts. It was moderated by German TV presenter Jule Gölsdorf, who introduced Boris Herrmann, Germany’s leading yachtsman, world record holder and skipper of sailing team Team Malizia. Boris Herrmann shared his experience from the recent Ocean Race. MSC is a sponsor of Team Malizia and one of the six Official Founding Partners. In front of the 800-guest crowd Boris expressed his gratitude for MSC’s sponsorship and dedication to net zero commitments.
Guests included representatives of local authorities and businesses, customers and journalists. They enjoyed a spectacular performance by Andrea Casta, the famous Italian crossover electric violinist, and Sarah Voss, Germany’s artistic gymnast, all-around national champion and bronze medal winner in the team competition at the 2022 European Championships. The live music and the acrobatic gymnastic performance expressed the very concept of balance between progress and sustainability, humans and nature, present and past.
MSC CEO Soren Toft concluded: “Global trade is crucial for maintaining peace, economic development and growth, and we are serving as a neutral force in the face of the political and diplomatic adversity we see today. Our new 24,000 TEUs-class ships, some of the world’s largest currently on the water, are essential for facilitating and enabling effective global trade. Ultimately connecting cultures, people and continents.”
Death in confined spaces – a hidden danger: TT Club
International freight transport insurer TT Club is seeking to draw attention to the life-threatening hazards caused by enclosed and confined spaces prevalent throughout the global supply chain. Toxic gases produced by some cargoes as well as leakages, residual fumigants and other causes of a reduced oxygen environment are the chief problems, with 60% of fatalities suffered by would be rescuers.
Confined or enclosed spaces are common in the supply chain industry. Such spaces exist across all freight modalities; from tank containers to cargo hold stairwells and holds, to road tankers and sealed cargo units. A lack of understanding of the danger present may have fatal consequences.
Without sufficient oxygen the human body starts to shut down very quickly. Any rescue operations are therefore time critical. The primary cause of reduced oxygen levels is the increased presence of other gases, such as carbon dioxide. This may arise from rusting of the ship's structure or metal cargoes, oxidation of cargoes such as coal or the decomposition of biodegradable cargoes, for example fish meal, logs, bark, or wood pellets. All these lead to carbon dioxide - and potentially other gases - being released, simultaneously depleting the oxygen. Other associated hazards include flammable or toxic vapours from leaking cargoes or leaking pipes or hoses.
Peregrine Storrs-Fox, Risk Management Director at TT Club explains that a lack of awareness of these, often hidden dangers is surprisingly high. “The key risk is that workers may not readily recognise spaces that could present danger,” he states. “The cargo hold of a ship is a leading example, but containers and other cargo transport units pose similar risks; there may be a lack of knowledge of the cargo packed or whether fumigants have been used. Similarly, tanks units, whether a road barrel or tank container, certainly qualify as enclosed spaces.”
The speed with which the effects of oxygen depletion can become debilitating require thorough and regular communication to ensure that operatives understand the risks. When entering a lethal space there are no obvious red flags. In terms of symptoms there are no warning signs such as coughing or feeling breathless or nauseous. An individual can pass out without having the opportunity to raise an alarm or escape.
The quick onset and catastrophic nature of these symptoms often leads to others rushing to the aid of the casualty, unaware of the reason for their collapse. Statistically, over 60% of fatalities connected to confined and enclosed spaces are suffered by would be rescuers.
“The silent and invisible nature of this killer emphasises the importance of raising awareness of the risk,” stresses Storrs-Fox. “Developing and undertaking drills to practice rescues are crucial steps in mitigating the risks, as are a number of other strategies including risk assessments of working in potentially hazardous spaces, discouraging short cuts in work practices and testing, monitoring and venting air in confined areas.”
While not exhaustive, TT has developed a checklist of risk mitigation strategies that can be applied across all modes, whether on land or at sea.
Carrier Transicold Container Refrigeration launches BluEdge Partner Program for Lynx and Telematics
Carrier Transicold has launched the BluEdge Partner Program – a new global reseller partner channel providing unparalleled distribution of its refrigerated container telematics products and services. Carrier Transicold is part of Carrier Global Corporation (NYSE: CARR), global leader in intelligent climate and energy solutions.
Through the reseller channel, Carrier Transicold will establish a global network of BluEdge Partners, expanding its capacity and distribution reach. The channel will be authorized to sell, install and commission a full suite of the latest telematics technologies, including Carrier’s Lynx™ digital platform, which offers end-to-end supply chain visibility, real-time monitoring, actionable insights and analytics, and improved sustainability for the refrigerated container segment.
“The launch of our BluEdge Partner Program represents a key milestone in Carrier Transicold’s foray into the refrigerated container aftermarket telematics space,” said Tan Bor Yow, Senior Channel Manager, BluEdge, Global Container Refrigeration, Carrier Transicold. “We are building a network of reseller partners in each geographical region and training and equipping them with industry-leading remote refrigeration monitoring products to serve this growing segment.”
The new channel will distribute and resell Carrier’s telematics solutions – including Lynx Fleet hardware, software and professional services for refrigerated units, and BluEdge Partners will be appointed to service customers and potential prospects from shipping lines, static rentals, as well as ports and terminal operators, with Carrier’s telematics solutions.
“Every touchpoint along the cold chain will benefit from Carrier’s telematics offerings, as they will have immediate operational expenditure reductions, enhanced asset visibility and improved safety operating environments,” said Tan.
PSA innovates with OptETruck, a green and digital solution for Singapore’s haulier sector
As part of efforts to further digitalise and decarbonise the container trucking industry, PSA Singapore (PSA), with the support of Enterprise Singapore, has developed OptETruck, a proprietary cloud-based transport management solution which uses artificial intelligence (AI) to facilitate smarter trip planning and eliminate operational inefficiencies for the haulier community in Singapore. It will help hauliers improve asset utilisation, reduce carbon emissions, as well as optimise operating costs.
One key feature of OptETruck is automated scheduling, which is enabled by a real-time resource-matching algorithm and predictive modelling to maximise resource utilisation. With this, OptETruck can match and recommend jobs so that hauliers are able to reduce the number of empty trips made across various supply chain nodes.
Another important feature of OptETruck is asset pooling. This feature enables hauliers and their partners to share resources, allowing them to optimise their fleet and trips.
Multiple haulier companies have already onboarded OptETruck and with the two key features, they have been able to reduce empty truck trips by over 50%. This translates to an annual reduction of about 10 million kg of CO2 emissions, which is equivalent to 300,000 trees planted in a year.
Recently, OptETruck received the Digital Achievers (Team) award at the Tech Leader Awards 2023, a testament to PSA’s commitment in digital transformation to co-create agile, resilient, and sustainable supply chains with our partners and stakeholders.
OptETruck, together with PSA’s two other digital solutions - *SmartBooking™ and iBOX™ - will beintegrated to form an intelligent logistics ecosystem to digitally connect container terminals, depots, hauliers, and logistics facilities in Singapore.
Ms Seow Hwee, Head of Port+ Business, PSA Southeast Asia, said: “OptETruck and the full suite of digital solutions will strengthen and bring about a smarter and more sustainable supply chain and logistics ecosystem in Singapore. Harnessing the support from our partners and stakeholders, PSA seeks to proliferate these innovative digital capabilities to the small and medium-sized enterprises, which will elevate the competitiveness of the haulage community, drive greater business agility, and aid them to achieve their sustainability targets.”
Hapag-Lloyd successfully completes acquisition of SM SAAM terminal business
Hapag-Lloyd announces it has successfully completed its 100 % acquisition of SM SAAM’s terminal business and related logistics services, which is based on an agreement announced in October 2022. The transaction was approved unconditionally by the relevant antitrust authorities of all countries involved in this acquisition process.
“We are very pleased about the successful completion of this transaction, which significantly increases our footprint in Latin America and underlines our commitment to the Latin American markets,” said Rolf Habben Jansen, CEO of Hapag-Lloyd AG. ‘Looking ahead, we will focus on further developing the business and on continuing to offer the best quality to all of SAAM Terminals’ customers.”
Investing in terminal infrastructure is a key element of Hapag-Lloyd’s strategic agenda, and Latin America is one of its key markets. The transaction includes interests in terminals in Iquique, Antofagasta, San Antonio, San Vicente and Corral (Chile), Port Everglades (United States / Florida), Mazatlán (Mexico), Buenavista (Colombia), Guayaquil (Ecuador) and Caldera (Costa Rica) as well as related logistics services. The acquisition will further strengthen Hapag-Lloyd’s core liner shipping business and help the carrier to build up a robust and attractive terminal portfolio.
The new entity will be led by its CEO, Mauricio Carrasco, who has been Managing Director for the Terminals Division within the SAAM Group since 2020. Mauricio Carrasco is an experienced senior executive with long-standing experience in Latin America and globally. He has served as Senior Vice President of Development at CSAV and as Senior Director at Hapag-Lloyd, with responsibilities in the Americas, China, Dubai, and India. Rodolfo Díaz, former Senior Director Business Administration Region Latin America at Hapag-Lloyd, will join him as CFO.
Hapag-Lloyd has continuously expanded its involvement in the terminal sector and holds stakes in the Container Terminal Wilhelmshaven, the Container Terminal Altenwerder in Hamburg, the Italy-based Spinelli Group, the India-based J M Baxi Ports & Logistics Limited, Terminal TC3 in Tangier, and Terminal 2 in Damietta, Egypt, which is currently under construction.
Sailors’ Society gives North Asian cadets the full virtual conference
Global maritime welfare charity Sailors’ Society is holding its third Wellness at Sea Maritime Schools’ Conference in North Asia - but this year there is even more for cadets to see and do with a new virtual conference centre.
It is the first of four 2023 conferences, taking place online next Monday (August 7), and will deliver a full virtual experience from a lobby and auditorium to interactive sessions and even a virtual space mimicking the physical stands found at trade shows and exhibitions.
The conference, sponsored by Seaspan and NorthStandard P&I, will explore the all-important subject of wellness and mental health with a focus on key and current issues facing today’s seafarers including diversity.
As well as practical advice on how to get their first job, the cadets will hear presentations from key industry leaders and influencers, including Capt. Tushar Pradhan, General Secretary, Maritime Union of India and Mariana Noceti, from the Women in Maritime Programme, at the IMO.
Sailors’ Society CEO, Sara Baade, said: “These conferences build on the success of previous events, but this year we have partnered with FrontM to deliver a full virtual experience to our cadets.
“We know that cadets are tomorrow’s workforce and future industry leaders, so these unique events are a must for any maritime student, giving them the tools and knowledge to help manage their wellbeing as they prepare for a career at sea.”
Belinda Ward, Director (claims) at NorthStandard said: “North Asia is recognised as being one of the world’s leading areas in the supply of highly committed, highly trained and highly expert crew and NorthStandard are very excited to have been invited to sponsor this Cadet Conference and to meet the elite crew of tomorrow.”
Captain Manoj Gandhi, Country Head & Director Seaspan Crew Management India said: “These conferences give us the opportunity to meet and educate future seafarers while they are still cadets. It allows us to help inform their mindset at the very start of their careers about issues such as wellness and diversity. Issues which are as important to Seaspan as they are to the cadets.”
In 2022, more than 5,000 cadets attended Sailors’ Society’s virtual conferences in India, the Philippines and Africa, with more than 95 per cent saying they should form a key element in their syllabus.
This year, the virtual conference programme continues with South East Asia on September 23, Africa on October 12 and, for the first time, the UK’s maritime colleges on November 9.
RINA tells LISW23’s London Interviews: Shipping sectors must work together to meet industry challenges
Maritime sectors must work together to enable the shipping industry to meet the challenges it faces over the coming years and to develop a greener and more sustainable future.
Speaking in the first of a series of video interviews for London International Shipping Week 2023 (LISW23), Pino Spadafora (pictured), Senior Director, Global Marine Commercial & Strategy, for classification society RINA, pointed out that LISW23 provides “an incredible platform” for shipping executives to share experiences.
Highlighting the importance of engaging with fellow shipping industry colleagues across many sectors, Mr Spadafora said: “We have to work together, there is no solo approach.”
Class societies are at the forefront of shipping’s development to meet its challenges. In the 20-minute talk for ‘London Interviews’, Mr Spadafora discussed a number of shipping concerns with LISW co-founder Sean Moloney.
He outlined how RINA is acting as an integrator to bring together industry colleagues from throughout shipping and taking a holistic approach encompassing information sharing. He also advised of the usefulness of gaining inspiration from best practices in other business sectors such as aviation.
The London Interviews video series is available on the LISW23 website here: https://londoninternationalshippingweek.com/london-interviews/
Urgent review of STCW fire safety training needed after Fremantle Highway blaze, says Stream Marine Training
Leading safety maritime training provider Stream Marine Training has called for an urgent need for updated fire safety training following the death of a seafarer in the Fremantle Highway blaze last week.
The cargo ship carrying nearly 3,000 vehicles has been ablaze since it caught fire last Tuesday evening (pictured). Although the cause of the fire is still unknown, it is believed it could have been started from one of the electric vehicles the ship was carrying.
The 199-metre Panama-registered Fremantle Highway was on route from Germany to Egypt, and the blaze tragically resulted in the death of one crew member, with several others left with injuries.
Stream Marine Training, part of the Stream Marine Group, runs several safety training courses on battery and fuel cells and construction and battery fire, and it has been a leading industry voice on the dangers of battery fires and the threat they pose to both the safety of vessels and crew.
Tony in’t Hout, Director at Stream Marine Training, said: “The number of fires caused by electric transportation is growing rapidly, and this is an industry challenge that Stream Marine takes very seriously and believes is a growing risk to the industry.
“To hear a seafarer sadly lost his life in the devastating Fremantle Highway fire is extremely sad and out thoughts are with their family, friends and crewmates at this time. While it is important to note that the cause of the fire is still unknown, it is widely believed that an electric vehicle could be the cause.
“Fires caused by batteries requires different firefighting action than a normal fire. The current STCW training only covers traditional fires, so as a matter of urgency this needs to be looked at.
“A review of the STCW training is due to be carried out in 2025 but we would urge the IMO to carry this out as soon as possible. One death Is one too many and we cannot afford to wait for something catastrophic to happen before we take action.”
WFW advises lenders on US$1bn financing for 45 vessels
Watson Farley & Williams (WFW) has advised BNP Paribas as documentation bank and DNB Bank ASA, New York Branch as agent on a US$1bn term and revolving credit facility to Scorpio Tankers. The over-subscribed credit facility provided by a group of banks will be used to finance 45 product tankers.
Consisting of a 50% term loan and a 50% revolving loan, the credit facility has a final maturity of 30 June 2028.
Scorpio Tankers is a leading product tanker owner providing marine transportation for refined petroleum products and is a global leader in responsible marine transportation. The company’s fleet consists of 112 wholly owned, finance leased or bareboat chartered-in tankers.
The WFW London Assets and Structured Finance team that advised the syndicate was led by Partner Emily Widdrington, supported by Senior Associate Elizabeth Ilett, Associate Lottie Lymer and Trainees Teresa McGillivray, Jack Oldbury and Ellen Mackie.
Emily commented: “It was a pleasure to advise the lenders on this important transaction for Scorpio Tankers, which highlights our expertise advising on big ticket financings in the maritime space”.
Partner Michael O’Donnell added: “We are pleased to have been involved in supporting many of our long- standing clients who were part of this syndicate of lenders.”
Saudi Global Ports welcomes largest vessel to call at the Eastern Province of Saudi Arabia
In late July, King Abdulaziz Port Dammam (KAPD) and Saudi Global Ports (SGP) celebrated the arrival of Hapag Lloyd’s Berlin Express, the largest container vessel to call at the Eastern Province of Saudi Arabia. At almost 400m long with a width of 61m, the Berlin Express is amongst the largest container vessels globally with a nominal capacity of 23,664 TEUs. It is also Hapag Lloyd’s first LNG dual-fuel ultra-large containership.
The arrival of Berlin Express at KAPD re-affirms the value of SGP’s decision to invest in a future-ready and globally competitive container terminal from the start of its development works in 2012. Berlin Express berthed at SGP’s Terminal 2 which has a handling capacity of 1.08 mil TEUs with 6 Quay Cranes (“QC”) and 18 Rubber Tyre Gantry Cranes (RTG) that allows it to adequately handle mega vessels.
SGP also put supply chain integration and efficiency at the forefront of its operations through the collaboration with PSA Singapore to block stow containers bound for Riyadh Dry Port (RDP) at its port of loading in Singapore. This collaboration allowed SGP to offload the RDP-bound containers at KAPD efficiently to connect them expeditiously onto the rail, increasing the reliability and attractiveness of intermodal movements in the Kingdom.
Berlin Express’ maiden voyage to Dammam brought over 9,000 TEUs into King Abdulaziz Port and is part of the AG3 service connecting the growing economies in Asia (Singapore, Hong Kong, South Korea, and China) with the Middle East (UAE, Oman, and Saudi Arabia).
UN Office on Drugs and Crime counters maritime crime with simulation software
Tackling drug and contraband trafficking around the complex coastlines of Southeast Asian countries requires skilled personnel to be well-trained in maritime surveillance. With such unpredictable scenarios, simulation provides the perfect tool to allow operators to learn from previous events.
The Global Maritime Crime Programme of the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC-GMCP) Regional Office for Southeast Asia and the Pacific delivers maritime domain awareness (MDA) training to surveillance centre personnel of maritime law enforcement agencies such as Coast Guard Agencies. This training includes detection of anomalous behaviour of vessels of interest. To demonstrate realistic scenarios as well as potential future ones during training sessions, GMCP procured Cambridge Pixel’s SPx Radar Simulator and RadarView display software.
SPx Radar Simulator allows the instructor to create target motion profiles for a scenario representing, for example, smugglers trying to evade detection amongst regular vessel traffic.
To show the resultant radar video and target data in a typical, high-performance radar operator application, UNODC-GMCP uses Cambridge Pixel’s RadarView display software as a training display. RadarView displays maps overlaid with radar video, tracks and AIS targets, in this case generated by SPx Radar Simulator, which can also feed to third party applications on the network in open formats such as ASTERIX.
David Johnson, managing director of Cambridge Pixel, said: “We are extremely proud to be supporting efforts of the Global Maritime Crime Programme (GMCP) of UNODC to counter illicit activity at sea in the Southeast Asian region. We look forward to further opportunities to cooperate with the UN agencies to improve maritime law enforcement at sea.”
Veson Nautical and GeoServe collaborate to advance port disbursement workflows
Veson Nautical (Veson) has announced a collaboration with GeoServe. The integration will connect the Veson IMOS Platform (VIP) and GeoConnect, GeoServe’s port disbursement accounting platform, to help streamline, optimize, and seamlessly manage port disbursement workflows and synchronize port cost data.
GeoConnect aims to revolutionize the perception of port disbursement handling by transforming this value-added service into an active contributor in reducing the bottom line. Annually managing over 6,500 port calls and processing over $300 million dollars in port payments, GeoConnect harnesses the power of experienced maritime professionals, time tested processes, and service innovation to help ship owners and operators achieve their port objectives with ease.
For mutual clients who opt in, this integration provides the ability to seamlessly leverage GeoConnect’s proprietary application capabilities to make data driven decisions that both improve vessel turnaround time at port and manage port cost data. Users can also send port DA requests from VIP to GeoConnect as well as nominate agents directly from VIP.
By incorporating port and disbursement information into broader operational workflows, the VIP – GeoConnect integration allows mutual clients to streamline engagements with local port agencies, driving time and cost savings.
Graham Piasecki (pictured, left), Director of Commercial Strategy, commented on the product partnership: “A crucial factor in the efficiency and profitability of a maritime organization’s voyage operations is the quality of their disbursement accounting processes. However, traditional paper-based disbursement accounting involves complex communications chains and requires a heavy amount of administrative work, leaving considerable room for error. Creating a smooth experience at port starts with streamlined access to vital port and disbursement information, which is where the VIP – GeoConnect integration can help.”
Sanjay Kapoor (right), CEO at GeoServe said: “Building an ecosystem of digital solutions in a dynamic maritime landscape is only possible through collaboration. GeoServe’s proprietary application capabilities, coupled with Veson's industry-leading solutions, will empower mutual clients to digitalize their workflows, and make data-driven decisions for increased operational efficiency.
This partnership is a testament to our shared vision of innovation and excellence in the maritime industry.
“Together, we are helping our clients navigate port operations, leveraging the power of technology and experienced maritime professionals to achieve their port objectives with ease.”
Global demand for offshore wind farms drives significant Osbit growth
Leading North East England engineering company Osbit Ltd has recruited 26 new employees to support its offshore wind projects.
The company, which develops large-scale equipment used to construct offshore wind farms, has taken on new employees across the business. The intake consists of 11 Osbit engineers, three support staff, and one health, safety, security, environment and quality (HSSEQ), two draughting apprentices, a new commercial and contracts specialist, and a total of eight student placements, with more to be confirmed.
Osbit’s surge in recruitment is imperative to meet the growing needs of its projects, which are in turn driven by the global acceleration in constructing offshore wind farms.
Many of the new starters have already started working at Osbit’s Riding Mill head office since the start of the year, supporting the delivery of technology to enable offshore wind turbine foundation installation and the lifting and handling of large-scale structures. The other news appointees are set to join over the next few months.
These appointments are part of Osbit’s ongoing recruitment strategy, and the business is still actively looking to recruit more engineers. The company’s expansion, which also includes setting up and operating US and Netherlands entities, is part of its overall growth strategy and plays an integral part in the wider Venterra Group vision, in line with the recruitment ambitions of its fellow member companies.
Osbit Joint Managing Director Brendon Hayward said: “We’re delighted to welcome so many promising individuals into Osbit’s workforce as we continue to strive towards ours and Venterra Group’s ambitious growth strategy.
“We offer an unparalleled opportunity to make a difference in the world of offshore engineering and renewables, and I hope that our new employees will enjoy a remarkable journey of growth and achievement within the business. Our strength lies in our people, and we’re continuing our search for exceptional engineering talent.”
One of the company’s new joiners, Osbit Engineer Scott Murray, added: “My first few weeks with Osbit have been great; from day one I was given a specific part of a project to work on and I’ve enjoyed taking on that responsibility. The personal freedom and ownership you’re given when working within a project team is fantastic.”
MSC joins SEA-LNG as latest coalition member
SEA-LNG, the multi-sector industry coalition established to demonstrate the benefits of the LNG pathway as a route to shipping’s decarbonisation, today welcomes MSC Mediterranean Shipping Company, the world-leading shipping company, as its latest member.
In recent years, MSC Mediterranean Shipping Company has made investments in LNG-fuelled vessels in the different sectors it operates within. In 2022 MSC saw its first five newbuilding dual-fuel LNG capable container vessels in operation. MSC is committed to maintaining a modern fleet that will advance progress towards net zero decarbonisation by replacing conventional fuel vessels with dual-fuel capable vessels in the short term, including those fuelled by LNG. In the cruise sector, the company has launched MSC World Europa and MSC Euribia, whose maiden voyage was powered by bio-LNG.
Bud Darr, Executive Vice President, Maritime Policy & Government Affairs MSC Group, said: “We are committed to catalyzing the development, accessibility and uptake of net zero fuels and believe we have found another excellent partner to help continue to drive the industry in this direction. We look forward to working with SEA-LNG to further assess and collaborate on the exciting long-term prospects of bio-LNG, and particularly renewable synthetic LNG, as mainstream marine fuel molecules.
“In alignment with our net zero commitments by 2050, we view fossil-based LNG as a fuel in transition, and fully expect bio and renewable synthetic LNG to be a key part of our longer-term multi-fuel strategy for deploying net zero fuels.”
As the world’s largest ocean carrier, MSC endeavours to be a steward of the world’s oceans and has invested substantially in ship design, cutting-edge technologies and digital applications to improve energy efficiency. The company continues to focus on improving energy efficiency and is taking actions today to properly support meeting its target of complete net decarbonisation by 2050.
MSC is actively exploring a range of alternative fuels and propulsion solutions that will help the business move even closer towards net zero, and the vessel operator sees cross-industry collaboration as crucial to scaling these solutions for the maritime industry. MSC expects to operate its vessels on a range of fuel options in the future, particularly looking at those that might become available at scale within a small number of years. MSC is also an active partner and member of the Methane Abatement in Maritime Innovation Initiative (MAMII) and the Society for Gas as a Marine Fuel (SGMF).
Peter Keller, Chairman of SEA-LNG, commented: "As one of the world's leading shipping companies, MSC's decision to work with our coalition of companies across the LNG value chain demonstrates its confidence in the LNG pathway as a viable solution for flexibly advancing shipping along its decarbonization journey.”
Keller further emphasised the advantages of LNG, stating: “LNG is available at scale for deep sea shipping today. Existing LNG infrastructure can accommodate bio-LNG and renewable synthetic LNG as they become increasingly accessible, lowering investment barriers. Waiting is not an option; the LNG pathway offers immediate decarbonization benefits and a route to net-zero shipping.”
The SEA-LNG coalition spans the entire shipping value chain and remains committed to sharing and developing credible, fact-based analysis of the LNG pathway.
Portsmouth Sail Training Trust announced as Charity Partner
An inspirational charity dedicated to motivating young people to reach their full potential, Portsmouth Sail Training Trust, has been announced as Maritime UK Solent's Charity Partner for 2023/24.
Dedicated to raising the aspirations of disadvantaged young people through maritime training, Portsmouth Sail Training Trust will be at the heart of the prestigious Maritime UK Solent Awards 2023 event, to be held on Thursday 5 October at the iconic Portsmouth Historic Dockyard.
The Portsmouth Sail Training Trust (PSTT) provides maritime training, qualifications, and invaluable mentoring to disadvantaged young people. The exceptional charity aims to support young people impacted by multi-generational unemployment and social deprivation by raising their self-esteem and broadening their horizons.
PSTT’s Founding Trustee, Ed Philips, said: “All of us at Portsmouth Sail Training Trust are absolutely thrilled to have been chosen to be Maritime UK Solent’s Charity Partner 2023/24. It is a real honour for us and a fantastic opportunity to raise our profile during the year ahead.
“PSTT’s mission is to help raise aspirations for disadvantaged young people through maritime training. Every year we work with 120 young people from across Portsmouth, enabling them to gain qualifications and develop skills which will have a positive impact on their lives and future careers. Our hope is that they will become confident and capable individuals who have the potential to work in the diverse maritime sector found right on their doorstep.
“We look forward to making new connections, building partnerships with the community and businesses. Together, we will help young people raise their aspirations through maritime training.”
Maritime UK Solent will work with Portsmouth Sail Training Trust throughout the year to raise awareness of the valuable work undertaken by the charity.
Anne-Marie Mountifield, Chair of Maritime UK Solent, said: “We’re delighted to welcome this motivational organisation on board as the Maritime UK Solent charity partner for the year. We look forward to supporting and raising awareness of their work, helping them to expand their operations which improve and widen opportunities for young people living in our coastal communities."
Maersk posts ‘robust’ Q2 results despite year-on-year decrease
A.P. Moller - Maersk (Maersk) reports what it calls robust Q2 financial results, as volume and rate trends unfolded as expected. The pace of revenue decline moderated as rates continued to come off their 2022 peak , it says, while volumes remained weak due to continued destocking particularly in North America and Europe.
Revenue decreased by USD 8.7bn year-on-year to USD 13.0bn (USD 21.7bn) in Q2 2023, with a decrease in Ocean by USD 8.7bn, in Logistics & Services by USD 116m and in Terminals by USD 174m.
Maersk says it continues to expect muted global macro-economic growth given continued pressure from higher interest rates and potential recessionary risk in Europe and the US. Given the weak start of the year and the continued destocking, It now sees the global container volume growth in the range of -4% to -1% compared to -2.5% to +0.5% previously.
Maersk CEO Vincent Clerc, stated: “The Q2 result contributed to a strong first half of the year, where we responded to sharp changes in market conditions prompted by destocking and subdued growth environment following the pandemic fueled years. Our decisive actions on cost containment together with our contract portfolio cushioned some of the effects of this market normalisation.
“Cost focus will continue to play a central role in dealing with a subdued market outlook that we expect to continue until end year. While we step this agenda further up, we are unwavering in our transformation and continue to invest in and deliver truly integrated logistics solutions to our customers and amplify their supply chain resilience for the uncertain times ahead.”
Fondo Italiano d'Investimento enters agreement to acquire minority stake in RINA
Registro Italiano Navale, Fondo Italiano d’Investimento and RINA S.p.A have announced a new agreement aimed to allow the Italian fund to become a shareholder in RINA, based in Genoa, Italy.
The deal is expected to be completed in the autumn of 2023 and will involve an injection of up to 180 million euros in capital in the form of equity. After the deal’s completion, the ownership structure will see Registro Italiano Navale maintaining the majority stake, Fondo Italiano d’Investimento and other co-investors holding a minority stake of up to 33%, and the company's management participating with a 2.5% stake.
In 2022, RINA reported pro-forma revenues of over 700 million euros, and it is on track to achieve growth objectives of nearly 800 million euros in 2023.
The Chairman and CEO of RINA, Ugo Salerno (pictured), commented: “We have found the most suitable partner in Fondo Italiano d’Investimento to share our growth path and the realization of ambitious goals we have worldwide. It is a high-level institutional partner, Italian like us, with whom we will embark on a new phase for RINA and who will allow us to fully implement our strategic plan.
“Based on ESG principles, we will continue to expand our digital services and processes in favour of ecological transition: a journey that involves significant investments, made possible also thanks to the commitment of Fondo Italiano d'Investimento.”
Davide Bertone, CEO of Fondo Italiano d’Investimento, said: “Today, we announce the first closing and, at the same time, the first investment of the second edition of FICC, our flagship fund dedicated to promoting the development of national and global champions in strategic sectors of the Made in Italy. RINA represents Italian excellence, with a global presence, and leadership, as well as significant ambitions for further growth and innovation not only in the shipping sector but also in the energy transition and infrastructure sectors.
“I am extremely pleased with the partnership we are entering into today and the trust given to us by Registro Italiano Navale and Engineer Ugo Salerno, with whom we are delighted to collaborate in building another phase of development.”
The completion of the transaction is subject to customary conditions, including regulatory approvals.
Cooperation Agreement between Cyprus Shipping Chamber and University of Cyprus
In the context of further strengthening the cooperation between the two organizations, the Cyprus Shipping Chamber signed a Cooperation Agreement with the University of Cyprus, on Friday 4 August 2023.
The signing ceremony took place at the Chamber's offices in Limassol between the President of the Cyprus Shipping Chamber, Mr. Themis Papadopoulos (pictured, right), and the Rector of the University of Cyprus, Dr. Tasos Christofides (left).
The Agreement formalises the cooperation between the two organisations in areas of common interest and aims to facilitate the further strengthening of the existing excellent cooperation.
With the signing of the Agreement, the two parties formally agreed to cooperate in areas such as Students’ Practical Orientation Learning Experience, Training and Education in Shipping Related Courses, Research & Development activities, Information Exchange & Knowledge Sharing, and joint public relations activities for the benefit of both the University and Cyprus Shipping.
GTMaritime whitepaper explores shipping's opportunities and challenges on LEO network integration
GTMaritime, expert in secure maritime data communications solutions, has released a new whitepaper that assesses the impact Low Earth Orbit (LEO) networks are having on the maritime industry and key considerations for wider adoption.
Available to download free of charge, Opportunities and Challenges: Introducing New LEO Networks to the Maritime Industry, offers an insightful overview of commercial shipping’s first movers in LEO network service use. It outlines the potential for positive impact of LEO network bandwidth on vessel operations and describes a “quantum leap for crew connectivity possibilities”.
However, the thoughtful paper also explores the challenges of integrating LEO network services that do not offer global coverage into shipping’s existing global connectivity infrastructure. In a tightly regulated industry, it also gives due consideration to the fact that existing networks support mandatory GMDSS connectivity.
Richard White (pictured), Global Commercial Director at GTMaritime, said: “The introduction of LEO networks is a massive step forward for maritime communications and connectivity. The expectations are understandably high, as is the interest around how the addition of these constellations could transform maritime communications for the better. However, it’s important to recognise that LEO networks on their own would struggle to sustain the communication demands of modern shipping and that a more realistic approach focusing on integration with current infrastructure and solutions is required.”
Key sections of the new whitepaper consider the connectivity and cyber security imperatives, if LEO networks are to be integrated with existing solutions, highlighting how vessels must have systems in place to prevent disruption when switching between satellites or providers. The paper concludes with specific questions that need answering when considering the use of LEO networks and offers guidance on issues including the risks of bandwidth reduction and the benefits of data compression.
“Our new whitepaper offers insights into the challenges and opportunities faced by owners and operators as they assess whether and how to use LEO networks as part of their ship-to-shore connectivity. To help them in their considerations, it provides straightforward guidance on the critical issues affecting ship operations, crew connectivity and systems interoperability,” added Richard.
Edison Chouest and Chartwell Marine to build US offshore wind’s first mini-CTV
US offshore vessel operator, builder and owner Edison Chouest Offshore (ECO) has launched construction of the US offshore wind industry’s first ever mini-crew transfer vessel (CTV), designed by Chartwell Marine (Chartwell), trusted UK pioneer of next-generation vessel design.
Set to begin operating in summer 2024 for the global and US offshore wind leader Ørsted and their US-based joint venture partner, Eversource Energy, the CTV will simultaneously accompany the launch of ECO Edison (pictured), the first ever American-built service operation vessel (SOV) announced in April this year. This so-called ‘daughter craft’ onboard the SOV can be deployed to efficiently manoeuvre crew across the Revolution Wind, South Fork Wind, and Sunrise Wind offshore wind farms in the Northeast US, under development by the joint venture.
Building commenced in July 2023 at Edison Chouest’s Louisiana shipyard, drawing components from US suppliers, and using Chartwell’s innovative design from its expanded range of offshore wind support catamarans — which has seen orders from across Europe, Asia, and the USA. ECO will manage the entire pipeline of construction and operation, supported by the incentives provided by the Inflation Reduction Act.
Chartwell’s design responds to the increasing demand in the US offshore wind market for low-emissions, cost-effective support vessels, with the catamaran’s optimised hull form offering efficient fuel use as well as stability and manoeuvrability in choppy waters. A first for this vessel type, the Volvo Penta IPS (integrated propulsion system) provides high power and performance as well as onboard comfort for operators. The system allows for a wide number of optional features and functions, featuring forward-facing, twin counter-rotating propellers with an individually steerable IPS under the hull.
The 12-metre mini-CTV has a capacity of up to 12 personnel and is designed to be conveniently deployed from ECO Edison during extended offshore stays, offering key staff comfortable and efficient access to turbines, vessels, and other critical project infrastructure.
Working closely with Ørsted throughout the design process, Chartwell conducted model testing in January 2023 to simulate and adapt to the specifications of the wind turbines that
will be installed at the Northeast US project sites. Considerations were made to facilitate Ørsted’s Get Up Safe system, which is a motion-compensated hoist solution that enables technicians to safely transfer between small moving vessels and offshore wind turbines without a ladder.
Andy Page, Managing Director of Chartwell, said: “This vessel is the small but essential chain connecting SOVs and turbines together. Engineers need to safely transition from larger vessels to turbines quickly and safely, and we set out to design an agile and streamlined vessel that has both bases covered.
“But it’s not a one-size-fits-all — turbines come in different configurations, with different requirements for effective crew transfer. That’s why we collaborated with Ørsted to thoroughly test and tweak our design to the joint venture portfolio’s particular needs. We’re grateful for their collaboration and honoured to have our design be the first out on US waters servicing the renewables industry, and with Edison Chouest at the helm, no less.”
Michael Braid, Vice President of Renewables at ECO, said: “ECO Edison needed to have the perfect partner on launch, and Chartwell has crafted her. As we look to further expand our fleet and activate it across a growing number of offshore wind projects, maintaining the efficiency of our transfers and our high level of technical availability will be key. Diversifying the range of vessels we use is one of the ways we can achieve that, but making sure they’re best-in-class is equally important.”
Mikkel Mæhlisen, Head of US Operations for Ørsted, said: “This vessel is yet another example that American offshore wind energy is providing economic opportunity and creating jobs across the US. Working with Chartwell and Edison Chouest to deliver an innovative design that accommodates Ørsted’s Get Up Safe system, the vessel represents the ingenuity of businesses in the maritime space to supply cutting-edge, purpose-built offshore wind vessels for safe and efficient operations offshore. This partnership is an innovative collaboration, one ready to serve the future growth of the American offshore wind industry.”
“We are proud to partner with Edison Chouest and Chartwell Marine to accelerate the transformation to a new clean energy future,” said Mike Ausere, Vice President of Business Development at Eversource Energy. “These vessels represent the incredible power of offshore wind to create American jobs in the industries of the future, deliver clean, renewable energy, and establish a US-based supply chain that will benefit workers and communities for generations yet to come.”
Infineum appoints World Fuel Services as global distributor for its Marine Fuel Additives
Specialty chemicals company Infineum announces that they have entered into a strategic agreement with World Fuel Services. Effective immediately, World Fuel Services will act as global distributor for Infineum’s Marine Fuel Additives product line.
On announcing the agreement, Andrea Ghione, Marine Venture Manager at Infineum commented: “At Infineum our purpose is to create a sustainable future through innovative chemistry. Our Marine Fuel Additives portfolio is designed to deliver fuel efficiency, GHG emissions reduction and onboard operability solutions to the shipping industry.
“This collaboration with World Fuel Services will support the industry’s decarbonisation efforts, and we are confident that the partnership will deliver outstanding quality and exceptional customer service. Customers will also benefit from a strong logistics footprint starting in Singapore and expanding to ports around the world.”
Mark Tamsitt, Senior Vice President, Marine at World Fuel Services, said: “This is an important agreement that will be beneficial to maritime customers by expanding the availability of Infineum’s Marine Fuel Additives product range. Both companies share the same commitment to sustainability and to decarbonised shipping operations. We are, therefore, extremely pleased to enter into this agreement and look forward to a close working relationship.”
Seafarers face uphill battle as Happiness Index shows continued decline in Q2 2023
The Mission to Seafarers has published the latest Seafarers Happiness Index (SHI) report for Quarter 2, 2023, revealing a notable decline in overall happiness. The survey, conducted in association with NorthStandard and Idwal, supported by Inmarsat, measures the wellbeing of seafarers worldwide through ten key questions about their work and life. The latest report shows an overall fall in seafarer happiness from 7.1/10 to 6.77/10, compared to Q1 2023.
In Q2 2023 (April to June), happiness levels declined across all question areas, with the most significant drops observed in general crew happiness, shore leave, and workload, showing an approximate 8% decrease. Average seafarer happiness levels have now declined from a high of 7.69/10 in Q4 2022 to 7.1/10 in Q1 2023, and now 6.77/10 in Q2. In another marked contrast to previous years, happiness levels have not risen over the course of the calendar year.
In this reporting period, seafarers expressed their struggles at not yet seeing working and living conditions fully return to pre-pandemic standards, particularly in areas such as crew changes, time spent on board, wages, and shore leave. Other key issues raised by respondents included unmanageable workloads, limited internet access, and inadequate gym facilities.
The COVID-19 pandemic exposed significant challenges for seafarers, including crew change delays, extended time on board, and declining wages, leading to worsened working conditions. Despite emerging from the pandemic, returning to pre-COVID conditions for seafarers has been difficult, causing frustration among those who work at sea.
A major concern was the shortage of available drinking water. This requires immediate attention, as it was a common problem from those responding to the survey, despite this being explicitly covered by the Maritime Labour Convention (MLC).
Rising global food prices have also impacted seafarers, with low company meal budgets and expense cuts leading to insufficient food supplies, sometimes for periods of up to 2-3 weeks.
Seafarers face limited opportunities for shore leave due to ongoing restrictions and company policies, negatively affecting mental health, job satisfaction, and welfare, leading to boredom, frustration, and low morale. Shockingly, some respondents have never experienced shore leave in their careers. Calls for standardised protocols and more shore leave opportunities persist. This issue needs to be addressed to provide seafarers with opportunities for rejuvenation and recreational activities ashore.
The lack of work-life balance and violations of work and rest hours are also common concerns, violating the MLC's provisions. In addition, seafarers are concerned about their wages, with some reportedly being paid only once during their time on board, with subsequent periods considered "gaining experience" without payment, akin to modern slavery. Stagnation of wages in some companies over 15 years led to a significant discrepancy between compensation and workload. This underscores the need for fair and timely adjustments to wages, reflecting the true value of their contributions to the industry.
In conclusion, the Quarter 2 2023 Seafarers Happiness Index report shows that seafarers are facing significant challenges, leading to further decline in their satisfaction with work and life at sea. Improving their wellbeing requires addressing these issues.
The Revd Canon Andrew Wright, Secretary General of The Mission to Seafarers, said: "The Seafarers Happiness Index is a vital resource that allows us to gain invaluable insights into the wellbeing of seafarers and the evolving challenges they face. We are grateful to all seafarers who participated in the survey and shared their experiences, which helps us advocate for meaningful changes on the issues that matter most to them.
“It is extremely disappointing to read of contracts being altered or disregarded, leading to payment issues, salary cuts, rising taxes, and increased living costs, as well as such fundamental requirements such as good quality meals, access to shore leave and manageable workloads. All seafarers are fully entitled to expect fair compensation for their hard work, dedication and commitment to keeping international shipping moving. It is incumbent upon all of us to address these issues and make the improvements required to enhance seafarers' working conditions, wellbeing and job satisfaction."
Thom Herbert, Idwal Senior Marine Surveyor and Crew Welfare Advocate, commented: "We at Idwal are deeply concerned by the findings of The Mission to Seafarers' Q2 2023 Seafarers Happiness Index report, which highlights the continued decline in overall happiness among seafarers worldwide. Struggles with working and living conditions, crew changes, time spent on board, wages, and shore leave are particularly disheartening. Issues like unmanageable workloads, limited internet access, and inadequate gym facilities further exacerbate hardship but we are particularly troubled to hear of a lack of available drinking water. All these findings underscore the urgent need for industry-wide efforts to improve the wellbeing of seafarers.”
Capt. Yves Vandenborn, Head of Loss Prevention Asia-Pacific at NorthStandard, added: “NorthStandard is concerned about the frustrations voiced by seafarers as the Seafarers Happiness Index has fallen for a second consecutive time in 2023. The report spotlights issues in areas such as crew changes, stagnant wages, increased workloads, and limited access to shore leave. Happiness levels falling across all categories signals a sustained drop in positivity and the responses from seafarers paint a worrying snapshot of the conditions they are experiencing. The club will continue to raise awareness of the key issues in a bid to enhance seafarers’ working conditions, overall wellbeing, and satisfaction within the maritime industry.”
The Mission to Seafarers, together with industry partners, is committed to using the Seafarers Happiness Index as a crucial tool to highlight seafarers' challenges and improve their welfare. A recent Executive Roundtable on Crew Welfare, held during Singapore Maritime Week 2023, brought together industry leaders, ship owners, managers, and charterers to identify effective solutions for seafarers' challenges and well-being.
The next phase of the initiative will take place during London International Shipping Week in September 2023, where further progress will be made in transforming feedback into concrete action.
ONE hosts 2nd Container Shipping Summit: ‘Charting a Sustainable Future for Container Shipping’
Ocean Network Express (ONE) hosted the 2nd Container Shipping Summit in Singapore on 3 August 2023, in collaboration with Anchor Ship Partners and KOZO KEIKAKU ENGINEERING. The summit brought together industry experts and academic leaders to find breakthrough solutions to the pressing challenges in the container shipping industry.
The event commenced with an opening address by Jeremy Nixon (pictured, front row, third from right), CEO of ONE, who said: “ONE's core business is to move containers safely, efficiently, and with the lowest carbon intensity in the world. To achieve this, we need the support of many business entities and partners. Today, we are bringing together public and private sectors, academia, and industry to share best practices and work together to address the challenges we face. Together, we hope to advance collaboration with all stakeholders for the benefit of not just ONE, but the entire industry.”
Guest of Honour, Senior Parliamentary Secretary (SPS) for Transport Mr. Baey Yam Keng, in his opening remarks thanked ONE for its contributions to Maritime Singapore over the years, particularly in supporting the nation’s digitalPORT@SG, cybersecurity initiatives, and championing the development of maritime talent through internship and talent management programmes.
SPS Baey outlined three areas Singapore’s Ministry of Transport saw for the maritime industry to flourish in the age of disruption – decarbonisation, innovation and talent management – and noted that ONE played a strategic role in enabling collaboration among stakeholders to seize opportunities and overcome future challenges in the sector.
Guest of Honour, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of Japan to Singapore, His Excellency Hiroshi Ishikawa stated during his opening speech, “I am convinced that action and cooperation between Japan and Singapore will make a significant leap forward in the shipping industry in the future.”
The summit featured several panel discussions on various topics including research and development in terminals and ports, advancements in ship technologies, maximising the potential of container shipping supply chains, and enhancing ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) measurement in container shipping. The summit explored ways to nurture maritime talent as well.
Prominent maritime stakeholders such as the Global Centre for Maritime Decarbonisation (GCMD), PSA International, Singapore Maritime Foundation (SMF), and distinguished researchers from renowned institutions like Kobe University, Kyushu University, Nanyang Technological University (NTU), National University of Singapore (NUS), Singapore Management University (SMU), Takushoku University, The University of Tokyo, and Tokyo University of Marine Science and Technology participated in the panel discussions.
Danelec accelerates data-driven green transition with appointment of SVP for Digital Business
Danish company Danelec has appointed Christian Treu as Senior Vice President of the DanelecConnect & IoT Business. Christian brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to further advance Danelec's mission to deliver essential digital infrastructure that enables more efficient, greener marine operations by optimizing the acquisition and availability of High Quality, High-Frequency (HQHF) vessel and fleet data.
Joining from marine technology company ZeroNorth, Christian’s passion for data transparency and its impact on decision-making perfectly aligns with Danelec's commitment to unlocking access to quality-controlled data to reduce Greenhouse Gas (GHG) emissions and fuel consumption, while optimizing diverse operations. Christian is responsible for Danelec’s digital business and IoT initiatives, with a focus on sustainable vessel and cloud solutions for the new generation of digital applications that demand HQHF data to enable the maritime industry’s green transition.
Commenting on his appointment, Christian said, "I am looking forward to being part of an organization at the forefront of digitalization. Danelec is well-known in the market for deploying cutting-edge technology as the foundation for dependable and feature-rich infrastructure. This resonates well with my own vision of making the maritime industry more efficient and sustainable via easy and cost-effective access to actionable HQHF data."
Danelec, a company renowned for its maritime digital solutions and focus on the provision of validated, HQHF data, continues to invest in the DanelecConnect & IoT Business, in order to strengthen its longstanding position as a leading maritime digitalization services provider. Christian’s extensive industry knowledge will support the creation of new digital products that underpin Danelec’s overriding objective to enhance and advance digital solutions that effectively address the challenging demands of tomorrow's shipping industry, especially in the context of meeting essential new GHG emissions targets in the coming decades.
"We are delighted to welcome Christian to the Danelec family," says Casper Jensen, CEO at Danelec. "His strong track record and passion for driving sustainable change align perfectly with our vision for the future of the maritime industry. We are confident that Christian's strategic mindset, combined with his experience and leadership abilities, will play a pivotal role in accelerating our efforts to make the maritime industry safer and more sustainable through data-driven IoT solutions."
ITIC’s substantial surpluses during FY 2022/23 a great benefit to members
International Transport Intermediaries Club (ITIC) financial results announcement has revealed a substantial surplus in 2022/23. Now in its 31st year, ITIC, and its mutual reinsurer TIMIA, returned a US$ 8.1m surplus for the year to 31st May 2023 ( FY 2022/23) after paying US$ 14.5m in continuity credit. This follows the US$ 14.2m credit paid in the previous year.
Continuity credit is paid to renewing members and effectively reduces the cost of insurance. ITIC’s board, at its meeting in March 2023, reviewed the level of ITIC’s free reserves and concluded they are strong and well above the amount required for ITIC’s solvency purposes. The board therefore decided that, notwithstanding the high inflationary environment and continued volatility in the investment markets, they would pay a continuity credit for the 29th consecutive year for all renewals in the 2023/24 year.
The ITIC board considers the payment of continuity credits to be a significant benefit of mutual insurance coverage. Since the continuity credit payments began 28 years ago, more than US$ 190.0m has been returned to its members.
The risk for all claims up to US$ 1.0m continues to be retained by ITIC, as well as an additional two retentions above the primary US$ 1.0m level and one retention excess of US$ 2.0m. ITIC is comfortable that the reinsurance in place reduces the risks of large claims to an acceptable level at a reasonable cost.
ITIC’s total annual premium increased in 2022/23 by 4.4%, and ITIC has had four good years of growth. In past years, the total premium has remained static largely because of consolidation in the transport services market.
Commenting on last year’s financial figures, ITIC’s Chairman, Jeff Woyda (pictured), said: “ITIC continues to retain approximately 96% of its members at renewal each year – a reasonable retention rate and an indication of how highly our members view the quality of service and cover given. Also, I am pleased to advise that the combined free reserves of ITIC and TIMIA have increased from US$ 221.9m on 31st May 2022 to US$ 230.0m on 31st May 2023.
“The insurance, claims, contractual advice and practical help that we can provide through our staff in London to members, advisers, brokers and introducers worldwide continue to set us apart,” Woyda said.
The company is also expanding beyond London for the first time with the establishment of a subsidiary company in Cyprus. International Transport Intermediaries Insurance Company (Europe) Ltd (“ITIICE”), will open later this year (2023) and ITIC will underwrite its EEA business through this subsidiary.
Woyda said: “The new structure will enable ITIC to be less reliant on third-party fronting arrangements, whilst members and brokers will continue to enjoy the same high level of service to which you have become accustomed.”
He added: “Most of you will know ITIC as an insurer of risks in the marine sector; however, ITIC has also provided cover to aviation professionals, for several years. This is a market in which the board sees strong growth potential, and to this end, you can expect to see more activity from the managers as, with the board’s support, they look to grow this sector of ITIC’s business.”
ITIC covers companies whose services include aircraft lease and operational management, continuous airworthiness management, charter broking, design and surveying/inspection services.
Woyda said: “ITIC is committed to consistently providing competitively priced professional indemnity insurance (and related insurance cover) with valuable, high-quality loss prevention advice to businesses servicing the marine, aviation, and general transport industry through a mutual insurance company supported by at least “A-” rated security from its external reinsurers.
“The focus will continue to be on maintaining strong reserves and providing quality service and sound risk management advice by a highly competent staff,”he concluded.
ICS membership continues to grow with Association of Panamanian Shipowners joining
The Association of Panamanian Shipowners (ARPA) has become an associate member of the International Chamber of Shipping (ICS).
Launched in 2020, ARPA was created by shipowners and operators of vessels to strengthen Panama’s shipping industry by offering quality support, professionalism, credibility, and active contribution to the social economic and environmental improvement of the country.
This membership will build on the relationships across the maritime sector as the industry continues to work together to find solutions to collective issues including piracy, seafarer welfare and training, digitisation, automation, and decarbonisation.
The ICS already enjoys a strong relationship with Panama’s maritime stakeholders. The ICS has a long-term relationship with the Panama Canal Authority (ACP), regularly liaising with the ACP to communicate the consensus position of the global shipping industry and ensure that the interests of shipping are properly addressed in policy areas related to shipping canals.
At COP27 last November, the government of Panama signed up to the Clean Energy Marine Hubs initiative. The initiative was formally launched on 20 July 2023 at the 14th Clean Energy Ministerial in Goa. Co-led by a taskforce of CEOs, the initiative is a cross-sectoral public-private initiative aiming to accelerate the production, export and import of low-carbon fuels across the world.
Guy Platten, Secretary General of the International Chamber of Shipping, said: “I am delighted to welcome the Association of Panamanian Shipowners to associate ICS membership. We all know that our challenges are bigger than any one country, shipowner, or national member association, and as such we must collaborate to achieve our joint goals.
“The Association of Panamanian Shipowners’ associate membership of ICS will help us to build on the great relationships we already have with Panama’s shipping industry. I look forward to working together to further our important work, from decarbonisation to digitisation, seafarer training and much more.”
Jose Digeronimo, Executive Director of the Association of Panamanian Shipowners, said: “This is a big step for the Association of Panamanian Shipowners to become part of the International Chamber of Shipping that will help to ensure that Panama’s maritime sector keeps growing in a sustainable way. We expect that this membership will open communications channels between shipowners and member associations in the country that holds one of the largest and leading ship registries in the world, and will also benefit shipowners globally.”
OceanScore’s ESG solution and sustainability data platfom score highly with new investors
OceanScore has brought onboard a group of high-profile investors to fund development of new data-driven tools intended to assist shipping players in navigating regulatory complexity towards compliance.
The Hamburg-based technology developer and data provider for the maritime industry, launched in 2020, has built a digital platform that monitors the performance of the entire global fleet of 109,000 commercial vessels, enabling diverse industry stakeholders to benchmark ship operations against sustainability goals.
The AI-powered platform uses proprietary engineering algorithms and advanced regression models to analyse data from multiple sources, comprehensively tracking emissions (CO2, SOx, NOx and PM) as well as reporting a further 50 ESG scores around vessel safety and reliability, environmental performance and adherence to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
This data provides a sound basis for decision-making for ship managers, cargo owners, ports, banks, investors, insurers, P&I clubs and other stakeholders. The platform is also designed to facilitate collaboration and data-sharing among industry players, providing a single source of verified data visible to all parties for tracking vessel and ship managers’ sustainability.
OceanScore has now attracted an impressive line-up of investors after completing an oversubscribed seed funding round, with global container shipping giant MSC as well as P. Döhle, the Schoeller family (shareholders in Columbia Shipmanagement and Scope Ratings), TecPier and Israel’s theDOCK committing capital for expansion of the platform.
“We are delighted with the level of investment interest in OceanScore after detailed scrutiny by these highly reputable investors. Their investments represent a firm vindication of our potential and the quality of our data, solutions and capabilities, while also providing a strong foundation for further growth,” said OceanScore’s Co-Managing Director Albrecht Grell (pictured, left).
Expanding ESG reporting requirements and new environmental regulations, such as the implementation of the EU Emissions Trading System (EU ETS) for shipping from 2024, have resulted in greater complexity for the industry, according to Co-Managing Director Ralf Garrn (pictured, right).
“Our team combines decades in shipping with deep engineering and data science competence. We bring that to bear when building solutions to support shipping in its transition to net-zero,” he said.
Based on its unique pool of sustainability data, OceanScore has developed a solution to help shipping manage the upcoming challenges surrounding the EU ETS that is quickly gaining traction with European shipping customers and will be expanded based on evolving market requirements.
Explaining the rationale for their investment, MSC’s Group President Diego Aponte said: “In addition to our massive investment in lower-carbon technologies and fuels, MSC continues to focus on improving energy efficiency. We have decided to leverage OceanScore to provide better visibility on the environmental and broader sustainability performance of ships in our fleet. We will encourage our customers, charter tonnage providers and other stakeholders to join MSC in this initiative.”
New investor theDOCK’s Nir Gartzman said: “OceanScore’s analyses are predicated on advanced data science and deep engineering expertise to provide effective decision-support tools to optimise sustainable fleet management. This gives us a high level of confidence in its solution.”
OceanScore has taken a collaborative approach by working with top maritime companies to develop its digital tools as well as gain access to granular emissions data for model calibration.
Besides generating superior quality sustainability data, OceanScore is working with Scope Ratings, Europe’s leading ratings agency, to provide independent validation of its scores – part of the platform’s transparency policy.
Grell said: “Our investors provide us with further, unparalleled collaboration opportunities and we are delighted at the potential these offer to further expand our innovative platform.”
Latest speakers announced for LISW23 Headline Conference
The organisers of London International Shipping Week are delighted to confirm the latest speakers taking part in the LISW23 Headline Conference.
The new speakers include: Stanko Jekov, Managing Partner & Global Head of Dry Cargo at Simpson Spence Young (SSY); Arsenio Dominguez, Director Marine Environment Division at the IMO; Kulsoom Jafri, Lead Campaigner Seafarers & Inland Navigation at the International Transport Workers’ Federation (ITF); Charis Plakantonaki, Chief Strategy Officer at Star Bulk Carriers Corp; and Michael Parker, Chairman Global Shipping, Logistics & Offshore at Citi.
The conference, entitled ‘Reframing Risk in a Complex Marketplace’, brings together the leading voices in our sector to debate crucial industry issues including diversity, decarbonisation and how the contractual and risk sharing agenda can evolve in such a way that cooperation and collaboration form the cornerstones of strategy.
Sean Moloney, LISW Co-Founder, said: “These new speakers will extend the breadth of experience on offer at the Headline Conference. The maritime industry will appreciate the high calibre of the conference speakers who will generate knowledgeable and in-depth discussion of some of the most important aspects of the wider shipping industry. We are very much looking forward to connecting with everyone at the IMO.”
London International Shipping Week 2023, which this year celebrates its 10 Year Anniversary, will bring together shipping industry leaders from across the entire maritime sector and showcase all that London and the UK have to offer in relation to trade, shipping sectors, ports, and associated services such as finance, law, insurance, broking etc.
This year’s week-long in-person LISW23 is on schedule to be the biggest and best yet and will feature a 1,500 seat Gala Dinner on the Thursday evening at the riverside Evolution London, a spectacular venue in Battersea Park, with - for the first time - an after party into the ‘wee small hours’.
Conference tickets are now on sale via the LISW23 website: https://londoninternationalshippingweek.com/ticket-registration/
LISW23 will be held in the week of September 11-15, 2023 and will host the international maritime community, with hundreds of events attracting thousands of international industry decision makers into London during the week. The LISW23 Headline Conference will be held on Wednesday September 13th, and the LISW23 Gala Dinner will be held on Thursday September 14th.
MHSS offers free support to victims of marine disasters
The recent fire on board a cargo vessel reportedly carrying just under 3,000 vehicles including 350 electric cars is a timely reminder that the dangers faced by seafarers are not always caused by external factors but can frequently come from the cargo in the hold.
Managing potentially hazardous cargo adds to the stress faced by crew on a daily basis, particularly when something inert spontaneously combusts. This continual awareness of danger can take its toll on everyone working at sea according to Charles Watkins (pictured), Founder and CEO of Mental Health Support Solutions (MHSS), a company dedicated to supporting the mental health and wellbeing of seafarers.
“We work with ship managers and owners to support their crew, helping them to build mental resilience and providing additional care for seafarers who are in further need or in crisis. But when it comes to situations like that found on the Fremantle Highway, we are always happy to provide free support to any seafarer who feels the need to talk to someone.”
As he explains, the type of stress that can result from extreme danger may build up in such a way that the person experiencing it is unaware, especially if they have had no prior training about its effects on the mind and body. Furthermore, the sleep deprivation that is frequently experienced at these times can lead to physical and mental exhaustion, in turn resulting in a decrease in focus and attention.
Another contributor to stress in hazardous situations is if seafarers feel that the training they have received is inadequate or that the technical gear and safety equipment is insufficient, if that is the case they may hold back or underperform when it matters the most, particularly if the team is not working well together.
To avoid the risk of mariners developing PTSD related symptoms after a life-threatening situation such as an onboard fire, it is important that they regularly receive quality training and receive mental health care after the event. Otherwise there is the potential for all these stressors to build up, causing the seafarer in question to break down or even quit shipping altogether – not good for the seafarer and also detrimental to the industry as a whole.
“In these situations the after-care we offer can help the seafarer to work through any unexpected symptoms of post-traumatic stress and other challenging feelings that may accompany the aftermath of traumatic experiences at sea. We hope to not only aid them in dealing with the current situation but also prepare them to face any future challenges that may come their way.”
MHSS employs a wide range of different clinical therapists from copious regions around the world. This allows them to offer individualised solutions ranging from behavioural interventions to psychoeducation about integrating body and mind into the recovery process.
KVH Joins ISWAN showing worldwide commitment to seafarer welfare
KVH is proud to announce its membership in ISWAN (The International Seafarers’ Welfare and Assistance Network). ISWAN is committed to improving the welfare of seafarers around the world, and KVH will contribute to its mission with a continued focus on innovative technology, services, and content that enhance crew wellbeing.
“Connectivity is crucial for seafarers to stay in touch with loved ones on shore, manage personal affairs, enjoy music and movies to minimize stress, and bond with shipmates over long voyages,” states Chris Watson, Vice President of Marketing and Communications at KVH. “Seafarers keep the world moving. They spend extended periods of time away from loved ones, working long hours in difficult conditions, and we depend on them to deliver the essentials of everyday life. KVH’s technology, services, crew content, and ongoing efforts to support seafarers and the maritime community are a good fit for ISWAN’s mission. We look forward to partnering with ISWAN on initiatives for the good of seafarers everywhere.”
In addition to offering groundbreaking hardware that ensures crews are always connected, KVH employs a dedicated team focused on the technology, writing, and editing of content. The material is constantly refreshed to ensure crew have the very best in information and entertainment. The KVH Link service features hundreds of news stories, movies, TV shows, music radio and karaoke, social videos, sporting events and stats, and documentaries. Content is tailored to diverse crew populations in more than 20 languages to keep seafarers engaged and in touch with home. KVH Link content is perfect for crew gatherings such as movie or karaoke nights to meet the important need of crew bonding onboard commercial vessels.
“KVH has a wealth of experience in developing products and services to enhance crew welfare,” states Alan Croft, Business Development Manager at ISWAN. “We’re excited to welcome KVH as an ISWAN member and believe the organization will be instrumental in enabling shipping companies to evaluate their practices, put actionable processes and technology in place, and ensure crew welfare is the priority it needs to be.”
VIKAND appointed as Adora Cruises healthcare partner
Global healthcare specialist VIKAND has been appointed onboard healthcare provider for Adora Cruises. This collaboration means that each Adora ship will have a robust healthcare system in place for both passengers and crew, including onboard medical professionals, state-of-the-art facilities, remote support and more.
With experience managing 4,100 daily medical encounters worldwide, VIKAND works proactively to decrease health risks and improve the onboard environment leading to less disembarkations and healthier guests and crew as a result.
The company’s maritime healthcare systems and services have made it a leading provider of medicine and public health at sea. This includes procurement, installation, training and support for advanced biomedical equipment that is critical to onboard healthcare.
“We’re very pleased to be part of Adora Cruises launch and being actively engaged with the growing and important Chinese cruise industry,” said Peter Hult, CEO of VIKAND. “We provide proactive, high-quality healthcare services to over 220 cruise vessels worldwide and look forward to working closely with Adora Cruises’ onboard teams.”
VIKAND was chosen to run Adora Cruises’ healthcare operations because of its experience managing medical teams in complex maritime environments. The company’s uniquely proactive approach to crew and passenger health is designed to prevent injury and illness, and to holistically support human wellness at sea through world-class care.
A healthy environment for both workers and guests is fundamental to a successful cruise experience. That’s why VIKAND is working closely with Adora’s management team to support their operational and business goals.
“We always invest in the best. Adora Cruises is committed to offering best experiences to our Chinese and international guests.” said Ranfeng Chen, Managing Director of Adora Cruises Limited. “We trust that the partnership with VIKAND is key to providing the best healthcare services and solutions to our guests and crew members whose well-beings we care about most.”
Adora Cruises is dedicated to providing guests with premium cruise experiences. Adora Magic City, the first Chinese-built large cruise ship, is scheduled to set sail at the end of 2023. Mediterranea, another cruise ship in Adora fleet, is also expected to serve the Chinese market in the fourth quarter of 2023.
VIKAND will manage Adora Cruises’ onboard medical facilities, including operational standards and procedures, biomedical requirements, pharmacy needs, medical staffing and more, for a total healthcare solution that rivals any shoreside operation.
Nuclear power’s role in shipping’s decarbonisation journey explored in first LISW23 'London Talks' video
Nuclear solutions will play an essential role in maritime’s fast-paced journey towards decarbonisation and net zero, said Mikal Bøe, Chairman and CEO of CORE POWER. “It simply will not happen without it,” he stated.
Speaking in the first of a series of London Talks video presentations for London International Shipping Week 2023 (LISW23), Mr Bøe highlighted the limitations inherent in current alternative sources of fuel and advised that today’s ‘new’ nuclear power offers a safer, cleaner, affordable and viable solution to enable shipping to meet its green goals.
Mr Bøe, who has more than 30 years’ experience in technology, finance, transport and commodities, commented that the realisation that the world is likely to exceed 1.5 degrees of warming and will not reach net zero by 2050 is “a defining milestone in the chaotic nature of our energy transition" which has shocked the public and green energy markets.
“There is clear evidence of weather-dependent power generation’s inevitable failure to meet capacity targets and provide a low cost base,” he said, pointing out that intermittent power sources require a backup to cover power demand when capacity is not met. This is 80% in the case of solar power and 60% for wind, he said. And he highlighted that, when energy density is taken into account, fuels such as ammonia and methanol will need to be burned in twice the amount as oil and will produce twice as much waste, while nuclear power can generate four million times more power than these potential maritime alternative fuel sources.
“Every capesize bulker powered by new nuclear will prevent 1.5m tonnes of CO2 from being emitted in dry cargo transportation. Multiply by the fleet and the impact is substantial,” he said.
In his video presentation, which is available on the LISW23 website (click here), Mr Bøe presents the case for modern nuclear power which he describes as “distinctly different” to conventional nuclear power. He explained that concerns regarding the safety, and insurance of nuclear-powered vessels are being addressed and new nuclear technology is being developed to meet the criteria needed to operate safely in offshore, near-shore and in-port environments. He highlights a range of potential uses including green shipping corridors, desalination, powering synthetic fuel production, and recharging electric port technology.
“We need to think differently because the future cannot look the same as it does today,” he emphasised.
LISW23 will be held in the week of September 11-15, 2023 and will host the international maritime community, with hundreds of events attracting thousands of international industry decision makers into London during the week. The LISW23 Headline Conference will be held on Wednesday September 13th, and the LISW23 Gala Dinner will be held on Thursday September 14th.
For further information and bookings please visit the website: www.londoninternationalshippingweek.com
Peninsula chooses Windward to enhance trade compliance
Maritime AI™ company Windward announces that global independent marine energy supplier Peninsula, the global leading independent supplier of marine energy, has selected Windward to enhance their existing compliance processes by improving screening and due diligence procedures with AI-driven insights, empowering them to conduct more business, with confidence in an increasingly complex regulatory landscape.
The ongoing Russia-Ukraine war has precipitated the introduction of new regulations by the Western world. Most recently the EU Commission announced its 11th package of sanctions which, for the first time, allows ports to deny entry to vessels utilizing deceptive shipping tactics to circumvent sanctions. As such, counterparty due diligence has become a necessity for any stakeholder in the maritime trade industry to ensure they aren’t conducting business with bad actors.
Embracing technology is one of Peninsula’s core pillars and in the world of bunker trading and supply, when decisions need to be made within minutes, Windward provides dynamic compliance feedback, which has a significant impact on decision making processes.
Windward’s Maritime AI insights will be integrated directly into Peninsula’s compliance processes via API, providing legal and risk functions with a bottom-line risk score and flagged risk indicators for all vessels they are associated with. These valuable insights enable users to make go/no-go decisions with fewer false positives, allowing them to maximize efficiency and conduct more business.
“As global regulations and sanctions become increasingly complex, it is essential for stakeholders to stay ahead of the curve so they can conduct more business with greater confidence,” said Ami Daniel (pictured), Co-Founder and CEO of Windward. “In line with this trend, we are seeing a growing number of companies across the industry turning to our Maritime AI to make better, faster, and more informed decisions, and help them mitigate risk effectively.
“With our Maritime AI solution, Peninsula's legal and risk teams will be able to bolster their existing compliance programs with unparalleled insights into vessel activity, ownership structures, and company risks in real-time, providing them a holistic and accurate view of maritime risk, and enabling them to navigate the turbulent trade environment with ease. This will enhance their day-to-day operations.”
Windward’s Maritime AI platform is powered by advanced machine learning and behavioral analytics models, providing customers with insights into vessel behaviors, ownership structures, and company risks, and predicting in real-time which companies and vessels are likely to be high risk. The company’s behavioral models and risk indicators are constantly updated in line with new regulations and behavioral patterns, ensuring that customers are always one step ahead. Windward’s solutions enable companies across the maritime trade industry to streamline business operations.
“Peninsula has always taken sanctions compliance very seriously, although bunkering is currently “out of scope” of the 11th EU sanctions package, our conservative approach to sanctions risk as well as its own self-sanctioning led us on an extensive search for the most effective technology enhancement to our existing procedure,” said Alex Jamet, General Counsel of Peninsula.
“Windward stood out as the clear best in class solution to provide us with a thorough and accurate view of maritime risk. Their advanced technology, comprehensive data coverage, and robust analytics capabilities empower our risk functions to make prudent, accurate decisions to rapidly support our global commercial teams.”
OCIMF’s transition to digitalised tanker inspections gathers pace
The Oil Companies International Marine Forum (OCIMF) has successfully completed the first phase of the ‘four-phased’ roll-out and testing of the digitalised tanker inspection regime, SIRE 2.0, which will replace all existing SIRE inspections for tankers. Phase 2 of the transition is now underway, with invited programme users testing the entire end-to-end SIRE 2.0 inspection process with minimal support from the OCIMF Secretariat.
SIRE inspections are widely used by the marine industry to assess vessel safety and operational performance. As a digitalised inspection programme, SIRE 2.0 transforms the way inspections are carried out, with OCIMF-accredited inspectors completing a bespoke risk-based inspection questionnaire (CVIQ) using a tablet device rather than a static paper questionnaire. This means no two inspections will be the same and vessel operators and crew must be prepared to respond to any question within the SIRE 2.0 Question Library.
SIRE 2.0 also has an increased focus on assessing the human element, an ability for vessel operators as well as inspectors to submit photographic and documentary evidence and introduces the ability for inspectors to highlight how crews have exceeded expectations.
Aaron Cooper, Programmes Director, OCIMF, said: “We are transitioning to SIRE 2.0 over several phases as we recognise that moving to a digitalised regime with new processes and procedures is a significant change for industry and it needs to be done very carefully.
“Phase 1 – where a limited number of invited parties conducted SIRE 2.0 inspections with the support of our project team – was a great success overall and we have been able to gather crucial feedback and recommendations from participants. Phase two, which is now underway, sees a greater number of participants involved and conducting SIRE 2.0 inspections, this time without our support, so we can really interrogate how user-friendly the system is and – of course – collect feedback and opinions through the Suggestions for Improvement function within SIRE 2.0 and in our follow-up sessions.”
OCIMF has been actively engaging with industry through industry engagements and training sessions and is urging all programme participants to ensure they are fully familiarised with all documentation relating to SIRE 2.0. The organisation stressed that all parties involved in a tanker inspection, including Captains and crew, should be familiarised using the training resources provided by OCIMF and available to industry here. Particular attention should be paid to the document SIRE 2.0 Conditions of Participation, Policies and Procedures, available here.
“It is imperative that, when the time comes, all users of the programme take the opportunity to participate in phase three – when all programme users will have the opportunity to conduct a SIRE 2.0 inspection to test their own readiness. When SIRE 2.0 does fully ‘go-live’ at phase four, the existing system, VIQ7, will be withdrawn. Operators, programme participants and recipients really should take the opportunity to test their readiness before SIRE 2.0 becomes the commercial tool. They need to be preparing and familiarising themselves with all of the materials now.” Cooper added.
All companies engaged in the SIRE programme will be provided with ample notice before Phase 3 is activated. Phase 3 will provide all programme participants with the opportunity to conduct SIRE 2.0 inspections for familiarisation and testing purposes, however VIQ7 will still be used as the commercial inspection programme throughout Phase 3.
More phase-specific information will be provided to all programme participants in the coming weeks through the existing SIRE programme portal.
European law Verein ADVANT opens new office in Genoa
European law firm association ADVANT announces it has expanded to a 15th location globally, in Genoa, Italy. ADVANT Nctm’s presence in Genoa will significantly strengthen the firm’s existing offerings and expertise in the field as well as on ancillary matters, including shipping-related insurance and finance.
“Our expansion into Genoa broadens our geographical presence within Italy and further demonstrates our commitment to delivering a superior client offering at ADVANT and bringing regional and international expertise and experience together,” said Paolo Montironi (pictured), Senior Partner at ADVANT Nctm.
“Genoa – the Italian shipping capital – has always been a landmark and reference point for maritime science and culture,” continued Montironi, “and coupled with the depth and breadth of our knowledge and the caliber of our professionals, we are able to provide our clients with a distinctly European competitive advantage.”
By joining ADVANT Nctm, Studio Legale Berlingieri, a boutique Italian law firm with a long-standing reputation in maritime law, strengthens and consolidates the status of ADVANT Nctm as market leader in the field.
“We are particularly pleased to become part of ADVANT Nctm and ADVANT more widely, as it enables us to face the challenges of the profession in step with technological development and globalization, allowing for further developments in the wake of the tradition and experience that has always distinguished us,” added Giorgio Berlingieri, Senior Partner at Studio Legale Berlingieri.
The announcement of ADVANT’s Genoa presence comes less than two years after its launch, and just months after a 16-strong team from Friedrich Graf von Westphalen joined ADVANT Beiten to establish a new location for ADVANT in Freiburg, Germany.
AMP signs agreement with maritime agency Ramsay Grieg for the benefit of Panamanian seafarers
To promote employment and training of Panamanian seafarers, the Panama Maritime Authority (AMP) has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with Ramsey Greig & Co. Ltd., a maritime agency that is part of the LOGISTEC GROUP, an operator of specialized services for the maritime community and industrial companies in the areas of break-bulk cargo handling and in containers in 60 ports and 90 terminals located in North America.
Ramsey Greig & Co. Ltd. has been a pioneering port agency since 1934, developing expertise in handling passenger ships as well as cargo and tankers. It provides a wide range of maritime services to cruise ships and mega-yachts in ports along the St. Lawrence River, the Great Lakes, Thunder Bay, Churchill, the Northwest Passage, the Arctic, and also in St. Pierre and Miquelon (France).
The MOU was signed during the visit of a Panamanian delegation to Canada, where direct meetings were held with important shipping companies to promote job opportunities for Panamanian officers, cadets and junior personnel.
New Managing Director for Svitzer Australia
Towage provider Svitzer, part of A.P. Moller-Maersk, has today announced changes to its Global Leadership Team. Chief Commercial Officer Videlina Georgieva has been promoted to Managing Director of Svitzer Australia, replacing outgoing MD Nicolaj Noes, who will be leaving Svitzer to take on a new opportunity.
Videlina Georgieva brings a deep understanding of Svitzer’s business and operations to the role, including within Australia, where she has been part of delivering significant commercial results throughout her 13 years with Svitzer, and most recently as the organisation’s Global Chief Commercial Officer. She has already begun a planned handover process with Nicolaj Noes and will commence her new role effective early September.
Svitzer CEO Kasper Friis Nilaus congratulated Videlina Georgieva on her appointment and said it was fantastic to be able to appoint internally for the role, reflecting the strong leadership talent within Svitzer: “Based in Sydney and with her long tenure and strong track record, Videlina is excellently placed to continue driving Svitzer’s strategic focus in Australia and Papua New Guinea. This includes continuing to unlock value for our customers, for instance through partnering with them on their decarbonisation agendas. We are also bringing innovative new assets and towage infrastructure such as our revolutionary new TRAnsverse tug to the region, which will help drive the future of towage in Australia.
“I am excited by Videlina’s appointment and confident that she will drive our Australian region to further success.”
Kasper Nilaus also expressed his thanks to Nicolaj Noes for his leadership of Svitzer Australia over the last five years and to the wider Maersk group over the last 30 years.
“Nicolaj has led Svitzer through significant change during his tenure and is held in high regard by colleagues, customers and stakeholders alike for his leadership. He leaves the business in a strong position and with a talented, experienced team in place across the region.”
Speaking on her appointment, Videlina Georgieva, Svitzer’s new Managing Director – Australia, commented: “I am delighted to be back with the team at Svitzer Australia and to be taking on this role in such an important market for our business. There is clear opportunity to create further value with and for our customers and communities in Australia and Papua New Guinea. We have an exciting platform to drive innovative, sustainable marine services and decarbonisation in partnership with our customers. The team here in Australia has the passion, experience and skills to achieve this, and I couldn’t be more thrilled to lead them at this time.”
Svitzer is in the process of recruiting a permanent successor to Videlina Georgieva’s role of CCO, to be announced in due course.
Record high deliveries boost boxfleet capacity by 4.3% in year-to-date
Deliveries of new container ships during the first seven months of the year reached a new record high of 1.2 million TEU in 2023, beating the previous record by 0.2 million TEU. “As recycling of ships has remained low, the fleet capacity has grown 4.3% since January,” says Niels Rasmussen (pictured), Chief Shipping Analyst at BIMCO.
The contracting of new ships has slowed since its record in 2021 but has year-to-date remained twice as high as during the 2010s. The 1.3 million TEU contracted so far this year has therefore kept the order book high, only 3,000 TEU short of the record 7.6 million TEU reached in March 2023.
The order book is in fact so large that ship deliveries are expected to exceed the previous full-year record of 1.7 million TEU three years in a row. Based on current estimated delivery dates, a total of 2.4, 2.9, and 1.9 million TEU are expected to be delivered in 2023, 2024 and 2025 respectively.
Recycling of ships is also expected to increase in the coming years. More energy efficient ships will replace less efficient ones as owners aim to reduce greenhouse gas emissions.
“Despite recycling of older ships, the fleet is still expected to grow by approximately 4.5 million TEU between early 2023 and early 2025, increasing the fleet capacity by nearly 18%,” says Rasmussen.
The increase in fleet capacity comes at a time when current trade growth in many key regions is declining and global economy growth prospects for the coming years are weakening.
According to Container Trades Statistics, total global container volumes during the first half of 2023 fell 4.3% year-on-year and ended only 0.2% higher than during the first half of 2019. The all-important head-haul and regional trade lanes fell a combined 4.9% year-on-year but remained 3.1% higher than during the first half of 2019.
Fortunately, the head-haul and regional trade lanes improved in the second quarter as volumes fell 2.0% year-on-year and were 5.3% higher than in 2019.
“Highlighting the current time charter and freight rate market weakness, head-haul and regional trade volumes have grown 5.3% compared to Q2 2019 while fleet capacity has grown 17%. Future supply growth may be tempered by reduced sailing speeds but further fleet capacity growth of about 15% in the coming year-and-a-half underlines how supply side growth will remain a challenge for ship owners and operators,” says Rasmussen.
Reygar supports Purus Wind’s HST Marine fleet decarbonisation with hybrid vessel performance data
Swansea-based HST Marine, a Purus Wind company, is leveraging Reygar’s BareFLEET technology to understand and report on the performance of its hybrid Crew Transfer Vessels (CTVs).
HST Marine’s commitment to provide low-carbon vessel solutions to the clean energy industry aligns with the international offshore wind sector’s aims to reduce vessel emissions and fuel burn, thereby driving down the overall carbon footprint of building and operating offshore wind farms.
The company currently has four hybrid CTVs in operation with three more soon to enter service, all of which have BareFLEET installed. These vessels are a mix of both controllable and fixed pitch propeller systems that take power from either a high-efficiency electric motor or the main engine, allowing them to operate near silently and with zero emissions in electric only mode.
Christopher Monan – Chief Operations Officer of HST Marine said: “We recognise the value of gathering and sharing accurate performance data from our vessels. It supports the company in winning new contracts and enables us to build lasting customer relationships. We have seen reductions in main engine operation of around 50% on our hybrid vessels, which has the holistic benefits of lowering fuel consumption, emissions and noise when in harbour, as well as lengthening service intervals. Being able to demonstrate these efficiency gains with clear and concise performance data is of utmost importance to nurture trust with both new and existing charterer clients, whilst also providing them with essential evidence for their own environmental reporting.”
New features, developed by Reygar within the BareFLEET technology package, allow HST Marine to closely monitor the performance of hybrid vessels including, for example, a breakdown of electric versus diesel power consumption whilst carrying out different tasks offshore. BareFLEET also monitors the electrical power consumption of the hybrid drive, with specific usage and performance statistics now included alongside conventional diesel engine performance data. These features enable HST Marine to evaluate the environmental performance of hybrid CTVs against conventional vessels and to make adjustments for further improvement.
Chris Huxley-Reynard, Managing Director of Reygar, said: “The team here is delighted to be supporting HST Marine on its mission to decarbonise offshore marine transportation. The transition to hybrid CTVs is an important step towards zero emission targets for the industry as a whole and we have recently delivered a number of BareFLEET systems for new hybrid vessels. It is hugely satisfying to see the technology performing well for HST Marine, providing their teams with the data they need both onboard and onshore.”
HST Marine, a wholly owned subsidiary of Purus Wind, part of Purus Marine, has worked closely with Reygar since its first vessels went operational some five years ago and has used BareFLEET on all new fleet additions since. The company continues to expand its hybrid CTV fleet with seven new Damen FCS 2710 and three Damen FCS 3210 vessels on order, all of which will be fitted with BareFLEET as standard.
MSC Saudi inks Saudi Arabia Railways partnership agreement to streamline intermodal services in region
MSC Saudi has signed a new contract with Saudi Arabia Railways (SAR) to increase container volumes between King Abdulaziz Port in Dammam and the Dry Port in Riyadh.
SAR is a specialized company for railways, owned by the Public Investment Fund (PIF), and built to connect the north of the Kingdom with its eastern and central regions. The company operates the railways and all its facilities and management with the necessary efficiency which accordance with economic operating and international standards in performance and safety.
As a leading company, MSC will contribute to further increasing operational efficiency in collaboration with SAR to provide better rail transport services as well as facilitate the movement of cargo to meet and support the needs of the Saudi market. Additionally, the partnership between MSC and SAR, will not only provide safe and reliable transport solutions, but also will support and showcase the importance of MEDLOG Saudi role in the regional supply chain.
Furthermore, as a part of MSC Saudi's social and environmental commitments, and following MSC's aim to lower its carbon footprint and foster the development of resilient supply chains, MSC Saudi signed the contract with SAR as a step towards fulfilling these objectives on both a global and regional level.
Hisham Alansari, MSC Saudi CEO, said: “This strategic contract falls in line with MSC Saudi responsibility to improve and enrich the customer experience through implementing latest digital solutions and services that address the needs of Saudi market. Also, it will support identifying future initiatives between MSC Saudi and SAR to support as much as possible the incoming and outgoing goods movement between Dammam port and Riyadh Dry port through providing best-in-class services.”
In addition, the close relationship and continuous cooperation between MSC Saudi and SAR will contribute to shaping the future of the rail transport and logistics sector as well as contribute to Saudi Arabia's pivotal role in enabling economic development across the wider region.
Energy Efficiency Existing Ship Index explained in video series
Maritime administration personnel, shipowners and operators can get to grips with the Energy Efficiency eXisting Ship Index (EEXI) through a new series of videos.
The films, developed by the Global Industry Alliance to Support Low Carbon Shipping (Low Carbon GIA), provide an introduction to IMO’s EEXI requirements, how to calculate the attained and required EEXI, and how the survey and certification works.
The videos - free to access online - are between 10 and 12 minutes in duration and cover:
· Similarities and differences between EEXI and EEDI
· EEXI compliance options
· A worked example of how a ship's required and attained EEXI are calculated
· A short quiz that enables the learner to test their understanding of EEXI
Watch the EEXI video series here.
Minglee Hoe, Technical Analyst of the IMO-Norway GreenVoyage2050 Project said: “Providing support tools to maritime administrations and shipowners/operators who want to increase their knowledge of the Energy Efficiency Existing Ship Index (EEXI) is important in helping the industry to navigate meeting ship energy efficiency requirements and making improvements in line with the IMO GHG strategy.”
The EEXI regulation is mandatory under MARPOL Annex VI and took effect in January 2023 as part of IMO’s short-term GHG reduction measure.
A ship's attained EEXI indicates its energy efficiency compared to a baseline. Ships attained EEXI will then be compared to a required EEXI based on an applicable reduction factor expressed as a percentage relative to the Energy Efficiency Design Index (EEDI) baseline. It must be calculated for ships of 400 GT and above, in accordance with the different values set for ship types and size categories. The calculated attained EEXI value for each individual ship must be below the required EEXI, to ensure the ship meets a minimum energy efficiency standard.
The video series was developed under the Energy efficiency technologies (EETs) and operational best practices workstream of the Low Carbon GIA. A Carbon Intensity Indicator (CII) video series was released in May this year.
Hapag-Lloyd partners with DB Schenker to decarbonise supply chains
Hapag-Lloyd has entered into a partnership with DB Schenker for the purpose of decarbonising supply chains. Following the launch in May of ‘Ship Green - a new solution for climate friendly transportation based on biofuel - the renowned logistics provider has selected Hapag-Lloyd’s sustainable transport solution as part of its sustainability initiatives.
DB Schenker and Hapag-Lloyd have signed an agreement for emission-reduced container transports with a waste- and residue-based biofuel. By end of 2023, DB Schenker plans to claim approximately 3,000 metric tonnes of carbon dioxide equivalent (CO2e) emissions avoidance. This is based on at least 1,000 tonnes of pure biofuel.
“We are excited about this new partnership with DB Schenker as we share the common goal of making logistics more sustainable. Collaborations like these set a clear signal in the industry and are another example of a step-by-step approach to further decarbonise supply chains”, said Henrik Schilling, Managing Director Global Commercial Development at Hapag-Lloyd.
“I am very pleased that together with Hapag-Lloyd we are setting another example for sustainability in our industry. This partnership further enlarges our global biofuel offer in ocean freight. With this commitment we are one step closer to our goal of becoming carbon-neutral", said Thorsten Meincke, Global Board Member for Air & Ocean Freight at DB Schenker.
Hapag-Lloyd has launched the Ship Green product to offer its customers emission-reduced ocean transports. Based on biofuel, customers of Hapag-Lloyd can add Ship Green as an additional service to their existing bookings – thereby avoiding CO2e emissions. Using the so-called “Book & Claim” chain of custody, Hapag-Lloyd can attribute avoided emissions to all ocean-leg transports, regardless of the vessel and route used. Ship Green is available for all shipments containing standard, hardtop or tank equipment. By offering Ship Green, Hapag-Lloyd is continuing along its path towards achieving climate-neutral fleet operations by 2045.
PSA BDP and Dow India collaborate to create zero emissions green transport corridor in Nhava Sheva
PSA BDP, a leading provider of globally integrated and port-centric supply chain, transportation, and logistics solutions, has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with Dow Chemical International Pvt. Ltd. (Dow India) announcing a first-of-its-kind sustainable transport solution in India. PSA BDP will deploy electric trucks for import and export container trucking via PSA International’s (PSA) Mumbai, Ameya and additional terminals to Dow India’s facilities beginning in 2024.
The trucks will be powered by PSA Mumbai’s 6.25MW Open Access Solar Plant, which is expected to be commissioned later in 2023.
This new zero-emission transportation solution is unique to the Indian market and will create an integrated and eco-friendly combination of services from PSA BDP, that delivers greater optionality and connectivity for Dow India and other PSA BDP customers who are seeking more sustainable solutions.
Gearing up for the launch of this new transport solution, PSA BDP has invested in a fleet of electric trucks from a leading EV truck producer in the region to be used for this initiative and other customer collaborations. The trucks can carry a fully loaded container up to 200 kilometres, resulting in annual carbon emissions reduction of over 300 tonnes compared to their diesel counterparts.
The investment further demonstrates PSA BDP’s aim to be an industry leader committed to delivering innovative and sustainable port and cargo solutions.
Mr. Siddhartha Ghosal, Research & Development and Technical Services & Development Director, Dow India commented: “In our continuous pursuit of a sustainable future, we are proud to join forces with like-minded partners. We are delighted to extend our full support to ensure the achievement and success of this endeavor. Such actions will serve as an impetus towards accomplishing our greater vision for a sustainable tomorrow.”
Ms. Manika Bhargava, Country Logistics Leader, Dow India, said: "The path to net-zero emissions is a journey possible through several actions and contributions from every stakeholder of the ecosystem. By supporting such strategic initiatives, we intend to contribute towards creating a space where our logistics service providers can make a difference towards the larger goal and set a path for others to follow.”
Mr. Pavithran Mkallada, Managing Director - India, PSA BDP noted: “We are extremely grateful to Dow India for their support in this pioneering solution to achieve emissions reduction targets. By leveraging the collective strengths and assets of the PSA Group, we have created a unique zero-emission solution that complements our current eco-friendly rail and intermodal solutions in India for sustainable connectivity.”
Mr. Sanjay Sethi, IAS, Chairman of Jawaharlal Nehru Port Authority (“JNPA”) said, “JNPA is pleased to see this renewable power initiative by PSA BDP and PSA Mumbai that provides enhanced sustainable transport solutions for our port users. We are energized to see major shippers lending their early support of this critical project, the first of its kind for ports here in India.
“JNPA is committed to partnering with forward-thinking organizations like PSA BDP and PSA, as we seek to foster leadership in sustainability and create value for trade. We also aim to contribute to the principles of Blue Economy and Maritime India Vision 2030, and of course, through our Green Port initiative. JNPA teams will be working closely with PSA Mumbai and other interested stakeholders through measures such as green lane priority access to the terminals for electric vehicles to encourage the expanded growth of sustainable products.”
Mark Fuhrmann paddles into record books with end of epic kayak odyssey
After 268 days in his kayak, 1643 hours of paddling and a journey of almost 11,000km, 65-year-old Mark Fuhrmann has today completed his epic “Reverse the Bad” charity expedition across Canada and the United States.
In doing so, he becomes the first person to solo kayak the ‘Greater Loop’ circuit, beginning (and ending) in Halifax, Nova Scotia, and traversing the Great Lakes, the Illinois, the Mississippi, the Tennessee and Tombigbee Rivers, before hitting the Gulf of Mexico and heading up the Atlantic Coast.
The Canadian native, who relocated to Oslo, Norway in the 1990s and worked in the maritime PR field, set out from Halifax on 2 June last year. His aim, apart from travelling across North America, was raising much needed funds for charities Doctors Without Borders and Captains Without Borders, as well as pushing a message of “positivity, community and caring for our troubled times.”
Mark chose the Reverse the Bad charities as his late wife was a doctor, while the company he ran before retirement - Blue-C – is a specialist maritime PR and communications firm. Captains Without Borders focuses on providing education scholarships and assistance to individuals from disadvantaged backgrounds looking to forge careers at sea.
Fuhrmann, who also completed a charity kayak from Oslo to Athens, Greece in 2017, says the last leg of the journey was arguably the toughest of all. He had to navigate through 23 days of continuous fog, tackle extreme tides and currents – particularly in the Bay of Fundy – and struggled to find anywhere to pitch his tent on the rocky, treacherous coastline.
“Some evenings I had to drag my kayak up three or four metres of rock inclines, while others I was lucky enough to sleep on moored lobster vessels. There were some challenging waves too, as well as a lot of ferries and fishing boats to avoid. It’s been incredibly draining… and I’m looking forward to a good night’s sleep, in an actual bed.”
He’s also eager to see his family, including his young grandchildren, and friends face to face, and may throw a small party when he’s back in Norway.
“I think we have to celebrate the fact I survived,” he says with a big grin, adding, “I hope the folks back home feel the same way too!”
There’s still time to donate to the charities through the Reverse the Bad website and help out these incredibly worthy causes. Please see www.mark-ervin.com
Carrier Transicold helps accelerate deployment of efficient and sustainable cooling solutions in Telangana, India
Carrier Transicold has signed an agreement with the Telangana State Trade Promotion Corporation (TSTPC) to advance cold chain development and training in India. This aims to support Carrier’s focus on expanding the cold chain, which can help improve health outcomes and reduce hunger, food insecurity and carbon emissions. Carrier Transicold is part of Carrier Global Corporation, a global leader in intelligent climate and energy solutions.
On Aug. 9, an inauguration ceremony was held for the Telangana Centre of Excellence for Sustainable Cooling (TCES) in Telangana, India. The aim of the centre is to introduce new expertise, equipment and technology into local markets, allowing them to deliver food and pharmaceuticals more efficiently throughout India.
“Carrier is committed to providing advanced, energy-efficient and sustainable equipment and service for the cold chain in India, and we are pleased to collaborate with TSTPC to help provide capacity building and skills development opportunities,” said Tim White, President, Refrigeration, Carrier. “Cold chain development in India will help the country provide better quality food and pharmaceuticals to its population and reduce the impact of food loss on the environment.”
With the launch of TCES, farmers and manufacturers will gain access to advanced and sustainable cooling solutions, as high ambient temperatures are common across India.
“The TCES is a first of its kind initiative in India. It will have state of the art equipment and will serve as a one stop solution to address challenges around the cold chain ecosystem in the country. It will develop and demonstrate cooling technologies and solutions that meet the state’s needs and could be scaled up with global reach,” said Shri K T Rama Rao, Hon'ble Minister for IT and Industries.
Mahesh Cargo Movers (MCM), a major pharmaceutical logistics provider whose fleet is cooled by Carrier Transicold units, attended the inauguration ceremony with one of its Carrier-refrigerated trucks.
“India has among the hottest temperatures in the world, so the need for maintaining cold chain integrity for sensitive and valuable cargoes like pharmaceuticals is of critical importance,” said Girish Biyani, Director, MCM Transport. “Our fleet is primarily comprised of Carrier units, and the Oasis 250 is specifically designed to meet the challenges raised by high ambient temperatures, up to 50 degrees Celsius. We are very happy with the units’ efficiency and the value they provide over the lifetime of the equipment.”
This is the latest agreement to support cold chain development in emerging markets. In 2022, Carrier agreed to develop a cold chain center in Kigali, Rwanda and a world-class Transport Training Centre in Accra, Ghana.
These collaborations are aligned with Carrier’s 2030 Environmental, Social & Governance (ESG) goals to reduce its customers’ carbon footprint by more than one gigaton and to positively impact communities by alleviating hunger and food waste.
Improving seafarer welfare fuels maritime resilience: Marcura
With ships being international in nature, seafarers have faced difficulties in sending money home or receiving payment due to sanctions on financial institutions associated with specific states. Recognising the significance of seafarer welfare, the maritime industry is making strong efforts to address these challenges and enhance working conditions.
Seafarer welfare has gained importance among international organisations, alongside issues like decarbonisation, digitalisation, and sanctions compliance. During the pandemic, the IMO and International Labour Organization (ILO) issued guidelines to ensure the well-being of seafarers. These guidelines emphasised crew changeovers, access to medical care, mental health support, and regular communication with families.
The actions of these international organisations reflect the direction of the shipping industry. Digital solutions have emerged as a crucial tool in addressing modern challenges for seafarers. Online platforms and applications enable seafarers to manage travel arrangements, visas and documentation electronically, streamlining administrative processes and enhancing security.
The industry is looking to rapidly integrate the latest technologies to improve efficiency and future-proof operations, such as the software solutions offered by Marcura. The company’s MarTrust, the largest payroll and business payments provider for the maritime industry, exemplifies this integration of digitalisation and welfare concerns.
MarTrust utilises digital solutions to facilitate secure financial transactions for seafarers and alleviates the difficulty for employers as seafarers can receive and send money easily while adhering to international regulations.
“Paying seafarers is a cross-border transaction,” said Errikos Andreakos (pictured), Chief Commercial Officer at MarTrust. “While seafarers send most of their money at home, about 20% of their wages plus overtime and bonuses are paid in cash, which is kept onboard. This can be costly for the shipping company because of trapped capital or expensive security factors.”
“Many cases of theft onboard and onshore, excessive commissions and the risks of carrying cash when you travel have been reported,” he added.
“By digitising this with an E-Wallet solution, you can make an instantaneous payment directly into the account of the seafarer. It’s an instant transfer of funds which both empowers the seafarer and reduces costs for the owner,” Andreakos explained.
UAE Ministry of Infrastructure & Energy and DNV to establish Maritime Decarbonization Centre
At a ceremony at the IMO headquarters in London last month, H.E Suhail Al Mazrouei, United Arab Emirates (UAE) Minister of Energy and Infrastructure, and Knut Ørbeck-Nilssen, CEO DNV Maritime, signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) on establishing a new UAE Decarbonization Centre. The partners are planning to launch the Centre at the beginning of 2024.
"The establishment of the UAE Maritime Decarbonization Centre reflects our unwavering commitment to addressing climate change and promoting sustainable practices within the maritime industry,” said H.E Suhail Al Mazrouei, the UAE Minister of Energy. “By collaborating with DNV, we aim to leverage their expertise and global network to drive innovation and accelerate the adoption of decarbonisation technologies.
“The Centre will play a pivotal role in advancing our national and regional sustainability goals, while contributing to the global efforts in combating climate change."
“The Foundation Det Norske Veritas is driven by a desire to help society tackle major global transformations,” said Remi Eriksen, President and CEO of the Foundation Det Norske Veritas and DNV. “The recent IMO decision to greatly strengthen international shipping’s emissions targets will spur the maritime industry to accelerate its transition.
“At DNV we deeply believe that cross-industry collaboration is vital to realising this goal and are working to share our deep and broad industry expertise through maritime decarbonisation centres in key regions of the world. The founding of the UAE Decarbonization Centre, in cooperation with the Ministry, is another significant milestone for the industry and we look forward to welcoming new partners in the future.”
The Centre will take a multi-faceted approach, working on leading joint industry research programmes, collaboration with governmental, industry, and academic stakeholders, and attracting and developing new talent to the industry. In addition, the Centre will focus on programmes that incubate and accelerate the development of new technologies and provide a centralized hub for information on decarbonisation solutions.
“We are very pleased to collaborate with the UAE’s Ministry of Infrastructure & Energy to establish the Maritime Decarbonization Centre,” said Knut Ørbeck-Nilssen, CEO of DNV Maritime.
“Initiatives like the Centre are essential as we look to accelerate towards a decarbonised future. We need to build via cooperation, foster innovation, and scale local strengths into global leadership. With its strategic location and strong support from industry leaders, the Centre is poised to become a hub for maritime decarbonisation efforts.”
Greece remains world’s largest shipowning country with 21% of global tonnage: UGS
According to the Union of Greek Shipowners’ Annual Report 2022-2023 released this month: Greece continues to be the world's largest shipping country, as Greek shipowners control 21% of the global tonnage with a total of 5,520 ships.
The importance of Greek shipping is even more significant for the EU, as Greek interests control more than 70% of the EU-controlled fleet for the types of vessels of strategic importance. The Greek-owned fleet thereby contributes drastically to ensuring the food security and energy autonomy of the European Union, says the UGS.
In the preamble of the Report, Ms. Melina Travlos (pictured), President of the UGS, says: “In the current challenging environment, it is vital we work together with a common vision. Concerted and concrete actions are required to maintain our historical seamanship and advance our industry, whilst in parallel maintaining our leadership and positioning ourselves for an ever-changing global status quo. Our goal is to safeguard Greek shipping, to safeguard our national asset.”
ClassNK issues AiP for ammonia fuel supply system for oil tanker and container ship developed by SHI
ClassNK has issued an Approval in Principle (AiP) for an ammonia fuel supply system for oil tanker and container ship developed by Samsung Heavy Industries (SHI).
ClassNK has been involved in projects aiming for zero-emission ships using ammonia fuel in terms of safety assessment, and has issued its "Guidelines for Ships Using Alternative Fuels” as a necessary standard to minimize the risks related to ammonia fuelled ships for the ships, crews, and environment by stipulating requirements for installation, controls, and safety devices.
ClassNK carried out a review of a conceptual design of the system developed by SHI based on the part C of its ‘Guidelines for Ships Using Alternative Fuels’. Upon confirming they comply with the prescribed requirements, ClassNK issued the AiP.
Dong-Joo Kim, Head of Shipbuilding Sales Engineering Team, Samsung Heavy Industries said: "We are happy to collaborate with ClassNK in this important design development and believe this AiP award demonstrates SHI’s readiness for the new ammonia shipping market that is coming from global decarbonization demands."
Masaki Matsunaga, Corporate Officer / Director of Plan Approval and Technical Solution Division, ClassNK said: "It is a great honor to be involved in the SHI's initiatives to expand industry options for greener shipping by conducting safety assessment on its ammonia fuel supply system, which has resulted in AiP. ClassNK remain committed to supporting to realize innovative solutions for decarbonization of shipping."
Evergreen Marine obtains double certification for GHG emission inventory
Following a thorough inspection and verification of its GHG emissions for all business operations, the company reports that it simultaneously obtained the two international environmental protection standard certificates of ISO14064-1:2018 and GHG Protocol in July.
Evergreen regards these measures as part of its responsibility as a ‘Guardian of the Green Earth’. The company is using advanced technologies to build a fleet of eco-friendly vessels, which comply with the IMO’s Energy Efficiency Existing Ship Index (EEXI) regulations and enable best fuel efficiency, and continues to replace old ships with new ones.
One month ago, the carrier confirmed a huge newbuilding order estimated to be worth as much as $5bn for 24 methanol dual-fuel containerships of 16,000 TEU capacity from yards in Korea and Japan, expected for delivery in 2026-7.
Currently 80% of ships in its fleet are less than 10 years old, which Evergreen says already allows it to operate with maximum efficiency in providing transportation service with lower energy consumption.
Pasha Hawaii activates Maui disaster response efforts
Pasha Hawaii reports that its supply chain routes are fully operational as support efforts for Maui wildfire relief are underway. The company has enacted its Emergency Response Plan which includes prioritizing emergency rations, foodstuffs and medical supplies via available barge capacity to Maui and its direct vessel roll-on/roll-off service.
Pasha Hawaii is the main carrier serving Hawaii and operates two fixed-day direct vessel calls per week from the US West Coast into Honolulu, with twice weekly connections into Maui for the container business. The carrier also provides extensive roll-on/roll-off cargo service with direct mainline vessel calls into the port of Kahului ready to meet the demands of large equipment and emergency and support vehicles.
The MV Jean Anne has regular biweekly service and MV Marjorie C operates an as-needed inducement call into Maui.
The company is working with government agencies, customers and partners for the shipment of relief supplies in addition to coordinating shipments with non-profit organizations to Maui.
In support of Maui wildfire relief efforts, Pasha Hawaii presented the non-profit Hawaii Community Foundation (HCF) Maui Strong Fund with a $25,000 donation.
Pasha Hawaii is encouraging those interested in supporting the Maui communities to consider a monetary donation to HCF, which has set up a fund specifically to support the Maui communities affected by the wildfires. HCF will be applying 100% of the donations received to assist those in need.
You can make an online donation by going to Maui Strong - Hawaii Community Foundation.
Separately, the latest green container vessel to Pasha Hawaii’s fleet, the MV Janet Marie (pictured), made its inaugural call at the Port of Long Beach at the end of last month.
P&O Maritime Logistics expands footprint in the Americas with Dominican Republic towage contract
Leading maritime services provider, P&O Maritime Logistics has secured an exclusive towage contract with DP World in the Dominican Republic, which will increase the volume and size of vessels calling at the Port of Caucedo.
The contract, which starts on 7 December, will see P&O Maritime Logistics deploy three tugs to support operations at Caucedo, which has a capacity to handle up to 2.5 million twenty-foot equivalent units (TEUs).
Two of the tugs are new builds and all three will be equipped with market leading capabilities, helping facilitate higher frequency and the handling of larger vessels. This is in addition to Oil Spill Response and Firefighting capabilities.
The new contract is part of P&O Maritime Logistics’ growth strategy in the Americas. Located near the capital Santo Domingo, the Port of Caucedo (pictured) serves as an important bridge between the Americas and the Caribbean. DP World has made major investments in the port, including a US$114 million to expand the main berth, and more than US$700 million to develop its logistics ecosystem.
Martin Helweg, CEO of P&O Maritime Logistics said: “We are delighted to have secured this new contract in Caucedo. This milestone further signifies the region’s importance to us. By supporting operations in the Port of Caucedo and facilitating an increase in both the volume and size of vessels calling at the port, we can make a positive contribution to the country’s economy.”
“Beyond the business opportunity, it is equally important to us to make a positive impact on the communities we operate in. By broadening our offering in the region, we hope to not only create jobs for the country’s seafarers, but to provide ongoing training and career development opportunities for each and every employee,” Helweg added.
Morten Johansen, CEO DP World Dominicana and COO DP World Americas Region said: "We are excited to welcome P&O Maritime Logistics, a company with a proven track record of safe and sustainable operations. The introduction of these new tugs, equipped with market-leading capacity and capabilities, further empowers us to expand our logistics hub and enhance connectivity.
“DP World considers the Dominican Republic a strategic location for ongoing investment and expansion. Our vision aligns seamlessly with the government’s strategy to transform the nation into the preeminent logistics hub of the Americas. With over US$700 million invested in DP World Ports and Terminals Caucedo, we are continuously fortifying our operations, augmenting connectivity, and bolstering competitiveness. Our terminal remains committed to delivering exceptional standards of service”, he added.
P&O Maritime Logistics currently operates in the Americas covering ports and LNG terminal services including Canaport LNG at St. John, Canada and Atlantic LNG at Point Fortin, Trinidad & Tobago; Cargo services includes Inland Waterway Bulk Cargoes operating along the Paraguay and Paraná rivers; as well as Offshore services such as the ‘MPSV Captain’, which operates in Mexico and a short-sea services containerized vessel that has previously operated in the South Caribbean.
Voyager Portal founders urge shipowners to take proactive stance to cut demurrage costs and risks
Voyager, the operations and demurrage management platform for bulk commodity shipping, is urging shipping companies to take a proactive stance and adopt a number of Best Practices in order to reduce the costs and risks of demurrage.
A dramatic surge in port congestion and associated supply chain disruptions have led to longer waiting times and higher demurrage costs, said Voyager co-founder and CEO Matthew Costello. “This issue is particularly severe in the bulk shipping sector, where demurrage costs can exceed 20% of the total freight cost for a voyage,” he said.
“However, demurrage doesn’t have to be a substantial burden on a company’s resources. By implementing three key Best Practices, companies can significantly reduce the cost of demurrage and streamline their operations.”
Voyager says companies should estimate and analyse demurrage in real-time, automate their Statement of Fact (SoF) data processing and logically analyse their charter parties.
“These changes will give your company the necessary tools to stay ahead, making informed, data-driven decisions that result in savings and greater efficiency,” said Costello.
According to Voyager, many businesses make the mistake of calculating laytime and estimating demurrage claims only after they receive a claim from the shipowner – leaving no room for adjustment. Instead, companies should take a proactive stance; by estimating and analysing demurrage immediately after the first load port, they can gain a real-time assessment of their demurrage risk at every stage.
By taking into account historical factors such as waiting times, congestion and lineups, operators can gain a realistic estimate of the demurrage risk for the entire voyage; these costs can be allocated to profit-and loss-statements accurately and any claim can be anticipated in advance. This also offers dynamic opportunities for risk mitigation by coordinating with terminals and other vessels to expedite discharge and avoid unnecessary delays.
Secondly, Voyager recommends that companies digitise all their SoF events data, to provide granular insight throughout the loading and discharging process – invaluable in assessing the efficiency of the terminal, the berth and the discharge itself. By automating the processing of this data, companies can streamline their demurrage calculations and gain real-time insights, informing decisions related to seasonality, congestion and efficiency.
Finally, Voyage urges companies to connect charter party agreements to demurrage logic. This involves more than just transferring data fields into a database – logic should be assigned contracts and fields, so that it can be understood how specific clauses in a contract are impacting demurrage claims. For example, there may be particular clauses that incur more cost at a certain berth or port. Analysis of the charter party enables dynamic optimisation of contracts across the company, which can highlight areas of potential savings based on data-driven decisions.
Voyager Portal views demurrage as an opportunity for businesses to alleviate the impact of port congestion, improve tighten up contract weaknesses and drive overall business improvement, said Voyager co-founder and COO Bret Smart. “Demurrage costs due to inefficiencies eventually get passed on to the customers, creating a situation where no one wins. Proactive management and intelligent data utilisation are the keys to unlocking significant business improvement,” he said.
“Ultimately, automating document processing and laytime calculations can free up valuable time for demurrage teams, with up to 50% of time savings. The time freed up can be used by analysts to go back to contracts and review clauses to identify other savings opportunities.”
Boll & Kirch sets new standards in filtration technology for marine applications
Engine filtration specialist Boll & Kirch reports that it has received more than 1,000 orders for its newly developed engineBoll® 6.49 filtration system in a short period of time.
"We are dedicated to developing and building the best engine filtration systems for the marine industry,” said Torsen Vogel, Vice President Sales at Boll & Kirch Filterbau GmbH. “More than 1,000 worldwide orders for the new, innovative engineBoll® 6.49 engine filtration system impressively underline that with this design we have successfully introduced an international new standard in filtration technology for 2-stroke engines.
“From our point of view, the engineBoll® 6.49 has the best filtration technology for servo oil maintenance for ME engines released by MAN is pleased about the exceptional order volume.”
The current Boll & Kirch redundant ‘on built’ filtration system engineBoll® 6.49 convinces customers with the following newly developed filter components: It guarantees continuous cleaning of the servo oil and ensures zero-loss operation in the oil circulation system.
The automatic filter is a redundant arrangement, as it consists of two chambers with two backflushing mechanisms. In the event of a malfunction in one of these filter chambers, the second can take over the filtration process completely. This is done without manual switching from the outside.
The new engineBoll® 6.49 fulfils the required filter fineness of 6 micrometers in a never before seen, unique technical implementation. The smart filtration system from the Boll & Kirch innovation hotbed is also resource-saving and works with a claimed 100 percent reliability. The system is significantly reduced in weight and easy to install thanks to its compact design.
The product development was implemented in partnership with MAN Energy Solutions, Copenhagen and validated by the renowned French institute IFTS (Institut de la Filtration et des Techniques Séparatives).
ICTSI reports strong 1H results with profit up 10%
International Container Terminal Services, Inc. (ICTSI) has reported unaudited consolidated financial results for the first half of 2023 posting revenue from port operations of US$1.16 billion, an increase of 10 percent from the US$1.06 billion reported for the first six months of 2022.
For the quarter ended June 30, 2023, revenue from port operations increased 11 percent from US$534.64 million to US$592.73 million.
ICTSI handled consolidated volume of 6,275,837 twenty-foot equivalent units (TEUs) in the six months ended June 30, 2023, nine percent more compared to the 5,752,582 TEUs handled in the same period in 2022. The increase in consolidated volume was mainly due to the contribution of MNHPI in Manila, Philippines that was consolidated starting September 2022, improvement in trade activities, and new services at certain terminal. This was offset by cessation of activities elsewhere and trade slowdown at certain other ports. Organic volume grew by 1%.
Enrique K. Razon, ICTSI Chairman and President said: “ICTSI’s diversified portfolio, operational discipline and the determined focus from our fantastic team around the world has enabled us to deliver another strong financial performance.”
“We have a robust balance sheet and a highly cash generative business which looking ahead, will enable us to continue our strong track record of investing in our terminals to support future growth for the benefit of all our stakeholders. Our estimated capital expenditure is US$400 million for the year which will be used to expand and improve productivity and efficiency at terminals including Australia, Mexico, Philippines, Democratic Republic of Congo and Nigeria. These investments are examples of our ongoing commitment to make our ports more efficient, accessible and globally competitive.”
“The macroeconomic and geopolitical climate continues to be uncertain but these results give us continued confidence in our financial and operational resilience. The opportunities for future growth are considerable and we will work closely with our stakeholders to achieve positive change for the communities in which we operate and deliver long-term sustainable growth.”
Converted bus set for mobile seafarer centre trial in Southampton
A bus has been transformed into a mobile seafarer centre for hundreds of seafarers to use in a major UK port. The mobile seafarer centre is being trialled in the Port of Southampton this week and will be stationary in the Eastern Docks (38/9 berth), where hot and cold drinks, snacks and free WiFi will be available to seafarers throughout the day. There is also a TV on the bus and a place for them to relax.
Southampton-based chaplains, from fellow maritime charities Stella Maris, The Mission to Seafarers and Sailors’ Society, will be on hand to provide support and services on the day.
The new initiative, organised and funded by leading Southampton maritime charity the Merchant Navy Welfare Board (MNWB), is part of a pilot project to see whether seafarers would welcome a mobile seafarers’ centre within the port.
While there is a small centre in the port, the two main city centres in Queen’s Terrace and East Street have previously closed.
Stuart Rivers, Chief Executive of MNWB which is the umbrella charity for the UK Merchant Navy and Fishing Fleets that provides support and co-operation to seafarers, fishers and their dependants, said: “Seafarer centres have always been a central hub for seafarers to use in between shifts but 61% of major and minor ports do not have a centre.”
“Working at sea can be a very lonely and isolated place as some seafarers spend months away from loved ones, with limited access to connectivity. Centres offer them a place to rest, and our new mobile centre offers something different for seafarers to enjoy.
“Throughout the day, it’s imperative we hear the views of seafarers on centres and what they want when they visit ports like Southampton. If there’s anything that can be done to enhance their experience, we want to know about it.”
The mobile project vehicle was transformed earlier this year by Southampton & District Transport Heritage Trust, a volunteer-led organisation which preserves and restores former buses and vehicles across the city.
Thursday’s event runs from 10am to 4pm and is being facilitated by ABP Ports, the Statutory and Competent Harbour Authority for Southampton port.
Tom Dynes, ABP Southampton General Manager, said: “At ABP Southampton, we are proud to support this important initiative as we welcome seafarers from across the globe daily. The vessels arriving in Southampton are at sea for days on end, and it is crucial to provide a place for seafarers to go for support during their stay. I am keen to hear the views of the seafarers and look forward to seeing this initiative develop."
Southampton is the UK's number one vehicle handling port, processing 600,000 vehicles per year, welcoming two million passengers annually and is home to the UK’s second largest container terminal.
NAMEPA's Sustainability Program grows exponentially in 2023
At the latest All-Hands Meeting of the North American Marine Environment Protection Association (NAMEPA), Co-Founder and CEO Carleen Lyden Walker (pictured) revealed a remarkable surge in participation for NAMEPA’s groundbreaking Maritime Sustainability Passport (MSP) Program.
"We are thrilled to witness a remarkable upsurge in MSP Program enrollments this year," stated Ms. Walker. “Notably, a diverse array of entities, including corporations, individuals, seafarers, and students, have embraced the MSP Program, with some actively engaging and others successfully completing it. Impressively, the program has achieved a staggering growth rate exceeding 300% compared to the previous year."
The MSP Program stands as the maritime industry's premier and longest-standing sustainability initiative, distinguished by its comprehensive framework and the annual updates it receives. "As we progress through 2023, we eagerly anticipate continued engagement from the maritime industry," expressed Ms. Walker. "The growing interest and collaboration witnessed across the sector inspire confidence in our collective dedication to preserving our oceans through NAMEPA’s 'Save Our Seas' mission."
Notably, the MSP Program's accomplishments have been fortified through an invaluable partnership with ESGPlus LLC. Since its inception in June 2020, ESGPlus has played a pivotal role in shaping and elevating the MSP Program, contributing significantly to its achievements.
With the ongoing momentum and resounding success of the MSP Program, NAMEPA remains steadfast in its commitment to fostering sustainable practices within the maritime realm. By fostering industry-wide awareness and action, the program continues to steer the maritime industry toward a greener and more environmentally responsible future.
Telemar secures smart maintenance and service contract from NSB
Marlink Group company Telemar has deployed its digital remote access technology to support the fleet operations of leading shipping company NSB GROUP (Niederelbe Schiffahrtsgesellschaft).
The contract award follows a period of thorough testing and evaluation, during which Telemar’s engineers worked closely with NSB’s expert team of superintendents to develop a programme of maintenance and compliance services tailored exactly to NSB’s needs.
Under the two-year contract, Telemar’s co-ordination team and technicians will provide shore-based maintenance including remote service co-ordination for troubleshooting and diagnostics. The contract covers specific equipment including annual radio survey, bi-annual magnetic compass calibration, annual VDR (Voyage Data Recorder) performance test and the certificate of compliance, single gyro compass overhaul, annual radar inspection, radar magnetron replacement and maintenance of SART/EPIRB, GMDSS, handheld radio and VDR beacon.
Telemar will provide a coordinated global service to NSB GROUP by providing Telemar World Service 4.0 (TWS), a web-based tool for managing service due dates across the NSB fleet, increasing visibility on service intervals and optimising vessel availability. Using a planned maintenance strategy will give NSB GROUP the ability to create better predictability in its vessel operations. The equipment included in the contract supports both navigational safety and efficient shipping and higher uptime means performance data can be shared on a close to real-time basis if required.
NSB GROUP currently has about 50 vessels under management, with 1,700 people at sea. NSB has a Maritime Training Center with a state-of-the-art ship handling simulator. More than 160 vessels were built under NSB’s newbuilding supervision. The company currently supervises eleven newbuilding projects in China.
“The goal of NSB GROUP is to ensure the best ship management experience for our customers at a worldwide scale, constantly improving our services to the evolving needs of our clients,” said Selvam Panneer, Chief Operating Officer of NSB GROUP. “Maintaining our required level of vessel availability means knowing that our assets are in optimum condition and in full compliance, thanks to comprehensive cover from Telemar.”
“Telemar’s services are designed to support vessel operators and managers in markets that are complex and highly demanding, with no margin for error,” said Mike Bauwens, CEO, Telemar Group. “Working closely with NSB GROUP has enabled us to develop a programme that will keep NSB’s vessels competitive and compliant – today and tomorrow.”
Charity’s annual ‘Fly the Red Ensign’ campaign celebrates faces behind Merchant Navy flag
The Seafarers’ Charity is once again calling on organisations and communities across the UK to pay tribute to the people behind the Merchant Navy Flag by flying the Red Ensign on Merchant Navy Day, Sunday 3rd September.
This year’s Merchant Navy Day focus is a celebration of the people behind the flag; the men and women who serve, or have served, as merchant seafarers. Their bravery kept supply lines open during two World Wars, and today they play a vital role as keyworkers ensuring the delivery of food and fuel and other vital goods.
The Seafarers’ Charity is encouraging people to share their stories and photos on social media using the hashtag #MerchantNavyDay; either of their experiences as merchant seafarers, or of someone they know who has served in the Merchant Navy.
For anyone wanting to honour the hardworking individuals who serve in the Merchant Navy, one of the best ways you can help is by raising awareness of Merchant Navy Day by emailing your contacts or by using social media – and to help there’s a free Social Media Pack available on the charity’s website.
Merchant Navy Day is also an opportunity to support the Merchant Navy Fund, which provides grants to maritime charities to support past and current UK merchant seafarers and their families in hardship or need. Rising costs for food, rents and mortgages are pushing many into debt, including those who work at sea.
Chief Executive of The Seafarers’ Charity, Deborah Layde, commented: “On this year’s Merchant Navy Day, I hope you will join me in paying tribute to the people behind our flag, our Merchant seafarers, past and present, especially as we commemorate the 80th Anniversary of the Battle of the Atlantic, the longest and deadliest battle of WW2. Over 26,000 Merchant and 23,000 Royal Navy seafarers lost their lives – we remember them and their ultimate sacrifice. Merchant Navy Day is a time to recognise and thank merchant seafarers of the past and of today who supply us with 95% of everything that we consume or export from our Island Nation.”
Donations are also invited to the Merchant navy Fund, which has already provided over £750,000 in grant funding to maritime welfare charities supporting active and retired merchant seafarers, thanks to generous donors.
Paris and Tokyo MoUs to conduct joint Concentrated Inspection Campaign on Fire Safety
The Member Authorities of the Tokyo and the Paris Memoranda of Understanding (MoU) on Port State Control will launch a joint Concentrated Inspection Campaign (CIC) on Fire Safety.
The purpose of the campaign is to create awareness among the ship’s crew and owners about the importance of fire safety measures; and to verify that the ship complies with fire safety requirements under the relevant IMO instruments.
This inspection campaign will be held for three months, commencing from 1 September 2023 and ending 30 November 2023. The campaign will examine specific areas related to fire safety in conjunction with the regular Port State Control inspection. A ship will be subject to only one inspection under this CIC during the period of the campaign.
Port State Control Officers (PSCOs) will use a pre-defined questionnaire to assess that fire-fighting systems and equipment comply with the relevant requirements, that the master and crew members are familiar with operations relating to fire safety, and that equipment is properly maintained and functioning.
If deficiencies are found, actions by the port State may vary from recording a deficiency and instructing the master to rectify it within a certain period of time to detaining the ship until the serious deficiencies have been rectified. In the case of detention, publication in the monthly detention lists of the Tokyo and Paris MoU websites will take place.
The results of the campaign will be analysed and findings will be presented to the governing bodies of both MoUs for possible submission to the IMO.
A positive 2023 for The Swedish Club
The Swedish Club has announced a positive first half of the year, with an insurance portfolio that continues to develop strongly in terms of both volumes and quality. It has delivered a profit of USD 16 million and a combined ratio of 98%.
Encouraging developments during the year in terms of insurance results and investment contributions have resulted in improvements to the Club’s free reserves, which now stand at USD 166 million.
Thomas Nordberg (pictured), Managing Director of The Swedish Club says: “We have achieved this as a result of continued strong loyalty from our members and brokers and a programme of structured and systematic efforts to enhance the quality of the insured fleet. The Club will maintain these efforts through the course of the year to continue this momentum and positively impact the overall insurance results and the portfolio profile going forward.
“We are also in the final stages of developing and enhancing our portfolio with new products designed to meet the developing needs of the market as it looks towards a future of continued geopolitical unrest, rapid digitalisation, and increased regulation in many areas of operation. This will ensure that we continue to provide the best-in-class service and support for which the Club is known,” he adds.
During the first half of the year, the Club has implemented changes and developments to strengthen the global organisation and the management team, already yielding positive outcomes. The Club will continue to drive this process with a focus on continued organisational, operational and product-offering improvements across the business.
The Club continues to take steps to strengthen its regional presence. From 1 September 2023, the Club will grow and relocate its London office as part of an increased focus on the important London market.
Wallenius Wilhelmsen signs Letter of Intent for new ‘Shaper Class’ next generation vessels
Wallenius Wilhelmsen has signed a letter of intent for four ‘Shaper Class’ next generation vessels and up to eight optional units of 9,350CEU class methanol dual fuel Pure Car and Truck Carriers (PCTCs) with Jinling Shipyard (Jiangsu). The first vessels will start being delivered from the second half of 2026.
These four vessels have been ordered to use alternative fuel sources, such as methanol, upon delivery. They will also be ammonia-ready and will be able to be converted as soon as ammonia becomes available in a safe and secure way.
“There is an urgent need for our industry to transform over the next couple of years,” says Lasse Kristoffersen, Wallenius Wilhelmsen CEO. “As a company, we are determined to shape this industry and lead the way to capitalize effectively on changing circumstances, as we grow with customers and partners sharing our journey.”
Lars Ekren, Senior Manager – Newbuildings and Conversions explains: “The process of developing our new design started over 1.5 year ago and the Newbuidlings team have been working in close collaboration with the designer (Delta Marin) and internal & external stakeholders during this period, to ensure the vessel design meets of safety requirements and is well suitable for our future short term & long-term operational needs.
“Energy efficiency & reducing GHG emissions is a top priority, and a lot of effort has put into ensuring the new vessels will significantly contribute to meeting our emission reduction targets.”
LISW23 Headline Conference set to “explore, inform and suggest solutions” across entire shipping spectrum
London International Shipping Week’s Headline Conference will take a unique approach to scrutinising industry issues by encompassing the entire shipping spectrum and including other trade sectors.
Speaking in a LISW23 London Interviews video presentation, Jos Standerwick, Chief Executive of Maritime London and chair of the Conference Working Group, declared: “We want to explore and inform and, importantly, suggest solutions in regards to some of the biggest issues that are facing the international market at the moment.”
Being held in the Plenary Hall of the London headquarters of the International Maritime Organization, the Headline Conference on September 13th takes the theme of ‘Reframing Risk in a Complex Market’. Mr Standerwick commented: “Where there is risk there is also opportunity – the opportunity to reshape a risk, provide solutions, and to collaborate.” Collaboration, he added, should be through choice not as a consequence of regulation.
Chaired for the second time by shipping veteran Paddy Rodgers, Director, Royal Museums Greenwich, the Headline Conference will centre on three core sessions. The first will examine how the shipping industry is adapting and changing as a consequence of external factors which are putting pressure on the market.
Session one moderator Steve Davies, CEO, Anglo International, promised the opportunity to hear from “a group of people who really represent a significantly important part of the industry." Following an introductory global geopolitical overview, this session will seek information from industry stakeholders on how they are addressing macro risks, influencing decision makers, and engaging with global compliance. “What element of collaboration is, should, or isn’t, happening in the supply chain?” he questioned.
The second session will scrutinise the relationship between the primary counterparties in the market and consider the way regulation and the wider environment is changing the conversation, and the relationships within the shipping value chain.
Martin Crawford-Brunt, Council Member, Baltic Exchange and moderator of session two, quipped that at present “shipping’s report card reads, ‘should do better, can do better’.” This panel will consider how shipping could ‘do better’ now and examine the degrees of freedom within which different market participants can act. “The stage is set for a great conversation,” he predicted.
The third session will encapsulate the two earlier debates and examine what they mean for the shipping industry moving forward. This session will identify what solutions can be deployed to mitigate the risks shipping faces, mapping out the future with a particular emphasis on technological and business innovation.
Session three moderator Siiri Duddington, Partner and Deputy Head of London Office, Hill Dickinson, emphasised: “We really need to drill down into the detail”. Drawing on their individual areas of expertise, this panel of thought leaders from diverse sectors will assess measures such as risk mitigation, strategic planning, management protocols and hedging risk. She noted: “It’s one thing to say we’re at the forefront of technological advancement but what does that actually look like practically speaking?”
Anticipating a challenging day of debates, Mr Standerwick observed: “We are trying to achieve all this in a single day with no soundbites!”
The conference speakers are drawn from a varied mix of global disciplines and represent diverse industry perspectives. To see who’s taking part and view the whole conference agenda, or to book a delegate place, click here.
For all the latest LISW23 information please see the website
KVH and Intelsat Reaffirm Satellite Partnership with Three-year Renewal
Agreement Establishes Long-term Geosynchronous Orbit (GEO) Foundation for KVH’s Hybrid Maritime Connectivity Solutions
MIDDLETOWN, RI – August 17, 2023 – KVH Industries, Inc. (Nasdaq: KVHI), today announced the completion of a three-year renewal of its satellite services contract with Intelsat. The renewal includes increased network capacity, the flexibility to support future bandwidth adjustments, and reduced service costs that will enable KVH to offer even more competitive airtime rates for mariners.
“We are thrilled to extend our long-standing relationship with Intelsat, which began in 2017 when KVH proudly became the launch partner for Intelsat’s FlexMaritime network,” said Brent Bruun, KVH’s President and Chief Executive Officer. “More than 7,100 commercial, leisure, and military vessels worldwide rely on KVH and Intelsat’s FlexMaritime high-throughput satellites (HTS) to deliver connectivity, content, cybersecurity, and additional critical services. This network is the backbone of our KVH ONE™ hybrid network, which integrates Ku-band GEO services, low earth orbit (LEO) services, worldwide 5G/LTE cellular communications as fast as 200 Mbps down, and shore-based Wi-Fi services into a seamless, intelligently managed network to keep seafarers always connected.”
“Today, KVH is a leader in maritime connectivity services, and we are proud to continue our long-standing partnership with them as they continue to make waves in the industry,” said Mark Rasmussen, Senior Vice President, Mobility at Intelsat. “Intelsat’s global FlexMaritime network delivers high-performing and reliable connectivity that, when combined with KVH’s innovative tools and support, give customers assured access to a wide range of capabilities and mission-critical applications.”
Access to KVH’s KVH ONE network with Ku-band speeds as fast as 20/3 Mbps (down/up), affordable airtime, and value-added services has never been easier. KVH’s award-winning TracNet™ product line features three terminals integrating satellite, cellular, and Wi-Fi technology with intelligent, automatic switching to ensure the best available communication option at all times. In addition to KVH’s terminals, the new KVH ONE OpenNet Program enables vessels with non-KVH VSAT antennas to enjoy global VSAT coverage from KVH, all thanks to a simple software update.
Odfjell first to install suction sails on deep-sea chemical tanker
In partnership with bound4blue, a pioneering developer of wind-assisted propulsion technology, Odfjell will install the innovative eSAIL® system on a chemical tanker, making it the first tanker vessel in the world to harness this groundbreaking technology.
bound4blue’s eSAIL® system utilizes a cutting-edge wind-assisted propulsion system known as a suction sail. By promoting the use of wind power to propel vessels, this technology significantly reduces fuel consumption and pollutant emissions.
Odfjell has actively pursued decarbonization initiatives for many years, and recently documented a 51% improved carbon intensity compared to the 2008 baseline. The deployment of bound4blue's eSAIL® system represents another significant milestone in the company’s implementation of innovative solutions to increase its fleet’s energy efficiency.
"Since 2020, we have been studying sail technologies as a potential energy efficiency measure for our fleet, and we are excited to now take the next step by partnering with bound4blue to implement their pioneering eSAIL® system on one of our chemical tankers," said Jan Opedal, Manager Projects at Odfjell. “This technology has significant potential to reduce emissions by harvesting the energy on the ship itself and transforming it directly into a forward thrust.”
Odfjell's partnership with bound4blue aims to expand access to the eSAIL® technology within the tanker shipping segment and further contribute to the industry's efforts in decarbonization. The decision to collaborate with bound4blue was supported by an extensive study conducted by SSPA, evaluating various Wind Assisted Propulsion Systems (WAPS) for the Odfjell fleet.
“This project marks another leap in our dedication to decarbonization. As the first tanker company to test the suction-sail technology, we demonstrate our innovative capabilities and dedication to a more sustainable shipping sector,” said Erik Hjortland, Odfjell’s Vice President of Technology. “We all have a responsibility to use as few resources as possible, and Odfjell’s long-time efforts in energy efficiency have significantly reduced our fleet’s emissions. The work continues, and we look forward to documenting further improvements with the installation of suction sails.”
“We are thrilled to team up with Odfjell for our first-ever installation in the tanker segment,” said David Ferrer, CTO of bound4blue. “They are true pioneers in innovation and sustainability, setting the bar for decarbonization in the industry. We are pleased that they have chosen our technology after their thorough analysis, confirming that we are headed in the right direction.
Working with their open and collaborative team has been fantastic, and we are confident that our joint efforts will unlock significant value for the industry.”
The pioneer installation will be completed in 2024.
Silverstream Technologies appoints Alistair Mackenzie as Chief Commercial Officer
Silverstream Technologies, supplier of air lubrication technology for the global shipping industry, has announced the appointment of Alistair Mackenzie as Chief Commercial Officer (CCO) into the company’s Executive team. Alistair will lead the development of the company’s commercial programme as it continues its international growth, maximising opportunities for the adoption of the Silverstream® System across all major segments of the shipping industry.
Alistair joins Silverstream from Kongsberg Maritime where he led the business’s global operations and strategy functions. Prior to that, he enjoyed a varied career spanning aftermarket, customer management and operational roles in the Defence, Aerospace and Marine businesses of Rolls-Royce. Alistair has a wealth of experience in leading strategic and large-scale transformation projects, which will serve as an important asset to help Silverstream execute its ambitious strategic plans and vision to help decarbonise the maritime sector.
Leading Silverstream’s commercial roadmap, Alistair will focus on further enhancing the value that the Silverstream® System brings to Silverstream’s customers, helping them to achieve their commercial and environmental goals. Alistair’s longstanding commercial expertise, paired with the existing processes and people that have driven Silverstream to become a market-leading clean technology company, will accelerate the business through its next phase of growth.
Alistair Mackenzie, CCO, Silverstream Technologies, said: “Silverstream is a future-focused company with an exciting, sustainable product. In the decarbonisation space, there are lots of bright ideas but not so many proven ones – the Silverstream® System sets itself apart, being both verified and easy for external stakeholders to understand. The maritime industry is looking for economic and environmental savings, and is open to disruption, but we cannot rest on the laurels of our success so far. I aim to ensure that we have excellent intelligence and clear commercial direction as we continue this exciting growth journey.”
Noah Silberschmidt, Founder & CEO, Silverstream Technologies, said: “I am very pleased to welcome Alistair to the Silverstream team. He is a highly respected commercial leader with over two decades of experience supporting some of the biggest names in the maritime sector to scale successfully and lead their markets. He will bring an invaluable perspective to the task of scaling our technology and our business globally, supporting the fantastic team we already have in place.
“We are building the right foundations with our Executive and Leadership teams to realise our vision of air lubrication becoming a standard application across the global fleet, and I am delighted with the progress we are making in pursuing that target.”
Svitzer designing world's first methanol hybrid fuel cell tug
Global towage provider Svitzer, part of A.P. Moller-Maersk, has launched the second phase of its project to design the world’s first methanol hybrid fuel cell (MHFC) tug.
Svitzer has conducted technical studies to establish the feasibility of this type of vessel accommodating the real-world operational requirements of a tug. Work will now begin between Svitzer and leading naval architect company, Robert Allan Ltd. to design the world’s first MHFC tug. The next phase will include work to complete the vessel design, scope considerations for vessel construction, and onboard equipment selection necessary to build the vessel.
The MHFC tug will use an electrical propulsion system with methanol fuel cells and batteries, delivering a self-sustained tug with longer endurance and fewer operational constraints than a purely battery-powered vessel. Secondary methanol fuelled generators will provide backup power if required without the need for a secondary fuel. Calculations indicate that the MHFC tug running on green methanol would prevent approximately 1,300 tonnes of CO2 annually from being emitted into the atmosphere, compared to fossil-fuel-based vessels of the same dimensions within Svitzer’s global fleet.
The design of the MHFC tug will be a joint project between Svitzer and Robert Allan Ltd. using Svitzer’s TRAnsverse tug design as the basis for the project. Svitzer will look to forge partnerships with other companies to finalise the selection of onboard equipment, such as the batteries and fuel cell system, and to support construction once the design phase is complete.
Gareth Prowse, Head of Decarbonisation at Svitzer, said: “We’re excited to enter the next phase of delivering the world’s first methanol hybrid fuel cell tug. This project is a major milestone in Svitzer’s commitment to the decarbonisation of our global fleet and demonstrates our ability to harness new technologies and alternative fuels to deliver innovations that will have a significant, positive impact on shipping’s road to net zero.”
“The combination of fuel cell technology and green methanol will result in improved operational efficiencies, resulting in less fuel consumption and lower emissions. We’re delighted to be collaborating with Robert Allan Ltd. to design the MHFC tug and look forward to bringing on new partners to construct the vessel which will operate at the Port of Gothenburg in Sweden.”
The MHFC is expected to enter operations in the second half of 2025 at the Port of Gothenburg in Sweden, where methanol is the low-carbon alternative fuel of choice.
Göran Eriksson, Port of Gothenburg CEO, said: "The Port of Gothenburg has set ambitious targets to reduce shipping emissions within the port area by 70% by 2030. To deliver on that ambition, the transition of shipping lines from fossil fuels to more sustainable fuels such as green methanol is critically important. Svitzer's decision to design and construct the world's first methanol hybrid fuel cell tug is a major milestone which sets the example for the long-term decarbonisation of global towage services. We're excited to welcome this pioneering new vessel to the Port of Gothenburg when it enters into operation in 2025."
Mathias Jonasson, Managing Director for Scandinavia & Germany at Svitzer, said: “Svitzer has been delivering safe and efficient towage services to customers in the Port of Gothenburg for decades. In addition to its ambitious emission reduction targets, the Port of Gothenburg has already gathered valuable experiences regarding the safe and convenient bunkering of methanol. The port’s experience and position as an emerging methanol bunker hub, combined with our long-standing collaboration and relationship, makes the Port of Gothenburg an obvious location for us to deploy the world’s first methanol hybrid fuel cell tug.”
Jim Hyslop Director, Project Development Principle at Robert Allan Ltd., said: “Robert Allan Ltd. is excited to be working with Svitzer to develop the world’s first Methanol Hybrid Fuel Cell Tug. Based on the award-winning TRAnsverse design, the innovative propulsion system on this new tug will enable operation completely free of fossil fuels. This is a major step forward in the path to decarbonising the tug industry, and we are extremely proud to be at the forefront of developments in these new technologies.”
Tufton’s Kamsarmax bulker installed with Anemoi Rotor Sails expected to save 10% of fuel & emissions annually
Installation of Rotor Sails on TR Lady, an 82,000 dwt Kamsarmax bulk carrier, was completed in Chengxi Shipyard, China, in June 2023. TR Lady is owned by TR Lady Shipping Ltd, a portfolio company of Tufton Investment Management and is on a time charter with Cargill.
The vessel was retrofitted with three 5×24m Rotor Sails by leading wind-propulsion provider Anemoi Marine Technologies. The technology was installed on Anemoi’s unique and patented transverse rail deployment system. This system enables the sails, which are fixed to the centre line during voyages, to be moved port or starboard when berthed for cargo operations, meaning loading and unloading can continue without being obstructed. Class approvals have been awarded by Lloyd’s Register.
The vessel has now completed its first voyage with the Rotor Sails from China to Australia. During this voyage, Anemoi engineers sailed with the vessel for sea acceptance testing and trials, with positive initial performance results which suggest that TR Lady can see average annual fuel and emissions savings exceeding the original expectations. The performance of the Rotor Sails will continue to be monitored over the coming months.
Of the installation, Andrew Hampson, CEO of Tufton, said: “We and our investors are committed to shipping’s decarbonisation journey and believe wind propulsion is a key enabler in helping Tufton reach its 2050 net-zero goals. We are very proud to have been able to support this innovative application of decarbonisation technology on TR Lady.”
Jan Dieleman, President of Cargill’s Ocean Transportation business, said: “We are pleased to be partnering with Tufton who share our decarbonisation ambition and belief in wind propulsion as a key part of the future of shipping.”
Kim Diederichsen, CEO of Anemoi Marine Technologies, commented: “I am delighted to see the project brought to life and for the initial performance results to be so positive. The installation is a testament to our large supply chain in China and our dedicated team. We look forward to assessing the performance and seeing continued positive results for our environment.”
TR Lady retrofit project has been nominated for the ‘Retrofit Project of the Year’ award at the Annual Marine Propulsion Decarbonisation Awards 2023 and can be voted for until the 29th August.
Amid record-low Trans-Atlantic trade rates, shippers must seize opportunities before market rebounds: Xeneta
Spot rates on the Trans-Atlantic fronthaul trade from North Europe to the US East Coast (USEC) are plummeting rapidly. According to Xeneta's platform data, the monthly average rate for a 40-foot standard container (FEU) has dropped dramatically, falling from USD 5,298 (excluding Terminal Handling Charges) in January to a mere USD 809 in August.
This significant decline serves as a reminder that markets can shift suddenly, says Xeneta. It's worth noting that just as these rates have dropped, they could also rise swiftly, as has been the case recently for other main trades, it adds.
The trans-Atlantic trade’s whopping fall of 85% is a serious loss-maker for carriers. Taking out THC narrows in on the ocean freight rate, which by mid-August was priced at almost the same level.
“This is a major meltdown for a trade that was steady and ‘dull’ for decades before suddenly becoming the poster boy of the container freight market in 2022, defying gravity with elevated rates for a long time after the rest of the market had crumbled,” says Xeneta Chief Analyst Peter Sand (pictured).
Shippers on the trade are taking full advantage of this new reality, regaining the upper hand after the 2021-2022 pandemic period delivered dramatically high freight rates. Xeneta’s real-time data, crowd-sourced from leading global shippers shows the strongest are now paying less than USD 475 per FEU for spot business, which Sands point out is an all-time low.
Sand sharply warns and advises shippers: "Don't wait around – jump on those deals while you can. Just like we've seen with fronthauls from Asia to the US and EU, carriers will be dead set on boosting the Transatlantic spot market once again. They're not keen on bleeding cash in yet another trade. You must stay on your toes and constantly monitor rates to know when to go to market.”
“The data also shows that the number of long-term contracts coming into force in 2023 is significantly down on past years, indicating that shippers are clearly not happy with the rates on offer nor being drawn into the kind of closer relationship carriers are seeking,” he adds.
However, at USD 2,000 per FEU (excluding THC), North Europe to USEC long-term rates are still 2.5 times above spot levels, meaning this is the only fronthaul trade where long-term business remains above short-term rates; all other key trades have normalized in this respect. But this too can change rather quickly.
So, what is behind the spot-rate collapse?
Transport volumes on the trade were down by 13.6% in the first half versus last year (source: CTS), with April alone scoring a 23% year-on-year fall. This is clearly visible from Xeneta data showing a spot-market slide from USD 3,875 per FEU at the end of March to USD 2,450 per FEU by 1 May.
“The second quarter was worse than the first, and looking ahead Xeneta expects demand to fall short of 2022 during every month in the second half as well,” says Sand.
Secondly, carriers have used this trade lane as a “parking lot” for excess capacity not deployed on other corridors. Data from Sea-Intelligence indicates that capacity on the North Europe to North America East Coast trade rose by 23.6% in the first half versus 2022 (and by more than 30% just in February and April). “This leaves shippers wondering how much longer they should wait for carriers to start offering long-term rates that mirror underlying market conditions – in other words, much lower than today,” says Sand.
Pre-pandemic contract levels were hovering at USD 1,300 to USD 1,400 per FEU (excluding THC), with very few dollars separating them from spot rates. This was despite the fact that there are major differences between long-term and short-term contracts.
“Carriers, for their part, can see as clearly as ever the impact of a fundamentally weak trade resulting in spot-rate warfare. Those selling space at the current level are bleeding cash for every box they bring on board. Hence keeping cosy with key shippers is essential, but everything has its price.
The shipping market's unpredictability underscores the importance of diligent market monitoring and strategic timing. While aiming for absolute rock-bottom rates is challenging, inching closer remains achievable if done at the right time, especially when armed with the right data insights,” Sand concludes.
CMA CGM to enhance SIRIUS service with a direct call to Rio de Janeiro
CMA CGM is pleased to announce that SIRIUS service, connecting Mediterranean to East Coast South America will extend its coverage adding a new call in the Brazilian port of Rio de Janeiro on its southbound leg.
The first sailing Southbound from Europe will be the 7th, October 2023 ex Tanger Med with MV MAERSK LOTA voy. 0NSFXS1MA, ETA Rio de Janeiro on October 19th, 2023.
The new SIRIUS rotation will be the following: Algeciras - Tanger Med - Salvador - Rio de Janeiro - Santos - Itapoa - Paranagua - Santos - Itaguai - Tanger Med - Algeciras
CMA CGM says the addition of this port does not have any impact on the transit time / berth window of its current schedule for the remaining Brazilian ports.
IRS to provide classification services to six Hybrid Electric Catamarans for Inland Waterways Authority of India
Indian Register of Shipping (IRS) has secured an order for providing classification services for six hybrid electric catamarans for the Inland Waterways Authority of India (IWAI). The vessels will be constructed at Hooghly Cochin Shipyard Ltd., Kolkata.
The six vessels are intended for providing inland ferry services, with a capacity of 50 passengers each. They will be propelled by electric motors powered by Lithium-Titanium Oxide (LTO) batteries and diesel generators, operating in a hybrid mode, providing electrical power to propulsion motors and other ship systems. The batteries are also capable of being charged by electric supply from a shore grid when the vessels are berthed on jetties. The vessels will be assigned the additional Class notation “BATTERY PROP” which is assigned to vessels where the battery systems are used for ship propulsion and are in accordance with the rule requirements.
IRS has published Guidelines for Battery Powered Vessels which provide requirements for effective installation and safe operation of Li ion battery systems, through mitigation of the risks, from the design stage to onboard installation and operation of battery systems.
There is a growing trend in use of battery power for vessel propulsion/auxiliaries to promote sustainable means of transport. To ensure that battery systems meet the stringent marine requirements, IRS has published Class Notes for Approval of Li-ion Battery Systems, which are based on international standards.
Cdr K Dhawan (Retd), Head of the Defence division at IRS (pictured), stated ‘IRS is fully geared to work with industry on renewable energy and hybrid propulsion systems and to promote the use of alternate fuels. IRS is committed to support the ‘Make in India’ and ‘Atma Nirbhar Bharat’ call given by Hon’ble Prime Minister in the field of efficient green propulsion solutions and for providing its clients with associated rules and guidelines’.
Maritime UK Solent Awards 2023 finalists announced
Finalists shortlisted for the prestigious Maritime UK Solent Awards 2023 have been announced. The shortlisted finalists were selected by an independent panel of maritime industry experts from more than 90 entries across all categories, demonstrating the depth of excellence and achievement across our outstanding sector over the past year.
The winners will be announced at the Awards ceremony to be held on Thursday 5 October at the Portsmouth Historic Dockyard. Tickets are now available to attend the Awards.
Stuart Baker, Managing Director at Maritime UK Solent, said: “We were absolutely delighted to see such a significant increase in applications this year. This tells me that the industry recognises the value of coming together and celebrating our collective excellence, and the impact that winning a MUK Solent Award can have. There is so much to celebrate in the maritime industry and the Solent is leading the way in shaping the future of maritime.
The following finalists have been selected:
Net Zero Navigator Award, sponsored by Associated British Ports:
• National Oceanography Centre
• Portsmouth International Port
• RAD Propulsion Ltd
Clean Maritime Innovator Award, sponsored by Datum Electronics:
• Associated British Ports
• DP World
• Optima Projects
Global Trade Award, sponsored by CNS and DP World:
• BAE Systems Maritime Services
• Griffon Hoverwork
• Keel Marine
Start-Up of the Year Award, sponsored by LockHeed Martin UK Rotary and Mission Systems:
• Archipelago Yachts
• Electrogear Fareham Ltd
• Just Be Maritime Ltd
Diversity Champion Award, sponsored by the Royal Navy:
• BAE Systems (Outlink)
• BAE Systems Maritime Services (Employee Resource Groups)
• Maritime and Coastguard Agency
Technology Game-Changer Award, sponsored by Red Funnel:
• Carisbrooke Shipping Ltd
• Connected Places Catapult
• National Oceanography Centre
Future Skills Award, sponsored by The Solent Cluster:
• BAE Systems
• Berthon Boat Company Ltd
• Portsmouth International Port
Small Business of the Year, sponsored by the Solent Local Enterprise Partnership:
• NASH Maritime Ltd
• RS Aqua
• Solent Cruises Ltd
International Partner of the Year Award:
• Halifax Partnership
• Robosys Automation
Employer of the Year Award:
• Carnival UK
• Marine Resources Ltd
• National Oceanography Centre
Apprentice of the Year Award:
• Jamie Bamforth, BAE Maritime Systems
• Joel Shaw, Royal Navy
• Joshua Weston, BAE Maritime Services
Large Business of the Year award:
• BAE Systems Maritime Services
• Serco
• Solent Stevedores
The finalists of the Maritime Legacy Award, sponsored by Solent Stevedores, will be announced in September.
Book your tickets for the MUKS 2023 Awards evening at https://muksolent.com/muksolent-awards-2023/
ClassNK releases ‘FAQs on the FuelEU Maritime (1st Edition)’
ClassNK has released ‘FAQs on the FuelEU Maritime (1st Edition)’, an overview and necessary preparation for FuelEU Maritime, regulations newly introduced by the European Union (EU) to promote the decarbonization of fuels used on board ships.
The EU has set a goal of reducing greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions by at least 55% by 2030, compared to the 1990 levels, with the aim of achieving net zero emissions by 2050.
As part of a comprehensive climate policy package ‘Fit for 55’ for achieving this goal, FuelEU Maritime was adopted by the European Parliament and the Council of the European Union in July 2023. It applies to all ships of above 5,000 gross tonnage of shipping companies and consists of provisions setting a limit of GHG intensity of energy used on board a ship arriving at, staying within or departing from EU ports and requesting the use of on-shore power supply (OPS) or zero-emission technology in EU ports for containerships and passenger ships.
To assist shipping stakeholders in preparation for the FuelEU Maritime, ClassNK has developed the FAQs (1st Edition) providing an overview of the regulations and introduction of the necessary preparations in a Q&A format.
These FAQs will be updated promptly once further practical implementation details become available. In addition, ClassNK will contribute to smooth regulatory compliance for clients, such as implementing into its GHG emission management tool ‘ClassNK ZETA’, a penalty calculation tool for cases of failure to comply with FuelEU Maritime provisions and features to support further comprehensive considerations to it.
‘FAQs on the FuelEU Maritime(1st Edition)’ is available on the following page of the ClassNK website: https://www.classnk.or.jp/hp/en/authentication/eumrv/index.html
StealthGas reports record-breaking 6 months results
Owner and operator of liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) vessels StealthGas Inc has reported record-breaking unaudited results for the second quarter and six months ended June 30, 2023.
All-time record net Income of $27.3 million was achieved for the six-month period compared to a net income of $19.8 million for first-half 2022, on revenues of $74.7m, down $0.4m (0.5%) year-on-year primarily due to a decrease in fleet size.
Strong profitability continued for the second quarter with net income of $10.5 million on revenues of $36.7m. despite having reduced the number of vessels in the fleet to 29 at the end of the quarter, down from 34 a year earlier.
For the remainder of the year about 80% of fleet days are secured on period charters, with total fleet employment days for all subsequent periods generating approximately $90 million (excl. JV vessels) in contracted revenues.
CEO Harry Vafias (pictured) commented: “We continued operating in a firm market that underpinned yet another quarter of high profitability. So far for the first six months of 2023 we have reported the strongest performance on record, with an EPS of $0.71.
“During the second quarter we further divested assets in a rising market and will continue to diversify the fleet with the timely addition of bigger sized vessels. We were also largely focused on reducing debt, repaying $105million during the quarter alone, thus greatly reducing our interest rate expenses.
“At the same time our Board authorised us to repurchase shares that we started doing late in the previous quarter. Up to now we have repurchased over 1 million common shares and will continue.
“We are at the fortunate position where we can deleverage, diversify, repurchase stock and maintain strong liquidity concurrently. Despite any seasonal fluctuations the market remains relatively firm and we expect and upturn in the winter months that are approaching. We remain positive for the medium-term outlook of the LPG shipping market.”
AirWing Wind Propulsion System takes significant step forward by working with Bureau Veritas
Bureau Veritas is working with GT Green Technologies, a leading-edge developer of wind-based green solutions for the maritime sector, with the goal of providing approval in principle (AiP) for their AirWing technology.
The AiP from Bureau Veritas will be an important step forward for the design of the AirWing20™ system, which has also been awarded funding by the UK Government’s Department for Transport, through its Transport Research Innovation Grant (TRIG) program.
Bureau Veritas has significant expertise across a wide range of wind propulsion technologies and provides the industry with updated modern class rules and guidance for wind propulsion systems.
By working closely with Bureau Veritas and other commercial partners such as PEI TECH LLC, GT Green Technologies is lining up to deliver the first AirWing20™ unit for installation on a vessel in 2024. Further news on a major partnership with a prominent shipowner for the inaugural installation of the AirWing20™ system is expected to be announced shortly by GT Green Technologies.
George Thompson, CEO of GT Green Technologies, expressed his excitement about the partnership with Bureau Veritas, stating, "We are thrilled to join forces with Bureau Veritas to classify our revolutionary AirWing20™ technology. This collaboration solidifies our commitment to delivering the best-in-class solution to the market. With this significant milestone, we are gaining tremendous momentum, assembling a talented team, and taking concrete steps toward reshaping the industry for the better."
“Our rapid progress is also thanks to the backing we received from the UK Government’s TRIG program. Our selection as a recipient of this prestigious grant reflects our commitment to revolutionizing the shipping industry with cutting-edge, environment saving technology. We also look forward to sharing news in the near future on the installation of the first AirWing20™ unit on a vessel, along with other significant collaborations.”
Laurent Leblanc, Senior Vice President, Technical & Operations at Bureau Veritas Marine & Offshore, commented, "We recognize the innovative potential of GT Green Technologies' AirWing20™ system. The classification process is an important step in the technical validation of this solution to address compliance with applicable class rules, notations and other regulations, and helps to pave the way for the next phases of development.”
The substantial financial support received by GT Green Technologies through the UK Government’s TRIG program was a significant achievement for the AirWing20™ project. The TRIG program, overseen by Connected Places Catapult on behalf of the Department for Transport, is designed to foster advancements and encourage research in the transport sector.
GT Green Technologies also acknowledges the invaluable partnerships they have established with PEI Tech LLC, SABE Fluid Dynamics, Manufacturing Technology Centre (MTC), and other industry leaders. These collaborations have been instrumental in the development and delivery of this pioneering technology.
NYK takes stake in vehicle terminal business in Indonesia
Japanese carrier NYK reports it has acquired a 25% stake in PT. Patimban International Car Terminal (PICT), based at the Indonesian port of Patimban. The shares were acquired from Toyota Tsusho Corporation, and registration was completed on August 18.
The port of Patimban is 120 kilometres east of the Jakarta city centre and has been under construction in stages since 2018. The terminal was capable of handling 220,000 vehicles per year in 2022, and expansion is underway to increase capacity to 600,000 vehicles per year.
Tanjung Priok, another international port located in the Jakarta metropolitan area, has become chronically congested due to increased cargo volume. In addition, traffic congestion on the roads connecting the port and the Eastern Industrial Park in the eastern part of Jakarta, where many Japanese companies are located, has caused delays in importing and exporting auto parts and finished vehicles. The full-scale operation of the port of Patimban is expected to solve these problems.
Through its equity participation in PICT, NYK says it will be able to provide optimal logistics services to our customers, including vehicle and construction equipment manufacturers entering the Indonesian market, and contribute to developing the Indonesian economy.
Ground-breaking port agreement signed at Plymouth by ABP and Brittany Ferries
Associated British Ports (ABP), Plymouth City Council and Brittany Ferries have pledged to work together to support the docks to grow and to work towards Net Zero by signing a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU).
The memorandum was signed last week (17 August) by Councillor Tudor Evans, Leader of Plymouth City Council, Christophe Mathieu, Chief Executive of Brittany Ferries and Henrik Pedersen, Chief Executive of ABP and commits all partners to working together to ensure Millbay Docks at the Port of Plymouth, which is owned and operated by ABP, enjoys a sustained era of clean, green and good growth, with investment to future proof facilities at the docks for years to come.
The move will support Millbay Docks as a key economic driver for Plymouth and work towards the Council’s ambition to become Net Zero by 2030.
It came as the city welcomed thousands of visitors for the British Firework Championships, with Brittany Ferries marking its 50th year of service by becoming a major partner in the event.
Millbay Docks, owned and operated by ABP, covers 50 acres of port estate and is home to Brittany Ferries services, connecting the South West to France and Spain. It handles 400,000 passengers and 150,000 vehicles per year, as well as 80,000 tonnes of cargo each year, contributing to over £95m to the UK economy.
Millbay Docks is less than a mile from the city centre and its geographical advantages ensure that it is well placed to continue to serve established European trade routes as well as the growing cruise market via its two dedicated berths.
The three parties will work together to bring forward improvements and business development opportunities, for the mutual benefit of the docks, the parties and the wider port and city of Plymouth, in the following areas:
• A shared ambition for Millbay Docks to be Net Zero by 2030 supporting new green jobs and investment
• To maximise the impact of planned capital projects, including quayside passenger access and freight improvements
• To identify grant funding opportunities for investment in shore power, assisting in reducing greenhouse gas emissions from vessels visiting the docks
• To develop the freight opportunity for Millbay utilising the Freeport, underlining the importance of trade between France, Spain and the United Kingdom
• To increase inbound tourism and cruise working with Destination Plymouth and other regional bodies.
Council leader Tudor Evans OBE (pictured, centre) said: “Port cities such as Plymouth have the advantage when it comes to working towards net zero. Transporting goods by ship is one of the cleanest ways of getting products from A to B. Millbay Docks has huge potential to be a major player for new freight opportunities, particularly as part of our Freeport status.
“We’re really keen to work closely with them to explore all avenues that create new jobs and are particularly excited about the prospect of green jobs and marine innovation that Plymouth leads the field in. We need to do more and we can do more to keep Plymouth ahead of the competition. That’s what this Memorandum is about.”
Associated British Ports’ Chief Executive, Henrik Pedersen (pictured, right), said: “This year has seen the launch of our wide-ranging new sustainability strategy, ‘Ready for Tomorrow’, which outlines our plan to invest £2 billion in decarbonising our own port operations by 2040, and in major infrastructure projects to enable the wider UK energy transition. If we are going to make Net Zero a reality, it is essential there is a partnership approach, which is why we are delighted to be working with Plymouth City Council and Brittany Ferries to support greener growth for Millbay Docks and Plymouth more broadly.”
“We are delighted to support this strong message of collaboration and intent with the city and Plymouth Port,” added Christophe Mathieu (pictured, left), CEO Brittany Ferries. “We have proudly operated from Plymouth since the company’s inception in 1973. Fifty years on we are looking forward to a shared future built on economic growth, more cross-border trade and sustainable operations at sea and while in port.”
Cargill and BAR Technologies’ WindWings sets sail
Cargill and BAR Technologies’ groundbreaking WindWings innovation sets sail on open waters, testing new technology that will bring cutting edge wind propulsion to commercial shipping for the first time.
Mitsubishi Corporation’s Pyxis Ocean, chartered by Cargill, is the first vessel to be retrofitted with two WindWings, which are large wing sails measuring up to 45 meters in height that can be fitted to the deck of bulk cargo ships to harness the power of wind. Manufactured by industrialization partner Yara Marine Technologies, they are expected to generate average fuel savings of up to 30 percent on new build vessels, which could be even higher if used in combination with alternative fuels.
The installation of the wings took place at the COSCO shipyard in China and the Pyxis Ocean is now on the water, conducting her maiden voyage.
“The maritime industry is on a journey to decarbonize—it's not an easy one, but it is an exciting one,” said Jan Dieleman, President of Cargill’s Ocean transportation business. “At Cargill we have a responsibility to pioneer decarbonizing solutions across all our supply chains to meet our customer’s needs and the needs of the planet.
“A technology like WindWings doesn’t come without risk, and as an industry leader – in partnership with visionary shipowner MC Shipping - we are not afraid to invest, take those risks and be transparent with our learnings to help our partners in maritime transition to a more sustainable future.”
The installation demonstrates a step-change in attitudes towards technologies that can enable an energy transition for existing vessels. The maritime industry faces a huge challenge to reduce average CO2 emissions by 30% by 2030 and is working towards 50% by 2050. The WindWings project, which is co-funded by the European Union as part of the CHEK Horizon 2020 initiative, can help the industry meet those targets by offering a retrofit solution that is capable of decarbonizing existing vessels, which is particularly relevant given that 55 percent of the world’s bulker fleet are up to nine years in age.
The performance of the sails will be closely monitored over the coming months to further improve their design, operation, and performance, with the aim that the Pyxis Ocean will be used to inform the scale-up and adoption across not only Cargill’s fleet but the industry. BAR Technologies is already planning to build hundreds of wings over the next four years and is also researching new builds with differing hydrodynamic forms.
“If international shipping is to achieve its ambition of reducing CO2 emissions, then innovation must come to the fore,” said John Cooper, Chief Executive Officer, BAR Technologies. “Wind is a near marginal cost-free fuel and the opportunity for reducing emissions, alongside significant efficiency gains in vessel operating costs, is substantial.
“Today is the culmination of years of pioneering research, where we’ve invested in our unique wind sail technology and sought out a skilled manufacturing partner in Yara Marine Technologies, in order to provide vessel owners and operators with an opportunity to realize these efficiencies.”
OSM Thome and Pherousa Green Shipping collaborate on Ultramax project
Norwegian companies OSM Thome and Pherousa Green Shipping AS (referred to as "PGS") have entered into a Letter of Intent outlining their collaboration on a series of 63000 dead weight (dwt) Ultramax vessels to be ordered by PGS.
The collaboration involves Phases I, II, and III, encompassing Drawing Approval, Project Development, and Site Supervision for six 63000 dwt Ultramax Bulk Carriers. Furthermore, OSM Thome will manage the crew and technical management of the constructed vessels.
Pherousa Green Shipping AS, headquartered in Oslo and established in 2023, is in the process of initiating an order for up to six modern, zero-emission Ultramax dry bulk carriers. These vessels are designed by Deltamarin in Finland. The initial ship design is derived from an existing Deltamarin Ultramax model, but it has been modified to include the ammonia cracking technology developed by Pherousa Green Technologies AS (PGT). This technology employs ammonia as a hydrogen carrier, facilitating true zero-emission propulsion.
OSM Thome boasts expertise in supervising the design and construction of various vessel types, including Anchor Handling Tug and Supply (AHTS) vessels, Shuttle Tankers, Dry Bulk vessels, MR Tankers, PSVs, Jack Up Rigs, Storage Platforms, Car Carriers, RORO and RO-Pax Carriers, Accommodation Barges and Vessels, Offshore decommissioning projects, Battery Operated Vessels (BOBs) and Battery-Operated Ferries (Norwegian Sector), Fully Autonomous Vessels (Ammonia Propulsion), Expedition Vessels, and Cruise Liners.
"We are delighted to partner with the renowned Shipmanagement group, OSM Thome, to assist us on finalizing our forthcoming fleet of true zero-emission Ultramax bulk carriers. Our early agreement with OSM Thome ensures that crew members will be prepared and trained well in advance of vessel delivery. This proactive approach guarantees the establishment of safety measures and protocols in accordance with the guidelines for safe handling at sea," said Hans Bredrup, Chairman of the Pherousa Group.
The initial fleet of six Ultramax dry bulk carriers has a specific focus on serving the global copper industry. Given copper's pivotal role in worldwide decarbonization efforts, the copper industry has set ambitious emission reduction targets, encompassing Scope 3 emissions which involve transportation to end users. "The concept has garnered significant support, and we are actively engaging with key stakeholders in both ammonia supply and vessel end-users. This momentum is propelling us towards realizing zero-emission copper transportation, fostering a fully zero carbon supply chain from mines to destinations," added Mr. Bredrup.
“We really appreciate the trust that PGS has in our abilities by signing this agreement. Since the merger of OSM Maritime Group and Thome Group was finalised in May this year creating the combined entity OSM Thome, we have worked hard to amalgamate and build on the best attributes and skills of all our employees to provide real benefits for our customers. We are looking forward to working closely with the team at PGS to ensure that this project is successfully supervised and managed to create sustainable transportation solutions,” said Tommy Olofsen, OSM Thome’s Chief Commercial Officer.
Shipowners shortchanged over grain cargoes, says Swedish Club
Despite the many and varied categories of cargo damage faced by shipowners transporting grain cargoes, when it comes to claims, it’s actually cargo shortage that they need to be prepared for, says The Swedish Club, in its new publication, Bulker Focus: Carriage of grains and soya beans.
In the last five years, the Club’s statistics show that shortage was the most common type of claim for bulkers carrying grains, contributing to 63% of all claims. About 70% of these shortage claims occur due to discrepancies between the vessel’s figures and shore figures with most claims arising in North Africa over the five-year period as a whole.
The Swedish Club’s Director, Claims, Johan Kahlmeter explains: “In Argentina and many North African countries it is not unusual for there to be discrepancies between the shipper's figures based on shore scales, and draft surveys. Each country has its own rationale for this, but the bottom line is that the operator can find themselves seriously out of pocket through no fault of their own. Indeed, in some North African countries draft surveys are not recognised at all. Although each shortage claim averages to about only USD 35,000 there are so many of them that they make up nearly half (44%) of the Club’s claims costs for bulkers carrying grain.”
In the publication the Club provides a checklist of advice to help operators to protect themselves from these claims, including the use of surveyors, taking care with record keeping, and getting the Club involved when asked by third parties to sign statements.
Claims have also increased significantly over the period, in part due to COVID. Whilst an average of 5.6% of all bulk carriers insured have made a grain claim over the last five years, there has been a steady increase in the frequency of claims. Only 3.7% of vessels made a claim in 2018 compared with 8.9% in 2022. In this five-year period there were few claims in China until 2021, but since then the Club has seen a steady increase in the region, related to disruption and delays in Chinese ports due to COVID.
Authored by Joakim Enström, Senior Loss Prevention Officer at the Club, Bulker Focus: Carriage of grains and soya beans has been written in conjunction with cargo specialists CWA and focuses on the loading, carriage and discharge of bulk grain, oilseed and soya bean cargoes. These present numerous challenges with a range of considerations for the crew to consider prior to and during carriage of the cargo. The publication explores the most common causes of cargo damage, and how to prevent them, and also looks at fumigation and ventilation in detail. It aims to provide ship operators with understanding of the common issues experienced during carriage of these cargoes in addition to ways to avoid them.
To download your copy of Bulker Focus: Carriage of grains and soya beans please visit the ‘Publications’ area on The Swedish Club’s website.
Turner Price to exhibit at IMPA London as offshore sales continue to grow
Turner Price have announced they are exhibiting at the two-day IMPA London 2023. Taking place on September 12-13 at the Queen Elizabeth II Centre in Westminster, the premier maritime event brings together key decision makers from some of the largest ship-owners and operators with maritime specialist suppliers from more than 60 countries.
The large Yorkshire based provider supplies food and provisions to the UK’s offshore, renewable, oil, gas and marine industries, servicing all UK ports and both large UK based and international clients.
Tony Broadhead, Head of Offshore at Turner Price, has a long-standing relationship with IMPA and says showcasing their services in the heart of London displays the businesses commitment to the marine industry.
He said: “We are proud to be a member of the International Marine Purchasing Association and are excited to be supporting IMPA London by exhibiting for the sixth time. My experience in ship chandlery spans nearly four decades, and in that time, I have seen IMPA events develop into the most recognised and beneficial exhibitions to be involved with.
“At Turner Price, we have seen significant growth in recent years through strong investment and by offering a trusted competitive service. Our days of being a disrupter are complete, and we are now the first-choice provider to many excellent vessels and international operators. Across the two-day event our team will be there to network with new potential customers and to catch up with many connections in the industry.”
Turner Price clients include dredging, survey, dive support, drill, fishing, cargo, jack up, patrol, maintenance, cable and pipe laying, multi-function, and heavy lift vessels, as well as tankers, bulk carriers, and environmental research and surveyor ships. In addition to IMPA, Turner Price are also members of the British Association of Ship Supplies, and the International Ship Suppliers Association (ISSA).
WSG Energy Services cements FPSO contract credentials with raft of Asia Pacific project wins
WSG Energy Services (WSGES) in Singapore has secured multiple contract wins on Floating Production Storage and Offloading (FPSO) vessel projects with a combined value in excess of at US $10 million.
The Process, Pipeline & Industrial Services specialist has been commissioned by Yinson Production to assist on the upgrade and conversion of FPSO Atlanta; on BW Offshore’s construction of the FPSO Barossa; and recently completed a workscope on SBM Offshore’s Prosperity FPSO.
Another recently awarded FPSO construction by Yinson Production is to provide precommissioning services for the FPSO Maria Quiteria (IPB Project) which is currently being constructed in southern China - and is WSG’s first precommissioning campaign in China.
The contract successes underline WSGES’s growing reputation in the FPSO sector in Asia Pacific and follows a recent strengthening of its Singapore-based management team with the appointment of a raft of seasoned oil and gas specialists.
Working closely with its UAE and European bases, WSGES is providing precommissioning services which includes N2/Helium Leak Testing and Pressure Safety Valve Re-calibration on Yinson’s FPSO Atlanta conversion in Dubai’s Drydocks World in a JV with UAE-based Marjan Group.
A major flange management and leak testing workscope, which includes the use of WSGES’s propriety Asset Integrity Management System (AIMS), is underway on BW Offshore’s new build of the Barossa FPSO on behalf of Australia’s Santos.
WSGES has deployed teams to Vietnam, Korea, Indonesia and is working locally in Singapore where various Barossa modules are under construction, and this contract follows the completion of another project involving the supply of a commissioning lead and shutdown manager for the same client on the Espoir FPSO.
A leak repair project on behalf of SBM Offshore was recently completed at the Keppel Shipyard in Singapore on the Prosperity FPSO which later this year is scheduled to be installed on the Payara Field, offshore Guyana.
WSGES Asia General Manager, Darren Seet (pictured), said: “The FPSO market is one of our main focal points in Asia Pacific and securing these four strategic contracts, along with a number of smaller workscopes, sets out our credentials for providing reliable, efficient and solution-driven services to FPSO construction companies and those involved in vessel conversion work.
“Our AIMS software for managing large-scale integrity projects is an attractive proposition for prospective clients and can be tailored to their specific needs and scaled up depending on the size of the project.
“We are active on a number of significant tenders which if successful will be game changers for the WSGES service offering in Asia Pacific and we are already seeing the benefits of a major restructuring last year of our management team and a review of our procedures.”
WSGES have also recruited Melvin Noronha as Regional QHSE Manager for Asia and Australia regions and he will lead the implementation and development of QHSE objectives and management systems. Formerly with EnerMech, Melvin is the latest senior manager to join WSGES as it focuses on expansion in Asia Pacific and the southern hemisphere.
The company has formed a new entity in Korea and will begin recruiting staff, while longer term plans include extending its operational capacity in China, Vietnam and Malaysia.
WSGES is the largest independent provider of process, pipeline and industrial services to the UK and European refinery and LNG terminal sectors and the 1000-strong business also provides commissioning, valve services, specialist NDT and inspection services.
KR publishes research report on material compatibility for liquid hydrogen storage for ships
Korean Register (KR) has announced the publication of a 'Research Report of Material Compatibility for Liquid Hydrogen Storage on Marine Application'. This report provides detailed technical information on materials suitable for on-board liquid hydrogen systems.
Following the recent resolutions at the IMO’s MEPC 80 meeting, where it was agreed upon to steer the shipping industry towards a net zero greenhouse gas emissions goal, countries are developing zero-carbon fuels and technologies for on-board use to meet their decarbonization targets.
Hydrogen stands out as one of the most promising alternative fuels. It is a carbon-free option that can also serve as a feedstock to produce alternative fuels, such as methanol. As international hydrogen transport and trade are becoming increasingly active, the demand for hydrogen carriers and hydrogen-fueled ships is expected to rise.
For safe and efficient storage and transport of hydrogen, it must be handled in its liquid state. This necessitates a cryogenic environment. However, until now, there has been a notable lack of research infrastructure and industry understanding of the materials used in marine liquid hydrogen storage systems.
To proactively respond to the future carbon-free fuel era, KR has been conducting the Korean Ministry of Oceans and Fisheries' Hydrogen Ship Safety Standard Development Project since 2020. In collaboration with Dr. Kim Yongjin's team at the Korea Institute of Machinery & Materials and Professor Kim Jeong-Hyeon's team at Pusan National University, KR has jointly established a 'Cryogenic Evaluation Infrastructure'.
The Cryogenic Evaluation Infrastructure is the only facility of its kind available in Korea. It is designed to test and analyze materials for alternative fuels that require cryogenic facilities, such as hydrogen. In this study, it was used to simulate the hydrogen environment by conducting mechanical evaluation test at -253℃, the storage temperature of liquid hydrogen.
This research report reflects the results of these tests and establishes evaluation methods for applied materials such as hydrogen pipes and tanks, as well as standards for applied materials.
KIM Daeheon, Executive Vice President of KR R&D Division, said: "We believe that the results of this study will provide valuable guidance to industry, academia and research institutes researching and developing green ships and alternative fuels. KR will continue to support our customers and the maritime industry in various ways by developing new technologies and sharing the latest technical information to respond to environmental regulations".
The latest report is open to all interested parties and is available on KR’s website at www.krs.co.kr.
Sea and Mærsk Mc-Kinney Møller Center for Zero Carbon Shipping sign Knowledge Partnership Agreement
Maritime software provider Sea and Mærsk Mc-Kinney Møller Center for Zero Carbon Shipping have formalised their collaboration by signing a Knowledge Partnership Agreement. With the agreement, Sea and the Center become official partners, committing to a long-term strategic collaboration and contribution to accelerate the decarbonisation of the maritime industry.
Sea is a leading provider of commercial software solutions for global maritime trade and delivers data-driven solutions that power better decisions to enable sustainable shipping for charterers, brokers, and owners. It was born as a technology spin-off from the Clarksons Group.
As the Center’s knowledge partner, Sea will be providing access to its pre-trade intelligence & analytics tool that processes over 68.7 billion AIS data points annually with in-house derived insights, including visibility of activity across ports and vessel deployment. The tool can also provide emissions evaluations for analysis of green corridors and waiting times and fleet speed developments, in order to estimate emission reduction potentials.
In welcoming Sea to the Center, Bo Cerup-Simonsen, CEO of the Mærsk Mc-Kinney Møller Center for Zero Carbon Shipping, said: “Reliable data empowers us to make informed decisions. With Sea, the Center will get important insights into global fleet operations which can help us fast-track the development and implementation of green corridors, technology projects, and progressive regulatory frameworks.”
In joining the Center, Peter Schroder, CEO at Sea, said: “The Mærsk Mc-Kinney Møller Center for Zero Carbon Shipping is the leading provider of the innovation and collaboration the shipping industry needs to achieve our decarbonisation targets. Our platform will accelerate the Center’s work in enabling future solutions, concepts, and standards – including modelling viable decarbonisation pathways.
“Sea’s purpose is to power better decisions to enable sustainable shipping, so we’re proud to be joining this powerful alliance of global organizations. We look forward to working as a collective to develop the full zero carbon maritime value chain from well to wake.”
ATPI Marine Travel and Qatar Airways link up to highlight crew change logistics at LISW23
International leader in specialist travel solutions to the shipping industry, ATPI Marine Travel, and award-winning airline Qatar Airways have joined forces to sponsors the first official London International Shipping Week 2023 (LISW23) event: the Market Opening at the London Stock Exchange, which takes place at 8am on September 11.
As part of its sponsorship of one of the most important international shipping and maritime events on the calendar, ATPI will highlight its established services and new solutions designed to support seafarers travelling to and from ships, while providing a platform for crew managers to optimise costs and deliver on their company’s duty of care responsibilities.
Already at the forefront of delivering transformative solutions for its global clients, ATPI Marine Travel continues to develop new ways to meet the changing needs of modern crew change logistics. The company will focus on a soon to be unveiled end-to-end travel and crew change coordination servicing solution which promises to deliver significant cost savings along with enhanced hands-on visibility and control, improved automation and process efficiencies, prioritisation of seafarer wellbeing, and decarbonization initiatives.
“Crew change logistics requirements in the shipping community are expanding rapidly,” explains Nikos Gazelidis, (pictured) Chief Commercial Officer, ATPI Marine Travel, “and we believe that the holistic approach running through our new integrated, comprehensive and flexible service package will not only optimise workflows for crew managers and their teams, but help to improve crew retention by giving employers the opportunity to ensure wellbeing while traveling to and from work.
“We work with many airlines and in our experience Qatar Airways certainly stands out as a carrier with a great understanding of the specific and changing needs of our marine clients and individual travellers, which is why we are delighted to be joint sponsors with them for LISW23,” adds Gazelidis.
Representatives from ATPI Marine Travel will be on hand during LISW 2023 to discuss this trendsetting new approach to crew change logistics.
Silverstream books 10 orders from LNGC segment for its air lubrication technology
Maritime clean technology leader Silverstream Technologies has today announced multiple orders from the LNG carrier (LNGC) segment for its proven air lubrication technology, the Silverstream® System. This latest raft of orders takes the company’s orderbook in the segment to 36 vessels, representing a combined value of approximately £50 million, highlighting air lubrication’s viability for LNGCs of all sizes.
The orders – which come from major US and UK-based energy companies and Northern European shipowners – will see Silverstream’s ALS installed on 10 LNGCs. Six are for retrofit projects taking place between 2023 and 2025, and four are for newbuilds which will be delivered between 2026 and 2027.
Four of the orders come from an unnamed owner on newbuild 180k cbm LNGCs being built at a leading Chinese shipyard. Another owner has ordered the system for retrofit on two 174k cbm LNGCs, which will take place at either Seatrium – the newly branded shipyard formed by the merger of Sembcorp Marine and Keppel Offshore & Marine – or Navantia, depending on the vessels’ itinerary, during their five-year dry dockings.
Finally, another unnamed owner has signed for retrofit installations of the Silverstream® System on four 160k cbm LNGCs. The installations were contracted via Seatrium and will take place at the yard in the coming months, as the vessels reach their scheduled 10-year dry dockings.
Silverstream’s technology is very well-suited to the LNG segment, as LNGCs have a large flat bottom that maximises ALS’s friction-reducing capabilities. The system reduces average fuel consumption and emissions for LNGCs by 7-10% net, which typically equates to a 1MW net power saving.
The Silverstream® System can also help to reduce LNG boil-off and increase delivered cargo volume, or cut fuel consumption and associated emissions, depending on the operator’s commercial and sustainability priorities. This is because ALS can be used either to enable vessels to travel at higher speeds for the same fuel consumption, or to cut fuel consumption and emissions without sacrificing speed.
It is for these reasons that air lubrication technologies, and particularly the Silverstream® System, have become a standard choice for newbuild LNGCs over the past few years, with retrofit options now rapidly increasing in popularity as well.
Noah Silberschmidt, Founder & CEO, Silverstream Technologies, said: “We’re extremely pleased at the uptake our system is attracting from the LNG segment, as well as from major energy operators who appreciate our technology’s proven fuel and emissions saving record. The Silverstream® System is a perfect match for LNG vessels, as the natural characteristics of these ships, as well as their operational priorities, mean that air lubrication is one of the only solutions that will enable operators to achieve their efficiency goals here and now.”
Silverstream’s total orderbook now comprises 175 vessels across all shipping segments. The installations will be supported by Silverstream’s team of 120 marine engineers and technical experts. A team of 20 in Shanghai will also provide on-the-ground support for Asian installations of the technology.
Silverstream will be presenting at the Technical Conference at Gastech Singapore 2023. Noah’s session is at 14:30 SGT on Tuesday 5th September, where he will explore the performance of the Silverstream®System onboard the LNGCs that are already utilising the system. Silverstream will also have an exhibition stand at Gastech, in location BC50.
Full conference agenda revealed for Seatrade Maritime CrewConnect Global 2023
As excitement grows for Seatrade Maritime CrewConnect Global 2023, all eyes are on its topical multi-track conference agenda, which will bring together industry experts to discuss the key trends impacting the global crewing industry, in addition to specialist content for the cruise market.
Taking place from 21 – 23 November in The Philippines, which is home to a third of the world’s seafarer workforce, Seatrade Maritime CrewConnect Globalwill welcome hundreds of crewing professionals to explore and tackle the latest trends impacting the seafarer of today and tomorrow, including mental health and wellbeing, technology, recruitment and retention, training at sea, and ESG.
“As the maritime sector goes through a defining era of evolution, particularly on its journey towards net-zero and accelerated technology adoption, the crewing industry finds itself facing new and unexpected challenges,” said Chris Morley, Group Director of Seatrade Maritime.
“The conference at Seatrade Maritime CrewConnect Global has always provided the industry with the insight, expertise and essential strategies needed to overcome the challenges of today and be ahead of tomorrow. As the event now marks its 24th edition, we’re delighted to offer such a comprehensive and engaging programme once again, which will be matched in quality by our soon-to-be-announced panel of speakers,” continued Morley.
In addition to a packed programme of shipping-focused talks, the agenda will also see CruiseConnect Summit make its eagerly anticipated return. Taking place on the morning of Tuesday 21 November, the Summit will bring together a carefully curated selection of sessions, which will focus on the specifics of crewing, retention, and training seafarers for cruise vessels.
“Demand for more cruise-focused content at CrewConnect Global has grown over recent years. Therefore, we are delighted to be able to provide focused sessions for those representing the crewing interests of this sector,” said Morley.
Registration is now open for Seatrade Maritime CrewConnect Global, which will take place 21 – 23 November 2023 at Sofitel Philippine Plaza Manila and feature a three-day conference, supplier Expo and the ever-popular CrewConnect Global Awards. Super early bird rates will end on Friday 01 September, click here to book and save 20%.
WFW further strengthens Singapore disputes offering with new senior hire
Watson Farley & Williams (WFW) is pleased to announce that highly respected dispute resolution and international arbitration expert Guy Hardaker has joined the firm as a Consultant in Singapore. He was previously a long-standing partner at HFW in Hong Kong prior to relocating to Singapore.
With more than 40 years’ experience practising in London, Singapore and most recently Hong Kong, Guy’s practice focusses on the commodities and trade finance, shipping, energy, telecoms and pharmaceuticals/animal health sectors. He is the latest notable addition to WFW’s Asia-Pacific dispute resolution offering, with Partner Boon Tat Yeo also having joined the team in Singapore in July.
WFW Asia Pacific Dispute Resolution Head Steven Burkill commented: “Being able to attract a vastly experienced practitioner like Guy to WFW speaks to the way the wider market views our disputes offering. His expertise is unquestioned his practice fits perfectly with our core sectors of transport, energy and related infrastructure. I’m delighted to welcome him to the firm.”
WFW Mining & Commodities Global Sector Co-Head Sumeet Malhotra added: “Having known Guy through the market for a number of years I am very pleased that he has joined our rapidly growing disputes team. His experience in the mining & commodities space will be particularly valuable as we continue to grow our expanding footprint in that sector across the region.”
Guy commented: “I am thrilled to be joining WFW. The firm’s strong sector focussed approach and clear commitment to growing its disputes practice make it an ideal platform from which I can continue my practice.”
Nautilus calls for more seafarer training on use of alternative fuels
Seafarer union Nautilus welcomes the recent MEPC 80 meeting’s adoption of the 2023 IMO strategy on Reduction of GHG Emissions from Ships (pictured), which commits IMO member states to a goal of net zero by or around 2050. But it points out that there are clear safety implications to adopting new technologies before the safety case has been effectively proven – or before seafarers have received the necessary training and upskilling required to work with new machinery and systems.
The recent ITF report ‘Mapping a Maritime Just Transition’ has pointed to the fact that up to 750,000 seafarers will require additional training to handle alternative fuels and technologies by 2050, Nautilus notes. This will clearly be a herculean task, and a key constraint in implementing the necessary training programmes has been the lack of clarity around the decarbonisation trajectory of the maritime industry.
“Thanks to the July 2023 IMO agreement, the uncertainty around the level of ambition has now been removed,” the union says, “but we still do not know how the new targets will be achieved. Which new fuels will prevail, for example, and will radical alternatives like wind power break into the mainstream?”
As the industry grapples with these questions, it continues, one of the most positive outcomes of MEPC 80 from a seafarer perspective was the commitment to phasing out of GHG emissions in the context of a 'just and equitable transition'. This follows on from the decision approved at the Maritime Safety Committee in June to develop a 'safety regulatory framework to support the reduction of GHG emissions from ships using new technologies and alternative fuels'.
In practice, this means that the IMO will need to ensure that measures are put in place to ensure the safety of new fuels, and that necessary amendments are made to the global standards and training convention STCW. However, the industry cannot sit back and wait for regulatory change from the IMO. The targets have been set. It is now time for industry to ensure that seafarers are provided with the skills and training so they can safely deliver them.
Corvus awarded battery supply for the world`s largest !00% electric ship
Corvus Energy is pleased to announce that the Company has been selected by technology group Wärtsilä to supply the battery systems for the world`s largest 100% electric lightweight Ro-Pax ferry.
With more than 40 MWh of energy storage, it will be the largest battery system installed onboard a ship – four times as big as the current largest installation.
Incat shipyard in Tasmania will build the aluminum-constructed vessel on behalf of its South American customer, Buquebus. The large ferry, 130m in overall length, will have the capacity for 2100 passengers and crew, 225 cars, and a 2000 square meter Duty-Free Shop, all housed on one level.
“This ground-breaking project marks a turning point in the maritime industry's effort to transition towards greener means of transportation,” ,” says Halvard Hauso Commercial Director Europe, Corvus Energy. “Combining cutting-edge technology, environmental consciousness, and innovative design, it redefines the future of ferry operations worldwide and paves the way for other large, zero-emission vessels.”
This vessel will be the largest of its type with the highest ESS capacity and it will also have the longest zero-emission journey, at the highest speed, and it will be charged with the world’s highest capacity chargers. It will also be the first fully electric vessel in South America, operating between Argentina and Uruguay, says Hauso.
This project is made possible by Corvus` latest technological breakthrough– the lightweight battery, Dolphin NextGen. The design is based on the architecture of the 4-year, multi-million development program for the Corvus Blue Whale ESS. The Blue Whale development included a ground-up redesign that reevaluated and improved every aspect of battery design, including battery chemistry, mechanical and electrical design, and software building blocks. The Dolphin NextGen ESS is a game changer for marine battery projects due to its low weight and volumetric density, robustness, and unsurpassed flexibility.
The battery systems are scheduled for delivery end of 2024 and the vessel will enter operation in 2025.
DP World announces resilient 1H 2023 results with adjusted EBITDA up 7% to $2.6bn
DP World Limited has announced resilient financial results for the first six months to 30 June 2023. On a reported basis, revenue grew by 13.9% to $9,037 million and adjusted EBITDA grew by 7.0% to $2,611 million with adjusted EBITDA margin of 28.9%.
Container volumes increased by 3.1% compared to a market decline of 2.0%, the Group saying its portfolio once again outperformed the industry, demonstrating that it has relevant capacity in the right locations. A strong performance from Asia Pacific was the key driver of growth, while Americas and Europe were softer due to the weaker economic environment. Encouragingly, Jebel Ali (UAE) continued to deliver a steady performance.
DP World Group Chairman and CEO, Sultan Ahmed Bin Sulayem, commented: “We are pleased to share a resilient set of results for the first half of 2023, with our adjusted EBITDA enhancing by 7.0% to surpass $2.6 billion. Despite facing a softer container market and weakened freight rates amid challenging economic conditions, our focus on high-margin cargo, end-to-end bespoke supply chain solutions and cost optimization has been crucial in securing these results.
“Our logistics vertical has demonstrated robustness in this demanding economic landscape, attracting more cargo owners to our platform. The positive feedback to our end-to-end product emphasis the value of our customised solutions enables customers to conduct trade more effectively.
“In summary, our balance sheet remains robust, and we continue to generate high levels of cash flow, which provides us the flexibility to invest in the growth of our existing portfolio and new investment opportunities when they arise.
“While the near-term trade outlook may be uncertain due to macroeconomic and geopolitical factors, the solid financial performance of the first six months positions us well to deliver a steady set of full-year results. We remain optimistic about the medium to long-term prospects of the industry and DP World’s capacity to consistently generate sustainable returns.”
Top Glory Marine announces new Managing Director marking an all-female executive team
Leading waste specialists Top Glory Marine Service (TGM) is pleased to announce Cathrin Prikker will join the company's management team as Managing Director with immediate effect.
Ms Prikker will take up this position alongside the founder and long-serving Managing Director, Silke Fehr. The appointment marks a strong, competent and female-led dual leadership to help shape the future of TGM.
The new joint MD has been an integral part of TGM since 2019 and has proven herself to be an outstanding leader during this time. In her previous role, she has been extensively responsible for Business Development and Sales and will continue to lead these divisions in the future.
"The appointment of Cathrin Prikker as Managing Director is a significant step for TGM" said Mrs Fehr. "With her impressive experience and in-depth expertise, she has contributed significantly to the success of the company. Together we will continue to drive the development and success of TGM,” she added.
Ms Prikker has many years of experience and expertise in the maritime industry and has dedicated her entire professional life to this field. Her deep understanding of the industry and extensive network will be invaluable to TGM in further consolidating the company's leading position in the maritime services industry.
She said: "I am honoured and grateful for the trust placed in me as Managing Director. With the support of our dedicated team, we will achieve our strategic goals and continue to provide innovative solutions for our clients."
With Ms Prikker and Mrs Fehr at the head, TGM enters the future stronger than ever. The close cooperation between the two managing directors will support the company on its growth path and open up new opportunities for innovation and expansion.
TGM began its journey in June 2013 with the aim of providing sustainable and cost-efficient waste management while reducing the workload for shipowners, ship managers and the crew. With one single point of contact, TGM ensures companies’ waste management needs are managed with no additional workload to them.
Sea strengthens its offering to global maritime trade by incorporating Setapp brand
Following the acquisition of technology company Setapp in November 2022, Sea has today announced that the Setapp brand will become a fully integrated part of the business. It will operate as a second business stream focusing on custom software development for all parties in the chartering ecosystem. This means Sea will now offer both the Intelligent Marketplace for fixing freight (the platform) and Custom Software Development (services), to fullfil the needs of customers across the industry.
This represents Sea’s latest step towards helping global maritime trade digitalise, with the goal of powering better decisions to enable sustainable shipping. Improving data, processes, and workflows will be key to these digitisation efforts, and Sea is doubling down on its work to support customers in these areas. The ability to offer additional software development services to customers, as well as harness the industry and technology expertise which sits amongst Sea’s employees, makes Sea well placed to develop strong software solutions that can help improve business operations and gain efficiencies.
Peter Schroder, CEO at Sea, said: “Since we first acquired Setapp, our aim has been to create a singular strong technology organisation that has a deep knowledge and understanding of the maritime industry. At Sea, we are striving to deliver a seamless and connected experience to the maritime trading ecosystem, and the expertise and knowledge of Setapp has really added to this offering. By creating a new Custom Software Development Stream for this expertise, we will take that final step in creating a singular offering under one brand and strengthen our position as a trusted technology partner across the industry.”
Harun Duzgoren appointed Regional CEO for the Americas at Inchcape Shipping Services
Inchcape Shipping Services (ISS), a global leader in port agency and marine services, is pleased to announce the appointment of Harun Duzgoren as the Regional Chief Executive Officer for the Americas, effective September 1, 2023.
With 23 years of managerial experience in the global marine services industry, Harun brings a wealth of cross-functional expertise to his new role. Prior to joining ISS, he served as the Chief Commercial Officer of Subsea Global Solutions, a Miami-headquartered global underwater services firm backed by private equity. During his tenure, Harun played a key role in driving the company's commercial strategy, overseeing M&A activities, and reporting directly to the Board and Group CEO.
Before his time at Subsea Global, Harun spent 16 years at V.Group, where he held various senior international positions and full P&L responsibilities. He successfully managed the Group's offices in Dubai, Istanbul, and Hamburg, and led the Business Development function for its largest region, comprising Europe, the Middle East, and Africa.
Throughout his career, Harun has undertaken strategic assignments in key global markets, including North America, the United Kingdom, Greece, Monaco, Turkey, Germany, the United Arab Emirates, Qatar, Hong Kong, and Singapore. His extensive expertise in the commercial and cruise shipping industry encompasses technical ship management, crewing, commercial and technical services, and offshore marine operations, aligning perfectly with the diverse range of services that ISS provides worldwide.
Harun's qualifications include a nautical degree from the Istanbul Technical University Maritime Faculty, a MSc in Marine Management from Southampton Solent University in the UK, and an Executive MBA degree from Koc University in Istanbul. He is a member of the International Propeller Club, a respected maritime organisation.
"We are thrilled to welcome Harun Duzgoren as the Regional CEO for the Americas at Inchcape Shipping Services," said Philippe Maezelle, Chief Executive Officer at ISS. "His extensive experience, global perspective, and cross-functional leadership will further enhance our capabilities and strengthen our position in the Americas. We look forward to seeing Harun drive our innovative solutions and connect our clients with seamless operations and exceptional service."
Kongsberg Digital and Shell Marine deepen collaboration by adding LubeMonitor application to the marketplace
Currently used by Shell Marine Lubricants customers, LubeMonitor will become available to shipowners and operators through Kongsberg Digital's marketplace for maritime applications, an ecosystem of numerous powerful applications supported by Vessel Insight SaaS-based data infrastructure.
The marine industry faces significant uncertainty as it navigates the energy transition. A focus on engine condition and reliability is key to supporting customers in managing this safely. LubeMonitor combines the data from onboard oil testing, engine operating conditions, Shell LubeAnalyst laboratory results, engine inspection photos and measurements. These are used to deliver insights based on OEM recommended guidance at a total fleet, vessel or cylinder level, supporting better management of reliability and informed decision-making for customers.
Last year, Kongsberg Digital and Shell Marine penned a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU), signifying their shared commitment to expedite decarbonisation initiatives and support the maritime industry's energy transition.
“This strategic collaboration expands the range of applications available to industry professionals on our marketplace and consolidates our collaboration with Shell. We are proud to work together with Shell, sharing a passion for digital innovation and commitment to decarbonisation. Offering Kongsberg Digital clients Shell’s LubeMonitor app is a testament to our close collaboration,” says Anders Bryhni, Vice President Maritime Products in Kongsberg Digital.
“Through this agreement we are not only broadening our collaboration, but also merging our digital innovation capability with industry expertise from both companies,” says Hariharasudhan Ramani, GM Digital Innovation at Shell.
Adding LubeMonitor to the app ecosystem is an initial step of a continuous shared innovation between Shell and Kongsberg Digital, who plan to develop and introduce further marketplace applications in the future.
GAC expands operations in East Malaysia
GAC Malaysia, a leading provider of shipping and logistics solutions in Southeast Asia, has opened a new office in Kota Kinabalu expanding its presence in the region to provide solutions to the evolving needs of the shipping and energy sectors.
The new office, GAC Malaysia’s 14th, will work in close cooperation with its Labuan office in the eastern state of Sabah and provide a wide range of shipping and logistics solutions, including ship agency, bunker fuels and husbandry services, as well as bespoke logistics, warehousing and distribution operations.
The opening of the Kota Kinabalu base follows the recent collaboration between Petronas Carigali (PCSB), a wholly-owned subsidiary of Malaysia’s state-owned energy giant Petronas, and the state government of Sabah over the operation of the Samarang offshore oil & gas (O&G) field.
The Samarang field, 50 km off the coast of Sabah, produces approximately 36,000 barrels of O&G equivalent per day and 134 million standard cubic feet per day of gas. The fuel is used to support the energy needs of customers in Kota Kinabalu and Labuan.
"Sabah is poised for major growth, most notably in its energy sector. This expansion will complement our operations in Labuan, fortify our presence in East Malaysia and enable us to be a critical part of the development in Sabah," says Herman Jorgensen, Managing Director of GAC Malaysia.
Daniel Nordberg (pictured), GAC’s Group Vice President, Asia Pacific & Indian Subcontinent, adds: “The new office in Kota Kinabalu is a testament of GAC’s commitment and confidence in the Malaysian market, where we have been providing services for almost 30 years. As a leading shipping and logistics service provider with an established foothold in Malaysia, GAC is well-placed to tap into the multitude of opportunities that Sabah presents.”
The Malaysian freight and logistics market is estimated to be worth USD26.35 billion in 2023 and is expected to reach USD35.10 billion by 2029, growing at a CAGR of 4.9% in that period, according to Indian market research firm Mordor Intelligence.
In a bid to support this forecast growth, GAC Malaysia has plans to open more offices in Kuantan and Yan on the Malaysian Peninsular.
“Malaysia’s shipping and logistics sector is on the rise, driven by rising demand from local manufacturing industries,” Herman adds. “We are looking to support the country’s growth by providing our industry-leading services to our customers using Malaysia’s ports and logistics hubs, both now and in future. GAC’s customer-service first and on-the-ground approach will ensure we are best placed to provide efficient and timely services to support shipping and logistics operations.”
Titan and 123Carbon partner on carbon insetting to progress clean fuel transition
Titan, the independent clean fuel supplier and 123Carbon, the first independent blockchain-based carbon insetting platform for the transport sector, have issued the first LNG-based carbon insets, readily available to the market. Carbon insetting enables fuel suppliers and vessel operators to transfer the environmental benefits of clean, lower carbon intensity fuels throughout the maritime value chain to freight forwarders and shippers.
Carbon insetting allows carriers to share the carbon reductions of their low carbon activities with freight forwarders and shippers across the global value chain, enabling decarbonisation within their own supply chains. There are, however, strict requirements on the generation and allocation of these insets. These requirements have been defined on a global level by the Smart Freight Centre (SFC), a Netherlands based NGO, which was also involved in the development of the ISO14083-norm for transport carbon accounting earlier this year. Last June, the SFC published their multi-modal Book & Claim methodology, which deals with topics like calculation rules, additionality, allocation and reporting of insetting.
Based on this global methodology, 123Carbon will issue insets to Titan on its registry, providing the company with immutable and transferable tokens, which Titan can manage using a blockchain wallet and transfer to its customers. Every token issued on the 123Carbon platform contains all information on the emissions reduction project, including the emissions factors used, risk mitigation actions and external assurance – providing a unique level of transparency to the market. 123Carbon also partners with AllChiefs and Verifavia and will provide Titan with a robust, standardised implementation process and assurance protocol.
Titan, 123Carbon and AllChiefs have collaborated to develop a bespoke approach for (bio-)LNG ship operators and ensure that transparency and inset integrity are guaranteed throughout the entire value chain. One of the results of this approach is that the generated LNG-insets are considered fully additional – one of the most important elements that defines the integrity of an inset. This means that these specific insets were not derived by making use of local incentive schemes such as the Dutch HBE-system, they can be purchased by any party, without any concern of double counting or claiming such reductions.
Titan was the first marine company to hold a wallet on the 123Carbon insetting platform and, as a result of this partnership has now issued its first tokens for ship operators bunkering lower emission or net zero fuels like LNG or LBM (liquified biomethane/bio-LNG), in line with FuelEU Maritime standards. Titan is actively engaging carriers with an LNG-fleet to tokenise their activities and scale this solution across the market. It is also in active discussions with shippers that are seeking high quality and affordable insets that provide transparency and integrity.
Caspar Gooren, Director Zero-Carbon at Titan, commented: “Insetting can be an effective means of expediting the energy transition in shipping, which is currently blocked by price levels; fossil fuels remain cheaper than renewable fuels. The insetting system helps to finance this price gap. It forms a new carbon economy: a new system that can incentivise the use of cleaner fuel alternatives.”
“We are delighted to be working with 123Carbon to help bring this nascent tool for sustainable shipping into the mainstream marine operating environment. Through the leading 123Carbon platform, all partners within its ecosystem can have a significantly positive influence on the decarbonisation of marine supply chains. Titan wants to support and embrace initiatives that improve transparency and allow it to put a better price on carbon reductions as this will trigger vessel owners to further invest in more eco-friendly ships; the upcoming regulations from Europe will further stimulate this as well.”
Jeroen van Heiningen, Co-Founder and Managing Director of 123Carbon added: “The need for carbon insetting is clear. We now need the right tools to generate and transfer these insets safely and transparently. Our platform provides just that. We are pleased to be working with Titan and expand the scope of insets that have been generated on our platform to include LNG and LBM.
“We are proud to play a part in accelerating the decarbonisation of transportation through our trusted solution and are convinced many other fuel providers and carriers will join our platform in order to share their impact.”
Nicolas Duchêne, President of Verifavia, said: “Transparency stands as a cornerstone advantage of insetting, ensuring financial resources remain within the sector to drive enhancements. Crucially, the accountability and validation of insetting tokens and their value are prioritised, underscoring the need for precise calculations. It remains imperative that the purchase of a token signifies a legitimate reduction of carbon emissions within the sector, aligning fully with greenhouse gas protocols.”
AllChiefs, the sustainability-centric consultancy, has been advising the partners on how carbon insetting fits, and will fit, within regulations such as FuelEU Maritime and the Global Logistics Emissions Council (GLEC) framework.
Four new partners join the Silk Alliance Singapore green corridor cluster initiative
Following the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between the Maritime and Port Authority of Singapore (MPA) and Lloyd’s Register (LR) Maritime Decarbonisation Hub for the Silk Alliance (pictured), four additional members have joined the initiative – energy producer, Yara Clean Ammonia ASA; trade association, the Methanol Institute; academic institute, the National University of Singapore (NUS) Centre for Maritime Studies; and shipowner, MPC Container Ships ASA – to support the award-winning proposed project aimed at the decarbonisation of a regional shipping corridor centred on the container trades.
The Silk Alliance is focused on a regional fleet, predominantly bunkering in Singapore that also trades across the Indian and Pacific Oceans. The onboarding of Yara Clean Ammonia ASA and the Methanol Institute will accelerate efforts to better understand the fuel infrastructure considerations and bunkering capacity development required for zero-emission shipping.
The initiative will allow the fuel supply and fleet sides to overcome the chicken-or-egg dilemma in generating demand for low-to-zero carbon fuels. This ambition is further amplified with the inclusion of MPC Container Ships ASA, a leading container ship company specialising in serving intra-regional trade lanes, owning and operating one of the largest feeder fleets globally.
In addition, the academic partnership with the NUS Centre for Maritime Studies allows scope for further research work into technological solutions for the green corridor cluster, which complements ongoing scientific assessments of climate change risks undertaken by the Lloyd’s Register Foundation NUS Institute for Public Understanding of Risk.
Referencing the expanded Silk Alliance, Charles Haskell, Director of the LR Maritime Decarbonisation Hub, said: "The new Silk Alliance members can support the concerted effort of all our cross-industry partners with the aim of decarbonising the shipping corridor cluster in Singapore and the intra-Asia region. Through the implementation of the initiative, we aim for a spillover effect to the wider industry that will generate the momentum needed for shipping to fulfil its 2050 reduced emissions target."
Murali Srinivasan, Senior Vice President (Commercial) of Yara Clean Ammonia ASA, said: "Yara Clean Ammonia is pleased to be a new member of the Silk Alliance. Ammonia is one of the key potential alternative fuels identified to decarbonise the maritime industry. With our global footprint and safe track record in ammonia production, maritime logistics and trade, as well as the concurrent development of various low/zero-carbon ammonia production projects, Yara Clean Ammonia will engage closely with our partners and support the Silk Alliance in achieving its objectives."
Constantin Baack, CEO of MPC Container Ships, said: "As the world’s leading provider of intra-regional container tonnage with a strong foothold in intra-Asian trades we are pleased to join the Silk Alliance. Guided by our purpose to pursue conscious change in the container shipping industry, MPC Container Ships is dedicated to the advancement of decarbonisation of the maritime industry in close cooperation with customers and partners. The Silk Alliance is an ideal setting enabling the collaboration between industry experts to jointly tackle prevailing challenges and further develop the concept of green corridors."
Chris Chatterton, Chief Operating Officer, The Methanol Institute, said: "The Methanol Institute views the development of green corridors as critical to the maritime energy transition and we are looking forward to playing an active role in the Silk Alliance, helping stakeholders understand how they can adopt low carbon Methanol now and put themselves on a pathway to carbon neutrality, leveraging an existing supply chain and existing infrastructure."
Prof. Chew Ek Peng, Director of the NUS Centre for Maritime Studies, said: "Maritime decarbonisation is one of the main areas of focus of the NUS Centre for Maritime Studies. Joining as a new member of the Silk Alliance, we hope to contribute to the operationalisation of a green corridor in the intra-Asia region and support the maritime industry in achieving the 2050 reduced emission target."
Evergreen inaugurates Terminal 7 at Kaohsiung Port, Taiwan's first automated container terminal
Earlier this month Evergreen Marine Corp. (EMC) opened the newly built Terminal 7 at Kaohsiung Port, considered to be the most important project that Taiwan’s shipping industry has undertaken in recent years. The event was presided over by EMC’s Chairman, Y.I. Chang, and President, Eric Hsieh, with a host of local government officials and distinguished guests in attendance.
Evergreen Marine worked closely with Taiwan International Ports Corporation (TIPC) to develop Terminal 7. TIPC was responsible for the construction of the port infrastructure while Evergreen invested in operating system and handling equipment such as ship-to-shore (STS) gantry cranes, automated rail-mounted gantry cranes (ARMGC), reach stackers and side loaders.
Equipped to handle today’s mega container ships, Terminal 7 is equipped with 5 berths with a draft of 18m, quay length of 2,415m and 24 STS gantry cranes, including 19 remote-controlled ones. Among them, 16 gantry cranes are 55.5m high and can handle ultra-large container ships with 25 rows of containers on deck, effectively improving the quayside operation efficiency.
The five berths of Terminal 7 will be inaugurated in two phases. Currently, Berth S5, S4 and S3B have become operational while Berth S1, S2 and S3A are scheduled to commence operations during July 2024. When fully operated next year, Terminal 7 will allow four 24,000 TEU container ships and two feeder vessels to berth at the same time. With a yard area of 149 hectares, the facility is able to store 89,238 TEU of laden containers and 43,656 TEU of empty containers.
As the first and largest fully automated container terminal equipped with remote-controlled gantry cranes in Taiwan, Terminal 7 can significantly improve the efficiency of container handling operations. Over the long term, the terminal is expected to achieve an annual handling volume of 6.5 million TEU.
Along with these new capabilities at Terminal 7 in Kaohsiung Port, Evergreen Group currently operates dedicated terminals in Los Angeles, Oakland and Tacoma on the US West Coast; the Colon Container Terminal (CCT) in Panama; Tokyo and Osaka in Japan; Kaohsiung, Taichung and Taipei Port in Taiwan; and Laem Chabang in Thailand.
Nautical Institute Singapore annual conference returns for its fifth edition
The Singapore branch of The Nautical Institute will hold its annual conference on 27 October 2023 in Singapore after a successful event last year. Guest of Honour, Mr. Teo Eng Dih (pictured), Chief Executive, Maritime Port Authority of Singapore (MPA), will grace the event and deliver the welcome speech.
This year, the conference will be held at M Hotel Singapore for the first time, and close to 200 shipping professionals and industry leaders from the maritime industry across the region are expected to attend.
The full-day conference will kick off with keynote address by Nautical Institute, Global Vice President Capt. W.N.S.K.A.M.Wijayakulathilaka (Nish).
This year’s theme, “Seafaring in the modern, and everchanging millennium," which aims to dive into an overarching focus on the future of seafarers in the maritime industry. These include rapid improvements in technology, additional regulations, environmental concerns, and new fuel systems being introduced onboard ships.
In parallel to innovation and the future, the conference will discuss how the maritime industry can keep pace with technological advances to ensure that seafarers are adequately trained, skilled, and experienced to navigate and operate modern vessels safely.
Capt. Yves Vandenborn FNI, Honorary President of The Nautical Institute (Singapore) said: “After a resounding success last year, we are thrilled to host The Nautical Institute Singapore Conference once again. In this new era of maritime, The Nautical Institute continues to be at the forefront of driving innovation. This conference reflects our commitment to pushing boundaries and shaping a brighter and greener future together.”
He added: "With a line-up of inspiring speakers, panellists, and networking sessions, delegates can expect to make meaningful connections, learn and experience fresh perspectives, and strategies to navigate the everchanging millennium.”
A detailed programme along with the line-up of speakers will be released at a later date and interested parties can now register at:
https://reg.eventnook.com/event/thenauticalinstituteconference2023
Klaveness and Lauritzen demonstrate collaboration as key to success
Torvald Klaveness and Lauritzen Bulkers, leading global dry bulk shipping companies, are pleased to announce a collaboration move that sees Lauritzen Bulkers testing Market Manager by Klaveness for better decision-making.
Niels Josefsen, CEO at Lauritzen comments: “Over the past four years, Lauritzen Bulkers has transformed from a traditional ship owner and operator to a company with increasing focus on active portfolio management. We strive to refine our knowledge-based business model and data driven approach.”
Michael Jørgensen, EVP and Head of Dry Bulk at Klaveness, adds: "We continue to challenge the status quo for better outcomes and if we can assist like-minded operators in achieving the same efficiencies, it is only natural we share it. Collaborating with Lauritzen and learning from their feedback will be a welcome inclusion to our development process.”
Market Manager is a Software-as-a-Service (SaaS) platform crafted by Klaveness Chartering, incorporating extensive commercial expertise, and backed by its best-in-class research team. The platform enables customers to drive new value and make better informed decisions to navigate shipping markets.
PSA announces leadership changes
PSA International Pte Ltd (PSA) announces that Mike Andaloro, CEO PSA BDP and concurrently its CEO Sales and Operations, will be retiring following a fulfilling, lengthy career. PSA BDP, a wholly owned subsidiary and the cargo solutions arm of PSA, is headquartered in Philadelphia, USA.
Wan Chee Foong, currently Regional CEO Middle East South Asia and Head of Group Business Development, PSA, will be appointed as CEO PSA BDP from 3 October 2023. Mike will remain in office till the end of September to support the CEO transition process.
Vincent Ng, currently CEO Enterprise Growth / CFO PSA BDP, will concurrently take over Chee Foong’s dual role of Regional CEO MESA and Head of Group Business Development, PSA.
Hector Gonzalez, currently COO of PSA BDP, will be promoted to CEO Sales & Operations, succeeding Mike in the leadership of the key commercial and delivery engines of the business, and becoming a member of the PSA Senior Management Council.
Mike joined BDP International in 1986 and has since held several key positions within the organisation. Mike was Chief Operations Officer for BDP’s US Operations before moving to Shanghai, China, to be Managing Director of BDP’s operations in Asia Pacific. In 2015, he assumed the position of President and COO of BDP International, and in 2021 took on the role Chief Executive Officer.
After BDP was acquired by PSA in April 2022 and re-branded as PSA BDP in April 2023, Mike served as CEO of PSA BDP and concurrently led PSA BDP’s Sales and Operations to further the group’s ambition of being a supply chain orchestrator. He was also appointed as a member of PSA’s Senior Management Council.
Tan Chong Meng (pictured), Group CEO of PSA International says, “Mike is a well-respected professional in the global logistics industry and under his steer, BDP International, now PSA BDP, has grown into a leading name in the business. He has been instrumental in accelerating the integration and extending the PSA Group’s capabilities to provide agile, resilient and innovative cargo solutions. This has led to early wins, such as our appointment to be the logistics service provider for major electric vehicle (EV) battery manufacturer Automotive Cells Company (ACC), and the acquisition of a major stake in ALISAN Logistics in Türkiye.
“I would like to take this opportunity to express my deepest thanks to Mike for his many years of dedicated service and also our appreciation to him for working alongside Chee Foong to ensure a smooth leadership transition.”
DP World to invest $510 million to develop Tuna-Tekra mega-container terminal in India
DP World today signed a concession agreement with the Deendayal Port Authority to develop, operate and maintain a new 2.19 million TEU per annum mega-container terminal at Kandla in Gujarat on India’s western coast.
The concession agreement was signed between S. K. Mehta, Chairman of Deendayal Port Authority and Rizwan Soomar, MD & CEO, India Subcontinent, Middle East and North Africa, DP World. It was signed in the presence of Sarbananda Sonowal, Union Minister of Ports, Shipping and Waterways, Sultan Ahmed bin Sulayem, Group Chairman and CEO of DP World, Shantanu Thakur, Minister of State for Ports, Shipping and Waterways, at a ceremony in New Delhi.
The Deendayal Port Authority awarded the concession in January to develop the mega-container terminal to Hindustan Infralog Private Limited -- a joint venture between DP World and National Investment and Infrastructure Fund, India’s collaborative investment platform anchored by the Government of India. The concession is on a Build-Operate-Transfer (BOT) basis for a period of 30 years with the option to extend for another 20 years.
The project involves the construction of a mega-container terminal at Tuna-Tekra near the existing Deendayal Port, at a cost of approximately $510 million through a Public Private Partnership (PPP).
Once complete in 2027, the 2.19 million TEU per year terminal will have state of the art equipment and a 1,100 m berth capable of handling next-generation vessels carrying more than 18,000 TEUs. As part of this concession agreement the berth can be further extended to 1,375 m.
The terminal will connect to the hinterland through the network of roads, highways, railways and Dedicated Freight Corridors, supporting the growing demand for logistics solutions from across Northern, Western and Central India, connecting businesses in the regions to global markets.
DP World currently operates five container terminals in India – two in Mumbai, one each in Mundra, Cochin and Chennai – with a combined capacity of approximately 6 million TEUs. With the addition of Tuna Tekra, DP World will have a combined capacity of 8.19 million TEUs.
The project is part of the National Infrastructure Pipeline and will complement initiatives of the Government of India, such as the PM Gati Shakti Master Plan and National Logistics Policy. The container terminal will be fully compliant with the green port guidelines ensuring sustainability in port operations by adopting best practices of port environment management contributing towards the long-term sustainability goals set out by the Government of India.
Sultan Ahmed Bin Sulayem, Group Chairman and CEO of DP World, said: “We are honoured to partner with Deendayal Port Authority in developing this new mega-container terminal at Tuna-Tekra. It will enable DP World to deliver trade opportunities, by connecting Northern, Western and Central India with global markets, thereby driving value for all our stakeholders.
“India represents a significant landscape for opportunity. The signing of this concession agreement marks another milestone in our collective efforts with the National Investment and Infrastructure Fund to leverage DP World’s expertise in logistics infrastructure and local knowledge to further strengthen India’s supply chain to support the growth of trade and industry.”
NAVTOR partners with “K” LINE to enable 24/7 global fleet monitoring and support
NAVTOR has secured a landmark agreement with Kawasaki Kisen Kaisha, Ltd. (“K” LINE). The partnership will see the Norwegian maritime technology company supplying its NavFleet solution as a cornerstone of the development of “K” LINE’s 24/7 global fleet monitoring and support system.
Once operational, the unique facility will help the Japanese maritime logistics giant enhance the safety, efficiency and sustainable performance of its inhouse managed fleet. NavFleet will have a key role to play, seamlessly connecting vessels, crews and onshore teams with a solution that delivers real-time monitoring, and powerful operational insights.
“NavFleet builds a bridge between ships and shore,” explains Tor A. Svanes, CEO NAVTOR. “Functioning as a single, integrated platform, it shares the data necessary to build complete situational awareness of vessel operations; allowing for smarter, safer and more informed decision making.
“Working together with “K” LINE we can help them understand and act upon a constant stream of high-quality data, allowing them to address pain-points – on individual ships and across their entire, diverse fleet – and achieve the high standards they, and their business stakeholders, desire.
“We look forward to partnering with this globally respected shipowner, operator and manager on a mutual voyage of development, understanding and continual improvement.”
NavFleet launched in 2021, building on NAVTOR’s integrated digital ecosystem of performance and e-Navigation products and services. Amongst other features, the solution unites business critical data, automates tasks, simplifies reporting, and eases regulatory compliance.
It proved to an ideal proposition for “K” LINE, as Capt. Kiyotaka Aya, “K” LINE Senior Managing Executive Officer, explains: “We have very good experience of working with the team at NAVTOR, who have delivered our navigational chart management services for more than eight years. We are confident that NavFleet will become vital in developing K-Line’s global fleet management and monitoring support systems, enhancing our safety and quality management. We are truly delighted to be partners with NAVTOR and expect to develop continually improving safety and quality together.”
The partnership also has the potential to expand to encompass further NAVTOR performance and e-Navigation products and services across “K” LINE’s total operated fleet.
A special signing ceremony in Japan was attended by the Norwegian Embassy and Norwegian Chamber of Commerce. Ms. Line Aune, Chargée d’Affaires ad interim, Norwegian Embassy, Japan, said at the event: “Japan is a very valuable partner of Norway in the maritime sector and this MoU is yet another example of the effective working partnership between our countries. I want to congratulate both “K” Line and NAVTOR on this new collaboration.”
In addition to NavFleet, NAVTOR’s portfolio includes NavStation digital chart table software (with automated Passage Planning), NavBox, a certified cyber secure gateway for seamless data transfer, NavCloud cloud computing services, and NAVTOR digital logbooks.
NAVTOR opened its doors in 2011 and now offers a network of ten global offices, 20 international distributors and customers from over 60 countries.
Inmarsat ‘Connected Future’ conference during LISW 2023 aims at practical solutions for smarter, more profitable and sustainable operations
Moving from smart talk to practical solutions and bringing stakeholders together will be the key themes of an industry event organized by Inmarsat, a Viasat business, in partnership with Smart Maritime Network during London International Shipping Week 2023. Staged at Inmarsat headquarters on 12 September, the conference will focus on the increasingly decisive role satellite technology plays in shaping smarter and more sustainable shipping.
In addition to panellists from some of the most pioneering users and developers of digital solutions in maritime, London-headquartered Inmarsat has confirmed guest speaker Helen Sharman CMG OBE. Helen Sharman, who became the UK’s first astronaut in 1991, is President of the Institute of Science and Technology.
The science communicator will bring an extraordinary perspective to an event which is shaping up as the maritime technology highlight of LISW 2023.
Keynote speaker Ben Palmer, President, Inmarsat Maritime, said: “Connectivity is the oxygen sustaining opportunities for shipping to create value and cut its CO2 emissions. It supports the data-based decision-making that delivers measurable vessel efficiency gains and the transparency now demanded of shipping to drive real change on decarbonisation.
“As Diamond Sponsor for LISW, Inmarsat’s objective is to focus minds across London’s maritime ecosystem on the true potential information offers to enhance profitability and sustainability.”
The London conference is the flagship in a series of Inmarsat events focusing on the smart solutions that nurture profitability as shipping pursues its digitalisation and decarbonisation aims. In this instance, separate panel sessions will focus on ‘Enabling smarter and more profitable operations’ and ‘Enabling a sustainable future’.
In the first, discussions will home in on collaboration, technology, data sharing and balancing the imperatives of growth and reduced ship emissions. Moderated by Giampiero Soncini, Managing Director, Oceanly, speakers include Peter Schellenberger, Founder of Novamaxis, James Pomeroy, Global Economist, HSBC; Sunit Das, Operations Director at Hadley Shipping Group; and Marco Cristoforo Camporeale, Senior Director, Strategy at Inmarsat Maritime.
The second session will focus on the drivers, incentives and enablement of sustainable shipping. Participants include Mette Asmussen, Maritime Sector Initiatives Lead, World Economic Forum; Anne Katrine Bjerregaard, Head of Strategy, Sustainability & ESG at Maersk Mc-Kinney Moller Center for Zero Carbon Shipping; and Gert-Jan Panken, VP, Inmarsat Maritime. The session will be moderated by Risto-Juhani Kariranta, CEO Ahti Climate.
The conference will bring together participants from across the maritime industry, encompassing shipping companies, technology innovators, training institutions, and more. To register for this free-to-attend event, visit – Inmarsat Connected Future.
Idwal opens Asia headquarters in Singapore
Idwal, the leading provider of vessel inspections, benchmarking and analysis, is pleased to announce the opening of its new Asia headquarters in Singapore. This strategic move marks Idwal's expansion into the high-growth Asian maritime market.
The Singapore office will serve as Idwal's hub for Asia, enabling the company to provide enhanced sales support, technical expertise and superior customer service to ship owners and operators across the region. Idwal chose Singapore for its reputation as a world-leading maritime centre and strategic location at the heart of Asian shipping routes.
Idwal's expansion into Asia is driven by strong demand for its pioneering vessel inspection and grading services. The company's flagship offering, the Idwal Grade®, sets an industry benchmark for assessing vessel condition. Idwal's S&P inspections lead the market and their rigorous condition inspections enable ship owners to benchmark asset integrity across their fleet.
Idwal has already made several appointments in Singapore with Mr Bobby Lee (pictured) named as commercial manager. With deep roots in the Asian maritime community, Lee will spearhead Idwal's commercial growth across the region. Additionally, Idwal Senior Marine Surveyor Thom Herbert is relocating from the Cardiff HQ to help establish the strong technical standards for which the company is renowned. The Singapore team will also comprise further commercial, technical, operations and data analytics roles over the next eighteen months.
Nick Owens, Idwal's CEO, said: "Asia is central to our mission of bringing new levels of transparency to global shipping. Our Singapore hub gives us on-the-ground expertise to provide unmatched service levels to Asian owners and operators, and we look forward to cementing the Idwal Grade as the trusted standard for vessel condition in this fast-growing market."
The Singapore office is now open and will quickly ramp up activities. Find out more here: www.idwalmarine.com/singapore
Columbia Shipmanagement strengthens commitment to investment in people with expansion into Indonesia
The Columbia Group is delighted to announce its expansion into Indonesia with the aim of delivering its first-class manning solutions directly.
Columbia Shipmanagement (CSM) Indonesia will offer manning solutions in Indonesia and its surrounding regions, diversifying the crew pool on Columbia managed vessels and utilising the vast wealth of personnel resources that can be found there.
With more than 12million people employed in the maritime sector in the country, Columbia Group is proud to further its commitment and investment in its people with the expansion to Indonesia.
The news comes at an exciting time for the Indonesian maritime sector with a number of recent investments and developments in the region. The Indonesian commercial fleet has doubled in size since 2005, with shipping related business emerging as a leading sector of the Indonesian economy. These trends indicate the increasing offshore crewing supply emerging from the region - an opportunity that Columbia recognises and looks to utilise with the creation of CSM Indonesia.
President and CEO of Columbia Group, Mark O’Neil said: ‘It’s long been our ambition to fully establish the CSM brand in Indonesia, having utilised manning operations there for many years through third-party arrangements. We are excited to invest and foster the Columbia brand with strong local staff that share our vision.
"The Columbia Group is all about investing in the people within it, and the benefits of providing the best level of quality and welfare of our crew through our network of manning agencies are vast. We look forward to the launch of CSM Indonesia.”
ioCurrents partners with Hornblower Group to help optimize operations of NYC ferry fleet
ioCurrents, Inc., a leading predictive analytics supplier to the maritime industry, has partnered with Hornblower Group to help optimize vessel operations in Hornblower’s role as operator of NYC Ferry.
ioCurrents has been employed as part of a series of robust measures implemented by vessel operator Hornblower Group to keep the NYC Ferry fleet running reliably and efficiently, minimizing vessel downtime across the fleet.
Using clever AI and machine learning programs that analyze onboard data in real time, ioCurrents can predict equipment failures so corrective action can be identified and quickly implemented to prevent serious malfunctions or equipment damage. This data also helps with planning maintenance schedules in advance to ensure the operational reliability and safety of the fleet.
“The data analytics reports produced by ioCurrents are important tools that allow our crew to make informed decisions to improve performance and increase operational efficiencies. Using their outputs, we’ve reduced our fuel consumption by 9% through voyage optimization, lowering fuel costs and associated impacts on the environment,” said Davi Smyth, Director of Engineering at Hornblower Group.
ioCurrents has emerged as the market leader in the development and deployment of real-time, predictive analytics to the maritime industry through its proprietary MarineInsight™ platform. With a global focus, the company’s technology is used in a variety of different segments in the international shipping industry from tugboat owners, OSV operators to fishing and the cruise & leisure markets.
“We’re really proud to be working with Hornblower Group to help optimize the NYC fleet operations. Hornblower is a very forward-thinking company, always pushing the boundaries to provide its clients with the most efficient processes and procedures while keeping safety and environmental awareness as its top priorities,” said Will Roberts, ioCurrents CEO.
DNV recognises ERMA FIRST BLUE CONNECT as 'energy saving device'
ERMA FIRST, a leading sustainable maritime solutions provider, has received a letter of professional opinion from DNV categorising ERMA FIRST BLUE CONNECT as an energy-saving device and verifying its positive impact on Carbon Intensity Indicator performance.
Following a thorough review, DNV has issued a letter of professional opinion confirming that ERMA FIRST’s alternative maritime power (AMP) system, BLUE CONNECT, meets the requirements for categorisation as an ‘energy-saving device’ (ESD). In the same document, DNV recognises BLUE CONNECT’s ability to improve vessel Carbon Intensity Indicator (CII) ratings in line with regulations set out by the International Maritime Organization (IMO).
Dimitris Tsoulos (pictured), BLUE CONNECT Director, ERMA FIRST, said: “BLUE CONNECT’s official recognition as an energy-saving device that can help ship owners to improve their CII rating is a significant milestone for the product and for ERMA FIRST as an organisation. This letter of professional opinion from DNV provides evidence of the benefits BLUE CONNECT can deliver as we strive to offer solutions that facilitate regulatory compliance and support the decarbonisation of shipping and the protection of coastal environments.”
By plugging into an onshore power supply and shutting down its diesel auxiliary engines while berthed, a vessel equipped with BLUE CONNECT not only saves energy but eliminates the emission of greenhouse gases including carbon dioxide in port, thereby reducing its overall carbon intensity per transport work, Tsoulos explained. In addition to improving CII ratings in accordance with IMO requirements, the solution allows ship operators to comply with port regulations as authorities worldwide continue to develop and implement requirements for the use of shore power at berth.
As a leading global manufacturer of ballast water treatment systems (BWTS), ERMA FIRST considers the protection of marine ecosystems as its primary objective. In developing BLUE CONNECT, the company drew on the experience gained through its ERMA FIRST FIT BWTS, to create a product that goes far beyond regulatory compliance in terms of environmental benefits. Specifically, BLUE CONNECT helps improve air quality and reduce noise and vibrations in ports, enhancing health and quality of life in surrounding communities while minimising impacts on aquatic fauna.
The solution is suitable for retrofit and newbuild installations and is available in containerised or stand-alone formats. Standard models currently cater to Ro-Ro, Ro-Pax and pure-passenger ferries as well as container ships, cruise ships and tankers, but the system can be tailored to the needs of other vessel types.
An ERMA FIRST white paper ‘Alternative Maritime Power’ is available to download from the company’s website.
KPI OceanConnect appoints regional leaders to strengthen strategic customer partnerships in energy transition
KPI OceanConnect has announced a new management structure and key regional appointments to support the delivery of its partnership approach for customers. The highly experienced appointments across the business will ensure customers receive high levels of expertise when developing and implementing innovative marine energy strategies.
KPI OceanConnect has implemented a new management structure to provide additional support to the operation of its existing management set up. The new structure will see the leadership of its trading business divided into regions covering APAC, EMEA, and Americas. New regional leads have been promoted from KPI OceanConnect’s existing management team. Thomas Lee (pictured, left) is promoted to Head of APAC and James Enston (right) to Head of EMEA.
Brian Coyne will continue in his current role as Head of Americas. Likewise, the Global Accounts unit and AuctionConnect will continue as separate business ventures under the leadership of Henrik Zederkof. The regional leads will report to CEO, Anders Grønborg, and each will have full responsibility for KPI OceanConnect’s business activities in their respective regions.
Commenting on the appointments, Anders Grønborg said: “With James and Thomas taking leadership of EMEA and APAC we are significantly strengthening our Group’s capabilities and focus on key areas of our business. Both have extensive experience, expertise, and leadership skills, which are invaluable in the current market and the transition to a more sustainable shipping industry. The change in management structure will ensure we have the right resources in place at the right level to meet the changing needs of our customers.
Grønborg continued: “KPI OceanConnect’s focus is firmly on building strong partnerships and adding value to the supply chain for the green transition, and on remaining a leader in our industry’s continued digitalization. The new set up will enhance our partnership approach by bringing more specialised high-level expertise to strategic initiatives aimed at delivering innovative and bespoke decarbonisation solutions.”
Thomas Lee has been with the Group for 13 years, starting in the Company’s Singapore office as a trader before being promoted to Team Leader. For the past 7 years, Thomas has led the Global Account programme for the Group as Head of Global Accounts in the APAC region. James Enston has been with the Group for more than 18 years, most recently in the role of Managing Director of the Company’s London office since 2014. James has a background in Fuels Marketing with an oil major, and previous experience in shipping operations from the perspective of shipowner and shipbroker.
James Enston, Regional Head of EMEA commented: “I am excited about stepping into this new role and being given the opportunity to contribute to the wider development of the KPI OceanConnect organisation. I have had the privilege of being part of the KPI OceanConnect Management Team since 2014 and I am confident that with the people and expertise we have in place, we are well-placed to consolidate our position in the market and enhance our business in line with the evolving marine fuel market”
Thomas Lee, Regional Head of APAC commented: “I am honoured to be given the opportunity to take on this new challenge and lead the region. With my experience in Global Accounts, I look forward to driving our growth in the premium large client segment and continuing our success as an innovator in the fast-changing marine energy industry. I am excited to be able to further support and advance our company’s strongest assets – our people and our culture.”
Marcura Group acquires ShipServ online procurement platform
The Marcura Group announces that it has signed a definitive agreement to acquire ShipServ, a leading maritime online procurement platform and marketplace. This strategic acquisition marks a significant milestone for both companies and is expected to be finalised in the coming weeks.
Upon merging, both companies will benefit from joint talent, expertise, and a broadened solutions portfolio to deliver an innovative, customer-centric platform built for the Blue Economy. ShipServ’s 126 employees will come together with Marcura’s 850 to serve a combined customer base of 800 blue-chip maritime customers and a network of 47,000 maritime suppliers globally.
Jens Poulsen, Marcura Group CEO said: “The combination of Marcura and ShipServ creates an industry-leading vertical software, data, payments and procurement platform focused on the maritime sector. Our extensive blue-chip customer base spans the world’s largest commodity shipping, container and cruise line organisations. Both organisations share a foundation based on industry expertise and unwavering customer satisfaction, which will drive our joint product evolution, enhancing value across our customer base.
“Marcura and ShipServ are a complementary fit that will combine broad product offerings and market presence with an established platform. Our shared extensive maritime experience, dedication to excellence, and a commitment to providing exceptional customer service makes this collaboration a natural choice. I am confident that our organisations will foster a close cultural alignment.”
Henrik Hyldahn, CEO of ShipServ, emphasised the advantages of becoming part of a larger family of renowned brands and solutions which, like ShipServ, share a common mission to drive innovation within the maritime industry. Hyldahn stated: "Joining forces with Marcura will allow us to further accelerate network adoption and reinforce our positioning within the joint company’s wider platform. Our integration with Marcura will enable our team to increase the long-term strategic value and product differentiation of ShipServ’s e-procurement offerings. By incorporating additional features such as payments, proprietary compliance data and settlement workflow, we can offer solutions to the industry’s growing need for digitalisation, efficiency and compliance.”
Poulsen concluded: "Marcura's existing suite of solutions in port spend management, compliance, port optimisation intelligence, and supplier, agent, and crew payments has already established strong relationships with various departments within ship owner and operating companies. The integration with ShipServ, which serves customers in similar companies but in different departments, will yield synergistic benefits.
“Moreover, ShipServ will leverage Marcura's profound expertise in KYC (Know Your Customer) and compliance across its solutions, significantly enhancing customer experiences. Likewise, Marcura’s customers will benefit from the highly specialised procurement, logistics monitoring and relevant pricing data points integrating into our existing platforms.”
ShipServ will continue to operate as a separate company, maintaining its own brand identity.
The Marcura Group provides digital workflow solutions to the maritime industry, backed by constant operational support services and specialised cloud-based platforms managed by industry specialists. Founded in 2001 on the principles of compliance, independence and transparency, the company is headquartered in Dubai with a global network of offices.
The three current segments of the business are: (i) PortLog, voyage-optimisation intelligence solutions; (ii) DA-Desk, the world’s largest port cost management company; (iii) MarTrust, the largest maritime payment processing company for secure, efficient, and compliant international payments to crew, port agencies and suppliers. The team of 850 people includes maritime operations experts, software developers, scientists, engineers, data analysts, payments specialists and compliance professionals from 45 different countries, who are all committed to supporting 700 leading maritime enterprises worldwide.
RINA President joins Silverstream Technologies as Chief Technology Officer
Silverstream Technologies, the market leader in air lubrication technology for the global shipping industry, has announced the appointment of Catriona Savage into the newly created position of Chief Technology Officer (CTO). Catriona will lead the continued development of the innovative Silverstream® System and will further develop the sector-leading technical centre-of-excellence built by Silverstream Technologies. The new role will lead on Product Development and Application Engineering and all aspects of product quality, safety and performance.
Catriona joins Silverstream following a successful career at BMT as Technical Assurance and Capability Director, where she oversaw the business’s global Maritime, Environment, Defence & Security, Asset Management & Sustainment functions. Catriona is also President of the Royal Institution of Naval Architects (RINA) and is an Honorary Professor at UCL Mechanical Engineering, having previously held the position of Ministry of Defence (MoD) Chair in Naval Architecture.
Catriona’s depth of experience across maritime and engineering disciplines, both in industry and in academia, will further enhance Silverstream’s existing strong technical capability and help to advance the performance and uptake of its proven air lubrication technology. Her expertise in leading large, diverse engineering teams, utilising the right tools and processes to provide assurance of engineering excellence, will be an ideal fit within Silverstream’s innovative and collaborative working culture.
Catriona Savage, CTO, Silverstream Technologies said: “Silverstream’s technology is making a significant contribution to the decarbonisation of the shipping sector today. Technological innovation is at the heart of the business and I look forward to the challenge of balancing the considerable demand for the technology with forward-looking investment and development in Silverstream’s people, R&D and future product roadmap.”
Noah Silberschmidt, Founder & CEO, Silverstream Technologies, said: “I am delighted to be welcoming Catriona onboard with us at this exciting time of fast growth for the business. The appointment of such an accomplished industry leader will further cement Silverstream’s credentials as a market-leading maritime technology company. Catriona will enable us to reach new heights with the innovation, research and development of our Silverstream® System, and we will all learn and benefit from her technical expertise.”
VIKAND partners with TUI Cruises to provide biomedical calibration and certification services
VIKAND, the global leader in maritime healthcare, recently partnered with TUI Cruises to provide specialist biomedical services for 11 of the company’s cruise ships. VIKAND's role will be to source and maintain the fleet’s biomedical equipment, as well as provide capex forecasts and lifecycle management.
“I am delighted to welcome TUI Cruises as a partner, said Peter Hult, CEO of VIKAND. “Our worldwide biomedical technicians take a hands-on approach, which allows for a global rapid response 24/7. Our experienced team ensures down time for vital lifesaving equipment is reduced while improving the asset management lifecycle by preventive maintenance, resulting in reduced healthcare risk.”
TUI Cruises' decision to contract with VIKAND was based on the company’s ability to provide global support with a team of industry experienced biomedical technicians who truly understand the importance and value of functioning biomedical equipment in a remote environment, far from shoreside support. This gives onboard medical teams comfort that they can rely on a team to help them when a vital piece of equipment breaks.
Christian Lerche, Corporate Captain Fleet Operation and Health at TUI Cruises, said, “We are very excited to initiate the cooperation with VIKAND and bring the maintenance of our biomedical equipment to an elevated level.”
VIKAND’s biomedical services include device installation, monitoring, repairs, recall monitoring, comprehensive maintenance, sourcing OEM parts and more. For TUI Cruises, there are many benefits to having critical medical equipment managed by VIKAND’s experts.
First, it empowers onboard healthcare providers to focus on patients, safe in the knowledge that their medical equipment is properly calibrated and maintained. It also provides management with peace of mind to know that onboard health risks are reduced, compliance requirements are met, and capex needs are monitored by biomedical equipment experts. Together, this partnership supports a safer, more cost-effective fleet.
VIKAND provides global biomedical services to more than 220 vessels worldwide and manages more than 9,500 medical devices, with diverse services that include asset management, preventive maintenance, repairs and more.
Kongsberg Maritime appoints new leader of finance
Kongsberg Maritime has announced the appointment of Christian Bekkevold Nilsen (pictured) as its new Executive Vice President Finance. He joins the company in October 2023.
“I am very pleased to welcome Christian to Kongsberg Maritime,” says Lisa Edvardsen Haugan, President of Kongsberg Maritime. “Christian brings valuable experience and competence, and we are looking forward to bringing him onboard our executive leadership team.”
Christian Bekkevold Nilsen has spent several years working both in Asia and in other European countries in addition to Norway. He has held leading finance positions in companies like Norconsult, Nord Pool and Alstom, and most recently as CFO in Quantafuel ASA. He holds a Master of Science degree in business from Nord University Business School in Norway.
Bekkevold Nilsen will join Kongsberg Maritime on 9 October 2023, following Per Håvard Siljan Hjukse who has taken over the role as EVP Propulsion and Handling in the same company.
ABB to supply ice-classed Azipod propulsion for new polar research vessel
ABB has received an order from the Guangzhou Shipyard International to supply Azipod® DI propulsion system for the new compact icebreaker of China’s Institute of Deep-sea Science and Engineering. The ship is expected to be delivered in 2025, after which it will begin to carry out operations in the Arctic and Antarctic Ocean.
A complete electric propulsion system including two 4.5 MW Azipod® units will drive the vessel through harsh weather and thick first-year ice to enable research on behalf of the Chinese Academy of Sciences. The 103-metre vessel will have a maximum speed of 16 knots, draft displacement of about 9,200 tons, and icebreaking capacity of 1.2 metres ice and 20 cm snow at the continuous speed of two knots. The ship is designed to operate both bow first and astern in ice with an enhanced Polar Class 4 (PC4) ice-breaking level. With a capacity of cruising range of 15,000 nautical miles, it can accommodate a crew of 80 people.
The new research vessel will be equipped to China Classification Society (CCS) LEVEL 2 notation standards on digitalization and fulfill Underwater Rated Noise SILENT A notation. SILENT A notation covers vessels that are ‘acoustically sensitive’, whose underwater noise emissions are controlled to benefit data capture and minimize ecological impact. The criteria are designed to limit high frequency noise while mitigating the practical challenges of reducing low frequency noise from propellers and the main engine.
“ABB has extensive experience and a strong local presence in delivering propulsion products, systems and support we can trust,” said Mr. Guangwei He, Vice Chief Engineer of Guangzhou Shipyard International Company Limited. “Polar Class vessels represent a growing area of expertise for GSI, and we are delighted to work with a reliable partner whose reference list for proven technology in this demanding segment is unrivalled.”
“We are honoured to have been chosen to cooperate with GSI again,” said Kerry Yang, Local Division Manager, ABB Marine & Ports China. “This marks the 20th year since ABB Marine & Ports established itself locally in China and we continue to take great pride in localizing our products and services to meet regional requirements in the best possible way.”
The propulsion units supplied will represent ABB’s compact Azipod® DI range, which has been developed for both robustness and simplicity, and to offer strength and reliability in the most challenging ice conditions.
Working with shipbuilders worldwide, ABB technology has been installed on over 150 ice-class and icebreaking vessels. Azipod® propulsion system has been central in the success, establishing itself as the ice-going propulsion solution of choice over a 30-year period. With the electric drive motor situated in a submerged pod outside the hull and the ability to rotate 360 degrees, Azipod® units enable independent ice-breaking and significantly better maneuverability compared to shaftline solutions.
Orca AI to participate in second phase of Japanese fully autonomous ship project
Tel Aviv-based maritime technology company Orca AI is set to continue its successful collaboration with NYK Group subsidiary MTI and partners, leveraging its industry-leading automated watchkeeper in the second development stage of the MEGURI2040 project administered by the Nippon Foundation.
MTI, alongside sister entity Japan Marine Science Inc, is spearheading the Designing the Future of Fully Autonomous Ships Plus (DFFAS+) consortium comprising 51 Japan-based companies that will work together on the next phase of MEGURI2040.
The first phase of MEGURI2040 culminated in May 2022 with the successful autonomous trial voyage of the 749-gt NYK shortsea containership Suzaku in congested waters off Japan’s east coast. Equipped with Orca AI’s automated watchkeeper, to replace the human lookout, the vessel achieved 40 hours of navigation with complete autonomy, or around 98% of the voyage between Tokyo Bay and the port of Tsumatsusaka in Ise Bay.
Data from the integrated display was live streamed to the fleet operations centre in Tokyo, with the ship performing 107 collision avoidance manoeuvres and avoiding up to 500 other vessels en route.
Dr Hideyuki Ando (pictured), Director of MTI, commented: “Following the successful completion of the DFFAS project, we continue to develop autonomous navigational capabilities on the journey towards full autonomy. Orca AI’s advanced AI and computer vision technology have already proven to be key enablers of the safety of autonomous navigation, and we look forward to leveraging this cutting-edge technology in the DFFAS+ project.”
MEGURI2040 Phase Two will focus on demonstrating ship-shore operations using four different vessel types including a newly built container ship equipped with a fully autonomous operation system, an existing container ship, Ro-Ro vessel, and remote island route ship equipped for partial autonomous operations, as well as two fleet operation centres.
Historic Govan Drydock brought back to life
Govan Drydock, located in the heart of Glasgow, has been restored and brought back into active service over the past year and is now operational as a ship repair and maintenance facility. Earlier this year, it was awarded the contract to project manage and undertake the first phase of major restoration and repair work on the 1933-built Clyde steamer TS Queen Mary.
Now the drydock has been named as a finalist in the prestigious National Maritime SME Awards, which celebrate the outstanding and innovative achievements of small and medium enterprises across the UK maritime sector, where it is short-listed in the Coastal Communities Excellence category.
Peter Breslin, Managing Director of Govan Drydock Ltd said: “Being short-listed for this award is a huge honour and is recognition of the tireless work we have undertaken to date on the restoration of Govan Drydock.
“The project not only has protected and revived the drydock, the business viability has also been proven with the awarding of the TS Queen Mary repair and restoration project, which has brought employment opportunities and community benefits to the area.
“We have exciting plans for the further development of the drydock, which will help contribute to the ongoing regeneration of the Clyde Waterfront and breathe life into the Govan area of Glasgow.”
VIKING wins huge Hellenic Coastguard patrol boat order
VIKING Norsafe Life-saving Equipment HELLAS has secured orders from Greece’s Ministry of Shipping & Island Policy to deliver 31 patrol boats and three high-speed boats to the Hellenic Coast Guard. The orders, covered in three separate contracts with the VIKING Life-saving Equipment subsidiary, are part of an EU-backed Hellenic Coast Guard procurement program which was initiated four years ago.
Two of the contracts cover 31 boats based on VIKING Norsafe’s proven Munin S1200 hull form, with the design adapted to meet client requirements. All of them feature 2X inboard diesel engines to support service speeds of 35 knots and top speeds of 50 knots.
In the first, co-funded by the Operational Programme for Fisheries and the Sea, VIKING will supply 10 x 11.3m length, 12-person patrol boats. In the second, co-funded by the Internal Security Fund (ISF), VIKING will deliver 21 boats to uphold border controls; in this case, one boat is also being co-funded by the Ionian Islands Regional Operational Programme.
The third contract, also co-financed by ISF, covers the supply of three high-speed ‘Metis 750’ RHIBS, which will be loaded onboard Hellenic Coastguard vessels to provide rapid patrol and rescue capability. These 7.5m length, 5-person vessels will be equipped with twin outboard 200hp engines, to achieve service speeds of 35 knots and top speeds of 45 knots.
“Given the multiple stakeholders involved and the different situations these vessels will need to handle, it is especially significant that VIKING Norsafe patrol boats are once again the preferred choice for Hellenic seaborne forces,” said John Georgiadis, General Manager, VIKING Norsafe Life-saving Equipment HELLAS. “Today, as well as designing and marketing a complete portfolio of boats from 5m in length up to 60-knot interceptors, we are building the full range, including in-house GRP manufacturing and assembly: we are in very good position to have worthwhile discussions with all types of clients.”
In a period of extraordinary activity for VIKING in Greece, the contracts continue a run of success for VIKING Norsafe in support of Hellenic seaborne forces. An initial four Munin S1200 boats have recently been delivered to the Hellenic Army Special Forces, with three more to follow this summer as part of an extensive frame agreement. VIKING recently delivered eight ambulance boats to the Hellenic Coastguard and 11 VIKING Norsafe METIS RIBs to the Hellenic Navy.
“Securing these contracts is a huge achievement and a major endorsement of the reputation for excellence VIKING Norsafe continues to consolidate in Greece for the development, production, service support and crew training of its patrol and rescue boat portfolio,” added Eirik Møllergaard, Senior Sales Manager Defence & Professional, VIKING Life-Saving Equipment.
OceanScore and RWE team up to mitigate emissions risk with EU ETS management solution
An integrated solution that enables ship operators both to manage emissions liabilities and trade carbon allowances under the impending EU ETS regime for shipping has been launched by Hamburg-based maritime data firm OceanScore.
“The industry faces a major challenge to navigate the complexity of the new regulation and mitigate financial risk due to the requirement to purchase carbon credits to cover the cost of emissions, which will reach €8 billion or more annually,” OceanScore’s Co-Managing Director Albrecht Grell said.
“The interplay between owners, managers and charterers creates significant complexities unique to shipping and poses potentially significant risks, especially for ship managers, if not managed properly. Excel alone will not be sufficient to maintain transparency and control of these processes.”
The Hamburg-based firm has therefore developed the web-based ETS Manager to manage and monitor the entire process from automatically ingesting vessel operational data, assessing the need for EU Allowances (EUAs), allocating them to owners or stakeholders, requesting and accounting for them, and tracking open positions. It incorporates the advanced trading tool EUA Trader, powered by RWE Supply & Trading, to buy and sell EUAs.
OceanScore’s EUA Trader is also available as a standalone application. Furthermore, for those clients that wish to outsource management of their EUA accounts to their respective registries, OceanScore can support this by monitoring account movements through various APIs in ETS Manager.
Grell said the comprehensive solution, with a high level of automation to reduce administrative workload and possible issues with wrong data entries, is geared to “simplifying complexity” for shipping companies.
ETS Manager is rapidly gaining traction among both European and non-European customers ahead of the phased implementation of the EU Emissions Trading System (EU ETS) for the maritime sector from 1 January 2024, with OceanScore investor Döhle Group among several pilot customers, he added.
Shipping companies, as the designated Document of Compliance holder (DoC holder) under the EU ETS regime, will be required to surrender to the authorities EUAs based on their annual emissions, starting at 40% of emissions in 2024 and rising to 70% and 100% of emissions in 2025 and 2026, respectively, under the three-year phase-in of the scheme.
This will necessitate having administrative systems in place to track emissions and determine the volume of EUAs required, as well as to assign the costs of these to the owner or charterer based on the ‘polluter pays’ principle to avoid unnecessary financial exposure for the DoC holder, typically a ship manager.
OceanScore’s Co-Managing Director Ralf Garrn explained the regulation poses issues such as how to accurately monitor emissions, how to acquire and trade EUAs, which trading platform to use, how to achieve the best price, how many EUAs should be purchased and who should pay for carbon credits.
“With the clock ticking to implementation of the EU ETS, shipping companies need to understand the practical implications and initiate efficient systems to address these issues and ensure compliance. A solid monitoring solution, properly covering the many different options to deal with the ETS regime, is a necessity given the complexities of shipping and the ETS regulation,” he said.
Garrn explained ETS Manager is undergirded by a network of third-party collaborations to support a smooth end-to-end process for emissions management, from securing good quality data at the outset to ensuring trustworthy EUA trading at the other end.
By collaborating with verifiers and data quality service providers like DNV’s Emissions Connect, Seacotec, Swiss Climate and Verifavia, OceanScore ensures for joint customers that data in the ETS Manager corresponds to the final, verified annual data that are the basis for surrendering EUAs to the respective authorities, as well as allowing for a seamless, API-based data flow.
EUA Trader tracks the market price of EUAs and facilitates buying and selling of carbon credits on the RWE Supply & Trading platform through a simple, all online operation, with the ability to buy incremental volumes as needed and forward trading flexibility to hedge the risk of price changes.
EUA purchases can be made for individual or multiple ships and these transactions can be allocated to specific stakeholders in the value chain, thereby eliminating the need to conduct inter-company trades and avoiding unnecessary price/cost disputes.
Grell emphasised the importance of selecting a reliable trading platform with transparency on pricing to achieve the most economic EUA transactions and thereby minimise the cost of emissions.
“RWE Supply & Trading has a strong international reputation with high credibility and a proven track record in EUA trading, making them the ideal partner for our market-leading ETS solution for shipping,” he said.
“The feedback we are getting from the market is that the flexibility of the trading platform we offer, as well as the full integration of this trading platform into our ETS management solution, offer unique benefits to the shipping community. Our extremely competitive prices serve as an additional argument.”
MLA named as Awards finalist
MLA College is thrilled to announce its selection as a finalist for the esteemed National Maritime SME Awards 2023. This distinguished recognition stands as a resounding testament to the college’s unwavering commitment to excellence and its dedication to providing top-tier education to its students.
Securing a finalist position in the National Maritime SME Awards is a momentous achievement for MLA College. Following a rigorous nomination process, the college has been named a finalist in the coveted ‘Best Maritime Training and Education Programme’ category. This follows up on the award of ‘Digital Business of the Year’ at the Plymouth and Devon Chamber awards earlier in 2023.
Renowned for its exceptional maritime and marine education initiatives, as well as its newly launched suite of sustainability programs, MLA College offers a diverse range of courses encompassing marine engineering to sustainable maritime operations. With a profound emphasis on sustainability and innovation, the college proudly leads the charge in shaping the future landscape of education within the maritime industry.
Professor Basak Akdemir, CEO of MLA College, said: “The recognition of being shortlisted as a finalist in the National Maritime SME Awards 2023 fills us with immense pride. We consider it an honour to contribute to the growth and advancement of the global maritime and marine sectors. This nomination reflects the relentless dedication and remarkable efforts put in by our staff and students.”
The pinnacle of the awards journey will culminate at Woods Quay, London on Wednesday, September 13, 2023, coinciding with the prestigious London International Shipping Week 2023. The highly anticipated awards ceremony will reveal the winners and celebrate the outstanding achievements within the maritime industry.
ClassNK recommends safety measures for maritime transport of EVs
Classification society ClassNK has released ‘Guidelines for the Safe Transportation of Electric Vehicles’ and ‘List of Fire Safety Measures for the Maritime Transportation of Electric Vehicles’ in support of enhancing the safety of maritime transportation of electric vehicles.
The number of EVs transported by vessels has increased in recent years. However, there are concerns regarding fires in their lithium-ion batteries due to difficulties in extinguishing and the risk of re-ignition. While the IMO and flag administrations are formulating safety regulations, shipping companies operating vehicle carriers are proactively addressing firefighting measures ahead of such regulatory implementation.
To assist these efforts, ClassNK has developed ‘Guidelines for the Safe Transportation of Electric Vehicles’, which describes the characteristics of EV fires and provides guidance on how to respond, built upon dialogue with experts, operators, manufacturers, and other stakeholders, as well as comprehensive literature review. The guidelines also set out requirements for class notations for vessels equipped with additional firefighting measures for transporting EVs.
Furthermore, ‘List of Fire Safety Measures for the Maritime Transportation of Electric Vehicles’ details approximately 40 measures for early detection, suppression, prevention of fire spread, and extinguishing. To offer the information for introducing fire safety measures newly and developing related technologies, it presents not only the effectiveness and benefits but also potential issues and points to be considered.
Both the guidelines and the list will be updated swiftly in line with future ClassNK’s research findings and industry trends. ClassNK is committed to contributing to the establishment and improvement of safety measures for the maritime transport of EVs.
The guidelines and list are available on the ClassNK website.
Evolving crew challenges call for enhanced focus on seafarer mental health: Wallem
While the pandemic and crew-change crisis inspired collaborative efforts to improve crew welfare, the digitalisation and energy transitions pose new challenges for seafarer well-being, calling for enhanced focus on mental health at sea, says Wallem Group Technical Director, Praveen Shukla.
The Covid-19 pandemic and ensuing crew-change crisis – later exacerbated by the escalation of the war in Ukraine – disrupted supply chains and had a significant impact on crew welfare, leaving seafarers stranded at sea for months at a time facing acute emotional hardship. The situation did yield one positive outcome: its widespread media coverage helped to thrust shipping – and seafarers – into the public consciousness.
The crew-change crisis highlighted to a mainstream audience the critical role shipping plays in the global economy, shining a light on the sacrifice seafarers make and the challenges they face in their daily lives – and inspiring a collaborative effort from the industry to improve crew welfare, which was heartening to see.
As a result of the heightened attention on crew welfare, seafarers were recognised as key workers, and plans to include mandatory onboard internet access in an amendment to the Maritime Labour Convention were accelerated. However, while onboard connectivity has made it easier for seafarers to maintain contact with friends and family on shore, it has also given rise to an “alarming trend” among the maritime workforce.
Since high-speed crew connectivity has become more prevalent, onboard isolation has increased. Seafarers are now spending more time in their cabins on their own devices and less time socialising with their shipmates. When it comes to crew welfare, onboard internet access is a double-edged sword. Its use should complement and not replace genuine social interaction, and this calls for a renewed focus on work–life balance and rest and recreation opportunities on board.
Another potential source of anxiety is the transition to a more digitalised and decarbonised maritime environment. The changes brought by the digital and energy transitions can be challenging and stressful for vessel personnel. Upskilling and reskilling are essential to help crew manage these changes, while shipping companies, governments, regulators and technology providers need to collaborate on new training programmes and support systems for seafarers. Shoreside staff can also help crew to get to grips with new technologies.
In addition to equipping seafarers with the competencies to excel in their evolving roles, efforts should be made to ensure crew are mentally capable of handling the stresses of modern shipping with the mandatory implementation of measures promoting emotional well-being on board. This is something that can be done now, for example, there is a clear opportunity for shipping companies to provide crew with remote access to psychologists trained to deal with the maritime workforce specifically – and for this to be made a regulatory requirement.
With seafarers working long hours in challenging conditions, often with limited resources, shipping companies need to encourage a better work–life balance on board their vessels, while training and mental-health support should be among the industry’s top priorities. Ultimately, by working together, we can all make a significant and positive difference to the lives of seafarers worldwide – and this is something we will continue to strive towards at Wallem Group.
Columbia Shipmanagement and Seacon sign cooperation agreement
Columbia Shipmanagement (CSM), member of Columbia Group, has signed a strategic cooperation agreement with the Hong Kong-listed shipowner and operator Seacon Shipping Group Ltd, that will see the Qingdao-based company’s Chinese-owned and operated vessels managed as clients out of CSM’s Greece office. The vessels under management will also benefit from CSM’s sponsored Tanker Centre of Excellence techniques and practices.
The cooperation agreement, which was signed in Shanghai today (August 31st), includes all vessel types with a particular focus on Chinese owned LPG, LNG and Product Tankers.
As part of the agreement, the Columbia Group, will also provide all maritime, logistics, renewable and leisure services to Seacon Shipping.
Both companies will use the cooperation agreement to maximise existing and potential synergies as well as leverage the Columbia Group Service Platforms and client networks to optimise the operating performance of the vessels under management.
Mark O’Neil, President and CEO of the Columbia Group, welcomed the agreement and said it was crucial in bringing digital optimisation techniques to the Chinese ship owners. “We look forward to working with Seacon Shipping and see this as the start of a compelling regional proposition and offering, which provides a tailored, win-win solution for all stakeholders. By utilising the digital power of our highly effective industry-leading Performance Optimisation Control Room coupled with our group-wide digital technology, we will be able to drive enhanced value to Seacon Shipping’s bottom line.
“Seacon Shipping has also much to offer the Columbia Group in terms of regional expertise and practice. Seacon’s terrific network in China, including Chinese leasing companies and charterers, will be open to clients and partners of CSM Greece.
“The Seacon Shipping vessels will be managed by our Greece office while CSM Shanghai will continue to operate separately and independently focusing on Chinese clients managed out of China,” he added.
Zhao Yong, President of Seacon Ships Management Group, said: “The cooperation between the two sides is not only the complementary of resources, technology, personnel, etc., but also the integration of Eastern and Western management culture and management concepts. The combination of the two sides will elevate SEACON's concept of "international standards and local advantages" to a new altitude and bring new momentum to the development of the global shipping industry.
“In the future, the cooperation will integrate the superior resources and technical strength of the two sides, strengthen the digital management and intelligent control system of ship operations, improve the benefit and efficiency of ship operations management, fill the gap in domestic high-end comprehensive maritime services, and provide higher-quality and more efficient services for Chinese customers.”
Panama Canal issues update on impact of transit restrictions to conserve water levels
The Panama Canal Authority reported that as of August 29, a total of 135 vessels were waiting to transit the Canal, distributed between the Atlantic and Pacific entrances. Of these, 53 had made reservations and will transit the Panama Canal without delay on their scheduled date, while vessels without reservations would experience a wait of 9 to 10 days, up from the usual 5-day wait.
The Authority adds that while the goal is to keep queues below 90 vessels, the current backlog situation is not unprecedented and has been encountered in previous years.
Current low water levels mean the Panama Canal has implemented two daily measures to optimise water use and mitigate impacts on cargo volume. At the panamax locks, the draft remains unchanged, and the number of transits is limited to an average of 22, while for the neopanamax locks, the available maximum draft is set at 44 feet, and the number of transits remain unaffected, at an average of 10 per day.
The Panama Canal Authority adds that traffic figures show that the Canal remains the primary route for 57.5% of the total cargo transported in container ships from Asia to the eastern coast of the United States, consistent with 2022 figures.
“This figure has not decreased,” it says, “so the Canal continues to be the preferred route for the container carrier segment, which has been minimally impacted by the adjustments to draft and transits associated with the measures incorporated to conserve water.”
Jamaica’s first floating dock arrives
German Ship Repair Jamaica Limited (GSRJ), a private joint venture of German, Turkish and Jamaican investors, has welcomed its first floating dock to Jamaica.
The 215 metre-long Panamax-size dock was towed across the Atlantic by the deep-sea tug ‘Titan’ from its previous home port in Bremerhaven. The dock arrived in Kingston on August 24, 2023, and is now safely moored at its new home port at the GSRJ Shipyard in Kingston Harbour, where it will be commissioned in the weeks ahead.
Since arriving, the floating dock has been registered with the Jamaica Ship Registry, which is administered by the Maritime Authority of Jamaica (MAJ), and has now been renamed from Dock V to JAM-DOCK 1. The GSRJ shipyard has been approved as a Special Economic Freezone under the Jamaica Special Economic Zone Authority (JSEZA) and has been granted all required environmental permits from the National Environment and Planning Agency (NEPA).
Col. Martin Rickman, Chief Executive Officer of GSRJ, said: “We are extremely happy to see this multi-million-dollar project finally culminating in this historic arrival of the first dock to be commissioned in Jamaica. This provides a golden opportunity for local and international vessels to be repaired in Jamaica. This will lift Jamaica’s profile in the international maritime sphere. We already have international vessels lined up for repair in the newly arrived floating dock.”
In the meantime, additional local and international skilled staff are being recruited for the shipyard operations. This new industry within Jamaica will generate job opportunities for young Jamaicans in highly skilled technical jobs with international certification. The first Jamaicans who successfully graduated from GSRJ’s Dual Apprenticeship Program, supported by the HEART/NSTA Trust and the Caribbean Maritime University, have been employed by GSRJ. The new GSRJ Shipyard is expected to commence operations in the final quarter of 2023.
In 2015, with funding from the Commonwealth Secretariat, the Maritime Authority of Jamaica commissioned a study “Ship Repair in Jamaica”, to demonstrate Jamaica’s strategic position to viably manage and operate a dry dock for large cargo vessels.
Rear Admiral (Ret’d) Peter Brady, Director General of the MAJ said: “It is very gratifying, after so many years of planning and organising, to see the first floating dock arrive and be made ready for operation within the next few months.”
Kongsberg Digital to supply Danish training institute with Engine Room Simulator geared for alternative fuels
Kongsberg Digital is to provide a second Full Mission K-Sim Engine simulator package to the esteemed Aarhus Maskinmesterskole (AAMS). This comprehensive delivery, scheduled for February 2024, also includes three engine models to achieve specific training objectives for a range of modern propulsion and engine types.
Notably, the package features a cruise ferry model tailored to facilitate mandatory IGF code training for personnel serving on LNG-fuelled vessels.
For this delivery, Kongsberg Digital is also set to develop an entirely new engine model that harnesses the machinery configuration of an advanced hybrid-driven coastal passenger vessel. This state-of-the-art Diesel/Methanol Electric Hybrid model boasts four Dual Fuel (MDO and Methanol) Generators and a 7500-kWh battery pack, channelling power to a high voltage switchboard.
In alignment with evolving safety and environmental standards in the maritime industry, the new Engine Room Simulator model will equip students with unparalleled proficiency in managing Hybrid power systems, methanol bunkering, and methanol-powered engines. A paramount focus of the training will be on the safe handling of low flash point fuels, mitigating risks not only to personnel but also to the delicate marine ecosystem.
Are Tjønn Føllesdal, Managing Director of Maritime Simulations at Kongsberg Digital, commented: "At Kongsberg Digital, we are dedicated to shaping the future of maritime industry and education. Our collaboration with Aarhus Maskinmesterskole underscores our commitment to empowering the next generation of maritime professionals with the knowledge and skills required to operate the complexities of the new engine types required for more sustainable sea transport."
Lecturer Flemming Hauge Pedersen at AAMS added: "The innovative K-Sim Engine models will equip our students to confidently manage engine systems across a diverse range of vessels, including the most advanced ones. By training on models encompassing LNG, Methanol, and Battery-powered propulsion, our students are poised to lead in the era of next-generation green shipping."
Change in MENAS Navigational Light Dues to ensure future of Aids to Navigation in Middle East Gulf
After years of keeping a vital navigation service operating on the same income, Middle East Navigation Service (MENAS) has been forced to review its funding, to ensure it can continue to help keep seafarers safe and protect the marine environment in the Middle East Gulf.
MENAS has been providing Aids to Navigation (AtoN) in the Middle East Gulf – one of the busiest trade lanes in the world – since 1951, supplying seafarers with essential information regarding the location, route, and configuration of obstacles and hazards.
MENAS covers the cost of operating and maintaining such AtoN, which include buoys, lighthouses and racons, through the collection of Navigational Light Dues, or Nav Dues, as they are more commonly known. Paid by shipowners relative to their net tonnage on their vessels’ first port of entry into the Gulf, the dues have remained at the same level since 2006.
However, the cost of providing MENAS Nav Aids has increased, particularly in the last two years, compounded by the increase of the input costs (material, energy, salaries, etc.) as well as the need to replace some major equipment such as DGPS transmitters.
MENAS has therefore had to make the difficult decision to change its charges. The new tariff includes an increase in the rate and the widening of the group of ships which will be asked to pay for the service.
“We have worked very hard to keep the Nav Dues charges at the same level since 2006 but due to the rising costs involved, we feel we have no other option than to increase them, because we want to provide the same services at the same quality,” says Peter Stanley, CEO of MENAS’ parent organisation, International Foundation for Aids to Navigation (IFAN).
“Without change, the income we receive would not be enough to fund the service sufficiently, compromising safety and the future of MENAS AtoN. I appreciate the extra cost may not be welcomed by shipowners, but we have to implement the tariff charge to ensure the safe navigation of vessels in the Gulf and the protection of the region’s marine environment.”
He adds: “We know that reputable shipowners will be committed to good safety standards, also bearing in mind SOLAS Chapter V obligations, and trust they will understand the reasons for these changes.”
Though MENAS undertakes contract work for third parties as a way of helping to reduce Nav Dues to shipowners, all services provided by MENAS are paid for by these dues.
The new tariff will be implemented on 1st October 2023 and is reviewed annually.
In recent years, MENAS has witnessed a trend of using smaller vessels, which currently do not pay dues, and some of these frequent users have quite significant fleets. MENAS believes it is only fair that these should now contribute towards the services that it provides, and it will be asking for payment from all owners/charterers of vessels above or equal to 8,000 net tonnes in the future when they, make their first port call in the Middle East Gulf.
“Aids to Navigation provided by MENAS reduce the risk for this area in accordance with SOLAS Chapter V provisions so these payments are for a vital marine safety service which is essential for safe transit in the complex Gulf waters,” says Mr Stanley.
“We trust that owners, vessels and their masters will understand this and the need to support their long term, reliable operation," he concludes.
IUMI publishes ‘Best practice & recommendations for the safe carriage of electric vehicles’
There are growing concerns within the shipping community, including marine underwriters, about fires breaking out on car carriers and roros with the assertion that many of these fires are attributable to electric vehicles. In response, the International Union of Marine Insurance (IUMI) has researched these claims and published recommendations on the safe carriage of electric vehicles (EVs).
Lars Lange, IUMI Secretary General, explains: “Our paper draws on a body of scientific research which demonstrates that fires in battery EVs are not more dangerous than fires in conventional vehicles, nor are they more frequent. Although statistics continue to be gathered, they currently estimate that, in general, there are fewer fires from EVs compared with fires from conventional vehicles when driven over the same distance.”
Research also proves that there is only a minor difference between total energy released during an EV fire and one that is related to an internal combustion engine vehicle (ICEV). Once established, vehicle fires are largely (approx. 80%) fuelled by the car body and interior parts rather than the propulsion system.
However, the potential for thermal runaway (when the battery suffers an unstable chemical reaction) exists for EVs whereas it is not a consideration for ICEVs. Thermal runaway makes fires hard to extinguish, hence mitigation measures such as boundary cooling must be employed rapidly. Moreover, the risk of re-ignition is higher for an extended period of time.
In the paper, IUMI makes important distinctions between roros and pure car and truck carriers (PCTCs) noting that many roros will stow cars on open decks where air flow makes fire-fighting more challenging. Ropax vessels (where passengers are also carried) present additional issues such as passengers wanting to charge onboard and the possibility of cars being loaded that are older and potentially less safe. Conversely, PCTCs tend to carry vehicles tightly packed leaving little room for emergency access and facilitating the rapid spread of a fire.
In light of this, IUMI concludes:
• Early fire detection and verification/confirmation is critically important to reduce the time between detection and firefighting response to a minimum. Options, in addition to the conventional systems, could include thermal imaging cameras and AI powered systems.
• Drencher systems are effective for fire-fighting onboard roro and ropax vessels both for EV and ICEV fires and should be installed alongside video monitoring systems.
• CO2 extinguishing systems, if applied quickly, are successful in fighting PCTC fires and their capacity should be doubled. High-expansion foam fire extinguishing systems have also proved to be effective to prevent heat transfer from one vehicle to another.
• Early detection, confirmation and a short response time are crucial to fight a fire successfully. On board PCTCs, fixed systems should always be applied before manual fire-fighting is employed.
• A clear policy is required on which cargo is accepted or rejected. Vehicles should be screened with used vehicles being checked carefully for hidden damage.
• Charging onboard ropax vessels should be permitted subject to relevant risk assessments and control measures. Safety mechanisms built into EVs are usually activated during charging.
The IMO’s Sub-Committee on Ship Systems and Equipment (SSE) will start work on the ‘Evaluation of adequacy of fire protection, detection and extinction arrangements in vehicle, special category and ro-ro spaces in order to reduce the fire risk of ships carrying new energy vehicles’ beginning in March 2024.
Lars Lange concludes: “The regulatory process will be an opportunity to improve safety requirements making them fit for the new reality of large numbers of alternative fuel vehicles being carried on board vessels. IUMI will continue to contribute to this debate.”
The full IUMI paper is available at https://iumi.com/opinions/position-papers
An IUMI podcast on this subject was recorded today and features Martti Simojoki from IUMI’s Loss Prevention Committee and Hendrike Kühl, IUMI’s Policy Director. Listen to the podcast here https://iumi.com/news/podcast
Study finds that ammonia-powered gas carriers could be commercially viable by as early as 2026
A new analysis from the Global Maritime Forum has found that the cost gap between operating ships on zero-emission ammonia and conventional fuel could be closed before 2030 and possibly as early as 2026.
Ammonia is increasingly seen as an important solution for decarbonising the shipping sector, given its high scalability and potential for use on long-distance shipping routes. For the time being, however, ammonia-powered gas carriers are seen as significantly more expensive to own and operate than conventional gas carriers.
As part of the Nordic Green Ammonia Powered Ships (NoGAPS) project, co-funded by Nordic Innovation, a new study from the Global Maritime Forum explores options for addressing those cost concerns. The analysis looked at the pathways for commercialising early ammonia-powered vessels like M/S NoGAPS – an ammonia-powered gas carrier designed to operate between the US Gulf and Northwestern Europe that has been awarded Approval in Principle1 from the maritime classification society DNV. It found several measures that could significantly reduce the current cost delta between ammonia and conventional fuel and reduce commercial risks for M/S NoGAPS and similar projects.
‘’Since 2020, the NoGAPS project has brought together key industry leaders to progress an ammonia-powered gas tanker concept towards real-world implementation,” says Jesse Fahnestock, Project Director, Global Maritime Forum. “With the completion of this latest project phase, we not only have a detailed ship design that could be used for a shipyard tender but also a feasible commercialisation pathways. We hope this boosts confidence amongst charter parties and investors to take steps towards the realisation of M/S NoGAPS and other ammonia-powered vessels.”
Reducing the elevated costs and related commercial risks of early ammonia-powered vessels is currently the primary barrier to finding suitable and competitive finance for projects like M/S NoGAPS. The new analysis identifies several methods for responding to this challenge. These include dual-fuel vessel design, competitive debt financing arrangements, operational efficiencies, fuel subsidies, and governmental regulation. The US Inflation Reduction Act (IRA) and the EU’s Fit for 55 Package, for example, would reduce the cost of owning and operating M/S NoGAPS by 20% and 10%, respectively.
The most effective way to reduce the cost gap between ammonia and conventional fuel is to pull on numerous cost-reduction levers simultaneously. For example, in a scenario in which M/S NoGAPS runs on a route between the US Gulf and Northwestern Europe, exclusively bunkers US ammonia, applies Fit for 55 measures and IRA subsidies, and maximises operational efficiencies, the cost gap could be closed as early as 2026 and the vessel could also approach cost parity by 2030.
TMS’ inaugural Transport and Climate Change Conference in Abu Dhabi assembles stellar line-up of speakers
The inaugural TMS Transportation and Climate Change Conference (TACCC) is being held on 27th September at the Saadiyat Rotana Resort in Abu Dhabi (pictured) and will feature an array of high-profile speakers. The event, organised by The Maritime Standard, takes place ahead of the UAE hosting the COP28 climate change conference beginning end-November this year.
TACCC’s opening session, which will be introduced by Sky News’ Yalda Hakim, will feature some of the most influential figures within shipping, maritime and land and air transportation in the region. Representing the hosts, AD Ports Group, Capt. Mohamed Juma Al Shamisi, Managing Director and Group CEO, will deliver the keynote address, setting the tone for what will be an extremely informative and stimulating day.
Following the keynote address, the Session 1 panel, will have the theme ‘Setting the course for a sustainable future’. This will feature presentations by senior executives, all of whom are at the forefront of driving change in their respective sectors. Speakers in this all-important session include Abdulla Bin Damithan, CEO & Managing Director, DP World GCC; Capt. Abdulkareem Al Masabi, CEO, ADNOC Logistics & Services; James Frew, Global Head of Business Advisory- Decarbonisation Lead, Lloyd's Register; Eng. Yasser Nasr Zaghloul, Group CEO, National Marine Dredging Company; Abdullah Al Hameli, CEO, Economic Cities & Free Zones Cluster, AD Ports Group; and Sanjay Mehta, Chairman, S One Capital.
After a Q&A session and lunch, the afternoon will get going with Session 2, chaired by Sanjay Mehtha, which will focus on ports and logistics and the vital role that these sectors have to play in reaching climate change targets. An impressive line-up of speakers includes Capt. Ammar Al Shabia, CEO of Maritime Cluster & SAFEEN Group, AD Ports Group; Emile Hoogsteden, CEO, Sohar Industrial Port Company; Matthew Luckhurst, Managing Director, APM Terminals Bahrain; Jonathan Andrews, CEO, Steamship Mutual; Antonio Campoy, CEO, Noatum Group; Gonzalo Conseco, Director, Research & Development, OnePoint5 & Former Senior Advisor to the Secretariat of the UNFCCC; Mohammad Jaber, Managing Director, DSV Air & Sea Abu Dhabi & COO, DSV Solutions Abu Dhabi; and Carlos Guerrero Pozuelo, Global Market Leader for Gas Carriers & Tankers, Bureau Veritas Marine & Offshore, lined up as speakers in a session that will look at "Redesigning operations and technology for a greener future.”
Ending the event on a high, Session 3 will focus on ‘Navigating the operational, technological, legal and financial hurdles to change’. Moderated by leading maritime lawyer, Rania Tadros of Stephenson Harwood, confirmed speakers include Emil Pellicer, General Counsel, AD Ports Group; Ravi Jawani, Partner, Fichte & Co; Farooq Zuberi, CFO, APM Terminals Bahrain; and Vijay Arora, Managing Director, Indian Register of Shipping; with another 3 speakers awaiting confirmation.
TMS Managing Director, Trevor Pereira, says: “Climate change is clearly the most important issue facing shipping and maritime at the moment and this is reflected in the calibre of those who are speaking at this inaugural TACCC. Those attending will be treated to topical insights from those who are reshaping regional policy, as well as a chance to network with those who are at the top of their respective sectors.”
Trevor pays tribute to the support of the event sponsors, who include AD Ports Group, ADNOC Logistics & Services, National Marine Dredging Company, Sohar Port and Freezone, Islamic P&I Club, Saifee Ship Spare Parts & Chandlers, Alligator Shipping Container Line, Al Raiya Group, Stephenson Harwood and Monjasa. He adds, “These are all companies committed to delivering change and leading the way for the industry as it strives to meet IMO deadlines regarding reducing carbon emissions. We are extremely grateful for their commitment to this event, which we hope will be a beacon for progress in this vitally important area of concern.”
For more information about the programme and how to register to attend please go to: https://tmstaccc.com
ClassNK opens new survey office in Paranagua, Brazil
ClassNK has opened a new exclusive survey office in Paranagua, Brazil with operations beginning 1 September 2023.
Paranagua, located in southern Brazil, ranks among the premier port cities in the country and has recently been expanding its port facilities. Recognizing the increasing number of surveys and audits in the port and the neighbouring region, ClassNK has taken the initiative to open its newest office, aiming to provide more streamlined service.
ClassNK remains committed to enhancing its worldwide network of survey offices to meet its clients’ requests and offer timely and high-quality services.
Separately, ClassNK hasr just released ‘Guidelines for Liquefied Hydrogen (LH2) Carriers (Edition 2.0)’, which cover essential details to examine the safety of liquefied hydrogen carriers to spur related technological developments.
100-day countdown to Marintec China 2023 begins
Marintec China announces that this year’s event is scheduled to take place from 5-8 December 2023 at the Shanghai New International Expo Centre, with visitor pre-registration now open.
In response to the overwhelming demand received from prospective attendees in May 2023, Marinted China says it has expanded capacity by activating all eight halls from N1 to N3 and W1 to W5.
To date, there are 15 confirmed country/region pavilions, from Austria, China, Denmark, Finland, Germany, Hong Kong SAR, Japan, Korea, Norway, Singapore, Sweden, Swiss, Taiwan Region, The Netherlands and UK.
Key exhibitors include ABB, Hyundai Heavy Industries, Kawasaki Heavy Industries, Kongsberg Maritime, MacGregor, Mitsubishi Heavy Industries, Rolls-Royce Solutions, Siemens Energy, Tsuneishi Group Shipbuilding, Ulstein Group, and Wärtsilä.
Intermarine and Jumbo-SAL-Alliance expand business and set up new hub in Chile
Multipurpose carrier Intermarine and sister company Jumbo-SAL-Alliance (JSA) are expanding their presence in South America, opening a new office in Santiago. JSA–Intermarine Chile is led by General Manager Nelson Matus.
The last few years have been dynamic and exciting for Intermarine and Jumbo-SAL-Alliance – and 2023 is just as eventful. With more industrial projects on the horizon, especially wind energy, Intermarine and JSA are taking advantage of the positive momentum and expanding in South America.
Intermarine and Jumbo-SAL-Alliance are joining Intermarine’s long-time agent, Marval, to form the new subsidiary JSA-Intermarine Chile. The first office to carry the name of both companies will be led by Nelson Matus, a veteran in the South American breakbulk and multipurpose sector with over 25 years of experience. Matus and his five-person team will take the lead in expanding the new Chilean business base.
“I’m extremely pleased that Nelson and his team are part of the Intermarine-JSA family. They have tremendous experience in the heavy lift and logistics business,” says Intermarine CEO Svend Andersen. “Intermarine and Marval have already collaborated successfully for many years now in South America. We’re excited to join forces and further expand our group presence in the region.”
Jens Baumgarten, Director Chartering & Projects at Jumbo-SAL-Alliance, explains: “Chile plays a significant role in South America due to its stable economy, geographic location, extensive raw material exports, reliable infrastructure and project outlooks, particularly in wind energy. The potential in the South American market and in Chile specifically is enormous, especially when it comes to the wind sector.”
“Our new joint branch gives customers access to the unique combination of Intermarine’s very strong Americas liner services and breakbulk business as well as JSA’s global project and semi-liner services”, adds Intermarine’s President Richard Seeg.
“We are very excited to join this ambitious and winning team,” stresses Nelson Matus. “The vibrant spirit, outstanding reputation and quality, and combined fleet of +50 vessels inspired us to take this wonderful opportunity.”
When SAL Heavy Lift took ownership of Intermarine back in late 2020, they followed a long-term strategy of developing the two enterprises as closely associated sister companies with different business models and offerings. This approach has proven highly successful. Intermarine’s business has thrived alongside SAL’s, showing the complementary nature of the fleets and service offerings, the new office in Chile being a good example of this success.
For Harren Group, Intermarine’s and SAL’s parent company, the branch is the 25th office worldwide. Harren Group CEO Dr Martin Harren explains: “It’s truly exciting to make our next strategic move: opening an office that represents both Intermarine and JSA with such an experienced and long-term partner as Marval. Everyone at Harren Group is proud to see Intermarine and JSA take this next step on their shared journey. This expansion not only strengthens our local business. It also elevates our global portfolio and the presence of our entire group.”
The new JSA-Intermarine Chile office (chile@intermarine.com, +56 2 2352 3400) is located in the World Trade Center in Las Condes (Nueva Tajamar 481, 14th Floor, office 1405, Tower South), conveniently located near Santiago’s major business centres.
Grimaldi Group takes delivery of second multipurpose G5-class con-ro
With the delivery of the Great Lagos vessel, which took place on 30 August at the Hyundai Mipo Dockyard Co. Ltd. in South Korea, the Grimaldi Group fleet now includes two con-ro multipurpose units of the modern ‘G5’ class. Sistership Great Antwerp (pictured) was introduced earlier this year.
The new vessel is named after the city of Lagos in Nigeria: its port has been served for decades by the Neapolitan shipping company within its maritime links between Europe, North and South America, and West Africa. In addition, the Grimaldi Group currently operates there the largest ro-ro multipurpose terminal in West Africa.
With length of 250 metres, beam of 38 metres and deadweight of 45,684 tonnes, the design of the Great Lagos is the result of a careful study of the needs of the Group and its customers: thanks to an innovative and completely customized internal configuration, the G5-class ships are able to transport 4,700 linear metres of rolling freight, 2,500 CEU (Car Equivalent Units) and 2,000 TEU (Twenty Foot Equivalent Units). Compared to the previous G4-class, the new vessels have the same capacity for rolling freight while their container capacity is double.
In addition to loading capacity, the Great Lagos stands out on account of her numerous cutting-edge, technological solutions aimed at increasing energy efficiency and reducing environmental impact. Both the main engine and the auxiliary diesel generators will meet the NOx levels imposed by the Tier III regulation, while the integrated propulsion system between rudder and propeller will minimize vortex losses and, consequently, optimize propulsive efficiency and reduce fuel consumption.
The vessel is designed for cold ironing with shoreside supply of electricity (where available) as a green alternative to the consumption of fossil fuels during port stays. Furthermore, the electrical consumption of on-board machinery (pumps, fans, etc.) is reduced thanks to the installation of variable frequency drive devices, while the application of innovative, low friction paints reduces hull resistance, thus increasing efficiency. Last but not least, the ship is equipped with hybrid exhaust gas cleaning systems for the abatement of sulphur and particulate emissions.
As proof of her high energy and environmental efficiency, the Great Lagos enables a reduction of CO2 emissions per tonne transported of up to 43% compared to other Grimaldi con-ro multipurpose ships.
Starting from late September, the new vessel will be deployed to further enhance the quality of maritime transport services offered by the Grimaldi Group between Northern Europe and West Africa. The other four G5-class units, to be delivered between 2023 and 2024, will also operate on the same routes.
“Our G5-class of ships represents an innovative, efficient response to the demand for increasingly high quality and, at the same time, environmentally friendly maritime services,” said Gian Luca Grimaldi, President of Grimaldi Group S.p.A. “We have proven this in recent months with the deployment of the Great Antwerp – the first unit of this series – and it will be even more evident with the arrival of the Great Lagos and the other four sister units currently under construction.
"Our commitment and investments continue to generate tangible results and satisfaction in our customers, and step by step they bring us closer to the major, primary objective of the green transition of shipping."
Leading industry voices to gather at IRS Round Table during London International Shipping Week 2023
Indian Register of Shipping (IRS), a leading classification society and member of IACS, is proud to announce a gathering of prominent industry voices at the IRS Round Table during London International Shipping Week 2023. The focus of round table discussion will centre around the theme ‘Seascape 2030 – Decarbonisation and the Human Element’.
Set to take place at 10:00am on 12th September in Rubens at the Palace, the panel will be led by top industry voices. The distinguished lineup of speakers includes shipping economist Dr Martin Stopford; Savraj Mehta representing North Standard; Lee Martindale from Wartsila; and Cara Carter of Halcyon Recruitment. They will be joined by IRS’ Executive Chairman, Arun Sharma, and Managing Director, Vijay Arora. Navigate PR’s Penny Thomas will moderate the conversation.
“The transition to a new fuel ecosystem and the onset of technological advancements will likely have a profound impact on the future workforce,” said Arun Sharma (pictured), Executive Chairman, IRS. “The critical role of the human element in the development of sustainable technology and systems cannot be emphasised enough. We look forward to gaining industry insights and discussing how all stakeholders can collectively address the challenges that lie ahead.”
In addition to the Round Table, Indian Register of Shipping will also host a Technical Seminar on 13th September at 9:00am at the Little Ship Club, Upper Thames Street, London which will focus on Decarbonisation, Alternate Fuels & Human Element.
If you wish to join us at these events, kindly send an email to bizdev@irclass.org
Alu Design and Modell Møbler combine to create the industry’s first ‘bow to stern’ premium seating supplier
In a deal financed by Scuderia AS, Alu Design, a leading provider of high-performance pilot chairs has acquired Modell Møbler, a manufacturer of high-end marine furniture.
The new company, operating under the name Seat Innovation, serves as an umbrella organization to manage the design, production, marketing, sale and delivery of Alu Design and Modell Møbler seating solutions. Funding for the transaction was provided by Scuderia AS, a privately-held company in Kristiansand, Norway.
According to Einar Ulrichsen, CEO of Seat Innovation, the synergies between Alu Design and Modell Møbler were hard to miss. “Both brands are recognised by customers and shipyards around the world for excellent service and for developing seating solutions that deliver on quality, innovative design, comfort, solid construction and durability,” he says. “In fact, there are vessels in operation today that have bridge chairs and marine furniture supplied by both companies. Now that we have joined forces, we can offer customers a ‘one stop shop’ for all their marine seating requirements, front to back.”
Ulrichsen adds that all Seat Innovation products will be manufactured in a single factory located in Kristiansand, Norway. “By merging production units, we can share design and technical competencies, improve production efficiency and shorten delivery times,” he says. “The transfer of equipment, systems and personnel will be a complex process, but we do not anticipate any delays filling existing or new orders.”
Both companies have a recognised track record of innovation. With origins that date back to the 1950s, Modell Møbler pioneered injection plastic moulding, a technology that inspired designers around the world, including the Danish designer, Arne Jacobsen, who created the iconic “Egg Chair.” Established in 2008, Alu Design’s futuristic bridge chairs have been featured in television and film action and sci-fi series, including the Star Trek, Transformers and Marvel Cinematic Universe franchises.
For Ulrichsen, creating Seat Innovation will help shipyards, operators and owners to reduce complexity and costs related to managing multiple suppliers. “We are confident that the new organization will not only enable us to streamline the development, production and marketing of ‘bow to stern’ seating solutions but create genuine value for customers,” he says. “Alu Design and Modell Møbler already have a strong market presence but together, we are greater than the sum of our parts!”
AntwerpXL 2023: Breakbulk conference shaping up to be ‘unmissable’
The world’s only event dedicated exclusively to breakbulk, project cargo and heavy lift, returns to the Antwerp Expo, Belgium, from 28 - 30 November. The AntwerpXL conference will cover the most pressing global themes with talks from the industry’s leading lights.
Day One features sessions including: Project Cargo – Managing the offshore renewable boom; Ports – Being a one-stop-shop for breakbulk; Sustainability – Decarbonising heavy lift; and Current Market – How geopolitics is impacting the supply chain.
On the panel discussing the management of offshore renewables will be Neil Golding, Head of Market Intelligence at Energy Industries Council, alongside Thomas Mehl, Board Member at Claviate. Meanwhile Linda Jacques, Partner, and Lawyer at LA Marine, is set to offer deep insight on the panel examining state of the Current Market.
Day Two features sessions including: Digitalisation & AI – How will AI impact the supply chain; Recruitment – Making breakbulk an attractive career for new generations; Sustainability – How stakeholders collaborate for supply chain sustainability.
Co-founder and COO of Voyager Portal, Bret Smart is a confirmed panellist on the session for Digitalisation and AI. The Recruitment panel includes input from previous AntwerpXL 40 Under 40 Winner and Managing Director at Trans Coral Shipping, Mahesh Singh. Panel members for Sustainability include Inge Taillieu, BDM at DP World, and Jessica Slater, Solicitor at LA Marine.
Margaret Dunn, Portfolio Director at AntwerpXL, says: “The Collins English Dictionary chose ‘permacrisis’ as the most recent Word of the Year. Every breakbulk professional can relate; the external pressure on industries like ours is immense.
“But necessity is the mother of innovation, both in terms of technology, but also in thinking. The AntwerpXL conference offers insight and new ideas, bringing everyone together to enhance our collective knowledge so we can tackle the challenges of the present and future. It will be utterly unmissable!”
Marketing in Maritime to bring top AI influencers to LISW23
Marketing in Maritime, the one-of-a-kind event for media and communications professionals in the marine and energy sectors, is set to deliver an unmissable event at London International Shipping Week next week on Wednesday 13 September.
Focusing on the highly topical subject of AI in marketing, the event will feature two world-leading AI influencers in its first in-person event of the decade. The keynote speaker is Danilo McGarry, ranked as one of the 20 most influential people in AI in the world. With two decades of designing, delivering and scaling global technology strategy at board level in his resume, Danilo will explore the future of AI and digital tech in marketing communications.
Joining Danilo on the Marketing in Maritime stage will be Richard Norton (Norts) who will give the topic an artistic twist and consider the mastery of creative AI. A renowned concept cruncher and innovator, Norts will share his insights following six years as a creative AI practitioner.
Founded by maritime marketing specialists Wake Media in 2018, along with close collaborators Bray Leino and Oakwood Agency, Marketing in Maritime has fast earned a reputation as a unique and progressive community hub for people working in the sector.
“We are all so excited to be bringing a live Marketing in Maritime event to London International Shipping Week,” says Andy Ford (pictured), Managing Director at Wake Media. “Everyone is talking about AI and its potential to revolutionise marketing technology, so we were compelled to put AI in the spotlight as our event theme this year. Our speakers and panellists are known throughout the world and we can promise maritime marketers an inspiring afternoon that will enable them to stay ahead of the curve on this game-changing topic.”
Marketing in Maritime 2023 will take place at the Informa HQ in Blackfriars at 4pm on Wednesday 13thSeptember and is free to attend for maritime marketing professionals.
The event will feature a panel of industry experts discussing AI’s impact on maritime marketing, followed by a Q&A looking ahead to marketing in maritime in 2024 and beyond. A networking reception with live music will bring the thrilling event to a close.
With the limited seats being snapped up fast, book here now to avoid disappointment: mimcrowd.com/events/2023/.
ABS explores LNG value chain in latest publication
The upstream, midstream and downstream operations of the LNG value chain are analysed along with the latest trends and innovations in a new publication from ABS.
‘Examining the LNG Value Chain’ explores the intricate production, distribution, transport and supply systems of the liquefied natural gas industry.
“LNG is already playing a leading role in the energy transition and is the fuel of choice for many owners ordering vessels today, making a useful contribution to improving their Carbon Intensity Indicator (CII) trajectory,” said Christopher J. Wiernicki, ABS Chairman and CEO.
“The LNG value chain is the subject of significant global investment and has to respond dynamically to geopolitical drivers that change the calculus in terms of demand and supply as well as new technologies and regulation. Understanding these shapers and the shifting landscape of the industry is increasingly critical for maritime operators.”
In addition to operational insights, the comprehensive paper addresses environmental factors, regulatory frameworks and efforts to eliminate or mitigate emissions. The market realities, with a growing LNGC fleet, expanding orderbook, and contracts shaping the market, are also analysed. Finally, the societal perspective is considered, acknowledging how the LNG value chain influences livelihoods and economies worldwide.
“LNG has emerged as a transformative force in the global energy landscape, offering a cleaner and more sustainable alternative to conventional fossil fuels,” said Panos Koutsourakis, ABS Vice President, Global Sustainability. “ABS is proud to offer our industry-leading experience and research in this new report.
“By providing our insight into the ever-evolving shipping industry, exploring new technology trends and the grey, blue, green classification of LNG, we aim to shed light on the significance of LNG as a vital pillar of the global energy transition.”
The ABS publication Examining the LNG Value Chain is available for download from the ABS website.
Newport Shipping partners with HRDD
Newport Shipping is pleased to announce that is has added Chinese Huarun Dadong Dockyard Co., Ltd. (HRDD) to its network of partner shipyards.
Adding HRDD to its network of partner shipyards enables Newport Shipping to offer clients further services to and docking options. HRDD is one of the leading ship repair yards in China and will help support Newport Shipping’s activities in China.
Lianghui Xia, Managing Director, Newport Shipping comments about the latest partnership: “We welcome HRDD as our new partner yard in China. Given the strategic location and strong track record of HRDD, it is an important addition to our global yard network.
We are sticking to our strategy of selectively growing our global drydocking and retrofit service network. Apart from offering regular drydocking around the world, we are ready to offer turnkey solution to carter for the growing interest from shipowners for LNG and Methanol retrofit.”
HRDD was established in 1994 and officially opened for business in November 1995. Through its efficient management and technical expertise, HRDD has successfully delivered over 4,000 repair projects to owners globally, among which 93% are based overseas. HRDD has earned a reputation in the global market as one of the best ship repair yards in China and was listed among the top three in China’s ship repair industry.
Spanning an area of 1,020,000 sq metres and a coastal line of 2,300 metres, HRDD’s yard facilities are equipped with 8 repair jetties, 4 floating docks and one graving dock. The repair jetties cover a total length of over 2,290 metres, while the graving dock and floating dock can accommodate up to VLCC size vessels. With its facilities, HRDD has an annual capacity to service over 300 vessels and 3 offshore repairs/conversions.
Adding HRDD to the network of shipyards Newport Shipping now can offer access to 16 shipyards, 43 docks and 2,800 repair slots.
Suez Canal Economic Zone celebrates concession for Container Terminal 2 in East Port Said
The General Authority for the Suez Canal Economic Zone (SCZONE) has confirmed the concession contract for Container Terminal No. 2 in East Port Said Port to the Suez Canal Container Terminal (SCCT), in which APM Terminals is the majority shareholder. Egyptian President Abdel Fattah El- Sisi signed the concession law last month.
The contract includes financing, design, development, management, operation, maintenance, and re-delivery of the Container Terminal No. 2 following the Build-Operate-Transfer principal. The new terminal will provide the port with infrastructure for strategic projects.
“This year we celebrated the achievements of East Port Said Port – which handles nearly 80% of the total container transit trade in Egypt - by ranking 10th globally for container handling efficiency in 2022, according to a World Bank report,” stated Mr. Waleid Gamal El-Dien, Chairman of SCZONE.
“We also celebrated Mr. President’s ratification of the Container Terminal No. 2 concession agreement for the Suez Canal Container Terminal Company (SCCT), which is one of the most important success partners for SCZONE. The project will cover an area of 511,000 m2 with a berth length of 955 meters.”
The current terminal is operating with a berth length of 2,400m and a handling yard of 1.2 million sq. m and is the main operator in Port Said East Port, with annual throughput of 4 million TEUs. The expansion will increase volumes by 2 million TEUs to meet future customer demand.
The new, technologically advanced terminal will operate on clean and renewable energy, based on electric equipment. This is fully in line with APM Terminals' ambition to become fully carbon neutral by 2040.
The project will also employ the latest generation port equipment, including 12 ship-to-shore (STS) cranes, 30 rubber-tyred gantry cranes (RTGs) and 90 trucks, as well as supporting equipment and advanced IT systems. Once operational in 2025, the terminal will create over 1000 new direct jobs in Port Said, in addition to indirect jobs and business opportunities created within the whole port ecosystem.
“
Maersk vessel bunkers green methanol for first time in Rotterdam
A new Maersk vessel built by Hyundai Mipo arrived at APMT 2 terminal in Rotterdam last week to bunker green methanol on route to its naming ceremony Copenhagen.
During its maiden voyage, the vessel sailed on green methanol, which it also bunkered in Egypt. Maersk will be deploying the vessel between Northern Europe and the Baltic Sea. It will run on methanol, but it will also be able to switch to low-sulphur fuel oil.
The new 2,100 TEU vessel is a stepping-stone towards a much larger order of methanol vessels to be placed by Maersk. In 2021 and 2022, the shipping company ordered 18 container ships – also from Hyundai – of about 16,000 TEU for the Asia-Europe Route. They are set to become operational in 2024 and 2025.
The methanol was supplied by OCI Terminal Europoort, part of Dutch enterprise OCI Global. The company stated that with this first supply, a foundation was laid for the construction of an infrastructure for the new fuel type, as well as the creation of ‘a framework for green methanol sailing routes in the future’.
Last month also saw the closing of an agreement with X-Press Feeders that will form the basis for the supply of green methanol in Rotterdam. This will be used for the new dual-fuel vessels as of next year. At the start of this year, OCI closed an agreement with Unibarge for the conversion of an existing bunker vessel into a methanol vessel, in order to facilitate the supply of methanol to sea-going vessels.
NAVTOR demonstrates importance of Greek market with launch of NAVTOR Hellas
NAVTOR, a global leader in maritime e-Navigation and performance solutions, has announced the opening of its eleventh office with the arrival of NAVTOR Hellas. The Athens-based operation, situated at the Port of Piraeus, is an evolution of an existing, long-standing partnership with distributor Space Electronics. CEO Tor Svanes (pictured, left) says the move demonstrates the importance of this key shipping market to his ambitious maritime technology firm.
“Everybody is aware of Greece’s standing within the context of global shipping,” Svanes explains. “What they may be less aware of is the rapidly evolving nature of the business, as forward-thinking owners and operators embrace new innovations and technology to deliver efficiencies, performance and optimal service for customers. In some ways it’s seen as a traditional market, but that masks the exciting developments across multiple key segments.
“With that in mind, we thought it was the ideal time to show our commitment to our growing customer base with a dedicated office. The benefits our advanced e-Navigation and performance monitoring, management and optimisation solutions can deliver are greatly appreciated… and we see huge potential for growth. In some ways we regard Greece as almost a second home for us, so we’re delighted to finally have our own ‘house’ here.”
Space Electronics has represented NAVTOR in the local market for over a decade, helping the Norwegian headquartered business build a loyal customer base for its integrated product portfolio. These individual solutions work together as a seamlessly connected ‘digital ecosystem’ to unlock truly smart, sustainable shipping.
Key offerings now include: fleet management and performance platform NavFleet; digital chart table software NavStation (with its breakthrough automated Passage Planning); NavBox, a certified cyber secure gateway for seamless data transfer; NAVTOR digital logbooks, and more.
“It’s been a privilege to work on building NAVTOR’s presence in the market here,” comments Vangelis Linardatos (pictured, right), who moves from Space Electronics to the new role of Managing Director, NAVTOR Hellas. “Thanks to the powerful benefits of the solutions, and the hard work of our team, we’ve built the local marketplace into one of NAVTOR’s key customer bases. But we’re convinced there’s more that can be done.
“As shipping evolves - with new regulations, challenges and ever-increasing complexity – products like these can help owners and operators not only simplify operations and regain a sense of control, but also unlock game-changing improvements. With more innovative NAVTOR solutions on the horizon, I see this as an exciting time for the all-new NAVTOR Hellas.”
NAVTOR, which opened its doors in 2011, now has products and services on more than 9200 vessels in the world fleet. It is the global leader in ENC distribution and e-Navigation, with a growing presence in cutting-edge performance solutions.
In addition to its international network of offices, the company has 20 international distributors and customers from over 70 countries.
Intelligent Seas Group reveals partnership with Marine Learning Systems to enhance training for marine sector
Leading blended learning provider Intelligent Seas Group (ISG) is delighted to announce its collaboration with Marine Learning Systems (MLS) to help drive knowledge and skills performance, and deliver the highest standards of training for the maritime industry.
The exciting partnership marries ISG’s e-learning content library with MLS’ maritime-specific learning platform, which includes an innovative and highly configurable learning management system (LMS) and live skills assessment tool.
The new venture will enable ship managers and operators to implement the most innovative, engaging and up-to-date e-learning content on a highly advanced training delivery platform, optimised for deployment in low and zero bandwidth areas. The e-learning solutions will cover a large geographical reach with partners already in the UK, USA, Canada, Bahamas, Qatar and the Philippines
Both the content and the LMS is fully customisable to meet the unique demands of all types of vessel and operational conditions. As maritime specialists whose focus is on quality, customer service and training innovation, this partnership provides a turnkey, yet highly flexible, digital learning offering to the onshore and offshore maritime industries.
ISG’s e-learning content uses the most up-to-date software packages and techniques. Each course uses real-life maritime case studies, immersive environments, and regular knowledge checks to ensure learner engagement and knowledge retention.
Its offerings include generic e-learning, blended learning with optimised practical sessions for STCW Updaters, and bespoke e-learning content that reflects client’s facilities, operations, vessels, procedures, and branding.
MLS’ highly adaptable, enterprise platform supports the unique training and assessment workflows, which enable maritime operators to optimise competency. The LMS is accessible at home or on-board vessels in environments where internet connectivity is not always easily accessible.
Tim Love, Co-Founder from ISG said: “We are delighted to launch our partnership with MLS to service our mutual customers with a unique, specialised offering for the global maritime industry. Our joint value proposition has already been successful in winning new customers who are looking to leverage the most impactful learning technologies to drive knowledge and skills performance improvements across their businesses."
“We are thrilled about the partnership with ISG. We share a vision for helping the maritime industry to ensure competency and to leverage learning insights to continuously improve," added Peter Frankel, Vice President of Sales and Marketing at MLS.
ABS issues AIP for world’s largest LNG Carrier
At Gastech 2023, ABS issued an approval in principle (AIP) to Hudong-Zhonghua (HZ) Shipyard for its new, state-of-the-art liquified natural gas (LNG) carrier design, currently the world’s largest with 271,000 cubic metres of cargo tank capacity.
The design features flexible dual-fuel propulsion and an air lubrication system for more sustainable operations. The synergy of a more efficient hull and the use of low-carbon fuel in the fuel-efficient engine is expected to translate to the lowering of the overall carbon footprint of the vessel.
The design is also equipped with selective catalytic reduction (SCR) that should reduce its nitrogen oxide (NOx) emissions, which will help the vessel comply with IMO Tier III controls even when in diesel mode.
This newly designed LNG tank is equipped with an enhanced cargo containment system together with a real-time sloshing monitoring system, and the vessel is equipped with a hull stress monitoring and an anti-collision system, features not normally found on LNG carriers. All of these measures are designed to improve the safety and reliability of the vessel.
“As the world’s premier classification society for gas carriers, with more than 50 years of experience, we are proud to support this advanced new design from Hudong-Zhonghua. Vessels with larger capacities and modern, efficient propulsion systems will be integral to sustainably supporting future LNG needs around the world,” said John McDonald, (pictured, centre left) ABS President and COO.
Song Wei (pictured, centre right) , Head of Technical Department, Hudong-Zhonghua, said: “Hudong-Zhonghua is very honored to obtain this AIP for the Global Max type 271K LNGC, which brings a new, noticeable member of our G5 ever constant series family to worldwide customers. A Global Max type 271K LNGC will have a lower carbon intensity index (CII), about 23 percent lower than a conventional 174K LNGC, which will enable the vessel to get longer qualified service years free of operation limitations. We highly appreciate ABS' great effort in the cooperation and development of a robust solution for the LNG shipping market.”
With the AIP secured, the 344-metre vessel design now enters additional design and analysis work before being presented to potential owners.
UK charities join forces to amplify positive change for seafarers
On this week’s International Day of Charity – celebrated on September 5 annually – The Royal Alfred Seafarers’ Society is keen to shine a light on the importance of supporting charity work in the UK. By supporting each other's initiatives, charities can work together to address systemic problems more effectively and be more successful in their fundraising efforts.
For example, The Royal Alfred’s care home Belvedere House is supported by other organisations, such as Trinity House, and without this continued support, would not be able to provide the dedicated and specialised care to retired seafarers and their dependants.
In July this year, members of the Royal Alfred Seafarers’ Society completed the 24 peaks challenge in the Lake District (pictured), which saw a group walk 24 peaks in 24 hours, walking and climbing 33 miles in total with a 13,000 ft ascent. The team underwent the challenge in memory of former Estates Manager Richard Condie, who passed away in April and had previously completed the 24 Peaks Challenge three times to raise over £12,000. The Royal Alfred team were awarded the Spirit of 24 Peaks for their high spirits, dedication and positive energy.
Most recently, the Royal Alfred team held their annual summer BBQ, raising further funds for The Seafarer’s Charity.
Commander Brian Boxall-Hunt, Chief Executive of Royal Alfred Seafarers’ Society, said: “As a charity ourselves, we know how important it is to support other organisations and we are so grateful to all the organisations and individuals that have supported The Society over the years. Through collaboration, the non-profit sector can benefit from increased impact, improved efficiency, diverse funding, and stronger partnerships by generating money for other nonprofits as well as boosting visibility for important issues.
“We are proud to continue our support for The Seafarers’ Charity this year through our various fundraising efforts and so pleased our team was awarded the Spirit of the 24 Peaks challenge. It is a cause that was dear to Richard Condie, and we are honoured to carry on his legacy by rallying behind his son, Mike Condie, who has taken up the baton for 2023.
“We look forward to continuing our support in the future for deserving causes as well as showing our gratitude the organisations that help to support us.”
To find out more about the work of The Royal Alfred Seafarers’ Society visit the charity’s website (www.royalalfredseafarers.co.uk). To keep up to date with the latest news from the Society, follow and like the official Society Facebook page.
Major maritime insurers join groundbreaking initiative to improve cargo safety
Safetytech Accelerator is pleased to confirm that major UK maritime insurers, the UK P&I Club and TT Club have signed up for its Cargo Fire & Loss Innovation Initiative (CFLII).
The Initiative, launched in February 2023, is a multi-year collaborative technology acceleration programme focused on reducing cargo fires and loss in maritime and its impact. It is already supported by Anchor Partners COSCO Shipping Lines, Evergreen Line, HMM, Lloyd’s Register, Maersk, the Offen Group, ONE and Seaspan, which represent around 50% of the total liner shipping market.
The programme will help expedite the uptake of technology and best practice by identifying specific opportunities where technology can make a difference, shaping joint requirements, identifying technology solutions, undertaking trials and developing best practices and recommendations. It has already started working on solution for early fire detection in cargo hold.
The UK P&I Club, one of the world’s leading mutual insurers of third-party liabilities for ocean-going merchant ships, and TT Club, the market-leading independent provider of mutual insurance and related risk management services to the international transport and logistics industry, are the first insurers to join the Initiative, joining the significant proportion of the world’s container carriers already involved in the open-innovation initiative.
Stuart Edmonston, Loss Prevention Director at UK P&I Club, said: “We are really excited to join this initiative, to roll our sleeves up and get involved with the other Anchor Partners. Fires on board container ships keep happening, with depressing regularity, often resulting in tragic loss of life and catastrophic damage to ship and cargo.
“A large proportion of these fires are completely preventable, and we find that losses could have been mitigated by better practices. This is an industry-wide problem that requires collaboration. The only way to improve safety is to work together, share ideas, and identify and utilise modern technological solutions.”
Mike Yarwood, Managing Director of Loss Prevention at TT Club commented on his organisation’s commitment to safety, and prevention of cargo-initiated fires in particular: “As an insurer of many elements of the container supply chain, we have long campaigned for improved certainty for classification, declaration and packing of cargo in containers. We look forward to engaging with fellow partners to improve safety and certainty of outcome in the supply chain.”
Global Containerships Segment Director at Lloyd’s Register (LR), and Chair of the Maritime Cargo Fire and Loss Initiative, Nick Gross said: “I’m very excited to have UK P&I and TT Club join CFLII, now bringing in the insurer’s perspective to our work with the other anchor partners, to combat the risk of cargo fires and to make container shipping safer and more sustainable.”
Rich McLoughlin, CFLII Programme Director at Safetytech Accelerator, had this to say about the announcement: “We’re delighted to have both UK P&I Club and TT Club join this important initiative. We believe cross-industry collaboration around innovation is an essential component to reduce the incidence of large cargo fires and enhance the safety of seafarers and vessels. Together with the Anchor Partners we are already uncovering technologies and applications that have the potential to make significant progress to that goal."
The Initiative has a broad technology scope, encompassing three significant topics of concern. The first relates to onboard cargo control, including whether cargo has been properly loaded, secured and monitored during transit. The second area covers onboard fire, the ability to rapidly detect fires and prevent propagation through effective onboard response, particularly on cargo vessels such as container ships and car-carriers. The third topic of concern relates to the challenges created by the increasing scale of vessels.
Safetytech Accelerator is a non-profit established by Lloyd’s Register. It is the first fully dedicated technology accelerator focused on safety and risk in industrial sectors, with a mission to make the world safer and more sustainable through wider adoption of technology.
DAC Beachcroft forms association with Incisive Law in Singapore
International law firm DAC Beachcroft is pleased to announce it has formed an association with Incisive Law, an independent Singapore Law Practice, to work together in Singapore. In support of their association, both firms have also made recent investments in talent to strengthen their respective shipping practices.
The new association will see DACB and Incisive Law collaborate to provide a seamless offering to their clients, covering Singapore and English law. With their combined expertise and international reach, the two firms will be well positioned to meet the ever-expanding needs of their clients in the Asia-Pacific region.
Established in 2011, DACB's Singapore office specialises in providing advice on complex, high-value and international risks across all lines of insurance business and all aspects of reinsurance. In 2022 the firm welcomed partners Summer Montague (pictured) – who now leads the Singapore office – and Andrew Robinson, increasing its partner headcount and capabilities across the wider Asia-Pacific region.
With an already strong reputation in shipping, international trade & commodities and marine insurance, Incisive Law, led by Joint Managing Directors Bill Ricquier and Wai Yue Loh, also offers the full spectrum of legal services to local Singapore and multinational businesses across other sectors, including energy and infrastructure, financial services, asset finance, technology, private client matters and employment. Wai Yue, who was previously a partner in an international law firm and based in Greater China, also has extensive experience advising Chinese clients, many of whose business interests are increasingly focused on Singapore and the region.
In addition to agreeing this new association with Incisive Law, DACB continues to build a global shipping team. The firm welcomed legal director Joanne Waters from HFW to its London team during the summer. Joanne specialises in commercial dispute resolution in the shipping and logistics industries, with a particular interest in maritime technology, and has previously worked in both Singapore and Hong Kong. DACB will also welcome shipping and energy litigation specialist Nicola Tune as a legal director from Ince & Co. later this month. Joanne and Nicola will work alongside partners Anthony Menzies and Toby Vallance in London.
In Singapore, Incisive Law has been bolstered by the recent arrival of veteran shipping lawyer John Seow as a Director & Head of Litigation, who joined from Rajah & Tann where he had been a partner in the Shipping & International Trade Department.
Summer Montague said: "We have taken the opportunity to ask clients in the region what they want and need and we are growing our offering around those needs, creating a diverse and dynamic team that is providing sector-focused solutions across the full suite of the Insurance and Shipping, Trade & Commodities sectors. We have made no secret of our ambitions in Asia-Pacific and we continue to pursue opportunities to expand our reach in the region for the benefit of our clients. With its excellent lawyers, sterling reputation, and market-leading shipping and marine practice, Incisive Law perfectly complements our existing offering and gives us an even stronger platform in Singapore. We look forward to working more closely together and building stronger ties."
Wai Yue Loh said: "There are a number of natural synergies between DACB and Incisive Law and perhaps most importantly, we share the same ethos in terms of how we should service our clients. These will go a long way to help us achieve our ambitions for growth in the Asia-Pacific region and beyond. With the breadth and depth of services we can provide together, this association will enable us to bring further shipping, international trade & commodities, and energy expertise to clients across the globe."
Bill Ricquier added: "We are very much looking forward to collaborating and developing deeper links with DACB. We are both committed to international levels of service and expertise and to building personal relationships with clients. Combined with the deep, local knowledge we offer, our clients will no doubt benefit from the enhanced proposition this association brings."
The expansion of DACB's capabilities in Singapore is part of its ongoing drive to be the international law firm of choice for global insurers as well as their insureds in the Shipping, International Trade & Commodities sectors. In addition to its focus on the Asia-Pacific region, so far this year the firm has launched offices in Argentina and Italy.
DAC Beachcroft has one of the largest insurance practices of any law firm in the UK, operating from eleven UK locations, as well as internationally from offices in Europe, North America, Latin America and Asia-Pacific. It is also a founding member of Legalign Global, the alliance of best-in-region law firms working as one for multinational insurers, brokers and businesses in addressing cross-border risks and claims.
Supply chains must work together towards decarbonisation: DP World
The entire supply chain must work together to accelerate the journey towards a more sustainable international logistics network, according to DP World in the UK.
Revealing the company’s “greenest year ever” at its Southampton logistics hub, DP World in the UK’s Commercial Supply Chain Director John Trenchard said:v “We simply do not have a choice and we must make strong strides quickly and together.”
Speaking in a video presentation for the London Talks series, in advance of London International Shipping Week 2023, Mr Trenchard outlined the measures DP World in the UK is taking towards a greener future. These include:
• The Modal Shift programme at its Southampton logistics hub which financially incentivises DP World in the UK’s customers to move cargo by rail over road. The scheme has the potential to prevent an estimated 30,000 tonnes of carbon dioxide emissions from downstream transport activities, with DP World in the UK aiming for a 40% transfer from road to rail by 2025.
• The Port-to-Port rail service linking DP World in the UK’s London Gateway and Southampton logistic hubs launched last year, which has already reduced emissions by up to 80%.
• The adoption of Hydrotreated Vegetable Oil (HVO) at DP World in the UK’s Southampton logistics hub, which has reduced carbon emissions by 90% compared to 2021, saving 14,000 tonnes of carbon – the equivalent of taking more than 8,000 family cars off the roads.
• The implementation of solar panels at DP World in the UK’s London Gateway and Southampton logistic hubs which have generated over 30 megawatt hours in the first two months of usage.
• The construction of DP World in the UK’s first all-electric fourth berth at London Gateway, at a cost of some £350m, which is due for completion in 2024.
DP World in the UK aims to be carbon neutral by 2040 and has a clear roadmap to achieve net zero by 2050. In his video presentation, Mr Trenchard commented: “While these initiatives are costly, they are a core part of mitigating risk in the future.”
To view DP World in the UK’s LISW23 London Talks video please click here.
London International Shipping Week will be held in the week of September 11-15, 2023 and will host the international maritime community, with hundreds of events attracting thousands of international industry decision makers into London during the week. The LISW23 Headline Conference will be held on Wednesday September 13th, and the LISW23 Gala Dinner will be held on Thursday September 14th.
For further information and bookings please visit the website: www.londoninternationalshippingweek.com
Shipping industry experts to discuss global supply chains, sanctions, fuel supply and insurance as part of LISW
As part of London International Shipping Week, law firm Reed Smith will host a panel of shipping industry experts to discuss the global supply chain, ranging from the impact of sanctions to the supply of fuel, decarbonisation, and availability of insurance.
Attendees have been invited to hear the views of the panel made up of:
• Aimee Nolan, Cargo Line Underwriter at Hiscox
• Mark Jackson, Chief Executive Officer at The Baltic Exchange
• Faye Thompson, Legal Counsel at Peninsula
• Alexander Brandt, partner at Reed Smith
The discussion, chaired by Reed Smith shipping partner Nick Austin, will touch on some of the most pressing challenges currently impacting supply chains, such as geopolitical instability.
Austin said: “Tomorrow’s supply chains are critical. Given their increased complexity over the years, transforming and managing them will help organisations both big and small achieve their business needs. A strong supply chain, in which shipping plays a crucial role, ensures transparency and traceability, enabling companies to verify the environmental and social impacts of their cargo throughout the production and shipping processes.”
Brandt, who leads Reed Smith’s sanctions practice, will discuss the rapid unfolding of sanctions programmes, the approaches by the EU and UK, and the different compliance practices and policies within the industry.
The event will take place at Reed Smith’s London office in Broadgate Tower on Tuesday 12 September from 11am. Attendees can register for the event at the Reed Smith website.
The Alan Turing Institute to sponsor London International Shipping Week for the first time
Shipping Innovation, owner and organiser of London International Shipping Week, is delighted to welcome The Alan Turing Institute as a first time sponsor of London International Shipping Week (LISW).
The Institute is named in honour of Alan Turing whose pioneering work in theoretical and applied mathematics, engineering and computing is considered to have laid the foundations for modern-day data science and artificial intelligence. The Institute’s purpose is to make great leaps in data science and AI research to change the world for the better. Its goals are to advance world-class research and apply it to national and global challenges, build skills for the future by contributing to training people across sectors and career stages, and drive an informed public conversation by providing balanced and evidence-based views on data science and AI.
The Institute will be holding an ‘AI for Business Breakfast Briefing’ on 13 September from 9.30 am to 11 am to delve into the rapidly growing area of AI and how this is key for businesses in the Maritime Sector. The session will be led by Adam Sobey (pictured), Programme Director for Data-Centric Engineering and Professor of the Maritime Engineering Group of Southampton, and will discuss the core approaches to AI and Machine Learning, giving some examples of successful applications in the maritime industry. The session will be of particular interest to those making key financial decisions and will cover a wide range of methods from digital twins to large language models.
Professor Sobey said: “We are delighted to be sponsoring London International Shipping Week for the first time. Artificial Intelligence has the potential to address some key challenges facing the shipping industry, from helping reduce fuel consumption and emissions, to increasing the safety of ships. We hope that our involvement in this event will help show the positive impact that AI could have on the sector.”
Sean Moloney, co-owner of LISW23, is equally pleased with the Institute’s decision to become a sponsor: “LISW has established itself as a must-attend event in the global maritime calendar. It is significant that The Alan Turing Institute has recognised the importance of both the week and the maritime sector in general by sponsoring this year’s event.”
LISW23 will be held in the week of September 11-15, 2023 and will be host to the maritime world with hundreds of events attracting thousands of international industry decision makers into London during the week. The headline LISW23 Conference will be held on Wednesday September 13 while the LISW23 Gala Dinner will be held on Thursday September 14.
For further information and bookings please visit the website: www.londoninternationalshippingweek.com
WinGD and Samsung Heavy Industries to cooperate on future fuel applications
Swiss marine power company WinGD and shipbuilder Samsung Heavy Industries (SHI) have agreed to cooperate on future fuel vessel applications with ammonia-fuelled engines. The memorandum of understanding, signed during the Gastech conference in Singapore this week, indicates a strong intention on the part of SHI to install WinGD’s X-DF-A dual-fuel ammonia engines on forthcoming newbuild vessels.
The cooperation will include preparing X-DF-A for integration with wider ammonia fuel systems and auxiliary machinery across a range of vessel designs, including oil tankers, container ships and ammonia carriers. The project is in line with WinGD’s previously announced timeframe of bringing X-DF-A ammonia engines into service from Q1 2025.
Haeki Jang (pictured, centre right), CTO, Samsung Heavy Industries, said: “Working with WinGD to prepare its ammonia engines for integration with newbuild projects in key vessel segments will ensure that SHI can offer customers the future fuel vessel solutions they need to meet their decarbonisation targets.”
Volkmar Galke (pictured, centre left), Director Sales, WinGD, added: “This collaboration offers WinGD the opportunity to participate in the future fuel preparations of one of the world’s biggest and most respected builders of high-quality vessels. The aim is to prepare engine and vessel designs as well as fuel system integration specifications that will lead to X-DF-A engines being deployed on a wide range of SHI-built, ammonia-fuelled vessels.”
WinGD is due to begin validation of its ammonia-fuelled engine concept on single and multi-cylinder test engines, in Winterthur and Shanghai, later this year. The validation tests follow combustion concept testing that began in 2021, in concert with simulation and rig tests to understand the emissions characteristics and injection requirements of ammonia fuel.
The X-DF-A, like its methanol-fuelled counterpart X-DF-M, will operate on a high-pressure Diesel-cycle combustion process, with liquid ammonia fuel injection supported with a low portion of pilot fuel.
Electronic environmental record books by Opsealog receive Type Approval Certification from Bureau Veritas
French digitalization expert Opsealog has been awarded type approval from Bureau Veritas (BV), a world leader in testing, inspection and certification, for its cloud-based Streamlog Garbage Record Book and Oil Record Book, marking an important step towards the deployment of digital reporting solutions that will save time and enhance data analysis in the shipping industry.
Type approval from BV confirms that both record books meet the IMO guidelines. This will accelerate their implementation onboard vessels by streamlining the Flag State approvals required for any electronic record book solution. By replacing paper logs, Opsealog’s digital record books enable crews to report waste management and oil management information easily and share data securely via the cloud. The solutions are deployed remotely and can work offline when connectivity is poor.
By gathering all the vessel’s information is in one place, the new electronic record books will support compliance with new regulation and facilitate Port State controls and inspections. They will also link to Opsealog’s data integration and analysis platform, MarInsights, where the information can be harnessed to help inform the vessel operator on the best strategies that can be deployed on their fleets to lower their environmental footprint, and limit marine pollution.
Arnaud Dianoux, Managing Director of Opsealog said: “We are delighted to receive type approval from Bureau Veritas for our first two electronic record books. To this day, three-quarters of vessels are still using paper logbooks for regulatory reporting. This means that a huge amount of information, and the potential to use it to improve operations, is currently stuck on paper. Our Streamlog Garbage and Oil Record Books aim to change that. They will ease the reporting workload for crews, while also helping shipping companies make the most of their data.
“Seafarers will know that when they fill reports digitally rather than on paper, the data will be used to deliver greater efficiency, safety and sustainability. In the long term, we believe that greater digitalization will be a key pillar of shipping’s decarbonization ambitions, helping the industry measure their starting point, assess the impact of different solutions, and benchmark progress.”
Christophe Chauvière, Vice-President for South Europe, North Africa and North America at Bureau Veritas Marine & Offshore, said: “The route to efficiency and sustainability for the maritime industry runs through digitalization. Switching from paper to electronic logbooks is a key component of that transition, enabling smarter data collection and recording, and creating more efficient workflows onboard. At Bureau Veritas, we are proud to support industry pioneers like Opsealog who create solutions that will help the industry save time and gain access to the insights needed for a more sustainable future.”
Opsealog’s Garbage Record Book and Oil Record Book are the first two of the new Streamlog series of electronic record books to receive classification approval. This responds to a growing need for digital reporting solutions in shipping, following the adoption in 2019 of the IMO MEPC Resolution 312(74), which has enabled the use of electronic record books in lieu of hard copy record books. Streamlog also addresses the industry’s demand for lighter, cloud-based solutions that do not require the major deployment and maintenance costs of hardware record books. This will help democratize access to electronic record books.
ABS, GTT and DHT sign JDP to develop optimised LNG-fuelled VLCC design
ABS, Gaztransport & Technigaz (GTT) and DHT Holdings, Inc. signed a joint development project (JDP) at Gastech 2023 to optimize a new, very large crude carrier (VLCC) with liquified natural gas (LNG) propulsion that meets Class and statutory requirements.
The dual fuel vessel promises to provide flexibility for operations and to reduce greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions.
The agreement will see ABS, GTT and DHT focus on optimizing the VLCC design, exploring the total cost of operation by analysing the operating profile and fuel availability at frequently visited ports. The companies will also collaborate on subjects such as LNG fuel volume, tank size optimization and impact on regulatory measures such as carbon intensity indicator (CII).
“LNG has significant potential to improve the emissions performance of vessels, including VLCCs. Flexibility afforded by dual fuel operations combined with the potential for improved CII rating may well contribute to a longer lifespan and increase appeal to charterers. ABS is proud to be able to use our experience to contribute to this important JDP,” said John McDonald (pictured, centre), ABS President and COO.
Philippe Berterottière (pictured, left), Chairman and CEO of GTT, said: “GTT is delighted to join forces with ABS and DHT Holdings, experts in their respective domains. This JDP aims to develop the future of crude oil transportation with the most advanced environmentally efficient VLCC design. The cutting-edge membrane technology pioneered by GTT provides the sought-after flexibility for ship-owners as well as the optimal solution to facilitate a seamless transition into a carbon-neutral future."
“We are pleased to collaborate with ABS and GTT in this Joint Development Project, aimed at enhancing the LNG dual fuel VLCC design,” said Svenn Magne Edvardsen (pictured, right), DHT Ship Management (Singapore), Managing Director. This strategic partnership is expected to optimize this design of a LNG DF VLCC with membrane-type tanks, by leveraging the expertise of the stakeholders of the JDP.”
MISC and NYK Line join maritime methane abatement drive
The Methane Abatement in Maritime Innovation Initiative (MAMII) has more than doubled membership in its first 12 months, it was announced at Gastech 2023 in Singapore this week.
MAMII also confirmed three new members of its collective of shipping leaders aiming to address the environmental implications of liquefied natural gas (LNG) in the industry. MiQ, a methane measurement certification company, Japanese shipping company NYK Line, and the leading international shipping line of Malaysia, MISC, all joined.
Under the guidance of Safetytech Accelerator, MAMII was established on September 6th, 2022, and has experienced substantial growth in its inaugural year, from seven initial members to 16 before the latest three additions. Other members are Carnival Corporation & Plc, Capital Gas, Celsius Tankers, CoolCo, Global Meridian Holdings, Knutsen Group, Lloyd’s Register, Maran Gas Maritime, MISC, MOL, MSC, NYK Line, Seaspan Corporation, Shell, TMS Cardiff Gas and United Overseas Management
In its first year the initiative has produced a methane strategy landscape report for all partners, covering methane regulatory requirements, Well to Tank and Tank to Wake analysis, and cost benefit analysis. It also examined more than 150 technology companies to create an ecosystem of 27 leading Methane Tech companies, of which 13 are actively engaged with MAMII partners.
However, speaking at Gastech, leaders of the initiative emphasised that the technology ecosystem for methane measurement and abatement still required significant time and investment.
LNG is widely understood to generate less carbon dioxide (CO2), and emit less nitrogen oxides, sulphur dioxide, and particulate matter, for the same propulsion power as traditional fuels. But the environmental benefits of using LNG are lessened by unburned methane passing through the combustion process and into the atmosphere, where it has a significant warming effect.
Steve Price, MAMII Programme Director, said: "The accomplishments of MAMII's first year are testament to the maritime industry's dedication to reducing its methane footprint. “
“There is technology available today that can monitor and mitigate methane leaks onboard an LNG fuelled ship. Now, a standard for methane emission measurement is critical to begin tackling concerns around practicality, safety, and cost, for shipowners and operators.”
“With the right technology and the right monitoring of well to tank, the benefits of LNG over fuel oil can continue to be reaped, while the industry develops the infrastructure required for alternative fuels such as Ammonia and Hydrogen.”
MAMII will release a comprehensive progress report in January 2024. This report will shed light on the methane emission challenge and offer actionable steps for the industry to take.
KR, K Shipbuilding, Sunbo Industries and Dongsung Finetec to jointly develop LCO2 carrier design
At this week’s Gastech 2023 event in Singapore, KR (Korean Register) signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with K Shipbuilding, Sunbo Industries and Dongsung Finetec to jointly develop a 12K CBM liquefied CO2 (LCO2) carrier design.
As Carbon Capture, Utilization and Storage (CCUS) technologies become increasingly important in response to the global trend in decarbonization policies, the demand for LCO2 carriers to transport captured carbon dioxide by sea is expected to grow significantly, with many orders expected.
K Shipbuilding will lead the development and design optimization of a medium-pressure LCO2 carrier with a design pressure of 19 bar. Sunbo Industries will pioneer the development of a cargo handling system and a fuel supply system. In addition, Dongsung Finetec will undertake the development of LCO2 cargo tanks and LNG fuel tanks, and KR will verify the safety and suitability of the ship in accordance with the classification rules and international conventions, ultimately granting Approval in Principle (AIP) of the design.
During the signing ceremony, the companies discussed strategies to ensure the project's success and concurred on the significance of securing technologies that will spearhead decarbonization in light of impending global warming. This collaborative effort is anticipated to propel the progress of the 12K CBM LCO2 carrier development project with enhanced efficiency.
LEE Hyungchul, Chairman & CEO of KR commented: "Through the collaboration of K Shipbuilding, Sunbo Industries and Dongsung Finetec, we look forward to the successful completion of the project, and to leading innovation and promoting growth in the maritime industry.”
Boost to seafarers’ health as Boers Crew Services introduces new blood tests for crews before and during voyages
Leading crew specialists BCS Group – Boers Crew Services is introducing a brand new way of allowing seafarers to monitor their health while away at sea with the use of blood tests.
Dutch company Boers Crew Services will introduce the new Preventative Medical Examination initiative this month and will be offering the service to its clients initially in The Netherlands, before expanding to Belgium and Germany.
The company is bringing in the medical testing, which is due to launch on Monday, September 11, in a bid to boost the health of seafarers if they are out at sea with no access to medical professionals and may have fears over a new or ongoing health issue.
Boers says that 5% of people who carry out the preventative testing find out they have a serious life-threatening disease without knowing, so these tests can significantly improve their chances of catching a health issue early.
Crews can choose from one of four options to carry out the test. They can do the blood test themselves while out at sea; a medic can go onto the vessel and carry it out for them; they can alternatively do the test at a hotel while onshore, or a medic can carry out the test for them on land.
Peter Smit (pictured), Group CEO of BCS Group – Boers Crew services, said: “We are delighted to be able to offer this new service that will inevitably improve the physical health of seafarers while they are out at sea for long periods of time.
"There is a lot of focus on mental health and rightly so. But we cannot forget about the physical health too. A lot of crew members may feel anxious or worried about going away for long periods of time if they have an ongoing health issue that they are unable to keep an eye on.
“If they are diagnosed with a vitamin deficiency or high cholesterol for example, by giving them the opportunity to carry out regular blood tests while away, they can have peace of mind and keep an eye on their condition and access medical help sooner rather than later. “
Crew members using the blood tests can download an app where they will be able to see their results three days after sending the test off. The results will only be shared with their employer if the seafarer gives permission to do so. The testing programme has also been ISO 27001-approved.
Although shipping companies will be unaware of specific health conditions of individual crew members, the app can give provide an overall picture of how healthy their crew is.
Mr Smit added: “It is a win-win for both crews and shipping companies too as this will also save companies money in the long run as conditions will be picked up quicker, resulting in less sick leave for the seafarer. We are proud to be able to offer this service and we believe the option of carrying out your own blood tests while on the ship is not widely available, so we are delighted to be able to introduce this initiative.
Click here to see a video on the new testing initiative.
ShipMoney Sponsors Specially Chartered Uber Boats for LISW Gala Dinner Guests
Leading digital maritime payments solutions provider ShipMoney is sponsoring specially chartered Uber Boats provided by Thames Clippers to whisk LISW Gala dinner guests along the River Thames at the end of an unforgettable London International Shipping Week (LISW23) Champagne Reception and Gala Dinner.
This dazzling evening will be a fitting conclusion to a remarkable week of debate, discussion and networking by the global maritime industry which will also mark a decade of London International Shipping Week events.
Located in the heart of Battersea Park, Evolution London is the unique venue where maritime leaders and VIPs will celebrate in style on the evening of Thursday 14th September.
Speaking about why he decided to sponsor the Uber Boats, ShipMoney President Stuart Ostrow said:
“I loved the idea of sponsoring something special like this and even though I will not be able to make the Gala dinner itself as I will be climbing Mt. Kilimanjaro to help raise money for the Sailors’ Society, I thought it important that ShipMoney showed its support for the maritime industry. There are some huge challenges facing shipping in the coming years but the more we discuss and collaborate, the better we can overcome these issues. ShipMoney is all about supporting seafarers and our key aim is to help make sure that they get paid on time, every time.”
If you wish to donate to help the Sailors’ Society and Stuart in his quest to climb Mt Kilimanjaro please click on the link below:
LR awards Approval in Principle to HMD for ammonia dual-fuelled 45,000cbm LPG Carrier
Lloyd’s Register (LR) has granted Approval in Principle (AiP) to Hyundai Mipo Dockyard (HMD) for its new 45,000cbm LPG (Liquefied Petroleum Gas) Carrier design, with availability to be ordered with ammonia dual-fuelled propulsion.
The dual fuel system equipped on HMD’s LPG Carrier allows operators and owners to prioritise their ESG (Environmental, Societal and Governance) strategies for their fleets and align with the IMO’s revised goal of net zero CO2 emissions by 2050.
The design incorporates three prismatic type ‘A’ tanks, reliquefaction plant, ammonia dual-fuelled engine with fitting, Liquid Fuel Supply System, Fire Fighting equipment and Water Spray System. The vessel is focused on verifying safety issue for ammonia toxic.
As part of the project, HMD, Marshall Islands Flag and LR completed a feasibility study for the application of the ammonia (NH3) fuelled system through a comprehensive certification process, to ensure that the NH3 fuelled system complies with the existing IGC code. LR issued AiP following a drawing appraisal per applicable LR Class Rules & Guidance and related international regulations and standards.
Andy McKeran, Chief Commercial Officer, Lloyd’s Register said:
“We are delighted to continue our strong relationship with HMD with the granting of this approval in principle. The gas sector retains an important role in the maritime energy transition and ensuring supply demands can be met with new vessels is key. It is also crucial that we look beyond the short term and ensure that the global fleet is equipped with the capability to transition to green future fuel usage, with vessels like HMD’s dual-fuelled LPGC offering ship owners a credible option for decarbonisation.”
Chail-il Kim, Senior Vice President, Hyundai Mipo Dockyard said: “We, HMD forecast that Ammonia dual-fuelled vessel will be widely adopted by the marine market as a substitute for conventional fuels in accordance with recently strengthened IMO GHG reduction and our design will timely respond to market demand for Ammonia duel-fuelled vessel in the upcoming future. As a first mover in the initial ammonia dual-fuelled vessel, we HMD will continuously endeavour to improve our design with LR.”
Tom Blenk, Deputy Commissioner of Maritime Affairs, the Republic of the Marshall Islands (RMI) Maritime Administrator said: “The RMI Maritime Administrator has no objection to the proposed design concept of the ammonia 45,000 cbm LPG carrier and is pleased to be involved in this project. The advancement of new technologies in the maritime energy sector is a necessary step toward ensuring that transition to a greener future. It was a pleasure to work with LR during the feasibility study and we look forward to continuing this relationship with future projects.”
Merchant Navy Medal awarded to Operations Director at Stream Marine Group
Leading maritime training provider Stream Marine Group’s Operations Director Katy Womersley has been praised for her dedication to diversity as she was announced as one of the winners of this year’s Merchant Navy Medal.
Ms Womersley (pictured) who has been Group Operations Director at Stream Marine Group since 2022, says she is delighted but overwhelmed to be named as a recipient of the award – the highest medal of honour awarded in the maritime industry.
She received the accolade from the Department for Transport for her contributions to seafarers’ training and sector diversity. Having previously worked as a Deck Officer, she moved her career onshore and joinied the Stream Marine team in Glasgow.
The award was handed out to 11 seafarers who have been recognised for significant contributions to the maritime industry. Other winners included pilot Captain Rattray who has campaigned for improved safety in the marine pilotage sector after his leg was crushed when he was boarding a ship via a pilot ladder.
Ms Womersley has championed diversity within the maritime sector by inspiring disadvantaged young people to pursue careers within the sector, and dedicated her career to drive forward seafarer training and improve sector diversity.
She said: “I am delighted and honoured to be receive this prestigious award. To be just one of 11 seafarers to receive this is overwhelming to say the least and I am very grateful. The maritime industry offers fantastic careers, both at sea and offshore. I have been inspired by so many great people in this industry, throughout my career at sea and ashore, who are committed to creating a diverse and inclusive environment.’’
‘’I look forward to the industry moving forward in this way and for there to be endless opportunities for future seafarers for years to come.”
Stream Marine Group CEO, Martin White said: “I am enormously proud of Katy for everything she has done here at Stream Marine Training and for her dedication to improving industry standards. This accolade is very well deserved and I am delighted Katy is being recognised for her passion, influence and dedication to the industry,”
Ms Womersley has also supported charities, including the Sir Thomas Lipton Foundation, helping to organise events aimed at offering children opportunities to gain maritime experience. She also advocates for women within maritime and organised the first Women in Maritime forums in Scotland alongside Maritime UK.
Fire not the only danger with lithium-ion batteries: TT Club
TT Club, the specialist international freight insurance provider is seeking greater emphasis on the critical dangers of toxic gas emissions associated with lithium-ion battery fires. The failure of such batteries has the potential to occur with no prior warning, or with such speed that there is typically no time to react to any warning signs.
Devastating consequences of rapidly spreading, and often challenging to extinguish fires involving the batteries particularly in electric vehicles (EV) on board ships, and other parts of the supply chain have been well-documented in recent months. There is however less awareness of the highly toxic combustion products that are released and their respective impact to the health and wellbeing of those exposed to the gases.
Based on the evidence of past fires the time between the initiation of a failed battery igniting to a discharge of toxic vapour can be measured in seconds rather than minutes. This is due to a process known as thermal runaway. The rapid sequence of events typically occurs where an internal electrical short within one of the battery cells generates heat; this breaks down the internal structure of the battery, increasing the rate of the reaction in an ever-increasing cycle. There is often a dramatic release of energy in the form of heat and a significant emission of toxic gases.
Neil Dalus of TT endeavours to paint a picture of the dangers. “During a lithium battery thermal runaway event, research has shown that significant amounts of vapour can be produced per kWh (kilowatt hour). In many common supply chain scenarios, including ships’ holds and warehouses, the reality is that such vapour clouds are likely to accumulate. Even when the clouds are able to disperse, the potential toxic effects may occur at lower concentrations.”
Drivers, stevedores, ships’ crews and first responders attempting to control the blazes encounter what might appear to be smoke but is in fact a mix of toxic gases, generated quickly and in large volumes. These gases once in the atmosphere behave differently to smoke, often pooling at floor level due to their density. “Traditionally where fires and smoke are concerned one would stay low to avoid inhalation, doing so where lithium battery fires are concerned is likely to prove problematic,” observes Dalus.
The toxicity of gases given off from any given lithium-ion battery differ from that of a typical fire and can themselves vary but all remain either poisonous or combustible, or both. They can feature high percentages of hydrogen, and compounds of hydrogen, including hydrogen fluoride, hydrogen chloride and hydrogen cyanide, as well as carbon monoxide, sulphur dioxide and methane among other dangerous chemicals.
In terms of hazards to the wellbeing of those in the vicinity of such an incident, one particularly problematic component is hydrogen fluoride (HF). Although HF is lighter than air and would disperse when released, a cloud of vapor and aerosol that is heavier than air may be formed (EPA 1993). On exposure to skin or by inhaling, HF can result in skin burns and lung damage that can take time (hours to weeks) to develop following exposure. HF will be quickly absorbed by the body via skin and lungs depleting vital calcium and magnesium levels in tissues, which can result in severe and possibly fatal systemic effects. The hydrogen content of the released gases can give rise to vapour cloud explosion risks which have the potential to cause significant damage.
TT advocates a range of measures to mitigate the risks. A prudent starting point would be to perform a fire risk assessment, considering the specific hazards presented by lithium-ion batteries. Risk mitigation considerations thereafter could include providing operatives with certified full-face self-contained breathing apparatus, chemical-resistant boots among other protective equipment, as well as drench showers for post-response decontamination. Strategic positioning of fire-fighting equipment should also be a key consideration.
Early detection of such an incident can also be pivotal in managing the response, camera and thermal imaging could enable an expedient response. Such equipment might have already become commonplace for some modes, however conducting a thorough risk assessment for example when cargo is stored in warehouses would be prudent. As Dalus comments however, “Given the hazardous nature of this vapour, if any of these measures are not in place then the best course of action is to evacuate the area and leave the incident response to the emergency services, ensuring that the known risks are appropriately communicated.”
Consideration should also be given to the location of any incident that might include clean up and entry. The gases produced potentially leave toxic deposits on all surfaces and in the atmosphere. Therefore, once the incident is under control, potential hazards remain.
A full report on the dangers of emissions from lithium-ion fires, as well as detailed safety advice is available from TT’s website.
TT Club will be hosting a webinar on the subject of ‘Lithium-ion batteries in the logistics supply chain’ on 11 October. To register to attend please click Registration (gotowebinar.com)
ClassNK and FUKUI to study installation of safety relief valve for cargo tank of liquefied hydrogen carrier
Fukui Seisakusho Co., Ltd. (FUKUI) and ClassNK signed a Memorandum of Understanding concerning a joint study on a safety relief valve for a cargo tank of liquefied hydrogen carriers at the Gastech2023 event held in Singapore.
In order to ensure safety in the transport of liquefied hydrogen, the development of safety relief valves that can handle hydrogen's characteristics including extremely low temperatures, ease of leakage, and hydrogen embrittlement, which leads to a decrease in material strength and toughness, is necessary. Appropriate safety standards are also required. As part of the efforts to establish key technologies for hydrogen transport, FUKUI and ClassNK have agreed to jointly conduct a study for the installation of safety relief valves for cargo tanks of liquefied hydrogen carriers on actual ships.
Yo Fukui (pictured, right), President and CEO, FUKUI said: "FUKUI aims to be a leading company in ensuring the safety of customers' equipment for realization of a decarbonised society worldwide. For the hydrogen supply chain, it is crucial to have the commitment and the ability to execute to overcome various challenges such as extremely low temperatures and hydrogen embrittlement. I'm convinced that the MOU signed today with ClassNK will be a significant step towards achieving a sustainable society."
Hayato Suga (pictured, left), Executive Vice President, ClassNK said: "ClassNK is pleased to launch a new partnership with FUKUI, dedicated to decarbonising society. Through our extensive experience with liquefied hydrogen carriers, we will apply our expertise to advance the development and standard relevant to the technology, thereby supporting the global adoption of liquified hydrogen carriers."
Separately, ClassNK issued an Approval in Principle at Gastech for an onboard CO2 capture and storage (OCCS) system developed by China Shipbuilding Power Engineering Institute Co., Ltd. (CSPI), a member of CSSC Power (Group) Co. Ltd. (CPGC).
FIT Alliance launches eBL declaration to secure commitment to digitalisation
BIMCO, DCSA, FIATA, ICC, and Swift (The FIT Alliance) have launched the ‘Declaration of the electronic Bill of Lading’ as the adoption of eBLs can help make international trade more efficient, reliable, sustainable, and secure. The aim of the declaration is to secure commitment from all stakeholders in international trade to collaborate on driving digitalisation, starting with eBLs, within their industries.
Every year, ocean carriers issue around 45 million bills of lading, one of the most important trade documents in shipping. Currently, many international shipping documents are not standardised, and the majority are still paper based, requiring physical hand-off between participants. The adoption of eBLs will enable the trade industry to benefit from faster transactions, cost savings (e.g. reduced administrative cost of cargo holding and document processing), and lowered fraud risks (through the use of digital authentication systems).
In 2022, only 2.1% of bills of lading and waybills in the container trade were electronic. This is despite the fact that end-to-end digitalisation of trade documentation, starting with eBL, will cut costs, make international trade more efficient, reliable, secure, sustainable and less susceptible to illegal activity or fraud. In the dry bulk sector there are some encouraging signs of growth. Four of the world’s largest mining companies are already carrying around 20% of their iron ore shipments on eBLs
A McKinsey study estimates that if eBL achieved 100% adoption in the container sector alone, it could unlock $30-40 bn in global trade growth by reducing trade friction in the container trade alone. It could also help save 28,000 trees per year, equivalent to around 39 football fields of forest, and significantly reduce carbon emissions by eliminating paper.
“A universal eBL will benefit all stakeholders involved in the global supply chain whether in bulk shipping or container shipping,” the FIT Alliance says in a common statement. “Achieving widespread adoption of a standards-based eBL will benefit not only the shipping industry, but also the global movement of goods, at a time when supply chain resilience is challenged.
“This declaration is a significant symbol of our joint dedication to shape the future of shipping. Transforming document exchange through a globally applicable eBL will accelerate trade digitalisation to the benefit customers, banks, customs, government authorities, providers of ocean shipping services and all other stakeholders.”
As many of the technical and legal obstacles to universal eBL are already being addressed, a clear commitment to digitalisation from everyone involved in international trade is a crucial next step. By signing the FIT Alliance eBL Declaration, all stakeholders can publicly signal their readiness for change and their commitment to collaborate to drive digitalisation within their industries.
The FIT Alliance was formed in 2022 by BIMCO, the Digital Container Shipping Association (DCSA), the International Federation of Freight Forwarders Associations (FIATA), the International Chamber of Commerce (ICC), and the Society for Worldwide Interbank Financial Telecommunications (Swift). In forming the alliance, the groups have united behind the mission to standardise the digitalisation of international trade.
Niels Nuyens, Head of Digital Trade at DCSA summarised the news by saying: “We are happy that our partners have signed up to this new agreement that will help accelerate trade digitalisation through a globally applicable eBL to the benefit of an incredibly diverse set of stakeholders from customers to government regulators, through to shipping services from every industry. To achieve widespread use of eBL, we must all be on board with adopting digital B/L standards. This agreement from our diverse industry associations is an exciting milestone in our journey towards standardising all container shipping documentation through our shared initiative.”
KR grants approval to SHI’s 200K CBM Class Ultra-Large Ammonia Carrier with Ammonia Fuel
KR (Korean Register) granted an Approval in Principle (AiP) for a 200K CBM Class Ultra-Large Ammonia Carrier with Ammonia Fuel. The innovative vessel design, created by Samsung Heavy Industries (SHI), was unveiled at Gastech 2023 in Singapore this week.
A joint development project (JDP) between KR and SHI resulted in the development of this ultra-large ammonia carrier featuring an ammonia fuel system. The carrier is a green ship designed to carry large quantities of ammonia, using the cargo as fuel, and has zero carbon dioxide emissions during operation.
Ammonia, known for its distinctive odor that aids quick leak detection is also relatively lightweight, allowing effective control of leaking gases. It also offers the benefit of low explosive properties. However, it presents certain challenges such as corrosive properties towards metals and toxicity, necessitating meticulous safety-focused design considerations.
In this project, SHI carried out the conceptual design of the fuel system and the basic design of the vessel, taking into account ammonia's unique characteristics. Additionally, SHI devised systems for fuel supply, ventilation, and gas monitoring tailored to the ammonia fuel system. The basic design was completed to meet classification rules to ensure the safety of the enlarged tank and hull.
KR verified the safety of the ammonia fuel system and supported the optimization of the tank and hull structure. The classification society also verified the design suitability of the ultra-large ammonia carrier by thoroughly reviewing domestic and international regulations.
JANG Haeki, Executive Vice President(CTO) of SHI Engineering Operations, said: "Clean ammonia is an environmentally friendly energy source and is expected to play a significant role in energy transportation in the future hydrogen society. Ultra-large ammonia carriers will also be in demand in the future to handle the increasing volume of cargo. This approval of the ultra-large ammonia ship with ammonia fuel system enables rapid commercialization, and we will continue to make our efforts to develop green technologies to lead the next-generation ship market."
KIM Yeontae, Executive Vice President of KR Technical Division, said:
"Through this project, the two companies have laid an important foundation for the commercialization of ultra-large ammonia ships. KR will continue to provide outstanding technical support for the development of green ships in cooperation with various stakeholders in the shipping industry."
Separately, KR has awarded an AIP for an LNG dual-fuel VLGC (Very Large Gas Carrier) jointly developed by KR and HD Hyundai Heavy Industries (HD HHI), and for 'design and test procedures for implementing cyber resilience of ship and onboard systems' to SHI, both also presented at Gastech.
London retains crown as leading global centre for maritime arbitration, handling 85% of global caseload
London handled more than 85% of the world’s maritime arbitration in 2022 according to the findings of a comprehensive new report published this week by global law firm HFW, cementing the capital’s position as the overwhelming forum of choice for international shipping arbitrations.
The report - The Maritime Arbitration Universe in Numbers – analyses the latest figures from leading maritime arbitration associations and institutions, including those not yet publicly available. London was revealed to have maintained its position as the global centre for international maritime and transportation arbitration cases in 2022, handling approximately 1,907 new cases. This represents an almost 12% increase on the 1,703 cases in 2021.
London’s closest rival Singapore handled 96 new references – the equivalent of 5% of the capital’s caseload - despite reports of the Asian state’s growing popularity as an arbitral seat. Paris, meanwhile, handled 36, approximately 2% of London’s caseload, and Dubai handled 0.4% of London’s caseload.
Maritime and transport arbitration featured prominently in London arbitration institutions’ caseloads in 2022, with the LMAA seeing the highest volume of references since 2016 and 37% of the London Court of International Arbitration’s referrals for arbitration falling within this sector, an increase from 14% increase compared with the previous year.
Commenting on the report’s findings, Michael Ritter, Partner at HFW, said: “London has long held a reputation as a trusted and neutral forum for international arbitration cases, and with a history of maritime expertise, it is clear that it remains the favoured jurisdiction for maritime arbitration.
Figures from our research show that Brexit has not threatened London’s status as the most trusted jurisdiction for the resolution of shipping arbitrations, with the capital’s crown looking set to remain unchallenged going into 2024. Furthermore, London’s nimble responses to challenges such as the Covid-19 pandemic have only further solidified its position in the market.
While international competition is on the rise, with other key players such as Singapore and Hong Kong emerging from the rest of the pack, we do not expect to see any significant decline in London’s popularity in the years ahead.”
The full report can be accessed on HFW’s website.
Is shipping ready for new emissions reduction targets, asks Baseblue
The maritime industry has a clear path to follow after the outcome of this summer’s IMO MEPC 80 meeting and the European Union’s previously defined targets, notes Dionysis Diamantopoulos, Key Account Analyst at marine fuels specialist Baseblue Ltd.
With a significantly more ambitious target of achieving Net-Zero by 2050 and introducing intermediary targets, including a 20% reduction of all GHG emissions by 2030 and a 70% reduction by 2040, it is evident that not only Europe but also the UN/IMO are deeply committed to environmental protection and emissions reduction is a top priority.
Despite the differing targets set by the EU and IMO, there is generally a common approach. Europe has implemented economic and technical measures by incorporating the Maritime Industry into the EU ETS and establishing FuelEU. This initiative sets the mandatory requirements necessary for adopting alternative fuels while also assessing the emissions profile of fuels on a well-to-wake basis.
On the other hand, the IMO has also addressed technical measures by establishing LCA (Life Cycle Assessment) guidelines and presenting the emissions profile of fuels on the same basis. However, discussions regarding economic measures still remain to be determined, despite rumours suggesting the implementation of an EU-like system.
It's clearer than ever that the Maritime Industry ecosystem has much to digest and address to achieve compliance, which is of grave importance to retain competitiveness and ensure survival and future success. The new reality dictates that change must be adopted. For some companies, the transition will be smoother, given their corporate DNA of innovation, while for others who are less accustomed to change, the process might feel abrupt.
At Baseblue, we firmly believe that planning and proactivity are paramount during times of change. This is why we stay constantly updated on both local and international regulations, all while evolving and embracing new solutions and work methodologies from within. We aim to move from the traditional and segmented trading model towards a more proactive and holistic approach.
We believe that there are three pillars upon which every company in the shipping ecosystem must focus. First, optimising vessel efficiency is of the utmost importance to reduce consumption and consequently minimise GHG emissions. Through our premier software and platform, we assist our clients in fleet monitoring, offering top-tier weather routing services and voyage calculation tools. Additionally, our post-fixing department closely tracks all deliveries in coordination with agents, physical suppliers, and surveyors to ensure seamless operations and comprehensive documentation of sampling and surveying.
Secondly, integrating alternative fuels and the corresponding regulatory guidelines for decarbonisation (EU, IMO) highlights the essential need for compliance support. We maintain an extensive global network of alternative fuel suppliers and have initiated supplies for our clients bolstered by our ISCC certification. We guide our clients in transitioning to the new regulatory landscape daily and offer comprehensive consultation on their global alternative fuel requirements.
Third, as the EU emissions trading scheme (EU ETS) puts a price on CO2 emissions, reporting and paying for these will become essential. European companies are called to report their emissions and “pay” for them by returning allowance titles called EUAs or European Allowances. We have created a specialised emissions module within our software ecosystem that will allow companies to perform easy calculations and save time in their reporting process whilst also being able to budget voyages considering calculations on the EUA costs. Additionally, through our paper trading desk, a regulated entity that can trade in the European Energy Exchange, we can provide our clients with both consultation and actual EUAs.
The waves of the future are moving, and so are we. The real question is, are you ready?
UAE MOEI and the International Chamber of Shipping unveil plans for COP28
The shipping industry will come together at a series of events during the UNFCCC Climate Conference COP28. The major summit – titled ‘Shaping the Future of Shipping’ – will be hosted under the patronage of His Excellency Suhail Mohamed Al Mazrouei, United Arab Emirates’ (UAE) Minister for Energy and Infrastructure (MOEI) at the Museum of the Future (pictured) in Dubai.
The high-profile summit, taking place on 10 December 2023, will follow a Ministerial Roundtable on the 9 December 2023 at COP28 hosted by the UAE’s Ministry of Energy and Infrastructure. The ‘Shaping the Future of Shipping’ Summit will culminate with a gala dinner held in honour of the IMO Secretary General, Kitack Lim, prior to his stepping down from post at the end of the year.
The ‘Shaping the Future of Shipping’ summit, which is being organised by the International Chamber of Shipping and a range of industry bodies, will once again bring together governments and leaders in energy, maritime and all parts of the value chain. The aim of the event is to work on the practical solutions and take forward plans to address climate change, help sustainably transition the industry and prepare the workforce.
This will build on the momentum of the historic agreement made at the IMO during MEPC80 in July 2023. The summit is an opportunity for industry leaders and policymakers to identify the practical actions needed to deliver on the direction set out by governments at the IMO and during the COP negotiations.
The plans for COP28 are being unveiled following discussions with H.E. Hessa al Malek, Advisor to the UAE Minister for Maritime Transport Affairs, and Guy Platten, ICS Secretary General, that took place at the IMO in London in July. Key issues in the energy maritime value chain were discussed, as well as plans for COP28.
H.E. Hessa al Malek, Advisor to the UAE Minister for Maritime Transport Affairs, commented: “We are honored to host COP28 in Dubai and are committed to working alongside our international partners to address the urgent issue of climate change in the maritime industry. This summit marks a significant milestone in our collective efforts to shape the future of shipping. We look forward to constructive discussions and tangible solutions that will help us transition towards a more sustainable and environmentally responsible maritime sector.”
Guy Platten, ICS Secretary General, said: “All industries and governments have a responsibility to tackle climate change, but we know that we cannot achieve our goals alone. This is why Shaping the Future of Shipping is such an important event. This summit is an opportunity to bring sectors and governments together in one place to talk about our challenges and most importantly find tangible solutions to achieve our goals.”
“2050 is not that far away so we must keep momentum going for increased collaboration and cooperation. Infrastructure, fuel availability, financing, preparing our workforce to handle low and zero carbon emission fuels are all challenges we need to urgently address.”
In December 2022, ICS signed a memorandum of understanding with the Emirates Shipping Association for collaboration towards the UNFCCC Climate Conference COP28 and beyond. The Shaping the Future of Shipping summit is an outcome of this cooperation and demonstrates the strength of the relationship with the UAE and its shipping industry.
The UAE has played a leading role in the formation of the Clean Energy Marine Hubs (CEM Hubs) initiative that intends to support the establishment of Energy Hubs with access to ports by de-risking the investments needed to produce low- and zero-emission fuels to be transported and used by the maritime sector. The CEM Hubs initiative, which is co-led by five governments and a taskforce of CEOs, aims is to become the high-level platform that can catalyse and support the alignment of effort across the energy-maritime value chain. The initiative is co-ordinated with the support of the ICS and the International Association of Ports and Harbours (IAPH), and the Clean Energy Ministerial (CEM) and was formally adopted by the Clean Energy Ministerial with Energy and Transport Ministers this July.
The Shaping the Future of Shipping Summit builds on the previous summits convened by ICS at COP26 in Glasgow, London in June 2022 and Manila in June 2023.
GMS launches world's first global Ship Recycling Portal for sale of ships for recycling
GMS, the world's largest buyer of ship and offshore assets, has announced the launch of its pioneering digital platform, the "Ship Recycling Portal." GMS introduced the groundbreaking initiative at an exclusive event in Bhavnagar, India, attended by over 80 leading ship recyclers.
The platform aims to revolutionize the ship recycling industry by making the sales and purchase of end-of-life vessels more convenient, transparent, and efficient.
The Ship Recycling Portal is a specialized vessel auction platform designed to streamline the sale of ships directly to shipyards for recycling. This innovative venture by GMS ensures transparent and reliable auctions that enable closer collaboration between yard owners and cash buyers. Ship recyclers now have the flexibility to make real-time decisions on the vessels they wish to purchase, all from the comfort of their offices or homes.
Key Features of the Portal are described as being:
- Transparency: Real-time auction shows what price other ship recyclers offer, allowing buyers to make informed decisions.
- Convenience: Buy a ship whenever the ship recycler wants, from wherever they are—no need to visit an office for face-to-face negotiations.
- Flexibility: Choose which ship to buy and how much to pay.
- Broader Participation: Access will be given to ship owners and other cash buyers in future releases.
"Ship recycling is an important pillar of the maritime industry, and it is time to bring it into the digital age," said Dr. Anil Sharma (pictured), Founder and CEO of GMS. "Post-Covid, society prefers to transact B2B transactions online. In the next ten years, as the supply of ships for recycling and the demand for transparency increases, it's the right time to introduce selling ships online.
“The Ship Recycling Portal is not just a product; it's a paradigm shift. We're setting a new industry standard by centralizing and simplifying the transaction process for ship recycling.
“This portal eliminates the complexities and uncertainties that have long plagued our sector, offering a streamlined, user-friendly platform that is transparent and reliable. As we roll out this pioneering initiative, we're not just advancing GMS; we're revolutionizing the very fabric of the ship recycling industry for the better."
While GMS is the sponsor and creator of the Ship Recycling Portal, the platform will be available to other shipowners and cash buyers, aiming to become the primary method for delivering vessels to ship recycling yards. This platform will also allow GMS to offer its extensive services, knowledge, and sales capabilities to a broader spectrum of buyers.
"As we navigate a global landscape increasingly influenced by digital transformation, the Ship Recycling Portal introduced by GMS is a long-anticipated advancement in our industry,” commented Komalkant Sharma, Chairman of Leela Ship Recycling Group. “It represents more than just a technological milestone; it's a functional breakthrough that significantly elevates the ease and transparency with which we can execute real-time purchasing decisions for end-of-life vessels. This is not merely a step forward; it is a quantum leap that defines the future of ship recycling."
OneCare Solutions releases groundbreaking mobile app with holistic approach to seafarer wellbeing
Leading corporate wellbeing provider OneCare Solutions (OCS) has launched the OneCare Solutions Mobile App, a digital platform for accessing and monitoring myriad programmes for an individual’s wellbeing including physical and mental health; eLearning and training for personal development will be integrated in the future. This holistic approach to make individuals healthier and more productive reflects a core commitment of OneCare Solutions.
“We recognise that health and learning are the two most important investments that individuals can make for their own wellbeing, and we want to create a pathway for a single solution to foster that incredible human capital,” says Marinos Kokkinis, Managing Director of OneCare Solutions.
The mobile app provides easy access to health resources on mental, social, and physical wellbeing, including content about such topics as depression, anxiety, breathing techniques, healthy living, food choices, nutrition, and exercise. With the app, decisions can be made based on data that provides recommendations, early warning signals about physical and mental health, and ways to improve wellbeing.
In addition to health resources, the app will soon incorporate learning initiatives including training from leading maritime eLearning provider OneLearn Global (OLG), which has been integrated with OCS to accelerate human capital dimensions of health and wellbeing, training, and eLearning into one platform.
“In today’s technology-driven world, apps are a powerful tool that we are harnessing in a way that can help people improve their wellbeing in all aspects of their lives,” says Mr Kokkinis.
“With our background in serving the maritime industry, we are acutely aware of how important apps on personal devices can be for helping a person feel connected when in a remote situation. We believe the OneCare Solutions App can truly make a difference in seafarer’s lives.”
OCS is a leading health and wellbeing platform whose primary offering is a collection of services for the maritime industry including, trainings, medical advisory and medical inventory management, telemedicine, nutrition consulting, public health support and mental health support to seafarers around the globe.
For more information and to request a demo of the OneCare Solutions App please visit: https://onecare.solutions/
Discover the app on Google Play or Apple App Store
Carriers drive up ocean freight rates on main Far East to US West Coast trade with savvy capacity cuts
After a year of plunging ocean freight rates, carriers appear to have turned the tide on the key China to US West Coast trade, driving up spot rates by 73% since the end of June. The latest market data from Oslo’s Xeneta shows that long-term contracted rates on the corridor are also on a firm upward trajectory, having climbed 25% since the lows of June.
Xeneta’s data, crowd sourced from leading shippers worldwide, has painted a bleak picture for carriers over the course of the last year, with nosediving spot rates and long-term contracted prices slumping by over 60% since last summer. However, as Peter Sand (pictured), Chief Analyst at Xeneta, explains, a group effort by carriers to regain a sense of control appears to be paying dividends.
“Capacity management is king when it comes to controlling rates, and faced with weak demand and a surplus of vessels it was clear to carriers that something had to be done,” he says. “What we’ve seen in response to that are some very bold, united moves from the industry that, it seems, are succeeding in turning the tables.”
“In the second quarter of 2023, carriers collectively reduced offered capacity from Asia to the North America West Coast by 7% year-on-year, hoping to deliver a rates ‘shot in the arm’. However, General Rate Increases (GRIs) implemented in mid-April and early-June failed to stick. Undaunted, they doubled down on this tactic, moving to slash capacity by 14% year-on-year in July and August. Did that work? The data provides a clear answer.”
Sand reveals that spot rates on the trade currently sit at an 11-month high, having climbed to USD 2,200 per FEU. Furthermore, long-term contracts are also on the way up, with agreements entering validity in August now exceeding the USD 2,000 per FEU mark.
In a sense, Sand comments, the carriers “have outsmarted the shippers here.”
He notes: “This may come as a nasty surprise to some shippers, who have become accustomed to falling rates and, in the face of uncertain consumer demand, have held back from signing new long-term contracts. Now they’re in the difficult position of seeing strong rates growth before they’ve put pen to paper on a new agreement. This, and any further delays, could prove to be very costly.”
According to Xeneta, with the collective effort from carriers – and the fact that nervous shippers may now have to lock-in volumes – rates are likely to continue their upward trend during September. Furthermore, added upward pressure could be exerted by the arrival of China’s Golden Week holiday in the first week of October, as Sand points out:
“In normal years we see a boost in offered capacity before the shut down and then a reduction afterwards, but, as we know, 2023 has not been a normal year.
“Carriers are now laser-focused on managing capacity diligently to retain rates control, so they’re actually already announcing blanked sailings for week 39, the week before the holiday, and week 41, when it concludes. Further announcements are expected in the weeks to come, so we can see there’s a clear, collective effort to get the supply/demand balance right and maintain rates at the levels they want.
“Shippers need to be aware of this,” he concludes. “Savvy management from the carriers demands an equally proactive approach from shippers, with a clear picture of rates development to get the value their businesses need. There’s no room for complacency in the world of ocean freight rates negotiations and, in such a dynamic situation, that’s never been truer than it is now.”
LR and COSCO intend to join forces for LNG fleet decarbonisation pathway project
Lloyd’s Register (LR) and Shanghai COSCO SHIPPING LNG investment (COSCO), a subsidiary of China Shipping Corporation Limited, have signed a partner agreement for the intention of a new project that aims to formulate and assess the decarbonisation pathway for COSCO Shipping’s existing LNG carrier fleet.
The intention was signed formally with a Letter of Intent (LOI) at Gastech 2023 and will focus on providing COSCO with insights to enable them to make their existing fleet of LNG carriers carbon neutral by 2040.
As part of the project LR will support on analysis of COSCO’s fleet operations characteristics and carbon emissions, looking at future carbon reduction energy transition practices alongside future fuels, energy efficiency technology and retrofit plans.
The intended project would see the further development of COSCO’s fleet capacity, future energy adoption and efficiency transformation, based on the shifting landscapes of world trade and the development planning of shipping companies.
Sau Weng Tang, Lloyd’s Register, Commercial Manager - Greater China, said: “The decarbonisation of our industry is going to require open collaboration between the entire maritime value chain. This is why projects and partnerships like this are so important, they provide an opportunity for fleet operators to thoroughly analyse the options available to them to enable them to reach their own and industry mandated requirements for maritime decarbonisation.
“LR is proud to work alongside one of the key players in the LNG sector in COSCO and we look forward to providing our technical expertise as a trusted adviser on this project to ensure COSCO can successfully navigate their journey towards a carbon neutral fleet by 2040.”
Lin Nan, GM, COSCO SHIPPING LNG investment (Shanghai) said: “In the context of IMO maritime decarbonisation strategy, CSLNG, as an international LNG shipping company, COSCO will endeavour to fulfil the responsibility and accountability to achieve our LNGC fleets' carbon reduction and provide low-carbon and efficient LNG transportation services for the industry. In this effort, we appreciate valuable cooperation between the industrial chain, including the open support from the expertise of LR.”
ABS awards AIP for Bumi Armada’s pioneering carbon storage and injection vessel
ABS has awarded Approval in Principle (AIP) for Bumi Armada’s pioneering design for a floating carbon storage and injection unit (FCSIU).
Bumi Armada’s FCSIU concept is a floating terminal capable of storing and injecting liquified carbon dioxide (LCO2) into depleted oil and gas fields or aquifers. This novel concept incorporates the ability to accept LCO2 deliveries in an offshore setting, the flexibility to manage LCO2 at low or medium pressure, the provision of LCO2 buffer storage and the preparation of LCO2 for sequestration - permanent storage of CO2 deep beneath the seabed.
The FCSIU can receive LCO2 from various sources, such as electricity generation, manufacturing and construction, offering a new solution for reducing CO2 emissions from these industries.
The AIP is applicable to either a new build or a converted donor carrier, with smaller tanks to optimize the cargo space layout.
“Carbon capture and reinjection in depleted fields is a promising technology for reducing greenhouse gas emissions, and it is likely that this process will become more widespread and play an increasingly important role in the transition to a low-carbon economy,” said John McDonald, ABS President and Chief Operating Officer. “ABS is a leader in the field and is committed to supporting the safe development and adoption of the technology.”
Gary Christenson, Bumi Armada’s Chief Executive Officer, said: “We are excited to bring sustainable and scalable solutions to reduce carbon emissions, which is also in line with Bumi Armada’s recently launched decarbonization agenda to achieve net zero by 2050. This solution is a testament to our strong commitment towards providing the best decarbonization solutions globally.”
Five-way teaming on development of ammonia-fuelled ammonia bunkering tanker agreed in Singapore
ClassNK, Consort Bunkers, Daihatsu Diesel Mfg., Daikai Engineering, and SeaTech Solutions International (S) have concluded a Memorandum of Understanding concerning a joint study on an ammonia-fuelled ammonia bunkering tanker. The MOU was signed by representatives of all five parties with the presence of an official from Maritime and Port Authority of Singapore at the Gastech2023 event held in Singapore last week.
Consort Bunkers operates bunkering ships in Singapore, the world's largest bunkering port; Daihatsu Diesel develops alternative fuel engines including ammonia; Daikai Engineering provides sales of machinery and marine equipment and after-sales service in the Southeast Asian region; ClassNK is a leading class society involved in the safety assessment of ships; and SeaTech Solutions International designs ships equipped with alternative fuel engines. They have all agreed to jointly study the concept design of the ammonia fuelled ammonia tanker and the issuance of relevant Approval in Principle.
Under the MOU witnessed by Maritime and Port Authority of Singapore, the five parties will pool their expertise and collaborate toward the realization of decarbonized shipping.
Hayato Suga, Executive Vice President, ClassNK said: "It is our great pleasure to work together with prominent partners to fill in the pieces for advancing decarbonization of shipping. ClassNK will strive to fulfill its role, reviewing the safety and integrity of the developed design in accordance with our rules related to ammonia transport and its use as fuel, and hope to materialize the outcome as our AiP."
Yeo Siok Keak, Director/General Manager, Consort Bunkers Pte Ltd, said: "We are much honoured to be part of this collaboration with the various esteemed partners on the development of ammonia bunkering. Consort is looking forward to rendering full support in the collaborative study for concept design and AiP initiative towards the realization of decarbonized shipping."
Yoichi Hayata, Director, Technical Management Division, Daihatsu Diesel Mfg. Co., said: "Recently, there has been an urgent need to reduce GHG emissions from ships, and the use of ammonia as a zero-carbon fuel has been attracting attention, however, there are issues with combustibility and safety. We have already conducted basic tests on ammonia, and have obtained knowledge on combustion characteristics, trends in exhaust gas emissions, precautions for handling, etc. Utilizing this knowledge, we will join forces with MOU member companies and contribute to the cooperation in acquiring ammonia bunkering vessel AiP and the development of GHG reduction technology."
Mikio Kaneda, Managing Director, Daikai Engineering Pte., said: "We are both honoured and excited to be part of this collaborative venture. The maritime industry stands at the cusp of a transformative era, and our joint effort to develop an ammonia-fueled vessel embodies our collective commitment to sustainable innovation. Together, we are not just envisioning a greener future; we are actively working to make it a reality."
Govinder Singh Chopra, Managing Director, SeaTech Solutions International (S) Pte said: "SeaTech is committed to the MPA initiative for the Net Zero decarbonization of Singapore Harbour Vessels. I am looking forward to embarking on this new chapter of sustainable innovation with Consort Bunkers, ClassNK, Daihatsu Diesel and Daikai."
Capt. M Segar, Assistant Chief Executive (Operations), Maritime and Port Authority of Singapore, said: "MPA welcomes studies, pilots, and collaborations that contribute to the maritime sector’s decarbonisation efforts. Joint studies such as the one under this MOU, are useful in bringing together the collective expertise and experience of various leading stakeholders to deepen the industry’s knowledge and confidence in handling the new future fuels, and to accelerate the development of future fuel solutions to meet the revised IMO GHG emission ambitions for international shipping.“
London company market premium increases to $44bn
Total premium income for the London company market in 2022 was £44.071bn, a new report by the International Underwriting Association (IUA) has revealed. The figure represents an increase of around one quarter on the previous year when an aggregate of £35.654bn was recorded.
The overall intellectual and economic premium for 2022 comprises £37.626bn written in London (up from £30.114bn in 2021), plus a further £6444bn (£5.540bn in 2021) written in locations outside the City, but overseen and managed by London operations.
The latest annual edition of the IUA’s London Company Market Statistics Report includes significant enhancements to provide a more detailed analysis of activity in the sector. New lines of business, such as commercial crime, specie and surety have been added to the research. There is also a new breakdown of marine premium.
Premium growth has been largely driven by inflationary price increases, but new business acquisitions following investments in underwriting talent have also been important. The invasion of Ukraine has led to risk-adjusted price increases in certain classes such as political violence, but has also reduced income for other accounts due to a cessation of Russian-exposed business.
Dave Matcham, Chief Executive of the IUA, said: “Our research this year once again provides concrete evidence of a thriving and unique community of insurers and reinsurers. IUA members continue to grow their operations across a wide range of business classes and geographies.
“This report shows the full extent of international speciality and wholesale coverage provided by companies in London. The income generated by such firms is significant, and an important contributor to the UK economy.”
Property remains the largest class of business for premium written in London, accounting for 27% of the company market total. Liability and professional lines business each account for a further 15%. Both property and marine premium grew significantly in 2022, the former by a quarter and the latter by a third. Other notable growth rates were observed in professional lines and cyber.
North America is an increasingly important source of business for London companies, generating overall premium of £9.454bn in 2022, up from £7.207 the previous year.
For a full breakdown of premium statistics, copies of the London Company Market Statistics Report 2022 are freely available to download from the IUA’s website at www.iua.co.uk/statisticsreport.
80m boost for coastal communities and green shipping as London International Shipping Week gets underway
Coastal communities across the UK are set to benefit from over £80 million of government funding as the winners of the Zero Emission Vessel and Infrastructure fund (ZEVI) are announced - supporting economic growth and boosting the UK’s decarbonisation efforts.
Announced at the start of London International Shipping Week - bringing together the world leaders in the maritime sector - the projects showcase the benefits maritime technology can bring to communities from Orkney to Portsmouth.
Whether it’s Artemis Technologies who are demonstrating inter-island electric ferries, helping boost regional connectivity and economic opportunity, or Tidal Transit Ltd who are electrifying a crew transfer vessel for offshore wind farms and enabling greener sustainable energy, today’s winners have a crucial role to play in cleaning up the sector’s reliance on fossil fuels.
Transport Secretary Mark Harper said: “London International Shipping week is the perfect time to showcase the work we're doing to generate maritime jobs across the country and develop new, clean technologies.
“Today’s winners are at the cutting edge of the nation’s maritime industry – a crucial part of this Government’s plan to grow the economy, creating better-paid jobs and opportunity right across the UK.”
Maritime Minister Baroness Vere said: “The maritime sector’s drive towards a cleaner future goes hand in hand with the Government’s plan to grow the economy and create new, well-paid jobs all over the UK.
“As a seafaring nation, it is in our national character to push nautical limits, and this funding will help to ensure the UK maintains its position at the leading edge of maritime innovation. I look forward to seeing all the industry has to offer over the course of London International Shipping Week.”
London International Shipping Week, which runs from 11 September to 15 September, is one of the most important international shipping and maritime events in the world.
Having grown consistently – and rapidly – since its conception in September 2013, this year’s event is the 10th anniversary and will explore the future of maritime with decarbonisation and the influx of artificial intelligence.
The Transport Secretary will view one of Artemis Technologies’ clean vessels on the River Thames this morning, before chairing a roundtable at No10 Downing Street with senior representatives from maritime, technology and academia on artificial intelligence in maritime and the opportunities it presents for economic growth. The Maritime Minister will also be attending events throughout the week.
Sarah Treseder, CEO of UK Chamber of Shipping said: “The number of applications meant hard decisions had to be made but shows the strong desire to reduce emissions across the sector and the successful projects will be a crucial element in the journey to net zero.
“Published today, our Value of Shipping report shows that 650,000 jobs are dependent on shipping with every job in shipping supporting 10 more in the wider economy. This welcome funding is a chance to build on this strong foundation and help shipping deliver further jobs, innovation and economic growth in all parts of the UK.”
Maritime UK CEO Chris Shirling-Rooke said: “Britain has always been an island of maritime pioneers. The winners of today’s fund, and the global leadership on show during London International Shipping Week, shows this tradition will continue long into the future.
“But while London hosts maritime leaders across the world, our coastal communities play an equally significant part in this story. They are the UK’s gateways to the world, and through maritime, they can have a high tech and high skilled future as engine rooms of our green industrial revolution.”
The multi-million-pound Zero Emission Vessels and Infrastructure (ZEVI) fund, launched in February, is designed to take tech from the factory to the sea by supporting projects which have a long-term impact in reducing carbon emissions.
Successful projects must show they could use this money to work with major UK ports and operators to launch a zero-emission vessel by 2025 at the latest.
One project on the south coast of England, the Zero Emission Network of Workboats, claim their work will deliver savings of 1000 tonnes of CO2 over the span of the three-year demonstration. That’s a saving equivalent to 113,000km driven by an HGV – saving millions of tonnes of CO2 if implemented around the world.
This funding will also support an emission free postal service through Thames Clipper’s project to use a 100% electric fast vessel to deliver Amazon parcels from Dartford to Tower Bridge Quay.
Hundreds of jobs are being supported thanks to ZEVI with the resulting research and development helping the sector shift its energy source away from fossil fuels.
Portsmouth International Port has predicted the funding it’s receiving will help them deliver their 20-year plan and grow their employment from just under 6,000 to just over 40,000 while Collins River Enterprises have forecasted a boost in job numbers by up to 800 thanks to today’s funding.
Mike Sellers, director of Portsmouth International Port said: “As a port owned by the people of Portsmouth, we have a duty to ensure that we grow sustainably and for the benefit of our local communities.
“I’m proud of our ambitious sustainability goals and this project will see us be able to not only provide shore power for ships on three of our berths, but also provide power for the hybrid Brittany Ferries ships coming in 2025. We’re looking forward to working with the Department for Transport and Innovate UK to realise the full potential of this project for the UK and the shipping industry.
“I’d like to thank my team at the port and our partners in the SEA CHANGE consortium for all their hard work in getting this bid over the line. This is a ground-breaking project that will not only benefit the city and the wider region but also the planet, by slashing carbon emissions, improving air quality and providing new high-skilled jobs.”
Christophe Mathieu, CEO of Brittany Ferries said: “The arrival of two LNG-hybrid ships in spring 2025, will be the climax of the biggest fleet renewal programme in our history.
“Upon arrival, the vessels will be good neighbours to those who live and work around Portsmouth, the busiest port in our network. Furthermore, thanks to ZEVI funding, their plug-in potential will be unlocked from day one and I can’t think of a better place to celebrate this fantastic news than the start of LISW.”
The ZEVI fund is part of the UK SHORE programme, launched in March 2022 with £206 million in funding. UK SHORE aims to tackle shipping emissions and advance the UK towards a sustainable shipping future.
Launch of UK Shipbuilding Skills Taskforce report
Today as part of London International Shipping Week, the UK Shipbuilding Skills Taskforce has published its report ‘A Step Change in UK Shipbuilding Skills’ and a supporting toolkit for shipbuilding employers ‘How to Leverage UK Skills Systems’.
Dr Paul Little, Principal of City of Glasgow College and chair of the Taskforce, is launching the report on the Trinity House vessel Galatea during a speech to an audience of people from across the maritime and education sectors.
There are four key priorities set out in the report:
· To establish a new, sector-wide narrative for shipbuilding to promote it as a vibrant and inclusive sector;
· To help the sector engage more productively with the existing skills system, to leverage and maximise its use;
· To forecast the impact of technological change in the sector on skills; and
· To set up an industry-led skills delivery group to oversee and drive delivery of the recommendations, and to be a voice for skills for shipbuilding.
The Taskforce makes a number of recommendations linked to these priorities directed at employers, educators and governments across the UK. A key theme of the report is the importance of continued cooperation and communication between government, industry employers, trade unions and training and education providers. The Taskforce believes this cooperative approach will enable the skills system across all four nations to rapidly respond to changing employer requirements as technology advances, and grow the supply of STEM skills that the shipbuilding sector needs to succeed.
The Taskforce has also developed a toolkit to help employers, especially smaller businesses, engage with the skills system. This has been released today alongside the report. The toolkit is intended to raise employer awareness of how to use free and funded initiatives to promote shipbuilding and recruit or train skilled people.
Taskforce Chair, Honorary Captain Dr Paul Little CBE: “This is a game-changing report that is set to transform UK shipbuilding skills for the medium and longer term. Our report is a public call to action; to industry, education, and government, to act decisively to implement our recommendations.”
The Ministry of Defence published the National Shipbuilding Strategy (NSbS) refresh in March 2022, which set the vision for increased competitiveness and productivity across the national shipbuilding enterprise. It included a chapter on skills, which committed the Department for Education to launch the Taskforce in collaboration with the National Shipbuilding Office.
The Taskforce was established in July 2022 as an 18-month task and finish group, charged with building a picture of UK shipbuilding’s skills needs and making recommendations to resolve skills shortages, particularly those related to new and emerging technologies. Membership of the Taskforce is drawn from across the UK, including senior representatives from the shipbuilding sector, with expertise spanning shipbuilding employers, trade unions, key educators and academic researchers.
The Taskforce will continue working until December 2023, liaising with industry and educators to on its recommendations. The Government will publish a response to the report in the coming months.
Minister for Skills, Apprenticeships and Higher Education Robert Halfon said: “I welcome this report from the UK Shipbuilding Taskforce and thank the Chair, Honorary Captain Dr Paul Little CBE and all the members for their work to help us to develop a world-leading skills strategy that will boost training and job opportunities in the shipbuilding industry.
“The Taskforce’s report and recommendations will help make sure we can continue to develop the skilled workforce needed to ensure the industry goes from strength to strength, help more people climb the ladder of opportunity and support our economy to grow.
“We’re supporting young people to get into shipbuilding through a variety of routes. The Engineering and Manufacturing T Level provides a pathway into marine engineering, boatbuilding and welding. This can lead to an apprenticeship in many engineering specialisms including systems, mechanics, and robotics.”
Scottish Minister for Higher and Further Education Graeme Dey: said “I am pleased to note the publication today of the report of the Shipbuilding Skills Taskforce, to encourage a collaborative response across the sector with industry, our skills and education providers and regional economic partners.
“Shipbuilding and the marine sector are important to Scotland’s economy and to communities across the country, providing valued employment and exciting career opportunities. As we modernise manufacturing techniques and the drive to Net Zero, it is vital that we ensure that the Scottish workforce continues to hone the skills to enable the sector to deliver world class design, manufacture and servicing.”
Mike Brennan Permanent Secretary at Northern Ireland’s Department for the Economy said: “Northern Ireland has a long and illustrious history of shipbuilding and I welcome the taskforce report. The work of the taskforce highlights the importance of the skills agenda and collaboration between government, industry and the education sectors to support the shipbuilding industry. The shipbuilding sector provides significant economic and social benefits both locally and across the UK and we look forward to continuing to play our part with the Taskforce throughout the next phase of their work.”
Turkiye’s 17th Expomaritt Shipping Exhibition takes place 11-14 October at Istanbul’s Expo Center
Now in its 17th year, Expomaritt Exposhipping Istanbul, organized on behalf of the Chamber of Shipping-Turkiye, will be held from 11-14 October 2023 and looks forward to welcoming members of the international maritime and shipping community.
Being the center of finance and industry of Turkiye, Istanbul can be defined as a business
hub for world markets thus remains its global importance for centuries. One of these important events is Turkiye's premium shipbuilding and subsidiary industry exhibition Expomaritt Exposhipping Istanbul, which is a global event gathering thousands of people from over seventy countries in Istanbul for an unforgettable 4 days of ideas and connections. Expomaritt is a place for potential great collaborations and hundreds of opportunities. The event is being organized by the world's #1 exhibition organizer Informa Markets bi-annually on behalf of the Chamber of Shipping-Turkiye.
Informa Markets is also the organizer of world-leading maritime exhibitions and conferences including Seatrade Cruise Global, Sea Asia, and Seatrade Maritime Middle East, Seatrade Offshore Marine & Workboats Middle East.
Today, the Turkish Shipbuilding Industry, with an annual construction capacity of 4.65 million tons, has signed many “mosts” and “first”s and continues to do so, such as the world's largest live fish transport vessel, the first LNG-powered tugboat, the first hybrid ferry, the world's first battery and LNG-powered fishing vessel, the first energy conversion vessels, the largest like a sailing yacht. In addition, Turkiye has become one of the few countries in the world to build its own military ships and is among the top three in the world in yacht building.
With its high-quality workforce and production capacity meeting European Standards and quality, the Turkish Shipbuilding Industry can compete with the leading countries in the maritime industry, particularly in new shipbuilding, ship maintenance-repair, and defense industry projects.
Turkiye’s strengths in the industry: its geographical location between Europe and Asia, enough highly skilled labor force including well-trained naval architects, a worldwide recognition in small tonnage ships (small chemical tankers, tugs, mega yachts), shipyards flexibly responding to market conditions (shift to other ship types and reorientation to ship repair & conversion). Since there is an increasing demand for greener ships and luxury yachts worldwide, the opportunities for the Turkish Shipbuilding Industry are endless.
Kumiai Navigation to retrofit LPG tanker with Alfa Laval OceanGlide fluidic air lubrication system
Alfa Laval has been selected for installation of its OceanGlide fluidic air lubrication system on a 54k DWT LPG tanker owned by Kumiai Navigation, a Southeast Asian LPG tanker and bulk carrier company. With this order, Alfa Laval has added LPG tankers to vessel types that can benefit from OceanGlide fluidic air lubrication system. The system can be installed on both new and existing ships with ease.
As shipowners worldwide navigate the dynamic landscape of maritime sustainability, Alfa Laval OceanGlide offers a uniquely efficient and easy-to-install air lubrication solution. This patented system uses fluidic technology to generate an even, controllable air layer across a vessel’s entire flat bottom, reducing friction and drag. By decreasing the vessel's resistance, OceanGlide offers a proven method for reducing fuel consumption and CO2 emissions.
“In these challenging times, we recognize that reliable partners such as Alfa Laval, are needed to achieve our sustainability goals,” says Tomo Kuroyanagi, Managing Director, Kumiai Navigation. “We want to invest in green shipping practices to help us lower our power consumption and comply with upcoming environmental regulations. In this effort, OceanGlide fluidic air lubrication is currently one of the best available solutions that offer remarkable gains in improving vessel performance and meeting our environmental targets.”
The decision to choose OceanGlide originates from the customer’s ambition to reduce the vessel’s energy consumption and emissions, coupled with the company’s trust in Alfa Laval’s solution to make a significant impact on vessel’s carbon footprint.
“We are pleased to partner up with our customer, Kumiai Navigation, to serve the LPG tanker segment with our fluidic air lubrication system, OceanGlide,” says Rajiv Sarin, Head of Air Lubrication, Alfa Laval. “We value the trust our partner has in our technology and collaboration to help them achieve their goal of sailing sustainably. As the market for OceanGlide fluidic air lubrication grows, we are happy to support our customers in their efforts to reduce CO2 emissions and improve energy efficiency of their fleet as a retrofit or a new build installation.”
OceanGlide uses fluidic technology to create and control streamlined air layer sections on the vessel’s flat bottom, each with its own fluidic band. The independent steering of each band allows a more controlled airflow to reduce friction between the hull and water. These individually controlled sections serve to minimize drag and ensure maximum coverage, eliminating passive cavities along the vessel’s underside.
Energy expenditure is minimized because there are few compressors and the bands add almost no drag when switched off. Air distribution bands are installed easily with minimal hull penetrations, which reduces shipyard time and costs, even as a retrofit.
OceanGlide is proven to reduce specific drag by 50–75% and can provide reliable fuel savings of up to 12% under real-life conditions. The actual amount of fuel savings achieved can vary depending on vessel operations & operator priorities.
The technology also supports compliance with EEDI/ EEXI and CII requirements laid down by the International Maritime Organization (IMO) to reduce greenhouse gas emissions.
“OceanGlide serves our goal of adopting advanced new sustainable technologies to remain competitive in this challenging market. We are excited to take advantage of the fluidic air lubrication technology to help us decarbonise and contribute towards our carbon reduction roadmap,” says Tomo from Kumiai Navigation.
Silverstream Technologies and COSCO Shipping Heavy Industry sign agreement to propel air lubrication uptake
Maritime clean technology company Silverstream Technologies and Chinese shipyard group COSCO Shipping Heavy Industry Co. Ltd (CHI) have signed a high-level memorandum of understanding (MOU) which will explore opportunities to install the Silverstream® System in CHI shipyards.
The MOU will foster a deeper level of collaboration between the two organisations and will enable Silverstream to assess how its technology could be licensed to fit within CHI’s technology portfolio. The agreement will also enable Silverstream to investigate additional options for the fabrication and supply of components of the Silverstream® System in China and the Asia-Pacific region, and it directly supports the company’s strategy of direct engagement with Chinese shipyards.
CHI is headquartered in Shanghai and operates nine shipyards – four for newbuilds and five for ship repairs. It ranks second in China for newbuild market share volumes and equal first in the repair/retrofits market. CHI operates yards for shipowners based around the world, including for its several sister COSCO Shipping companies.
Noah Silberschmidt, Founder & CEO, Silverstream Technologies, commented: “We are delighted to sign this MOU with CHI, which will enable us to work with the yard to find opportunities to install the Silverstream® System on ships built and repaired across its portfolio. Our established technology is fast becoming a standard selection on newbuild vessels and a leading retrofit option to improve vessel efficiency. In CHI, we have found another strong partner to help us continue to work towards this target. We look forward to a long-lasting and mutually beneficial relationship.”
Xiao Zijian, Commercial Director of CHQ, COSCO Shipping Heavy Industry, commented: “We are in a new era of transformation and development of the shipping industry. In order to meet shipowners' needs to upgrade the efficiency of their fleets, we pay close attention to the world's leading energy-saving clean technologies and marine products. We are therefore very pleased to establish the MOU with Silverstream Technologies, the leading supplier of hull air lubrication systems. Through the localisation of the supply chain and further installations of Silverstream’s technology, carried out in Chinese yards, we can play a complementary role in each other’s businesses and jointly provide high-quality and cost-effective vessel efficiency solutions to shipowners worldwide.”
In 2023, ship operators have submitted baseline performance statistics for the IMO’s Carbon Intensity Indicator (IMO CII) regulations. Ships will receive the first vessel efficiency ratings within the CII ranking framework in 2024. Additionally, CO2 emissions from ships above 5,000 GT and transporting cargo or passengers for commercial purposes will be included in the European Union Emissions Trading System (EU ETS) for the first time from 1 January 2024. With these new regulatory drivers becoming more impactful on vessel operations, the need for improved vessel efficiency, and therefore the need for adopting energy efficiency technologies, is only set to increase.
Silverstream is already meeting this increased demand for efficiency. As of August 2023, 179 vessels are contracted to have the Silverstream® System installed across all shipping segments, with 44 of those ships already in service with the system onboard. Silverstream is realistically targeting 500 orders by 2025.
ABS joins landmark project for dual-fuel ammonia carrier
At Gastech 2023, ABS signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) to review an innovative new design from HD Hyundai Heavy Industries (HHI) for a dual-fuel, very large ammonia carrier (VLAC) for Eastern Pacific Shipping Pte. Ltd. (EPS).
ABS joins project partners EPS, HHI and HHI Engine & Machinery Division, MAN Energy Solutions and the Maritime and Port Authority of Singapore.
Fuelled by ammonia and liquified natural gas (LNG), the 88K/93K cbm vessel design is expected to meet the demand for greenhouse gas reduction, in compliance with the latest International Maritime Organization (IMO) emission regulations. Four vessels are planned for construction at the HHI Ulsan shipyard in Korea.
“ABS is honoured to join EPS and this esteemed group of companies. With our technical expertise, long successful history with gas carriers and cutting-edge work in decarbonization and sustainability, we are the ideal partner to join this project. ABS is committed to leading the industry in supporting ammonia’s safe adoption at sea,” said John McDonald, ABS President and COO.
EPS CEO Cyril Ducau said: “We have been talking about energy transition and lowering emissions for years. Today, we are ready to talk about zero-emission solutions. The ammonia engines by MAN ES will be an inflection point for the maritime industry. In the next few years, we expect to operate vessels with significantly reduced emissions running on ammonia.
“Dual-fuel engines like LNG, LPG, and ethane will still play a significant role in various segments. However, with this engine, it will mean that this will be the first time that ocean going vessels will take a significant step towards zero carbon emissions. This is a an extremely exciting time for all of us.”
Separately, ABS approved Jiangnan Shipyard’s BrilliancE II liquefied gas containment system for VLEC at last week’s Gastech. ABS has awarded Jiangnan Shipyard approval in principle (AIP) for its BrilliancE II IMO Type B cryogenic liquefied gas containment system for very large ethane carriers (VLEC).
Thetius study highlights clear emissions reduction advantages of e1 Marine’s methanol to hydrogen fuel cell technology
An independent study conducted by maritime research house Thetius has revealed that methanol to hydrogen generator technology, developed by renewable energy technology pioneer e1 Marine, can significantly reduce EPA-regulated emissions by up to 99% when using grey methanol when compared with conventional diesel engines for inland waterway vessels. The technology can also reduce GHG emissions by up to 85% when using green methanol as feedstock in the same application.
The international maritime industry is under pressure to meet 2030 and 2050 IMO emissions goals, as well as local and global emissions rules, including those set by the US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and European Union (EU).
e1 Marine’s methanol to hydrogen generator technology makes it possible to convert methanol to fuel-cell grade hydrogen onboard a vessel. This provides a power source for hydrogen fuel cells and electric batteries, which can be used for primary propulsion.
In the report, ‘Towards Zero’, Thetius’ analysis used 50,000 hours of operating data from eight inland diesel pushboats (workboats) in the USA to develop a cumulative load profile for comparison, which was underpinned by science developed by the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change. The results of the modelling showed significant potential emissions (EPA and GHG) reduction versus conventional diesel engines for vessel operators who deploy methanol to hydrogen fuel cell power solutions. The conclusions indicated were:
- ‘Near Zero’ harmful emissions – achieving a 99% reduction of EPA-regulated emissions, including nitrogen oxides (NOx), particulate matter (PM), hydrocarbons (HC), and carbon monoxide (CO) based on using readily available grey methanol.
- Meaningful improvement on GHG emissions – up to 27% fewer GHG emissions when operating on readily available grey methanol.
- Towards Zero GHG – an 85% GHG emissions reduction is possible when using 100% green methanol, which is starting to become available in marine quantities. Substantial GHG emissions can still be made by using a blend of grey and green methanol.
e1 Marine’s solution provides clear advantages of future-proofing inland waterways, ports, and short sea vessels against current and anticipated increasingly robust GHG and local pollutant regulation. It also enables ocean-going vessel operators an option to utilize the onboard methanol to hydrogen generator technology while in port amid more stringent port emissions rules.
Robert Schluter, Managing Director, e1 Marine, commented: “As the shipping industry faces a plethora of regulations that will continue to ratchet up in terms of levels of compliance, it is vital to take a holistic approach to plan for next-gen propulsion. For smaller vessel’s main propulsion and ocean-going vessels auxiliary engines, the Thetius findings – based on a large amount of operating data, enabling a reasonable degree of accuracy - underline the capacity of e1 Marine’s methanol to hydrogen generator technology to almost eradicate local pollutant concerns and offer a clear pathway to 2030 and 2050 GHG emission compliance.
“Renewable alternatives, such as hydrogen, are gaining traction. However, pure hydrogen faces challenges in transportation and storage, hindering its implementation for direct fuel usage. e1 Marine’s technology fosters sustainable and eco-friendly marine operations that negate these challenges.”
Nick Chubb, CEO, Thetius, added: “Our model suggests that the e1 Marine’s methanol to hydrogen generators potentially produce 10-27% fewer GHG emissions than conventional diesel ICEs operating on grey methanol. Moreover, a blend of green and grey methanol can achieve substantial reductions, with 85% GHG emissions reduction possible when using green methanol. Therefore, the initial results are promising and show the clear advantages methanol to hydrogen generator technology can bring.”
From 1 January 2030, a ship (being any containership and any passenger ship (over 5,000 GT) not otherwise exempted under the legislation) moored at berth for two hours or longer in an EU port shall be required to connect to an on-shore power supply (OPS) (or alternative, approved zero-emission technology).
In the United States, port emissions are managed by local authorities, with policies that vary from state to state. For example, in 2021, California’s State Office of Administrative Law tightened emissions regulations defined by the Control Measure for Ocean-Going Vessels at Berth, which includes limits on GHGs and adds shore power mandates.
Trinity House nominates new Deputy Master and Chief Executive Officer
Following the announcement by Captain Ian McNaught of his retirement in February 2024 as its Deputy Master, Trinity House is pleased to welcome Rear Admiral Iain Lower CB MA AFNI as Captain McNaught’s designated successor.
Rear Admiral Lower (pictured) joins London-headquartered Trinity House from the Commonwealth War Graves Commission following a successful career in the Royal Navy. Spanning 32 years, he commanded four warships from Patrol Vessels to Destroyers on operations across the globe, from the Falklands to the Arabian Gulf. Ashore he was Naval Assistant to the First Sea Lord, Head of the Africa Plans team at the UK’s Permanent Joint Headquarters and, on promotion to Commodore in 2016, the Chief of Defence Staff’s Liaison Officer to the Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff in The Pentagon – a fascinating and rewarding posting that straddled the change in US Administration.
More recently, on promotion to Rear Admiral, Iain became the Royal Navy’s Director of Strategy, Policy, and External Affairs. An executive member of the Navy Board, he was responsible for strategic planning, policy alignment, international liaison, reputation management and public affairs including relations across Whitehall, think-tanks, academia, and the maritime sector.
At the Commonwealth War Graves Commission, as the Director of Strategy, Communications & Commonwealth Affairs, he led the development and implementation of the new organisational strategy. Iain is also a trustee of The Seafarers’ Charity.
Holding an MA in Defence Studies from King’s College London, Iain is a Freeman of the City of London and was made a Companion of the Bath in Her Majesty The Queen’s Platinum Jubilee Birthday Honours List in June 2022.
Subject to meeting the requirements in Trinity House’s Royal Charter, Rear Admiral Lower will become the Deputy Master at a meeting of the Court on 13 February 2024; at the same time, he will assume the Chair of the Corporate Board and become Chief Executive Officer of the Lighthouse Board that oversees Trinity House’s role as a General Lighthouse Authority. Captain McNaught will remain a member of the Court of Trinity House as an Elder Brother.
Iain said, “It is a very great honour to be joining Trinity House as its new Deputy Master. I look forward to working alongside new colleagues at sea and ashore, in the General Lighthouse Authority and the charity, as together we build upon Captain McNaught’s legacy and take Trinity House into the future.”
Trinity House is a charity dedicated to safeguarding shipping and seafarers, providing education, support and welfare to the seafaring community with a statutory duty as a General Lighthouse Authority to deliver a reliable, efficient and cost-effective aids to navigation service for the benefit and safety of all mariners.
Shipping industry faces two alternative decarbonisation paths with hydrogen-based fuels and biofuels vying for prominence
Lloyd’s Register Maritime Decarbonisation Hub analysis shows that e-ammonia could emerge as the most highly adopted maritime fuel amongst hydrogen-based fuels, whilst liquefied bio-methane dominates amongst biofuels.
In view of the maritime sector's strengthened commitments to reduce GHG emissions to net-zero by 2050, the Lloyd’s Register (LR) Maritime Decarbonisation Hub’s ‘The Future of Maritime Fuels’ report presents a review of a wide range of fuel mix projections and has identified two alternative paths that will steer shipping’s course – hydrogen-based fuels scenarios and biofuels scenarios. The report analyses the dynamics of the energy supply system within these scenarios, accounting for the expected supply as well as demands from other sectors for these fuels.
In the hydrogen-based fuels scenarios, e-ammonia is projected to emerge as the most highly adopted maritime fuel in the long-term, with an average share of 35% of the shipping fuels market by 2050. Such adoption yields significant energy demands, which will potentially drive the shipping industry to be the largest user of ammonia worldwide. It is projected that blue and e-ammonia will capture between 20% to 60% of total shipping fuels by 2050, with total consumption by shipping increasing on average from 0.79 exajoules (EJ) in 2030 to 6.06 EJ in 2050.
In the biofuels scenarios, liquefied bio-methane is projected to capture on average 34% of total shipping fuels by 2050, with total consumption by shipping increasing from 0.5 EJ in 2030 to 4.58 EJ in 2050. However, the expected supply of bio-methane needed for shipping is projected to vary between 0.3 EJ to 2 EJ during the time period under review, which will fall short of demand. This demonstrates that production will be insufficient to supply the total shipping demand for bio-methane.
The report also finds that methanol is projected to have a lower market share of the shipping fuels market than ammonia and bio-methane, which runs counter to current trend of ordering dual-fuel methanol vessels in today’s shipping market. Combined bio- and e-methanol fuels are projected to capture on average a market share of 13.4% of total shipping fuels by 2050.
These fuel mix projections underscore the industry's pivotal role in driving alternative fuel adoption while grappling with unique challenges in balancing demand, supply, and investment in alternative fuel pathways.
Carlo Raucci, Decarbonisation Consultant, LR Maritime Decarbonisation Hub, commented: “Our scrutiny of fuel mix projections shows that investors and shipowners will face the dilemma of choosing from different alternative fuel pathways. It is uncertain if one category of fuel will dominate the maritime fuel mix in the short and long-term, and investors face risks, such as stranded assets, which have limited the investment readiness level of low to zero-carbon fuels.
“Therefore, first movers’ initiatives such as green shipping corridors, will be pivotal in reducing the uncertainty by scoping out multi-sector fuel supply projections that could potentially help to aggregate demand and lower risks.”
Charles Haskell, Director, LR Maritime Decarbonisation Hub, said: “For meaningful progress, stakeholders across the maritime supply chain need to take on leadership in shaping alternative multi-fuel strategies and catalyse investment cases through strategic partnerships and collaborations. The uncertain dominance of a single fuel category underscores the importance of exploring the potential future interaction of the shipping industry with the broader energy demand system.”
Following the analysis of different fuel mix projections, the report identifies avenues for further exploration, such as deeper examination of fuel supply dynamics and their integration with existing fleet models, as well as cross-sector collaboration to enrich the industry’s understanding of shipping’s multifaceted fuel transition as it navigates towards greener horizons.
New Stolt Tankers behavioural change project ‘nudges’ crew to reduce emissions
Behavioural change startup Signol has launched a first-of-its kind project with Stolt Tankers to further reduce shipping emissions by using IoT data to help seafarers understand the impact of their actions on overall fuel consumption and CO2emissions and motivate them to adopt new behaviours.
By combining sensor data with behavioural change techniques, Stolt Tankers is pioneering a human-centred, tech-enabled approach to improving fuel efficiency and reduce shipping’s environmental impact.
The six-month pilot project will run on seven vessels, using Signol’s data-led service to engage seafarers and motivate them to reduce fuel consumption.
Five of the vessels use continuous monitoring (IoT) data through sensors connected directly into the ship’s power management and automation systems, providing a comprehensive and real-time view of what the crew experiences onboard.
Monitoring data will be used to create fair, achievable behavioural goals linked to three actions carried out on the ships: main and auxiliary engine performance and trim optimisation.
By using real-time IoT data as opposed to static snapshots of a ship’s status (e.g. noon reports), Stolt Tankers and Signol can enable crew and shoreside teams to make more proactive and immediate decisions, leading to improved operational efficiency, reduced fuel consumption, and enhanced safety.
IoT data includes a wider range of data points than noon reports and so provides better insights on the factors affecting whether or not crew members can implement emissions-reducing behaviours.
This depth of insights will help seafarers understand the impact of their actions on overall fuel consumption and CO2 emissions, and provide tools that the Stolt Tankers management team can use to encourage and highlight their crew's sustainability efforts.
Harriet Johnson, Head of Maritime at Signol says: “Seafarers are frequently making high-consequence decisions with multiple priorities to consider. Their role needs to be recognised, and the complexities involved in each of these decisions must not only be respected but also aided in a sustainable and positive manner.”
Stolt Tankers’ partnership with Signol supports its continuous improvement programme and sustainability ambition to become a carbon-neutral business by 2050.
Maren Schroeder, Managing Director of Stolt Tankers, says: “For every goal achieved through the system we commit to planting three mangrove saplings at the Stolt Tankers Mangrove Forest in the JBLFMU Ecological Park, the Philippines. Not only will this initiative help us to reach our sustainability ambitions, but it also helps to protect the local ecosystem close to where many of our crews call home.”
Signol's proven track record consistently shows fuel savings exceeding 5% in the maritime sector, delivering a return on investment in the months after launch without requiring additional capital investment. This model aligns with the needs of shipping companies' fleet performance and fuel managers who are looking for an effective solution that delivers data-driven insights, measurable results, and a good return on investment.
Maritime surveillance system SEAGULL now available in the UK market
BrainCreators, an innovative leader in AI and digital inspection solutions, is excited to announce the availability of its maritime surveillance system, SEAGULL, for use in the United Kingdom. SEAGULL automates vessel monitoring for ports, harbors, coasts, bridges, locks, and waterways. To mark this expansion, BrainCreators is part of the Dutch Trade Mission at London International Shipping Week.
In January 2023, BrainCreators proudly introduced SEAGULL in the Netherlands, an advanced SaaS solution specifically designed for continuous monitoring of ports, harbors, coasts, bridges, locks and waterways. Since its launch, SEAGULL has been successfully rolled-out by its launching customer, Scheveningen Harbour, and is currently being implemented at various other ports and municipalities.
The expansion of SEAGULL to the United Kingdom is a logical step for BrainCreators. The UK experiences significantly higher maritime traffic due to its geographical positioning as an island nation and its prominent role in international trade and shipping. As a result, effectively monitoring all maritime traffic is a complex challenge and effective digital maritime surveillance and monitoring solutions, such as SEAGULL, can therefore play a crucial role in ensuring the safety and efficiency of shipping activities.
SEAGULL's capabilities are diverse: it adeptly distinguishes among various ship types, gauges the speed of passing vessels, and meticulously logs entry and exit times. An automatic logbook captures all developments, facilitating comprehensive evaluations and analyses. Via an intuitive and user-friendly dashboard, SEAGULL's technology provides operators with comprehensive insights into maritime activities, encompassing vessel types, dates, times, directions, and speeds. Moreover, the system proactively notifies operators when vessels exceed speed limits or traverse during nighttime hours, thereby augmenting maritime safety.
A notable feature is that SEAGULL also identifies non-AIS (Automatic Identification System) vessel traffic such as ships, boats or other vehicles on the water on which no AIS transponders are installed. These vessels are not visible on AIS tracking systems, which can potentially pose problems in managing maritime traffic and ensuring safe navigation, especially in areas of heavy shipping or complex waterways. In this way, users can better identify trends, distinguish unconventional ship manoeuvres and take appropriate measures to increase efficiency and safety in maritime traffic.
In particular, SEAGULL's design strictly adheres to relevant privacy laws and guidelines. The data it collects is used solely for monitoring and securing port operations, with strict protocols to prevent unauthorized access and misuse.
Jasper Wognum, CEO and co-founder at BrainCreators, says: "The expansion of SEAGULL into the UK marks a crucial step in our commitment to improve maritime surveillance and security worldwide. The UK's vibrant maritime ecosystem, shaped by its island status and robust trading operations, demands advanced solutions like SEAGULL to seamlessly monitor and optimize vessel movements. By combining advanced technology with rigorous data analytics, we aim to make navigable waters safer, more efficient and sustainable for all parties involved."
Maritime UK urges major investment for country to become a global leader in decarbonisation
Maritime UK, the collective voice for the UK’s maritime industries, has used the start of London International Shipping Week to highlight the need for £2 billion private and public sector investment per year to deliver its target to decarbonise by 2050, and further to support an ambition to become a global leader in decarbonisation.
Securing this level of funding would help the industry decarbonise by developing green fuels, port infrastructure and new types of technology, enabling an overall reduction in carbon emissions. To successfully meet the challenges ahead and achieve these goals, collaboration between Government and industry is essential.
Chris Shirling-Rooke, CEO Maritime UK, said: “If we are going to decarbonise, we are going to have to work with government and government is going to have to work with industry. This is an incredible opportunity for collaboration. In the UK we have the expertise and ability to export new technology to the world.
“We can build, and do build, some of the most advanced vessels in the world, so it’s not beyond the wit of man that we can dig into this and create more. It was in our lifeblood as a nation, and it can be again with the next generation of youngsters inspiring the industry.”
London International Shipping Week (LISW23), which runs from September 11, is expected to provide a showcase for green shipping, including a demonstration by a new zero-emission ‘flying’ boat built in Belfast and developed by UK company Artemis (pictured).
Chris Shirling-Rooke, adds: “I am beyond optimistic about the future of our sector. So often we see decarbonisation as a real problem – and it is a real challenge. We are going to have to change.
“However, it’s also a real opportunity. We have the natural resources, we have the technology, we still have in maritime a world-leading industry, so it makes quite a strong argument to Government and industry to continue to support the journey and help us unlock its full potential.”
Don’t be reactive: complacency warning over skills and recruitment at ISSS
The shipping industry cannot afford to be complacent when it comes to skills, recruitment and retention of seafarers – this was the warning from speakers at the International Shipowning and Shipmanagement Summit (ISSS) on the opening day of London International Shipping Week.
The ISSS webinar, organised by SMI, focused on ‘The 4 Pillars of Successful Ship Operation’ – skills, digitalisation, compliance and markets – but skills was the topic that dominated the discussions.
“We can’t afford to be complacent,” said Heidi Heseltine, Founder of the Diversity Study Group. “One of the key things is, in shipping, when it comes to people, quite often there is complacency. We historically are not always the most forward thinking. Some organisations are really progressive and leading the way and achieving great things, but that is not always the majority.”
The industry knows it needs new skills and needs to bring new people, mindsets and skills into the industry, but that should not be at the expense of those who are already in the industry, warned Heseltine. “It is [about] integrating the people we do have with the people coming in. How do we blend a huge amount of shipping knowledge and experience, which is vital to what we do, and make that work in harmony with the new skills and talents that are coming in and that we need to attract?
“We don’t want to attract them in and have the wrong environment or culture and then have them leave – that would be even more disruptive. Also, what skills and experience do we need? Are we ready for it? Do companies know, are they thinking ahead? In my experience, hiring is quite reactive; people want someone they want to start yesterday. But you can’t afford to be reactive; you need to think ahead.”
Shipping talks a lot about the need to attract more seafarers – “but why aren’t we working harder to retain what we have got? I don’t want to hold back anyone coming into shipping, but it is 98% male dominated and we need to consider the environment on board for them, too. We have to take a pragmatic approach based on the reality of our situation. Why not upskill – not just in hard skills but also soft skills. That’s where we are seeing some really good progress. Sometimes decarbonisation and new technology is almost a red herring when it comes to some of the core challenges [relating to people].”
This point was echoed by Raal Harris, Chief Creative Officer of Ocean Technologies Group, who emphasised “not leaving people behind”.
“We have a workforce out there and, in some cases, age profiles are going up. People like me talk about millennials and Gen Z, but older people are still there. We have to think about how to work with people who don’t have the skills to take care of their own learning. How do we make sure we upskill people and take them on the journey?”
People are shipping’s most important asset, said René Kofod-Olsen, CEO of V.Group.
“Our industry is nothing without having the right people, both on our fantastic vessels and on shore. We will as an industry find it more difficult to continue attracting the right talent.”
He recalled warning some years ago that the challenge would be a brain drain from shipping as other industries became more attractive. “It is incumbent on us to deliver attractive career/working conditions,” he said – and he also emphasised the need to create seafaring careers so that people know they move on to work for a shipmanager or owner, oil major or another related sector.
Seafarers now ‘feel seen’ and they want to be treated in the same way as staff ashore, said Mark O’Neil, President of Columbia Group and President of InterManager.
“We really have to look at our seafarers from the HR point of view and give them the self-same benefits as our staff ashore.”
ABS Issues AIP for Hanwha Ocean’s industry-first, zero-carbon gas carrier
ABS has issued an approval in principle (AIP) to Hanwha Ocean for its design of a liquified natural gas (LNG) carrier equipped with an ammonia-fuelled gas turbine.
ABS also issued an AIP to Hanwha Power Systems for its supercritical carbon dioxide (sCO2) power system at last week’s Gastech event in Singapore. Efficiency improvements are reported as a result of using sCO2 as a working fluid in the turbine.
The 174,000 cbm LNG vessel would be the world’s first carbon emission free LNG carrier. The LNG carrier can use ammonia and natural gas separately or simultaneously as fuel. If only ammonia is used as fuel, no carbon gas is emitted.
The design, which is smaller than a diesel engine, also incorporates Hanwha Power Systems’ exhaust gas waste heat recovery system (sCO2 Power System). Hanwha Ocean also says the system meets the nitrogen oxide (NOx) requirement without selective catalytic reduction (SCR) regardless of fuel and has significantly reduced methane slip.
“With a global focus on decarbonisation, this vessel design represents a big step forward in the shipping industry’s ambitions for zero-carbon cargo transport,” said Panos Koutsourakis, ABS Vice President, Global Sustainability. “ABS is proud to be able to support it and use our deep decarbonization expertise to advance a more sustainable industry.”
A spokesperson from Hanwha Ocean said: “Carbon neutrality is a ‘challenge to be overcome’ and an ‘opportunity to leap’ for shipyards. With this AIP, we will lead the competition for carbon-free ships.”
Separately, ABS has joined a pioneering joint industry project (JIP) to collaborate on the development of a detailed design of a 40K cbm liquified carbon dioxide (LCO2) carrier that meets Class and statutory requirements with Ecolog Services Ltd. (ECOLOG), Hanwha Ocean Co., Ltd. and Babcock International Liquid Gas Equipment (LGE).
The classification society also awarded AIPs at Gastech to HD Hyundai Heavy Industries (HHI) and HD Korea Shipbuilding & Offshore Engineering (KSOE) for two new solutions that support autonomous navigation and address a more sustainable maritime industry, as well as to HD Korea Shipbuilding & Offshore Engineering (KSOE) and HD Hyundai Heavy Industries (HHI) for an ammonia reductant supply system for selective catalytic reduction (SCR) in ammonia-fuelled ships.
KR approves LCO2 cargo tank design developed by Hyundai Mipo and HD KSOE
Korean Register (KR) has granted an Approval In Principle (AIP) for a liquefied carbon dioxide (LCO2) cargo tank design, developed by Hyundai Mipo Dockyard (HMD) and HD Korea Shipbuilding & Offshore Engineering (HD KSOE), presented during Gastech held in Singapore last week.
This AIP is the outcome of a successful collaborative joint project involving KR, HMD and HD KSOE. HMD designed the cargo tank, HD KSOE conducted an engineering critical assessment (ECA), and KR ensured the design’s suitability by reviewing classification rules and international regulations.
The development of the LCO2 cargo tank underscores the commitment of these three companies to reduce carbon emissions, aligning with the global push for carbon neutrality and a sustainable future. Notably, the demand for LCO2 carriers is projected to rise, as carbon capture, utilization, and storage (CCUS) technologies are poised to play a pivotal role in reducing global carbon dioxide emissions.
To liquefy carbon dioxide for efficient mass transportation, it is essential to maintain low temperatures and high pressures. Achieving economical transportation hinges on considering the triple point of carbon dioxide, where the temperature and pressure allow the three phases of gas, liquid, and solid to coexist in equilibrium. Special attention must be devoted to preventing carbon dioxide from undergoing phase changes during operation. Consequently, designing cargo tanks necessitates advanced technology and expertise.
The newly developed LCO2 cargo tank design incorporates an independent IMO Type-C tank to maintain the triple point of carbon dioxide. The structural safety of the cargo tank was further verified by applying the ECA evaluation technique. Moreover, its design enables the loading of a larger cargo capacity compared to existing vessels of similar size, promising even more cost-effective operations.
KIM Yeontae, Executive Vice President of KR’s Technical Division, commented: “Through this AIP, we have laid an important foundation for commercializing the ECA evaluation method and the construction technology for LCO2 cargo tanks. KR will work to support the development of CCUS-related technology as well as other decarbonization response technologies.”
Representatives of HMD and HD KSOE said: “The newly developed LCO2 cargo tank is proof of our efforts to reduce carbon emissions at this time of transition towards decarbonization, and the essence of our eco-friendly technology and expertise. We will continue to develop innovative technologies for a sustainable future.”
West P&I Club launches inaugural ESG & Sustainability Report
West P&I Club has launched its inaugural ESG & Sustainability Report, revealing how the marine insurance leader supports green shipping and healthy oceans. Additionally, the report, released during London International Shipping Week 2023 (LISW23), demonstrates the Club’s commitment to seafarer wellbeing and investing in talent.
Environmental regulatory compliance for an industry under pressure to reduce its carbon footprint and the expectation from financial institutes that shipping companies make ESG a core strategic objective also features. This issue is increasingly important to maritime stakeholders, according to the report, which was launched at West’s LISW23 event, ‘No ocean. No shipping’, hosted in association with the Club’s charity partner, the National Oceanography Centre.
West’s report explains the changing nature of shipping, with cargo carrying capacity doubling since 2005 in an industry that accounts for up to 90% of global trade. This creates three challenges for the Club’s Members: people and safety, environmental impact, and technology / digitalisation. The Club’s first ESG and sustainability report outlines the progress made by West, its future aims and how it plans to help Members on this journey.
The report also focuses on West’s ESG-related initiatives, showing how in recent years it has committed to the United Nations’ Sustainability Development Goals (UN SDGs). Actions include supporting seafarers’ physical and mental wellbeing, accelerating gender diversity and introducing training programmes for West employees. Moreover, the Club has moved to more sustainable premises to help combat climate change, provided Members training on new fuels and technologies to support their decarbonisation transition, and advised them on how to protect the marine environment.
Other actions taken by West include creating a dedicated ESG Department and ESG Committee exclusively made up of staff; establishing its operational carbon footprint by commissioning carbon emissions reports on all offices; introducing the West Mentoring Programme; and taking a zero-tolerance stance to greenwashing. The Club contributes to ESG investment funds, promotes ethical business practices among its workforce and is a member of the Maritime Anti-Corruption Network.
Commenting on West’s inaugural ESG report, Tom Bowsher, Group CEO (pictured), said: “The maritime industry is going through a period of great transformational change and it is crucial that during these times of uncertainty and increased demands, we continue to support our Members in all areas of their business to confidently navigate through the challenges and opportunities this presents. As part of the various initiatives the Club has underway, I am delighted to present our first ESG & Sustainability Report. Every business has a crucial role to play in the transition towards a sustainable future and West’s strategy places emphasis on the environment, social responsibility, legal integrity and a commitment to maritime resilience.”
Gina Panayiotou, ESG Manager at West P&I, added: “The increasing number of ESG-related regulations and requirements in shipping is a reflection of the emphasis that clients, investors and other stakeholders now place on the maritime sustainability agenda. Shipping is paramount for a sustainable world and we have a duty to sustain it sustainably. At West, we aim to proactively guide and support Members on this journey and our first ESG and sustainability report aims to highlight how ESG and sustainability is not only a moral case, but also a powerful business one.”
Shipping leaders collaborate in landmark methane abatement technology trial
Major maritime industry players have come together in a collaborative effort to implement Daphne Technology's groundbreaking SlipPureTMmethane abatement solution onto the Angelicoussis Group’s LNG carrier Maran Gas Chios, announced at last week’s Gastech event in Singapore (pictured).
Key players within the maritime industry, including Lloyd's Register (LR) as the independent auditor, Maran Gas Maritime Inc. as the ship operator, Wärtsilä as the engine provider, Shell International Trading and Shipping Company Limited (Shell) in the role of charterer of the vessel and project co-ordinator, and DNV providing the relevant class approvals for the retrofit, have embarked on this joint endeavour to reduce methane emissions.
Daphne Technology's SlipPure™ solution, which was last year awarded approval in principle from LR and DNV, is an after-treatment system that reduces methane emissions of LNG-fuelled engines, so-called methane slip. Methane slip results in increased greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions and ground-level ozone.
Methane slip has been significantly reduced in modern engines thanks to continuous development of combustion technologies but remains a challenge in LNG-powered vessels using older engine technologies. Daphne's SlipPure™ technology allows for the further abatement of methane in exhaust gas to negligible[1]levels and is complementary to Wärtsilä technologies and developments.
This trial, which will see Daphne Technology's system retrofitted to one of the Wärtsilä 34DF auxiliary engines on board the LNG carrier Maran Gas Chios, will facilitate the technical assessment and system feasibility analysis on SlipPure™ technology, supporting maritime stakeholders involved in the gas sector to de-risk their assets. For the SlipPure™ solution, HAZID and HAZOP workshops have been completed by LR as part of LR’s Risk-Based Certification process.
Daphne Technology's PureMetrics™ solution will also be installed onboard the Maran Gas Chios throughout the trial period, and LR will handle the dissemination of the data as an independent third-party verifier. PureMetrics™ is an advanced system that directly measures and reports real-time GHG emissions, eliminating the reliance on fuel consumption estimates and ensuring compliance with European Union Monitoring, Reporting and Verification (EU MRV) and International Maritime Organisation Data Collection System (IMO DCS ) regulations. PureMetrics™ was awarded approval in principle from LR in June 2023 at Nor-Shipping.
Panos Mitrou, Global Gas Segment Director, Lloyd’s Register, said: "LR is pleased to work alongside industry leaders on this joint development project as the maritime industry raises critical challenges in addressing methane emissions from shipping. LR's AiP has enabled this technology to proceed to a milestone pilot application, and the learnings from this trial will support gas industry partners in de-risking their gas assets."
Andreas Spertos, Technical Director at Maran Gas Maritime Inc., said: “Maran Gas sees LNG as a readily available and mature fuel which offers substantial GHG reduction compared to the standard fuels used in shipping. At the same time, we are aware that the reduction of methane slip from dual-fuel marine engines to levels that are technically achievable is a key aim for the sustainability of LNG as fuel. Operating a very large fleet of LNG Carriers of different propulsion technologies, Maran Gas believes that addressing methane slip will help release all the potential of LNG as a low GHG emissions fuel.
Joining this project together with Shell, LR, Daphne and Wartsila and deciding to install the Daphne SlipPureTM methane abatement solution on one of our ships shows our commitment to work jointly with high-profile partners towards exploring solutions to handle the methane slip. We look forward to seeing the results of the SlipPureTM trial installed onboard our ship.”
LISW23: The Swedish Club announces new expanded London office
Thomas Nordberg, Managing Director of The Swedish Club, this week announced the opening of new, expanded London offices. He was speaking at London International Shipping Week (LISW), where the Club hosted an evening reception for members, brokers and business partners.
“As the shipping world focuses on London, the timing of this move could not be bettered,” said Mr Nordberg (pictured). “A key focus for 2023 has been the strengthening of our regional offerings, and I am pleased to say that our development plans for the growing London office are well in hand.
“London is an important business centre boasting a deep pool of underwriters, brokers, and legal experts, with a reputation for fostering innovation and setting industry standards. We are developing a full-service office to enable us to build even stronger relationships with our existing clients and forge new partnerships within this vibrant business community. Our new, larger premises will accommodate this expansion."
Guests were warmly welcomed by Lars Nilsson, who established the London office in 2015, and will now be taking up a head office role as senior advisor to Thomas Nordberg. In his opening address Mr Nordberg thanked Lars for his commitment to the Club and for the firm foundations that he has set in place for the Club’s development in the London market.
The evening was hosted by Tord Nilsson who will be taking up the reins as head of Team UK later this year. He said: “It is a privilege to be at the heart of the insurance industry, where change happens on a daily basis. We have had a presence in London for eight years and are now building on that commitment and working towards delivering underwriting and claims services to owners and brokers from the new location.”
The Swedish Club’s LISW event was held at Fishmongers’ Hall where the Club welcomed more than 150 guests to an evening of good food and entertainment. It provided an opportunity for both Thomas and Tord to share their plans for the future and to engage with the London shipping community.
The Swedish Club continues to be in the heart of the City and its new offices can be found located opposite Lloyd’s of London and Leadenhall Market, at 37-39 Lime Street, London, EC3M 7AY.
New study highlights Freeport East‘s potential for driving UK transport decarbonisation and green corridors
A new study published this week suggests that Freeport East could become a new UK centre for transport decarbonisation. The study outlines how Freeport East can facilitate the international partnerships and investment necessary for the Green Hydrogen Hub to support maritime and wider transport sectors.
Freeport East includes the Port of Felixstowe, the UK’s biggest container port and the main destination for container traffic to and from Europe and the Far East – these routes are central to many of the leading green corridor* initiatives, which are seen as key to achieving ambitious maritime decarbonisation objectives.
While the shipping sector is expected to grow by 30-70% by 2050, 60% of new vessel orders in 2022 were for multi-fuel vessels, demonstrating that the transition to clean fuels is already moving at pace. By positioning Freeport East and the wider region into the rapidly growing clean fuels market, it could support many hundreds of skilled jobs and bring significant economic benefits to the local area.
The findings build on research earlier this year that indicated a potential demand for 500MW of hydrogen by 2030 in the Freeport East area. Both reports support the development of the Freeport East Green Hydrogen Hub – aiming to harness abundant local renewable energy to produce green hydrogen for future transport uses.
Freeport East will share findings of the report today at London’s International Shipping Week, which attracts global investors in the maritime sector. It will also be presented at the World Hydrogen Congress in Rotterdam in October.
Key findings from the report include:
- Over 4000 vessels pass through Freeport East each year, which creates a potential need for over 180 tonnes of hydrogen per day for green maritime fuels, or 450MW of new electrolyser capacity
- Freeport East has significant container port capacity, which could have a critical role to play in the development of hydrogen-enabled green shipping corridors through partnering with international ports and shipping lines and brokering new global partnerships
- Investment in new local hydrogen refuelling infrastructure would help reduce carbon emissions from A14 traffic flows, benefiting communities in Freeport East, Cambridge, and other parts of the UK
- New hydrogen investment in the logistics sector could be triggered by the strategic opportunities generated by the existing fuel stations and newer development sites in Felixstowe and along the A14
Steve Beel, Chief Executive of Freeport East, said: “This latest report confirms our goal for Freeport East to act as a hub for transport decarbonisation, reducing emissions both on land and at sea. It highlights opportunities to build new partnerships that will support maritime decarbonisation on a global level, while also providing local economic and employment opportunities within the Freeport East area.
“We look forward to working with a range of industry partners to take these opportunities forward, as well as working with the UK Government to ensure the right policy and subsidy support mechanisms are in place to deliver this critical piece of decarbonisation and our net zero ambitions.”
Dr Jehan Kanga of Rux Energy, an Australian company specialising in advanced materials development for hydrogen storage, is already working closely with Freeport East. Dr Kanga comments: “We welcome the emphasis on international collaboration which this report highlights in relation to developing a cleaner maritime fuels sector, resonating with a number of bilateral clean technology agreements between the UK, Singapore, Australia and other trading partners.
“Rux has already started building links from Australia into the UK, anchored from Freeport East. We are passionate about the need for global coordination to deliver an acceleration of the innovation needed for a cleaner maritime and transportation sector. Freeport East can act as a central player in bringing these international collaborations together and ensuring the UK and its trading partners benefit fully from the shared value generated from scale investment in maritime energy transition.”
One major green hydrogen supply project, led by ScottishPower and Hutchison Ports, is already under development in Felixstowe and is encouraging investment.
Mark Griffin, Head of Hydrogen Market Development at ScottishPower, said: “We welcome the findings of this report, which outline the need to decarbonise hard-to-electrify sectors like heavy transport and industrial processes. We’re working with Hutchison Ports to explore the potential of green hydrogen to support the ambition to decarbonise the area in and around Felixstowe – the UK’s largest container terminal.”
Women’s contributions to maritime history celebrated with the SHE_SEES exhibition at LISW
A landmark London exhibition that forms part of London International Shipping Week is shining a spotlight on women’s contributions to maritime history.
The SHE_SEES exhibition marks the first year of the thought-provoking ‘Rewriting Women into Maritime’ initiative, spearheaded by UK-based global safety and education charity Lloyd’s Register Foundation in partnership with Lloyd’s Register.
The initiative taps into archive materials from across the UK and Ireland to uncover the extensive history of trailblazing female voices in the maritime industry and aims to change the tide on diversity.
More than just looking into the past, the exhibition highlights a persistent gender imbalance. Recent research from the IMO, found that women currently only account for just 29% of the overall industry workforce – a figure that drops to 2% when it comes to female seafarers within the crewing workforce.
Blending striking visuals, art and storytelling, the SHE_SEES exhibition, hosted at the headquarters of the IMO, features portraits of inspiring women working in the maritime industry today – from maritime law specialists to ship surveyors. To impactfully bring their stories to life, Lloyd’s Register has worked with portrait photographer and visual artist Emilie Sandy in collaboration with weaver and artist Erna Janine.
To celebrate the launch, Lloyd’s Register, in association with London International Shipping Week, is also welcoming Kitack Lim, Secretary General of the IMO for a keynote speech.
Louise Sanger, Head of Research, Interpretation & Engagement – Heritage & Education Centre at Lloyd’s Register Foundation said: “We’re thrilled to be bringing our Rewriting Women into Maritime project to life and showcasing our findings with our SHE_SEES exhibition.
“Over the past year, we, along with our partners, have completed extensive research behind the scenes, unearthing archives from across the UK and working with key players in the industry. While there remain things to uncover, one thing is clear – women’s contributions to maritime throughout history have been overlooked for too long, and it’s time to set the record straight.
“Representation matters; how can we inspire young women and girls to consider a career in the maritime industry otherwise? With this exhibition, we hope to bring to life the amazing stories of women within the industry and be a catalyst for diversity, which remains a challenge today.”
The Rewriting Women into Maritime project is set to expand internationally next year. To find out more, please visit: hec.lrfoundation.org.uk/whats-on/rewriting-women-into-maritime-history
Ukraine Maritime package announcement at LISW
The UK Minister for Aviation, Maritime and Security, Baroness Vere (pictured), will be giving a speech at the Maritime Careers and Opportunities event during London International Shipping Week on Wednesday 13th September. She will announce the implementation partners for the maritime skills package for Ukrainian seafarers, announced at the Ukraine Recovery Conference (URC) 23.
Maritime cadetships will be supported via a grant of £1.5M to sponsor up to 20 Ukrainian Officer cadets to train in the UK. The Department for Transport is partnering with Trinity House, who are co-hosts of the session, to manage the process of enrolment and training, with the aim of delivering it via two cohorts, starting in January 2024.
The Department has also contracted the services of KILO, a UK business, to provide the tools for virtual maritime training for Ukrainian individuals, enabling them to continue their learning remotely from anywhere in the world. KILO has previously been providing this pro bono to a university in Ukraine, and this support will help them to scale this work.
The Baroness will later be given a tour of Trinity House’s Nautical Institute, where the event is taking place, alongside the Ukrainian Ambassador.
The current conflict has heavily impacted the maritime transport sector including full or partial closure of its ports. Our collaboration with UK businesses and charities, such as Trinity House and KILO, to deliver training will ensure a strong seafaring sector for Ukraine in the face of the impact of war.
Seafarers’ charities face problems accessing ships in port
Seafarers’ charities are being barred from boarding ships in some ports around the world and the problem is getting worse, delegates at the Seafarers’ Welfare Conference during London International Shipping Week heard.
During panel discussions at “The S in ESG” conference held in Fishmongers’ Hall, Rev Canon Andrew Wright, Secretary General of the Mission to Seafarers, said: “We go on board and see people in [seafarer] centres in order to promote and take forward the welfare of seafarers. For us to be able to get to the ships is essential and in many ports of the world we are really beginning to have problems there.
“For example, in Costa Rica they say you can only come on board if you have the individual permission of the shipping company – and on an every-time basis. It is almost impossible to extract that.”
Shipping industry support is essential for charities to do their work, said Wright. “Port access is becoming a really critical issue, to be able to do what we want to do for the seafarers.”
Alex Walster, Head of ESG at Navigator Gas, said: “We have to start closing the loop between the ship owners and the charities. When we think about the things that the charities do, especially ship visitors and port chaplains, they have the trust of the seafarers.”
He suggested that the charities were often better placed to know what was going on onboard, or what the atmosphere was, and could ‘bring this back to the owner’.
Simon Grainge, CEO of ISWAN, said the biggest challenge is the fact that charities and the industry are ‘very different beasts’ – and how well do they understand each other? “The biggest challenge is understanding each other’s perspective, and for the industry to see the charities as valued partners.”
Seafarers often confide in a charity representative, telling them things they might never tell their employers, colleagues or even families, said Grainge. “We want to share that information with the industry, so that the industry can make the changes they need to make. But the industry is very complex. Who do we speak to most effectively? Who is going to listen to us?”
He highlighted the fact that charities might be delivering to shipping companies ‘difficult messages, that you are doing something wrong’, while still asking the same companies for funding. “I would say the industry must make friends with the charities – find out what we do.”
There was a particularly challenging question from the audience to the panel: “Do you think that having these charities in maritime makes it easy for shipping companies not to do things themselves?”
Charities should not be picking up the slack for rogue operators, said Grainge. “However, there are still many seafarers around the world who do get into crisis, and it isn’t necessarily to do with their work. Every charity should be working towards a time when they are not needed but it isn’t going to be in the next couple of years, that’s for certain.”
Wright said: “It is our experience that through the pandemic, the wellbeing issue went right to the top of the agenda, with board rooms discussing it. We have found that wellbeing is very high on the list of many people in shipping – and that is very welcome. It isn’t that the shipping industry doesn’t care – many have brought charities into discussions, and that is also very welcome.”
DNV: the ‘decisive decade’ for decarbonisation
This is the ‘decisive decade’ for shipping, said Knut Ørbeck-Nilssen, DNV’s Chief Executive Officer, Maritime, as he discussed the findings of the classification society’s latest ‘Maritime Forecast to 2050’ report yesterday at London International Shipping Week.
“The clock is ticking – we all know that,” he said. The drive for decarbonisation has been accelerated by the IMO’s revised GHG strategy, he said. “The ambition level for 2030 (to reduce GHG emissions from international shipping by at least 20%) might not seem that ambitious but I can assure you, it is very ambitious. I would say it is bordering on the unrealistic. We all know we need to decarbonise. The question is, how can we do that with such a limited time ahead of us to 2030?”
DNV’s analysis of alternative fuel supplies concluded that many of the necessary investment decisions have not been made yet, he said. “Shipping will need 20-40% of the total global supply of green fuels and that is quite a daunting task – and many of those producers are not even thinking about providing the fuels to shipping.”
The industry really needs to think ‘beyond fuels’, he said. Slow steaming makes sense, “but we really need to take energy efficiency to the next level.”
Net Zero by 2050 is ‘a little bit more open terrain’, said Ørbeck-Nilssen. “We have more time. There could be some more technologies.”
DNV’s report considered two technologies that could be transformative – carbon capture and storage onboard, and nuclear propulsion, described by the CEO as “obviously with many advantages when it comes to reducing emissions, but also significant hurdles when it comes to public opinion”.
Ørbeck-Nilssen said shipping had managed great challenges before, and he urged more collaboration in the journey to decarbonisation. “Collaboration doesn’t only mean within the shipping industry but it also means across sectors, with those that produce the energy and those that distribute the energy and not least with the ports which will provide the energy to the vessels.”
Highlights from the 2023 Maritime Forecast to 2050 were presented by Eirik Ovrum, DNV’s Principal Consultant, Environment Advisory, and lead author of the report. In its recommendations, DNV said shipowners should: reduce energy consumption now; consider all decarbonisation options; focus on fuel flexibility; and consider long-term fuel strategy.
During a panel discussion around ‘How to shape Maritime’s energy future’, a finance warning emerged. Christoph Toepfer, CEO of Borealis Maritime, said: “We have seen a significant diversion of capital away from shipping. For a lot of investors that have to take into account Scope 3 emissions, they cannot invest into shipping because this would exceed their targets.”
He called for more, stronger green corridors, and said that to reduce carbon quickly, “we should tackle the big vessels first”. Jan Dieleman, President of Cargill Ocean Transportation and Chair of the Global Maritime Forum, said: “If we want to accelerate the transition, we have to make it as cheap as possible.”
Availability of fuel is key, along with a very efficient supply chain, he said. However, while the industry likes to talk about fuel supplies – “we also have to send the right demand signals”.
MSC plans takeover of Port of Hamburg terminal operator HHLA
The Free and Hanseatic City of Hamburg and MSC Mediterranean Shipping Company have entered into a binding Memorandum of Understanding with respect to a strategic partnership regarding Hamburger Hafen und Logistik Aktiengesellschaft (HHLA).
MSC intends to acquire all free-floating A-Shares of HHLA and announces the intention to launch a voluntary public takeover offer at EUR [16,75] per A-Share ([57]% premium to 30-day volume weighted average price). HHLA is to be operated as a strategic joint venture, with the City of Hamburg holding a stake of 50.1% and MSC ultimately holding a stake of 49.9%.
In the course of the partnership, MSC will substantially increase its container volume at HHLA terminals in Hamburg, beginning in 2025 and raising it to at least 1,000,000 TEU per year from 2031 onwards. In addition, MSC will establish its new German headquarters with several hundred employees in Hamburg. Furthermore, MSC and the City of Hamburg also agree to commit on a long-term investment plan to be developed in alignment with HHLA.
The aim of the partnership is to establish a strong and well-funded basis for the further development of HHLA and the entire Port of Hamburg, making it a central hub for MSC’s globally connected network of container services and logistics chains. MSC thereby acquires a strategic share in a leading European logistics company, with a network of container terminals in Hamburg, Odessa, Tallinn and Trieste, excellent hinterland connections, railway-company METRANS and well-connected intermodal hubs in Central and Eastern Europe.
MSC has been investing heavily in developing its portfolio of intermodal solutions, including rail which spans from Sines (Portugal) to Trieste (Italy), and has been working to shift more cargo from road to rail in line with its shoreside decarbonization aims.
The agreement would also see MSC expand its terminal portfolio. Through its subsidiary Terminal Investments Limited (TiL) MSC operates 70 terminals across the world, including terminals in Antwerp, Singapore, and Rotterdam. To further grow its global terminal footprint, MSC has also acquired AGL (Africa Global Logistics), a logistics provider with a strong presence on the African continent with intermodal solutions and 21 port concessions. In addition to its fleet of 760 vessels, MSC is currently implementing a robust fleet modernization plan and expects to take delivery of more than 90 newbuildings over the next three years, including the 24,000+ TEU Celestino Maresca class vessels.
Commenting on the signing of the agreement Soren Toft, CEO of MSC Mediterranean Shipping Company stated: “The City of Hamburg and MSC have had a close bond for decades. We are excited to build on this long-standing partnership today by integrating the City of Hamburg and Germany even closer into our global ocean freight network and diversified intermodal footprint across Europe.
“This deal not only expands MSC’s global reach, but also unlocks the trade potential for the City of Hamburg and Germany. As a family-owned company we are fully accountable to our employees, customers and partners. We employ a long-term view and this partnership is an exciting step for MSC to grow its long-term presence in Hamburg and Germany.”
Dr Peter Tschentscher, First Mayor of the Free and Hanseatic City of Hamburg: “The strategic partnership between the City of Hamburg and one of the world's leading shipping companies, MSC, is a milestone in the further development of our port. It reflects MSC's strong commitment to the Port of Hamburg, is in line with the Senate's strategic port policy goals and can give our entire maritime economy the boost it needs in difficult times.”
The partnership is stipulated for an indefinite time, with a termination possible after 40 years at the earliest. Both partners agree that this partnership is and should remain open to all other past and future partners of the Port of Hamburg, HHLA and its terminals.
As a next step MSC will draft the takeover offer document. The takeover offer document will be submitted within the next four weeks for approval by the Bundesanstalt für Finanzdienstleistungsaufsicht (BaFin) which will take approximately 10 working days. Immediately after the approval the offer document will be published (expected for the second half of October). During the following four-week offer period, that will be followed by a mandatory two-week period, investors can decide to accept the offer. The closing of the offer will be subject to regulatory approval, and approval by the Parliament of the Free and Hanseatic City of Hamburg.
New Seafarer Digital Literacy Initiative brings skills to commercial crews in Nigeria
The maritime industry is on a non-stop path toward digitalization, and the Seafarer Digital Literacy Initiative is helping ensure that African seafarers are equipped to thrive in the emerging digital world at sea. Founded by Fieldbase Services Ltd., and sponsored by KVH Industries, Inc., and Intelsat, SDLI is an innovative new training program based in Port Harcourt, Nigeria, that includes a mix of classroom training and ongoing onboard education that covers everything from basic computer skills, document sharing, and digital signatures to the use of satellite communication systems, electronic charts, remote service and support tools, and basics of cybersecurity.
“The shipping industry is undergoing a technological transformation,” explains Chinedu Abanobi, Managing Director of Fieldbase. “While the industry is actively embracing these technologies, it is essential not to overlook the importance of crew training and competencies in delivering the expected efficiencies these technologies help deliver. This is why Fieldbase and its sponsors have launched the digital literacy initiative.”
“KVH and our partner, Intelsat, are thrilled to support the Seafarer Digital Literacy Initiative,” says Chris Watson, KVH’s vice president of marketing and communications. “The commercial maritime industry relies upon seafarers around the globe, with African seafarers and ports playing a vital part. SDLI and the training team established by Fieldbase are leading the way in providing bridge crews with the basic digital literacy levels necessary to enable them to utilize digital tools and improve operations for their companies, support their crews, and aid with the safe operation of their vessels.”
The first trainees are now completing the program with a lengthy waiting list of officers and crew hoping to enroll. Based on the program’s success over the next year, it may expand from Port Harcourt to Lagos and other African ports.
“I’m going to recommend that all of my chief officers take this training,” commented a recent trainee and a Nemera Oil and Gas captain. “It was really good, very helpful.”
For more information about the Seafarer Digital Literacy Initiative, please visit https://seafarerstraining.fbase.co.uk.
Global Transport Solutions acquires Ship Spares Logistics
Global Transport Solutions (GTS), a logistics service provider specialized in supply chain solutions for the maritime industry through the brand Marinetrans, has acquired Ship Spares Logistics (SSL), formerly part of Burando Maritime Services.
SSL is a marine logistics specialist providing barge deliveries, warehouse consolidation and freight forwarding services. The combination of the two companies will elevate service offerings in marine spare parts logistics, creating a synergy that leverages the combined strengths, culture, and international network of both companies.
“With a shared vision and complementing strengths, this collaboration with SSL is a natural progression,” remarked John Burgstra, co-CEO at GTS. “Together, we are able to redefine service standards in marine spare parts logistics, offering an even more comprehensive and integrated service portfolio to our clients at Marinetrans that is unrivalled in the industry.
“The acquisition of SSL reinforces our last-mile service offering, giving our clients a wider range of options.”
The co-CEO of Burando Maritime Services, Andreas Drenthen, commented: “This transaction allows SSL to join forces with a long-standing partner, GTS, and offer its clients an international proposition. We believe this strategic move will unlock new potential and opportunities for both companies, and we are excited to see where this collaboration leads.”
Through technological innovation and service integration, SSL and GTS say they share the ambition to establish a disruptive service in the market, organizing their clients’ logistics from vendor to vessel.
Teqplay and Vopak collaborate on digital journey
The maritime supply chain is a critical part of global tradebut in itscurrent form is often considered old-fashioned and inefficient, leading to for instance significant demurrage costs which can be up to $150 billion per year, says Léon Gommans (pictured), CEO of Teqplay, promoter of maritime innovation through the use of data.
Lack of transparency and communication between stakeholders is one of the major challenges the industry faces, he continues. Even for those involved in the maritime supply chain process, there is still a lack of awareness of what is happening and the hidden costs that could incur throughout a voyage and port call.
“The lack of transparency and efficient communication among stakeholders prevents them from being proactive when it comes to disruptions and delays. This makes it difficult for charterers and port authorities to keep track of the big picture and increases the risk of demurrage.
“Outdated technology and processes also represent an obstacle toward optimizing maritime operations. Despite the rising importance of digital transformation, a significant part of the maritime world is still relying on outdated methods such as Excel sheets or paper documents.
“Compared to other industries and sectors, the maritime industry’s adoption of digitalization is happening later and slower. There is a common sentiment that there is no need to update the processes because things have always worked, and if it isn’t broken, why fix it?”
Gommans points out that the complexity of the supply chain is also one of the reasons why improvement can be challenging. Ship owners, charterers, agents, port authorities all have their own agenda and responsibilities which may overlap and interconnect. Every step in the chain affects the next one, and every party has influence over other stakeholders. “This means that decision makers need to have a comprehensive view of events if they want to ensure optimisation of operations. With how complex the processes can be, the risk of one delay causing more delays is high.“
All of which is why Teqplay is partnering with terminal operator Vopak in the sharing of real-time global supply chain data. Leveraging key data points related to vessel movements and other crucial assets, their innovative solutions empower accurate predictions, driving operational efficiency and ensuring unmatched customer service.
“Collaboration emerges as a linchpin of the maritime industry, and Teqplay recognizes that trust in data lies at the heart of successful cooperation.,” says Gommans. “Through API technologies and meticulous data handling practices, Vopak and Teqplay establish secure information exchanges, ensuring confidentiality and consent-driven information distribution. This trust in data fosters enhanced collaboration, leading to improved business models, streamlined invoicing processes, and seamless ownership transfers.
During trials in the port of Houston of the two companies’ innovative application that significantly improves supply chain visibility, he relates, customers unearthed savings of up to USD5million each, a testament to the game-changing potential of the project.
“Now, imagine the vast potential when scaled up for a customer with operations spanning 40 ports in various locations. The bottom line improvement is awe-inspiring, and Teqplay's agile approach plays a pivotal role in this success.”
ORBCOMM prepares to launch new dry container tracking device
Shipping is an ‘antiquated’ industry, but this does seem to be changing, said Christian Allred, Executive Vice President, Global Sales at IoT technology specialist ORBCOMM.
Discussing the forthcoming launch of ORBCOMM’s new solar-powered dry container tracking device, he told journalists that an agreement signed last year to supply Hapag-Lloyd with 600,000 purpose-built container trackers using its CT 100 tracking technology, to increase transparency and improve supply chain management, has sparked a lot of interest from other shipping lines.
About 500,000 container tracking devices have been delivered to Hapag-Lloyd to date, and 3,000 a day are being built to meet the line’s needs.
ORBCOMM will formally launch the new telematics solution in October. The solution provides end-to-end monitoring for dry containers to make operations more transparent, secure and profitable, said Allred. The devices will report data into ORBCOMM’s container platform, which provides a single, integrated view of all assets – dry, reefer, genset and chassis – in one platform. It is also possible to report data through APIs into customer platforms.
The tracking device is designed for large-scale deployments – costing about US$100 per unit, depending on volumes, each one can be installed in about one minute with no need for manual intervention after installation, says ORBCOMM.
The device was developed to provide location and visibility of the fleet, but there are huge opportunities to develop this, said Allred. “What we are anticipating is something that will tackle more use cases – for example, early fire detection, or identifying tampering, human trafficking or illicit drugs. The innovation we are putting in is really substantial.”
The support from Hapag-Lloyd has provided an excellent model to show to the market – “and the market wants this,” he added.
Tracking and the visibility it brings can also help with decarbonisation by reducing delays, unnecessary journeys and fuel usage, says ORBCOMM.
One rail customer had so much success pinpointing when containers were in use or empty, and thus eliminating delays in collecting empty and available containers that it saved the equivalent of 15% of the capacity of its fleet.
ORBCOMM says its solution is the first that digitises global dry container shipping at scale, providing visibility and traceability for shipping lines and their customers “so they can turn data into decisions for their maritime operations”.
Industry leaders explore global energy transition at 4th annual ABS Sustainability Summit
“There is a significant amount of work to be done between now and 2050 if we hope to hit net zero on carbon emissions but our research shows it can be done and maps out a pathway for the industry to get there,” said ABS Chairman and CEO Christopher J. Wiernicki in his address to the fourth annual ABS Sustainability Summit (pictured) held during London International Shipping Week.
The ABS chief was referring to the publication ahead of the summit of the class society’s annual Outlook report on the decarbonisation landscape entitled ‘Beyond the Horizon: View of the Emerging Value Chains’, which he described as connecting “the macro industry calculus for net zero by 2050 with the micro calculus reality of what is required at the ship level.”
The Outlook report examines in depth the carbon, ammonia and hydrogen value chains, concluding that the industry will need to accelerate investment in carbon capture technology, energy efficiency technologies and new fuels to reach net zero by the target date set by the IMO of 2050.
“Simply put, for shipping’s CO2 emissions to reach net-zero, we will need to harness the potential of energy efficiency improvement technologies to reduce aggregate fuel consumption by 15 percent on the existing fleet and newbuild vessels,” Wiernicki explained. “At the same time, we will need carbon capture rolled out across much of the oil burning fleet, reducing onboard CO2 emissions by 70 percent. Those that do not or cannot adopt carbon capture will need to switch to e-diesel or zero-carbon biofuels.”
“It is clear that the maritime industry is more than a spectator in the global green energy revolution,’ he added. “Instead, it serves as a critical facilitator and enabler. The transportation of carbon, ammonia and hydrogen as cargo highlights the industry's significance in bridging the global energy landscape's gaps between production, storage and consumption. Our industry will have a pivotal role in delivering a more sustainable future for everyone.”
The summit also heard from Emanuele Grimaldi, President and Managing Director of Grimaldi Euromed SPA and Chairman of the International Chamber of Shipping (ICS), who delivered the keynote address, as well as from Eamonn Beirne, Deputy Director, UK Shipping Office for Reducing Emissions (UK SHORE) at the Department for Transport (DfT). A panel discussion comprised representatives from the World Bank, World Economic Forum, Oldendorff Carriers, and MSC Group.
Foreship makes further commitment to growth in the UK
Foreship has relocated its UK subsidiary to larger premises and appointed Tuur Killaars as Senior Sustainability Specialist, in a dual response to the volume and scope of enquiries being dealt with by the naval architect and marine engineering firm one year after opening its doors in Southampton.
The new offices, located in the Director General’s House in central Southampton, support the Helsinki-headquartered consultancy’s continuing strategy for growth in the UK, with Killaars joining after several years as a Carnival Corporation naval architect. With a Master of Science in Maritime Engineering specializing in ship design from Delft University, he had previous roles with Ulstein Design & Solutions and De Voogt, respectively as naval architect and design engineer.
Shaun White, Managing Director, Foreship UK, said: “We are delighted to welcome Tuur to Foreship UK Ltd as we build our team to meet growing UK demand for Foreship’s independent consultancy on newbuildings, ship conversions, alternative fuels and the future technologies which can help owners adapt to the International Maritime Organization’s newly revised strategy for ship GHG emissions.”
The move to larger premises within a year of establishing its UK subsidiary provided evidence of continuing wider growth in demand for Foreship expertise, said Lauri Haavisto, CEO, Foreship Group. From headquarters in Finland, Foreship now operates nine offices in Europe and North America to support its services for new shipbuilding, conversion and refurbishment.
“Foreship has strengthened its ties with several of the UK's major cruise ship and ferry owners over the last year. The breadth of projects being worked on by our colleagues in Southampton shows that the appetite is strong for the full range of Foreship’s expert services, from ship theory, concept and detail design, dry dock support, and conversions to battery energy storage and alternative fuel feasibility studies.”
Since opening in 2022, the Southampton office has initiated, coordinated or participated in more than 20 projects. Its contribution was already being felt in high profile Foreship projects, including in its coordinating role on Seaspan Corporation’s ammonia-powered container vessel concept design, working with the Mærsk Mc-Kinney Møller Center for Zero Carbon Shipping. The innovative design has secured Approval in Principle from the American Bureau of Shipping.
“The UK is a global centre for pioneering marine science, research, and technology, and the past 12 months have also seen Foreship immersing itself in programs such as the Clean Maritime Demonstrations Competition (CMDC), Zero Emissions Vessel and Infrastructure (ZEVI) competition as well as engaging and supporting industry-led bodies like Maritime UK Solent to promote a thriving maritime sector in the UK,” said White.
IMPA and GenPro to launch industry-first sustainability standard for global maritime supply chain
IMPA, the International Marine Purchasing Association, together with the maritime & commercial company GP General Procurement Company Limited (GenPro) have joined in partnership to create an industry first maritime sustainability standard which will be named MSCSS (Marine Supply Chain Sustainability Standard) and launched at IMPA London 2023 as part of London International Shipping Week.
For over two years, the IMPA and GenPro working group has been active in developing the standard that will set the minimum Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) requirements a marine supplier and/or service provider should meet in order to prove in a verifiable manner their minimum sustainability maturity level.
The working group believes through its combined research and member feedback that the industry urgently needs/is calling for a benchmark standard on which to assess supply chains to qualify supplier sustainability credentials and demonstrate transparency in their operations.
Stephen Alexander, IMPA’s Chief Operating Officer and Secretary General stated: “For some years now the IMPA council have discussed such a standard, this is because members and stakeholders alike continually ask how they can verify and certify the sustainability of their supply base, some have gone so far as to suggest they would use such a mechanism on which to first select and appoint suppliers into their mix.”
He added: “We have wanted to develop such a standard before now but lacked the resources. Our partnership with GenPro has enabled a multi-disciplined and structured approach to establishing something which we expect will have far reaching impact and provide immense benefit to members and the industry.”
The Shipping Industry, despite having over 400 sustainability standards available, lacks a dedicated and industry specific sustainability standard. Purchasers and Suppliers are overwhelmed with a transactional wave which creates a unique sustainability footprint. Currently shipping companies (Operators & Managers) are expected to communicate their sustainability reports and include within their supply chain’s sustainability maturity without being able to verify the same across the board relying only on their supply chain statements. At the same time, marine suppliers and/or service providers lack an industry approved and accepted sustainability standard that will allow them to refer to and accordingly reform internally and guide their extended supply chain.
IMPA has a well-established track record in sustainability having launched a world first in responsible supply chain management in 2013 off the back of the United Nations Guiding Principles and aptly named IMPA ACT programme. It aids ship owners in the efficient management of the company’s adverse impacts on human (including) labour rights, the environment (including climate) and anti-corruption principles. More recently the association has mobilised a huge stakeholder group through the IMPA SAVE programme that seeks to make change in the supply chain for improved sustainability; projects within SAVE include mass reduction of single use drinking water plastic bottles and improvements in buying strategy to reduce the procurement environmental footprint.
GenPro for its part has a strategy very much aligned to IMPA’s own agenda and has quickly established itself as a frontrunner on the sustainability agenda. GenPro, is an independent company offering members value and efficiency through commercialising the procurement of maritime products and services. The organisation already operates a stringent and detailed supplier audit and assessment function as part of its standard service which is seen as an essential component necessary for the new MSCSS Standard.
Maria Theodosiou (pictured), Managing Director of GenPro commented: “The introduction of MSCSS Standard promises to be a transformative milestone for our industry. Recognising early on the need to facilitate the structured assessment of suppliers and service providers against globally accepted standards, we embarked on a mission to provide our continuous support to the supply chain. We did this by engaging in meaningful cooperations that would have the potential to sustainably disrupt the marine supply ecosystem.
“By combining GenPro's time-tested, professional audit methodologies with IMPA's extensive contributions in the field, this new sustainability standard is poised to deliver substantial value to owners and managers alike. This will help the supply chain remain relevant and further support its sustainable development.”
The MSCSS Standard is expected to be rolled out from January 2024 with a suite of resources and a dedicated website. The programme will be available for all supply and service providers to engage in from January 2024 with a large number already looking to begin the journey.
Transport Secretary emphasises the partnership approach
Decarbonisation, partnership, diversity and funding were topics covered in a Q&A session with Mark Harper, the UK Secretary of State for Transport, at the start of yesterday’s LISW23 Headline Conference held at the IMO headquarters building.
Talking to Conference Chair Paddy Rodgers (pictured), Harper (right) said the key word that had emerged through during the many LISW events and discussions was ‘partnership’.
“As a Conservative, my natural inclination – demonstrated by the shipping industry – is that private industries tend to be well run,” said Harper.
During talks with the industry, it was clear that the sector doesn’t really want the Government ‘helping’ on the operational side, he said – “because it was very clear that it could deal with the operational side very well. The right relationship is for Government to work in partnership with the industry on the challenges we face.”
The industry knows that it has to decarbonise, said Harper. “The big question is, how do we do that to ensure that we have an [economically] vibrant industry?”
Decarbonisation is not just the environmental goal but also about making sure it is consistent with a profitable, thriving sector, he said. “Because that’s the only way we are going to do it.”
Harper highlighted the Department for Transport’s UK SHORE [UK Shipping Office for Reducing Emissions], set up earlier this year as an office dedicated to making maritime greener. Of the £206m of new funding through UK SHORE, £80m has just been allocated for ten vessel/port clean maritime projects, the winners of the Zero Emission Vessels and Infrastructure (ZEVI) scheme.
“There will be some carrots, but Government can’t fund all of it,” said Harper. However, he pledged to work with Claire Coutinho, appointed Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero last month, to make sure the required power supplies were provided to ports – a major issue in the drive for port/vessel electrification.
The challenges ahead will require much greater skills, said Rodgers – what is the UK thinking?
“I completely agree with that,” said Harper. The Skills Minister from the Department for Education has launched the Government’s shipbuilding skills package, and ministers from the Department for Science, Innovation and Technology have been talking about AI skills, he said.
“We are also talking about having a more diverse workforce – how we get the maritime sector to be much more attractive to younger people and get women into the industry.
“I have had a range of ministerial jobs, once as the minister for disabled people. One argument for having disabled people involved in the business is that it’s good CSR, but it is also to make sure you have access to the most talented people.
“There are lots of reasons why it’s a good idea to have a more diverse workforce. It is good for business and getting the most skilled people involved. If you ignore great big chunks of the population and workforce, you are not going to have the smartest people.”
Diversity of thought is important in all organisations, said Harper. “Whether government departments, political parties or corporates, they are effectively teams. They are only as strong as the team and the teams are strongest if you have diversity with different perspectives.”
Clean Maritime Day package sets UK on course to make green shipping a reality and level up coastal communities
A new package of clean maritime measures, unveiled by the Transport Secretary today, will help tackle the biggest emitter of greenhouse gas emissions in the UK’s transport sector while boosting economic growth.
Following the Clydebank Declaration for Green Shipping Corridors at COP26, a £1.5 million International Green Corridor Fund has been launched, in collaboration with international partners, including Norway, Denmark and the Netherlands, to make end-to-end green shipping a reality.
Announced during London International Shipping Week, the pot will part-fund feasibility studies, with further match funding from international partners and industry, to explore how to bring to life our commitment to decarbonise our international shipping lanes.
The corridors will act as a testing ground to encourage the development of vessel technology, shoreside infrastructure and regulations to better push industry towards decarbonisation – creating new jobs and opportunities for the sector to thrive, both economically and environmentally.
Transport Secretary Mark Harper said: “With 95% of the UK’s trade happening by sea, the maritime sector is vital to our country’s economic output but it’s also one of the biggest contributors to the UK’s emissions.
“That’s why it’s so important that we focus on how decarbonising maritime can help grow the economy – today’s package helps create highly skilled jobs and supports the levelling up of our coastal communities.”
Maritime Minister Baroness Vere said: “The UK maritime sector is a world leader in green shipping practices but the journey towards a fully decarbonised sector by 2050 requires us to continue innovating, pushing forward and building on that status.
“With the world’s mariners focusing on London this week, it’s fantastic to once again show how the UK continues to be a driving force in the industry through our new Clean Maritime Day package.”
This work will go hand in hand with the new Clean Maritime Research Hub, which will put the UK in a leading position in maritime decarbonisation, creating jobs across UK academia and producing research that not only supports green economic growth but enables businesses across the UK maritime sector to get a head start in using clean technologies.
The hub will further bridge the gap between academia, industry and think tanks, bringing together the brightest minds and facilitate solutions to some of the toughest net zero challenges that face the sector. Formed by a consortium of 13 UK universities and over 70 wider partners led by Durham University, the hub is backed by £7.4 million of funding from the Department for Transport and UK Research and Innovation. On top of that the hub will receive £1.85 million funding from the universities and will leverage a minimum of £9.7 million cash or in-kind private contributions with more expected over the lifetime of the programme until March 2027.
This partnership will ensure that industry leads the way towards greener shipping. Alongside this a second research hub, the Net Zero Transport for a Resilient Future Research hub, has launched, looking specifically at developing affordable low-carbon transport infrastructure like charging stations or alternative fuelling.
Professor Miles Padgett, Interim Executive Chair of the Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council (EPSRC), said: “Investing in research and innovation is crucial to achieve the UK’s ambitious target of net zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2050. Domestic shipping emits more polluting gases than buses and rail combined. A maritime research hub will bring together world-leading expertise and support the sector to develop and commercialise clean maritime fuels and technologies.”
Mark Simmonds, Director of Policy & External Affairs at the British Ports Association, said: “Green corridors are an exciting opportunity for industry to demonstrate the low emission fuels and technologies of the future. The partnerships between industry and different governments will be critical in making them a success so we are pleased to see coordinated funding from the UK and other countries with high ambition for tackling climate change. We look forward to engaging with the new maritime hub on tackling some of the technical barriers faced by industry in meeting our net zero ambitions.”
Building towards a new future requires foresight and that’s why we are allocating £1 million to accelerate the development of maritime clusters across the UK. Clusters drive collaboration between industry, academia and government and are key to delivering economic growth and jobs in the sector while meeting our environmental goals. For example, the work of Mersey Maritime has supported the sector’s £2.74 billion contribution to the Liverpool City region through business turnover. Going forward their role in delivering the next phase of the Maritime Knowledge Hub is expected to provide 4,000 jobs on completion and over the initial period of its life.
The UK Government reports that elsewhere, the Cornwall Marine Network has created 4,450 new marine jobs and apprenticeships, supported 890 unemployed people to gain jobs and engaged 36,000 young people in marine vocational training and careers. It believes that accelerating the development of the country’s maritime clusters will support coastal communities and help the maritime sector to deliver economic benefits both regionally and nationally.
Earlier this week £80m of funding was allocated to winners of the Zero Emission Vessels and Infrastructure (ZEVI) scheme, which will see on vessel and shore side clean maritime technology demonstrated in conjunction for the first time as part of UK Shipping Office for Reducing Emission (UK SHORE) funding.
Having grown consistently – and rapidly – since its conception in September 2013, this year’s London International Shipping Week is the event’s 10th anniversary and will explore the future of maritime with decarbonisation and the influx of artificial intelligence. It runs until 15 September.
InterManager launches new ship management General Principles of Conduct and Action
InterManager, the international trade association for third party and in-house ship managers, has today launched a set of ‘General Principles of Conduct and Action’ for the international ship management sector which it says will drive up quality across the industry.
Announcing the new General Principles of Conduct and Action, during London International Shipping Week 2023, InterManager President Mark O’Neil (pictured), CEO of the Columbia Group, said: “These new industry-wide Principles reflect the fact that InterManager members are committed to achieving high standards in providing their wide range of services to the global shipping industry.
“These General Principles will inevitably raise the standard of international ship management and the services of associated suppliers. As professionals we must always aspire to improve and share knowledge.”
InterManager’s General Principles of Conduct and Action sets the collective principles that all InterManager members should follow and is regarded as vital to their success in reaching the highest standards of ship operations. The General Principles represent some 18 months of work by InterManager members sharing their experience and represent the fulfilment of an important mandate for the President, who is in his second term of office. Mr O’Neil advised that that the General Principles are dynamic and evolving and predicted they “will get stronger over time”.
Highlighting the fact that InterManager members represent the top echelon of ship management, regardless of their size, Mr O’Neil urged ship owners and operators to support the General Principles by discriminating between InterManager members and non-members. “It’s a simple fact that there can be no reason why a manager would not want to be a member of InterManager unless it did not want to open itself up to improvement by incorporation of these General Principles and to self-assessment or audit. I would expect discerning clients to opt for companies that aspire to these Principles and are open to audit.”
Mr O’Neil advised that the new General Principles Conduct and Action are aspirational and there is no pass/fail scenario. “We do not expect full compliance on day one, from either existing or new members, but there has to be a demonstrable commitment to working towards full compliance and a steady improvement,” he said, adding: “The whole purpose of the General Principles is not to pass or fail but to show how positive change can be implemented and for that change to be wanted. For new members, self-assessment will be the initial step upon entry.”
Initially the General Principles will rely on a self-assessment but there will then follow periodic, confidential audits by a third party. The aim of the audit will be to assess and demonstrate how and where improvement can be achieved. In instances of concern, poor practice, or failure to remedy, InterManager’s Executive Committee will determine whether the particular company should remain a member, although Mr O’Neil stressed: “We are really talking about exceptional cases which I hope will be very rare.”
InterManager is proud to be leading the industry by improving standards in this way and at a time when shipping is striving to meet sustainability goals. Championing the General Principles Captain Kuba Szymanski, InterManager Secretary General, commented: “I firmly believe that this process should be inclusive not exclusive, encouraging and aspirational as opposed to penalising, and co-operational as opposed to confrontational. I congratulate my InterManager colleagues on working together to create the new General Principles of Conduct and Action and applaud their commitment to this industry-wide measure.”
The General Principles of Conduct and Action are available on the InterManager website: www.intermanager.org
Avenir LNG places LNG bunker trio with Wilhelmsen Ship Management
London-headquartered global energy supplier for small-scale LNG and gas carrier owner Avenir LNG Limited has awarded the management of three LNG bunker vessels to Wilhelmsen Ship Management. The vessels awarded are Avenir Achievement, Avenir Ascension and Avenir Aspiration.
“We are thrilled to embark on this journey with our new client, Avenir, and we look forward to managing these state-of-the-art LNG bunker tankers, which hold a pivotal role in the industry's ongoing energy transition,” said Carl Schou (pictured, left), CEO and President of Wilhelmsen Ship Management. “We are excited about the opportunities this collaboration will bring and the value it will deliver to both parties.”
Avenir is a new customer to Wilhelmsen. The three vessels were previously managed by Hoegh LNG, one of three blue-chip shareholders in Avenir LNG alongside Stolt Nielsen Ltd and Golar LNG.
“Hoegh LNG have contributed enormously to the success of Avenir LNG since the company was established in 2018, paving a solid foundation for the future,” said Avenir LNG CEO Peter Mackey (pictured, right). “We applaud all their hard work and Hoegh LNG will continue to be key part of our growth trajectory as a key shareholder.
“The award to Wilhelmsen, one of the world’s top ship managers with global reach, represents a new milestone on our journey and we have full confidence in the added value they can deliver.”
With a new strategic vision and robust asset base, he adds that Avenir is well-placed to weather what can often be a volatile market.
The Oslo-stock listed company currently has a total fleet of 5 tankers in the water. The latest vessel to join the fleet was the 20,000-cbm Avenir Achievement in May last year. It also owns a small-scale LNG terminal in Sardinia, with assets/partnership now operating in China, Malaysia, the Mediterranean, Baltic Sea and the Caribbean.
Procureship partners with ABS Wavesight to optimise marine procurement lifecycle
Athens-based Procureship, provider of one of the world’s leading e-procurement platforms for marine buyers and suppliers, has joined up with ABS Wavesight™, the ABS-affiliated maritime software-as-a-service (SaaS) company, to offer its digital procurement platform to fleet owners and operators looking to optimise and streamline their operations through digitalisation of their maritime procurement and purchasing.
The agreement will see Procureship included in ABS Wavesight’s portfolio of vessel and voyage optimisation tools. The software will enable ship owners and operators with the ability to boost the efficiency of their procurement processes, drive cost savings and improve the accuracy of their maritime operations.
Accessing Procureship’s platform from ABS Nautical Systems will give operators access to a procurement cycle optimisation tool that combines management and procurement in a single pane of glass. Nautical Systems’ Purchasing Manager will provide unified procurement management and inventory control, while Procureship will contribute its advanced machine learning (ML) capabilities, real-time market analytics and reports with tailored recommendations to support more informed purchasing decisions.
“As maritime’s digitalisation journey continues, alliances will be the key to progress,” said Grigoris Lamprou, Chief Executive Officer at Procureship. “ABS Wavesight shares in our belief that maritime’s next best tools will come from close collaboration between experts, and this alliance is proof of that. Helping operators use our unique systems in tandem will deliver more impactful results for organizations and the industry.”
“Effective procurement processes are a strategic imperative for operators, as they can drive operational efficiency and cost savings,” said Paul Sells, Chief Executive Officer at ABS Wavesight™. “While environmental protection plays a large role in what we do, it’s not the only benefit of digitalisation. Giving users the option to bring Procureship’s world-class capabilities to the ABS Nautical Systems® ecosystem will help maritime businesses realise the comprehensive benefits of their digital tools.”
EU Commission President names landmark methanol vessel ‘Laura Mærsk’
The world’s first methanol-enabled container vessel will carry the name ‘Laura Mærsk’, the EU Commission President Ursula von der Leyen revealed at a ceremony in Copenhagen on Thursday.
The name was revealed in the Port of Copenhagen on Thursday during a ceremony, when the ship’s godmother, President von der Leyen, christened the vessel by breaking a champagne bottle over the bow. Besides the godmother, Maersk Chair Robert Uggla and Maersk Chief Executive Officer Vincent Clerc also spoke at the ceremony.
“Laura Maersk is a historic milestone for shipping across the globe,” said Vincent Clerc, CEO of Maersk. “It shows the entrepreneurial spirit that has characterized Maersk since the founding of the company.
“However, more importantly this vessel is a very realp roof point that when we as an industry unite through determined efforts and partnerships, a tangible and optimistic path toward a sustainable future emerges. This new green vessel is the breakthrough we needed, but we still have a long way to go before we make it all the way to zero.”
‘Laura’ is a proud Maersk name deeply rooted in some of the company’s very early innovative landmarks. When Captain Peter Maersk Moller bought his first steamship in 1886, he named her ‘Laura’. With its steam engine, ‘Laura’ was a product of the second industrial revolution, making its impact on the shipping industry significant.
Furthermore, ‘Laura’ was the first vessel to wear the white seven-pointed star on a light blue background. This symbol later would become the logo of A.P. Moller - Maersk.
Maersk has an ambitious 2040 target of net zero greenhouse gas emissions and aims to transport a minimum of 25% of Ocean cargo using green fuels by 2030. The 2,100 TEU (twenty-foot-equivalent) feeder vessel is an important step toward the long-term objective of gradually renewing the entire Maersk fleet to operate solely on green fuels.
Maersk has 24 additional methanol vessels on order for delivery between 2024 and 2027 and a policy to only order new, owned vessels that come with a green fuel option.
Innovation in port skills, from 3D to VR
A port as a 3D model and another port in VR (virtual reality) were two examples of innovation in port skills that were explained in depth at the Watermen’s Hall during London International Shipping week.
The event, organised by Port Skills and Safety (PSS), featured several examples of new technology at work, and concluded with breakout discussions groups to consider the use of technology: to improve and monitor careers outreach, for recruitment and assessment, for increasing engagement and outcomes in training, and for upskilling courses required for current workforces.
In a presentation entitled ‘Bring port skills to life – how digital innovation can support career development and outreach’, Chris Hatter, Head of Compliance at Portsmouth International Port, and Pablo Aguirre Babiloni, of Estudio Cactus, described the creation of a 3D map of the port. This was initially set up for safety but is being leveraged for other applications such as interactive and self-learning opportunities for children, practical help for staff and route directions for drivers who are unfamiliar with the port.
The main aim is to use the technology to avoid accidents and risks: “We work with the Portsmouth safety team so they don’t have to improvise,” said Babiloni. “We safety, you get predictability.”
“Using the 3D model and making it interactive is adding a layer of connection to people,” said Hatter. “We can also use the model for training – it takes you around the port and gets people interested.”
Saheed Onisemo, ABP’s Health, Safety and Environment Trainer, discussed the development of a VR port, which has been designed to look like various of ABP’s 21 ports, but not an exact port.
There were some interesting early problems when designing the VR port; users could walk through walls or take a step the wrong way and fall into oblivion. Lampposts ‘floated’ and the overall result was ‘too perfect’ – there were no cracks in the pavements, said Onisemo.
The model was upgraded several times, then tested on staff and apprentices. “Some said – health and safety has become cool,” he said. “Through this VR, I want people to understand where they can and can’t go for health & safety reasons. We want to truly understand what people are doing and why they are doing it. When we understand that, we can start to establish and tailor what we are saying in our training courses.”
At present, the VR is being used in ABP’s internal H&S courses – it is being scaled up for use in other training areas, including leadership, plant and equipment, and refresher training.
UK Government urged to prioritise port grid connections to enable shore power, green corridors
The UK Government is not investing enough to support decarbonisation in ports, and grid connections must be prioritised, delegates were told at Arup’s ‘Shipping decarbonisation, the role of ports, opportunities for the UK’ event during London International Shipping Week.
Doug Bannister, Chief Executive of the Port of Dover, outlined the sustainability agenda at Dover, including a Net Zero target for Scopes 1 and 2 by 2025 and work to establish the first high-volume green corridor across the English Channel.
In March, Dover signed an MoU with the ports of Calais and Dunkirk, and DFDS (pictured) to develop the green corridor. “There is an option here all the ferries are electric. The problem is, we don’t have much power,” said Bannister. “Predicted demand would be 160MW. Right now we have [access to] 8MW. They are not going to invest in electric ferries unless there is power in the port, and we are not going to invest in electricity in the port unless there are electric ferries.”
He added: “Calais has a massive electricity infrastructure behind the port, so their investment decisions are a lot easier in that regard. Dunkirk has a nuclear power station in their port. Meanwhile, we have a National Grid infrastructure which needs a tremendous amount of investment. From the port perspective, we go on the list behind the garage, the supermarket, the shopping mall and the hotel operator.”
Dover has three ‘asks’ of Government “to help us take a leading role in decarbonisation of the supply chain”, he said. “First, prioritise grid connections into the ports. We don’t need to be more important than hospitals, but you have to see us a bit higher up the list.”
Second: “Make it easier for us to invest. Planning regimes are quite cumbersome and clunky. Open the doors, guys, is the message. Help us because we are ready to go with this stuff.”
Third: “We might need a bit of funding or guarantees. There is insufficient capital being deployed by the UK Government in these things.”
Maersk has set a target to decarbonise its business completely by 2040 – not only ships and terminals but also air, land and warehousing, said David Browne, Director Corporate and Social Affairs.
However, the route to Net Zero is not free, he emphasised. “Investment in infrastructure, fuels, technology and vessels all add costs to the bottom line and that could make us less competitive in the marketplace. Unless others step up or are forced to step up, we could become less competitive. The UK is not a good place unless we are all on a level playing field.”
Browne noted that Maersk’s first green methanol vessel had that morning entered Danish waters for her christening [see separate story], and it would arrive in the UK from Rotterdam later in September, to discharge containers at DP World London Gateway.
“The containers will go through DP World’s green terminal, to get on a train to the Freeport in the East Midlands, where they will be moved by electric truck and into our warehouse.”
This is only one ship and a few boxes but “a super example of what can be done”, he said. “It is great news. However, more is required. This state-of-the-art ship cannot plug into shore power at London Gateway because they don’t have the infrastructure or the electricity. So it is a sunk cost.”
Dr Tristan Smith, Co-Founder of UMAS, agreed that the UK Government is not investing enough. Outlining the opportunities and risks around decarbonisation, he warned: “Expectation of support paralyses action. Assume weak UK Government support and direction pre-2025 – don’t be paralysed.”
Investment in electrification is a ‘no brainer’, said Smith. He described UK production or a UK supply chain of hydrogen-derived fuel as ‘not obvious’. “It only happens if there is much greater intervention by Government.”
International seminar to address maritime recruitment crisis and seafarer wellbeing in a changing world
On Thursday 16 November, the International Seafarers’ Welfare and Assistance Network (ISWAN) will hold its annual seminar at the Scandic Marina Congress Center in Helsinki. The event will be hosted by the Finnish Seamen's Service (FSS), which is celebrating its 50th anniversary this year.
The theme of ISWAN’s 2023 Seminar is: 'Addressing the maritime recruitment crisis: Seafarer wellbeing in a changing world'.
The maritime sector faces a growing recruitment and retention crisis, which has only been exacerbated by the extraordinary stresses placed on seafarers during the COVID-19 pandemic. Increased workloads, reduced shore leave, an unwillingness to undertake long contracts, and the over-occurrence of issues such as bullying and harassment are just some of the factors leading seafarers to seek alternative careers. At the same time, the need for highly skilled, experienced seafarers to steer the maritime sector through the transition to zero-carbon has never been greater.
ISWAN’s 2023 Seminar will take a solutions-focused approach to exploring how the maritime sector needs to address the recruitment and retention gap, with seafarers’ welfare at the heart of all discussions. The event will provide the opportunity to hear from a range of industry experts and is of relevance to all stakeholders that have an investment in the future of maritime, including shipping and cruise ship companies, crewing agents, management companies, training institutions, unions, P&I clubs, yacht owners and welfare organisations.
Presentations and panel discussions will be themed around fair working conditions, inclusive culture and the impact of rapidly changing technologies on wellbeing. The seminar will also include a session entitled ‘The voices of seafarers’, in which seafarers themselves will share what they see as the key issues contributing to the recruitment and retention crisis, as well as the challenges they are facing and the changes they would like to see.
ISWAN’s Chief Executive Simon Grainge said: “It is up to all of us in maritime to do everything we can to build a fair, sustainable and inclusive working culture for seafarers that both meets the challenges of a rapidly changing sector and restores the attractiveness of a career at sea. The ISWAN 2023 Seminar will bring together diverse stakeholders and experts to identify the changes needed and discuss actionable solutions for the future, drawing on innovative examples of good practice.
“We are delighted to be partnering with long-standing friends and members the Finnish Seamen’s Service to bring this event to life, whilst celebrating 50 years of their dedicated work for seafarers’ welfare in Finland.”
The seminar is free to attend and offers valuable opportunities for networking, but it will be streamed online for those unable to attend in person. Those planning to attend in person should register here: www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/iswan-2023-seminar-annual-members-meeting-tickets-663091774347. Registration details for the live stream will be announced at a later date.
Isles of Scilly Steamship Group names preferred shipbuilder for new vessels
The Isles of Scilly Steamship Group has named France-based Piriou as its preferred shipbuilder to build and deliver two new vessels for the Group.
In April, the Isles of Scilly Steamship Group announced a private financing solution for the replacement of the vessels and the intent to select a preferred shipyard. This announcement continues the next stage of the Group’s plan.
Piriou is a long-established ship builder with over 50 years’ experience building more than 600 vessels. It has over 1,400 highly-skilled employees, including an in-house design team and production facilities in Europe, Africa, and Asia. Piriou has a strong balance sheet with an annual turnover of over €300m.
Appointing Piriou comes after months of thorough evaluation, technical questioning and site visits to France and Vietnam, as part of the Group's due diligence processes.
The Isles of Scilly Steamship Group and Piriou will commence detailed design work with the intention of signing contracts in October 2023 for the new Scillonian IV passenger ship and a new cargo vessel to replace the current Gry Maritha.
Construction of both vessels will commence in Piriou’s Vietnam yard in spring 2024. The vessels will then be transferred to Piriou’s yard in France for commissioning and testing, ready for delivery ahead of the 2026 season.
Working with a team of experts, the project will be managed by the Isles of Scilly Steamship Group’s two on-site project managers to make sure that there is constant representation at the shipyard and to ensure that the build programme remains on budget and on time for delivery.
The new faster passenger ferry will be designed to provide passengers with greater comfort through improved stabilisation, accessibility and an overall enhanced experience, in line with feedback received during the Group’s consultation with visitors and residents on Scilly.
The new cargo vessel will have increased freight capacity and provide comfortable transport for up to 12 passengers per sailing during the winter. Both vessels will use the latest propulsion technology with improved environmental credentials along with the capability to be upgraded as green technologies mature.
Stuart Reid, CEO, of the Isles of Scilly Steamship Group said: "This is a big step forward and an important milestone for our vessel replacement programme, which will deliver new and improved vessels for the Isles of Scilly. The project team was unanimous in its decision to appoint Piriou as its preferred shipyard on the basis of experience, technical expertise in delivering specialist ferries and competitiveness."
Ian Howard, Chairman of the Isles of Scilly Steamship Group said: "Piriou has an excellent reputation for building both passenger ferries and cargo vessels. Its naval architects and senior management team have conducted multiple visits to Penzance and the Isles of Scilly and have a full understanding of the challenges of the route and infrastructure to support the new vessels. We are very excited to be working with Piriou and building vessels which will deliver significant service enhancements."
Vincent Faujour, President of Piriou shipyard said: “We are delighted and honoured to be named as the preferred shipyard by the Isles of Scilly Steamship Group for construction of its new passenger ferry Scillonian IV and new cargo vessel. As we have been building and maintaining lifeline ferries for decades, we know how important this project is for the communities depending on the sea link services to the Isles of Scilly. Working closely with the Group’s project team, our teams in Brittany and Vietnam are already fully dedicated to deliver to the Isles of Scilly Steamship Group the most suitable vessels, designed for rough seas, with increased comfort and a reduced environmental footprint.
“Finally, as Concarneau and Penzance have been twin towns since 1982, I must say it is a real pleasure to participate in a project that will strengthen the links between Cornwall and the Breton ‘Cornouaille’.”
Danelec extends lifetime support and warranty for new and deployed DM100 G2 VDRs
Leading maritime operational and safety technology company Danelec has boosted its long-term commitment to safety and compliance by extending the warranty for its flagship DM100 VDR Family from two to three years and extending the full support horizon until at least 2036.
The maritime industry demands innovative technology that guarantees compliance with the latest performance standards and dependable operation with a long lifespan to minimise cost and maximize ROI. Underscoring Danelec's dedication to providing state-of-the-art solutions that outpace the competition, the DM100 VDR G2 already has the technical lead, while the new warranty and service commitment position it as an even more dependable and cost-effective long-term investment.
The high reliability experienced with the DM100 VDR Family on diverse ships globally has enabled Danelec to introduce the maritime industry’s longest VDR warranty period. The unprecedented year- long extension will help to shield customers from the potential of unplanned disruption, and should an issue occur at sea or in port, Danelec’s global network of trained VDR engineers and the use of unique SWAP technology ensures a fast, and cost-free resolution when in warranty.
The new 2036 support horizon ensures that the DM100 VDR Family is a highly cost-effective long- term option for meeting SOLAS regulations, while also strengthening its use as part of onboard data- acquisition infrastructure that will be required for Ship Performance Monitoring systems designed to offer safer and more sustainable vessel and fleet operations, in the context of rigorous current and future carbon reduction legislation.
“The DM100 VDR Family reflects Danelec's commitment to solid, safe, and simple solutions that can be seamlessly integrated to deliver operational and economic value in the complex, highly regulated maritime market,” said Christian Kock, Chief Commercial Officer, Danelec. “The warranty and support extensions are a testament to the second-to-none hardware reliability as well as the expert-based and highly efficient global support network we have built up over two decades.”
Designed exclusively for the maritime sector, the second-generation of Danelec’s VDR offers unparalleled performance in a compact and lightweight form factor, ensuring easy installation and integration. And while the market continues to face production and delivery delays, Danelec DM100 VDR Family systems remain unaffected and are always in stock and ready to ship.
“With a large amount of ready to ship hardware, the sales and fulfilment teams of Danelec continue to ensure that delivery dates are met, and that shipping goes off without a hitch,” added Christian Kock. “Essentially, it’s business as usual and we are ready to help shipowners that have been struggling to get the VDR products they need.”
Airseas announces major investment in R&D centre to accelerate development of wind technology for shipping
France-based pioneer in wind propulsion technology for the maritime sector Airseas has announced a major investment in a new research and development (R&D) centre to accelerate the development of its Seawing kite system towards large-scale production and rollout.
Located in Dakhla (Morocco), the installation will comprise a 2,400m2 hangar and an advanced test bench, offering the opportunity to test the Seawing and its individual components systematically, in a variety of configurations. Dakhla, a world-famous location for nautical sports and kitesurfing, was selected because it offers continuous and stable winds, allowing the Airseas team to perform a range of trials on a daily basis.
This new R&D centre will enable Airseas to accelerate its testing programme of the Seawing, a parafoil that flies 300 meters above the sea level to reduce the main engine load for oceangoing vessels, thereby slashing fuel consumption and greenhouse gas emissions. This facility will enable Airseas to conduct tests more frequently to validate the final phases of the system’s development, including fine-tuning the flight dynamics. This land-based testing complements the ongoing sea trials programme for the Seawing, with new trials scheduled to take place on a vessel owned by K Line in the coming months.
Vincent Bernatets, CEO of Airseas, said: “We are excited to enter this new stage of the Seawing development programme, with testing taking place simultaneously on land and at sea to accelerate technological advancement and ultimately make a key decarbonisation solution available to a wider number of shipowners. Today’s investment in a state-of-the-art testing centre demonstrates Airseas’ long-term commitment to research and development and to continuously improving our wind propulsion solutions for the maritime sector.
“This comes at a pivotal time, as shipping is under growing pressure from regulators, investors, and its customers’ customers to reduce its environmental impact, starting this decade. We are convinced that wind propulsion will play a central role in this transition, now and in the longer term. Given the urgency of the climate crisis, there is no time to wait, and this is why we are working tirelessly to progress our Seawing system through the final testing stages and towards larger-scale industrialisation.”
ClassNK certifies CO2 emissions reductions of green-steel
ClassNK has conducted third-party certification for the CO2 emissions reductions of JGreeX™, green-steel products provided by JFE Steel Corporation.
For each JGreeX™ product, JFE Steel uses the mass balance approach to determine the level of CO2 emissions reductions. Under this approach, the environmental values of CO2 emissions reductions across entire manufacturing processes are aggregated to any products considered to have low CO2 emissions intensity. This is expected to contribute to the decarbonization of society by accelerating CO2 emissions reduction across its entire supply chain.
ClassNK conducted a conformity assessment of the calculation report, prepared by JFE Steel, related to CO2 emissions reductions associated with JGreeX™ products. This assessment was done in accordance with ISO 14064 and relevant standards. Upon confirming the calculation report’s compliance, ClassNK issued a conformity assessment statement to this effect. ClassNK will continue its involvement in third-party certification related to the proper management of JGreeX™ as green-steel products.
In anticipation of the growth in manufacturing and utilization of green-steel products, ClassNK will strengthen relevant certification services in addition to the third-party certification for CO2 emissions reductions conducted this time and strive to contribute to proactive efforts toward decarbonization.
Newport Shipping launches NAV for next-generation vessel design
As part of its strategy to enable shipowners to access greener technology and solutions, Newport Shipping is proud to launch 100% subsidiary NAV as its latest Naval Architect design house for environmentally friendly vessels.
Accessing the 60 years’ experience of Newport Shipping, NAV will bring together the technical expertise of its design team to further strengthen its offering to the market, whilst also venturing into the newbuild and offshore market.
As a pioneering engineering and technology company, NAV is committed to driving sustainable solutions that deliver unmatched performance, efficiency, and environmental benefits. Its debut offering is a concept for versatile Crew Transfer Vessels (CTV) for use by the Offshore Wind sector.
Ingmar Loges, Founding Partner, NAV comments: “This is a logical next step in our business approach. We cater for the ship repair and retrofit market, but at the heart of what we do is good engineering. For us it was a natural move to develop in this area and to evolve the developing expertise that we have in the future.
“The Offshore Wind market with its positive dynamics is the world’s fastest growing energy source. In a first step we concentrate on CTV designs due to the fact that these vessels will always be the backbone of the offshore wind logistics infrastructure.
“Our vessel designs offer maximum flexibility whilst meeting future demands of environmental regulations. This is where we can help the market to take the next step to more environmentally friendly and efficient vessels. The bonus is that we can also offer this for a competitive price.”
NAV plans to begin by construction of eight IMO Tier-III compliant, hybrid CTV newbuildings, four 26 metres in length and four 33 metres length. The vessels will be constructed at Cicek Shipyard in Tuzla Bay, Turkey, with deliveries from July 2024 through September 2025, after which the company seeks an equity partner to charter the vessels out and perform technical management.
Newport Shipping was established in the UK in 2011 with vessel management, design, construction and repair experience dating back to the 1960s. The Company is active globally with the services of dry-docking, retrofit, repair and conversions with a low carbon focus in 15 yards with 38 docks capable of handling approximately 2,500 repairs annually of all vessel classes and sizes.
Strategic Marine joins Cyan Renewables in advancing electric harbour craft in Singapore
Cyan Renewables today, together with its consortium of six other partners, announced the launch of a green energy consortium to jointly design and develop electric harbour craft operations in Singapore.
Led by Cyan Renewables, the consortium comprises Bureau Veritas Marine, PSA Marine, Strategic Marine and technology providers SeaCabbie, Sea Forrest and Victory.
The consortium, formed to participate in the Maritime and Port Authority of Singapore (MPA)’s call for proposal to develop electric harbour craft operations, is supported by one of Asia’s largest liner shipping companies, Pacific International Lines (PIL).
While Singapore targets for new harbour crafts to be fully decarbonised from 2030, the country currently lacks commercially viable solutions to enable such a transition.
The consortium seeks to ease the energy transition for Singapore’s maritime operators with a focus on quality shipbuilding, flexible financing and customer access. With members across the entire renewable energy value chain, the consortium is the first in Singapore to:
- enable the leasing of renewable vessels (via Cyan Renewables), thus
reducing capital outlay for operators; and
- offer an innovative ride-hailing application for the ordering of launch
boats (via SeaCabbie).
Together with decades of experience in ship building, classification, and offshore energy management, the consortium’s solution is expected to significantly lower commercial barriers and reduce carbon emissions for electric harbour craft operations.
Lee Keng Lin, Founding CEO, Cyan Renewables said, “As Asia’s first pure play renewable vessel owner, Cyan Renewables enables operators to access green maritime solutions with minimal capital outlay, significantly reducing barriers against innovation. We are confident in the consortium’s ability to ease the green energy transition for Singapore’s maritime sector and are proud to be leading this effort.”
Strategic Marine Group is a full-capacity global shipbuilder with a focus on specialty aluminium craft construction and fabrication. It has a shipyard in Singapore, and presence in Australia and Europe. It operates principally in five key market segments, producing high quality vessels for Oil & Gas, Renewable Energy, Ferries & Transportation, Defence and Paramilitary and Port / Pilot Services. It has built and delivered more than 600 vessels made of both aluminium and steel for a variety of clients in the maritime, offshore and defence sectors.
InterManager announces winners of its #shippositive campaign
Five amazing images have earned iPads for their photographers as InterManager #shippositive campaign to show the upside of the shipping industry attracts big response
A social media campaign by InterManager, the international trade body for the shipmanagement sector, has attracted a widespread response from throughout the international shipping industry with seafarers and maritime workers keen to illustrate the positive side of their business.
The campaign’s five judges have now completed their challenging deliberations and chosen the five winning entries from the numerous images posted across social media – on Facebook, LinkedIn, Instagram and Twitter (X).
Five brand new iPad devices will soon be winging their way across the world to their lucky recipients whose images the judges felt best illustrated the positive side of the global shipping industry.
The winning images are:
• Sporting Ties by Kamil Kielek
• Happy Place by Wiktoria Ossiak
• Teamwork by Robert Ragadio
• Jump for Joy by MJ Villasis
• Southampton Ships by Nick Vass
The judges were drawn from across the international shipping community and included: Associate Professor Lars Lippuner, Director Warsash Maritime School; Christina Liviakis, Director of Business Development, American Ship Repair and President WISTA USA; Bjorn Jebsen, ship and crew manager and former InterManager President; and Jean Pontila, Second Officer sailing with Jebsen PTC Maritime; as well as InterManager Secretary General Capt. Kuba Szymanski.
Announcing the winners Capt. Szymanski said: “It was wonderful to see all the positive images of shipping spread across social media over the past few months. I’m delighted that so many maritime colleagues took the time to take and post photographs to show the positive side of their industry and I congratulate the worthy winners on their excellent images.”
nan
[video width="1920" height="1080" mp4="https://shipmanagementinternational.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/LISW-Soldiers_Compressed.mp4"][/video]
IUMI President characterises marine insurance market as “strength and stability in turbulent seas”
Opening this week’s International Union of Marine Insurance (IUMI) annual conference in Edinburgh, Scotland, President Frédéric Denèfle expands and explains the conference common theme of “strength and stability in turbulent seas”.
Discussing current turbulence, he began by setting out what is essentially “business as usual” for marine underwriters. He said:
“As marine underwriters, we are used to managing an array of casualties and losses onboard a variety of vessels and in ports and other shoreside facilities. Dealing with the fall-out from natural catastrophes such as earthquakes and weather events are also workaday issues. Similarly, operating amongst geopolitical chaos is an ongoing problem we face but this has been exacerbated recently with the war in Ukraine.”
“Marine insurers actively supported the creation of the original grain corridor to ensure that Ukrainian exports could still continue. Now that agreement has broken down, marine insurers are in discussions with the Ukrainian government to provide cover for the vessels moving Ukrainian cargoes.”
Continuing the theme of turbulence, Frédéric Denèfle explained how fragmentation was also causing headaches. From a trade perspective, covid had highlighted a range of strategic dependencies, it had led to a general reduction in global demand and had encouraged a relocation of activity closer to the consumer. On the legal side, shipping and insurance was being targeted with increased sanctions as well as local green regulations where, for example, some jurisdictions will not register vessels above a certain age. As the unified spokesperson for marine insurers, IUMI has liaised with various authorities and regulators to support both the industry and underwriters.
A consequence of inflation, caused by covid and the war in Ukraine was already manifesting itself in the increased cost of claims, the requirement to take on more risk as asset values increase, and a related need for more capacity in the market. Added to this, a general technology shift in terms of clean energy, clean propulsion and autonomous vessels was creating more “turbulence”. However, all new technologies and climate change reduction measures are welcomed by IUMI which stands ready to act as an enabler to their introduction.
Although the marine insurance market was in a state of flux, Frédéric Denèfle was confident in its ability to cope:
“As the world’s oldest insurance business, our sector has demonstrated its ability to flex to new needs and conditions, both market and macro-economic. I foresee a return to dedicated, experienced teams; a heightened reliance on intelligence and data systems to anticipate the consequences of geopolitical uncertainty; the emergence of local teams underwriting local business in their own areas to challenge fragmentation; an adjustment of market capacities and pricing to fight inflation pressures; and the creation of specialist teams to fully understand the implications of new technologies. Of course, much of this is already happening.”
Turning to IUMI itself, Frédéric Denèfle took the opportunity to highlight how the association had powered ahead in recent years and the changes that had taken place since 1979 when the conference had last been hosted in Edinburgh. He said:
“During my first full year as President, I have come to understand that marine underwriters face a range of complex issues but that they share common risks and don’t operate in isolation. As a community, we must invest in our collective future. Our business is not well understood and so we must draw on IUMI to bring us together, to provide a common voice and a unified path ahead. With that in mind, our 2030 strategy will lead us to become a stronger and ever-relevant association operating within a larger community of members and partners.”
BV and Hanwha Ocean announce JDP on structural assessment of independent LNG fuel tanks for ultra large ships
Bureau Veritas and shipbuilder Hanwha Ocean have announced a Joint Development Project (JDP) on the structural assessment of independent LNG fuel tanks for ultra large ships.
The JDP agreement was signed by Joong-Kyu Kang, Head of R&D Institute of Hanwha Ocean Co., Ltd and Drago Pinteric, Country Chief Executive Korea of Marine & Offshore at Bureau Veritas, at a ceremony during the recent Gastech 2023 in Singapore (pictured).
The project aims to enhance the design process of independent LNG fuel tanks and accelerate the development of new solutions for the structural assessment of those systems.
Today many vessels are equipped with independent tanks, either for the purpose of LNG/LPG transportation or for the use of LNG/LPG as a fuel. The particularity of these independent tanks is that they are not rigidly connected to the hull structure but are instead held by an important number of dedicated supports, which must be designed with consideration of non-linear structural response during operations, including loss of contact and sliding.
Accurately solving these contact nonlinearities usually requires large computational time, and the method is very sensitive to convergence parameters. Recently, Bureau Veritas developed a new methodology to assess contact behaviour nonlinearities. The method was validated by comparison with simulations, and it was demonstrated that the CPU (central processing unit) time is significantly lower, while maintaining the same levels of accuracy.
The proposed solution, which has been implemented in the Bureau Veritas hydro-structure interaction suite Homer, allows for the fully consistent structural analysis of vessels equipped with independent tanks.
Navigating the turbulent waters of the global supply chain: Reed Smith
A panel of industry experts delved into the pressing issues facing the global supply chain as part of Reed Smith’s London International Shipping Week (LISW) event last week. The speakers engaged in a discussion that focused on the biggest challenges facing the sector, including geopolitical uncertainty, the complexities of sanctions, and the adoption of decarbonisation.
A packed audience from across the shipping industry joined to hear the views of Aimee Nolan, Cargo Line Underwriter at Hiscox London Market, Mark Jackson, Chief Executive Officer at The Baltic Exchange, Faye Thompson, Legal Counsel at Peninsula, and Alexander Brandt, sanctions partner at Reed Smith.
Panel moderator and Reed Smith shipping partner Nick Austin introduced the first topic of how to decarbonise shipping. The panel’s consensus was that the industry’s approach is mixed and there is widely debated confusion over a range of new regulations from the IMO.
Discussion highlighted the risk of supply chain disruption ‘as we make our way towards the decarbonisation target’.
Thompson, from Peninsula, one of the leading global marine energy suppliers, explained: “There will be bumps along the road and a risk of supply chain disruption as we make our way towards the decarbonisation target. One example at the forefront of our minds is future fuels. We are about to embark on a journey towards a multifuel world with transition phases in between, and we don’t quite know how that looks in the long term. In the short to medium term, we’re likely to see an uptake in the use of drop-in biofuels, bio-blends and LNG, to reduce the CO2 factors before e-fuels pick up.”
The discussion also touched upon the much-discussed Carbon Intensity Indicator (CII), the IMO’s new regulations aimed at grading ships on their carbon emissions. Thompson emphasized the need for holistic supply chain planning, going beyond cooperation between owners and charterers, stating, “It really does need forward planning with the whole supply chain.”
Addressing the critical topic of insurance, Nolan, who as a cargo underwriter is involved in the risk transfer and risk mitigation relating to the physical loss or damage to cargo, delved into the challenge of nurturing an insurance industry that fosters the growth of the renewable market.
Nolan explained: “As a cargo underwriter who is also involved in project cargo, it’s an exciting time because there’s a whole new renewable industry that is growing at pace. We are working with clients to find new insurance solutions, for example for the storage and transportation of solar panels and wind turbines, as we want to play our part in the industry’s sustainable future. We are also working with the auto sector as it moves away from combustion engines to electric and other fuel sources, to ensure there is a solution during this transition phase.”
Nolan further emphasized the dual nature of the challenge: “There is a short-term problem that demands immediate attention, and there will also be a longer-term solution. Many of our longstanding clients are looking to energy transition over the next few decades. Therefore, we have to navigate this transition phase by supporting our clients, enabling them to sustain their operations while simultaneously investing in research to meet the growing demand for low and zero-emission fuels, aligning with ESG requirements.”
Addressing the introduction of regulated carbon markets in the shipping sector, such as the European Emissions Trading System (EU ETS), the panel discussed how the system could split the market into those who trade in the EU, and those who don’t.
Jackson, who has over 40 years of shipping industry experience said: “When regulation is introduced its transition to business-as-usual tends to be quite slow. With the EU regulation forging ahead, there’s a lot of grey areas and for many of the smaller to medium sized companies, the de-risking option is to not go there. That in itself presents opportunities because you end up with those who specialise, who will spend the money setting up in the EU and learning how to acquire and surrender allowances.
“Companies that get ahead have the first-mover advantage will have a pricing advantage over others. Therefore, in the initial phase for these companies there will be the opportunity to make money out of regulation. However, I always advise not to make regulation your core business, it should be the icing on the cake.
“From a simplistic and helicopter view you can see that there will be opportunities there. It’s bad for the consumer with increased prices, relatively good for business services and for driving the decarbonisation agenda. The business service sector benefits when you get split markets and these opportunities emerge, there are also those grey areas where the two meet – leading to the potential for disputes, delays, and operational challenges.”
The collective view from the panel was that the ongoing impact of the evolving sanctions landscape, particularly in the wake of the Russia-Ukraine conflict, continues to have a significant impact on every organisation involved in the supply of goods.
Brandt, who co-leads Reed Smith’s sanctions practice, discussed the challenges his clients are grappling with amid the rapidly unfolding sanctions programs. He stated: “The splintering in approaches by the EU and UK, and the different compliance practices and policies within the industry has and will continue to cause considerable disruption to global supply chains.”
Brandt emphasized ‘three inescapable truths’ that have surfaced in recent years, dating back to 2018. He said: “Firstly, there are more sanctions, they come out very quickly, and we are still in an area where this is evolving. As we move into more unsettled geopolitical times, regulators have become more comfortable in their skin and we have seen an increasing number of goods targeted, for example, some clothing to Russia is now sanctioned. Consequently, there is a need for more organisations to have sanctions compliance policies in place.
“Secondly, the sanctions are different, you have a splintering among programs – even among allies, such as the EU, the UK, and the U.S., where the sanctions authorities talk to each other on a weekly, if not daily basis. Rather than a unified approach, what we have ended up with is increasingly different sanctions. And thirdly, quite frankly, the sanctions are confusing. Looking at FAQs, it’s evident that despite everyone’s best efforts over the past 18 months, the EU’s Frequently Asked Questions generated absolute chaos in the market.”
Brandt concluded that the supply chain needs to be protected. He added: “Compliance is an evolving beast and to keep up requires investment, however not all clients have the resources in terms of time and finances to keep pace with evolving compliance practices and policies. It is a huge endeavour that throws a lot of sand in the gears of trade.”
“One area where we can help ourselves is to have clearly drafted regulations. Increasingly, we have two sets of rules to look at. What the law says and the guidance around it; the real battle ground is all the grey on the EU and UK side caused by this. This gives rise to very practical challenges, particularly where market participants may have different appetites to risk. To help ourselves, we have to try and help the regulators understand what it is they are legislating for and provide meaningful guidance, so we are at least singing from the same page. We need to make sure that the language is right for us. An exercise that the industry is starting to do.”
As the discussion drew to a close, the panel turned its attention to the concept of the ‘dark fleet’, with Jackson arguing that, while there is a dark fleet, there is also a ‘bright fleet, and a grey fleet.’
He said: “When sanctions were initially imposed, there was a fleet operating in areas that had long been subject to sanctions. However, we are now witnessing the emergence of a new generation of shipowners, in regions like the Middle East, India, and China, who are able to trade with Russia. This is not a dark fleet; it’s a bright fleet that operates in plain sight. Many shipping dynasties have come out of wars and now we are seeing the potential for another shipping dynasty in the making.
“We have to face the fact that we will continue to have this split and there will be countries that will take advantage of that. So yes, there is still a dark fleet operating below the radar with very low standards but there is another fleet that keeps their standards up and sees it as an investment.”
The event concluded with a talk from Ian Stokes, head of corporate engagement at the seafarer charity, Stella Maris, who spoke about their work supporting thousands of seafarers globally every year who are struggling with loneliness, exhaustion, bullying, and exploitation. He ended with a plea for donations to the four official charities of LISW; Stella Maris, Sailors’ Society, The Mission To Seafarers, and The Seafarers’ Charity.
Maritime UK Solent showcases regional investment potential at LISW23
Maritime UK (MUK) Solent brought together maritime businesses from the Solent with investors at the Maritime UK Global Trade Hub as part of London International Shipping Week 2023.
MUK Solent stepped onto the international stage at the UK’s biggest maritime event, regarded as one of the most important shipping events in the world.
Sharing the stage with the Rt. Hon. Penny Mordaunt MP, Daniel B. Maffei, Chairman of the US Federal Maritime Commission, and the Department for Business and Trade, Maritime UK Solent highlighted the Solent's flourishing maritime sector, and hosted an influential Solent Investment Showcase, enabling thriving marine businesses to pitch to UK and international investors.
Maritime UK Solent Chair Anne-Marie Mountifield and Managing Director Stuart Baker hosted the networking event on 14 September, where each maritime business was invited to pitch for investment to support their future growth. There was a common theme of clean maritime across all the great businesses that pitched - demonstrating the credentials of the Solent maritime sector in driving change in the sector through innovation and a pioneering spirit.
Solent organisations taking part were Chartwell Marine; Ecomar Propulsion; Griffon Hoverwork; Kraken Technology Group; Optima Projects; RAD Propulsion, Seabot Maritime; and Vulcan Offshore.
Anne-Marie Mountifield said: “Our Investors event was very successful and placed us at the heart of the action at London International Shopping Week.
“Every one of the Solent maritime businesses made excellent pitches for investment and left all the delegates in no doubt that there is huge innovation and collective excellence on offer in the Solent’s maritime industry.
“We are confident that the event will lead to more regional investment and future success for the maritime companies who took part and boost the region’s economic prosperity. The Solent is leading the way in shaping the future of maritime and there is an enormous amount of potential in our region.”
MUK Solent was also highlighted at the Maritime UK Regional hosted by Maritime UK and the Department of Transport (DfT).
Stuart Baker said: “Taking part in London International Shipping Week has been an excellent opportunity for MUK Solent to showcase the brilliant maritime sector we have here in the Solent.
“We are grateful for Maritime UK for its work to promote the growth of maritime communities across the UK. At Maritime UK Solent, we are proud to work with our friends from across the UK's maritime regions to support prosperity and levelling up. This regional spotlight event was very well received and shone a spotlight on the varied and flourishing maritime sector that exists in the UK.
“We are regarded as a powerhouse for British maritime and are proud to have achieved this recognition for the Solent’s successful maritime cluster, setting the highest standard for future growth.”
Find out more about MUKS, including the MUKS Awards evening in October, and get involved – visit https://muksolent.com/
Port of Antwerp-Bruges: role and responsibility in decarbonisation
The Port of Antwerp-Bruges, Europe’s second largest, is determined to play a role and take responsibility for decarbonisation, guests heard at a networking reception held at the residence of the Ambassador of Belgium in London during last week’s LISW23 event.
Luc Arnouts (pictured, right), VP - International Relations and Networks at Port of Antwerp-Bruges, said one of the key reasons for last year’s merger of the ports of Antwerp and Zeebrugge (within the municipality of Bruges) was the need to focus on the energy transition and he emphasised the role and responsibility of the port authority in this.
“We are starting to operate the first tugs in the world on methanol and hydrogen. But we need to decarbonise industry and replace with green. It is a huge challenge, to decarbonise the steel industry and the cement industry.
“Our role as a port authority is to try to be involved in the global production of green electrons and molecules and as an important base for green electrons and green molecules – we see a very strong role for our port to be a main importer and we have the space for expansion.”
The Port of Antwerp-Bruges also has a dedicated area for customers that want to invest in the circular economy. Finally, Arnouts referred to carbon capture and storage. “If we can’t reduce CO2 emissions, we have to capture, liquefy and bring this to safe storage. A project we are pushing very hard is to build a liquefaction plant.”
He emphasised the importance of innovation in the sector. “We are a very traditional sector. We transport goods from A to B – but over the last 10-15 years, this industry is really moving forward in an innovative way and putting a lot of money and energy into innovation.”
Three years of discussions preceded the merger of the ports of Antwerp and Zeebrugge in April 2022, said Arnouts.
“Why did it take so long? Because we wanted to go for full integration, and that means you need to integrate everything – ownership, one CEO, one executive committee, a fully integrated structure. I can assure you, it takes time.”
The two ports were very complementary, he said – Zeebrugge focused on ro-ro, multimodal and LNG, and the shortsea, and Antwerp focused on containers, breakbulk and the chemicals cluster, and the deepsea. The result is a port that is also ‘complementary to the region’ and has three pillars, said Arnouts: “We are much more than a port. We are a combination of port handling platform, big industrial complex and huge logistics complex. It is intertwined.”
NorthStandard identifies path for the future of P&I as it realizes early consolidation gains
Seven months after its formal launch, NorthStandard is already realizing tangible benefits from combining two of the best-known names in global marine insurance.
Following an internal restructuring process which ended on 1 September, NorthStandard says the foundations are in place to deliver the full advantages of consolidating North P&I and Standard Club under a single organization.
“Upholding service excellence has been critical during an extraordinary period of uncertainty for shipping,” said Jeremy Grose, co-Managing Director, NorthStandard. “Doing so while combining two legacy marine insurance businesses worldwide confirms our confidence that a consolidated NorthStandard is fully equipped for shipping’s urgent and future challenges.”
Grose added that a rise in the mutual poolable tonnage entered with NorthStandard over the period indicated that the market shared the Club’s convictions. Growing by just over 2.5% between 20 February and 31 August 2023, NorthStandard’s mutual poolable tonnage increased to approximately 260 M GT.
“We are very grateful for the trust being placed in NorthStandard by new and existing Members alike over the first half-year in operations,” said Grose. Despite the continuing global economic and political turbulence, NorthStandard’s financial position at the half year point remains resilient, with positive investment returns, a small underwriting surplus, and an increase in free reserves forecast.
After a reorganization allocating blue-water mutual Members to one of six Geographical Sectors and putting diversified products under the care of Specialty Sectors, NorthStandard’s new structure maintains the tailored and personal service of both legacy clubs as well as providing a sharper activity focus that pools expertise to target growth opportunities globally.
Following the launch, NorthStandard has seen continued growth across its diversified business divisions, thanks to the support from new and existing members and clients. “These are wins based on quality of service, but value for money has also been critical,” commented Paul Jennings, co-Managing Director, NorthStandard. “As well as delivering on plans for diversification, the new organization is proving resilient against inflationary pressures.”
Bringing the legacy businesses under a single roof in Singapore earlier this year has offered a model for balancing a consolidation strategy committed to retaining expertise while eliminating duplicated costs other than by reducing headcount. In this case, a move to a single premises reduced the cost base as previously each region was separately assessed, said Jennings.
NorthStandard had also worked with its reinsurers to negotiate broader agreements for the period ahead, said Grose. “Our reinsurance partners have shown an exceptional and highly appreciated flexibility in helping NorthStandard to secure a key benefit of consolidation,” he said.
Some administrative savings will accrue from February 2024, as insured parties migrate away from legacy policies to unified NorthStandard cover, while the Club is also evaluating the legal cost benefits of reducing the number of its registered insurance entities from the current five.
The tangible gains would influence NorthStandard’s position on this year’s renewal discussions and contribute to building what Grose described as “P&I that is ‘fit for the future’ to support Members in adapting to an increasingly complex maritime world”.
“We are cultivating a new role which seeks to lead and challenge shipping’s key debates in a constructive way,” he said. “The impact of sanctions through 2022-23 has shown that P&I holds a special place in global trade and that governments and regulators are increasingly likely to impose operating restrictions on shipping as part of their policy implementation”.
Jennings added: “The range and depth of discussions at our LISW 23 breakfast event last week clearly demonstrated that the intersection of big power politics continues to have a profound impact on maritime trade routes, the challenges of maintaining free and open seas and the evolving technology dynamics in this crucial sector for world prosperity. As a resource of global expertise, we are well placed to help governments, regulators and the shipping industry to understand the complexities of each other’s challenges.”
Looking to the future, Grose observed: “P&I can provide the same thought-provoking but practically-grounded expert counsel on maritime safety, decarbonization or digitalization to help stakeholders understand the changes needed and the challenges ahead.”
MCTC reveals new look as company heads into second decade with excellence, innovation and health & nutrition at its heart
Leading international catering management provider MCTC has revealed a brand-new look for the company as it embarks on its second decade in business with the vision to continue raising the standards of the catering maritime industry.
MCTC is revealing its new-look logo and website, alongside its plans for continuity and strategic growth following a period of significant growth and expansion, as the industry continues to prioritise the health and wellbeing of seafarers.
International company MCTC provides the full spectrum of catering management services to vessels, from recipe planning, ordering provisions, and budgeting, along with a range of catering and nutrition training courses for galley staff. It also promotes a healthy lifestyle with fitness and mental health initiatives.
Although the company is embarking on the next stage of its journey with a brand-new look, its values of innovation, health and nutrition and excellence, remain unchanged. MCTC is continuing with its vision to improve catering standards onboard and offering a holistic approach to its customers through catering management, training, and wellbeing initiatives.
The new logo incorporates colours that represent strength and elegance, with the bold lettering representing stability and unwavering commitment to its customers. Having already been in business for more than 10 years, MCTC has demonstrated its strength in overcoming challenges with determination. The logo also includes a nod to its Greek heritage with use of Greek font for the small M and C lettering.
Building upon its rich experience and expertise, MCTC will continue to expand its service offerings, cater to emerging market needs, and embrace technological advancements. It will ensure it remains a valuable resource for clients, providing them with the latest insights and innovative solutions for their onboard catering needs.
Looking ahead to the future, MCTC Group CEO Christian Ioannou said: “MCTC is delighted to be revealing our new look and exciting plans for the future. Investing in our crews has never been more important in attracting our new generation of seafarers to the industry.
“Over the next five years, industry attitudes towards health and nutrition are expected to undergo significant shifts. With increased awareness about the importance of overall wellbeing, there will be a greater emphasis on preventive healthcare, personalised nutrition plans, and holistic approaches to health. The industry will witness a growing demand for more natural products and sustainable practices. MCTC is well-positioned to capitalise on these trends and cater to the evolving needs of its clients, driving positive change in the maritime industry.”
Sustainability has long been part of MCTC’s vision. With current campaigns including reducing the use of single-use plastics and encouraging crews to introduce invasive species onto their menus, MCTC plans to continue with its green agenda and encourage companies and crews alike to adopt sustainable practices.
As the health sector in the maritime industry continues to flourish and evolve, MCTC anticipates further growth for the company from various sources, including plans to continue strengthening client relationships and deliver exceptional results. It is also looking to tap into new markets by leveraging its expertise and expanding its service portfolio. Additionally, strategic partnerships and collaborations will further contribute to MCTC's future growth, enabling it to reach new heights.
Click here to see MCTC’s new look website.
CMA CGM and Maersk join forces to accelerate decarbonisation of shipping industry
A.P. Moller - Maersk A/S (Maersk) and CMA CGM have decided to join forces on several areas relating to decarbonization, in full compliance with all laws and regulations. As frontrunners of the energy transition in shipping, both companies are convinced that joint action will help accelerating the green transition in shipping, learning from each other to go further and faster.
CMA CGM and Maersk have set a net-zero target for their shipping business, have identified scalable solutions that can create impact in this decade, and have already individually taken ambitious paths on promoting decarbonization for shipping. Maersk has been ordering vessels that can be operated on bio/e-methanol. CMA CGM has been ordering LNG-propelled vessels, that can also be operated on bio/e-methane, the new green equivalent of current LNG, and has also placed orders for vessels that can be operated on bio/e-methanol.
While these two fuel streams appear now as the most mature among existing solutions, both companies expect the future fuel mix of shipping will include other streams that should be developed in the coming years.
Specifically, both shipping lines will work more together to develop the use of alternative greener fuels for container vessel propulsion, namely:
- Developing high standards for alternative sustainable, green fuels – including the analysis of full lifecycle and related greenhouse gasses and helping to setting the framework of mass production of green methane and green methanol.
- Developing and maintaining standards for operation of green methanol vessels with regards to safety and bunkering, as well as accelerating port readiness for bunkering and supply of bio/e-methanol at key ports around the world.
- Continuing to explore jointly R&D on other components of the net zero solution as new alternative fuels, like ammonia, or innovation technology for our ships.
Moreover, Maersk and CMA-CGM both agree to the fundamental role of regulation in securing the decarbonization of the sector. Both companies warmly welcome the outcome of the recent Marine Environment Protection Committee of the International Maritime Organization during which the IMO’s 2023 strategy for reducing GHG Emissions from Ships was adopted, with reinforced targets to tackle harmful emissions.
Maersk and CMA CGM remain committed to jointly advocating for and encouraging IMO Member States to adopt ambitious measures in their pursuit of the highest attainable goals. Regional measures such as the EU Fit for 55 and the Inflation Reduction Act in the US are welcomed by both companies to help stimulate demand for green shipping solutions.
CMA CGM and Maersk affirm their readiness to collaboratively engage with regulatory stakeholders in establishing a robust and sustainable international regulatory GHG framework and invite other international shipping lines who so wish to join them in this cooperation with the regulatory institutions. Such a framework is in both our companies’ perspective a prerequisite to reducing carbon emissions for the shipping industry and securing a level-playing field for a global business environment.
“This partnership is a milestone for the decarbonization of our industry. By combining the know-how and the expertise of two shipping leaders, we will accelerate the development of new solutions and technologies, enabling our industry to reach its CO2 reduction targets. We are looking forward to being joined by other companies,” says Rodolphe Saadé, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of the CMA CGM Group.
“A.P. Moller - Maersk wants to accelerate the green transition in shipping and logistics and to do so, we need strong involvement from partners across the industry,” says Vincent Clerc, Chief Executive Officer at A.P. Moller - Maersk. “We are pleased to have an ally in CMA CGM and it’s a testament that when we united through determined efforts and partnerships, a tangible and optimistic path toward a sustainable future emerges.”
SEA-KIT unveils proprietary vessel control system
Leading uncrewed surface vessel (USV) designer and builder, SEA-KIT International, has unveiled a proprietary vessel control system (VCS) that harnesses the latest technological advances to enhance the capability of its commercially successful vessel designs.
As part of this inhouse development, new autopilot and drive modules have been built into the company’s existing, purpose-built remote helm station, GSAVI, taking the company a step closer to developing the first Type Approved vessel control system for USVs.
The GSAVI VCS uses industry-standard hardware that meets stringent class approval rules and has already been tested on multiple SEA-KIT vessels now operating on commercial projects offshore. GSAVI talks natively to all onboard and remote systems with advanced communications protocols, rapidly processing masses of data onboard to fine tune and optimise performance, monitor trends and even pre-empt potential operational and navigational issues that it can then alert the operator to.
Using edge-based computing onboard, reliance on external communication is reduced, ensuring real-time decision making and operation even in remote or communication- restricted areas. This, in turn, leads to faster response times and longer mission endurance.
Peter Walker, Technical Director at SEA-KIT said: “For vessel efficiency, reliability and to move in line with regulatory demands, we wanted to enhance and develop our tried-and- tested GSAVI system to offer full vessel control that seamlessly integrates with other payloads. I am genuinely delighted that the team has achieved that. We will continue to develop GSAVI, working closely with industry regulators to ultimately obtain Class Approval, an important milestone not only for SEA-KIT but for the sector as a whole.”
SEA-KIT has forged a leadership stance in the uncrewed vessel sector since being part of the winning Shell Ocean Discovery XPRIZE team in 2019. The company’s 12 metre X-Class design was the first USV to achieve Lloyd’s register Unmanned Marine Systems (UMS) certification in 2021 and its vessels have picked up numerous awards for innovation as well as achieving several industry firsts. Earlier this year, a SEA-KIT X-Class built for Fugro became the first USV approved by the Maritime and Coastguard Agency for operation with an electrical remotely operated vehicle in UK waters.
KPI OceanConnect and Uni-Tankers collaborate on successful biofuel trial
Uni-Tankers, a leading tanker shipping company, and KPI OceanConnect, a leading global marine energy solutions provider, today announced they have completed the successful supply and trial of a bespoke blend of B30 biofuel on Uni-Tankers’ M/T Alsia Swan. The trials are an important step for understanding the emissions performance of biofuel and validating its potential to help cut carbon emissions.
The trial took place in Amsterdam on board Uni-Tankers’ 5,700 DWT chemical tanker M/T Alsia Swan. KPI OceanConnect arranged for the supply of 34,000 litres of bio grade fuel containing a 30% blend of FAME (fatty acid methyl esters). The fuel supply was part of a two-day trial, which saw emissions for the biofuel measured and compared with emissions for LSMGO under the same conditions.
KPI OceanConnect’s local team of traders worked with their Uni-Tankers partners to identify a biofuel to meet their bespoke needs. The team oversaw the blending process to ensure the fuel met precise specifications and was on hand for the delivery to ensure the specially blended product supplied for the M/T Alsia Swan trials was good quality.
Throughout the trial, tests were carried out at four different loads to assess the reliability and performance of the bio-fuel blend. Alongside trials of the B30 biofuel, Uni-Tankers ran identical operations for an LSMGO fuel of equal quality, allowing accurate comparisons of the B30 biofuel performance. Sampling and analysis for the trial was performed by a team from FORCE Technology.
In results from the trial, Uni-Tankers saw particulate matter (PM) emissions reduced by as much as 42% when fuel supply was switched from LSMGO fuel to B30. Carbon monoxide (CO) emissions were also reduced by 18%. By using a blend of 30% biofuel and 70% fossil MGO, M/T Alsia Swan can cut lifecycle emissions of CO2 by an equivalent amount. In a future of tightening regulation of greenhouse gas emissions, this will be an important interim step ship owners can take to maintain compliance and support decarbonisation.
Jesper Sørensen (pictured), Global Head of New Fuels and Carbon Markets, KPI OceanConnect, commented on the project: “We are very pleased to be partnering with the Uni-Tankers team on this project to deliver high-grade biofuel for their vessel in Amsterdam. By sharing our knowledge and providing expert guidance on fuel strategies, including finding the right biofuel blend ratio to meet the specific needs of vessel operators, we aim to build partnerships with our clients that support their long-term success through the energy transition in shipping. For KPI OceanConnect our close partnership with Uni-Tankers is a model for delivering excellence to our clients.”
Lisa Clement Jensen, Head of Strategy at Uni-Tankers, commented: “The need to cut emissions is one of the most urgent matters in the shipping industry and we are very pleased to be working with KPI OceanConnect for the biofuel trials on the M/T Alsia Swan. Decarbonization is at the top our strategic agenda and we aim to contribute to a climate-resilient development of the shipping industry. These trials enable us to assess the potential and viability of biofuels as part of our ongoing decarbonization efforts.“
Seafarers reporting diverse mental health challenges to ISWAN’s helplines
The latest quarterly helpline data released by the International Seafarers’ Welfare and Assistance Network (ISWAN) highlights the diverse range of mental health challenges facing seafarers.
Calls and messages from seafarers relating to mental health increased by 37% in the last quarter (Q2 2023 – April to June) across all helplines operated by ISWAN. Seafarers contacted ISWAN’s helplines from across the maritime sector, from shipping to the cruise and superyacht industries.
In Q2 2023, 18% of seafarers who contacted ISWAN’s helplines about their mental health were experiencing family or relationship issues. These included difficulties in relationships with partners and anxiety about relatives who are unwell. Isolation and homesickness were also among the causes of mental health issues for seafarers, demonstrating the impact of the remote nature of working at sea.
16% of seafarers who raised mental health challenges in Q2 2023 were experiencing abuse, bullying, harassment, discrimination or violence (ABHDV). Cases included discrimination on the basis of sexuality or religion as well as bullying by senior officers. In the previous quarter (Q1 2023), ISWAN reported a significant increase in ABHDV-related cases across its helplines, with a particularly sharp increase on ISWAN’s helpline for the yachting industry, Yacht Crew Help, identifying this as a key problem area to address.
Another issue consistently linked with mental health difficulties among seafarers contacting ISWAN’s helplines is repatriation (14% of mental health-related cases in Q2 2023). However, seafarers also reported a range of other issues linked to mental health difficulties in the last quarter, including work-related stress, anxiety about physical health issues, and substance abuse.
The effects of such challenges to mental health can be exacerbated at sea, where seafarers are away from their usual support networks of family and friends, and living with their co-workers in often confined quarters. ISWAN’s series of infographics aims to shine a spotlight on the issues faced by seafarers to help the maritime sector identify where action is needed.
ISWAN’s Helpline Manager Chester Quintal said: ‘When a seafarer is struggling, they need to know that support is always available and easy to access, and our 24-hour helplines provide a safe, non-judgemental space to talk to someone about any problems or worries. The trends we identify in the issues raised by seafarers inform our work at ISWAN and help us respond to areas of need, and we are sharing these insights with the wider industry so that others can do the same.’
Electrolyzers, carbon capture and the cost of green fuels dominate Stopford-Wiernicki discussion
Reducing the cost of electrolyzers and rapid adoption of onboard carbon capture technology is going to be critical if shipping is to reach its net zero carbon emissions target.
That was the message for the industry from an inspirational discussion at London International Shipping Week between leading maritime industry economist Dr. Martin Stopford and Christopher J. Wiernicki, ABS Chairman and CEO. The pair held a wide-ranging discussion at the Capital Link Forum exploring key hurdles and drivers for shipping’s green energy transition, including fuel availability, carbon capture and the impact of the escalating costs of green fuels.
“The entire conversation is about what's going on in the internal combustion engine, but as you move from methanol to ammonia and LNG to green methanol, green ammonia and synthetic LNG, the pace is going to be driven by the cost of the electrolyzer,” said Wiernicki. “So, the two big things that I look at are how quickly you can reduce the cost of the electrolyzer and the cost of carbon capture. If you can’t reduce the cost of the electrolyzer fast enough, then you're into carbon capture and you have to go from grey to blue to green.”
Dr. Stopford said: “Green fuels are probably a step backwards for an industry going from heavy fuel oil and the next bit of bad news is they're going to cost you $2,000 to $3,000 a ton. This changes the whole economics of the business. And the final bit of bad news is that you won’t be able to get any of these fuels anyway because there are so many heavyweights already in the queue. For example, we feed the world by ammonia, which increases the yields 4, 5 or 6 times and there is nothing else if you take that away.
“Innovation is about making things work that don't work and we will find the only way you could bridge that enormous gap between running down the carbon the way the IMO wants us to is that you build or retrofit a lot of ships with carbon capture.”
Wiernicki replied: “Size, a strong balance sheet, great charter relationships and an understanding of the impact of technology on your commercial business is going to make all the difference in the world going forwards. You're going to have to take an eagle eye look at energy efficiency and onboard carbon capture because you can't build enough ships to magically change the global fleet. So, retrofits are going to be important.
“Owners will need to take advantage of layering of technologies. They are going to have to figure out what makes sense relative to the risk profile of the business. Commercial decisions in our industry are going to be more than just the historical reading of supply and demand. It's going to be reading the technology to take a calculated risk with partners and charterers to move this forward.”
Maritime industry sails into most successful ever London International Shipping Week
Global maritime leaders sailed full steam ahead into London in their thousands to attend the biennial London International Shipping Week 2023 (LISW23) which took place from 11th to 15th September.
More than 70 countries were represented by the 30,000 delegates, while a large number of overseas trade delegations met with UK Government officials as London and the UK underlined their importance in the global supply chain.
At the start of LISW23 (Monday 11th September) the Government outlined how coastal communities across the country are set to benefit from over £80 million of funding, also announcing the winners of the Zero Emission Vessel and Infrastructure fund (ZEVI). And on Thursday 14th the UK Transport Secretary unveiled a new package of clean maritime measures which aim to tackle greenhouse gas emissions in the UK’s transport sector while boosting economic growth. Maritime UK utilised LISW23 to publish the second Annual Report into its Government-backed ‘Regional Cluster Development Programme’ at the Global Maritime Hub while, speaking at the LISW23 Regional Showcase event, Maritime Minister Baroness Vere announced a £1million fund to support the work of dynamic and focused regional cluster organisations charged with the delivery of Maritime 2050 in their localities.
Transport Secretary Mark Harper said: “London International Shipping Week is the perfect time to showcase the work we’re doing to generate maritime jobs across the country and develop new, clean technologies.”
London’s expertise in shipping services was highlighted through the more than 350 events which took place during the packed LISW23 week in a myriad of impressive and iconic venues including: No 10 Downing Street; the UK Houses of Parliament; the International Maritime Organization’s headquarters; The Shard; The Gherkin; the London Stock Exchange; several Livery Halls; the Churchill War Rooms; Lloyd’s of London; the offices of many of the world’s top law firms; the In and Out Club in Piccadilly; the Little Ship Club; Trinity House; Tower Bridge Walkway; Inmarsat’s UKHQ; and the QEII Conference Centre. VIP receptions were hosted at Lancaster House, Mansion House, the Cyprus High Commission, and the residences of the Ambassadors of France and Belgium.
The strong nautical flavour was apparent in the number of unique ships which also hosted events including THV Galatea, HMS Belfast, Erasmus, Type 23 frigate HMS Iron Duke, the Golden Hinde, the historic Havengore which bore Churchill’s coffin, and Artemis Technologies’ innovative electric workboat Pioneer of Belfast.
High level UK support was apparent – from the Government-hosted VIP reception, attended by HRH The Princess Royal in her role as patron of Maritime UK, to the 16 Ministerial speeches delivered over the week. In all, the Department for Transport was involved in more than 80 events, with the Department for Business and Trade, the Foreign Office, and the Scottish Office also taking part. The UK Chamber of Shipping advised during LISW23 that the value of shipping to the UK economy is 650,000 jobs, with every job in shipping supporting 10 more in the wider economy, and £1.1 trillion worth of trade.
Among the crucial issues discussed during LISW23 were decarbonisation and the protection of marine environments, innovation and technology, seafarer safety and well-being, equality and diversity, cyber security and AI, and numerous legal, insurance and trade matters in relation to global shipping and the supply chain.
In excess of 700 delegates registered for the LISW23 Headline Conference at the IMO, during which retiring IMO Secretary-General Kitack Lim was presented with a nautical barometer and wished “fair winds and following seas”. Also present at this event were more than 40 media representing national, international and trade press. Media coverage figures indicate a potential worldwide audience of more than a billion people, while the LISW23 official website handled more than 30 million hits. Social media during the week was flooded with the hashtag #LISW23 as the maritime community shared its news and views.
LISW23 concluded with a glittering Gala Dinner (pictured) attended by 1500 people at Evolution London in Battersea Park. Hosting for the first time, this impressive location, together with the first-ever LISW After Party, proved popular with delegates, who were also able to return to London via a fleet of specially chartered Thames Clipper Uber Boats, kindly sponsored by ShipMoney. The Gala Dinner also raised much-needed funds for the four official LISW23 maritime charities.
Reviewing a phenomenally successful week, Sean Moloney, co-founder of London International Shipping Week said: “The strength of London International Shipping Week is bringing together industry leaders from across the globe to examine in detail the most crucial issues facing international shipping and world trade. This 2023 LISW, in our tenth anniversary year, surpassed all expectations.”
LISW co-founder Llewellyn Bankes-Hughes added: “What a week this was, and definitely the most international of the six LISWs that we’ve held so far. It was excellent to see so many industry decision makers networking at the myriad of events and amazing venues throughout the week. Roll on LISW25!”
A positive year for hull underwriters but change is on the horizon, says IUMI
Global ocean hull premiums rose in 2022 by 5.7% to reach USD8.4 billion. This was largely due to a combination of growing activity, increased vessel values and reduced market capacity. Claims for the same period remained moderate although early 2023 has witnessed a modest increase. Taken together, this has had a positive impact on overall loss ratios that have enjoyed a downward trend for the past three years with 2022 ratios starting out at the lowest point since 2015.
Despite this relatively good news, inflation is likely to have a significant affect going forward. Ilias Tsakiris, Chair of IUMI’s Ocean Hull Committee explains: “During the post-Covid period, there was a scarcity of materials such as steel coupled with an increase in their demand following the re-activation of global shipping. This was exacerbated by rising inflationary pressure, which has driven up the costs of materials, shipyards, and labour.
“From an underwriting perspective, inflation has not only been applicable to vessel repairs and claims but also to general office overheads. In the main, the underwriting community has not applied inflationary increases to the premium base and this may lead to a reduction in overall profitability over the coming year or two.”
Aside from inflation, three other key issues are currently demanding attention from hull insurers.
Firstly, Alternative fuels. Looming 2050 targets for greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions; newbuilding projects focusing on dual-fuel systems; evolving IMO guidelines; and international sustainability initiatives, are the key drivers for the industry’s search for viable alternative fuel technology solutions. In the interim, hybrid technologies such as hydrogen/fossil fuel or ammonia/fossil fuel are likely to be employed until a fully clean and workable solution is developed.
Ilias Tsakiris explains the implications for hull underwriters: “Emission reduction technologies are inevitably more sophisticated than the current methods of ship propulsion. This will increase the value of the global fleet and, consequently, the level of risk to be covered. The rapid implementation of these technologies aligned with decarbonization and GHG emissions, particularly where new fuel blends may be used with current engines, will give rise to new risks.
“Adequate regulations will need to be in place to ensure the safety of those who operate the new ships as well as the vessels themselves. Of course, this also means that we need to train the global seafaring work force accordingly.”
He continued: “We must also remember that shipping doesn’t exist in isolation. Vessels call at ports across the globe and adequate infrastructure must be in place to support these new technologies – and that is much easier said than done. The world is not equal and some regions will struggle.”
“Getting to net-zero will require a joined-up effort, not just from the shipping community but also from the many related land-based sectors, including refineries and oil companies. The world must work together if a workable solution is to be achieved.”
Secondly, Lithium-ion (Li-ion) batteries / electric vehicles (EVs). Fires on containerships and car carriers are becoming more common and many of these vessels are now carrying li-ion batteries or transporting EVs.
“A notable recent incident in July 2023 was a fire on a Panamanian-registered car carrier the Fremantle Highway off the Dutch coast. Although the cause of the blaze remains unknown, it took days to finally control the fire. Out of the more than 3,700 cars on that ship, nearly 500 of them were electric vehicles,” said Ilias Tsakiris.
A major concern relating to Li-ion batteries is the potential for 'thermal runaway’, a chemical reaction which causes rapid heating, fire and sometimes an explosion. However, fires from EVs are no more common than those from conventional internal combustion engine vehicles. Traditional fuels such as petrol and diesel also carry substantial potential danger but the maritime industry has acquired sufficient experience to manage those risks effectively and it must do the same for this new technology.
Ilias Tsakiris continued: “Earlier this month, IUMI released a position paper on ‘Best practice & recommendations for the safe carriage of electric vehicles (EVs)”’ emphasizing the importance of early fire detection; the installation of drencher and CO2 extinguishing systems; and the establishment of well-defined cargo acceptance protocols. An issue requiring particular consideration is the charging of EVs on ropax vessels, contingent on comprehensive risk assessments and the implementation of appropriate safety measures."
Thirdly, the so-called ‘dark fleet’ is another growing threat for insurers, especially since the invasion of Ukraine and the sanctions regime. The global maritime industry faces significant challenges due to the proliferation of aging vessels, identity-shifting ships owned by dubious entities, and questionable classification societies. These trends also raise concerns about potential criminal activities and money laundering. Issues of accountability and traceability in accidents involving the dark fleet and responsibility for wreck removal, pollution response, ship-to-ship transfers of oil, and compensation for victims all remain unclear.
Many report that Russia is managing to bypass insurance regulations, with approximately 20% of the global tanker fleet avoiding sanctions. It is worth mentioning that the sanctions and the invasion of Ukraine have driven certification providers, engine-makers, and insurers away from sanctioned oil carriers, at the cost of further reducing oversight.
“There were eight incidents involving sanctioned oil tankers reported in 2022, including the destructive explosion of the aframax tanker Pablo which caught fire in Malaysian waters in May and left three crew members missing”, said Ilias Tsakiris. “Because this ship was part of the 600-strong ‘dark fleet’, salvors were not able to board. Fortunately, there was no other vessel involved but had this been a collision, or a ship-to-ship transfer, it would have been a completely different story. As it stands, the burnt-out wreck remains at anchor and the owners are impossible to contact, leaving the authorities with a significant headache.”
At the IMO, the Legal Committee noted that a global fleet of between 300 and 600 tankers, primarily comprised of older ships, including some not inspected recently, operating with AIS transponders turned off, having substandard maintenance, unclear ownership and a severe lack of insurance, is currently operating as a ‘dark fleet’ or ‘shadow fleet’ to circumvent sanctions, increasing the risk of oil spills and collisions.
Facilitating digital collaboration with the introduction of Dualog® Seafarer
In response to the evolving needs of the shipping industry to better connect with ship staff, we are thrilled to unveil our latest innovation, Dualog® Seafarer—a groundbreaking service empowering shipping companies and their crewing departments to implement enhanced crew communication and management strategies.
The maritime landscape has seen significant transformations in recent times, with the need for seamless communication and efficient crew management at the forefront and with crew welfare and crew retention as central key performance indicators. Recognising these challenges, Dualog® Seafarer emerges as a solution that addresses the pain points faced by shipping companies, providing all crew members with trustworthy corporate digital identities. This will bring unprecedented cohesion, security, and productivity to crew engagement.
Unified Communication Solution for Maritime Excellence
Dualog® Seafarer serves as a bridge that connects your company with its ship staff, ensuring that corporate communication is no longer fragmented. Gone are the days of relying on private, non-verified email addresses for sensitive business communication. Dualog® Seafarer provides all ship staff with individual email addresses under a single corporate domain. The service delivers a streamlined and professional means of engagement while creating a sense of belonging that enhances crew satisfaction.
Log in Once, Work Everywhere
Navigating through a multitude of portals has been an administrative headache for crewing departments and IT personnel. Dualog® Seafarer’s digital identity brings single sign-on (SSO) capabilities to remedy this challenge. Ship staff can now access all relevant portals with a single set of credentials, eliminating the inconvenience of multiple login IDs while enhancing security and compliance with industry regulations.
Enhanced Cybersecurity and Data Control
The maritime industry demands rigorous cybersecurity measures. Dualog® Seafarer reinforces enterprise-grade cybersecurity within its platform, offering the ability to enforce two-factor/multi-factor authentication (2FA/MFA) policies for heightened protection.
Companies are given exceptional security when they implement Dualog® Seafarer as they automatically benefit from the protection offered by MailDefence, Dualog's state-of-the-art email scanner already protecting many of the world's leading shipping companies. This addresses concerns surrounding account security, data mining, and phishing attacks while ensuring that companies have control over sensitive data.
Seamless Crew Management System Integration
A seamless workflow is essential for efficient crew management. Dualog® Seafarer supports this by effortlessly integrating with existing Crew Management Systems (CMS). This integration ensures that information flows flawlessly between systems, enhancing coordination and simplifying administrative processes for management and ship staff.
"We understand the intricacies of crew communication in the maritime industry. Dependence on private, unverified email accounts for official correspondence and work messages raises significant security concerns. Dualog® Seafarer provides each crew member with a dedicated and verified digital identity, introducing a new era of efficient communication and easy access to vital digital tools. Beyond security and professionalism, it's about empowering our seafaring colleagues," explains Mikael Johannessen, Product Manager at Dualog.
To learn more about this groundbreaking solution, visit dualog.com/seafarer.
-end-
WinGD collaborates with KSS Line for ammonia-fuelled gas carriers
Swiss marine power company WinGD has signed a memorandum of understanding with KSS Line to explore X-DF-A engines for future newbuild projects. The companies will focus on 52cm- and 62cm-bore versions of the dual-fuel ammonia engines, suitable for midsize and very large gas carriers (VLGC). The agreement is the latest of several collaborations under which WinGD is working with experts from across key shipbuilding locations and vessel segments to develop its ammonia capabilities.
The scope of the cooperation will extend beyond engine technology, also focusing on the performance and maintenance solutions necessary for using alternative fuel. The partners will also explore how deep insights into the engine performance can be provided through the deployment of WinGD’s Integrated Digital Expert (WiDE), enabling fuel efficiency fine tuning and live 24x7 support from engine experts.
The agreement also includes a commitment from WinGD to deliver crew training for new engines. The company is building significant experience in equipping crew for safe and reliable ammonia-fuelled engine operations, having agreed in June to develop and support the implementation of a training syllabus for AET Tankers and maritime academy Akademi Laut Malaysia.
Volkmar Galke, Director Sales, WinGD said: “Ammonia as fuel is an interesting prospect for gas carrier vessels that already carry ammonia as cargo. The combination of our rigorously tested new engine design, training support and real-time optimisation via WiDE will mean that KSS Line can be confident that early experience with ammonia-fuelled vessels will be translated into safe and reliable operation in the long-term.”
Chando Park, CEO, KSS Line said: “KSS Line aims to decarbonise its fleet rapidly and has already made significant investments in smart ships, LPG-fuelled and methanol-fuelled technology. Exploring ammonia as a fuel is the next step. The project with WinGD gives us the technical support we will need to successfully apply this new fuel type to our forthcoming newbuilds.”
WinGD is due to begin validation of its ammonia-fuelled engine concept on single and multi-cylinder test engines, in Winterthur and Shanghai, later this year. The validation tests follow combustion concept testing that began in 2021, in concert with simulation and rig tests to understand the emissions characteristics and injection requirements of ammonia fuel.
The X-DF-A engine, like its methanol-fuelled counterpart X-DF-M, will operate on a high-pressure Diesel-cycle combustion process, with liquid ammonia fuel injection supported with a low portion of pilot fuel.
South East Asia cadets all set for unique Sailors’ Society virtual conference
Thousands of cadets are set to attend Sailors' Society's Wellness at Sea Maritime Schools' Conference for South East Asia on Saturday (September 23).
The unique virtual conference, sponsored by The TK Foundation and Inmarsat, is the second of four 2023 conferences for cadets run by the international maritime charity.
Each conference agenda is bespoke to the region, with top industry and mental health experts from across the industry addressing key issues for the cadets - including trends shaping career opportunities for young shipping professionals, technology and mental health.
There is also a whole section dedicated to diversity, sponsored by Seaspan, and interactive sessions for everyone to get involved.
At the first conference this year, held for cadets across North Asia last month, 98 per cent said they would recommend the conference to fellow cadets and that it had better prepared them for a life at sea.
Peter Broadhurst, SVP, Safety & Regulatory at Inmarsat Maritime said: "Inmarsat recognizes the paramount importance of supporting cadets at the outset of their maritime careers.
“Together with Sailors' Society, we are committed to equipping the next generation of maritime professionals with the knowledge and tools they need to navigate the challenges and opportunities of the industry, and the role connectivity plays in life at sea. Together, we are chartering the course for a brighter and more resilient future at sea.”
This year's online events deliver the full virtual experience from a lobby and auditorium to interactive sessions and booths mimicking physical stands found at trade shows and exhibitions.
The conference programme will continue with Africa on October 12 and, for the first time, the UK's maritime colleges on November 9.
A full agenda for the South East Asia conference and a list of all the speakers can be found at https://www.sailors-society.org/msc-south-east-asia-agenda
Bureau Veritas invests in software innovator OrbitMI
Bureau Veritas and OrbitMI, the New York-based maritime software company, have announced a strategic collaboration cemented by Bureau Veritas investing in OrbitMI. Aimed at accelerating the development of both existing and new data-driven solutions, the collaboration will leverage combined strengths to address the dual opportunities of the digital transformation and the decarbonization of shipping.
Bureau Veritas’ Marine & Offshore division and OrbitMI will address clients’ immediate regulatory and decarbonization requirements posed by CII, EU ETS and the recently enacted FuelEU standards, as well as their longer-term digital transformation journey.
Matthieu de Tugny (pictured, right) , President, Marine & Offshore at Bureau Veritas, said: “We are linking the interests of operators and charterers in ship and fleet performance with our technical expertise, insight, and classification activities. This expanding role is deeply intertwined with data monitoring and the implementation of digital solutions. Additionally, as a world leader in audit and certification across multiple industries, Bureau Veritas brings unique insight, an unparalleled global footprint, and a high level of trust from our customers.”
Ali Riaz (pictured, let), CEO of OrbitMI, said: “This collaboration is a significant affirmation, from a long-established maritime institution and global testing, inspection and certification giant, of OrbitMI’s expertise in digital innovation and our strategy to operationalize data through the Orbit platform into intelligent connected workflows across pre-fixture, fixture and post fixture.”
Improving performance requires that people can make the most-informed decisions in the context of their day-to-day responsibilities. To do so, OrbitMI pursues ‘transformation without disruption’ allowing its pure software-as-a-service platform, Orbit, to be easily integrated with shipping companies’ existing systems and business processes. Consequently, Orbit transforms data into insights that individuals and teams can use to enhance the tasks they do every day, whether on ship or on shore.
With BV, a highly regarded partner, OrbitMI will further strengthen its platform with high-quality and trustworthy data, based on solid data science. This will enable future-proof solutions that can expand to address the challenges the maritime industry faces today and those that it will face longer term.
‘Collaboration, Collaboration, collaboration’ the three Cs needed to help us meet the future, says Weathernews
The message was loud and clear at Weathernews Inc’s ‘Explore the Future of Maritime Operations’ cruise reception during London International Shipping Week, with unanimous agreement that joining forces in constructive, transparent partnerships is the only way the shipping industry can successfully navigate urgent challenges both today and tomorrow.
With London’s spectacular riverside as a backdrop, the networking event onboard the London Rose gathered industry leaders and experts from around the world, sparking crucial discussions on the importance of collaboration and knowledge sharing to solve present and future challenges. Weathernews also took the opportunity to officially launch its pioneering Sea Navigator operational optimization platform.
WNI meteorologist and Head of Sales and Marketing Americas, Jesse Vecchione, delved into the profound effects of climate change on weather patterns and the consequences for forecast accuracy and voyage optimization. “Shipping is, of course, not isolated in facing these challenges. To effectively and adapt to changing climate conditions requires a clearer and faster global effort involving both individuals and the whole of society, companies and industries,” he said.
“For me, the major takeaway is the urgent need for collective action, and at Weathernews, we’re actively contributing to this global effort. We've been actively engaged in ESG topics, including TCFD frameworks, for our Japanese supporters, and now we're excited to expand our international efforts in the same direction. We see synergies between these broader disclosures and industry-specific regulations like IMO and EU-ETS. As a result, we're actively exploring opportunities in these areas as well.”
Showcasing Weathernews’ commitment to maritime safety and excellence, Marine Group Operations General Manager (Europe and Americas), Amy Buhl (pictured), explored the power of this pioneering technique that equips shipping companies to adapt and mitigate the impacts of climate change.
“Operational challenges and uncertainties are increasing as extreme weather events and wave energy disruptions become more frequent. Leveraging quantitative analysis of climate change risks, advanced technologies for predicting extreme weather and state-of-the-art visualization techniques, we can proactively manage voyage risks and help shipping companies achieve optimization effectively,” she said. The big lesson here is to embrace big data and make it work to enhance safety and operational efficiency, safeguarding both assets and crew wellbeing.
Niels Kjærgaard, Director of European Business Development, and Senior Sales Manager Ioannis Sideris took to the podium to launch the Sea Navigator platform, which is purpose-designed to simplify operational management and empower vessel operators with real-time insights. Offering customization options, risk mitigation and revenue maximization tools, it addresses the pressing environmental concerns of the industry by facilitating active emissions reduction and supporting shipping companies’ green agendas.
“It’s a ground-breaking solution that marks a significant step towards streamlining operations while increasing profitability and promoting environmental responsibility. We’re also very focused on continuous improvement and our customers are our greatest source of feedback,” said Kjærgaard.
He added that Sea Navigator has been exhaustively tested by customers in the field and proven to save significant amounts of CO2 emissions, time and fuel consumption.
Summing up the event, Paresh Parekh, Head of Business Development in UK at Weathernews, says that although the collaboration message isn’t new, it needs to be repeated time and time again.
“Our objective was to create a space where clients, business partners and colleagues could meet and share insights to address the daily challenges they face. To say that I was impressed by the enthusiasm and the depth of those conversations is an understatement. Everyone agrees that cooperation and joint industry partnerships are vital to unleash the creativity we need to secure maritime sustainability,” he said.
Svitzer appoints Mattias Hellstrom as new Global Chief Commercial Officer
Towage specialist Svitzer has announced the appointment of Mattias Hellstrom (pictured) as its new Global Chief Commercial Officer (CCO), effective from 1 October. Mattias makes the move to Svitzer’s global business after three years as CCO of Svitzer Europe, and replaces outgoing Global CCO Videlina Georgieva, who was recently appointed Managing Director of Svitzer Australia.
As CCO of Svitzer Europe, Mattias has played a key role in the organisation’s drive to become more customer centric, data driven and focused on quality service delivery. He will transfer this experience into his new role as Global CCO, and as part of Svitzer’s leadership team continue developing and driving the company’s global commercial strategy.
Prior to his role as CCO of Svitzer Europe, Mattias was Managing Director of Svitzer Scandinavia for nearly seven years. Mattias has also held management roles at Mediterranean Shipping Company (MSC) and A.P. Moller – Maersk. In all, Mattias has more than 25 years of shipping industry experience to draw upon in the role as Global CCO.
Speaking on the appointment, Kasper Nilaus, CEO, Svitzer, said: “I am delighted to be able to appoint a strong internal candidate for the extremely important Global CCO position at Svitzer. With his first-hand experience from Svitzer Europe, Mattias brings a deep knowledge of our business and customers.
“Mattias’ sincere passion for our customers and focus on premium service delivery will be critical to ensuring our ongoing growth and strength in the market. I look very much forward to working more closely with Mattias and seeing him thrive in his new role.”
Mattias Hellstrom, Svitzer’s new Global CCO, added: “I am honoured to take up the position as Svitzer’s Global CCO at such an important time for our business. Building on the foundation laid by my predecessor, I will do my utmost to ensure that we continue to deliver a world-class service. I am excited to be able to work with colleagues from around the world to continue developing our ability to listen deeply to our customers, and use the knowledge gained to meet their current and future marine services needs.”
Svitzer has already initiated the process of recruiting a replacement for Mattias Hellstrom in the role as Svitzer Europe CCO.
HEMEXPO signs MoU with Greek Exporters Association (SEVE)
Hellenic Marine Equipment Manufacturers and Exporters – a leading suppliers and exporters association for the international shipping sector, has signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with the Greek Exporters Association (SEVE).
Signed during the Thessaloniki International Fair on Friday 15 September by Mr. Symeon Diamantidis, President SEVE, and HEMEXPO President, Ms. Eleni Polychronopoulou (pictured), the MoU establishes a general framework of cooperation for the organizations to enhance their export orientation and strengthen their collective position in the international market.
As part of the agreement, which was originally discussed at the SEVE Export Summit VII in 2019, HEMEXPO and SEVE aim to:
- Support outward orientation, promotion, training, and certification of industry businesses, as well as business networking (B2B) and their connection with foreign markets.
- Highlight Greek manufacturing and industry as a strategic business partner at the international level.
- Strengthen research and development in export sectors, as well as the transfer of industrial training to create a large pool of highly specialised labour.
During the signing, Mr. Diamantidis emphasized the pivotal role played by both organizations in the Greek economy. He pointed out that one of their common characteristics is the exceptional prospects presented by the sectors they represent. Furthermore, he highlighted how these prospects could be transformed into reality, resulting in high growth rates for the member companies of both organizations and increased added value for the Greek economy.
Ms. Polychronopoulou said: "I am very excited about the opportunity for Greek Manufacturers of Maritime Equipment to work closely with the Association of Greek Exporters, SEVE. Both organizations share the same primary focus – a business orientation that prioritises foreign markets. The goal is to boost the country's exports and I firmly believe that the memorandum we signed will yield tangible results in both the short and long term.
“The two organizations will also address a crucial issue facing the country's productive sectors today, which is the lack of a sufficient number of highly specialized professionals. This shortage is a feature of almost every sector of the economy and must be addressed urgently."
The International Foundation for Aids to Navigation (IFAN) is pleased to confirm the sale of its offshore support vessel (OSV), the OSV Relume
OSV Relume is a 66-berth International Maritime Organization (IMO) Class 2 Dynamic Positioning (DP2) vessel and Special Purpose Ship (SPS), equipped to support the latest marine survey technology.
She has played an important role in supporting the work of the Middle East Navigation Aids Service (MENAS), a subsidiary of IFAN, in the Middle East Gulf. She was commissioned in the Netherlands and entered service as a light tender serving the maritime community and gained an enviable reputation as a combined offshore/multi-role OSV. During her time with IFAN/MENAS, she has been employed on both short and long-term contracts in the oil and gas industry and the emerging renewables sector.
Acknowledging the important service undertaken by the vessel over the past 19 years, Peter Stanley, CEO of IFAN, said the sale was necessary because IFAN wanted to concentrate on its two core activities, namely the provision of Aids to Navigation (AtoN) services in the Middle East Gulf through its MENAS branch office in Bahrain and the support of international projects for the enhancement of safety through the provision of aids to navigation.
“The Relume was originally built in 2004 for the support of AtoN work in the Middle East Gulf but due to the rapid advancement of AtoN technology, it quickly became underutilised and was re-positioned to make a positive contribution to IFAN through commercial trading. As has been reported in the annual accounts, IFAN chose to follow this strategy and keep the option of further AtoN work open but now the market conditions are right to realise a reasonable value seen by an alternative owner.
“She has built up an enviable reputation for operational reliability in the NW Europe Oil & Gas/Renewables sector and this is purely down to the quality of the asset and the significant experience of the long-standing crew. We would like to acknowledge the fine service seen from the crew and technical support staff over the past 19 years and wish the new owners every success with the Relume in the new phase of her career,” he said.
IUMI calls for industry-wide cooperation and knowledge sharing on road to net-zero
The recently revised greenhouse gas (GHG) reduction strategy adopted by the IMO’s Marine Environment Protection Committee (MEPC) in July is fully supported by the International Union of Marine Insurance (IUMI). The new strategy calls for shipping to achieve net-zero GHG emissions around 2050 with at least a 20% reduction by 2030 and at least a 70% reduction by 2040 (from a 2008 baseline).
Marine underwriters will play a pivotal role in the pursuit of net-zero as new technologies give rise to new risks which will need to be understood and insured. This will require full industry cooperation as Helle Hammer (pictured), Chair or IUMI’s Policy Forum, explained at the body’s annual conference being held this week in Edinburgh.
“Compliance with this ambitious new strategy will fall mainly on the shoulders of the shipowners but they will be fully supported by the marine insurance community who will underwrite much of the risk,” Ms. Hammer said. “Therefore, there needs to be comprehensive cooperation and knowledge sharing between owners, class, flag states, underwriters and others.
“This will be particularly important as the first movers begin implementing new technologies which will then, inevitably, be taken up by the remainder of the industry. It will be essential for a comprehensive regulatory regime to be in place before the bulk of the fleet starts to comply.”
Work on creating a safety roadmap is already underway at IMO which will identify the challenges and discuss potential solutions. IUMI co-sponsored this initiative - which was spearheaded by the International Association of Classification Societies (IACS) - and will be involved in its continuing development. Guidelines for the safe use of ammonia and hydrogen as propulsion technologies have already been published and most class societies have issued a range of relevant notations. However, it will be important for holistic regulations to be in place which must also place a heavy emphasis on crew safety.
Helle Hammer continued: “Protecting the environment is essential but so is protecting the welfare and safety of our seafarers. We should ensure that environmental and crew safety initiatives are progressed simultaneously to ensure those at sea are not compromised in any way. At the same time, we need to recognise that significant and new training programmes will need to be implemented to ensure our seafarers are fully trained and compliant with the new technologies and can operate them safely.”
Ms. Hammer concluded: “We will face many challenges and unknowns as we move to net-zero and, as an industry, we must work together to ensure people are kept safe and the environment is protected. New risks must be understood, insured and mitigated; and underwriters are likely to seek more information outside their loss records as a result.”
Angelicoussis tanker becomes first dual fuel VLCC certified by Green Award
LNG dual fuel powered very large crude carrier Antonis I. Angelicoussis is now certified by the Green Award Foundation. The Greek-flagged ship is the first LNG dual fuel VLCC to join the Green Award programme.
The certification includes the Green Award greenhouse gas labels CO2 (level 1) and CH4. The 330-metre-long and 60-metre-wide tanker, with a DWT of 320,916 tons, sets a course in its sector towards energy transition.
The Antonis I. Angelicoussis is managed by Maran Tankers Management, the oil shipping arm of Greece’s Angelicoussis Group (which has over 140 ships). The Angelicoussis Group has been participating in the Green Award programme for over 27 years. In recent years three Maran Tankers managed oil tankers were certified by Green Award, as well as four LNG tankers operated by sister company Maran Gas Maritime.
Earlier this year the Antonis I. Angelicoussis was delivered to Maran Tankers Management, followed by sisterships Maria A. Angelicoussis, Maran Danae and Maran Dione in recent months. All four LNG dual fuel ships, built by Samsung Heavy Industries in South Korea, are part of Maran Tanker’s fleet expansion programme, which also includes eight new build LNG dual fuel Suezmax tankers on order. The four VLCCs are claimed to be the lowest emission, most environmentally friendly in the world today.
The Green Award Foundation recognised the potential of LNG to bring immediate emissions reduction versus conventional fuel oil, with the option to evolve towards net zero emission through the use of bio- or synthetic LNG. For that in 2022 it has introduced special greenhouse gas labels to strengthen Green Award’s approach towards decarbonisation and emissions reduction within its mission to recognise ships that take roles as front-runners.
Green Award certified ships can benefit from financial and non-financial incentives awarded by ports, service providers and suppliers. For oil tankers 37 ports give discounts on port dues, ranging from 3 to 15 percent. In total the Green Award seagoing programme is supported by over 180 incentive providers worldwide.
Opsealog report highlights the potential of digitalisation to drive OSV fuel efficiency
A new white paper published by maritime performance management expert Opsealog has shed light on the central role of data in boosting fuel efficiency and reducing greenhouse gas emissions from offshore support vessel (OSV) operations.
The report details a series of recommendations that can help operators secure immediate gains in fuel efficiency and reduce the carbon impact of their offshore activities. It also reveals how a good data management framework can lay the groundwork of a longer-term programme of change, underpinned by data-driven evidence and insights.
The white paper sets out five practical steps that OSV operators can take to secure improvements in the fuel efficiency of their offshore operations through better data analytics:
- Mapping their existing data environment to identify any limitations and assess what improvements can be achieved with the data already available.
- Understanding the data analysis process and the importance of human oversight.
- Identifying clear goals for greater efficiency, with specific KPIs to measure progress.
- Ensuring that the deployment of digital solutions is a collaborative process, as getting the digital transition right is as much about organisational and cultural changes as it is about technology.
- Managing ongoing change, as regulation and data processes continue to evolve throughout the energy transition.
With case studies drawn from Opsealog’s eight years of experience across the world’s offshore markets, combining data integration and human expertise to deliver over 170,000 tonnes of CO2 savings, the research highlights how having detailed digital monitoring in place helps owners, fleet managers and captains gain insights on how to adjust operations to improve efficiency, reduce their carbon footprint, and control operational costs. It reveals how this digital foundation enabled ADNOC Logistics & Services to achieve a 12% reduction in fuel consumption and emissions, and delivered a 10% gain in fuel efficiency for Brunei Shell Petroleum.
This report comes as the offshore sector faces growing pressure to reduce its environmental footprint, from regulators as well as industry stakeholders, while market and finance challenges are leading owners to reconsider their fleet composition and location. For fleet managers, having detailed monitoring in place helps them gain insights on how to adjust operations to improve efficiency, reduce their carbon footprint and control operational costs.
Arnaud Dianoux, Managing Director of Opsealog, said: “This new report shows that good data management is not just a ‘nice to have’, but a necessity for the offshore sector. It will be essential to enable companies to remain competitive, especially at a time when regulatory and market forces are driving the industry to slash greenhouse gas emissions and extend the lifetime of vessels.
“There is a fortunate correlation between fuel efficiency and GHG emissions reductions, which allows charterers’ commercial ambitions to align with wider environmental concerns. Therefore, it is a highly practical, common-sense approach to make better use of the data assets that in many cases already exist, in order to improve operational performance. This also helps companies prepare for the regulation ahead and enables them to progress with confidence.”
The full white paper is available to download on the company’s website.
Posidonia launches masterclass in Shipping online course
Posidonia Exhibitions, organisers of the biennial Posidonia event in Athens, is launching the Posidonia Masterclass in Shipping online course, available at www.PosidoniaMasterclass.com.
The Posidonia Masterclass in Shipping, powered by Naftika Chronika, is an online educational platform that delivers a series of pre-recorded lectures, delivered by distinguished shipowners, managers and executives, providing a comprehensive overview of the shipping industry.
The course is addressed to corporate executives, students and individuals embarking on a career in shipping, seeking a better understanding of the industry for their career development.
The Posidonia Masterclass in Shipping offers a hands-on analysis of this challenging industry, as leading professionals from across the shipping industry share their ‘on the job’ experience and knowledge. Each Masterclass module is comprised of presentations addressing specific industry topics. It is available to both individuals and companies providing education to new recruits.
Theodore Vokos, Managing Director, Posidonia Exhibitions SA, commented: “In the last few years we have witnessed an ever-increasing number of professionals from other sectors joining the shipping industry. Many, without a maritime background, working in banking and financial services, the legal and regulatory community and a variety of other related areas, find themselves working for a shipping company or transferred to units within their organisations involved in supporting shipping industry clients and projects. As the industry grows in size and reach, new skills are required and professionals with different skill sets will join the industry.
“The Posidonia Masterclass in Shipping aims to provide new entrants and professionals considering such a career move with the basic fundamentals, which will empower them and assist them in making the right decisions.”
The programme includes 11 modules presented by a total of 35 speakers and will also be open to young graduates aspiring to a career in shipping, providing insight and presenting the job opportunities available. The course examines each sector of this industry, as well as the disciplines within each sector and their impact on investment and operational decisions, and explores technologies that will shape the industry in the years to come.
Dr. George Pateras, President, Hellenic Chamber of Shipping, commented: “The Posidonia Masterclass in Shipping is an important tool which will help the industry attract and integrate new professionals of all ages. While shipping is continuously evolving and facing new challenges, including decarbonisation and digitalisation just to name a few, education will play an increasingly crucial role. New needs arise constantly, and our industry will have to bring in new people from other sectors.
“We hope that the Posidonia Masterclass in Shipping can serve as a beacon to inspire and attract young talent.”
Upon completion of the Posidonia Masterclass in Shipping, participants will receive a certificate of attendance signed by Posidonia and will also have access to recommended material for further reading.
The Posidonia Masterclass in Shipping project is supported by AEGEAS Non-Profit Civil Company, the Eugenides Foundation and the Aikaterini Laskarides Foundation, powered by Naftika Chronika and developed by SQ Learn e-learning experts.
Dry bulk trade volumes positive but prospects hold downside risks says MSI
The unwinding of supply chain inefficiencies and rising vessel orders are set to dampen positive deadweight demand in the dry bulk market according to Maritime Strategies International.
COVID-related supply chain inefficiencies and associated port congestion have almost fully unwound and while the MSI outlook on the prospects for trade volumes this year is considered positive, growth in actual dwt demand is limited to only 0.25% year on year.
MSI’s Q3 Dry Bulk market report notes that while this quarter’s demand forecasts for 2023 is higher by 1m dwt, its fleet supply estimates climb by 2.2m dwt, leading to slight downward revisions in utilisation rates and earnings.
In line with MSI’s forecast for the relative strength in trade volumes to continue into next year, it expects vessel demand to increase by 14m dwt in 2024. This represents an increase of 7.3m dwt in required tonnage from the previous MSI Base Case forecast and reflects the higher trade volumes anticipated as an expected eventual recovery in both China’s and Europe’s industrial activity comes to fruition.
However, the impact on the market will be muted as MSI raises its forecast for available fleet supply by 14m dwt year-on-year on the back of increased contracting and lower-than-expected scrapping activity.
The improved outlook expected over the medium term in MSI’s Base Case is also underpinned by a low orderbook and relatively low contracting activity, both of which are now coming under threat.
Contracting for new vessels picked up in Q2 2023 as owners continued to upgrade their fleets with modern tonnage in anticipation of increasingly stringent environmental regulations ahead. Newbuilding orders totalled 6.5m dwt in Q2 2023, bringing total contracting in the first half of 2023 to an aggregate 14.1m dwt.
“Given the positive direction of trade volumes in 2023, owners could be excused for feeling disappointed in the evolution of the freight market, where vessel earnings have languished,” said Plamen Natzkoff (pictured), Associate Director, Dry Bulk Commodities, MSI. “With trade volumes forecast to expand, the fact that freight rates have not responded accordingly is highly instructive to the state of underlying market balances.”
Year-to-date product tanker newbuild contracting hits 10-year high: BIMCO
During the first eight months of 2023, contracting of product tanker newbuilds hit a 10-year high, reaching 140 ships and 10.72 million deadweight tonnes (see Clrksons graph). “The last time more than 10 million DWT were contracted from January through August was in 2013,” says Niels Rasmussen, Chief Shipping Analyst at BIMCO.
Newbuild contracting activity during the past five years has been low at about 5.46 million DWT per year. In addition, the product tanker order book hit a low of 9.67 million DWT in December 2022, the smallest order book since June 2001.
“Due to the low contracting of ships, the fleet has only grown at an average annual rate of 2.6% between 2018 and 2023. Deliveries from the current order book will remain low until 2025 when they are expected to exceed 8 million DWT for the first time since 2009,” says Rasmussen.
Deliveries may end higher as ships can still be contracted for 2025 delivery and beyond.
However, recycling of ships will temper future fleet growth although markets are expected to stay strong through at least 2024. This will incentivise owners to keep ships in operation for longer. In addition, the sanctions on Russian oil product exports by G7 countries appear to have created new trades where the older product tankers remain in demand.
Still, 9% of product tankers, equal to 11.65 million DWT and 6% of the total fleet, are currently more than twenty years old and are prime targets for recycling, not least due to the tightening greenhouse gas emission targets.
“Despite decarbonisation regulations, the share of ships in the order book that are planned to use some type of alternative fuel remains low. Only 16% of the ships and the DWT in the order book are currently expected to be prepared for the use of an alternative fuel,” says Rasmussen.
Decarbonisation’s impact on the demand side must also be a consideration when planning the future fleet. According to estimates by the International Energy Agency, demand for transport fuels will peak in 2026, and though demand for petrochemical feedstock may continue to grow, the overall peak demand may still be within sight.
“Balancing the need for fleet renewal to meet future decarbonisation targets while considering the potential for waning demand due to decarbonisation remains a key challenge when planning new orders,” says Rasmussen.
Launch of Danelec Connect digital platform unlocks new vessel & fleet operational efficiencies
Leading maritime operational and safety technology company Danelec has launched Danelec Connect, a new digital platform designed to boost operational efficiency, safety and sustainability through significantly enriched Ship Performance Monitoring.
The platform was unveiled at the StormGeo Exclusive Shipping Advisory Board APAC in Singapore this week. A powerful cloud- based solution, Danelec’s new software is specifically designed to optimize diverse marine operations and address the many intricacies of vessel, fleet and voyage management.
Danelec Connect is an agnostic platform for extracting operational and business value from automated high-quality data regardless of source or format and across single or multiple vessels. A powerful cloud-based dataspace for storage, analysis, sharing and insight, Danelec Connect powers the maritime sustainability and safety agenda forward with essential new workflows and includes automated reporting to ensure effortless compliance with emission regulations, offering intuitive visuals on fuel consumption, Carbon Intensity Index (CII), and other critical metrics.
Danelec Connect is the culmination of Danelec's acquisition of the Norwegian Ship Performance specialist, Kyma, in late 2021. Leveraging Kyma's Ship Performance Monitoring expertise and Danelec's data-capture capabilities enabled by its market leading Voyage Data Recorders (VDR) and Vessel Remote Server (VRS), Danelec Connect comes from a shared ambition to provide digital access to actionable insights from diverse data for stakeholders across the maritime ecosystem.
Commenting on the launch of the new platform, recently appointed SVP for Danelec Connect, Christian Treu (pictured) said: "Danelec Connect is the result of combining best-in-class technologies and expertise. Kyma's legacy and proficiency within Ship Performance Monitoring and Danelec's maritime data acquisition strengths combine to impact how ship owners manage their fleet with new, more efficient, cost effective and simplified workflows.
“We are at the tipping point of maritime industry digitalization. Shipping may lag behind, but we have seen progress on the digital agenda during the past three years and there is much more potential ahead – especially in noon reporting,” continued Treu. “Today, nearly 70% of all ship owners are exploring digital solutions to bring about operational efficiencies. With that transition, I feel confident that the noon reports will be dead and gone within a matter of a few years.”
Fincantieri to build two new hydrogen-powered ships for MSC's Explora Journeys' fleet
The Cruise Division of MSC Group today confirmed firm orders for two hydrogen-powered vessels for its luxury travel brand Explora Journeys with the Italian shipbuilder Fincantieri and pledged to continue its push towards a net zero-carbon emissions target by 2050 by investigating additional new and advanced environmental technologies for the luxury ships.
The deal completes a total investment of €3.5 billion in six luxury ships for Explora Journeys. The contracts are subject to access to financing as per industry practice.
EXPLORA V and EXPLORA VI will have new state-of-the-art energy efficiency measures and will also be capable of using alternative fuels such as bio and synthetic gas and methanol and the Cruise Division will work in the future with Fincantieri to equip the ships with future technologies including carbon capture, and more advanced waste management systems. The two confirmed additions to Explora Journeys’ fleet will be delivered in 2027 and 2028.
Pierfrancesco Vago, Executive Chairman - Cruise Division, MSC Group, said: “With Explora Journeys we have created a luxury brand that has been successful at redefining luxury at sea. We are seeing continued growth in the luxury segment and the investment in these two new ships shows our commitment to continue to grow within this sector as well as to invest in ships of the future.”
Pierroberto Folgiero, Chief Executive Officer, Fincantieri, said: “This new contract with MSC is a sign of the growing vitality of the cruise sector, in line with what we had predicted. In strategic terms, our future will depend on our ability to lead the evolution of the sector towards all energy and digital transition technologies with the entrepreneurship required to validate, industrialise and commercialise new solutions.”
The two new ships will pursue the use of liquid hydrogen with fuel cells for their hotel operations while docked in ports to eliminate carbon emissions with the vessels’ engines switched off. The ships will also feature a new generation of LNG engines that will further tackle the issue of methane slip with the use of containment systems.
Explora Journeys’ first ship, EXPLORA I was delivered by Fincantieri in July 2023 and is currently operating in Northern Europe. The ship will spend the autumn in North America, and the winter in the Caribbean Sea. She will sail during the spring 2024 off the U.S. West Coast and Hawaii before returning to Europe in summer 2024 for a series of journeys in the Mediterranean Sea.
EXPLORA II will enter service in summer 2024 and operate until April 2025 in the Mediterranean Sea, the Middle East, the Indian Ocean and Africa visiting 82 ports in 26 countries. EXPLORA III will enter service in summer 2026 and construction of LNG-powered EXPLORA IV will begin in January 2024 and will be completed in early 2027.
All six ships in Explora Journeys’ fleet will be equipped with the latest environmental and marine technologies and will also feature the latest selective catalytic reducFon technology to enable a reduction of nitrogen oxide emissions by 90 per cent, be equipped with shore power plug-in connectivity to reduce emissions in port and fitted with underwater noise management systems to help protect marine life.
All six vessels will also have a comprehensive range of onboard energy efficient equipment to optimise engine use to further reduce emissions.
ABB to power Samskip’s new hydrogen-fuelled container vessels
ABB will deliver a comprehensive power, propulsion and automation system for two newbuild short-sea container ships of the global logistics company Samskip Group headquartered in Rotterdam, Netherlands. The vessels will be among the world’s first of their kind to use hydrogen as a fuel. Financial details were not disclosed. The order was booked in the second quarter of 2023.
Built by Cochin Shipyard Ltd, the largest shipbuilding and maintenance facility in India, the 135-metre ships are due for delivery in Q3 and Q4 of 2025, respectively. Both vessels will be operating between Oslo Fjord and Rotterdam, a distance of approximately 700 nautical miles.
In addition to the integration of hydrogen fuel cells, ABB’s comprehensive package includes the new, compact version of ABB Onboard DC Grid™ power distribution system that will ensure the optimal use of energy on board. The vessels will also feature ABB’s energy storage solution control, with the industry-leading automation technology, ABB Ability™ System 800xA, ensuring seamless operation of onboard equipment. Leveraging ABB Ability™ Remote Diagnostic Systems, the vessels will benefit from optimized safety and performance through 24/7 remote support.
Fuel cells turn the chemical energy from hydrogen into electricity through an electrochemical reaction. With the use of renewables to produce the hydrogen, the entire energy chain will be clean. Hydrogen fuel cell technology is considered as one of the most promising solutions to support shipping industry’s decarbonization agenda, with the potential to significantly reduce greenhouse gas emissions and increase energy efficiency.
Samskip’s vessels will be powered by a 3.2 MW hydrogen fuel cell each, with diesel generators installed for back-up. The logistics group, which aims to achieve net-zero by 2040, anticipates that each vessel will be able to avoid around 25,000 tons of CO2 emissions a year when powered by fuel cells and by using green shore power at the port of call. While the ships are setting new standards for environmentally friendly operations, they are expected to perform at the same level as Samskip’s conventional vessels.
The project is in line with the IMO’s revised greenhouse gas reduction strategy, which calls on reaching net-zero GHG emissions from international shipping close to 2050, with a commitment to increase the uptake of low-carbon fuels by 2030.
“ABB is delighted to collaborate with Samskip and Cochin Shipyard Limited on this project which will help to avoid emissions and reduce operational expenses,” said Juha Koskela, Division President, ABB Marine & Ports. “ABB is at the forefront of shipping’s most ambitious plans for decarbonization and setting new standards for green maritime transportation.”
“Samskip’s level of ambition on emissions requires partners like ABB, with similar objectives for innovation and the willingness to invest in the future,” said Erik Hofmeester, Head of Fleet Management, Samskip Group. “These ships are a milestone for the maritime industry, delivering hydrogen fuel cells as a clean and renewable technology.”
“Cochin Shipyard is proud to partner with ABB in strengthening our position as an early mover in sustainable technology and supporting India’s vision to become a Global Hub for building Green Ships,” said Madhu S Nair, Chairman and Managing Director, Cochin Shipyard Limited.
The project is co-funded by Norwegian state enterprise ENOVA. Operating under Norway’s Ministry of Climate and Environment, ENOVA promotes a shift towards more environmentally friendly energy consumption and production, as well as the development of energy and climate technology.
Strong Cyprus presence at high-level European Shipping Summit
The Cyprus Shipping Chamber participated at the European Shipping Summit held on 19 and 20 September 2023, in Brussels through its Director General, Mr. Thomas Kazakos, organised by the European Community Shipowners’ Associations (ECSA) and other European shipping stakeholders.
The Summit which is considered as one of the most important maritime events in Europe, gathered together shipowners, shipping professionals and policy makers of the European and International Shipping to discuss current shipping matters and stress the importance for both the industry and the policy makers to navigate on the same course.
Cyprus was well highlighted through the active involvement of Mr. Philippos Philis, the President of ECSA, who opened the flagship Conference with a speech, stressing the message that "Shipping is a cornerstone of European food, energy and supply-chain security and that Europe needs a strong maritime sector to maintain its global leadership".
During the working deliberations of the Conference, speeches were given by distinguished guests including the Former President of the European Commission, Mr. José Manuel Barroso and the Director-General of DG MOVE, European Commission, Mrs. Magda Kopczynska, showing the importance attached to the Conference, as well as to European Shipping.
In addition, the Cyprus Shipping Chamber, co-organised within the framework of the European Shipping Summit with other shipowner’s associations a side session, entitled “How to increase the share of maritime transport in Europe’s trade”. The discussion involved sharing best practice cases to shift to more maritime transport.
The official opening ceremony of the working deliberations of the flagship Conference, on Wednesday 20 September, made by Mr. Philis, was preceded by a gala dinner earlier on Tuesday, 19 September, at the Royal Museums of Fine Arts of Belgium, during which the European Commission Vice-President, Mr. Margaritis Schinas gave a keynote speech.
Singapore announced top maritime centre for 10th consecutive year
For the 10th year in a row, Singapore ranks first in the Xinhua-Baltic International Shipping Centre Development Index (ISCDI) Report.
Published jointly by Chinese state news agency, Xinhua, and global maritime data provider, Baltic Exchange, the report lists Singapore as the global leading maritime centre, followed by London and Shanghai.
The island nation scored 95.32 out of a possible 100 points, while the maritime support services powerhouse of London scored 83.35 points and the mighty port-city of Shanghai takes third place with 81.58 points.
Singapore has held the top position since the Index began a decade ago. It has retained its position due to its winning combination of strategic location, international outlook and established ecosystem of professional global maritime services and good governance.
London and Shanghai have retained their positions of second and third place within the Index for the past four years.
Further down the top 10, there was little movement as Hong Kong, Dubai, Rotterdam and Hamburg take fourth, fifth, sixth and seventh place, respectively.
The trading capital of New York and its New Jersey port dropped by two places from eighth place last year, to 10th place this year while Athens/Piraeus moved up by one place. A relative newcomer to the Index, Ningbo-Zhoushan, sits at number nine. The Chinese city’s ranking amongst the top 10 is primarily due to it being the busiest port in the world in terms of cargo tonnage.
The main findings of the index were as follows:
- Singapore leads the rankings for the 10th consecutive year followed by London, Shanghai, Hong Kong and Dubai
- Ease of doing business, access to professional maritime services and location remain key ingredients for a leading maritime business hub
- The top 10 locations remain largely unchanged since 2022 and features four Asian, four European, one Middle East and one United States location
A total of 43 maritime locations were rated as part of this report, which considers port factors including cargo throughput, number of cranes, length of container berths and port draught; number of players in professional maritime support businesses such as shipbroking, ship management, ship financing, insurance and law, as well as hull underwriting premiums; and general business environment factors such as customs tariffs, extent of electronic government services and logistics performance.
The average score amongst the top 10 ports is 77.21 out of 100, with the average across the entire 43 rankings standing at 59.19.
Baltic Exchange Chief Executive Officer Mark Jackson said: “It’s been a decade since the Baltic Exchange started working with Xinhua News Agency on this Index and during that time we have witnessed a growing amount of trade move from west to east. This shift in trade flows is clearly visible looking at the Xinhua-Baltic ISCDI top 10 rankings over the past decade.
“This report is a valuable reminder of how intrinsic the maritime industry is to global trade. The best performing maritime centres demonstrate there is more than one way to grow a successful hub – whether borne out of location, encouraged through attractive policies and conditions or creation of a large port cluster. In every instance, collaboration across the various industry players is central to a maritime centre’s growth and prosperity.”
Xu Yuchang of China Economic Information Service, a subsidiary of Xinhua, said: “The report underscores the significance of maritime within world trade, and showcases the depth and breadth of this unique industry. In this 10th report we also spotlight the importance of emission reduction strategies and technologies that will be essential for the long-term sustainable future of the industry. We hope this report highlights the benefits that maritime centres bring to local economies and shines a light on how fundamental shipping is to global prosperity.”
Chief Executive of the Maritime and Port Authority of Singapore, Mr Teo Eng Dih, said: “We thank our international partners, industry, the research and enterprise community, as well as unions for the achievement. Together, our strong tripartite relationship has supported the development of Singapore as the preferred International Maritime Centre.
“We remain committed to fostering an environment that encourages enterprise, innovation, and talent development. We will continue our work with our partners to enhance Singapore's connectivity, advance digitalisation efforts, and accelerate the decarbonisation of international shipping.”
The International Chamber of Shipping opens new Representative Office in Shanghai
Today, the International Chamber of Shipping (ICS), the global trade association for shipowners, which represents over 80% of the world merchant fleet, has announced the inauguration of a new ICS Representative Office in Shanghai.
This strategic move follows the admission of the China Shipowners’ Association as a Full ICS Member in January 2023 and extends the presence of the ICS China Liaison Office which will continue to have a presence in the Hong Kong SAR.
The new ICS office, within the offices of the China P&I Club, is located in the North Bund area of Hongkou District, Shanghai, a prominent global shipping hub.
Guy Platten, Secretary General of the International Chamber of Shipping commented:
“We are delighted to be here today at the opening of our new office in Shanghai and are grateful to the China P&I Club for generously providing the office space. China is a hub for global shipping, with the potential to contribute tremendous growth, and at ICS we recognise the important role that the Chinese maritime sector will continue to play in the global shipping industry and on the international stage.”
“We have many challenges and opportunities ahead for our industry, but we must remember that the shipping industry is global, so only together can we find solutions for a sustainable future. The membership of the China Shipowners’ Association, as part of the ICS family of the world’s national shipowner associations, combined with the opening of our new office in Shanghai signifies a new era of enhanced collaboration and we look forward to continuing to build on this partnership.”
Edward Liu, Principal Representative ICS (China) Liaison Office as well as the Representative Office in Shanghai added: “It is less than one year since the China Shipowners’ Association became a Full ICS Member, and I am delighted that ICS is now opening an office here in Shanghai. I would like to extend my thanks to the Shanghai Municipal Transport Commission and the Hongkou District People’s Government for their invaluable support in making this possible.”
“China’s position as a major maritime power makes our presence in both Shanghai and Hong Kong SAR all the more important, as it further solidifies the collaborative relationship between ICS and China. We look forward to continuing open discussions with the China Shipowners’ Association and the Hong Kong Shipowners’ Association, fostering mutual understanding, and working in partnership as we navigate this exciting time for international shipping.”
The official opening was marked in Shanghai today at the North Bund Forum, a high-level annual maritime event jointly held by China’s Ministry of Transport and the Shanghai Government, attended by senior Chinese industry representatives and Government officials. Former ICS Chairman, Esben Poulsson, ICS Secretary General, Guy Platten, ICS Deputy Secretary General, Simon Bennett, and ICS Principal Representative in China, Edward Liu were all in attendance for the official opening.
West awarded A- rating, stable outlook with AM Best
West P&I has been assigned a Financial Strength Rating of A- (Excellent) and a Long-Term Issuer Credit Rating of “a-” (Excellent) by AM Best. The outlook assigned to these Credit Ratings (ratings) is stable.
AM Best commented on West’s improved underwriting result for the year-ended 20 February 2023 in which the Club achieved a 96.7% combined ratio, the strongest result for the Club since 2017, stating that the improvement in results followed actions taken by management. AM Best commented further that the A- (Excellent) rating reflects West’s “very strong” balance sheet strength which is underpinned by risk-adjusted capitalisation at the strongest level at year-end February 2023, as measured by Best’s Capital Adequacy Ratio.
“There has been a material improvement in West’s technical performance since 20 February 2021 as we continue to strengthen the capital position of the Club and maintain our upward trajectory,” said Tom Bowsher (pictured), Group CEO of West P&I. “We are delighted that this positive progress has been independently recognised by AM Best following a rigorous rating review process that considers both past and prospective performance.”
Mr Bowsher added: “Members’ own claims performance for Policy Year 2023 is better than the last three Policy Years and the Club’s Pool share is the lowest it has been since 2015. This, and a more favourable investment environment, means that the Club’s capital is continuing its improving trend.”
West’s solvency coverage increased to 176% at 20 February 2023 and the Club writes gross premium of c. US$320 million across its diversified portfolio of marine risks.
GTMaritime receives ISO/IEC 27001 certification for information security management systems
Leading provider of secure maritime data communications software, GTMaritime, has received certification to the ISO/IEC 27001 international standard for information security management systems (ISMS).
Defining requirements for an ISMS, ISO/IEC 27001 establishes a holistic approach to information security that encompasses people, policies and technology. Compliance with the standard is evidence that an organisation has created a comprehensive system to assess and manage information security risks, and preserve the confidentiality, integrity and availability of the data it owns and handles on behalf of its clients.
Jamie Jones (pictured), Technical Director, GTMaritime, said: “With maritime cyber-crime on the rise and new threats emerging all the time, ship owners and operators are understandably concerned about the security of their information. ISO/IEC 27001 accreditation is recognition that GTMaritime has implemented a set of effective policies and controls to manage information security and has a continuous improvement culture to adapt and respond to ever changing cyber security risks in a structured manner. For our customers, accreditation provides assurance of our commitment to information security and the protection of the data we process on their behalf.”
GTMaritime’s suite of future-proof data communications solutions is designed with cyber security in mind. The company’s flagship email solution, GTMailPlus, includes several cyber-security features as standard, providing end-to-end encrypted communications and protection against malware, viruses, spam and phishing. GTDeploy, meanwhile, facilitates the deployment of update patches to ensure vessel software is up to date and security compliant.
In addition, GTMaritime offers a choice of specialist cyber-security solutions to suit the user’s budget and service requirements. The ‘Protect’ package provides next-generation anti-virus protection, external device control, reporting and round-the-clock support, while ‘Advanced Defend’ delivers the same features plus an end-point firewall, asset inventory and additional advanced functionality.
Rob Kenworthy, CEO, GTMaritime, said: “Cyber security is in GTMaritime’s DNA and is a recurrent theme throughout our service portfolio. By implementing, maintaining and continually improving an information security management system according to the ISO/IEC 27001 standard, it provides reassurance that we are both committed and able to manage their information securely and safely.”
Seaside LNG joins SEA-LNG enhancing coalition reach and expertise
SEA-LNG, the multi-sector industry coalition established to demonstrate the benefits of the LNG pathway for shipping’s decarbonisation, today welcomes Seaside LNG, the LNG production and maritime transportation logistics providers based in Houston, Texas.
Seaside LNG is the only company with integrated shoreside liquefication, LNG storage, and bunkering capabilities in North America. The company maintains the largest fleet of Jones Act-compliant LNG barges in North America and has successfully performed more than 400 safe LNG transfers. Seaside LNG will further enhance the coalition’s collective expertise with their valuable supply, infrastructure and safety experience.
Scaling up alternative fuel supply and developing the required infrastructure is key to the success of the shipping industry’s decarbonisation transition, with collaboration highlighted as central to success. This has been reiterated in recent industry discussions at Gastech in Singapore and London International Shipping Week. SEA-LNG offers Seaside LNG and all its members a practical platform for collaboration across the entire LNG value chain.
Peter Keller, Chairman of SEA-LNG, commented: “Green fuel solutions will not arrive in a big-bang process, instead we will see the incremental decarbonisation of existing assets as fuel production, transportation, storage and bunkering infrastructure and engine technologies develop. In Seaside LNG, we have another valuable member to help us continue to evolve and progress the LNG pathway to decarbonisation. We are very pleased to welcome the Seaside team onboard.”
Tim Casey, CEO of Seaside LNG, said: “LNG infrastructure must continue to grow rapidly to further develop and maintain a global LNG supply chain. Improving commercial-scale solutions for marine fuel is critical to meeting the industry’s environmental goals while keeping pace with the world’s rising commercial demands. We look forward to joining SEA-LNG as we continue our mission to develop vital LNG infrastructure.”
Existing LNG infrastructure can transport, store and deliver bio-LNG, as well as renewable synthetic e-LNG. Fuels can be blended with fossil LNG or used as a drop-in fuel for LNG-fuelled vessels to reduce emissions further without any additional investment in vessel or infrastructure modifications.
While the recent industry discussions of infrastructure and the introduction of these green fuels are important, we must not overlook existing local emissions benefits. Local emissions are another major environmental concern around the world. LNG is the only scalable marine fuel available today that significantly reduces carbon emissions and it also tackles local emissions.
Casey concluded: “We are proud to join SEA-LNG because LNG in place of traditional fuel delivers substantial environmental and public health benefits – dramatically lowering emissions of NOx, SOx, CO2 and particulate matter.”
Marcura announces senior executive appointments to support strategic growth
Marcura, a leading provider of digital workflow solutions for the maritime sector, is pleased to unveil significant advancements in its leadership team to reinforce its strategic expansion plans.
Dionysis Tzelepis, who joined port cost management company DA-Desk in 2017 and was previously its MD, has been appointed as the new Chief Executive Officer of DA-Desk, a pivotal move aimed at propelling the company forward. With a distinguished career spanning over two decades, Tzelepis brings extensive expertise and leadership to his new role. He will focus on continued customer service, innovation, and optimising the value of DA-Desk's services.
"Dionysis assumes the CEO position with full P&L responsibility and the authority to elevate DA-Desk to new horizons," stated Jens Lorens Poulsen, Marcura's co-founder and Group CEO. "Amongst many other things, he brings years of experience as the CFO of a prominent tanker shipping company, giving him a profound understanding of the intricate financial dynamics that govern ship operations, which translates into invaluable benefits for our clients. On behalf of the board and the entire team, I extend my heartfelt congratulations to him."
Tzelepis is an alumnus of Athens University of Economics and Business, holding a Bachelor's degree in accounting and finance and a Master's in Finance from Henley Business School at Reading University.
Bruno Deszczynski, with over a decade of experience at Marcura, has taken on the role of CEO of PortLog and ClaimsHub, signifying a significant step in Marcura's growth journey. He started in Marcura in software engineering in 2011 and eventually became Group CTO, highlighting his substantial influence on the company's technology landscape and our development of solutions such as PortLog, ClaimsHub and MCaaS, our comprehensive maritime compliance solution.
With more than ten years of hands-on expertise in the complex world of maritime data, AI and digitalisation, Bruno has become a distinguished expert in the field. "Bruno exemplifies our unwavering commitment to digital innovation. He is at the forefront of our data and digital initiatives," noted Jens Poulsen. "In recent months, Bruno has demonstrated remarkable ownership in launching strategic products like PortLog Pro and ClaimsHub."
"These strategic promotions mark our resolute drive towards achieving exceptional performance and value within the industry," shared Jens Poulsen, expressing his optimism for Marcura's future plans.
Leading Brands from crewing sector join Seatrade Maritime CrewConnect Global
Anticipation is growing for Seatrade Maritime CrewConnect Global, which will bring the global crewing and manning industry to Manila for a three-day experience where a curated collection of industry-leading suppliers will have the very best in crewing services, solutions, and products on showcase.
From 21 – 23 November 2023, attendees will have the opportunity to connect with an impressive array of exhibitors, including providers of training, welfare, technology, satellite, administration, and travel services. Influential names including OSM Thome, KONGSBERG, Mintra, Wartsila and Ocean Technologies Group are among those confirmed to feature within the Supplier Showcase at Seatrade Maritime CrewConnect Global.
“As with the general shipping industry, the crewing sector finds itself at a crucial point of development. New, never-before-seen challenges are on the horizon; the traditional method of crew management is now shifting towards requiring a more holistic approach; and the requirements of tomorrow’s seafarer are continuously evolving,” said Chris Morley, Group Director – Seatrade Maritime.
“The Supplier Showcase at Seatrade CrewConnect Global is a unique group of innovators and forward-thinkers, each bringing with them a unique perspective and commitment to driving industry progress. This is a great opportunity for attendees to connect with high quality suppliers, build productive relationships and discover the latest developments,” continued Morley.
In addition to established industry heavyweights, attendees will also discover forward-thinking newcomers and startups within the brand-new ‘New to Show Zone’.
“The New to Show Zone is dedicated to supporting those businesses who are either new to the crewing industry or Seatrade Maritime CrewConnect. I would strongly encourage attendees to explore this area at the event as it features some fantastic names including Onboard Maritime, Port Medical Management and Tilla,” added Morley.
Registration is now open for Seatrade Maritime CrewConnect Global, which will take place 21 – 23 November 2023 at Sofitel Philippine Plaza Manila and feature a three-day conference, supplier Expo and the ever-popular CrewConnect Global Awards. Early bird rates will end on Friday 13 October.
Procureship expands operations to Asia with launch of Singapore office
Procureship, the Athens-based provider of one of the world’s leading e-procurement platforms for marine buyers and suppliers, has made the strategic decision to open a new office in Singapore in a bid to expand operations to more ship owners, managers and operators based in the Asia-Pacific region.
The opening of the new office in Singapore will enable Procureship to offer its e-procurement system, which utilises machine learning (ML) and automation to streamline the entire maritime procurement process, to a wider market and improve its services to ship owners, managers and operators based in Singapore, as well as the broader Asia-Pacific area.
The office will be run by Procureship’s new Head of Sales APAC Prema Muthusamy (pictured), a maritime and procurement specialist with more than 20 years of experience in the Asia-Pacific market including as Head of Sales at Japan Marine Services and VP of Sales at shipping technology company JiBe.
“I am pleased to join Procureship at this exciting time for the company and lead its expanded operations in the Asia-Pacific region,” said Ms. Muthusamy. “Shipping is undergoing a major change when it comes to the adoption of digital systems to improve their operations and it is a testament to Procureship’s system that it is one of the leading digital platforms in the industry.
“I have cross-functional knowledge between buyers and suppliers in the marine procurement sector during my career, so I understand the unique requirements of ship owners looking to improve their procurement processes, drive down costs, and take advantage of the capabilities that digital platforms offer. Procureship provides all of these in a simple package and is leading the way with the use of automation and ML in a way no other procurement provider currently is,” she added.
Grigoris Lamprou, Chief Executive Officer of Procureship, said: “I am excited to welcome Prema to Procureship to lead our office in Singapore. With her tremendous background and overarching understanding of digital platforms for the maritime sector, not to mention her passion for the industry, I am confident she will showcase the benefits of Procureship to ship owners and operators throughout the Asia-Pacific region and expand our co-operation with global maritime buyers and suppliers.”
Procureship already has a number of fleet managers based in Asia using its platform, including Suntech Ship Management, The Great Eastern Shipping Company and Zeaborn Ship Management. The launch of the Singapore office will enable Procureship to work closer with more local ship owners, managers and operators in the region that are looking to enhance their procurement processes.
“Singapore is home to some of the biggest fleets in maritime. Regardless of their size, ship owners and operators are always looking for ways to drive efficiencies and cut costs, particularly when it comes to the critical elements of procurement. Procureship offers a digitally-advanced platform that eliminates hours of manual work, seamlessly connecting marine buyers, suppliers and service providers to make procurement more efficient and cost-effective,” Mr. Lamprou added.
The launch of the company’s office in Singapore follows the opening of Procureship’s operations in Copenhagen, Denmark, in February 2023 as the company tapped into the Northern European market. Procureship has also improved the capabilities of its platform by offering features, such as an IHM documentation compliance, advanced e-invoicing processing and upcoming freight forwarding optimisation, to their users. These features utilise advanced analytics and automation to improve the operational efficiency of the entire procurement process.
IRS hosts impactful events at LISW23, emphasising decarbonisation and the human element
Leading classification society, the Indian Register of Shipping (IRS), participated in London International Shipping Week 2023, demonstrating its commitment to sustainability in the maritime industry. At this global maritime arena, IRS hosted two notable events: a Round Table and a Technical Seminar that gained widespread industry attention and engagement.
The Round Table (pictured) discussion on ‘Seascape 2030 - Decarbonisation and the Human Element’ debated the critical issue of how the transition to a new fuel ecosystem and continuous technological evolution will impact the future workforce. The topic was kicked off by renowned shipping economist Dr Martin Stopford with fellow panellists Savraj Mehta from North Standard, Lee Martindale of Wartsila and Ben Darnton from Halcyon Recruitment sharing insights on the vital role human element will play in developing sustainable technologies and systems. The discussion was moderated by Penny Thomas of Navigate PR.
Additionally, IRS' Technical Seminar which focused on Decarbonisation, Alternate Fuels & Human Element was well received for its content and relevance to the maritime industry's pressing challenges. Guy Platten, Secretary General of the International Chamber of Shipping, delivered a brief address, stressing the importance of these topics for shaping the future of the shipping industry. Vijay Arora, Managing Director of IRS gave a detailed presentation which followed a high level of audience engagement, with several questions posed on decarbonisation and the human element.
Arun Sharma, IRS Executive Chairman said: “IRS is committed to innovation, sustainability, and collaboration within the maritime sector. Hosting these impactful discussions during LISW reaffirms IRS as a leading voice in promoting responsible practices in shipping. IRS remains dedicated to driving positive change and encouraging the adoption of sustainable technologies and maintaining focus on the aspect of human element during this transition.”
IMO-UNEP-Norway Innovation Forum 2023 to reflect on ‘MARPOL at 50’
Hosted by IMO, in partnership with the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP), and supported by the Government of Norway, this year’s edition of the IMO flagship Innovation Forum - which witnessed over 1,300 participants in 2021 and over 1,900 participants in 2022 – is taking place this week on Thursday 28 September.
The Innovation Forum 2023 will be held in connection with the celebrations of World Maritime Day, and discussions will include the World Maritime Day 2023 theme, ‘MARPOL at 50 – Our commitment goes on’, reflecting the need for further dialogue on IMO's work in enhancing sustainable maritime practices and aligning them with the UN 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development and the 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
The IMO has limited capacity for this hybrid event, taking place 09:30 to 17:00 UK time, which can also be attended online - via Zoom, IMO YouTube channel, and UNTV (hybrid event) with registration link: https://forms.office.com/e/JQFjNitJcY
Those wishing to attend in person are encouraged to reserve their place at the event as soon as possible to secure their spot among industry leaders, experts, and innovators. A full programme of speakers at the event is available on the IMO website.
Riga Central Terminal orders 6 self-discharging containers from manufacturer Graviti
After renting Graviti’s innovative automated dry bulk containers for 2 years and being fully satisfied with the results, the Rigal Central Terminal (in the Freeport of Riga) has decided to purchase six ‘SDC 40’ units from Latvian bulk handling equipment specialist Graviti, upgrading from ‘SDC30’ types to the bigger ones. The terminal has an option to acquire six more in the future.
The containers have already been delivered and are operational (pictured). Having noticed the practical implications and cost-efficiency of the system, several other ports in North-Western Europe, Eastern Europe and the Middle-East are reported to have expressed their interest as well.
In 2022, more than 150 ships were loaded with GRAVITI containers, handling about 1.5 million tonnes of cargo. There have not been any claims, breakdowns or returns, proving the reliability and effectiveness of this containerised shiploading system, according to Graviti. To date, about 60 SDCs have been sold worldwide.
Dinis Hruscovs, Managing Director of Graviti and responsible for developing the SDC, says: “We are very proud of this contract with the Freeport of Riga. It shows that we are now truly past the initial stages in which potential clients were interested, but were not yet ready to invest in such an innovation. It has had to prove itself thoroughly in practice and that has turned the table. The fact that our system reduces CO2 emissions in cargo loading logistics also plays a part: the self-discharging containers can handle more bulk faster than traditional grabs, so less movements are needed. Combine that with lower operational cost and a relatively low pricing due to the simplicity of the design and you can see why we are currently speaking with clients in other regions too.”
In 2020 Graviti, developed a technology to reduce the costs of loading bulk cargo and speed up the logistics processes at terminals. That resulted in two completely new types of self-discharging containers, the SDC30, able to handle 600 tonnes of bulk per hour and the SDC 40, with a 900 t/h loading speed, operating with just one crane. After the first types were tested and deployed by, for example, Batumi Port (Georgia) and Riga Universal Port (Latvia), this method became increasingly popular, especially in eastern European ports.
The containers operate on electrical power and every container comes with its own battery. The floor can be remotely operated to hydraulically open and close. With a fully charged battery, 500 cycles of loading/offloading are guaranteed, although in practice clients report even higher numbers. Because they are self-unloading, they can secure direct loading of dry cargo from warehouses to the ship’s hold.
The SDCs in Riga will be able to unload its 27 cubic metre cargoes in 30 seconds, which is 1.5 times more productive than regular methods of loading. This method also saves up to 35% of the cost of loading, making it a cost-effective solution.
NAPA expands Central European presence and R&D capabilities with new branch in Germany
Global provider of maritime software and data services NAPA has announced the creation of a new subsidiary in Germany to support its business growth and intensify its research and development (R&D) activities in Central Europe.
By establishing NAPA Germany (GmbH), the company aims to consolidate its presence in one of the world’s most important ship-owning nations. The move will enhance NAPA’s offering to the maritime industry in the wider Central Europe region, which is a major hub for commercial shipping, the cruise industry, and ship design and engineering.
This new base will also enable NAPA to expand its R&D team, tapping into Germany’s extensive talent pool for data analysis, artificial intelligence and software development expertise.
The new office will be led by Lars Nickel as Managing Director of NAPA Germany, who has supported NAPA's business through its parent company, ClassNK, since 2015. Building on its almost 40-year heritage in Central Europe, NAPA Germany will be the eighth subsidiary in the NAPA Group.
Mikko Kuosa, CEO of NAPA, said: “Today, the maritime industry is increasingly turning to digital solutions to drive decarbonization in a way that makes sense for each company’s fleet, operations and businesses. As pressure increases on shipping to reduce its greenhouse gas emissions, data is a key enabler for climate action, helping companies gain greater clarity, unlock new efficiencies from design to operations, and integrate new fuels and technologies safely. At NAPA, we’re proud to be leading this transition thanks to the work of our talented team of maritime and technology experts.
“The opening of our new branch in Germany positions NAPA at the heart of a dynamic hub for green shipping. It enables us to work even more closely with our customers to support their decarbonization and digitalization ambitions at a time of rapid change.
“Germany is a key maritime hub, with 400,000 jobs directly or indirectly linked to the industry, and this location provides strategic benefits for NAPA to expand its team. The country offers a strong focus on sustainability and digitalization, making it a natural fit for NAPA and an avenue to the region’s technology and maritime talent pools.”
Adding to this, Lars Nickel, Managing Director of NAPA Germany, said: “I’m looking forward to this new chapter for NAPA and leading our new office, which allows the organization to work more closely with existing customers in the region and explore new opportunities for business development and specialization.
“At NAPA, we put a lot of emphasis on attracting the best and brightest talent to help the industry operate more sustainably, efficiently and safely- which is no small feat! Germany offers an abundance of opportunities and excellent talent for us to engage with, which makes this an even more exciting opportunity.”
SES introduces cruise industry’s first integrated MEO-LEO service with Starlink
For the first time ever, cruise operators can now depend on a single managed solution to reap the benefits of low-latency, high-throughput satellite connectivity services that are enabled by integrating Starlink’s low-earth orbit (LEO) and SES’s medium earth orbit (MEO) services, the two companies announced this week.
The joint offering – SES Cruise mPOWERED + Starlink – seamlessly integrated, sold and delivered by SES – will combine the best of both MEO and LEO orbits to provide high-speed and secure connectivity 24/7 to cruise ships and their guests, regardless of their route and location.
Cruise operators will be able to enjoy SES's new offering that combines the truly global, high-throughput service of Starlink’s LEO system with SES’s unmatched performance MEO constellation to deliver a unique guest and crew experience by expanding existing capacity and reach. The solutions are available in either Premium tier (3Gbps/ship) – for the leading ships who wish to deliver the highest throughput in the industry, or Pro tier (1.5Gbps/ship) – for the operators who wish to manage user experience by matching the right application to the right orbit.
As a managed service provider that pioneered multi-orbit geostationary (GEO) and MEO-enabled networks and delivered connectivity services directly to cruise operators for the last 10 years, SES’s partnership with SpaceX’s Starlink to add LEO-based service into its cruise offering, demonstrates a joint commitment to delivering the best customer experience to cruise operators and guests.
Investment in the cruise experience has reached new heights since the COVID-19 pandemic. Cruise operators are pushing technological and innovative boundaries, many of which are reliant on always-on, high-performance connectivity. This need is compounded by the growing expectations of cruise passengers and stakeholders alike to address the sector’s carbon emissions and comply with new maritime regulations, including CII and EEXI.
“At SES, we strive to provide a world-class connectivity experience for our cruise customers and deliver the same level of service they would enjoy on land,” said John-Paul Hemingway, Chief Strategy Officer at SES. “By being the only one in the cruise industry to expand our unique multi- orbit GEO and MEO network to utilise LEO, we believe it opens new opportunities for us to meet the needs of cruise guests and crew members, and the operational requirements of cruise operators to accelerate their digital transformations – wherever they may be.”
“We are excited to collaborate with SES on a joint solution that combines the reach and capacity of both satellite constellations to offer a solution unlike any other in the market,” said Chad Gibbs, SpaceX’s Vice President of Starlink Business Operations.
Available Q4 2023, SES Cruise mPOWERED + Starlink will fulfil the growing demands of cruise lines to deliver a superior guest experience, optimise smart ship operations, and attract and retain the best crew. With its fully managed end-to-end, best-in-industry bandwidth and low-latency performance, the solution will set an entirely new standard for ship connectivity worldwide and minimise upfront capital costs and ongoing operational expenditure.
KPI OceanConnect announces promotion of Mark Perrins to MD, London
Mark Perrins has been promoted to the position of Managing Director of KPI OceanConnect London Ltd. Mark joined the KPI OceanConnect group in 2009 in a trading role, and subsequently received promotions to Team Leader in 2013 and Trading Manager in 2016. He has more than 22 years’ experience in the shipping industry, having previously worked for two large shipping companies.
James Enston, Regional Head of EMEA commented: “I’m delighted that Mark has accepted the opportunity to take the next step of his career within KPI OceanConnect and I look forward to him contributing more directly to the management of the KPI OceanConnect group of companies.
“Mark is a great asset to our organisation with his extensive knowledge of shipping and experience in global sales and account management. Mark’s business acumen combined with his highly professional approach will benefit our business partners and play an important role in the future growth and direction of the company.”
Mark Perrins (pictured) added: “It is a privilege to accept the position of Managing Director of KPI OceanConnect London. Having joined the team nearly 15 years ago I have a great affiliation with my colleagues and the culture of KPI OceanConnect. I am excited to be able to take the next step in my career where I look forward to becoming a stakeholder within the management team and build upon achievements for the greater benefit of the brand.”
KPI OceanConnect’s London office serves as the headquarters for the group, hosting several group functions and entities. The company recently expanded and refitted the office, taking possession of 5th floor in addition to the existing 7th floor at 108 Cannon Street in the City of London.
James Enston said: “The office expansion is part of our long-term strategy. Our new office puts us in a fantastic position to accommodate growth of our teams to extend our service offering and serve our partners around the world. It is very important for us that we provide a professional and dynamic work environment to retain and attract the best talent.”
Med Marine successfully delivers 75-ton bollard pull tug to Vernicos Scafi
Med Marine is pleased to announce the successful delivery of a cutting-edge 25-metre, 75-ton bollard pull tugboat to Vernicos Scafi, marking a significant milestone in their ongoing partnership. The contract for this vessel was signed in June, to meet the growing marine demands of Vernicos at the busy port of Piraeus.
The MED-A2575 series Ramparts 2500w series tug was named Vernicos Scafi III. It symbolizes Med Marine’s commitment to excellence, representing efficiency and reliability in harbour operations. Vernicos Scafi selected this vessel for its outstanding performance and unwavering dedication to safe and efficient marine solutions.
Med Marine views this delivery as a cornerstone in its long-standing collaboration with Vernicos Scafi. The addition of Vernicos Scafi III to that company’s fleet will significantly enhance its capabilities, enabling it to serve their clients even better.
Med Marine says this successful delivery also underscores its dedication to delivering top-tier vessels that exceed industry standards, taking pride in its craftsmanship and unwavering commitment to customer satisfaction.
Med Marine looks forward to further strengthening its partnership with Vernicos Scafi and exploring new opportunities to meet the ever-evolving needs of the maritime industry. This milestone reaffirms Med Marine's position as a global leader in shipbuilding and maritime solutions.
Light Structures teams up with DNV to deliver structural integrity and digital twin services
DNV and Light Structures AS, a leading supplier of fibre optic condition monitoring systems based on Fiber Bragg Grating (FBG) technology, have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to cooperate on the development of new methodologies and solutions at the intersection of structural health monitoring and digital twin functionalities.
The MOU was signed last week at DNV’s Asia Pacific Headquarters in Singapore. Brice Le Gallo (pictured, right), Vice President and Regional Director for Energy Systems, APAC, DNV and Niklas Hallgren (left), CEO at Light Structures were both present at the signing.
The collaboration marks a significant step forward in DNV and Light Structures’ shared vision to advance innovative solutions in structural health monitoring and digital twin technologies capable of improving safety at sea as well as unlocking new operational efficiencies with the potential to reduce asset lifecycle maintenance costs.
A key goal of the cooperation is to leverage the inherent value in structural integrity monitoring data acquired using Light Structures’ SENSFIB systems for complex marine and offshore projects. Under the MoU, DNV and Light Structures plan to collaborate on diverse areas including customer requested project and solution design, modelling, hydrodynamic analysis, hybrid twin databases, interfacing, instrumentation, installation & commissioning, and co-marketing activities.
“Our collaboration with Light Structures unlocks the potential to boost digital twin fidelity, resulting in new levels of operational insight for our engineers and customers,” said Brice Le Gallo, Vice President and Regional Director for Energy Systems, APAC, DNV.
“Digitalisation in the maritime sector has streamlined our ability to widen the scope of applications that structural integrity data can benefit, so we are looking forward to exploring new workstreams and project implementations through our work with DNV,” said Niklas Hallgren, CEO, Light Structures
Dryad Global partners with BlackBerry to deliver advanced cybersecurity for vessel protection
As a prominent risk technology provider offering comprehensive security, operations, and threat intelligence solutions, Dryad Global has now added maritime malware protection and enhanced cybersecurity services to its ARMS portfolio. This enhancement will fortify customers' operational environments, assets, and data against cyber threats.
Maritime Security and IT Ops face mounting challenges due to limited resources and escalating threats. This complexity burdens Captains, CSOs, Vessel Operators, and Crews, diverting their focus from fleet operations. To address this, Dryad Global is partnering with BlackBerry to deliver a robust solution that encompasses a full range of cybersecurity services and an emergency response mechanism for maritime incidents.
The core of this alliance involves integrating Dryad Global’s ARMS platform with BlackBerry’s Cylance® AI, ensuring top-tier AI-driven security and specialized consultations. This collaboration aims to safeguard vessel networks' most susceptible component: endpoints.
Harnessing BlackBerry's technology and Dryad Global’s ARMS Cyber Security, this partnership caters to diverse maritime sectors, including cargo, cruise, superyachts, and insurance, emphasizing optimal protection against current and future threats.
Dryad Global will also roll out avant-garde managed cybersecurity solutions, notably a 360-degree threat assessment, remote software, and a 24/7 expert cybersecurity team anchored by a state-of-the-art Security Operation Center (SOC). With a prevention-centric strategy, this alliance will grant exceptional insight into maritime cyber threats, enabling clients to make informed, risk-mitigated decisions. Clients also stand to gain from discounted maritime cyber insurance provided by Beazley Insurance.
"With a surge in endpoints within the maritime and superyacht sectors, cyberattacks are on the rise. Our collaboration with BlackBerry is a proactive response, aiding maritime professionals in adapting to an evolving threat landscape,” said Corey Ranslem, CEO Dryad Global. “Dryad Global's commitment lies in holistic security, right from the ocean floor. With Cylance AI, we're channelling cutting-edge, prevention-focused technology, ensuring our ARMS customers receive top-tier protection."
Cylance AI launched in 2012 as the industry’s first AI cybersecurity solution and the industry’s first predictive cybersecurity solution and has protected businesses and governments globally from cyberattacks since its inception, with a multi-year predictive advantage.
“Predictive cybersecurity solutions aren’t just the future, they’re our present-day guards, defending against digital threats before they even knock on the door,” said Nathan Jenniges, Senior Vice President and General Manager, BlackBerry Spark. “In line with BlackBerry’s decades-long ethos that best-in-class security and productivity can coexist, Cylance AI enables organizations to stay ahead of cyberattacks without sacrificing operational efficiency.”
Dryad Global and BlackBerry’s Cylance AI solutions are marked by high efficacy rates, consuming up to 95% less CPU compared to competitors. With an encompassing network, endpoint, and cloud portfolio, the Dryad Global, BlackBerry solution provides sturdy defense for fleets and vessels of any size, as well as rapid incident resolution and reduced revenue impact.
Dryad Global's nuanced approach to threat analysis aids maritime professionals in recognizing fleet or vessel vulnerabilities. Leveraging BlackBerry's AI and machine learning, Dryad Global pre-emptively identifies and neutralizes threats, minimizing potential breaches and their associated repercussions.
Transparensea Fuels expands into Europe with launch of new London office
US-based Transparensea Fuels, provider of transparent and inclusive bunker brokerage and alternative fuels advisory services, has announced it is expanding into the European market, with the opening of a new London office.
Following demand for its fresh approach to the marine fuels market in North America, Transparensea says its move to Europe coincides with shipping facing an unprecedented shift in the way it fuels vessels between now and 2050.
Headed by experienced marine fuels broker Harriet Robson (pictured), Transparensea’s European team will be able to meet growing demand for strategic brokerage services in the region, as customers seek independent expert advice on fuels, both existing and new, to navigate fast-paced regulatory changes, such as the European Union’s Emissions Trading System (EU ETS). With its dedicated alternative fuels consultancy, Transparensea Fuels has developed expertise in advising companies on the fuels landscape, including availability, operational considerations and fuel specifications.
Sandra Ennor, President and CEO of Transparensea Fuels, said: “Transparensea was founded with the ambition to challenge established practices, prioritizing honesty and transparency at every touch point of our work. Our approach means that customers have a trusted, independent and dedicated resource for fuel procurement, which is becoming even more important as we transition to new fuels and bunker buying is increasingly recognized as the strategic priority it truly is. Our expansion into Europe today is a testimony to the value that expert and agile boutique partners can bring to the market.”
This new UK base, which is Transparensea’s first subsidiary outside the United States, will enable the company to further expand its customer base and industry relationships whilst particularly strengthening its client service offering across multiple time zones, including Europe, the Middle East and Asia. Harriet Robson, Transparensea’s Director for the UK, brings over 10 years of experience in maritime bunker brokering that is complemented by strong networks across these key markets.
Harriet Robson, Director of Transparensea for the UK, said: “Europe is entering a period of profound transformation resulting from new demands from regulatory and market forces. This will change not only the fuels used on board ships, but also the procurement process itself. The market is craving more support and clarity to navigate the energy transition, and I see genuine excitement for Transparensea’s disruptive model on this side of the Atlantic. I am proud to bring the company’s in-depth understanding of the fuel landscape to companies operating in Europe and elsewhere in the world.”
Japanese shipping giant NYK Line selects Marlink to equip its owned fleet with smart hybrid network
Smart network and digital solutions company Marlink has secured a contract to extend its innovative smart hybrid network solutions with Starlink LEO internet service to the owned fleet of leading Japanese shipowner Nippon Yusen Kaisha (NYK Line).
Tokyo-based NYK Line has been a Marlink customer since 2013 with Marlink providing hybrid network services for NYK’s huge fleet of containerships, bulk carriers and tankers, car carriers, LNG/LPG carriers and other specialised cargoships.
Following the successful assessment of Starlink on two vessels in 2022, NYK Line contracted Marlink to integrate and manage the LEO services as part of its smart hybrid network and to roll out the solution across the fleet.
NYK Line will utilise the Starlink service alongside the existing high capacity VSAT provided by Marlink on its fleet of owned vessels, focusing the additional bandwidth on crew communications and welfare services. Marlink VSAT will continue to provide the primary business communications channel with L-band back-up.
Network management onboard includes Marlink’s XChange platform ensuring guaranteed connectivity levels to run business and crew applications with as high Quality of Service as possible. XChange enables the seamless blending of networks in all orbits and frequencies - to leverage the benefits of a single secure hybrid network solution with the highest uptime available and guaranteed global coverage.
“NYK recognises the importance of enhancing communications and welfare services for both our existing crew and in attracting and retaining the next generation of seafarers to our fleet,” said Capt. Hisaya Higuchi, Managing Executive Officer, Nippon Yusen Kaisha. “Drawing upon Marlink’s industry-leading experience in managing the integration of Starlink services into an existing network, we will be able to enhance the quality of life at sea for our seafarers while continuing to enjoy seamless VSAT services for business needs.”
“Our partnership with NYK has allowed us to support their initial assessment of Starlink and now to act as integrator for a solution that will deliver dramatic improvements to crew welfare services,” said Tore Morten Olsen, President, Maritime, Marlink. “This agreement builds upon our existing relationship and once again demonstrates Marlink’s track record with helping vessel operators adopt this innovative solution and make it a reality for seafarers.”
GTMaritime reaches 15,000-vessel milestone
Leading provider of secure maritime data communications software, GTMaritime, has reached 15,000 installations amid accelerating growth in demand for secure and reliable maritime software solutions. The news comes just 16 months after the company announced that it had passed the 10,000-vessel milestone.
Richard White, Global Commercial Director, GTMaritime, said: “Over the past few years, we have witnessed rapid growth in the volume of data handled by vessels, and this trend only appears to be speeding up. The introduction of IMO 2021 cyber-security regulations plus the ongoing digitalisation and decarbonisation of the global fleet are amplifying demand for secure, reliable solutions that can handle increased data loads and integrate seamlessly into ship operations.”
GTMaritime offers ship owners and operators a portfolio of future-proof data communications solutions for email, file transfer, software deployment and cyber security. Specifically designed to overcome the challenges of remote connectivity, the solutions provide seamless integration with shore-based tools, which can be managed via GTMaritime’s single fleetwide management dashboard.
“Reaching 15,000 installations is another major milestone for us in what is proving to be an exciting period for the company,” said Chris Judge, Managing Director, GTMaritime. “The fact it comes just 16 months after we hit the 10-vessel mark reflects both the surging demand for secure, maritime-optimised software solutions and the hard work and commitment of the GTMaritime team.
“I would like to express my gratitude to our customers for their continued loyalty, and to our colleagues, partners and resellers for helping our products to reach such a wide and diverse maritime audience.”
In another boost for the company, GTMaritime recently received certification to the ISO/IEC 27001 international standard for information security management systems. ISO/IEC 27001 certification confirms that an organisation takes a comprehensive approach to managing security risks and preserving the confidentiality, integrity and availability of the data it owns and handles.
Tanker Safety Guide (Liquefied Gas), Fourth Edition now available
Developed and reviewed by senior industry experts with direct experience in the field, this comprehensive guide is presented in a user-friendly and modernised format, with a significant upgrade in the visual representation of technical information, including infographics and flow diagrams.
Ebooks are available to order now through your preferred ebook platform.
Print copies will be released in w/c 16 October - please place your order now to be the first to receive your copies.
New in this edition of the guide:
- Alignment of the ship/shore safety checklists with ISGOTT 6.
- Emphasis on simplifying the human element processes on board to reduce the chance of root cause accidents attributed to human element.
- New elements on bunkering and simultaneous operations.
- Expanded guidance on rollover, enclosed spaces and mooring.
- Updated section on reliquification to incorporate new technologies.
- Useful and relevant annexes pulled into the main body of the guide for easy reference.
Tanker Safety Guide (Liquefied Gas), fourth edition, has been written for on board deck and technical officers, those training or providing training in liquefied gas transportation and anyone engaged in the transportation of liquefied gas by sea.
This new edition is priced at £470 and is available in print and ebook. Find out more and order from ICS Publications.
World Maritime Day 2023 highlights marine environment protection
This year sees the 50th anniversary of the adoption of the International Convention for the Prevention of Pollution from Ships (MARPOL), the primary global treaty for the prevention of pollution of the marine environment by ships from intentional, operational or accidental causes.
To mark IMO’s dedication to the objectives of this landmark treaty, the theme of World Maritime Day 2023 is ‘MARPOL at 50 – Our commitment goes on’. IMO is calling on Members States and all in the maritime industry to celebrate the day and be inspired to build upon the positive impacts MARPOL has brought. IMO’s work towards a sustainable future with enhanced protection of our planet and ocean continues.
On World Maritime Day, IMO-UNEP-Norway Innovation Forum 2023 takes place on 28 September 2023 at IMO Headquarters, London, and online. The Forum promotes innovation to accelerate the transition of the marine sector towards a zero- and low-emission future. Topics addressed through high-level panel discussions include: environmental performance; reducing plastic litter from ships; supporting innovation in marine fuel production; decarbonizing the maritime sector; unlocking green finance; and partnerships and collaboration.
KVH TracNet hybrid communications and TracVision satellite TV honoured by National Marine Electronics Association
The members of the National Marine Electronics Association recognized the performance and reliability of the TracNet™ H60 hybrid communications terminal and the TracVision® UHD7 satellite TV system from KVH Industries, Inc. (Nasdaq: KVHI) during the 2023 NMEA Conference. These maritime products received the 2023 Product of Excellence Awards in their respective categories.
The award for the TracVision UDH7 marked the 26th consecutive year that a KVH TracVision system has been honoured in the marine satellite TV category.
“We are gratified by this recognition by the members of the NMEA,” said Chad Impey, KVH’s Senior Vice President of Global Sales. “Every day, they work with leisure and commercial boaters to ensure their vessels are equipped with the technology needed for safe, reliable operations. All of us at KVH are thrilled that NMEA chose our communications and satellite TV solutions for the Product of Excellence awards and recognized our unwavering commitment to keeping boaters and seafarers always connected to shore, home, and family.”
The NMEA annually presents its Product of Excellence Awards to recognize design, performance, and reliability in marine electronics products. NMEA members, comprising representatives of more than 600 companies, including manufacturers, dealers, and boat builders, select the winners.
KVH’s TracNet H60 is a compact 60cm hybrid communications terminal with integrated satellite, cellular, and Wi-Fi technology with intelligent, automatic switching to keep boats connected to the best available communication option via the KVH ONE™ global network. The terminal constantly assesses service availability, cost, and data connection quality to deliver optimal connectivity consistently. Single-cable install, tuned reflectors, multi-axis stabilization, stabilized skew, digital IMUs, and a commercial-grade rotary joint with continuous azimuth facilitate seamless connectivity in calm and challenging conditions.
The TracVision UHD7 is a high-performance 60cm (24 inch) marine satellite TV antenna designed to provide boat owners, charter yacht guests, and commercial vessel crews access to ultra-high-definition (UHD) and 4K programming from leading satellite TV providers.
Inmarsat ‘Future of Maritime Safety Report’ highlights importance of data and collaboration in tackling persistent safety challenges
The 2023 edition of The Future of Maritime Safety Report from Inmarsat Maritime, a Viasat business, reveals that the number of distress calls from ships at sea remains high, despite a continuing decline in vessel losses. The new report, which analyses Global Maritime Distress and Safety System information captured by Inmarsat, registered 853 distress calls from January to December 2022 – up from 794 in 2021.
With the number of losses of vessels over 100 gross tonnage (GT) falling by 65% in the last decade, the report highlights that figures for marine casualties and incidents reported remain stubbornly high. Over the last four years, distress signals registered over Inmarsat RescueNET averaged 810 per year.
According to Lloyd’s List Intelligence data, the most common causes of casualties in 2022 were recurring issues including machinery damage, collision, fire and explosion, and grounding. Based on a new methodology from data analysts at supply chain consultancy SeaFocus, the 2023 edition of The Future of Maritime Safety Report compares datasets across 12 vessel types and multiple years to identify variations, establish trends and assess shipping’s safety issues with precision. Its commentary adds insights from three Inmarsat roundtable meetings, which considered technology, regulation and the human element respectively.
Peter Broadhurst, Senior Vice President, Safety and Regulatory, Inmarsat Maritime, said: “As data in this report shows, we see the same safety incidents repeated time and again, year after year. While the rapid changes ahead pose challenges, they also afford us a great opportunity: to not simply try to maintain levels of safety, but to improve them. Learning from trends revealed in the oceans of data we have access to is essential.”
‘The Future of Maritime Safety’ identifies deficiencies in industry attitudes and approaches towards safety, including an “inadequate top-down safety culture”, siloed data that is seldom shared, over-emphasis on human error, poor conditions for seafarers, and the perception of safety as a tick-box exercise. To improve standards and reduce the human, environmental and financial impact of marine casualties, the report calls for “cooperation and collaboration built on solid data and the collective desire to manage risk to the lowest practicable level”.
Specific measures proposed include the proactive use of safety data and reports to tackle the root causes of repeated and well-known issues and the creation of a standard international marine casualty and incident dataset. The report recommends anonymising incident and casualty data to “overcome prevailing unwillingness to share data due to commercial sensitivities” and reaching a consensus on standard data points to monitor.
“We have the data but need to find ways to harmonise its collation and employment to tackle safety deficiencies head-on,” commented Broadhurst. “Let’s change the narrative from a culture of commercial and personal secrecy out of fear of competition and punitive measures to one of transparency and acceptance of safety-related change. In this way, we can better protect seafarers, vessels and the environment and ensure that safety keeps pace with other aspects of a sustainable transition that is steering shipping towards a new dawn.”
The full report can be downloaded from the Inmarsat website.
Lloyd's Register Foundation backs Sea Shepherd Global’s initiative for African female seafarers
Lloyd’s Register Foundation has announced a new grant to Sea Shepherd Global, to develop and expand its programme sponsoring female maritime cadets from Africa onboard its ships.
The Foundation's grant will allow four cadets to join crew onboard Sea Shepherd's vessels, combatting illegal fishing in Africa. They will be paired with a dedicated Chief Engineer or Bridge Officer to complete their logbook — the ticket to their qualification known as a Certificate of Competency, required to become a fully qualified seafarer.
According to the IMO, today women represent just 1.2% percent of the global seafarer workforce. Global Maritime Trends 2050, a recent report produced by Lloyd’s Register and Lloyd’s Register Foundation, however, estimates that the use of more advanced technologies and systems, plus extensive re-skilling and training programmes, will pave the way for women to take on more roles on land and at sea. This means women could make up a quarter of global seafarers by 2050.
Despite this, women around the African continent still face substantial barriers in obtaining the sea time needed to attain the professional qualifications necessary for employment. Sea Shepherd Global is committed to equipping underrepresented seafarers with professional seagoing experience, by upholding the highest industry standards in safety, crew welfare, and training onboard.
"Sea Shepherd Global is proud of its four-year history of partnering with women maritime professionals around the African continent to promote marine conservation while helping advance the careers of some of the world's least represented seafarers in the marine space,” said Capt. Peter Hammarstedt, Sea Shepherd Global’s Director of Campaigns. “The initiative is the result of connections made between Sea Shepherd Global and African Women in Maritime (WiMA) during the Africa Blue Economy Forum organised by Mrs. Leila Ben Hassen in Tunisia in 2019, and its further development and expansion is now possible thanks to the generous support of Lloyd's Register Foundation."
Bea Agüera, Sea Shepherd Global’s Crew Coordinator said: “Crewing agencies in West Africa either don't exist or can't compete with the more established and dominant ones in Indonesia and the Philippines where the recruitment system is more developed. It's also harder to get a visa, and travel can be more expensive.
“Unfortunately, gender discrimination is prevalent throughout the maritime world, including in developed countries. At Sea Shepherd Global's crewing department, we're committed to breaking down gender barriers in the maritime world. This partnership with Lloyd's Register Foundation reflects this commitment.”
Sea Shepherd Global is working towards a future that promotes gender equality in the maritime sector, working to make tangible improvements for women who dedicate their lives to working at sea.
“Governments, regulators, and the private sector need to work together to remove barriers of entry into the maritime system, increase diversity and aid the just transition for all demographics in the ocean economy,” said Olivia Swift, Senior Programme Manager at Lloyd’s Register Foundation.”I’m excited by Lloyd’s Register Foundation’s initial collaboration with Sea Shepherd Global and looking forward to seeing how our funding will make a real difference to Africa’s female seafarers.”
Beyond the women directly impacted by this initiative, Sea Shepherd benefits from having locally trained cadets onboard, with first-hand experience in ocean conservation measures combating illegal, unreported, and unregulated (IUU) fishing.
Funding from Lloyd’s Register Foundation will also enable Sea Shepherd to develop future collaborations with groups such as Women in Marine Africa, Women in Marine East and South Africa, and the Female Seafarers Association of Nigeria. By expanding this programme, Sea Shepherd will create opportunities for former cadets to mentor new ones from their home countries.
Best of both worlds for Swedish Club Greece as it opens new office
The Swedish Club celebrated its move into new, larger premises in Athens last week, offering the Greek shipping community a warm welcome at its Inauguration and Open House. Owners, brokers and the Club’s business partners toasted the new offices and enjoyed the Club’s hospitality.
Conveniently located in Paleo Faliro, the Club’s new Greek offices are larger than its previous home. Ludvig Nyhlén (pictured, left), Area Manager for Team Greece explained: “This has been a very positive step for Team Greece and we are delighted to see that the move has been so warmly received. Our team in Greece is expanding and we had grown out of our old offices. The majority of our members are based across Athens, and this new location gives us the best of both worlds, enabling us to be closer to our members in the greater area, and yet at the same time remain near our friends in Piraeus.”
Around 400 guests attended the celebration, taking advantage of its balconies and communal areas to enjoy the fine weather. “The numbers attending exceeded our expectations, proving just how accessible our new offices are,” remarked Nyhlén.
Earlier in the day, Thomas Nordberg, Managing Director of The Swedish Club, visited the new offices and congratulated the team on a successful and seamless transition. “I have always been clear as to the importance we place on the Club’s regional offices, and the important work that they do” he said. “Establishing an office in Greece in 1980 was one of the Club’s early steps towards true internationalisation, and the success of that move has helped make the Club what it is today. This new step in that journey looks to be very successful and I am delighted that the feedback I have heard from our members has been so positive.”
In keeping with Greek tradition, the new offices were blessed by a priest. Father Dimitrios Balkanas gave the blessing (pictured) – or ‘agiasmos’ – which not only covered the premises but also all who work or live there including the Club’s friends and associates.
The Swedish Club’s new offices are located at 3rd Floor, Building 4, Complex II, 4 Moraitini & Eth. Makariou Street, Paleo Faliro 175 61, Athens, Greece, and all contact numbers remain the same.
Svitzer fleet expands along Brazilian coast
Global towage provider Svitzer, part of A.P. Moller - Maersk, has announced the continued expansion of its fleet in Brazil, as part of the ongoing growth of its operations in the country. Svitzer Monte KT is the fourth tug to join the fleet in the country since April and demonstrates Svitzer’s commitment to strategically strengthening its presence across Brazil’s coast to deliver sustainable marine services.
Svitzer Monte KT is sister to three tugs already delivered to Svitzer in 2023, which have been deployed across the ports of Pécem, Paranagua, and Santos on Brazil’s coast. The tug is one of six new Azimuth Stern Drive (ASD) tugs that will be put into operation by Svitzer in Brazil before the end of 2024. As a Ramparts 2300 series tug, Svitzer Monte KT has a top speed of 13 knots and a bollard pull of 70 tonnes. Designed by Robert Allan, the tug was built by the Brazilian Shipyard Rio Maguari.
The new tug joins its sister tug Svitzer Atanásio in Santos, which was delivered earlier in 2023. Svitzer has a total of four tugs in Santos, Brazil’s largest port and Latin America’s busiest container hub.
Arjen Van Dijk, Managing Director Americas, said: “The delivery of the Svitzer Monte KT at Santos shows Svitzer’s commitment to continued growth in Brazil. As we expand our port coverage and increase our ability to deliver sustainable services for customers, we also look forward to further growing our footprint in the country over the next few years. Brazil continues to be one of Svitzer’s main growth markets in the Americas region with two further vessels, equipped with FiFi 1 (firefighting) capabilities to be delivered to Svitzer in Brazil by the second quarter of 2024.”
Commenting on the fleet expansion, Daniel Reedtz Cohen, Managing Director, Svitzer Brazil said: “We have a very clear strategy in the Brazilian market to strengthen our coverage and deliver safe and reliable services to our customers. With the addition of Svitzer Monte KT to our fleet, we continue to strengthen our ability to deliver high-quality support of global and local ship-operators in Brazil’s logistics ecosystem.”
By the end of 2023, Svitzer will be operating 20 tugs, including the four vessels added to the fleet in 2023, from eight ports across Brazil – Salvador, Suape, Pecem, Santos, Vitoria, Rio Grande, Sao Francisco do Sul, and Paranagua. As a leading global towage provider, Svitzer combines its wide reach and experience with in-depth regional and local knowledge to benefit its customers in Brazil and ensure they receive services of the highest standard.
Shipnext secures substantial Belgian grant to boost AI in shipping
Leading online cargo platform Shipnext has secured a substantial, multi-year grant from Flanders Innovation & Entrepreneurship (VLAIO) to strengthen the adoption of predictive analytics and AI in the supply chain.
A dedicated team based at Shipnext’s headquarters in Antwerp – Europe’s second largest port – will now embark on an ambitious project to develop a supply chain volatility forecast, helping the platform’s users to understand likely transportation costs several weeks in advance, as well as anticipated demand for shipping assets.
A new algorithm will be created, making use of various freight matrices and a range of data sources for specialised commodity trade-related analytics. The project, initially designed for users shipping commodities such as steel, coal, chemicals and agricultural products, will utilise natural language processing, machine learning, big-data analysis and predictive analytics.
Shipnext, which has around 3,500 daily users including brokers, traders, shippers, forwarding companies and carriers, will receive an initial grant of €400,000 in the coming months. Over the next five years, further funding will be provided by VLAIO, which aims to stimulate entrepreneurship in the Flanders region by supporting innovative businesses with financial subsidies.
“Back in 2016, Shipnext saw that the shipping industry was drowning in emails – it was obvious that processing freight requests manually could not go on forever,” said Alexander Varvarenko, founder and CEO of Shipnext.
“For that reason, we embarked on a digital transition for the shipping business. First, we patented the process of extracting cargo, fleet and shipping data from emails using digital algorithms and AI-driven technology in order to facilitate instant freight-matching and automation of workflows.
“Thanks to VLAIO support, we will now be able to take our offering to the next-level – helping users accurately anticipate freight rates and demand for ships ahead of time. The culmination of our project will be a highly accurate forecast of freight market volatility, thereby leading to more sustainable supply chains, both in Europe and internationally.”
Shipnext provides shipping solutions and intelligence for customers with breakbulk, dry bulk, wet bulk, heavy and oversized cargoes.
P&O Ferries leads summer surge in UK trade and tourism
Reporting strong increases in summer passenger and freight traffic, P&O Ferries cemented its position as market leader on Europe’s busiest ferry route between Dover and Calais and saw rises across its network.
From June to August 2023, P&O Ferries saw a 71 per cent increase in freight volumes on the Dover-Calais route compared to the summer of 2022. The ferry operator has been able to meet the rise in freight traffic and boost its market share on the Dover-Calais ferry route to 46 per cent, matching capacity to demand and focussing on offering customers regular sailings, a quality service and the best possible value.
The return to strength of UK-EU trade can also be seen throughout P&O Ferries’ network with an overall 35 per cent growth in freight volumes across all routes.
As well as the increases in freight, P&O Ferries also received a major boost in passenger numbers, as the public looks to make more sustainable travel choices. Summer holiday passengers flocked to the new P&O Pioneer as the Dover-Calais route saw a 48 per cent increase in passengers compared to the previous year, with 1.3 million passengers travelling across the Channel with P&O Ferries from June to August.
Around the UK, P&O Ferries’ routes overall saw a 39 per cent increase in total passenger volume on the previous year.
P&O Ferries CEO, Peter Hebblethwaite said: “We are delighted by the trust that our customers have put into us to deliver a best-in-class offering on important trade and tourist routes between the UK and the EU. We are serving our customers better than ever and seeing P&O Ferries surging ahead again as the market leader on the Dover-Calais route.
“We are excited that more customers are choosing us on our journey to the sustainable future of travel, and we look forward to welcoming millions more for the exceptional and unique experience of sailing on our new hybrid ships in the months ahead.”
June saw the introduction of P&O Pioneer (pictured), the world’s largest double-ended hybrid ferry, which has the capacity to carry over half a million goods units a year between the UK and the EU.
In early 2024, P&O Ferries’ second hybrid vessel, P&O Liberté, will enter service on the Dover-Calais route, as P&O Ferries launches a new era of cross-Channel ferry travel as the first operator to service the route only using hybrid Fusion Class ships.
P&O Ferries points out that these advanced vessels, specifically designed to serve the busy Dover-Calais crossing, enable more passengers to make sustainable choices and support reduced emissions in the supply chain, helping industries across the economy to meet their emissions targets.
WFW advises TMG and Temeraire on sale of ship management companies to Grindrod Shipping
Watson Farley & Williams (WFW) advised Taylor Maritime Group Limited (TMG) and Temeraire Holding (MI) Limited on the c. US$13.5m sale of Taylor Maritime Management Limited and Tamar Ship Management Limited to a subsidiary of Grindrod Shipping Holdings Ltd. The sale is subject to certain closing conditions and closing is expected before mid-October 2023, after which the two companies will become wholly owned subsidiaries of Grindrod Shipping.
Hong Kong-headquartered TMG is a private, family-owned ship management company founded in 2013 that provides the full range of commercial, corporate and administrative services including chartering, operations, insurance management, sale and purchase, financing arrangement, accounting and reporting. Nasdaq-listed Grindrod Shipping is a Singapore-based provider of global transportation services, primarily in the dry bulk sector.
The multidisciplinary WFW London team that advised TMG and Temeraire was led by Corporate and Maritime Partner Daniel Saunders, working closely London Tax Partner Claire Miles, London Employment Partner Devan Khagram and New York Capital Markets Partner Filana Silberberg. They were supported by London Associates Sulaiman Hoosen and Toby Hunt and Hong Kong Senior Associate Oscar Wong.
Daniel commented: “It has been a pleasure to work with the co-operative and solutions-focussed teams on both sides of the deal. Being instructed on this highly technical, cross-border transaction once again demonstrates WFW’s ability to handle complex international maritime matters in the corporate space”.
ABS and AL Group to study ultramax bulker methanol fuel conversion
ABS and Asiatic Lloyd Maritime LLP, member of the AL Group, have signed a joint development project (JDP) to study the feasibility of converting the fuel system of an ultramax bulk carrier, from conventional diesel to methanol.
The study is focused on a series of up to eight ABS Classed ultramax bulk carriers ordered for construction in the New Hantong Shipyard, China, for AL Group.
“Converting vessel propulsion systems to take advantage of the decarbonisation potential afforded by methanol is going to be an important part of the industry’s green energy transition,” said John McDonald (pictured, right), ABS President and COO. “It is great to work with forward-thinking partners like AL Group to support their development of a modern fleet with operations.”
“At AL Group, we continue with unwavering dedication on our journey of sustainability and efforts on decarbonisation,” said Friedrich Bunnemann (pictured, left), Managing Partner of AL Group and Asiatic Lloyd Maritime LLP. “This joint development project with ABS allows us to explore actively the adoption of low-carbon fuel options for our future fleet, while fortifying our commitment to environmental stewardship, emissions reduction, and innovation.”
Separately, ABS reports that it has awarded approval in principle to Samsung Heavy Industries Co., Ltd. for its cyber resilience systems design.
LALIZAS 2nd Maritime Service Providers Summit 2023 successfully completed
Four months after the first LALIZAS Maritime Service Providers Summit, LALIZAS had the pleasure to welcome once again more service partners from around the world in a two-day event at LaLiBay Resort & Spa.
On 20-22 September 2023, the LALIZAS 2nd Maritime Service Providers Summit took place in Greece, on Aegina island, with a remarkable attendance rate that exceeded the manufacturer’s expectations.
Service providers from more than 30 countries were invited to attend the Summit in order to get to know each other better, in an effort to explore opportunities for future synergies.
LALIZAS, has a long history in manufacturing lifesaving equipment following the strictest criteria, paying particular attention on the proper service of this equipment, with the goal to follow the lifecycle of the products, ensuring safety at sea. Thus, maritime service providers are really important for LALIZAS, as they play a crucial role on the best care and installation of lifesaving equipment.
During the Summit, LALIZAS had the chance to meet many of their partners in person & spend quality time together, getting to know each other better, combining business & pleasure.
The event garnered a high level of correspondence and engagement, with attendees actively participating in discussions, networking, and knowledge-sharing sessions.
LALIZAS had the opportunity to provide insights into their company’s structure as well as the development within the commercial & maritime markets.
Consultations on Fire Safety & Rescue (FSR) Services and the related Technician’s App led to very interesting discussions among LALIZAS Reps and guests.
What drew a lot of attention from the audience was the F&I (Fast & Independent) Liferaft Exchange, a unique proposal to Ship Managers/Owners for a simple and fast liferaft exchange with no contract & no commitment, which was discussed in depth, with real-case scenarios.
Various LSA (Life Saving Appliances) & FFE (Fire Fighting Equipment) products were also presented and displayed during the event.
The Summit offered a unique opportunity for LALIZAS to meet important partners from all over the world and discuss key issues that will help create smooth communication and establish synergies among them.
The event’s team of LaLiBay Resort & Spa, an established maritime hub on Aegina, helped to achieve the smooth running of the Summit.
LALIZAS says the presence and the active participation of the attendees truly made this event a memorable and fruitful experience!
INTERCARGO stresses its commitment to MARPOL on World Maritime Day
As the global shipping industry today celebrates World Maritime Day with its central theme of “MARPOL at 50”, the International Association of Dry Cargo Shipowners (INTERCARGO) has stressed its commitment to the full implementation of MARPOL regulations onboard dry bulk carriers.
Introduced in 1973, The International Convention for the Prevention of Pollution from Ships (MARPOL) is the main international convention covering prevention of pollution of the marine environment by ships from operational or accidental causes.
INTERCARGO is committed to international efforts to protect our marine environments. The dry bulk sector is arguably the most efficient cargo carriage mode on earth. INTERCARGO members are expected to fully comply with global environmental and anti-pollution regulations and go beyond them by adopting best practices and demonstrating operational excellence in setting the standards for industry-wide environmental protection.
Actively participating at the International Maritime Organization, where it has held NGO status since the early 1990s, INTERCARGO is at the heart of global efforts to create a safe, efficient, high quality and environmentally friendly shipping industry.
For an overview of INTERCARGO’s work in relation to the UN Sustainable Development Goals (UN SDGs), please watch the Association’s videos on “Dry Bulk Shipping: Sustainably serving the world’s essential needs’ Click here to view.
Britoil Offshore Services acquires 30 offshore-service vessels and offices
Britoil Offshore Services (Britoil), a leading global provider of marine transportation and anchor handling vessels focused on executing complex offshore energy projects worldwide, announced today the acquisition of 30 offshore-support vessels and two management offices in Singapore and Italy from Dutch shipping group Vroon. The acquisition will see an expansion of Britoil’s operating footprint into the Mediterranean, the North Sea and Asia Pacific. The operations will also synergise in the Middle East and Africa.
The 30 vessels and supporting offices were part of Vroon’s offshore services business. Earlier this year, Vroon announced it would sell these vessels as part of a strategic reorientation. The two management offices supporting the fleet will continue their operations as usual, with Ernest Loh and Sivakumar Ramadu continuing to lead the team in Singapore and Andrea Cavo helming the team in Italy. They will report to Florent Kirchhoff, Chief Executive Officer of Britoil, headquartered in Singapore. This ensures a high degree of continuity for existing clients and contracts. Vroon will ensure a smooth and seamless transition of its vessels, crews and organisation to Britoil.
The acquisition will increase Britoil’s fleet strength as it gains access to another 30 vessels, doubling its current fleet. It propels Britoil in the selected group of top 10 offshore service vessel owners, with one of the youngest average fleet ages, at 11 years for the combined fleet. This acquisition fits well within Britoil’s growth strategy, acquiring modern assets, expanding into a global network as well as building a strong foundation for growth in the offshore renewables market. Transport Capital acted as the exclusive financial advisor to Britoil.
“It has been an exciting period for us at Britoil. After setting up our Dubai office and acquiring seven offshore service vessels last year, this acquisition provides a robust platform for growth as a combined company. We are truly honoured to be working with an experienced management team, and we look forward to the opportunity to widen our geographical offerings and a diversified client portfolio together as one team,” commented Florent Kirchhoff, Chief Executive Officer of Britoil Offshore Services.
“Vroon’s reliable, sustainable and cost-effective solutions have seen many successes with their clients. Sustainability is no longer a want but a must and need. Britoil’s customers will be able to benefit and see cost-effectiveness in our solutions moving forward,” Florent added.
Martijn Schouten, CEO of Vroon, commented, “With the sale to Britoil of 30 offshore-support vessels and our offshore management offices in Genoa and Singapore, we have virtually completed the divestments that are part of our financial restructuring and strategic refocus, which we communicated earlier this year. We see a good fit with Britoil’s existing offshore operations and believe the combined fleet will be a strong global provider of offshore services to existing and new clients across the world. Together with Britoil, we will ensure a smooth and seamless transition of our vessels, crews and supporting organisation to their new owner. We wish our former colleagues all the best under new ownership.”
Formed in 1988, Britoil has operated in the energy industry for 35 years with vast experience in anchor handling, towing, and transportation at sea. Over the last three decades, Britoil has built a reputation for excellence, relying on vessels tailor-made for the offshore environment as well as experienced crew. In 2021, HICO Investment Group, the private investment business of the Hartnoll Family based in Singapore, acquired a significant stake in Britoil.
WinGD wins first approval in principle for ammonia two-stroke engine
Lloyd’s Register approval in principle will support shipowner confidence on vessel designs using ammonia-fuelled main engines.
Swiss marine power company WinGD has secured the first ever approval in principle (AiP) for two- stroke engines fuelled with ammonia. Lloyd’s Register awarded the AiP to WinGD’s X-DF-A dual-fuel range, giving shipowners the assurances they need to realise vessel designs using ammonia-fuelled main engines for the first time.
Development of WinGD’s ammonia-fuelled engine series has been advanced with strong support from shipowners, shipyards and engine builders. The first engine to be developed, the 52-bore X52DF-A, will be available for delivery from Q4 2024 and is applicable to a range of vessels including gas and bulk carriers.
WinGD CEO Dominik Schneiter said: “Time is of the essence as shipping looks to clean power solutions. This approval shows the industry that WinGD is leading the way in bringing carbon-free ammonia power to the deep-sea fleet. With the support of expert partners including Lloyd’s Register, these technologies will be available long before emission targets require them, giving operators vital space to plan and gain experience.”
Lloyd’s Register CEO Nick Brown added: “The maritime industry needs to trust that new technologies can be deployed safely as it continues to evaluate multiple transition pathways. This AiP will give first movers confidence that, subject to subsequent care in design, build, integration and operation, this ammonia two-stroke engine can help meet that demand. LR is delighted to have worked with WinGD on this groundbreaking development.”
WinGD was able to validate to Lloyd’s Register experts that the X52DF A concept is technically ready to satisfy future regulatory requirements with no major obstacles. As part of the AiP process, Lloyd’s Register considered the engine safety concept, risk assessments and preliminary engine and fuel supply system design, as well as confirming the compatibility of materials with ammonia fuel.
WinGD will extend the X DF A platform to a 72-bore variant in 2025 followed by other engine sizes in 2026 according to market needs, accommodating a wide range of vessel types from small tankers and car carriers to very large tankers. The engines operate according to the Diesel principle in both diesel and ammonia modes, have the same rating field as WinGD’s existing Diesel engines and will be available with the same cylinder configurations.
SRI marks anniversary with new research initiative to support the industry
To mark World Maritime Day 2023, SRI, the international pan-industry body researching maritime and seafarers’ law, has announced the launch of a new research initiative endorsed by the IMO Legal Committee.
The research is designed to explore how effectively the IMO-ILO Guidelines on the fair treatment of seafarers in the event of a maritime accident are implemented globally. This announcement coincides with the anniversary of SRI, which was launched on World Maritime Day in September 2010 at the International Maritime Organization’s headquarters in London.
The research aims to assess how governments worldwide are incorporating these vital guidelines into national laws, addressing the vulnerability of seafarers facing legal complexities and challenges in attaining justice at local levels. Importantly, this new research will also explore how the Guidelines are being applied in respect of criminal investigations.
Deirdre Fitzpatrick (pictured), Executive Director of SRI, explains: “An investigation under the Casualty Investigation Code is mandatory following major incidents, and additional inquiries including criminal investigations are often triggered, leading already traumatised seafarers to find themselves behind bars and unwittingly facing what is often an opaque justice system in an unknown country.”
The new research programme is being carried out in conjunction with the International Transport Workers’ Federation (ITF) and the results will be presented to the IMO Legal Committee next year, supporting the work of the Joint IMO-ILO Working Group. This partnership seeks to address fair treatment concerns for seafarers detained on suspicion of maritime crimes, paving the way for the consideration of tangible proposals to protect their rights and well-being.
Jacqueline Smith, Maritime Co-ordinator of the ITF, is deeply concerned about seafarers facing criminal investigations: “Seafarers become extremely vulnerable in the face of local criminal laws, and they face serious difficulties in gaining justice at a local level. It appears all too often that only seafarers are presumed guilty in the event of casualties or crimes and are scapegoated. That is obviously wrong, and seafarers are deeply concerned. Our work must continue until seafarers everywhere have the guarantees of fair treatment that they deserve”.
Dave Heindel, Chair of the ITF Seafarers Section, wants the research to be consequential for the maritime industry. “At a time when the maritime industry needs urgently to recruit, retrain, upskill and reskill seafarers, fear of criminalisation remains a very serious problem. It could get even worse. Green fuels and automation could raise new potential criminal liabilities for seafarers. The research and work being conducted by the ITF and SRI will help to identify and address these issues”.
Hanwha Ocean and BV complete joint project on 3D Model Based Classification Approval
Bureau Veritas, a world leader in testing, inspection and certification, and Hanwha Ocean, a leader in the shipbuilding and offshore industry, have completed a Joint Development Project (JDP) to enable 3D model based approval for the Classification of ships.
The JDP tested and validated the workflow of 3D model-based Classification approvals, where classification reviews are directly based on the 3D model provided by the designer instead of using traditional 2D drawings. Potential benefits include improved accuracy, a better visualization of design, reduced cost with increased efficiency, and enhanced collaboration.
Hanwha Ocean provided the cargo hold region of one LNG carrier using OCX (Open Class eXchange) format. Based on this 3D model, Bureau Veritas automatically generated the calculation models used in BV’s rule-checking software: MARS (prescriptive rule check) and VeriSTAR Hull (finite element analysis). In addition, BV provided Hanwha Ocean with access to its web-based collaborative platform (VeriSTAR Project Management) to share comments and the progress of the design review in real-time.
Digital technology is developing rapidly and is applied to all industries, including shipbuilding and marine, where it plays an important role to improve the development and efficiency of design and production processes. 3D classification is an important component of BV’s digital transformation programme, having received significant investment.
As a leader in digital initiatives, BV has developed a 3D model based approval for Classification of ships. In parallel, Hanwha Ocean has a plan to develop and establish 3D structural design procedures by deploying future digital design paradigm, with the aim to improve processes based on the latest technology.
Duke Lee, Technical Director of Hanwha Ocean Co., Ltd., said: “Together with Bureau Veritas, we are developing 3D model based ship design procedure using NAPA Designer for improvement of our design capability as well as engineering competitiveness and to achieve one more step toward digital transformation. As our 3D model can be used for Classification rule check purpose and also can be submitted to Class for approval via 3D OCX format, 3D OCX can be very helpful for Hanwha Ocean and Classification Society simultaneously.”
Alexander Gregg-Smith, SVP of Bureau Veritas Marine & Offshore North Asia Zone, said: “We are pleased to cooperate with Hanwha Ocean on the classification approval process using 3D models. It is our expectation that classification approval process using this 3D model can be applied to actual projects with Hanwha Ocean, and improved efficiency and accuracy can be expected. This collaboration between Hanwha Ocean and BV is an obvious demonstration of our commitment to collaborate with key players in the industry, supporting innovation to meet sustainability ambitions and challenges ahead.”
LALIZAS 2nd Maritime Service Providers Summit 2023 successfully completed
Four months after the first LALIZAS Maritime Service Providers Summit, LALIZAS had the pleasure to welcome once again more service partners from around the world in a two-day event at LaLiBay Resort & Spa.
On 20-22 September 2023, the LALIZAS 2nd Maritime Service Providers Summit took place in Greece, on Aegina island, with a remarkable attendance rate that exceeded the manufacturer’s expectations.
Service providers from more than 30 countries were invited to attend the Summit in order to get to know each other better, in an effort to explore opportunities for future synergies.
LALIZAS, has a long history in manufacturing lifesaving equipment following the strictest criteria, paying particular attention on the proper service of this equipment, with the goal to follow the lifecycle of the products, ensuring safety at sea. Thus, maritime service providers are really important for LALIZAS, as they play a crucial role on the best care and installation of lifesaving equipment.
During the Summit, LALIZAS had the chance to meet many of their partners in person & spend quality time together, getting to know each other better, combining business & pleasure.
The event garnered a high level of correspondence and engagement, with attendees actively participating in discussions, networking, and knowledge-sharing sessions.
LALIZAS had the opportunity to provide insights into their company’s structure as well as the development within the commercial & maritime markets.
Consultations on Fire Safety & Rescue (FSR) Services and the related Technician’s App led to very interesting discussions among LALIZAS Reps and guests.
What drew a lot of attention from the audience was the F&I (Fast & Independent) Liferaft Exchange, a unique proposal to Ship Managers/Owners for a simple and fast liferaft exchange with no contract & no commitment, which was discussed in depth, with real-case scenarios.
Various LSA (Life Saving Appliances) & FFE (Fire Fighting Equipment) products were also presented and displayed during the event.
The Summit offered a unique opportunity for LALIZAS to meet important partners from all over the world and discuss key issues that will help create smooth communication and establish synergies among them.
The event’s team of LaLiBay Resort & Spa, an established maritime hub on Aegina, helped to achieve the smooth running of the Summit.
LALIZAS says the presence and the active participation of the attendees truly made this event a memorable and fruitful experience!
Sener completes conceptual and basic engineering of two ice-class vessels with carbon capture systems for Grona Shipping
Spanish engineering and technology group Sener has developed the conceptual and basic engineering of two new vessels equipped with carbon capture systems for the German company Grona Shipping, capable of operating in freezing waters. These are two general cargo vessels of 6,000 and 9,100 tons, respectively.
Both vessels have a liquefied natural gas (LNG) propulsion system and incorporate CO2 capture systems, which can be located on top of the LNG tanks or as structural tanks (between the two cargo holds). These systems are an innovative technology that aims to help shipowners meet the decarbonisation targets set by the IMO and the EU, reducing the need to replace their ships’ propulsion systems. Likewise, the design conceived by Sener has optimised lines that will help to reduce the towing resistance of the vessels, improving their behaviour during navigation.
Grona Shipping is a company with a vocation to be a sustainable operator, with activity in the North Sea and the Baltic Sea, among others, where these vessels would enter into operation. By incorporating these vessels, it will advance in its mission to develop a fleet with low environmental impact that will help its clients to develop their business and protect the marine environment.
The design has been possible thanks to the knowledge acquired by Sener after decades of experience in the naval sector, providing conceptual, basic, and detailed engineering services, feasibility studies and consultancy work in areas such as digitalisation, use of alternative fuels and biofuels, emission cleaning technologies and the circular economy, among others.
Sener develops innovative technologies that facilitate the sector’s transition towards a more sustainable model. In this regard, Roberto Fernández, Director of Marine at Sener, says: “Decarbonising the naval sector is an important objective not only for this industry, but for the entire economy. This decarbonisation can be a lever for growth and innovation, proposing challenges that, solved through technology, take the sector to a new level. We are pleased to accompany Grona Shipping on this path towards reducing emissions from its fleet”.
Vice Admiral Sir Timothy Laurence appointed Patron of the International Maritime Rescue Federation
Vice Admiral Sir Timothy Laurence, the husband of Her Royal Highness the Princess Royal, has been named the Patron of the International Maritime Rescue Federation (IMRF), the world’s leading organisation for developing and improving maritime search and rescue (SAR) capabilities.
He replaces Sir Efthimios Mitropoulos, the Secretary-General Emeritus of the International Maritime Organization (IMO), who stepped down earlier this year, having been in the role since 2012.
Sir Tim holds a distinguished career as part of the UK’s Royal Navy, serving from the early 1970s upon leaving the University of Durham before retiring in 2010. His strong interest and background in maritime led to him being appointed to the Governing Council of the UK’s Royal National Lifeboat Institution in 2004, then to the Trustee Board and Chairman of the Operations Committee in 2011. He later became Deputy Chairman of the RNLI Board and, on retirement from the Board in 2020, became a Vice President.
As Patron, Sir Tim will become a leading voice and advocate for the work of the IMRF and maritime SAR organisations around the world, which continues to play a critical role in protecting and saving lives at sea.
“It is an honour to be appointed the new Patron of the IMRF, and I look forward to working closely with the organisation, its members and SAR personnel worldwide to advance the cause of safety at sea,” Sir Tim said.
Speaking about the appointment, Jacob Tas, Chair of the IMRF, said, “I am delighted that Sir Tim Laurence has accepted our invitation to become the new Patron of the IMRF. His tenure at the UK’s Royal Navy and his dedication to public service means he will be a fantastic supporter of the IMRF’s global work and the critical importance of maritime SAR organisations globally.”
Caroline Jupe, Chief Executive Officer of the IMRF, said, “The IMRF and its membership continue to play a major role in the maritime SAR sector as we look to prevent loss of life in the world’s waters. I am thrilled that Sir Tim has agreed to join the IMRF community as our new Patron, and I’m excited to see how we can work together to bolster the maritime SAR sector, tackle critical issues facing the sector and advance key initiatives to improve the lives of those working in a challenging industry.”
In addition to its work providing guidance and best practice for SAR operations, the IMRF has also launched a number of critical initiatives to improve the wellness and efficiency of SAR personnel, including its #WomenInSAR campaign, its #SARyouOK? mental health initiative and its #FutureSAR climate change awareness campaign.
The IMRF currently has 126 members from more than 50 countries.
Advanced Navigation opens high-tech robotics manufacturing facility
Advanced Navigation, an innovator in artificial intelligence (AI) for robotic and navigation technologies, has unveiled a new high-tech robotics facility for autonomous systems based at UTS Tech Lab in Botany, New South Wales (NSW), Australia.
The facility will scale up the manufacturing of Advanced Navigation’s world-first AI navigation systems for GPS-denied environments, including its digital fibre-optic gyroscope (DFOG) technology, Boreas.
Advanced Navigation is one of only four companies in the world with the capability to manufacture strategic grade fibre-optic gyroscopes. This technology empowers reliable navigation for marine vessels, space missions, aerospace, defence, autonomous vehicles and flying taxis. The company deploys its unique AI-based physics algorithms to solve complex challenges earth-bound and beyond.
Xavier Orr, Advanced Navigation CEO and co-founder, said: “There is a critical need to improve Australia’s economic complexity and sovereign capabilities. A key step is to build our industrial capacity in high-tech, as well as drive knowledge exchange and propel collaborative initiatives between government agencies, academic institutions and industry leaders.”
KPI OceanConnect appoints Melvin Lum as Commercial Director for Global Accounts team in Singapore
KPI OceanConnect, a leading global marine energy solutions provider, has announced the appointment of Melvin Lum as Commercial Director for its Global Accounts team in Singapore. Melvin will take on the position of Commercial Director from Thomas Lee who was recently promoted to Head of APAC in a management restructure within KPI OceanConnect.
The Global Accounts team is an expert unit within KPI OceanConnect, specialised in providing long-term, tailored fuel strategy solutions to a portfolio of Key Accounts on a global scale. Dedicated regional teams located in London, Houston and Singapore work seamlessly across the world and around the clock to support their clients.
Lum (pictured) joined KPI OceanConnect in 2021 as Senior Key Account manager and has made a significant contribution to the development of the team and optimisation of the daily operations of the unit in Singapore. Lum has vast experience across the supply chain and previously worked with TotalEnergies, Glencore and Global Energy Group prior to joining KPI OceanConnect.
Henrik Zederkof, Head of Global Accounts at KPI OceanConnect, said: "It is always a pleasure to witness the growth of our team members, and Melvin's progression is no exception. I have full confidence in Melvin's expertise, ability to lead the unit and dedication to his team. I look forward to seeing the progress of Melvin and his team, which will undoubtedly bring significant value to our numerous partners and the wider organisation.”
"Melvin will assume a pivotal role within the Global Accounts management team, leveraging his extensive experience in supply chain management and profound insight into emerging technologies. In his new role, Melvin will further enhance our team's skill set, aligning them with our ongoing objectives of supporting our partners in their green transition and digitalisation endeavours."
Melvin Lum, Commercial Director of KPI OceanConnect Global Accounts in Singapore, said: "I am very appreciative of the support and confidence from our management team as I take on this exciting new role. I am enthusiastic to work with the team as we continue to deliver an exceptional experience to our partners and stakeholders with dedication, innovation and passion."
KPI OceanConnect strives to provide tailored career development opportunities across all functions and supports each team member to excel throughout their career journey. The Get Fuelled programme (link) offers a structured 2 year education for new traders which enables continuous professional and personal advancement within the business. This approach underpins KPI OceanConnect’s long-term partnership approach by fostering a passion for the profession and retention of expertise, thereby reinforcing its position as a leading company in the marine energy sector.
Zelim teams up with US Coast Guard to trial AI in search and rescue
The US Coast Guard Research and Development Center has signed a Cooperative Research and Development Agreement (CRADA) with Zelim, a start-up based in Edinburgh, Scotland, to jointly explore the potential application and effectiveness of AI-enabled detection and tracking technology in search and rescue.
Over the last three years, Zelim has been developing ZOE, a solution that employs AI to detect and track multiple people, boats or target objects in the water by day or night, storm, or fog. Like the driving aids that reduce driver fatigue, provide hazard alerts and timely information in cars, ZOE aids the search operator by consistently scanning the searched area looking for anomalies and providing visual and audible alerts.
The US Coast Guard has identified in its Strategic Plan that rapidly advancing technologies, including those in artificial intelligence, and machine learning need to be harnessed for possible use in mission execution. The ability to detect, locate, characterize, identify, and track people or objects in the water in near or real-time has the potential to improve mission support to meet the needs of the Coast Guard today and in the foreseeable future.
Captain Chien, Commanding Officer of the USCG RDC stated: “The Coast Guard Research and Development Center investigates and develops methodologies and technologies to improve Coast Guard Mission Performance. Both the Research and Development Center and Zelim are interested in better understanding the potential contribution of AI detection technologies to improve maritime safety, security, and stewardship.”
The overarching objective of the CRADA is to determine methods to evaluate the effectiveness of AI technology with unclassified optical sensors in various environmental conditions. This will require the Coast Guard and Zelim to scientifically develop an objective method for determining AI technology effectiveness compared to current accepted standards.
Doug Lothian CTO of Zelim said: “We have developed ZOE as a tool to support search and rescue units, making it easier for them to spot and track multiple people and boats in the water, whatever the conditions. We are extremely proud to be partnering with the US Coast Guard, who operate the world’s largest SAR fleet. Bringing their operational experience into the project is vital to making sure the technology meets the needs of SAR operators now and in the future.”
Decarbonised supply chains ‘a thing of the present’ - APM Terminals CEO Svendsen
Decarbonised ports, as well as ships are proof that the supply chain transformation is happening here and now, says APM Terminals’ CEO Keith Svendsen.
APM Terminals is already sourcing some 40% of all the electricity it consumes globally from renewable sources – a nearly four-fold increase from 11% in 2020.
One of the company's three breakthrough objectives, decarbonisation will be achieved by 2040 through electrification, energy optimisation, and sourcing of 100% renewable electricity such as solar energy, he confirmed.
Svendsen was speaking at an event to mark the first call of the world's first methanol-powered container ship at APM Terminals’ Maasvlakte II in Rotterdam. Compared with conventionally powered container ships, Laura reduces emissions by 65%.
The arrival of the Laura Maersk was “another good example of purpose in action,” said Svendsen. The vessel is “a game changer” in the decarbonisation efforts of the shipping and port logistics industry, he said.
The 172-metre-long vessel was named last week by European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen at a ceremony in Copenhagen, attended by Svendsen, and APM Terminals’ Head of Decarbonisation, Sahar Rashidbeigi.
Applauding the speed at which the Laura Maersk was developed – at around seven years ahead of estimations made as recently as five years ago – Svendsen said the key to her fast delivery lay in partnership.
As such, he called on APM Terminals’ partners – the governments, regulators, customers, vendors, and suppliers – to “act now – fast and together" to accelerate and scale decarbonisation and the energy transition to "reduce greenhouse gas emissions holistically in the transport chain.”
APM Terminals has committed to fully decarbonising its terminal operations by 2040, the advancement on its initial finishing line by 10 years.
Speaking on the quay alongside the Laura Maersk, he said the ship marks a crucial first step for the shipping sector and supply chains. Capable of carrying 2,136 TEU the Laura Maersk is a relatively small – yet symbolic – ship, said Svendsen.
More than 100 vessels of all types with methanol engines are in global orderbooks, however. Svendsen said: "We expect to see methanol fuelled ships from Maersk and other shipping lines here in Rotterdam. The faster we create a big market for green fuels, the better and cheaper availability will be.
"We are in times in which we will create an ecosystem that will collectively reduce emissions from shipping and logistics much faster than we could have hoped," he said.
Partners support emission reductions on Rotterdam-Singapore Green & Digital Shipping Corridor
The Maritime and Port Authority of Singapore (MPA), the Port of Rotterdam Authority (PoR) and 20 partners in the Green & Digital Shipping Corridor are working to reduce 20% to 30% of emissions from international shipping by 2030. This was agreed at the third Green Corridor workshop, held earlier this month in Rotterdam.
The Green & Digital Shipping Corridor was established in August 2022 to bring together partners across the supply chain to realise zero and near-zero emissions shipping on the Rotterdam-Singapore route, with the ultimate aim to reach net-zero emissions in 2050. Over the past year, the corridor attracted strong support from global value-chain partners, including shipping lines, port authorities and operators, fuel suppliers, fuel coalitions and associations, banks, leading institutes of higher learning and knowledge partners.
The project partners are working towards reducing greenhouse gas emissions from this international shipping corridor by 20%, striving for 30%, by 2030, compared to 2022. The corridor will continue to deepen efforts towards achieving the strengthened ambition of the IMO under its 2023 Strategy on Reduction of GHG Emissions from Ships. This is to be achieved through the development and uptake of zero and near-zero emission fuels in large containers vessels (of at least 8,000 TEU) deployed on the 15,000 km route, supported by a combination of operational and digital efficiencies.
A modelling study led by the Mærsk Mc-Kinney Møller Center for Zero-Carbon Shipping, one of the corridor partners for the project, and supported by the ports, explored multiple alternative fuels across a variety of zero and near-zero emission pathways, including synthetic and bio-variants of methanol, ammonia and LNG. Beyond the study, hydrogen is one other alternative fuel pathway to be looked at. Efforts are underway to aggregate demand and supply to reduce cost gap towards adoption of sustainable fuels.
Working groups have been established to look into the deployment of all of these fuels on the trade lane, spanning across demand and supply of fuel, standards, safety procedures, financing and regulations. The corridor partners gathered in Rotterdam this week to identify action steps for the various fuel pathways.
Low carbon fuels will likely be more expensive than existing fuels. Therefore, a separate working group has been formed with the support of the Global Maritime Forum, the Centre for Maritime Studies of the National University of Singapore, University of Oxford, and Citi, to address gaps in regulation and financing. The study includes modelling price-gap differences to incentivise the uptake of alternative fuels.
In addition, Singapore and Rotterdam have jointly assessed the readiness of both ports and steps ahead such as adopting similar bunkering standards and safety frameworks to accelerate the adoption of zero and near-zero emission fuels on this major trade route. This was put into action in Q3 2023 with the conduct of ship-to-ship green methanol bunkering on the world’s first methanol-fuelled container ship at both Port of Singapore and Rotterdam.
The partners believe that the corridor’s approach, supported by the strong industry coalition will provide greater certainty in demand and help scale-up production of zero and near-zero emission fuels. This will help to close the cost gap and encourage even wider adoption of such fuels.
Rotterdam and Singapore are the first ports adopting and sharing port and vessel information such as arrival and departure timings in accordance with global standards, namely the IMO & International Hydrographic Organization (IHO) standards to enable systems interoperability. Both ports are also promoting the use of electronic bills of lading and digital solutions such as just-in-time planning and coordination to enhance efficiencies and reduce GHG emissions.
Partners in the Rotterdam-Singapore Green & Digital Shipping Corridor are: MPA, PoR, A.P. Moller Maersk A/S, bp, the Centre for Maritime Studies of the National University of Singapore, Citi, Clifford Capital, CMA CGM, Digital Container Shipping Association, the Global Centre for Maritime Decarbonisation, the Global Maritime Forum, the Mærsk Mc-Kinney Møller Center for Zero-Carbon Shipping, Methanol Institute, MSC, Nanyang Technological University Maritime Energy and Sustainable Development Centre of Excellence, Ocean Network Express, PSA International, RMI , SEA-LNG, Shell, University of Oxford, Yara Clean Ammonia.
Xeneta data reveals first rise in long-term ocean freight rates in a year
After a full year of seemingly freefalling ocean freight rates, the latest market data from Oslo’s Xeneta suggests the industry may finally have reached a turning point. According to the Xeneta Shipping Index (XSI), which tracks real-time rates developments on a month-to-month basis, September saw an increase of 0.2% in valid, global long-term contracted rates. This follows on from 12 consecutive months of falls, which have wiped 62.2% off market prices since August 2022.
“It’s too early to say if this is a fundamental, lasting shift,” comments Peter Sand (pictured), Chief Analyst, Xeneta. “But, despite the very small scale of the gain, it’s a significant development after such a prolonged period of decline. The reasons behind that are complex, but a campaign of coordinated capacity management by carriers – restricting capacity on the largest trades – allied to some limited improvement in the demand picture have clearly had an impact.
“In recent weeks and months, we’ve already seen spot rates move above long-term rates on key corridors, suggesting that long-term rates would eventually follow suit and start climbing. It’s still very difficult to predict this dynamic market, especially given the rampant overcapacity, but - if carriers can continue their united, proactive capacity management – this first increase probably won’t be the last. Shippers with the flexibility to negotiate new long-term contracts now should bear that in mind.”
Sand points out that evidence of a coming change has been gathering. May’s monthly collapse of 27.5% in the global XSI was followed by falls of 9.4% and 9.5% in June and July, decreasing to 7.8% in August. At the same time spot rates on the main Transpacific corridor have more than doubled this quarter, largely due to the aforementioned, strict capacity management.
“However,” states Sand, “the good news for carriers will be tempered by the fact that rates are still very low. In fact, the global XSI is down 16.5% quarter-on-quarter and this will be reflected in the industry’s results for the period, especially with regard to those carriers most exposed to the long-term market. So, yes, there is cause for cautious optimism here, but I’d hardly say the industry is ‘out of the woods’ just yet.”
Abu Dhabi conference makes strong case for determined climate change action
The inaugural Transportation and Climate Change Conference (TACCC), which attracted more than 300 top-level delegates to the Saadiyat Rotana Resort in Abu Dhabi this week, highlighted the need for strong, concerted action to achieve climate change and sustainability goals.
The event commenced in the esteemed presence of H.E. Ahmed Jasim Al Zaabi, Chairman of the Abu Dhabi Department of Economic Development, who attended as the guest of honour, along with Capt. Mohamed Juma Al Shamisi, Managing Director and Group CEO of AD Ports Group.
The keynote address was delivered by Capt. Abdulkareem Al Masabi (pictured), CEO of ADNOC Logistics & Services, who emphasised the importance of industry-wide collaboration.
Session 1 of TACCC, which addressed the theme ‘Tackling Transportation's Contribution to Climate Change: Setting the Course for a Sustainable Future’, witnessed presentations by senior executives all of whom are spearheading change in their respective domains. Speakers in this pivotal session included Eng. Shadi Malak, CEO, Etihad Rail; Antononaldo Neves, CEO, Etihad Aviation Group; Julian Mylchreest, Executive Vice Chairman, Global Corporate & Investment Banking, Bank of America; Sanjay Mehta, Chairman of S One Capital; Abdullah Al Hameli, CEO, Economic Cities & Free Zones, AD Ports Group; Rania Tadros, Managing Partner at Stephenson Harwood Middle East; and James Frew, Global Head of Business Advisory - Decarbonisation Lead at Lloyd's Register.
Following an engaging Q&A session and a networking luncheon, Session 2, chaired by industry luminary Sanjay Mehta, revolved around ‘Sustainable Ports, Logistics, and Aviation: Redesigning Operations and Technology for a Greener Future’. The line-up of speakers included Emile Hoogsteden, CEO, SOHAR Port & Freezone; Jonathan Andrews, CEO, Steamship Mutual; Antonio Campoy, CEO, Noatum Group, Logistics Cluster, AD Ports Group; Gonzalo Conseco, Director of Research & Development, Onepoint5 & Former Senior Advisor to the Secretariat of the UNFCCC; Mohammad Jaber, Managing Director, Air & Sea and COO Abu Dhabi, DSV Solutions Abu Dhabi; and Matthew Luckhurst, Managing Director, APM Terminals Bahrain. Collectively they explored innovative strategies across the transportation sector and made a number of valuable suggestions for future action.
The conference concluded with Session 3, focusing on ‘Navigating the Operational, Technological, Legal, and Financial Hurdles to Change’. Moderated by leading maritime lawyer Rania Tadros of Stephenson Harwood, the session featured speakers including Emil Pellicer, General Counsel, AD Ports Group; Nitin Mehta, Group COO at Lila Global; Carlos Guerrero Pozuelo, Global Market Leader for Gas Carriers, Bureau Veritas Marine & Offshore; Farooq Zuberi, CFO, APM Terminals Bahrain; Ravi Jawani, Partner, Fichte & Co; Vijay Arora, Managing Director, Indian Register of Shipping; and Hamed Fathi, Director and head of Legal at the IME Group. Spanning a wide range of maritime activities, these speakers comprehensively addressed the complex challenges faced by the industry, providing valuable insights into how they can be overcome.
Trevor Pereira, MD of organiser The Maritime Standard (TMS), emphasised the crucial timing of the event, just weeks before the COP28 climate change conference in the UAE, and hard on the heels of the IMO setting more ambitious GHG reduction goals for the maritime industry.
RVOS orders fleetwide installation of Praxis Automation DP-2 systems
Praxis Automation, a global leader in ship automation, electrical propulsion and dynamic positioning systems, announced that it has been awarded a long-term collaborative contract by Rawabi Vallianz Offshore Services (RVOS), a Saudi world class support service provider to the offshore industry. RVOS is one of the offshore service companies of Rawabi Energy company.
Under this RVOS fleet-wide contract, new build and existing offshore support vessels will be equipped with Praxis dynamic positioning systems, as well as customised equipment and software for digitization of the fleet in phases agreed with RVOS. This collaboration marks a pivot point in advancing maritime technology and safety in the gulf region.
In total Praxis Automation will supply 59 shipsets of Praxis DP-2 systems under this contract, facilitating a remarkable transformation of RVOS's fleet capabilities. This comprehensive project encompasses the conversion of 39 vessels with existing DP systems to Praxis DP-2 System, including the supply to 20 newbuild vessels ordered by RVOS from other regions in the world.
Ahmed Alqadeeb, Managing Director of Rawabi Energy, said: "Our fleet's operational success hinges on a strong technology partnership. Praxis Automation has proven their performance during an earlier successful DP-1 to DP-2 retrofit project on 14 RVOS ships, justifying their status as a solid and reliable technology partner. With this new contract, we will boost our fleet status, having the most modern offshore support vessel (OSV) fleet in the kingdom, renowned for its technological prowess and digitalized operations catering to the needs of Saudi Aramco.”
Jerome Lin, Sales Director at Praxis Automation Far East, highlighted the pivotal role played by Praxis during the earlier 14 ships DP-2 refit program, in the success of this new contract. "Together with our local partner Integrated Maritime Service in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, Praxis Automation not only supplied the advanced DP-2 systems, but also extended its technological partnership to encompass the digitalization initiatives of RVOS's fleet. Our commitment to guarantee through-life-support and non-obsolete parts throughout the vessel's operational lifespan is paramount in ensuring uninterrupted vessel operations within the kingdom."
This collaboration allows Praxis Automation’s to display its commitment and support to RVOS in providing cutting-edge maritime technology solutions that enhance safety, efficiency, and digitalization in the maritime industry, laying the foundation towards setting new standards of excellence in the offshore sector.
HEMEXPO welcomes LALIZAS as latest member company
The association of Hellenic Marine Equipment Manufacturers and Exporters (HEMEXPO) has welcomed LALIZAS as its 34th member company.
As a manufacturer and supplier of high-quality life-saving equipment and accessories, LALIZAS adds a critical new area of expertise to the ever-expanding cross-section of Greek equipment manufacturers represented on HEMEXPO’s list of members. The company’s extensive product portfolio covers everything from life jackets and immersion suits to navigation lights and buoys, while its onboard inspection services ensure systems such as firefighting equipment, life boats and breathing apparatus are maintained to the highest standards.
Headquartered in Piraeus, Greece, LALIZAS has a global network comprising branches in several European countries, the United States, South Africa, the United Arab Emirates and China. Its operations are certified by Bureau Veritas as per ISO 9001:2015 requirements.
“While all vessel systems should be developed and maintained to extremely high standards, this is particularly true of life-saving equipment, which represents the last line of defence in emergency situations at sea,” commented Eleni Polychronopoulou (pictured), HEMEXPO President.
“The emphasis LALIZAS places on the quality of its products and services makes it a trusted supplier to ship owners and operators worldwide, and we are very pleased to welcome it as the latest HEMEXPO member.”
Representing Greek maritime technology specialists on the global stage, HEMEXPO maintains relationships with ship owners, classification societies and shipyards to understand the issues facing the industry and define the best technical solutions. HEMEXPO members are on the approved suppliers lists of over 50 shipyards worldwide, and LALIZAS is the latest company to gain access to this extensive network.
“For Greek maritime equipment manufacturers like us, the benefits of joining HEMEXPO are significant,” said Stavros Lalizas, CEO and Founder, LALIZAS. “Membership to the association will help us to identify and seize openings in new and existing markets and deliver our solutions and services to an even greater global audience. We look forward to collaborating with HEMEXPO and the opportunities that come with it.”
MacGregor wins large RoRo equipment order for two methanol-fuelled PCTC
MacGregor, part of Cargotec, has been chosen to deliver RoRo equipment for two of the world's first methanol-fuelled Pure Car and Truck Carriers (PCTC) for China Merchant Energy Shipping to be built at China Merchants Heavy Industry (Jiangsu) Co., Ltd. in China.
The order was booked into Cargotec’s 2023 third quarter orders. The vessels are to be delivered to the owner between the third and fourth quarter of 2025.
MacGregor´s scope of supply is to design and deliver the key components consisting of external and internal ramps, covers, electrically operated doors, and liftable car decks, as well as installation support.
MacGregor was selected as the supplier for the reliability of its products and solutions. The customer was convinced of the competitiveness of MacGregor's offerings and extensive service network. The highlight of the order were innovations such as Soft Flaps, which reduce noise in the harbour, and Ramp Position Indicator, the unique stern ramp landing surveillance system that allows the crew to see exactly where the ramp will land before operations start.
“As CMES is an important PCTC operator, we are pleased to be part of their new projects for the first time. We will do our best to build trust and cooperation in the future. We also have high appreciation for the very good cooperation with CMHI in many ongoing projects,” says Magnus Sjöberg, Senior Vice President, Merchant Solutions, MacGregor.
IACS enhances its Unified Requirements (URs) on Cyber Safety
To address the need to enhance the cyber resilience of ships in an increasingly digitalized world, last year IACS published UR E26 ‘Cyber Resilience of Ships’, and UR E27, ‘Cyber Resilience of On-Board Systems and Equipment’, which applied to new ships from 1 January 2024.
Since the publication of these requirements, and as experience of cyber security oversight in the maritime sector grows, the need for a standardized approach to survey requirements has been identified along with further enhancements resulting from industry feedback.
Additionally, and to address the challenges regarding the implementation of new cyber requirements in smaller and non-conventional vessels, the scope of applicability of these URs have been categorised as mandatory and non-mandatory compliance depending on vessel types and sizes.
These improvements have resulted in extensive changes to the two URs and so they will now supersede the originals and will be applied to new ships contracted for construction on and after 1 July 2024. To avoid confusion, the original versions, along with their previous application date of 1 Jan 2024, have been withdrawn. The revised version of URE27 is available on the IACS website (https://iacs.org.uk/resolutions/unified-requirements/ur-e). The revised version of URE26 is still being finalized and will be published before the end of the year.
IACS Secretary General, Robert Ashdown (pictured), said ‘Incorporating industry feedback to ensure IACS requirements are clear in their applicability and are capable of being consistently applied in ship surveys, is important in ensuring that measures to enhance cyber resilience have the desired impact. As a result, and given that the original requirements had not yet entered into force, IACS has decided to apply only the revised requirements from 1 July 2024. It is believed that industry will welcome the clarity that this decision brings.’
Alma Clean Power, Odfjell and DNV developing Solid Oxide Fuel Cell system for deep-sea shipping
At the Singapore Norway Innovation Conference (SNIC) in Singapore 28th- 29th of September, Alma Clean Power, Odfjell and DNV announced a new milestone in the development of a solid oxide fuel cell (SOFC) system. The fuel cell system will be installed on a chemical tanker by the end of 2024, aiming to demonstrate the potential for significantly lower fuel consumption and CO2 emissions for deep-sea shipping.
As the maritime industry faces major challenges adjusting to zero emissions over the next decades, fuel cells demonstrate a promising potential for scalable use for longer distances and larger energy needs in shipping. It is therefore vital to start gathering practical onboard experience with fuel cells, without compromising on safety.
Solid oxide fuel cells (SOFC) are fuel flexible, and can convert fuels like ammonia, LNG, methanol and hydrogen to electricity with a potentially higher energy efficiency than internal combustion engines. With a maritime solid oxide fuel cells solution, shipping companies will be able to reduce emissions short term and operate emission-free once alternative fuels become available.
The project partners intend to place an 80KW natural gas fuelled solid oxide fuel cell container on board one of Odfjell’s chemical tankers, to demonstrate SOFC as an efficient energy converter for deep-sea shipping. In January 2023, Alma Clean Power was awarded DNV’s Approval in Principle (AiP) for their design of a 1MW ammonia fuelled SOFC system.
Alma Clean Power and Odfjell have a long-term collaboration in joint development projects and are excited to start the marine demonstrator project together with DNV.
“We are very excited about this collaboration with Odfjell and DNV,” says Bernt Skeie, CEO of Alma Clean Power. “Odfjell, for continued support through years of development and recognizing this project as a great opportunity for innovation and testing on board their vessel, and DNV for bringing in the broad expertise of a classification society, applying their rule framework and ensuring a thorough risk-based approach to the design, construction, installation and operation onboard the vessel.”
“We’ve been working structured and actively with energy-efficiency technologies and decarbonization for more than a decade, and this project represents another progressive step in energy efficiency, fuel flexibility and zero emissions capability innovations,” says Harald Fotland, CEO of Odfjell. “We look forward to continuing the collaboration with DNV and Alma Clean Power, and to document the impact this technology can deliver in our common quest to decarbonize deep-sea shipping.”
"This is an exciting project for DNV to be part of with two very forward-leaning partners,” says Tuva Flagstad-Andersen, Regional Manager Maritime – North Europe. ”Identifying a suitable risk level and applying DNV’s existing rule framework will be key to managing the risks of the installation. At the same time, the project provides an ample opportunity to learn from the practical application to further improve our rules and guidelines and use this input to facilitate constructive dialogues with the applicable Flag Authorities.”
Med Marine successfully delivers MED-A2575 series azimuth stern drive tugboat to Cafimar Group
Turkish shipbuilder and leading tugboat operator Med Marine and Cafimar Group through its subsidiary Somat S.p.A. signed a contract for the construction of a MED-A2575 RAmparts 2500W tug designed by Robert Allan in March 2023.
The vessel was built at Eregli Shipyard in the Zonguldak region of Turkey. Construction of the vessel was completed in September 2023. The MED-A2575 is a 25-metre, 70-ton bollard pull and is designed to comfortably accommodate a crew of 7 in its living quarters with a controlled climate.
Med Marine’s unit was chosen by Somat S.p.A. due to its wide range of operational capacities such as terminal escort, and harbour towage operation with fire-fighting systems. The vessel will be operated by Somat S.p.A. at the port of Civitavecchia-Palermo-Trapani-Porto Empedocle-Gela-Termini Imerese-Marsala-Licata.
Med Marine’s Sales Director Melis Üçüncü commented on the delivery: “The successful collaboration among all the teams involved has played a significant role in fostering strong business connections with Somat S.p.A. We take immense pride in our partnership and the opportunity to work together with Somat S.p.A. on this occasion.”
Cafimar’s C.E.O. Alessandro Russo commented on the delivery: “Once again we have placed our trust in Med Marine and once again we receive a brilliant response, taking delivery of a very efficient tug which represents a new milestone in the modernization of our fleet. We are sure that our new building tug will help the Company to increase the quality of the service provided to our clients in Sicily.”
ABS brings global experts and maritime industry leaders together for nuclear energy forum in Washington, D.C.
“Nuclear energy has moved beyond a wildcard option and into the mainstream of potential solutions for a more sustainable maritime industry. Nuclear energy is not just about the potential for a reactor to operate on a ship. With advanced nuclear technology, the potential is so much more.”
That was the message from ABS Chairman and Chief Executive Officer Christopher J. Wiernicki, who welcomed nuclear energy experts, government representatives, academia, and senior maritime industry leaders from around the world for the very well-attended ABS forum, The Role of Advanced Nuclear Technologies in the Maritime Energy Transition in Washington, D.C.
“We see nuclear energy as an enabler for producing clean energy and clean fuels and as a power source for ship propulsion,” said Wiernicki. “Modern nuclear and renewable based energy systems extend our line of sight of solutions to achieve net zero by 2050.”
The full-day conference confirmed the potential for advanced nuclear technologies in the maritime domain to provide a game-changing clean energy transition safely with project implementations likely to occur in the next 10 to 12 years.
Representatives from global shipyards and ship designers, nuclear technology developers, nuclear and maritime industry associations, academia and a variety of government agencies engaged in discussions in four panels moderated by ABS on technology maturity, regulatory and safety/risk considerations, maritime industry readiness, and port infrastructure readiness.
“The developmental path for nuclear energy at sea will require a concerted public-private effort in which innovation and system technologies are reduced to practice through modelling and simulation with a laser focus on safety,” said Wiernicki.
“Government support is critical. There is a real opportunity right now for forward-thinking governments to drive the agenda with practical projects by providing real applications of advanced nuclear technology in a government controlled and regulated environment. Government applications on dredges, strategic sealift vessels, ice breakers, and research vessels may be a great place to start,” he said.
The day before the forum, Wiernicki hosted a congressional briefing on Capitol Hill in coordination with the National Reactor Innovation Center (NRIC) and the bipartisan House Advanced Nuclear Caucus, including introductory comments by caucus members Rep. Chuck Fleischmann (TN-03) and Rep. Byron Donalds (FL-19). Wiernicki emphasized that turning advanced nuclear technology into a practical reality for the maritime industry is an important tool for helping the maritime industry achieve net zero by 2050 and has the potential to grow economic opportunity and high-tech jobs in the maritime industry.
ABS is playing a leading role in helping government and industry shape the future of advanced nuclear technology in the maritime domain, including key research with the U.S. Department of Energy and multiple New Technology Qualification and Approval-in-Principle projects with industry. At the forum, ABS announced a major new initiative on ABS Rules for nuclear technology on maritime assets, and ABS confirmed its support for government and industry efforts to update outdated international and domestic regulations on the topic.
HFW enters agreement with Emirates Shipping Association
Global, sector-focused law firm has entered into a cooperation agreement with the Emirates Shipping Association – the voice of the UAE's private maritime sector and one of the leading maritime associations internationally.
HFW assisted in establishing and registering the Association at a federal level and has been providing it with continuous legal and strategic support.
The new agreement will see the firm continue that legal and strategic support, initially for a period of two years.
HFW's team advising the Association includes Yaman Alhawamdeh and Marc Ghammachi.
Yaman Alhawamdeh, UAE Managing Partner, HFW:
"As the world's leading shipping law firm, with the largest shipping and logistics team in the Middle East, we are proud to support the UAE shipping community. Our ongoing work with the Emirates Shipping Association gives us an opportunity to help promote and develop the UAE's maritime sector, and we look forward to progressing this strategic collaboration.
"This also goes towards HFW's commitment in supporting the UAE's In-Country Value program in terms of increasing the private sector's contribution to research and development in the maritime sector."
HFW is widely recognised as the world's premier shipping and maritime law firm, and has been serving clients in the industry for almost 140 years. The firm has more than 200 shipping lawyers and 13 Master Mariners across its global network, specialising in dry shipping, admiralty and crisis management, and transactional work.
HFW has operated in the Middle East for more than 15 years and now has 20 partners and over 50 lawyers in total across offices in Abu Dhabi, Dubai, Kuwait City and Riyadh. The firm recently boosted its leading UAE shipping and offshore marine practice with the hire of top-ranked partners Robert Lawrence and Ian Chung, making it the clear number one team in the region for both disputes and transactional matters.
The Nautical Institute announces first Institute of Leadership and Management courses
The Nautical Institute is delighted to announce that its Institute of Leadership and Management (ILM) courses, developed in collaboration with The Seafarers’ Charity, are now open for bookings.
The Nautical Institute, with input from The Seafarers’ Charity, has developed a portfolio of Leadership and Management courses that meet the need for a common learning journey for all seagoing and shore-based staff in a maritime organisation. The first courses will run from 16th October 2023.
In addition to incorporating all mandated and proposed STCW requirements, the ILM courses include training specifically created to overcome shortcomings that have been highlighted within the industry. The courses range from undergraduate to Masters’ degree levels of study and require the students to apply theory to practice in their work environment using reflective practice.
Stephen Window, Head of The Nautical Institute Academy, said: “The operational performance of a maritime organisation can be improved markedly through investing in the development of skills across both seagoing and shore-based staff. These new courses, which have been developed to improve the leadership skills of everyone working in maritime, are open to all personnel in the industry, whether ship or shore based, and are delivered online.”
The Nautical Institute is pleased to be able to offer the Level 3 pathway at an introductory rate of £750.00 (usually £1500.00). The offer will be valid until 31 December 2023. The level 5 pathway commences in January 2024 and will be available at an introductory rate of £850.00 (usually £1600.00), offer valid until 31 March 2024. Both offers additionally include 12 months free membership of The NI and the ILM.
Furthermore, the courses are accredited by the Institute of Leadership and Management with internationally recognised vocational qualifications (level 3 to level 7).
Further information is available on the NI Academy’s dedicated Leadership Programmes page.
Three suction sails from bound4blue to be installed on LDA Ro-Ro Ville de Bordeaux.
Airbus will equip one of the vessels it uses to transport aircraft subassemblies, chartered from shipowner Louis Dreyfus Armateurs (LDA), with a wind-assisted propulsion technology that captures wind energy to generate thrust and, therefore, delivers savings in fuel consumption and CO2 emissions.
The eSAIL, developed by the Spain-based firm bound4blue, creates as much as six to seven times more lift than a conventional rigid sail. It consists of a sail-like vertical surface and an electric-powered air suction system that helps the airflow to re-adhere to the sail, generating additional lift and thereby reducing the load on the ship’s main engines.
Three 22-metre-high eSAILs will be fitted to the Ville de Bordeaux ahead of a six-month performance monitoring period starting early 2024. The Ville de Bordeaux regularly ferries A320 Family subassemblies from Europe to Mobile in the United States for final assembly.
Fitting the eSAILs on the Ville de Bordeaux supports Airbus’ commitment to halve CO2 emissions from its maritime operations by 2030, compared to a 2015 baseline. According to bound4blue estimations, these eSAILs could deliver fuel and CO2 emissions savings of up to 560 tons and 1,800 tons respectively for this ship annually.
The installation of eSAILs on the Ville de Bordeaux is co-funded by the European Union.
“We at Airbus have been studying wind-assisted technologies as a potential energy source for our maritime operations for many years,” said Nicolas Chrétien, Head of Sustainability & Environment at Airbus. “As we embark on an exciting journey with our partners LDA and bound4blue, we reaffirm our ambition to explore all innovation pathways to develop more sustainable maritime solutions and further reduce the carbon footprint of our industrial operations. This technology looks promising and we are eager to start testing it in real conditions by the end of the year.”
“At Louis Dreyfus Armateurs, we are committed to supporting the decarbonization of the shipping industry, achieving net-zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2050,” said Mathieu Muzeau, Transport & Logistic General Manager at LDA. “Wind-assisted propulsion is one of the solutions we believe will help us reach this objective.
“To determine the best technology for our operations, we are eager to identify and test various forms of wind-assisted propulsion, including rotating vertical cylinders, flexible sails, rigid sails, and wings. We are pleased to announce that we will soon install bound4blue’s eSAILs on our Ro-Ro vessel, Ville de Bordeaux, which we operate for Airbus.”
David Ferrer, CTO of bound4blue, said: “After having implemented and proven our technology on three ships already, we’re excited to install our 22-metre eSAILs on Ville de Bordeaux. This deployment will mark the first-ever fixed suction sail installation on a Ro-Ro ship, demonstrating that suction sails can be deployed on ships with high weather deck and large windage area, not compromising the vessel’s stability.”
ClassNK releases ‘Guidelines for Fuel Cell Power Systems On Board Ships (Second Edition)’
ClassNK has released ‘Guidelines for Fuel Cell Power Systems On Board Ships (Second Edition)’, which cover safety provisions related to the design of ships powered by fuel cells as well as fuel cell power systems themselves, coming in anticipation of the growing adoption of fuel cells in maritime transport.
Fuel cells are power systems that use electrical energy obtained from the chemical reaction between hydrogen and oxygen. Notably, they do not emit CO2 during electricity generation, positioning them as a potential solution to help reduce GHG emissions from shipping.
On the other hand, the use of fuel cells entails handling hydrogen, which has many physical properties distinct from conventional fuel gases. To ensure safety, it is critical to take sufficient measures. Discussions are currently underway at the IMO to amend the International Code of Safety for Ships Using Gases or Other Low-Flashpoint Fuels (IGF Code) to include provisions specific to fuel cells. At MSC105, the interim Guidelines for the safety of ships using fuel cell power installations were approved.
In this recent update, ClassNK has incorporated the contents of the IMO Interim Guidelines into its Guidelines for Fuel Cell Power Systems On Board Ships (Second Edition). These guidelines outline the latest safety measures for installing fuel cell power in vessels, including design principles for related equipment, fire safety, electrical systems, control, monitoring, and safety systems.
The guidelines also set out requirements for a class notation for vessels that meet these provisions. Moreover, an annex detailing the examination requirements for fuel cell power systems, based on relevant IEC standards and regulations, has been added.
The guidelines are available to download on ClassNK’s website.
Separately, ClassNK is hosting an ‘EU-ETS Seminar - Get Ready for EU Allowance in the Shipping Sector" at M Hotel in Singapore on 11 October between 13:00-17:00 (SST). There will be no virtual attendance option available but a recording will be available for viewing at a later date. For attendance in-person, registration is necessary via https://forms.gle/178TYSDYYUnuYxfQA
MLA College hosts 2nd virtual open day
Distance learning specialist MLA College extends a warm invitation to its upcoming virtual open day, on Wednesday 1 November 2023 at 10am, an event tailored to provide prospective students with a comprehensive understanding of what courses are available from January 2024.
“If you regret missing our previous open day in July, rest assured that this is your golden opportunity to immerse yourself in the world of MLA College and get all the essential information you need,” it says.
The virtual open day is designed to offer aspiring students a deep dive into the wealth of resources and advantages that come with being part of MLA College and its distance learning experience. Discover how MLA seamlessly blends flexibility with academic excellence to ensure that their student’s educational journey is as enriching as it is convenient.
Participants will also receive valuable insights into student finance, fees, and the student support network available to help them thrive academically, as an MLA student. “What sets this open day apart is the exceptional opportunity to engage directly with our esteemed MLA College faculty members,” says the college.
“In conclusion, we cannot stress enough the importance of seizing this unique opportunity to explore your academic horizons with MLA College. Our open day promises a wealth of information, inspiration, and connection, all in the comfort of your own space. We look forward to welcoming you on Wednesday 1st November 2023, for a day filled with discovery, empowerment, and the promise of a brighter future at MLA College.”
ABS and Crowley jointly explore cutting-edge visualization technologies
ABS and US shipping and logistics company Crowley have signed an agreement to jointly explore the application of visualization technologies in both augmented reality (AR) and virtual reality (VR) environments.
The new partnership agreement builds on Crowley’s augmented reality technology used in select vessels where crew use wearable technology to provide video and remote access at 360-degree views of ship equipment. That technology, through Kognitiv Spark, allows mariners and shoreside crew to more quickly complete maintenance, updates and upgrades on board with real-time, digital collaboration.
By working together, ABS and Crowley can advance existing research that each has cnducted independently. The joint pilot project will centre around class-related survey support activities such as aspects of annual and special surveys including task crediting, along with a variety of scenarios involving surveyors, engineers and back-office survey support, virtual walkthroughs and livestreaming utilizing fully remote and hybrid survey techniques.
“Augmented reality technology is a field technology, so in collaborating with forward-looking companies like Crowley, we can explore what’s possible for future survey operations as well as for safety in use. ABS class services are leading the industry and finding ways to enrich the data used to both streamline the class process and also keep mariners and our surveyors safe,” said Patrick Ryan, ABS Senior Vice President and Chief Technology Officer.
“Partnership is key to sustainable growth and success in maritime services, and we look forward to working with ABS to advance innovation technology for the benefit of our maritime ecosystem and our customers,” said Cole Cosgrove, vice president, Crowley Shipping. “These innovations will provide mariners a safer and more efficient option and allow us to provide services for our customers that are even more reliable and effective.”
Crowley owns and operates a diverse U.S. and foreign flag fleet that includes, container, roll on/roll off (RoRo), tug, dry cargo and offshore wind development and service operation vessels. The collaboration with ABS will leverage its ongoing innovation efforts to bring more efficient and sustainable operations through technology.
AR technologies are also part of a new series of research projects ABS is funding at Texas A&M University that are underway. The basis of the AR research is to understand and characterize the safety implications of wearables aboard vessels and in offshore environments to be investigated in partnership with the Texas A&M Engineering Experiment Station (TEES).
ABS is leading the way forward in applying technologies such as high-resolution laser scanning, unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), crawlers, remotely operated vehicles (ROVs) and wearable technologies to augment traditional class-related surveys and inspections, and it has published ABS ‘Guidance Notes on The Use of Remote Inspection Technologies’.
New Director Temi Binitie joins The Seafarers’ Charity
The Seafarers’ Charity is delighted to welcome Temi Binitie who joins the charity this week as its new Business Development Director.
Temi (pictured) will be developing and implementing a fundraising strategy to develop new income streams to support the Charity's funding of maritime welfare charities that support the safety and welfare of people working at sea.
Temi has extensive commercial shipping and industry experience at an international level. In her new role as Business Development Director she will be using her experience and long-standing relationships in the maritime sector to build strong partnerships to boost The Seafarers’ Charity's ability to deliver even greater support to help maritime welfare charities to support seafarers. Each year the Charity awards at least £2m in grant funding to support maritime welfare services.
Temi describes herself as a passionate advocate for the maritime sector and dedicated to advancing it through increased visibility. She is looking forward to promoting and connecting The Seafarers’ Charity to a wider commercial maritime audience.
When asked how she felt about her new role, Temi said: “I see my role as strengthening existing, and building new and innovative, bridges between key industry stakeholders and the Charity. I am looking forward to helping The Seafarers’ Charity develop their ground-breaking programmes of work and more importantly, to achieve greater funding to support their ambition of doing even more to improve the safety and welfare of seafarers.”
Commenting upon the appointment, Paul Butterworth, Chair of the General Council of The Seafarers’ Charity said: “On behalf of the Trustees, I am thrilled to welcome Temi to The Seafarers’ Charity. Over the last three years, the Charity has been on a journey of transformation. Temi's appointment is the latest step in this process and we look forward to benefiting from her deep knowledge and network from within the maritime and shipping sector, both in the UK and elsewhere.”
Shipshave scoops coveted tech innovation award for in-transit hull cleaning solution
Stavanger-based company was Shipshave has emerged as the winner of the coveted Most Innovative Proven Technology Award in the inaugural SNIC Innovation Awards for its cutting-edge in-transit cleaning of hulls (ITCH) solution that removes biofouling during a voyage to boost fuel efficiency and decarbonisation.
The keenly contested prize was among three technology awards handed out at the Singapore Norway Innovation Conference (SNIC) 2023, with the theme Innovate to Zero, that is hosted annually in the Lion City by the Norwegian Business Association Singapore (NBAS).
Shipshave earned the accolade for having “the most innovative commercial-ready and implementable solutions or products proven to impact the maritime industry through improving operational efficiency, sustainability or decarbonisation”, according to the award citation.
The company was selected among a strong field of candidates for the award by an expert jury including Innovation Norway’s technology advisor Per Christer Lund and DNV Maritime’s Regional Manager South East Asia, Pacific & India, Cristina Saenz de Santa Maria.
The award was presented to Shipshave’s Regional Sales & Marketing Director - APAC, Charlie Lim, by NBAS President Leonard Stornes, who headed the jury.
“We are extremely honoured and delighted to have secured this award, which represents a strong endorsement of our unique low-cost solution to reduce biofouling en-route, thereby contributing to cleaner hulls with less drag to cut fuel consumption and emissions,” says Shipshave’s CEO Aage Hoejmark.
He continues: “This is a well-deserved recognition of the work done by our team together with our partners and early adopters. Innovation Norway and the Norwegian Research Council also deserves an honourable mention for having contributed to the funding of the ITCH development.”
Shipshave’s ITCH solution is a semi-autonomous hull-cleaning robot that can be deployed by the crew from a portable winch mounted on the forecastle deck.
The robotic tool harvests propulsion energy to stay attached to the hull and swipe up and down the hull underwater using soft brushes. An integrated video camera on the device enables real-time monitoring of the hull cleaning process and post-cleaning inspection via the ITCH digital application.
It is estimated the technology can clean between 80-90% of the parallel/vertical area of a Handysize bulker’s hull during sailing in a five-hour operation, with typical opex of less than $250 per cleaning.
Proactive cleaning of the vessel to prevent fouling, which increases viscous resistance and vessel drag in the water, results in better hull performance due to improved hydrodynamics that cuts fuel use. According to the IMO’s GloFouling report, well maintained hulls can contribute to a 5-25% reduction in GHG emissions.
This means vessel speed can be maintained during transit while still meeting CII requirements, thereby avoiding slow steaming that involves costly derating of the engine, according to Hoejmark.
The technology, initially trialled in 2019, is now being implemented in fleet operations by several major industry players following successful testing on a number of vessels.
Stolt Tankers reported a marked reduction in fuel consumption following an initial trial of ITCH on its vessel Stolt Acer during a voyage from Port Said, Egypt to Algeciras, Spain and has expanded trials of the solution to five more ships.
“We utilize ITCH as a mean to reduce additional drag due to fouling, hence reducing emissions to the atmosphere and improving efficiency of the fleet. It also represents a nice example of collaborative effort among Shipshave and Stolt Tankers,” says Stolt Tankers’ Energy and Conservation Manager, Jose Gonzalez Celis.
Klaveness Combination Carriers is expanding roll-out of the robots across its fleet with five additional units after pilots on four vessels showed fuel efficiency improvements of between 2-5%. Furthermore, Teekay Tankers plans to install Shipshave on four more vessels this year after a successful trial.
A fuel consumption assessment conducted by DNV found that Shipshave’s technology can deliver fuel savings of around 10% when used regularly.
Shipshave is designed as a proactive solution for hull cleaning as an alternative to retroactive cleaning in ports. This avoids the need for offhire deviations to approved ports for cleaning with associated scheduling and logistics, while also saving time on port turnarounds, Hoejmark explains.
There are further environmental benefits as being able to remove and dispose of fouling mid-ocean rather than in port curbs the spread of non-indigenous invasive species to coastal ecosystems. This also prevents deposits of biocide and plastic residues due to erosion of anti-fouling coatings with heavy-duty cleaning in port.
“Our mission is to redefine hull maintenance, enabling the crew to take control over hull performance and thereby improve voyage efficiency,” says Shipshave’s founder Rune Freyer.
LR, Cargill, Minerva Dry and NACKS develop new energy efficient and methanol ready Kamsarmax bulk carrier design
Lloyd’s Register (LR), Cargill International, Minerva Dry Inc. and Nantong COSCO KHI Ship Engineering Co Ltd (NACKS) have collaborated on the design of a Kamsarmax bulk carrier with methanol and rotor sail capability as the result of a Joint Development Project (JDP) established in 2022.
The design will provide a new energy efficient bulk carrier at a time when ship owners and operators must consider their environmental, social and governance (ESG) strategies in line with new and upcoming environmental regulations which mandate the limiting of greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions.
The JDP included input on user requirements from one of the largest dry bulk operators, Cargill, and brings together the operational experience of ship owner Minerva Dry with the design expertise of leading Chinese shipyard NACKS. LR acted as a trusted adviser throughout the joint development project as the sole classification society for the design of this unique vessel.
Nikos Kakalis, Global Bulk Carriers Segment Director, Lloyd’s Register said: “Lloyd’s Register is proud to have collaborated on this JDP with Cargill, Minerva Dry and NACKS to design an energy efficient and future fuel ready Kamsarmax bulk carrier, bringing innovation to practice.
“And it is absolutely vital that stakeholders across the maritime value chain continue to work together to provide commercially viable bulk carriers to meet the sector’s demands whilst prioritising designs that comply with tightening GHG emission regulations, as evidenced by this JDP.”
Chris Hughes, Decarbonisation Specialist, Cargill International said: “It’s been great to work closely with NACKS, Minerva Dry and LR on this project; they all brought a lot of knowledge and experience to the project; plus a willingness to challenge the status quo, and to consider new ideas and technologies. Rather than starting with a conventional fuelled design and adding on some limited ‘readiness’ we essentially designed a methanol fuelled ship first, and worked backwards from there for the methanol-ready version. The result is a design that is truly ready and feasible for conversion.”
Kostas Papadodimas, Technical Manager, Minerva Dry said: “We are at a time when the shipping industry is undergoing a transformation process caused mainly by the rapid technological advancement and the requirements and targets set towards the Decarbonisation of our industry. As such, Minerva Dry is committed to working with industry stakeholders and business partners in developing solutions that will enable the Decarbonisation of shipping transportation.”
Mingfeng Lu, Technical Director, NACKS said: “The methanol-ready dual fuel Kamsarmax BC is another breakthrough in developing ‘Carbon-Neutral’ vessels in NACKS by comprehensive research on optimal arrangement of methanol storage tanks, fuel supply and refuelling systems.
“By optimizing the hull form and implementation of energy saving devices, the vessel provides significant improvement in energy efficiency comparing with the last generation of Kamsarmax BC. It can satisfy the requirement of EEDI Phase 3 by using conventional fuel, with the potential for greater improvement in it following the utilisation of wind propulsion and methanol fuel in the future.”
Shipping leaders prepare to gather in Limassol for Maritime Cyprus 2023
Returning in 2023 after the success of last year’s conference, Maritime Cyprus 2023 will take place in Limassol from 08 – 11 October at a new venue.
Themed ‘Shipping in action: An Agenda for Change’, the conference – this time at the Parklane Resort and Spa - will host keynote speakers, panel discussions and workshops designed to accelerate Maritime’s progress within areas including decarbonisation, ship financing, digitalisation, and shipbuilding. This year also sees the introduction of a session on the cruise sector.
Over 1,000 delegates are expected to attend from across the globe, including a diverse range of influential shipping industry actors. As is typical of the conference’s long-standing format, all speakers have been invited solely on merit, ensuring that every session is interesting and impactful. Most panel discussions will take place during the morning of each day – with afternoons dedicated mainly to meetings and networking.
Many shipping industry leaders feature in the line-up of speakers and panelists, including Kitack Lim, Secretary General of the IMO; Arsenio Dominguez, Secretary-General Elect of the IMO; Andreas Hadjiyiannis, President, Cyprus Union of Shipowners, Dr Gaby Bornheim, President, German Shipowners’ Association, Philippos Philis, President of European Community Shipowners' Associations (ECSA); Emanuele Grimaldi, President and Managing Director of the International Chamber of Shipping (ICS); Nikolaus Schües, President, BIMCO, and many more.
A hallmark of the Maritime Cyprus Conference, shipowners and charterers themselves feature heavily in the speaker line-up, including George Procopiou, Chairman, Dynacom Tankers Management Ltd, Thanassis Martinos, Managing Director, Eastern Mediterranean Maritime Ltd, Suzanna Laskaridis, Director, Laskaridis Shipping Company Ltd, Semiramis Paliou, CEO, Diana Shipping Inc, Polys Hajioannou, CEO & Chairman, Safe Bulkers Inc, Nicole Mylona, CEO, Transmed Shipping Co Ltd, Jan Dieleman, President Cargill Ocean Transportation, Cargill International SA, Sebastian Landerretche, Head, Freight Platform, Louis Dreyfus Company, Chris-Alexander Korfiatis, Vice President, Marine Operations, Royal Caribbean and others.
Keynote speaker Anne Katrine Bjerregaard, Head of Strategy, Sustainability & ESG, at the Maersk McKinney Møller Center for Zero Carbon Shipping, will take the stage on Tuesday, 10 October at 11h20 EEST, with a presentation entitled: ‘The time to act is now – radically transforming maritime by 2050’.
Shipping Deputy Minister to the President of the Republic of Cyprus, Marina Hadjimanolis, commented: “I have entered my term as Shipping Deputy Minister at a time of great change, challenge and opportunity, in the industry. What always sets the Maritime Cyprus Conference apart is the speaker line up. The focus remains on the shipowners, operators, and charterers themselves who speak alongside regulators, financiers and innovators.
“The timing of Maritime Cyprus, ahead of much incoming international and European legislation, enables shipping to gather and collaborate to make essential progress towards our future sustainability – in every sense. We are ready and willing to support the industry in taking positive action.”
The conference, opened by Nikos Christodoulides, President of the Republic of Cyprus, will be held in Limassol, at the Parklane Resort and Spa, between 9th and 11th October 2023. To register at this year’s conference, visit the Maritime Cyprus website.
Norway boosts funding for IMO GreenVoyage2050 work with developing States on GHG reduction
A major project which aims to ensure that no country is left behind in maritime decarbonization is set to continue its work through to 2030, following a large new injection of funding.
The Government of Norway has confirmed 210 million NOK (US$19.4 million USD) of funds for Phase Two of the IMO GreenVoyage2050 project, in an agreement between Norway and IMO that was signed on 28 September, World Maritime Day, during the IMO-UNEP-Norway Innovation Forum. The same week, a GreenVoyage2050 Global Project Task Force meeting was held with partnering countries to review Phase One of the project, ahead of the transition into Phase Two.
The GreenVoyage2050 project has been implemented by the International Maritime Organization (IMO) since 2019. IMO has been working with selected developing countries around the world, including Small Island Developing States (SIDS) and Least Developed Countries (LDCs), and partnering with maritime-related international associations, other UN organizations, and the industry, to reduce Greenhouse Gas (GHG) emissions from shipping.
This substantial funding facilitates the extension of the project beyond Phase One which concludes in December 2023. Under Phase Two, the project will continue to provide support to developing countries, to help them to meet their commitments to climate change and ship energy efficiency goals, in line with the levels of ambition set out in the IMO GHG Strategy. The 2023 Strategy on the Reduction of Greenhouse Gas Emissions from Shipping by IMO, adopted in July, sets an ambitious goal of achieving net-zero greenhouse gas emissions by or around, i.e. close to, 2050.
The IMO GreenVoyage2050 project was launched in May 2019 to provide support to selected countries to develop policy frameworks and National Action Plans (NAPs) to address GHG emissions from ships, aligned with the implementation of the Initial IMO GHG Strategy, which was adopted in 2018. The project provided support to partnering countries on the adoption of green technologies, through the identification, development and implementation of pilot projects.
Under Phase Two of the project, existing pilot projects in partnering countries will continue to be supported. These include pilot projects which facilitate sharing of operational best practices, catalyse the uptake of energy efficient technologies and support countries in exploring opportunities for the production and provision of low- and zero-carbon fuels, linking the project even further to the wider global energy transition. The number of partnering countries and new pilot projects will be expanded.
The Global Industry Alliance to Support Low Carbon Shipping (Low Carbon GIA) will continue to operate as part of the GreenVoyage2050 project. The Low Carbon GIA offers a platform for leading shipowners and operators, classification societies, engine and technology builders and suppliers, big data providers, oil companies and ports to collectively identify and develop innovative solutions to address common barriers to the uptake and implementation of energy efficiency technologies, operational best practices and alternative low- and zero-carbon fuels.
Ms. Ragnhild Sjoner Syrstad (pictured, right), State Secretary of the Norwegian Ministry of Climate and Environment said: “Norway is committed to ensuring that developing countries receive the necessary support and resources to make progress towards meeting their emission reduction targets. We believe that the work undertaken by the IMO to support developing countries is extremely important and are pleased that our continued contribution will continue the work being undertaken by the GreenVoyage2050 Project.”
IMO Secretary-General Kitack Lim (pictured, left) said,:“The extension of this project to the end of 2030 will ensure that developing countries are supported in the maritime decarbonization transition in line with the 2023 IMO GHG Strategy. The ongoing support from Norway will allow us to build on the significant progress already made by the GreenVoyage2050 project in developing countries and drive efforts even further.”
The ambition of GreenVoyage2050 is to grow into a wider GHG programme with additional donors stepping up and joining this journey. The Government of Finland has already committed funding to support further scaling-up and expansion of project activities.
The same week, a GreenVoyage2050 Global Project Task Force meeting was held with partnering countries to review Phase One of the project, ahead of the transition into Phase Two.
Accelleron and METIS to drive digital turbocharger service uptake
Turbocharging specialist Accelleron has signed a strategic partnership with METIS Cyberspace Technology that will expand the number of marine installations and power generation facilities that can use data analytics to improve turbocharger operation and maintenance.
METIS develops data-collecting hardware and IoT solutions that can be easily deployed in vessels and facilities to achieve automated, real-time data availability. Under the cooperation, METIS will providonboard and cloud-based data infrastructure to Accelleron customers, enabling the data collection that underpins Accelleron’s range of Smartly Enabled Service Agreements.
With many marine and power generation assets built before the advent of modern digital solutions, the cooperation will support operators in establishing the connectivity needed for real-time data collection and transfer. This capability is a pre-requisite for Accelleron’s digital solutions including Tekomar XPERT and Turbo Insight, and its service agreements Turbo MarineCare and Turbo SmartCare.
The marine class-approved data acquisition system from METIS can be tailored to meet the specific requirements of operators’ facilities. By partnering with METIS, Accelleron is broadening the number of customers that can benefit from the real-time insights and efficiency gains offered by its digital solutions.
Eleni Polychronopoulou (pictured, centre right), CEO, METIS, said: “State-of-the-art information technologies are increasingly available and affordable, which means that the value data offers to unlock greater ship safety, efficiency and sustainability can be made more widely accessible wherever assets are operating. We are delighted to team up with Accelleron to drive the uptake of these essential optimization capabilities in sectors that may have previously considered them out of reach.”
Roland Schwarz (pictured, far right), Division President Service, Accelleron, added: “Digital solutions and data-enhanced services are increasingly understood as the keys to significant and cost-effective efficiency improvements in shipping and power generation. Accelleron has already invested in developing the tools and service agreements that enable customers to tap into these benefits. Our partnership with METIS will ensure we can extend those advantages to users that may otherwise have been unable to access them.”
ClassNK joins major classification societies by amending rules for seawater-lubricated shafts
Nippon Kaiji Kyokai (ClassNK) has joined the major classification societies to amend its rules relating to the inspection of seawater-lubricated propeller shaft systems.
The amendment means that ships with open seawater-lubricated propeller shafts that are built to ClassNK rules are subject to the same 15-year shaft withdrawal inspection periods as oil-lubricated shafts and sterntubes, subject to monitoring criteria.
The announcement brings ClassNK’s requirements in line with those of other large class societies, including Lloyds Register (LR), the American Bureau of Shipping (ABS), Det Norske Veritas (DNV), Bureau Veritas (BV) and the China Classification Society (CCS), which have already stipulated 15-year or longer intervals between inspections, some of them since 2016.
In its amendments to the Rules and Guidance for the Survey and Construction of Steel Ships , published on 30 June 2023, ClassNK clarified its reasons for the change: “In recent years, the development of mechanical type sealing devices, and bearings with lower wear properties as well as improvements in corrosion prevention technology, have led to fewer wear and corrosion defects in both shafts and bearings. In addition, interest in seawater-lubricated bearings, which do not use lubricating oil, and their effectiveness has increased among relevant industry members due to concerns for the environment.”
ClassNK also noted that the amendment follows requests received from industry stakeholders relating to the developments made in advanced seawater-lubrication system technology.
Thordon Bearings is one of the companies that has supported calls for industry-wide standardization of extended shaft withdrawals for seawater-based lubrication solutions that are now comparable to sealed oil lubricated systems.
Craig Carter, Vice President of Business Development, Thordon Bearings, said: “We are delighted that ClassNK has now joined the other major classification societies in dispensing with the wholly unnecessary and costly need to withdraw a seawater-lubricated propeller shaft for inspection every five years. Technology has come a long way since the first-generation seawater-lubricated lignum vitae bearings of the 1950s.”
While the risk of shaft corrosion in open seawater-based systems was historically a concern with first-generation bearings, leading some classification societies to continue demanding enhanced inspection regimes, new materials and technologies mean seawater-based systems can exceed the performance and reliability of their oil-based counterparts.
Elena Corin, Senior Manager, Special Marine Projects, Thordon Bearings, explained: “Aside from our pioneering polymer bearing technology, Thordon has enabled the development of Thor-Coat - a toughened, modified epoxy coating, which is applied to exposed steel areas of the shaft between the liners to eliminate the need for shaft withdrawal. In the event of damage, seawater cannot wick under the coating along the shaft and the epoxy coating is spot repairable.”
As the global leader among seawater-lubricated propeller shaft bearing manufacturers, Thordon Bearings has concentrated over 40 years of research and development to produce a solution proven to be more in line with the decarbonisation movement of the 21st century than its antiquated oil-lubricated cousin.
“It is undeniable that the increasing number of ocean-going tankers, bulkers, dry cargo vessels, passenger ferries, cruise ships and containers that now routinely specify a Thordon propeller shaft bearing are significantly more environmentally and operationally efficient than their oil-based equivalents,” Corin said. “Thordon’s COMPAC open seawater-lubricated propeller shaft bearing system (pictured) ensures zero environmental impact, improves fuel efficiency and eliminates the costs associated with managing oil discharges.”
In addition to the amendment regarding the inspection of seawater-based propulsion systems, Class NK has also updated several other requirements. These include new formulae for sloshing loads and new requirements for the maintenance and management of offshore wind turbine installations.
Other changes include clarification of scope for protection against fire when transferring cargo to other vessels on liquefied gas carriers, clarification of the NOx emission standards for biofuel, new requirements for cast and forged steel products, and amendments to safety requirements for reciprocating internal combustion engines.
Hexagon Purus Maritime receives purchase order for hydrogen fuel storage system from Hvide Sande Shipyard in Denmark
Hexagon Purus Maritime, a wholly owned subsidiary of Hexagon Purus, has received a purchase order for a hydrogen fuel storage system from Hvide Sande Shipyard, a Danish shipyard building and servicing a wide range of vessel types.
Hexagon Purus Maritime’s hydrogen fuel storage system incorporating type 4 hydrogen cylinders will be used as fuel storage onboard the training ship SKULEBAS (pictured). The training ship is owned by Vestland County in Norway and operated by Maaløy Upper Secondary School to educate future mariners in Norway.
"Hvide Sande Shipyard is proud of being part of Vestland County’s hydrogen project. This project fits perfectly with our vision of being a leading provider of zero-emission technology for the maritime industry, with our previous experience from both battery and methanol technology, says Mike Bylov Torsland, Senior Project Manager in Hvide Sande Shipyard. “We look forward to cooperating with Hexagon Purus on this ambitious hydrogen project.”
“Hexagon Purus is at the forefront of developing innovative hydrogen storage solutions for the maritime industry. We are thrilled to deliver our zero-emission onboard storage technology to educate the future officers and sailors of the Norwegian maritime industry”, says Robert Haugen, Managing Director of Hexagon Purus Maritime.
“We continue to see strong interest in our hydrogen storage technology as the maritime sector accelerates its decarbonization efforts. This order further validates our strong market position as an early-mover in zero-emission technology for the maritime industry.”
Delivery of the hydrogen fuel storage system is scheduled for Q2 2024.
Republic of the Marshall Islands Registry Mourns the Loss of Capt. David J.F. Bruce
Capt. David J.F. Bruce, Permanent Representative of the Republic of the Marshall Islands (RMI) to the IMO, and Senior Deputy Commissioner of Maritime Affairs, RMI Maritime Administrator passed away on Friday, 29 September 2023. He was a loving husband to Alison for 53 years, father to Gwendoline, and grandfather to Alison and Alexander.
Capt. Bruce had a storied career and connection with the sea, first going to work at sea in 1957 after his studies at Melville College in Edinburgh, Kelvinside Academy in Glasgow, and the Nautical College in Pangbourne.
He served as a commissioned officer in the Royal Naval Reserve which included service afloat on the HMS Ark Royal. He had also been employed at sea with Cayzer Irvine & Co. Ltd. and Canadian Pacific Steamships Ltd. where he rose to be Master before taking up shore employment with the Milford Haven Port Authority. Capt. Bruce held a UK Master Mariner Certificate of Competency and was a member of the Royal Institute of Navigation, the Honourable Company of Master Mariners, and was a Fellow of the Nautical Institute. His experience at sea included general and refrigerated cargo, heavy lift/bulk cargo, container vessels, forest product carriers, and passenger ships.
He worked with marine administrations and ship registries since 1972. Capt. Bruce was employed by Liberian Services Ltd. from 1972 to 1991, serving in the positions of Senior Nautical Inspector, Officer-in-Charge, and Chief of Marine Inspections, Division II, first with Liberian Services and then for a period as Chief Marine Surveyor for the Isle of Man Government.
In 1994, he was appointed as Managing Director of the London office of International Registries, Inc. and its affiliates (IRI), which at the time provided administrative and technical support to both the RMI and Liberian Registries, responsible for safety inspections and vessel registrations. In the year 2000, IRI solely provided administrative and technical support to the RMI Registry and Capt. Bruce maintained his position as Managing Director of the London office until the year 2002 at which time he became the Permanent Representative to the IMO for the RMI.
Capt. Bruce’s involvement with the IMO spanned nearly 50 years. He served as an advisor to the Liberian IMO delegation supporting the work of numerous sessions of the IMO Committees and Sub-committees. He was with the RMI delegation to the IMO since it became a Member State in 1996, and was retained as Senior Deputy Commissioner of Maritime Affairs and the Permanent Representative of the RMI to the IMO in 2002. In these roles, Captain Bruce was involved in varying degrees with nearly every initiative and standard developed under the auspices of IMO concerning the safety, security, and environmental performance of international shipping. He also contributed to the work of other related organizations, having chaired the International Oil Pollution Compensation Funds (IOPCF) 1972 fund and the International Mobile Satellite Organization (IMSO) Advisory Committee, to name a few.
In these capacities, Capt. Bruce guided the RMI delegation to the IMO with his expertise and insightful wisdom, always being mindful of the many perspectives on matters under discussion and the goal of developing meaningful standards. Above all else, he was motivated by the spirit of a true seafarer in his heart.
“Captain Bruce was an able leader, a kind and knowledgeable mentor, and truly represented the overall objectives of the IMO. His contributions, dedication, and service to the IMO and IRI over the decades will have a lasting impact on our company, seafarers at sea, and ships trading internationally,” said Bill Gallagher, President, IRI. “His passing is a great loss to our industry for in the spirit of cooperation, he tirelessly aspired to bring smart regulation to the evolving regulatory regime at the IMO,” he concluded.
KPI OceanConnect welcomes Greek maritime executives to Alternative Fuels & EU ETS Forum
KPI OceanConnect, a leading global marine energy solutions provider, held its Alternative Fuels & EU ETS Forum for clients in Greece last week, where it brought together a line-up of marine energy experts to talk about biofuels, their regulation and adoption and their important role in helping the shipping industry comply with emissions regulations.
For the evening’s seminar, speakers included KPI OceanConnect’s Jesper Sørensen, Global Head of Alternative Fuels & Carbon Markets, and from Bunker Holding, Valerie Ahrens, Senior Director of New Fuels & Carbon Markets and Manja Ostertag, Head of Biofuels. They were joined by Maria Tzigianni of Bureau Veritas’ VeriFuel.
The speakers presented on the range of biofuel products available to the marine sector and how the market for these products is shaped by the oil market, feedstock sectors such as agriculture, and regulations at national, regional and global levels. Delegates also learnt about pilot projects that had tested the performance of biofuels and measured how they would help ship owners and operators to decarbonise.
More than 100 guests braved challenging weather conditions to attend an evening at Golf Privé in Glyfada, Athens, and were welcomed by Michalis Manassakis (pictured), Managing Director, KPI OceanConnect Athens. Attendees followed a very interesting seminar and were also able to learn more about KPI OceanConnect’s values and main activations through interactive touchscreen technology. After the seminar, they enjoyed networking and KPI OceanConnect’s signature cocktail, which was also given to the guests as “green fuel oil sample” to take home and enjoy responsibly.
With EU ETS regulations coming into effect in the shipping industry on January 1st 2024, KPI OceanConnect’s guests also heard about the important role that voluntary and regulated carbon markets would have in helping the shipping industry to decarbonise.
The shipping industry, vessel owners and operators in particular, face many important questions about decarbonisation, while ongoing innovation means the alternative fuels market is constantly moving. In its role as a leading provider of high-quality fuels, it is important that KPI OceanConnect shares its knowledge and expertise with its clients and customers.
Thanking guests for attending the evening, Michalis Manassakis commented: “It was a pleasure to host a frank and open discussion for so many of our friends in the Greek market and we are grateful to have had so many join us today. As the shipping sector tackles the decarbonisation challenge, it is important that we help our partners to understand the changes that are happening in the marine energy market. And that we work to build trust in the supply of products that will drive forward the energy transition in our sector.”
Unifeeder invests in four new methanol powered vessels
Unifeeder Group has signed a long-term time-charter agreement for two new methanol-capable container feeder vessels and has an option for additional two similar vessels.
German-based ship owning group Elbdeich Reederei will build and manage the 1250 twenty-foot equivalent unit (TEU) vessels which will be delivered in 2026.
Unifeeder Group plans to deploy the new vessels on its European network, where the new vessels will give a significant contribution to lower the emissions of the network.
Alongside parent company, DP World, Unifeeder is working with partners across the industry to find solutions to the challenge of renewable-methanol supply, which needs off-take commitments to build production at the scale that the industry needs to replace conventional fossil fuels.
In parallel to the delivery of the methanol capable vessels, Unifeeder will continue to improve the fuel efficiency of the entire fleet deployed and increase the use of biofuels on the conventional vessels in the fleet.
Jesper Kristensen, Group CEO of Unifeeder Group, said: “This is another significant step towards the green transformation of our fleet and our operations. These new vessels can be deployed across our current and future networks, offering a flexible, greener solution to our customers.
“As the number of methanol-capable vessels increases in both our operations and those of our customers, my hope is that this drives an increase in innovation and production amongst methanol producers. This will then complete a virtuous circle and ensure we can operate more and more methanol capable vessels with the right colour of methanol fuels in our networks.
“Ultimately though, the greenest fuel is the fuel that is not burned. We strive to offer our customers solutions that support their own sustainability journeys and whilst these new vessels are part of the answer, efficient routing, securing high levels of vessel utilisation and dedicated capacity management across all of our offerings have major roles to play as well.”
The investment in these new ships supports Unifeeder Group’s ambitious decarbonisation plan. Putting its targets well above that of the industry average, Unifeeder has committed to a 25 per cent reduction of emissions by 2030, carbon neutrality by 2040 and net zero emissions by 2050. It aims to achieve this by emphasising fuel-efficient practices, regular maintenance and refitting processes of the existing fleet and fostering a culture of learning and collaboration, sharing best practices across markets to drive effective carbon reduction strategies.
Robert Frese, Managing Director at Elbdeich Reederei, adds: “We believe in methanol-capable vessels as part of a suite of solutions being deployed to reduce carbon emissions in our sector and are happy to contribute with this project to a greener future in shipping. We really look forward to operating these modern state-of-the-art container feeder vessels in our partnership with Unifeeder and hope other market participants will follow this example.”
The newbuilding project is the latest step in a series of efforts that have been undertaken between Unifeeder and Elbdeich Reederei to reduce emissions within the jointly-operated Unifeeder fleet. This includes the first test of Synthetic Natural Gas as a fuel on a commercial vessel, the continuous use of biofuels and various vessel modifications made to reduce the fuel consumption of existing tonnage.
Jamaica celebrates World Maritime Day and 50 years of MARPOL
Jamaica’s maritime community gathered to celebrate World Maritime Day last week and observe the crucial role that the shipping industry plays in shaping the global economy and connecting nations by seas.
Kingston’s UDC building, home to the Maritime Authority of Jamaica (MAJ), was lit up in blue to mark the occasion. Guests were welcomed by MAJ Board Chair, Corah-Ann Robertson Sylvester, with addresses given by The Hon. Daryl Vaz, Minister of Science, Energy and Telecommunications and Transport, and MAJ Director General, Rear Admiral (Ret’d) Peter Brady.
The theme of this year’s World Maritime Day was ‘MARPOL at 50 – our commitment goes on’, recognising the crucial role of the International Convention for the Prevention of Pollution from Ships (MARPOL) in preventing pollution of the marine environment by ships from operational or accidental causes.
Minister Vaz (pictured) noted: “Through MARPOL we have seen a remarkable transformation in the maritime industry’s approach to environmental stewardship.”
He outlined measures Jamaica is taking to protect marine environments, commenting: “The Government of Jamaica, through the Maritime Authority of Jamaica, has embraced innovation, implemented technologies, and fostered international co-operation to tackle the challenges we are facing with climate change and environmental conditions, by establishing policies and laws that protect the marine environment.
“Yet, tonight, we are reminded that our journey is far from over. The challenges and the theme of this year’s World Maritime Day serve as a call to action. It reminds us that we must forge ahead with renewed determination and innovation in protecting the industry. It calls upon us as a nation to redouble our efforts to create a maritime industry that is not only economically viable but also ecologically responsible.
“Jamaica remains committed to enhancing sustainable shipping, protecting the marine environment, and establishing policies, and laws that will protect the marine environment,” he pledged. “Jamaica continues its support and dedication to a viable and sustainable maritime industry through its membership on the IMO Council to ensure the interests of the member states of CARICOM, as well as that of the Small Island Developing States and Least Developing Countries are represented.”
With the blue-lit building behind him he said: “As we bathed the Ocean Boulevard in blue light tonight in celebration of World Maritime Day, may we all continue to steer the course, unite the maritime community, and sail towards a brighter and more sustainable maritime industry.”
MAJ Director General Rear Admiral (ret’d) Peter Brady made a World Maritime Day address onboard the Ocean Blue Mahoe, steered by Captain Basil Spooner in Kingston Harbour. Using the vessel’s radio facility, he said: “We use this as an occasion to show the people of Jamaica how critically important shipping is to our livelihood and our economy. Ninety percent or more of our trade takes place by sea, and this emphasises how important shipping is for Jamaica.”
“Shipping has to make sure it takes care of the environment,” he commented, highlighting the important MARPOL annexes which prevent sea and air pollution.
The Maritime Authority of Jamaica also discussed the importance of MARPOL regulations with cadets at the Caribbean Maritime University, explaining the crucial role seafarers play in the correct implementation of these environmental measures.
TotalEnergies Marine Fuels completes first LNG bunker operations for new dual-fuelled vessels
TotalEnergies Marine Fuels has recently completed its first liquefied natural gas (LNG) bunkering operations for two new, dual-fuelled vessels owned by the Angelicoussis Group following bilateral short-term supply deals struck on the spot market, signalling the growing maturity of the lower-carbon marine fuel.
On 23 August 2023, TotalEnergies Marine Fuels supplied 2,700 metric tons of LNG to Maran Tankers Management’s (MTM) Very Large Crude Carrier (VLCC), Maran Danae, via the Gas Agility LNG bunker vessel in Rotterdam.
This LNG bunkering operation followed the Gas Agility’s supply of MTM’s Dual-Fuel VLCC, Antonis I. Angelicoussis, with 2,700 metric tons of LNG in July. Antonis I. Angelicoussis is chartered to TotalEnergies.
Maran Danae and Antonis I. Angelicoussis are among four new dual-fuelled (DF) VLCCs that MTM, the oil tanker shipping arm of Angelicoussis Group, took delivery this year. The vessels emit 42% less carbon dioxide than an equivalent 10-year-old VLCC, which according to MTM, makes them the most environmentally friendly VLCCs in the world.
“We are pleased to build on our longstanding partnership with Maran Tankers Management and to support the Angelicoussis Group’s decarbonisation goals with these inaugural LNG bunker operations,” said Oğuz Önalan, General Manager of Bunker Trading and Operations for Europe and Africa, TotalEnergies Marine Fuels.
“Importantly, the operations demonstrate TotalEnergies Marine Fuels’ ability to serve a broad spectrum of the market’s needs promptly and flexibly through our supply network, whether by fulfilling long-term contracts or providing short-term market-sensitive solutions. We stand ready to serve the growing LNG bunker requirements of different vessel types in different circumstances, as the shipping industry’s decarbonisation ambitions accelerate.”
Mark Pearson, Managing Director of MTM, said: “Angelicoussis Group actively embraces the energy transition and adopts sustainable initiatives with the aim of decarbonising our fleet. Apart from constantly monitoring and optimising the energy efficiency of our current fleet, we also invest in the vessels of the future. The delivery of our first four LNG Dual-Fuel VLCCs and two LNG Dual-Fuel bulk carriers this year marks a milestone in our decarbonisation strategy. These deliveries, as well as the eight Dual-Fuel Suezmaxes which we have currently on order, reiterate our commitment to LNG as the best low-carbon marine fuel available. We strongly believe that cross-industry collaboration is key towards a greener future and we are delighted to have successfully completed the LNG bunkering operations of our Dual-Fuel VLCCs Antonis I. Angelicoussis and Maran Danae with the invaluable contribution of our longstanding partner, TotalEnergies Marine Fuels.”
TotalEnergies Marine Fuels has actively invested in LNG bunkering infrastructure, critical to supporting its shipping customers’ adoption of LNG as a marine fuel. The Company currently charters two 18,600-m³ LNG bunker vessels: the Gas Agility, at the Port of Rotterdam, Netherlands, and the Gas Vitality, at the Port of Marseille-Fos, France.
Since the start of TotalEnergies Marine Fuels’ LNG bunkering operations in November 2020, the Gas Agility and the Gas Vitality have performed over 200 LNG bunkering operations. Notably, both vessels have conducted world-premier, large-scale operations across these bunker hubs with high levels of performance and safety records.
WFW enhances Athens maritime offering with new partner and team hire
Watson Farley & Williams (WFW) is pleased to announce that maritime expert and asset finance lawyer Konstantinos (‘Dinos’) Mexias has joined the firm as Partner in Athens. He was previously a Senior Associate at WFW before joining Ince & Co. as a Partner. He brings with him a team of five asset finance lawyers and one paralegal, including Counsel Anthi Kekatou and Senior Associate Ilias Tsigos.
Dinos is qualified in England & Wales, New York, Greece and the Marshall Islands. He advises on all aspects of shipping finance including loan financings, sale and leaseback transactions (with a particular focus on acting on behalf of shipping companies), ECA-backed facilities, restructurings and loan portfolio transfers. His transactional expertise further includes corporate acquisitions, joint venture arrangements and the sale and purchase of ships. He also advises on Marshall Islands and Liberian maritime and corporate law matters, including advice to US-listed Marshall Islands entities on their decision-making process and other corporate governance issues.
Athens Office Head Alexia Hatzimichalis commented: “I am delighted to welcome Dinos back to WFW Athens. He is a superb lawyer with a wonderful collaborative approach and an excellent market reputation in the ship finance market. His expertise in both English and Greek law matters will be a huge asset to the Athens team as will his experience advising on Marshall Islands and Liberian law. I look forward to working with him again as well as with his team.”
Dinos added: “I am excited to be returning to WFW. This is a wonderful opportunity for me to grow and enhance my practice both in terms of client relationships and the type of work undertaken. WFW’s unrivalled maritime sector reach complements my skillset perfectly and I look forward to collaborating with all my old colleagues across the firm’s international offices, including the capital markets team in New York and the London corporate practice.”
Varamar bridges east-west gap with İstanbul opening
Varamar Shipping, a carrier of breakbulk, dry-bulk, oversized and containerized cargo, has responded to growing customer demand in the Caspian and Middle East by opening a branch in İstanbul, Türkiye.
The office, headed by newly-appointed managing director of Varamar İstanbul, Emre Öncü (pictured), follows recent branch openings in Shanghai, Houston and Athens. Öncü has extensive experience in shipping, previously holding a senior chartering role at Core Shipping in İstanbul.
September’s branch opening was a logical step for Varamar, which operates semi-liner services to and from Europe, Middle East, Asia and Africa – all of which serve the Mediterranean and Black seas, as well as Türkiye.
“We see the growing potential of Türkiye, and the wider Caspian and Middle East region, and would therefore like to lay the foundation for the company's future growth on the crossroads between east and west,” said Öncü.
“Varamar has been providing trusted shipping solutions since its formation in 2009 and our new operation in İstanbul will offer the same full package of services, including document support, port operations monitoring and engineering, as well as unrivalled cargo care and customer service.”
Varamar’s extensive experience includes the development of transport solutions for dismantled plants, factories, wind turbines, bridges, vehicles and even stadiums. The company has established its own shipping methods based on in-house competency and is also involved in tramp shipments of dry-bulk cargo and containers.
Varamar has representative offices in Europe (Belgium, Germany, Greece, Italy, Türkiye and Ukraine); North America (Canada, the USA); Asia (China) and the Middle East (United Arab Emirates).
Chartwell Marine and VARD join forces to deliver original Midi-SOV design for offshore wind
UK-based designer Chartwell Marine announces its partnership with leading shipbuilder VARD to introduce the Midi-SOV: a revolutionary 55-metre offshore wind craft. Coming to both the US and European markets in 2024, the vessel represents the combined expertise of the respective crew transfer vessel (CTV) and SOV design leaders — providing a brand-new solution to the ongoing challenge of expanding wind power across the globe. The vessel is designed Jones Act Compliant, Americanised, ready for production in US Shipyards.
As the offshore wind industry continues to grow, the demand for ever-larger CTVs has surged, with larger teams of technicians operating on increasingly scaled-up turbines. However, owing to challenges in seakeeping and hospitality, merely increasing the dimensions of current CTV designs to create more capacity is not feasible.
The Midi SOV has been designed from the ground up to prioritise stability and operability, and to be a cost-effective solution as the offshore wind industry tackles high inflation and increasing costs in its development pipeline. In taking the Midi-SOV design forward, Chartwell consciously adopted the mindset of a small bespoke architect and started from scratch, taking into consideration the insights of vessel owners, technical suppliers, and wind farm operators to meet the changing needs of the industry.
Perfectly proportioned for offshore wind, the vessel’s size hits the ‘sweet spot’ for commercial and operational viability. It incorporates a low waterplane shape that broadens above waterline, effectively minimising and dampening roll motion. This allows the vessel to remain stable during operations, facilitating walk-to-work capabilities that were previously challenging for smaller scaled traditional SOV forms. Workability and comfort are bolstered by a spacious superstructure, boasting a capacity of 36 single bunk cabins for SPS crew, 20 crew cabins, and extensive crew facilities, which include a gym, auditorium, meeting rooms, and spacious day rooms.
With a strong focus on energy efficiency, this vessel can be equipped with Methanol-Diesel Dual-Fuel engines, electric propulsion, and a supporting energy storage system. Its innovative design, balanced displacement, and advanced features position the Midi-SOV as a versatile and forward-thinking solution for offshore wind, marrying crew well-being and environmental responsibility with resolutely high performance.
To prove the Midi-SOV's suitability, extensive simulation and model testing was conducted in collaboration with Seaspeed Marine Consulting. Throughout the development phase, Chartwell received invaluable support from leading marine firms, including Clarksons, North Star, Seaspeed and Voith. VARD, after conducting due diligence on the vessel design in Summer 2023, recognised its potential as a game-changing solution and committed to developing the design to market.
Andy Page, Director, Chartwell Marine, said: "Never before has there been such a pressing need to develop offshore wind vessels that are reactive to evolving operational and financial conditions. Far from being a disaster, we see the failure of the UK’s Round 5 offshore wind CfD auctions as an opportunity for the maritime industry to respond to the fact that developer costs are skyrocketing.
“The Midi-SOV offers a cost-efficient alternative to full-sized SOVs, contributing to the industry's overall sustainability. We’re putting a strong emphasis on having these vessels manufactured locally, with US-built vessels Americanised for the US market and Europe-built vessels for European operations. Chartwell is leading the charge in CTVs; VARD are a pioneer in the SOV space — so the Midi-SOV is the best of both worlds.”
Runar Vågnes, Senior Vice President Sales VARD, said: “With the introduction of the Midi-SOV, Chartwell Marine and VARD are leading the way in opening up a new segment in the offshore wind industry enabling sustainable business at sea, bringing forth a vessel that combines innovation, efficiency, and sustainability. Our partnership signifies a commitment to providing operators with state-of-the-art solutions that slot into new and specialised roles that are emerging in markets across the globe.”
Signal Ocean launches Data Warehouse to supercharge shipping’s data-crunching capabilities
Signal Ocean, the maritime data platform, has today launched a cloud-based Data Warehouse providing a central source of commodity shipping market data that can be streamed in real-time into in-house data environments, helping to automate market reporting. The new way of accessing maritime market data enables market analysts and traders to build their own bespoke reporting capabilities in-house, doing away with countless hours of data crunching daily.
The Signal Ocean platform uses AI, advanced geospatial models and predictive technology to provide ship owners, brokers, traders, charterers and market analysts with real-time shipping market data – combining industry insight with a breadth of vessel information relevant to chartering and trading decision-making. This is integrated for each user company, with their own proprietary data automatically extracted from emails and messaging systems to create unique and secure private market dashboards that give at-a-glance market views.
The Signal Ocean Data Warehouse provides an alternative solution for accessing the complete body of Signal Ocean data for companies that prefer SQL (Structured Query Language) to power their business intelligence platforms, including Microsoft Excel, Power BI or Tableau. Using the Data Warehouse and a suite of sophisticated APIs (Application Programming Interfaces), users can live-stream Signal Ocean’s data directly into their own applications – automatically combining precise real-time market data with their own proprietary information.
Dimitris Tsapoulis, Group COO, Signal Group, explains: “The sheer scale of data now available to brokers and analysts in the current trading environment is overwhelming to anyone still trying to run the entire data crunching process manually. Our Data Warehouse offering will do the heavy lifting for them by seamlessly streaming the data Signal Ocean curates into their own systems and dashboards and automatically integrating that data with their own information. This will save hours a day and – crucially – make sure users are not on the back foot in what is an exceptionally fast-moving and volatile trading environment.”
“We’ve also made sure that the Data Warehouse solution is as close to a plug-and-play solution as you can get – there is no need for extremely resource-heavy IT integrations or investment in additional storage infrastructure, because our data is hosted on the cloud and our APIs are constantly updated. In short, with the Data Warehouse, companies of any size can harness all available market data without the huge costs in time and money of sifting through a mountain of data and information while their competitors beat them to the fix.”
The Signal Ocean Data Warehouse converges data that spans the entire spectrum of a shipping analyst’s requirements, including vessel particulars, daily AIS, voyages, tonnage list, daily vessel status, distances, vessel emissions, vessel valuations, port expenses, geos, market rates and freight data – and makes them available through a single unified SQL database.
“Data Warehousing is not a new innovation in IT; but this approach has not been applied to shipping data analytics on this scale ever before. It will be a game-changer and will help to level the playing field in terms of data accessibility and control and will also mean that brokers can focus on delivering real value – concentrating on making connections and closing deals,” adds Roussos Paschopoulos, Chief Strategy Officer, Signal.
CMA D. ARGOUDELIS pioneers Automation Lab at BCA College in Athens
CMA D. ARGOUDELIS & CO S.A. proudly unveiled its groundbreaking Automation Lab at BCA College's City Campus at end-September. This state-of-the-art facility is set to revolutionize maritime education and industry practices, offering a host of benefits for both students and maritime companies.
The Automation Lab, the first of its kind in the region, signifies CMA's commitment to fostering innovation, advancing maritime technology, and nurturing future talent in the maritime sector. This strategic partnership with BCA College aims to bridge the gap between academic knowledge and practical application, preparing students for the ever-evolving challenges of the maritime industry.
The Automation Lab will provides students with a hands-on environment to gain practical experience in maritime automation systems, navigation, and control technology. BCA College will integrate the lab into its curriculum, ensuring that students receive up-to-date training in cutting-edge automation technologies used in the maritime industry. Students will have access to internship programs and potential employment opportunities with CMA D. ARGOUDELIS & CO S.A., creating a direct pathway to a rewarding career in the maritime sector.
The Automation Lab will also serve as a hub for collaborative research projects between CMA D. ARGOUDELIS & CO S.A. and BCA College, fostering innovation and driving advancements in maritime automation.
Ioannis & Nikolaos Argoudelis, joint CEO’s of CMA D. ARGOUDELIS & CO S.A., expressed their enthusiasm about this milestone achievement, stating: "We believe that investing in the future of the maritime industry is crucial for its growth and sustainability. The Automation Lab at BCA College represents our commitment to nurturing talent and driving innovation within the sector."
Haris Daskalakis, CEO of BCA COLLEGE, shared his excitement about the collaboration, saying: "This partnership is a testament to our commitment to providing our students with the best possible education and preparing them for successful careers. The Automation Lab will empower them with the skills and knowledge needed to excel in the maritime industry."
The Automation Lab inauguration ceremony was attended by industry leaders, educators, and journalists, who all acknowledged the significance of this collaboration for the maritime sector's future.
CMA D. ARGOUDELIS & CO S.A. and BCA COLLEGE say they look forward to a fruitful partnership that will drive maritime innovation, empower students, and elevate the industry as a whole.
African maritime cadets all set for full virtual conference experience from Sailors’ Society
Future seafarers from across Africa are the latest maritime cadets preparing to take part in Sailors’ Society’s 2023 global wellness and mental health events designed exclusively for Gen Z mariners.
With those attending previous conferences saying they were now better prepared for a life at sea and that this wellness training should be mandatory on their curriculums, these events are a must for all those starting off their maritime career.
This is the second year that the international maritime charity is holding a virtual conference for cadets from maritime schools in South Africa, Ethiopia, Ghana, Namibia and Angola as well as Mozambique, Reunion, Seychelles and Mauritius. But this year there is even more for cadets to see and do with a new state-of-the-art virtual conference centre.
The conference, which takes place on Thursday October 12 at 8.30 am SAST (South African Standard Time), will deliver a full virtual experience from a lobby and auditorium to interactive sessions and even a virtual space mimicking the physical stands found at trade shows and exhibitions.
Sponsored by TK Foundation, the Wellness at Sea Maritime Schools’ Conference - Africa will explore the all-important subject of wellness and mental health with a focus on key and current issues facing today’s seafarers, including diversity.
As well as practical advice on how to get their first job, these Gen Z cadets will hear presentations from key industry leaders and influencers, including Theresa Williams, Africa's first female marine pilot, now Transnet Academy Head of Port Terminals and Marine and Capt. Thokozani Mthethwa, Deputy Harbour Master at the Port of Durban.
Sailors’ Society CEO, Sara Baade, said: “We have already held two phenomenally successful conferences this year for North Asian and South East Asian cadets and the feedback from both has been overwhelmingly positive, with young seafarers saying this gives them the tools and knowledge they need to help manage their wellbeing as they prepare for a career at sea.
“We are leading the field in our work with maritime cadets. These conferences are just the beginning of our long-term relationship with tomorrow’s workforce and future industry leaders.”
IFAN appoints new CEO to succeed Peter Stanley
The Board of Directors of the International Foundation for Aids to Navigation (IFAN) is delighted to announce the appointment of Catherine Mulvihill as its new Chief Executive Officer. Catherine is undergoing a comprehensive management of change process in collaboration with the current CEO, Peter Stanley (both pictured), and will officially assume full responsibilities as IFAN’s CEO on 9th October 2023 upon the successful completion of this transitional phase.
Catherine brings a wealth of experience spanning four decades in the marine industry, including extensive knowledge in container shipping and operations, ports and terminals, and marine insurance within both mutual management and the London and commercial markets. She has been an FCA-regulated Director of UK companies and is a Court Assistant and Chair of the Education and Charity committee for the Worshipful Company of Shipwrights.
Before joining IFAN, Catherine spent two decades with Charles Taylor, latterly as Managing Director for Charles Taylor TPA.
Guy Mason, IFAN Chair, said: “The IFAN Board of Directors would like to extend their heartfelt thanks to Peter Stanley for his exceptional contributions during his tenure as CEO, which spanned over four years. Under his leadership, IFAN conducted a thorough strategic review, revitalised critical navigational aids infrastructure in the Gulf region, and implemented transformative changes in the organisation’s governance structure. We wish him well for the future and are pleased to announce that Peter will continue to serve on the Board, taking on the role of an Independent Trustee Director.”
Remarking on the change, Peter Stanley said: “It has been a privilege to lead IFAN during this transformative period. I have full confidence that Catherine will continue to lead IFAN’s work to support and enhance safe navigation thanks to her extensive expertise and leadership skills.”
IFAN’s incoming CEO, Catherine Mulvihill, said: “Many thanks to Peter for his invaluable contributions during his tenure, and I am grateful for his guidance during this transitional period. Together with our dedicated team, I look forward to continuing IFAN’s mission and furthering our impact in the maritime industry.”
Institutional investors advised by J.P. Morgan order dual-fuel methanol IMOII MR newbuilds with TotalEnergies
J.P. Morgan Global Alternative’s Global Transportation Group (“JPMGTG”) (www.jpmorgan.com/am) is pleased to announce that institutional investors advised by JPMGTG have concluded an order for two 49,800 deadweight dual-fuel Methanol Chemical IMOII Medium-Range (MR) Newbuilds, to be constructed at Guangzhou Shipyard International (GSI), in China.
Both vessels are scheduled to be delivered in 2026 and will be fixed on time-charter to TotalEnergies.
In line with its commitment to invest in new, leading edge, technologies, with a key focus on reducing GHG emissions, the new order is JPMGTG’s first in the dual fuel methanol space. JPMGTG already has experience in investing in LNG dual fuel vessels and this step into a new fuel type will enable it to set up an additional vector of green transportation.
Growing momentum in methanol-fueled vessels across other sectors such as containerships and dry bulk vessels continues to demonstrate the growing industry view that green methanol is set to become a game changer in the pursuit of net zero targets.
The use of green methanol onboard dramatically reduces pollutants, including Sox, NOx and Particulate Matter (PM), and by capturing ambient CO2 in the production process reduces CO2 emissions by nearly 100% on a net-neutral emissions basis.
Andrian Dacy, Global Head, J.P. Morgan Alternative’s Global Transportation Group commented: “We are excited to be expanding our footprint in a new fuel technology, in line with our GHG reduction investment orientation. We are also pleased to have expanded our partnership with Total Energies, with whom we have developed a range of initiatives across a number of transportation segments. We look forward to working together in supporting TotalEnergie’s global commitment to a clean energy future.”
Jerome Cousin, Senior Vice President Shipping at TotalEnergies, said: "In the midst of the rapid expansion of Methanol as a marine fuel, TotalEnergies is taking a significant step forward by introducing MR tankers propelled by dual fuel methanol technology into our time-chartered fleet. This initiative aligns with the Company’s commitment to reducing the carbon footprint of our shipping activity. With LNG as marine fuel already implemented on our larger size tankers, integrating Methanol in its lower GHG content form, will play a key role in steering the carbon emissions reduction across our fleet.
"We are delighted to extend our enduring partnership with JP Morgan GTG, a like-minded ally dedicated to advancing low-carbon shipping solutions."
ioCurrents partners with Bergan Marine Systems to help optimise vessel performance
ioCurrents, Inc., a leading predictive analytics supplier to the shipping industry, has partnered with Bergan Marine Systems to interpret live data from their onboard sensors to optimize vessel performance.
For over 45 years, Bergan Marine Systems has operated as marine safety consultants and equipment suppliers of cargo protection systems for barges, ships, and U.S. government vessels. The company creates custom marine systems that address the unique challenges of shipwrights, engineers, naval architects, and shipyards.
ioCurrents will consolidate all vessel cargo data on Bergan Marine’s specially developed platform called Bergan Connect. Using clever AI and machine learning programs that analyse onboard data in real time, ioCurrents will provide invaluable dashboard insights for barge and tug operators to help them optimize their onboard equipment functionality.
The data analytics will also help crew plan maintenance schedules in advance to ensure the operational reliability and safety of the vessels. Looking further ahead, the team at ioCurrents will be able to help with route optimization to reduce the amount of fuel used on trips so operators will not only save money but will also reduce their carbon emissions.
“We’re calling this collaboration “Bergan Connect powered by ioCurrents” and we’re looking forward to it going live very soon as we know what a positive impact it will have on vessel performance and safety management,” explained Bergan Marine’s President and CEO Kyle Durden.
“I am really excited about the additional input that the team at ioCurrents will be able to provide our clients. Using their expertise to consolidate and analyse the live data from our onboard sensors will provide our clients with actionable insights that will allow them to make efficiency gains and create a more sustainable business model,” he added.
“We’re really proud to be working with Bergan Marine Systems to help formulate more efficient, safer and environmentally friendly solutions for the Workboat sector. Our algorithms will monitor the onboard data and alert crew to any anomalies in equipment performance. This will enable them to make fact-based decisions to improve operational efficiencies,” said Jon Best, ioCurrents Director of Business Development.
ABS joins Korean industry leaders on 3D printing project for ship operations
ABS signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) to work with key stakeholders in Korea to develop and demonstrate a 3D printing system for ocean-going vessels.
Using a digital library for the design process, the system aims to support rapid maintenance, repair and operations (MRO) by using 3D printing, also known as additive manufacturing (AM), to manufacture parts on a vessel while at sea.
ABS joins project partners Ulsan Metropolitan City, Ulsan ICT Promotion Agency, Korea Institute of Industrial Technology, Korea Marine Equipment Research Institute, CSCam, HD Hyundai Heavy Industries, HD Korea Shipbuilding & Offshore Engineering, HMM, and the Korean Register of Shipping.
“We are proud to join this new project with HD Hyundai. AM technologies have a vast potential to revolutionize production methods, shorten supply chain lead time and provide flexibility to end users in the maritime and related industries,” said Gareth Burton, ABS Vice President of Technology. “ABS is committed to supporting the continued innovation of this technology through joint projects such as this and through our approval and certification process while maintaining our focus on quality and safety.”
Mr. Seongho Jeon, Chief Technology Officer (CTO) at HD Hyundai Heavy Industries, said: “This is an exciting milestone as the company celebrates the commencement of a significant research and development effort focused on the creation of a cutting-edge 3D printing system designed to enhance maintenance, repair, and operations (MRO) within the maritime industry. HD Hyundai Heavy Industries is making the effort to develop 3D printing technologies to expand the applications into the shipbuilding industry.”
WinGD approves Chevron's Taro Ultra Advanced 40 for both VLSFO and LNG general use
Chevron Marine Products’ Taro Ultra Advanced 40 oil has successfully passed NOL (No Objection Letter) requirements by engine manufacturer WinGD. This follows the earlier NOL award for Taro Ultra Advanced 40 from MAN Energy Solutions.
This latest test validates the suitability of the oil for use in WinGD engines operating with liquid fuels containing sulphur in the range 0.00<1.50 % m/m, which includes Very Low Sulphur Fuel Oil (VLSFO). The test also approved the general usage of Taro Ultra Advanced 40 when burning Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG) in WinGD engines.
The field test was carried out on a WinGD 9X82 low speed engine while burning VLSFO. The engine condition at end of testing was very clean with low wear and deposit levels (piston pictured), and this good outcome resulted in the NOL being extended to include Gas General Usage by WinGD.
“We appreciate the ongoing collaboration with Chevron, and are always pleased to give our customers more good options to choose from when considering engine lubrication. WinGD continues to work closely with Chevron, and other lubricant developers, to develop innovative solutions addressing the future fuel mix to meet the anticipated needs of our engines, changing legislation and the market in general.” said Frank Venter of WinGD.
“The successful testing of Taro Ultra Advanced 40 from two leading engine manufacturers, namely WinGD and MAN Energy Solutions, is a clear endorsement of the oil’s ability to perform its core functions of lubrication, acid neutralization, and cleanliness well. We are implementing supply strategies to ensure Taro Ultra Advanced 40 is available where our customers need it. And as more ship operators take up high-performance 40 BN oils, we will expand our capabilities with a vision of having a global footprint. We are continuing the testing process to ensure the product is similarly effective on a range of engine types, including those in early development,” explained Luc Verbeeke, Senior Staff Engineer, Chevron Marine Products.
Taro Ultra Advanced 40 is the latest addition to Chevron’s existing range of Taro Ultra oils, including Taro Ultra 100 and Taro Ultra 140. Taro Ultra Advanced 40 is specifically designed to keep pistons clean at moderate BN and oil ash levels, eliminating the need to alternate with cylinder oils of higher and lower BN to help maintain cleanliness.
Maersk launches new rail offering from Barcelona to Southern France for shorter transit times
Maersk is launching a new rail product from the Port of Barcelona to Southern France especially designed to cut transit times of ocean cargo destined to the areas Toulouse, Bordeaux and Lyon by using Barcelona as an alternative gateway.
Starting early November there will be three weekly direct block trains between Barcelona and Toulouse as well as one weekly connection between Barcelona and Lyon. Via Toulouse the solution also connects cargo to Bordeaux seamlessly by using a partner network. Furthermore, it is intended to extend the connectivity on the Spanish side by rail to the areas of Tarragona and Zaragoza.
This new offering can shorten transit times for im- and export cargo in the areas Toulouse, Bordeaux and Lyon by up to 12 days (7 days on average) compared to traditional routings via French or North European ports. Thanks to shorter transport distances and the utilisation of electrified trains it can also be a more environmentally friendly routing. The block trains can also be booked for intra-continental cargo between Spain and France.
“We are always striving to improve and simplify logistics solutions for our customers and offer better alternatives,” says Emilio de la Cruz, Managing Director of Maersk’s Area South West Europe. “By offering them our reliable landside distribution network via rail from the Port of Barcelona we will also increase reliability and resilience in our customers’ supply chains.”
Maersk is operating this new end to end service via its own company APM Spain Railways and cooperates for the trains with the partners Captrain and Naviland. Thanks to brand new interoperable locomotives, the block trains neither have to stop to change the locomotive or replace wheel-sets at the Spanish-French border for seamless operations and best-in-class reliability.
‘Embracing digitalisation a necessity for maritime trade’ MSC CEO emphasises at Global Sustainable Transport Forum 2023
Speaking for the first time at the Global Sustainable Transport Forum as a keynote speaker, MSC CEO Soren Toft last week delivered a speech on the transformative potential of digital technologies in the maritime industry. He reflected on MSC’s ongoing digital journey as a world leader in container shipping and logistics, and shared his views on the sector’s future.
Hosted by the Ministry of Transport of the People's Republic of China, this high-level event unfolded over 25-26 September 2023, with a core focus on sustainable development in transport and the importance of cooperating to achieve the United Nations 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development. Soren Toft spoke on the first day of the two-day forum ‘Promoting Connectivity in the Digital Age’ in Beijing, the capital of China.
Mr Toft’s opening remarks centred on the symbiotic relationship between technological advances and sustainable development: “At MSC, sustainability and digitization are not considered independent concepts. We see them as complementing and reinforcing each other, creating a powerful synergy to drive change.” For MSC, embracing this synergy is not merely an option but an imperative for the entire shipping industry.
Mr Toft explained that MSC is heavily investing in cutting-edge technologies to optimize the customer experience and meet the surging demand for digital solutions, without losing the company’s personalized approach to customer care. “We have to enhance our services, we have to improve our website, and we have to create many other interfaces with our clients – something that is much easier to do today, when the digital tools are available” he said.
Digitizing assets such as ships and containers will also help the company to receive better insights and, ultimately, reduce its environmental impact. “This will make us more efficient, but also give more real-time information to our customers,” Mr Toft explained.
While collecting data brings clear benefits, Mr Toft underscored the importance of sharing this data: “We will reap the benefits of digitalization if the supply chain stakeholders work together more, from carriers to ports, but also customs authorities and technology providers. Seamless data sharing throughout the shipping process will be a game changer as we move forward.”
As a founding member of the Digital Container Shipping Association (DCSA), MSC is committed to standardizing the information flow in shipping. “We advocate for industry standards that support digital connectivity and real interoperability,” Mr Toft explained, citing e-documentation (e.g. the electronic Bill of Lading or eBL) and cargo visibility standards as examples. In addition, the company actively contributes to collaborative data-sharing projects such as the White House’s FLOW initiative and the Rotterdam-Singapore Green and Digital Shipping Corridor.
In his concluding remarks, Soren Toft issued a powerful call for collaboration, reminding the audience of government officials that change will only be possible if the entire maritime industry is on board.
German First Lady Elke Büdenbender christens ‘Berlin Express’
Hapag-Lloyd this week officially welcomed into its fleet the ‘Berlin Express’, the first ship of its new Hamburg Express class. At an event attended by some 300 guests from business and politics, godmother Elke Büdenbender – wife of Germany’s current President Frank-Walter Steinmeier - performed the ceremonial christening of the ship at the Container Terminal Burchardkai (Athabaskakai) in the Port of Hamburg.
Among the guests were Peter Tschentscher, the First Mayor of Hamburg, and Daniel Günther, the Minister President of Schleswig-Holstein, while the Hapag-Lloyd presence was led by CEO Rolf Habben Jansen.
The Hamburg Express class will mark the beginning of a new era for Hapag-Lloyd and its fleet. In total, a dozen state-of-the-art large container ships will be put into service by 2025. Together, these vessels will make an important contribution to Hapag-Lloyd’s efforts to operate its entire fleet in a climate-neutral manner by 2045. Thanks to their cutting-edge dual-fuel technology, they will also be able to operate using non-fossil fuels, such as bio-methane and e-methane, and thereby generate hardly any CO2 emissions.
For the time being, liquefied natural gas (LNG) will be used, which will reduce CO2 emissions by up to 25 percent and soot emissions by 95 percent. In addition, advanced components – such as an optimised hull and a highly efficient propeller – will help the vessels to reduce fuel consumption and thereby greenhouse gas emissions.
“With the new Hamburg Express class, Hapag-Lloyd is at a turning point,” Habben Jansen said. “The highly efficient ships will allow us to reduce our emissions immediately and to a very significant degree. At the same time, they are an important building block in our strategy to gradually push ahead with decarbonisation. All the vessels in this class will sail under German flag and thereby make an important contribution to strengthening Germany as a shipping hub.”
The Berlin Express was built at the Hanwha Ocean shipyard in South Korea. With a length of almost 400 metres and a capacity of 23,600 TEU, it is the largest cargo ship ever to sail under German flag. The container ships in the Hamburg Express class will exclusively operate on the cargo-intensive Far East route between Asia and Europe. The Berlin Express will operate regularly on the FE3 service, which sails between Ningbo and Hamburg, via Xiamen, Kaohsiung, Yantian, Hong Kong, Singapore and Rotterdam.
The Nautical Institute Singapore branch reveals speaker lineup for annual conference
Following extensive deliberation and in-depth brainstorming, The Nautical Institute Singapore Branch announce the list of speakers for its annual conference. The conference will host close to 200 maritime professionals and key industry leaders who will be immersed in three comprehensive panel discussions.
The fifth edition of this annual conference will be happening at M Hotel Singapore on 27 October 2023. The Guest of Honour will be Mr. Teo Eng Dih, Chief Executive, Maritime Port Authority of Singapore (MPA) who will also be delivering the welcome speech. Subsequently, Managing Director of Gard Singapore, John Martin, and The Nautical Institute, Global Vice President Capt. W.N.S.K.A.M. Wijayakulathilaka (Nish) will kick off the conference with their respective keynote addresses.
The theme for this year is ‘Seafaring in the modern, and everchanging millennium’, which aims to dive into an overarching focus on the future of seafarers in the maritime industry. These include rapid improvements in technology, additional regulations, environmental concerns, and new fuel systems being introduced onboard ships.
During the conference, panel discussions will also be accompanied by speaking slots represented by various organisations. The confirmed speaking slots and panel topics along with both the esteemed moderators and speakers are as follows:
Session 1: Sustainability: Fuelling the Future
• [Moderator] Capt Saunak Rai, General Manager, FueLNG
• Capt Nish Wijayakulathilaka, Vice President, The Nautical Institute
• Susana Germino, General Manager, Sustainability and Decarbonisation, Swire Bulk
• Karmesh Tiwari, Head of New Technology, MC Shipping
• Dr Sanjay C Kuttan, Chief Technology Officer, Global Centre for Maritime Decarbonisation (GCMD)
• Ashish Anilan, Asst. Director - Sustainability Lead (iCARE), Bureau Veritas Marine (Singapore)
Speaking Slot Session 1: SEAFIT Survey
• Apo Belokas, Managing Editor SAFETY4SEA
Speaking Slot Session 2: Mission to Seafarers
• Capt. Rob Walker, Chairman, Mission to Seafarers Singapore
Session 2: Seafarers: Going Beyond Certification
• [Moderator] Capt Hari Subramaniam, Regional Head - Business Relations and Medisea, Shipowners Club
• Capt. Rob Walker, Chairman, Mission to Seafarers
• Capt. Soma Sundar Gollakota, Co-founder & CEO, Big Yellow Fish
• (other speakers to be confirmed)
Speaking Slot Session 3: Active Anchorage Management & JIT
• Capt .Chong Jia Chyuan, Maritime and Port Authority of Singapore (MPA)
Session 3: Navigation: Charting a Course Towards an Autonomous Bridge
• [Moderator] Capt Kunal Nakra, Deputy Director, Transport Safety Investigation Bureau, MOT Singapore
• Capt. Zheng Yi, Deputy Director, Maritime and Port Authority of Singapore (MPA)
• Prantika Sengupta, Deputy General Counsel, Asia Pacific, CMA CGM Group
• Chit Htwe, Senior Lecturer, Singapore Maritime Academy (SMA)
• Capt. Himanshu Chopra, Managing Director, Anglo-Eastern Maritime Services
Capt. Yves Vandenborn FNI, Honorary President of The Nautical Institute (Singapore) commented: “We are thrilled to announce the distinguished speakers line up for this year’s conference. Each one of them brings a unique perspective, invaluable expertise, and a passion for driving change in our industry. One of our goals is to create a platform and event where thought leaders can share their insights, inspire innovation, and spark meaningful discussions on challenges faced by seafarers, maintaining the safety and efficiency of shipping operations globally.”
Interested parties can now register at:
https://reg.eventnook.com/event/thenauticalinstituteconference2023
Tanker giants Euronav and Frontline in discussions to end their dispute
Euronav confirms that Frontline and CMB NV, its major shareholders, are in discussions on an integrated solution to what it calls the ‘strategic and structural deadlock’ in the company following Frontline’s calling off of its planned merger with Euronav in january this year.
Under the mooted transaction:
• CMB would acquire Frontline’s 26.12% stake in the Company for $18.43 per share, to be followed by a public mandatory share sale at the same price.
• Frontline would acquire 24 VLCC tankers from the Euronav fleet for $2.35 billion, subject to completion of the above-mentioned share purchase and to approval by shareholders voting at a Special General Meeting
• Euronav’s pending arbitration action against Frontline and affiliates over the aborted merger would be terminated conditional to the share sale.
Euronav says the discussions between the parties are well advanced but there can be no certainty that these discussions will lead to an agreement. The aforementioned is in any case subject to all necessary internal approvals of the involved parties. If the negotiations would result in a formal agreement, such agreement will be subject to customary competition clearance procedures and any required approval procedures with the financial market authorities in Belgium and the US.
As a result of press speculation about the above and resulting volatility of the Euronav share price, Euronav shares were suspended on Euronext Brussels.
Orion Global Transport France registers its first two vessels under French flag
Orion Global Transport France (OGTF) has announced the successful registration of its first two vessels with the French ship register for commercial vessels (RIF).
The 173,000 m3 capacity LNG carrier, Orion Bohemia, built by Hyundai Heavy Industry delivered in 2022 and the similar sized Orion Monet, was built by Samsung Heavy Industries and delivered in 2022. Both vessels are among the most modern LNG vessel designs on the water today. They are both powered by WinGD X72-DF engines and their Mark III Flex containment systems are manufactured by leading French engineering firm GTT. The vessels are chartered to leading global energy companies.
Orion Global Transport France was incorporated in France in 2022, as a sustainability focused transportation company, with a commitment to the efficient and safe carriage of LNG energy globally. The company was created both to meet the needs of European energy security and to promote long-term investment in carbon reduction strategies for the transportation industry. OGTF was founded by institutional investors, advised by J.P. Morgan Global Alternative’s Global Transportation Group.
OGTF will entrust the command of the Orion Bohemia to Captain Evelyne Rogge. Her notable career, both on board and on shore, illustrates the company’s commitment to promoting diversity across the board and the growing role of women in the maritime sector.
"Since the inception of our company, it has been a major objective of ours to register tonnage with the French flag," adds Loic Aballéa, President of Orion Global Transport France. "With a growing team based in Paris, we are proud of the work we have accomplished over the past year. We have brought together the talent and skills necessary to successfully operate a fleet of highly technical vessels."
“France is a leading maritime nation and is the country of choice for a company committed to the global transition to future carbon-efficient fuels and sustainable LNG transportation," says Andrian Dacy, Global Head of J.P. Morgan Alternative’s Global Transportation Group.
“France’s historical maritime tradition, leading maritime companies, and broad base of unique maritime talent is an exceptional beacon within the global shipping industry, and we are excited to see OGTF become a participant in this critical French industry sector.”
Shipping sector's methane abatement initiative begins pilot projects
Safetytech Accelerator, in collaboration with CoolCo, MOL and Shell International Trading and Shipping Company Limited, has chosen Green Instruments and Everimpact as the first two technology providers to be evaluated by the flagship Methane Abatement in Maritime innovation initiative (MAMII), set up to tackle the challenge of measuring methane emissions from combustion onboard ships.
Launched in September 2022 and led by Safetytech Accelerator, MAMII brings together industry leaders, technology innovators, and maritime stakeholders to advance technologies for measuring and mitigating methane emissions in the maritime sector. It currently has 16 leading shipping companies as Anchor Partners.
Safetytech Accelerator evaluated more than 80 methane measurement technology companies and initially selected 12 to join their technology ecosystem. From this cohort, Everimpact and Green Instruments have been the first invited to join an evaluation phase which includes feasibility studies and pilots in partnership with MAMII Anchor Partners CoolCo, MOL, and Shell.
In its first year, MAMII has focused on identifying and evaluating new technologies to monitor and reduce methane emissions from LNG-fuelled vessels, with a particular emphasis on measuring unburned methane in the exhaust stack, known as 'methane slip'. Once these solutions are validated, the initiative will seek to encourage adoption by shipping companies.
Green Instruments is a global organisation headquartered in Denmark, specialising in cutting-edge measurement and analysis technologies for both marine and land-based industries. Their G7000 CEMS is known for its SOx and CO2 monitoring capabilities for scrubber applications. The solution has not only proven its resilience in the harshest maritime conditions but also boasts a global service network, ensuring support reaches every corner of the world.
The upcoming G7200 is set to elevate user-friendliness and serviceability even further. With its modular design, it unlocks a multitude of options for monitoring a wide array of gases.
“We are thrilled to be selected amongst the industry providers and look forward to participating in this work that fall so much in line with the vision of our company,” said Casper Nørgaard Jensen, Sales Manager at Green Instruments. “The decarbonisation transition relies on facts and not assumptions, hence it is imperative that we start to actually measure ship emissions and collect accurate and concrete data.
“Why not leverage the technology that is readily available so that everyone can have a more accurate picture when discussing ship emissions – a practice which has been in place on land for many years?”
Everimpact started its journey as a real-time GHG monitoring platform for cities using satellites, sensors and AI. It has partnered with Mitsubishi and Wilhelmsen to launch a sensor-based continuous emissions measurement system (CEMS) for ships, which is already implemented on a Mitsubishi vessel. Everimpact offers a gas analyser and platform measuring GHG emissions – CH4, CO2, CO, NO, NO2 and SO2 - from exhaust stacks in real time. The solution uses a cabinet that is safely deployed away from the stack yet connected via a heated sample line.
“We’re excited that our continuous emissions measurement system, already used to measure fuel emissions from the exhaust stacks of ships, is being evaluated to track methane slip,” said Mathieu Carlier, Everimpact CEO and Founder. “Joining forces with MAMII will get us one step further on our mission to accelerate the decarbonisation of shipping with better data.”
Nadia Echchihab, Head of Innovation Programmes at Safetytech Accelerator, said: "We take pride in supporting our MAMII Anchor Partners in the identification and testing of innovative solutions capable of accurately and continuously measuring methane emissions from exhaust stacks.
“The technology companies involved in this endeavour are confronted with a multitude of challenges, including adapting their technology for the demanding maritime environment and achieving a price point that is viable for shipowners and operators. MAMII is bridging this gap by fostering collaboration between industry and technology firms, facilitating joint efforts through feasibility studies and pilots that will yield valuable insights and proof points to be shared with other members of the initiative."
The outcomes of these trials will be shared later this year.
OOCL announces new China Cambodia Thailand Service (CCT1 & CCT2)
OOCL is pleased to introduce the new China Cambodia Thailand Service (CCT1 & CCT2) that it says will further strengthen its Intra-Asia service network by connecting China, Cambodia and Thailand with competitive and reliable shipment options.
CCT1 and CCT2 will directly connect multiple ports between Thailand, China, Vietnam and Cambodia to cater for the increasing demand in the market, says the company/
CCT1 port rotation: Bangkok (PAT) - Bangkok (Suksawat) - Laem Chabang – Ho Chi Minh – Ningbo – Shanghai – Laem Chabang - Bangkok (PAT)
CCT2 port rotation (pictured): Bangkok (PAT) - Laem Chabang - Ningbo – Shanghai - Shekou - Sihanoukville - Bangkok (PAT)
The first sailing of CCT1 and CCT2 will start from Bangkok on November 5 and November 4 respectively.
In late September OOCL was recognized as ‘Best Shipping Line – Intra-Asia’ at the 2023 Asian Freight, Logistics and Supply Chain (AFLAS) Awards ceremony held in Singapore, a distinction it won previously in 2021.
Kitack Lim and Petra Wilkinson honoured in a special ceremony celebrating contributions to diversity in the maritime sector
The Women's International Shipping and Trading Association UK (WISTA UK) held a special ceremony at the IMO headquarters on Friday, 6 October. The occasion served as the official platform to present Kitack Lim, Secretary-General of the IMO, with his WISTA UK Man of the Year award. He could not attend the Annual IMO Summer Reception held by WISTA UK in June where Petra Wilkinson CBE, received her Woman of the Year award.
Mr Lim's accolade recognises his unwavering dedication to championing diversity and inclusion within the maritime industry. His endeavours have played a seminal role in propelling WISTA UK and its international counterpart. The event will mark the final official occasion for WISTA UK to extend their heartfelt gratitude to Mr Lim as he concludes his term at the IMO.
Petra Wilkinson CBE, Director of Maritime at the Department for Transport, also graced the occasion. Her award acknowledges her laudable commitment to diversity and inclusion, fortified by a wealth of 33 years of experience in maritime operations, strategy, and programmes.
Members of the WISTA UK board presented the award to Kitack Lim. Monica Kohli, President of WISTA UK, said: "The ceremony not only celebrates our esteemed honourees but also accentuates the imperative need for a more inclusive maritime sector. Their tireless work has been instrumental in advocating for an industry that truly represents the diversity of the community it serves."
WISTA UK continues to focus on nurturing the next generation through its commitment to the Maritime London Officer Cadet Scholarship (MLOCS). The programme aims to raise £30,000 this year to fund a female Sea Cadet Scholarship. "It's a significant initiative that addresses the gender gap and promotes equal opportunities within maritime careers," commented Baroness Vere, Parliamentary Under Secretary of State at the Department for Transport (Aviation, Maritime and Security).
This ceremony illustrates the importance of fostering a culture of diversity and inclusion in maritime industries, both within the UK and internationally.
Moving from talk to action for decarbonisation still requires more standardisation: Inmarsat
The Inmarsat Connected Future Conference at this year’s London International Shipping Week last month examined how the industry can move from talk to practical solutions that can ensure satellite technology plays a decisive role in shaping smarter and more sustainable shipping.
Inmarsat Maritime’s President Ben Palmer provided the scene-setting keynote address for the first panel discussion on collaboration, technology, data sharing and balancing the imperatives of growth with reduced ship emissions.
He reiterated his message that “connectivity is the oxygen-sustaining opportunities for shipping to create value and cut its CO2 emissions.”
And guest speaker Helen Sharman CMG OBE, who became the UK’s first astronaut in 1991, wrapped up the afternoon with an inspiring speech about the importance of collaborative team efforts in space missions.
The panel, which was moderated by Giampiero Soncini, Managing Director, Oceanly, included Peter Schellenberger, Founder of Novamaxis, James Pomeroy, Global Economist, HSBC; and Marco Cristoforo Camporeale, Senior Director, Strategy at Inmarsat Maritime as speakers.
Peter Schellenberger of Novamaxis stressed that it was now “high time for action” to advance shipping’s smart and sustainable agenda, picking low hanging fruits by adopting proven solutions from other sectors, such as the aviation industry.
Breaking down silos that prevent necessary information sharing was being helped by the need to respond to ESG (Environmental, Social and Governance) criteria, he said.
However, he cautioned that more standardisation of maritime protocols was a vital first step, citing 14 non-compatible types of noon report as having to be written by one ship management company.
Leaders in ship supply and management are needed to bring greater compatibility, Schellenberger said. “If we all put our heads together, we can make our lives so much easier. In this new world reliable information and access to it is the backbone of future changes.”
Empowerment of vessel control centres is also necessary to achieve efficiency gains, he added, and “will drive meaningful change.”
Maritime software veteran Giampiero Soncini, who now heads Oceanly, said: “Everyone wants control centres, but few have a clear understanding on how to effectively use them.”
Inmarsat’s Marco Camporeale said just 40,000 out of 170,000 ships registered by the IMO have data transmission speeds capable of taking advantage of onboard digital systems for voyage optimisation.
“So, four out of five ships do not have the level of connectivity required to power artificial intelligence and machine learning. We are still far from realising that vision of a connected future, where we can look at a shipping industry that can meet the 2050 IMO targets for decarbonisation” he said.
It is not just a question of data speeds, but understanding the value that can be extracted from connectivity, he added, but discussions on creating a standard automated version for noon reports are still ongoing.
Schellenberger responded that greater integration of IT systems is also required. Most historical systems do not have open APIs to integrate them. It could take up to 20 emails to order one spare part, he said.
Seafarers, who have their own phones and computers, step back technologically 20-30 years when they board a ship, and training has not kept pace with changes coming to the equipment and alternative fuels they will use in future, Schellenberger said.
One in three seafarers looks for connectivity on board as more important than salary when looking at which owner or ship manager to work for, added Camporeale.
Soncini said Japan is leading the race toward autonomous shipping allowing fewer crew to operate vessels. “In the last seven years the Japanese have congregated everyone – classification societies, ship managers, owners and shipyards - and standardised everything.” The rest of the world needs to follow suit to achieve decarbonisation, he said.
Shipping had remained too reactive to legislative change, rather than proactive, Soncini added, with recent changes like the Carbon Intensity Indicator (CII) imposed in ways that left it unclear how decarbonisation would result.
Economists had not woken up to the importance of shipping in supply chains until the shock of the Covid pandemic, said James Pomeroy at HSBC, but that had changed now.
The last 12 months had seen a period of inventory rebuilding as demand fell back after the surge during the pandemic when supply chains were unable to respond. New demand from Asia was likely to lead recovery even if China’s role switched from production of goods to a buyer of them.
Pomeroy said: “The outlook for now for the economy feeding back into shipping isn’t great, but it will come back. We are not forecasting recessions or a collapse in demand. You just need this inventory cycle to play through and you will get a natural pick up. It’s probably going to be a 2024 story”.
However, he said inflation was a factor with wage rises in parts of the supply chain currently exceeding price increases, such as a shortage of drivers for haulage.
Port of Rotterdam supports ZEMBA initiative with additional incentive for sustainable shipping fuels
Port of Rotterdam will offer a substantial port fee reduction for ships that bunker sustainable fuels in Rotterdam, supporting the recently announced Zero Emissions Maritime Buyers Alliance (ZEMBA) and recognizing front runners in the road to maritime decarbonisation.
Boudewijn Siemons, COO and interim CEO of the Port of Rotterdam said: “It is vital that the shipping industry makes the switch to zero-emission fuels. The ZEMBA consortium has launched a fantastic initiative with a willingness to pay carriers a premium for the use of zero-emission fuels, which are still more expensive than traditional fuels. With the additional support from our side we want to give carriers maximum incentive to make this switch.”
ZEMBA, an initiative of coZEV (Cargo Owners for Zero Emission Vessels), recently launched a request for proposals for the transport of 600,000 TEU on ocean-going container vessels powered by zero-emissions fuels.
To support this, and as part of its ongoing efforts to enable and accelerate the transition to zero-emission shipping, the Port of Rotterdam offers a port fee reduction for these large container vessels when bunkering sustainable fuels in Rotterdam, which can run up to 500.000 euros in total.
To qualify, a ship has to bunker alternative fuels in Rotterdam with at least 90% reduction in greenhouse gases, such as green methanol or ammonia. The Port of Rotterdam Authority has also determined that discount does not apply to bio-blended fuel oil, marine gas oil, or marine diesel oil, as that market is already mature in Rotterdam.
The Port Rotterdam already extends discounts to more sustainable vessels that score high on the Environmental Ship Index (ESI) and is an international front runner in facilitating the bunkering of zero-emission fuels. In 2022, the port launched a Green & Digital Corridor project together with the Maritime Port Authority of Singapore, which also offers discounts for carriers using sustainable fuels. This means ships using sustainable fuels on the Singapore-Rotterdam trade lane can benefit from financial incentives from both ports as well as ZEMBA.
Jumbo Offshore to transport and install wind farm TPs for Van Oord
Jumbo Offshore has been contracted by Dutch dredging and offshore wind specialist Van Oord for the transportation and installation of transition pieces for the Baltic Eagle offshore wind project in the German Baltic Sea.
Operations on the project are to commence in October 2023. Due to the close cooperation and extensive experience between the Jumbo Offshore and Van Oord project teams, the preparation time has been very efficient.
Under the contract, Jumbo Offshore will be responsible for transportation and installation (T&I) of transition pieces from the marshalling yard to the offshore wind farm site.
“To date, Jumbo Offshore has transported and installed over 400 transition pieces with our DP2 heavy lift vessels,” says Brian Boutkan, Manager Commerce at Jumbo Offshore. “After working together on the Arkona offshore wind farm, we are looking forward to working for Van Oord again.
“This project award shows the continuation of our focus in the offshore wind industry with our efficient T&I solutions as well as the trust of our clients on our capabilities and equipment.”
Jumbo Offshore to transport and install wind farm TPs for Van Oord
Jumbo Offshore has been contracted by Dutch dredging and offshore wind specialist Van Oord for the transportation and installation of transition pieces for the Baltic Eagle offshore wind project in the German Baltic Sea.
Operations on the project are to commence in October 2023. Due to the close cooperation and extensive experience between the Jumbo Offshore and Van Oord project teams, the preparation time has been very efficient.
Under the contract, Jumbo Offshore will be responsible for transportation and installation (T&I) of transition pieces from the marshalling yard to the offshore wind farm site.
“To date, Jumbo Offshore has transported and installed over 400 transition pieces with our DP2 heavy lift vessels,” says Brian Boutkan, Manager Commerce at Jumbo Offshore. “After working together on the Arkona offshore wind farm, we are looking forward to working for Van Oord again.
“This project award shows the continuation of our focus in the offshore wind industry with our efficient T&I solutions as well as the trust of our clients on our capabilities and equipment.”
Pelagic Partners secures 20% stake in publicly listed Golden Energy Offshore Services
Cyprus-based Pelagic Partners, an alternative investment fund founded by Dr. Niels Hartmann and Atef Abou Merhi, announces it has acquired a 20% stake in Golden Energy Offshore Services (GEOS) through the public company’s latest round of private placement. The private placement was led by the company’s largest shareholder, Oaktree Capital Management.
Pelagic Partners acquired 95 million shares to secure a 20% ownership stake and become the 2nd largest shareholder in GEOS. Pelagic Partners will also have a seat on the Board of Directors.
Alesund-based Golden Energy Offshore Services is a fully integrated shipowner and operator specializing in modern and high-spec offshore service vessels for the global oil and gas industry. The Company (GEOS:NO) is listed on the Oslo Euronext Growth Market.
Pelagic Partners describes GEOS is a very exciting company with one of the youngest PSV (Platform Supply Vessel) fleets ready to capitalize on an accelerating market with plenty of room for growth. “Furthermore, the governance framework, senior leadership team, and shareholder composition of the company reinforce our confidence in GEOS' journey toward success,” it says.
Pelagic Partners has previous experience in the offshore market and aims to share its knowledge and expertise to contribute to GEOS's future. Noting an “underinvestment in the general oil and gas market over the past 5-7 years’, the fund says it has strategically focused on modern and eco-friendly vessels as it believes they will be sought after in the years to come.
The investment was executed through the Pelagic Yield Fund compartment, adding further diversity to the portfolio through segments with the potential to generate robust annual yields.
BV Solutions M&O extends collaboration agreement with Spanish noise and vibrations specialists TS!
Bureau Veritas Solutions Marine & Offshore (BV Solutions M&O), a technical advisory component of Bureau Veritas Group, a world leader in testing, inspection, and certification, has extended its collaboration agreement with TSI S.L. (Técnicas Y Servicios De Ingeniería, S.L.) the Spanish company specialising in noise and vibrations engineering solutions.
The collaboration agreement between the two companies will enhance the worldwide capabilities of BV Solutions M&O to directly address requirements for noise and vibration and underwater noise predictive calculations.
High-grade comfort for crews and passengers demands robust noise and vibration expertise to support the design and build of vessels, and while initially dedicated to cruise ships, these requirements were extended to ferries, gas carriers and other crew transfer vessels, service operations vessels and tugs in the last decade. Standards for Navy vessels have also become more demanding and TSI has successfully brought its expertise to this market sector.
BV Solutions M&O and BV have worked with TSI for 20 years, initially as co-partners on research and development projects, and then co-involved in industrial projects. By joining the core expertise of both organisations, the partnership has enabled the building of a complete service offering to answer noise and vibration challenges.
Paul Shrieve, President, BV Solutions M&O, said: “We are delighted to have extended our collaboration with TSI – a company with 40 years’ experience in providing high-quality noise and vibration services for assets around the world.
“From engines, turbines, compressors, pumps and HVAC equipment to the motion of the sea, the sources of noise and vibration on marine and offshore assets are numerous. They can compromise the health, safety and comfort of passengers and crew, as well as impair the performance of onboard equipment. Underwater noise can also be severely disruptive to marine life.
“But it is not just vessels that can be impacted. For offshore assets, vibration in rotating machinery or the asset structure itself can be very damaging to production performance and to offshore personnel.
“Our collaboration with TSI will enhance our unrivalled expertise in predictive calculations and measurements to optimise noise and vibration constraints throughout an asset’s entire lifecycle.”
Publio Beltran, General Manager of Madrid-headquartered TSI, said: “We are extremely honoured to have extended our collaboration agreement with BV Solutions M&O.
“It is a privilege for us to be associated with one of the world’s leading ship classification societies and offshore safety and verification bodies, and we look forward to continuing our successful relationship together.”
TT Club appoints new Regional General Manager for Asia-Pacific
Kamel Tlili has taken up the role of Regional General Manager Asia-Pacific for international freight and logistics insurer, TT Club based in its Singapore office from 3rd October.
Tasked both with maintaining the strong market position the Club enjoys in the region and expanding its reach, particularly in the fast-growing logistics sector, Kamel (pictured) has the necessary experience to tackle the challenge. He joins TT after a successful period of six years leading British Marine’s P&I Underwriting Division in Asia at QBE. During this time, he focused on the strategic development and diversification of the portfolio and was pivotal in the transformation of British Marine’s presence within Asia.
Kamel is well known in the marine mutual community, having previously spent a total of fourteen years at TT’s sister mutual, UK P&I both as an Underwriting Director and Claims Director. He also has sea-going experience at the start of his career after taking a Master’s Degree in Maritime Law at Aix-Marseille University.
In making the announcement Kevin King, TT’s Deputy CEO said: “We are excited to have Kamel join TT with his wealth of marine insurance experience and extensive contacts in the Asia Pacific markets. Kamel is leading a highly experienced, first-class team of underwriting and claims executives and will look to build upon the success the region has had in building and servicing its membership.”
“TT Club has a formidable reputation among industry leaders as well as specialist brokers for its in-depth knowledge of the prevalent risks, and an unequalled claims service,” commented Kamel. “I welcome the opportunity presented by my new role at the Club to bring both of those attributes, as well an industry-leading loss prevention resource to a wider market within the Asia-Pacific region.”
UK P&I Club, also managed by Thomas Miller, has recently announced the appointment of Peter Jones to its newly created role of Underwriting Director in the region. The new appointments combine to strengthen Thomas Miller’s resources in Singapore and underline its commitment to the Asia-Pacific region.
ICS launches CII Data Collection System
The International Chamber of Shipping (ICS) has launched its Carbon Intensity Indicator (CII) Data Collection System.
CII is the rating system developed by the IMO to measure the energy efficiency of ships, above 5,000 gross tonnage and trading internationally, and came into effect on 1 January 2023. It is currently in an experience building phase, with a formal review running in parallel, until 1 January 2026.
Following the IMO’s invitation during the Marine Environment Protection Meeting (MEPC80) in July, for interested Member States and international organisations to collect data and submit information and proposals, ICS has developed a system that enables shipowners and managers to submit data, including fuel consumption, transport work, and the trial metrics.
Such information will enable a clearer understanding of how fairly and effectively the CII system is functioning and provide the necessary input to the IMO for system improvement.
Chris Waddington, Technical Director of the International Chamber of Shipping and lead on the ICS CII Data Collection System commented: “At the International Chamber of Shipping we wish to engage constructively to the current experience building phase of the CII review, to ensure that the system is fit-for-purpose and effective. The ICS Data Collection System offers shipowners and managers the opportunity to contribute data that will improve the rating system in the future.”
“We encourage shipowners to utilise the system in order to offer first-hand insights into what works well and possible challenges within the system. This data will be shared with the IMO and keep dialogues open for how best to meet our 2030, 2040 and 2050 net zero carbon emissions targets.”
In support to the IMO, the ICS invites shipowners and relevant stakeholders to utilise this opportunity and participate in order to contribute to a fair and successful CII rating system going forward.
On this World Mental Health Day, MHSS says it’s time maritime ‘stops assuming’ and ‘starts asking’ when it comes to seafarer wellbeing
Mental Health Support Solutions (MHSS), set up to provide support services exclusively to the maritime sector offering psychological consultations for seafarers needing support for themselves or their crew, has launched a new initiative called ‘Stop Assuming. Start Asking’.
Recently, as part of the campaign, the team has interviewed Captain Andrzej Lasota, the Polish master who was held in a Mexican prison for 20 months on charges of smuggling cocaine despite immediately notifying the authorities when he spotted the drugs. The case has raised industry-wide concerns about the criminalisation of innocent seafarers and the full interview, where Captain Andrzej talks in-depth about his experiences, can be seen by clicking here.
MHSS developed ‘Stop Assuming. Start Asking’ in direct response to a series of interviews with people working in maritime including mental health ambassador Bjorn Brodje from Nordic P&I Group, current seafarers and senior officers. These discussions highlighted that those working at the coal face are the best people to express what is needed to support seafarer wellbeing both while at sea and ashore. The objective of the initiative is to give voice to mariners and ensure that there is a space for their views to be heard by the industry as a whole.
Charles Watkins, CEO of MHSS, said: “The message coming over loud and clear is that everyone needs to communicate in a positive way – whether to ask a fellow seafarer how they are doing, or for senior figures to take the time to help someone rectify a mistake without laying blame. With our ‘Stop Assuming. Start Asking’ campaign we want to create an atmosphere of honesty and transparency where there is no fear attached to admitting that you need help, either with your work or with your wellbeing.
“We are providing a platform for anyone who would like to add to the discussion surrounding welfare and mental health so that the industry has access to the opinions that should really count – those people working at sea.”
The ‘Stop Assuming. Start Asking’ interviews are available to view at https://www.mentalhealth-support.com/initiative.html and give a deeper understanding of how seafarers and people working ashore really feel. If you would like to share your own story or thoughts about what is needed, please get in touch with Veronika Cernakova at MHSS. Veronika@mentalhealth-support.com.
High profile international shipping personalities meet in Limassol for Maritime Cyprus 2023 conference
Monday marked the opening of the internationally renowned “Maritime Cyprus 2023” Conference at the Parklane Resort & Spa in Limassol. Organized in partnership by the Shipping Deputy Ministry of the Republic of Cyprus, the Cyprus Shipping Chamber and the Cyprus Union of Shipowners, this year’s conference is themed ‘Shipping in Action: An Agenda for Change’. More than 900 shipping professionals from around the world, originating from more than 35 countries, attended the Conference, organized biennially in Cyprus.
Dr. Stelios Himonas, Chair of the Conference and Permanent Secretary of the Shipping Deputy Ministry, delivered a welcome address to today’s conference participants. The Chair of the Conference highlighted the importance of the event, which provides a forum for discussions on critical challenges faced by the international shipping industry, and thanked the co-organisers, sponsors, speakers and participants for their contribution and presence, particularly the significant number of the participants who travelled from abroad to attend.
The President of the Republic of Cyprus, Mr. Nikos Christodoulides (pictured, centre left), after opening the Maritime Services Exhibition organized within the framework of the Conference, delivered the opening address. The President emphasized that the shipping sector requires fast reaction and effective response to crises and challenges, innovative planning, adaptability, and a proactive mindset. The President referred to Cyprus’ response to the current crisis in Ukraine and to the fact that maritime transport should be given due attention and a prominent position within the EU.
The President also referred to the contribution of Cyprus to the transition of shipping to a low or even zero carbon industry, the process of digitalizing the Shipping Deputy Ministry’s internal processes, the creation of a one-stop-shipping centre, and the implementation of the Shipping Limited Liability Company Law. The President finally highlighted that Cyprus promotes maritime professions and gender equality in shipping.
Following the President’s speech, Mr Kitack Lim, Secretary General, IMO and Ms Adina Valean, EU Transport Commissioner gave their opening addresses.
Mr Kitack Lim acknowledged the progress the shipping industry has made so far, going on to emphasize the importance of continuing to address existing and incoming challenges. He also highlighted the value of the Maritime Cyprus Conference in offering a platform for collaboration among all maritime stakeholders. Marking his final attendance of the Maritime Cyprus Conference as IMO Secretary General, he concluded that it is imperative that rules and regulations for shipping are amended and implemented globally by the maritime community.
Ms Adina Valean referred to the many opportunities for shipping that are on the horizon, stressing the importance of flexibility in driving the development of green fuels, and the adoption of energy efficiency technologies. “Throughout this process, we must look beyond Europe’s shores to enact changes globally,” she concluded.
The first panel discussion was a ‘Shipping Policy Dialogue’, which took place between Ms Marina Hadjimanolis, Shipping Deputy Minister to the President and Mr Arsenio Dominguez, Director of Marine Environment Division and Secretary-General Elect, IMO.
Ms Marina Hadjimanolis (pictured, centre right) questioned Mr Dominguez about the IMO’s vision, outcomes of MEPC 80 and adoption of the IMO’s Strategy on Reduction of GHG Emissions from Ships, ship recycling, shipping’s image, and gender equality. Mr Arsenio Dominguez stressed how crucial it was to increase the presence of women in the industry, through encouraging female participation in maritime studies, and continuing to campaign for gender equality at IMO level and beyond. “This includes actively working to increase the number of women in senior positions at the IMO,” he said.
The second panel discussion, ‘Sustainable Shipping towards 2050: a Mission (Im)Possible?’, was moderated by Mr Themis Papadopoulos (pictured, far right), CSC President/CEO of Interorient Navigation Co Ltd. The panel included Mr Emanuele Grimaldi, ICS Chairman/President & MD of Grimaldi Euromed SpA, Mr Philippos Philis, ECSA President/Chairman & CEO of Lemissoler Navigation Ltd, Dr Gaby Bornheim, President of German Shipowners’ Association (VDR) and Mr Nikolaus H. Schües, President of BIMCO.
The panel called for clarity on policy, with Mr Themis Papadopoulos suggesting the development of a global, rather than local, set of regulations. “The IMO must develop a new system, instead of requiring members of the shipping industry to comply with multiple sets of legislation, which complicates the industry's journey towards decarbonization,” he said.
Echoing these thoughts, Dr Gaby Bornheim said "we need to, as an industry, be fully aligned - and this includes fuel suppliers. New rules must be internationalized - we need a clear, global framework to proceed with achieving net zero by 2050. One that extends further than the EU."
Mr Emanuele Grimaldi called for a ‘fund & reward system’ to support early adopters of newer, more expensive fuels in shipping, while Mr Nikolaus H. Schües encouraged delegates to see shipping’s challenges from a more positive perspective – especially considering the plethora of new fuels in development, combined with the energy efficiency technologies currently available.
During the Q&A at the end of the session, an audience member asked about the possibilities of utilizing nuclear energy to power ships. “Very bluntly,” said Dr Gaby Bornheim, “there should be no prohibited thoughts. It’s one idea, but it may not be realistic that the industry will go in this direction.” She concluded that while shipping must consider the technology, realistically, she doesn’t think it will become a reality.
The third panel, ‘The Shipowners’ perspective on the future of EU shipping’, was moderated by Mr George Mouskas, Vice President of the Cyprus Union of Shipowners. The panel included Mr Andreas Hadjiyiannis, President of the Cyprus Union of Shipowners, Mr George Procopiou, Chairman of Dynacom Tankers Management Ltd, Mr Thanassis Martinos, Managing Director of Eastern Mediterranean Maritime Ltd and Ms Suzanna Laskaridis, Director of Laskaridis Shipping Company Ltd.
Discussion centered around the EU ETS and other regional regulations, and how these policies affect members of the European fleet. Ms Suzanna Laskaridis urged regulators to develop policies that, while driving the industry towards sustainability goals, do not drive vessels or shipping companies to move operations to more preferable locations. “There are benefits to a more self-sufficient fleet, and policy must be written with this in mind,” she said.
Mr George Procopiou criticized the EU ETS scheme, saying that “Europe is shooting itself in the foot”, claiming that the industry would be better off focusing on energy efficiency measures, rather than hindering growth through restrictive policies.
An audience member questioned the shipowner response to COVID-19 and the pandemic’s impact on the livelihoods of seafarers. Panellists acknowledged that, collectively, the industry’s response was not good enough, and that the level to which these keyworkers were let down has still not yet been recognized.
The first day of 2023’s Maritime Cyprus Conference was preceded by an Opening Reception held yesterday (Sunday 08 October 2023) at the Amathus Beach Hotel, Limassol where the ‘Cyprus Maritime Award 2023’ was presented in recognition of the contribution of individuals or companies to the development of Cyprus Shipping. Theis year it was a ‘Cyprus Maritime Personality Award’ awarded to Mr George Procopiou, Chairman of Dynacom Tankers Management Ltd, in recognition of his substantial contribution to the shipping industry, which spans over 50 years, having purchased his first ship in 1971.
Danica announces Philippines crew supply
Danica Crewing Specialists is delighted to announce it has added Filipino seafarers to its expanding global crew supply portfolio. The company now has an office location in Manila, Philippines giving access to a large number of well-qualified Filipino seafarers.
The Philippines is well-known as a key seafaring hub, offering a large pool of officers and ratings. Through the new office in Manila, joining its presence in Ukraine, Cyprus, Hamburg, Georgia, the EU, and India, Danica now offers one-stop-shop crew management and crew agency services in all key seafaring hubs in the world.
The office in Manila will work to the same high standards as all the other established Danica offices and enables Danica clients to benefit from having one dedicated point-of-contact linking them to the world’s largest crew pool both for ratings and officers.
Danica CEO Henrik Jensen commented: “Crew shortages are beginning to impact the international shipping industry and some sectors experience difficulties in recruiting top talent. Danica is well positioned to overcome this situation thanks to our widespread network of offices, all working to the same high standards, which enables us to always fill vacancies without compromising on competencies – and while still being cost-effective.”
The office in the Philippines is manned with very experienced local staff led by Dimitris Liolios who hails from Greece/Australia and has extensive experience in the Filipino crewing market.
To find out more about our Filipino crew provision please contact Henrik Jensen on tel: +49 173 62 11 998
Norton Rose Fulbright’s Christine Ezcutari awarded Commander of the Order for Maritime Merit
International law firm Norton Rose Fulbright’s Global Co-head of Transport and Head of the Paris Banking team, Christine Ezcutari, has been awarded the Commandeur de l’Ordre du Mérite Maritime (Commander of the Order for Maritime Merit).
The Order for Maritime Merit, established in 1930, is awarded to those who have distinguished themselves in the maritime field.
Christine, who is one of the youngest women to ever receive this prestigious award, was recognised for her career as a shipping and transport financing lawyer and in her capacity as President of the Conseil Supérieur de la Marine Marchande (CSMM) (French High Council of the Merchant Navy).
On September 27, 2023, Christine attended a medal ceremony at the office of the Minister of State for Marine Affairs, Hervé Berville, in Paris.
Christine said: “It is a huge honour and greatly humbling to be given this award, as the President of the Conseil Supérieur de la Marine Marchande. I look forward to continuing to serve the merchant navy and wider maritime and transport sector, which I am deeply passionate about, to the greatest of my ability, both in my capacity as a lawyer at Norton Rose Fulbright and in my role as President of the CSMM.
“I am very proud of the quality of the dialogue that we have at the CSMM and our contribution to the progress of economic and social policies, as well as to sustainability and the energy transition.”
This is the latest in a series of national recognitions for Christine, who was appointed by ministerial decree to the CSMM as a qualified member in August, 2016, then appointed President in May, 2022.
Christine was also named a Knight of l'ordre national du Mérite (National Order of Merit), in November 2015, by the French Ministry of Ecology, Sustainable Development and Energy. As a Commander of the CSMM, Christine now also serves on the Board of the High Council of the Merchant Navy.
Research report by Thetius and BV reveals pathways for digital collaboration in maritime
A new report commissioned by Bureau Veritas (BV), a world leader in testing, inspection and certification, calls for greater data sharing in the maritime sector, and outlines the benefits of a fresh approach to digital collaboration that will support shipping’s energy transition.
Written by maritime innovation consultancy Thetius, the report, titled Common Interest, benchmarks shipping’s progress on using digital solutions to collaborate on decarbonisation goals and shows how industry frontrunners are breaking down the technical, legal, financial and cultural barriers.
The research was conducted by Thetius, based on interviews with a series of maritime leaders and case studies from across the maritime sector’s digital landscape today.
“The challenge can be thought of as a network optimisation problem, with many stakeholders in the chain,” says Matthew Kenney, Principal Research Consultant at Thetius and lead author of the report. “As the report describes, caution is understandable when it comes to sharing data, particularly with competitors. Collaboration is an awkward concept in a competitive market, and the challenges include legal, financial and practical issues such as a lack of data standards, data silos and human error.”
The report also identifies key areas where digital collaboration has the potential to open new opportunities for growth and optimisation:
• Collaboration between different software providers and ship operators can provide more detailed ship performance analytics for fleet owners and managers.
• Digital synchronisation of the shipping ecosystem can help address “sail fast then wait”practices and reduce greenhouse gas emissions from voyages.
• Data sharing is critical to ensure seamless port visits and help deliver “just in time” arrivals, supporting decarbonisation and voyage efficiency.
• Large-scale data sharing can improve modelling of ship performance, with data pooled from multiple ships dramatically increasing the accuracy of modelling algorithms and digital twins.
The report also identifies four main categories of challenge as the primary obstacles that hinder more effective data sharing in the maritime sector: competition laws; data siloes; costs; and cultural and behavioural resistance. Through the lessons and insights shared in the report, it is hoped that maritime organisations can identify the most effective tools to overcome each of these obstacles. In turn, Bureau Veritas believes that this can lead to a fresh approach to digital collaboration.
“It should be viewed as an opportunity that shipping is simultaneously confronting the challenges of decarbonisation and digitalisation,” says Laurent Hentges, Vice-President, Digital Solutions & Transformation, Bureau Veritas Marine & Offshore. “This report shows that the time, technology, and trading environment are right to use digital collaboration to evolve and grow. Shipping can achieve its decarbonisation goals and deliver a greener maritime future by recognising the scale and depth of its common interests.”
The report also details a wide range of examples of how collaboration is already working in practice for many partners across the industry, such as the Blue Visby Solution, which aims to eliminate ‘sail fast then wait’.
“We can see the realisation of our vision for shipping’s digital transformation through these frontrunners and the numerous ambitious projects in which BV is actively involved,” says Hentges. “Collaboration is possible, practical, necessary, and mutually advantageous. It is a powerful opportunity, if we can identify and remove barriers that inhibit data sharing, and one that should inspire optimism for the decarbonisation journey ahead.”
The report Common Interest can be downloaded at:
https://marine-offshore.bureauveritas.com/insight/our-publications/common-interest-report
ORBCOMM dry container telematics solution now commercially available
ORBCOMM Inc., a leading global provider of supply chain IoT technology, announces that its new dry container telematics solution is commercially available through its global distribution network. ORBCOMM will be showcasing its maritime IoT offering at stand D32 during this week’s Intermodal Europe conference from October 10-12 at the RAI Amsterdam in Netherlands.
ORBCOMM’s solution provides end-to-end monitoring for dry marine containers moving through complex supply chains around the world to make operations more transparent, secure and profitable. The device reports data into ORBCOMM’s Maritime platform, which provides a single, integrated view of all assets—dry, reefer, genset and chassis—in one platform. It is also possible to seamlessly report data through APIs into customers’ proprietary platforms for optimal efficiency.
The company says its award-winning telematics solution delivers complete container visibility and cargo status monitoring with current and historical location reporting to facilitate better planning and optimize transit times, resulting in fuel savings and a reduced carbon footprint. These benefits can ultimately help customers meet their sustainability goals and contribute to greener container shipping across the industry.
ORBCOMM’s solar-powered dry container tracking device is designed for large-scale deployments. It can be installed in as little as one minute with minimum asset downtime and no need for manual intervention after installation. The solution is built to meet the industry’s need for affordability, longevity, reliability and durability. For maximum security, optional door sensors can detect when container doors are opened and send automated alerts to operators, allowing them to identify potential unauthorized access, tampering and/or theft.
The device is certified to the ATEX Zone 2 explosion-proof standard. Additional wireless BLE sensors will also be supported to integrate other safety and productivity applications that will enhance the solution’s capabilities.
An additional benefit to customers is the rebranded ORBCOMM Maritime platform, previously known as ORBCOMM ReeferConnect, which will be relaunched later this year with a more dynamic and modern user interface, providing a more intuitive customer experience that facilitates faster and easier access to key data insights.
The ORBCOMM Maritime platform will also support its new genset monitoring solution, which will be commercially available later this year. Combining real-time asset visibility and fuel status reporting, customers will be able to improve genset utilization, optimize fuel usage, accurately plan refuelling and avoid emergency genset stops by reducing manual fuel checks, detecting fuel level changes and being alerted to significant fuel level drops.
“We’re excited to bring our new dry container telematics solution to market, enabling the industry’s largest shipping lines to cost-effectively deploy smart devices across their fleet and seamlessly manage their maritime operations at any point in the supply chain,” said Gregg Plonisch, ORBCOMM’s Senior Vice President of Product Management. “With ORBCOMM’s enhanced Maritime platform, customers can view all of their assets in a single platform, enabling better decision making, business planning and service levels, while contributing to end-to-end digitalization of complex supply chains.”
For more information and to see a demo of ORBCOMM’s new dry container telematics solution, stop by stand D32 at Intermodal Europe at the RAI Amsterdam.
Med Marine successfully delivers MED-A2360 RAmparts 2300 series tugboat to Arrendadora Continental
Turkish shipbuilder Med Marine, a leading provider of high-quality tugboats and workboats, is proud to announce the successful delivery of the Med-A2360 class Robert Allan RAstar 2360 design tugboat to Arrendadora Continental, S.A. of Panama.
Arrendadora Continental, S.A. chose Med Marine's Med-A2360 unit for its outstanding operational versatility, making it an ideal choice for terminal escort and harbour towage operations, equipped with state-of-the-art fire-fighting systems to ensure safety in all circumstances.
The vessel, named ‘Motagua’ arrived its home port of Puerto Santo Tomas de Castilla in Guatemala successfully.
Med Marine's Sales Director, Melis Üçüncü, expressed enthusiasm about the partnership, saying: "We are extremely excited about the opportunity to construct this compact vessel for Arrendadora Continental, S.A. and delighted to have them as our business partner. This delivery underscores our commitment to delivering reliable and innovative maritime solutions to our clients."
IBIA seeks industry participation for pivotal digitalisation survey
The International Bunker Industry Association (IBIA) is inviting industry stakeholders to contribute to its latest initiative – a comprehensive digitalisation survey. Spearheaded by the IBIA Digitalisation Working Group, this endeavour is in anticipation of the forthcoming IBIA Annual Convention.
With the goal of providing a holistic overview of the bunker value chain, the survey emphasises the current landscape of digital solutions in the industry, potential areas for digital advancement. And challenges that may inhibit such digital transformations.
IBIA believes that industry-wide participation will not only foster invaluable insights but will also help assess the depth and breadth of digitalisation strategies in place and identify the current digital tools utilised by industry members, as well as pinpoint sectors of the value chain that demand priority in digitalisation.
The data garnered from this survey is instrumental in enhancing the Digitalisation Session at the convention. By ensuring it encapsulates real-world insights, challenges, and opportunities, IBIA aims to provide actionable strategies for the industry's future progression.
“We are at a pivotal moment in the maritime sector's digital evolution," says Kenneth Juhls, IBIA Digitalisation Working Group Chair. "To ensure our strategies are both relevant and effective, we need the collective intelligence of our industry. This survey is an opportunity for every stakeholder to voice their experiences and insights."
To participate in the survey please visit the IBIA website https://ibia.net/
LR approves ERMA FIRST’s Carbon Capture & Storage System
Lloyd’s Register (LR) has awarded Approval in Principle (AiP) to ERMA FIRST for its amine absorption-based Carbon Capture & Storage (CCS) system.
ERMA FIRST’s CCS system uses absorption technology to mix CO2 (carbon dioxide) flue gases with a proprietary amine solvent, which is then heated to produce a chemical reaction which reverses the absorption and separates the CO2 from the solvent. The CO2 from this process is then liquified and stored under cryogenic conditions onboard with the solvent ready to use in the same process again, creating a regenerative loop for CCS.
With the ability to capture a significant amount of CO2 from exhaust emissions, ship owners and operators will be able to meet and exceed the IMO’s strengthened emission reduction targets, whilst increasing their vessels’ lifecycle.
LR's AiP, as part of the Risk-Based Certification process, has enabled the technology to achieve this important milestone and allows ERMA FIRST to proceed with onboard pilot testing of the application, whilst LR continues to support its industry partners in de-risking their maritime assets.
The AiP builds upon the commercial success of ERMA FIRST’s ballast water treatment system, the ERMA FIRST FIT BWTS, which received type approval from LR back in November 2018.
Nick Brown (pictured, centre right), CEO, Lloyd’s Register, said: “LR is pleased to have awarded ERMA FIRST with Approval in Principle for its post combustion Carbon Capture & Storage system. CCS technology presents a real and credible route for the maritime industry to reduce its greenhouse gas emissions in the short to medium term and this AiP is evidence of LR’s tangible actions to support the global energy transition.
“Acting as trusted advisers and using our technical expertise throughout the certification process, LR continues to proactively identify a broad range of technologies that can de-risk operations for maritime stakeholders.”
Konstantinos Stampedakis (pictured, far right), Co-Founder & Managing Director, ERMA FIRST, said: “We are delighted to have received Approval in Principle from Lloyd’s Register for the ERMA FIRST CCS system. ERMA FIRST is committed to developing solutions that support the maritime industry’s green transition and achievement of the IMO’s decarbonisation ambitions. This AiP represents a significant milestone for our CCS project, and we look forward to continuing to work with Lloyd’s Register as we move into the next phase of this important project.”
MCTC acts to guard against rice shortages for seafarers
MCTC, the industry leading full catering management provider, is closely monitoring global rice markets, as concerns rise over India’s decision to impose restrictions on non-basmati rice exports.
There are growing fears that seafarers could be one of the groups to be impacted if the restrictions hamper the supply of rice into the marketplace.
India’s move to restrict non-basmati rice exports has raised questions about the stability of the rice supply chain, which plays a vital role in providing sustenance to seafarers on vessels worldwide. These restrictions have the potential to create a significant supply gap, leading to fluctuations in rice prices and affecting availability in major rice-importing countries.
Kyriacos Georgiou, MCTC Director of Global Operations, said: “MCTC understands the importance of consistent, high-quality provisions for seafarers. To address potential disruptions to the rice supply chain, we have taken several proactive steps to monitor the global rice market through a variety of data sources and market analyses.
“Our extensive worldwide network of suppliers enables us to secure a reliable supply of non-basmati rice from alternative sources. This will ensure we can deliver competitive pricing and exceptional quality, guaranteeing that seafarers continue to receive the nourishment they need while at sea,” he said.
Christian Ioannou, MCTC Group CEO, added: “Despite a challenging market, MCTC remains dedicated to ensuring that seafarers can rely on us for their essential provisions.”
Constructive discussions continue on Day Two of Maritime Cyprus
The second day of the Maritime Cyprus 2023 conference took place at the Parklane Resort & Spa in Limassol on Tuesday. Themed ‘Shipping in Action: An Agenda for Change’, conference discussions centred on addressing the sustainability of shipping and future of EU shipping.
The first panel, titled ‘Challenge Accepted: Energy Transition – Where do we Stand?’, was moderated by Ms Manuela Tomassini, Head of Sustainability and Technical Assistance, EMSA, and featured Ms Semiramis Paliou, CEO, Diana Shipping Inc; Mr Jan Dieleman, President, Cargill Ocean Transportation/Cargill International SA; Mr Sebastien Landerretche, Head, Freight Platform, Louis Dreyfus Company; and Mr Roel Hoenders, Head of Climate Action and Clean Air, IMO.
“We must be open minded when discussing the energy transition,” said Ms Manuela Tomassini, opening the discussion. “Energy efficiency is a priority, as are alternative fuels. Most important, though, is filling the knowledge gap, and focusing on supporting investment in the industry to drive us towards our energy transition goals. Adaptability, flexibility, taking full advantage of opportunities, positivity, cooperation, and collaboration will all be crucial to success," she said, before posing questions to the panel.
Mr Roel Hoenders, speaking from the perspective of the IMO, said the organization echoed challenges mentioned yesterday, during the first day of the Conference. He highlighted that focus needs to be put on fuel availability and pricing, as well as the important element of creating energy transition opportunities across the maritime industry. He also acknowledged how the concept of net zero needs to be further defined, and that this will be on the IMO’s agenda moving forward.
Ms Semiramis Paliou emphasized the role of seafarers in the energy transition, stressing the importance of increasing the attractiveness of the industry to ensure the resilience and diversity of the next generation of the workforce. She also noted how shipowners need to be incentivized through the energy transition process – “We're taking risks to move the industry forward. While moving in the right direction, currently available technology is not necessarily optimal.”
Commenting on progress made so far, Mr Jan Dieleman said that outcomes of MEPC 80 were positive, but that it was now time to convert discussion into action. “It’s time to raise the bar and move away from our reliance on first movers in the industry. Zero carbon fuels offer huge opportunities in the wider supply chain – let’s take advantage of that,” he said.
Mr Sebastien Landerretche noted how shipowners’ relationship with the supply chain must be converted from transactional in nature, to strategic. “We need to develop our understanding of technology and increase collaboration with best-in-class owners to boost progress across the board. Bringing energy players into the value chain will also be crucial,” he concluded.
Following the panel discussion, Ms. Anne Katrine Bjerregaard, Head of Strategy, Sustainability and ESG, Mærsk Mckinney Møller Center for Zero Carbon Shipping took stage with a keynote presentation titled, ‘The time to act is now – radically transforming an industry by 2050.’ Ms. Bjerregaard outlined the worrying progression of climate change, and how we’ve been “living well beyond the nine planetary boundaries” for a while now.
“The decisions made at MEPC 80 indicate that we are moving in the right direction. As we press ahead, we must do everything possible to install the maximum amount of energy efficiency technologies throughout the global fleet, if we are to meet minimum climate goals. This requires, too, the installation of carbon capture systems on at least 30% of the fleet,” she remarked.
The second panel discussion, ‘The Role of Shipbuilding in an Evolving Shipping Industry’, was moderated by Mr Nick Brown, IACS Chairman and CEO, Lloyd's Register, and included Mr Konstantinos Stampedakis, Co-Founder & MD, ERMA FIRST; Mr Polys V. Hajioannou, CEO & Chairman, Safe Bulkers, Inc; Mr Chris-Alexander Korfiatis, Vice President, Marine Operations, Royal Caribbean; Mr Mark O'Neil, President, InterManager; Mr Kenneth Tveter, Head of Green Transition, Clarksons; and Mr Stephanos E. Angelakos, CEO, Angelakos (Hellas) S.A.
Discussion focused on how shipbuilding is transforming to align with new expectations from customers, which are resulting from existing and incoming regulations. This, complicated by issues relating to undefined climate goals, lack of alternative fuel availability, and the need for additional investment in new technologies.
Mark O'Neil pointed to the global social, governmental, and political factors currently influencing the decarbonisation of all industries, and urged a more realistic and pragmatic approach to the decarbonisation challenges faced by shipping. “Shipyards facing a level of uncertainty when it comes to the rationale behind building the carbon neutral vessels of the future,” he said, suggesting that focus and funding is shifted more towards company shareholders and voters – who he believes will be the true drivers of global change.
Highlighting the increased visibility of the cruise sector compared to other areas of shipping, Mr Chris-Alexander Korfiatis said decisions around newbuilds were dependent on the needs of customers. “With each order, we build ships that are 20-25% more efficient than those delivered previously, using whatever technology is available at the time.” He explained that the strategy places strong emphasis retrofitting, ensuring vessels can be adapted to align with fuels and technologies of the future, which today are still under consideration.
Mr Konstantinos Stampedakis thanked the Cyprus Shipping Deputy Ministry for organizing the Conference – “Anyone can organize an event, but creating an atmosphere that fosters open and productive discussion is something that the industry has been missing.” He went on to champion carbon capture and retrofitting as a necessity, suggesting that “updating the existing fleet might be a better green solution in the short term. To support shipping, we must encourage the retrofitting of existing technologies – and continue its development."
Mr Polys Hadjioannou offered encouragement, sharing his optimism around Fuel EU Maritime, which he believes will drive momentum in the transformation of shipbuilding.
Commenting as a member of the cruise sector, Mr Chris-Alexander Korfiatis emphasized the importance of maintaining seafarer and cruise passenger safety as shipbuilding develops to align with incoming technologies, regulations & climate goals.
Adding to conversation around seafarers, Mark O'Neil warned that the crewing market will be further segmented as the industry trains different groups to handle and operate various vessel types using different alternative fuels. “We'll need to pay higher salaries to keep these trained personnel on the same vessel types, to decrease ongoing recruitment costs,” he said.
Taking place during the afternoon on the second day of the Conference, the Young Executives Session, offered an interactive, capacity-building and problem-solving session for shipping executives under the age of 40. This session was organized in collaboration with Young Ship Cyprus and WISTA Cyprus for young shipping professionals.
Maritime services specialist Cargo Care Solutions expands Houston office in strong tanker market
Leading maritime cargo equipment specialist Cargo Care Solutions has expanded its Houston operations to better meet demand for its cargo pump and hydraulics services. According to Peter Peltenburg (pictured), CEO of the Dutch-based company, the expanded Houston office is a valuable hub for serving the thriving tanker market.
“Having cargo pump engineers based in Houston plus a full stock of parts to support cargo pump and hydraulics work helps us ensure our customers are operating their equipment in a safe, reliable, and cost-effective way,” said Mr Peltenburg. “This new location and bigger office enable us to continue to grow.”
The expanded Houston office is a base for sales and service operations focused on the oil tankers, supply vessels, and offshore rigs operating in the Gulf of Mexico and the Americas. Cargo Care Solutions has built a reputation for providing a complete program for the maintenance of cargo pump systems, covering spares, service, and support.
“With our deep knowledge and extensive service offerings, we emphasize the importance of preventive measures that keep our clients operating smoothly,” said Mr. Peltenberg. “That’s where we can really make a difference.”
In addition to accommodating a full stock of cargo pump parts, the expanded Houston office supports other services performed by Cargo Care Solutions, including hydraulic repairs for offshore installations, inspection and repair work on container hatch covers and other cargo access equipment.
Cargo Care Solutions, headquartered in Rotterdam, serves more than 1,500 global customers. Its team of more than 50 employees is growing as this independent, all-round supplier for cargo access equipment continues to be in demand.
Britannia Group publishes sustainability update
The Britannia Group’s latest report demonstrates how sustainability and ESG are becoming central to its culture and risk management processes.
Throughout 2022, the Britannia Group has continued to embed sustainability across the organisation and its business processes. This is being achieved through the development and monitoring of KPIs and the implementation of ethical policies to support and promote a corporate sustainability culture, while raising awareness among employees to ensure all are familiar with the importance of sustainability. This included rolling out an online sustainability training programme to all our employees worldwide.
Since publishing its first sustainability report in 2021, the Britannia Group has continued to broaden the scope of its sustainability reporting to reflect new initiatives. This year’s report has, where possible, adopted some of the principles of the draft European Reporting Sustainability Reporting Standards, which means disclosing both how ESG risks may financially impact our business as well as its environmental and social impact on wider society and how these are managed.
As part of its business model, the Britannia Group holds a comprehensive investment portfolio and in 2022 principles were agreed on an investment strategy, which includes reports on the ESG alignment of the Britannia Group’s investment managers. All fund managers are now required to include their ESG credentials and performance in their annual presentations.
The Britannia Group and its Managers continue to support a wide range of volunteering and charity fundraising activities undertaken by its employees across its office locations. It also supports local and maritime charities, particularly those concerned with seafarer welfare, through regular donations. In July 2023 the Britannia Group made separate one-off donations of USD75,000 to four maritime charitable organisations based in Bermuda. All the charities support aspiring or more experienced sailors as well as local maritime communities more generally in Bermuda.
Commenting on the report Andrew Cutler, CEO of Britannia P&I, said, “In an ever more complex and fast-changing world for our membership to navigate, the Britannia Group will continue to meet and respond to the expectations of our Members, other stakeholders and indeed to the whole shipping industry, to address ESG challenges and work towards creating a more sustainable future.”
The Britannia Sustainability Report 2023 is available on the Britannia website here.
KONGSBERG to provide science equipment for Germany’s new ocean research vessel
KONGSBERG is to provide scientific sensors and scientific handling equipment for Germany’s new ocean research vessel Meteor IV, which will be able to house 35 scientists plus 36 crew.
The 10,000GT, 135-metre vessel is being built by MeyerFassmer Spezialschiffbau (MFSB) for the German Federal Ministry of Education and Research. Due for delivery in 2026, it will replace existing research vessels Meteor and Poseidon.
“We need to build a better understanding of our changing climate and the effect it has on the marine environment to protect our oceans and future generations, Ocean research is now recognised as critical to our understanding of climate change, as well as a host of conservation issues,” said Executive Vice President Stene Førsund, Sales and Marketing, Kongsberg Discovery. “A top priority of marine scientists is to map the entire seafloor by 2030, an enormous task that will require instruments and equipment with extremely precise calibration.”
Kongsberg Discovery will supply Meteor IV with the EM 124 and EM 712 multibeam echo sounders, used for seabed mapping at various depths. Kongsberg Discovery will also provide the Seapath 380 with Motion Gyro Compass (MGC) R3, whose sensors use GNSS signals and inertial measurements. These combine with the EM series of echo sounders to create an exact picture of the seabed.
To monitor ecosystems and marine life, Meteor IV will use Kongsberg Discovery’s EK80, a high-precision scientific echo sounder with acoustic doppler current profiler capability, which may be used to measure the velocity of fish in a water column. The EK80 measures speed and direction of currents in a water column, which helps researchers understand how organisms, nutrients, and other biological and chemical constituents are transported through the ocean.
Kongsberg Maritime will supply a complete integrated scientific handling system for Meteor IV, enabling safe and efficient operations with cables and ropes up to 12,000 metres in length.
The scientific winch system comprises two direct pull winches, two conventional twin drum traction winch systems and a third traction winch system, which includes Kongsberg Maritime’s field-proven cable traction control unit (CTCU) for superior performance with synthetic fibre rope.
The delivery also includes overboard handling units; a stern A-frame, two handling beams, and a corer handling system, as well as cranes.
The control system, fully developed and maintained in-house by Kongsberg Maritime, features the proprietary predictive active heave compensation (AHC) algorithm providing accurate winch system response matched to vessel motion, by aid of Kongsberg Discovery’s motion reference unit (MRU).
Meteor IV is designed for worldwide multifunctional and interdisciplinary research, with a focus on the Atlantic Ocean. The new vessel will make important contributions to national and international marine science, particularly in the areas of climate and environmental research.
Lack of yard capacity and capability could compromise maritime industry’s retrofit ambitions: LR
A Lloyd’s Register (LR) report on the state of technology, integration and compliance, alongside the business case for retrofitting vessels, has found that repair yard capability and capacity concerns could thwart the uptake of alternative fuel technology onboard existing ships.
The Engine Retrofit Report, has identified that retrofitting a significant number of the 9,000 and 12,900 large merchant vessels estimated to be part of the global fleet in 2030, could rapidly accelerate the maritime energy transition. However, it warns that these ambitions could be jeopardised by the limited number of repair yards currently capable of performing such conversions.
Key factors influencing the size of the market and the timing of retrofits, include the date by which shipping begins building only zero-emission vessels, as well as the age at which owners or operators decide to retrofit their vessels and the suitable engine types and bore sizes.
The study, which analyses the state of engine retrofit demand, capacity, and uptake, also points to the new skills in naval architecture, electrical engineering, and fuel handling which will be required if the industry is to use retrofitting as an effective tool to accelerate decarbonisation.
One of the key challenges with retrofits identified in the report is system integration, with significant issues such as accommodation for larger fuel tanks, space for fuel preparation equipment and ensuring safety measures are in place, all providing obstacles to rapidly retrofitting the existing fossil fuel fleet.
Techno-economic modelling data revealed in the study shows that the use of renewable methanol or ammonia would significantly increase fuel costs, in some cases more than doubling for vessels in all segments, however, a low-cost scenario, where alternative fuels decrease in price and carbon pricing rises, could tip the balance in favour of alternative fuels.
The study also highlights the importance of human factor considerations, underlining how the critical aspect of impact on crew members can often be overlooked during retrofitting. Assessing ergonomics, roles and responsibilities, competency and training, procedures processes, and occupational health will play a crucial role in ensuring retrofitting is safe and effective for ship operators.
The report, which includes updates on the latest technology from Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs) including Wärtsilä, MAN Energy Solutions and WinGD, can be downloaded from the LR website.
Claudene Sharpe-Patel, Technology Director, Lloyd's Register, said: “Decarbonising the existing fleet is crucial for reducing the maritime industry’s greenhouse gas emissions. Without significant progress in this area, there could be as many as 20,000 commercial vessels relying on fossil fuels by 2050.
“We must, therefore, focus industry efforts on addressing the issues that LR’s Engine Retrofit Report raises such as yard capacity, conversion capability and system integration, helping stakeholders from the maritime value chain navigate the obstacles to installing future fuels technology on the existing global fleet.”
Download the report here.
Elomatic chosen to improve energy efficiency of ferry operated by DFDS
The Denmark-based transport and logistics company Det Forenede Dampskibs-Selskab (DFDS A/S) has selected Elomatic to develop and deliver its Elogrid solution on the MS Crown Seaways cruise ferry, to improve energy efficiency and reduce its carbon emissions. MS Crown Seaways ferry is a Ro-Ro passenger vessel which currently operates on the Denmark-Norway ferry route Copenhagen-Oslo.
DFDS A/S will manage the installation of Elogrids during the annual drydocking at Fayard, which takes place in January 2024. Additionally, a specialist from Elomatic will supervise the operation on-site to ensure top-quality work and the smooth assembly of the complex structure.
The Elogrid tunnel thruster, which can be retrofitted onto a wide variety of vessels, reduces the additional resistance and, as a result, fuel consumption of ships. The solution will also help DFDS A/S enhance the performance of its tunnel thrusters, resulting in better manoeuvrability. Additionally, it will reduce noise and vibrations throughout the entire vessel, meaning a better overall experience for passengers, a smoother journey, and an increased lifespan for onboard equipment.
Elogrid emphasizes how design expertise and resources are essential to tackling the decarbonization challenge. In general, the solution makes an immediate impact on the Carbon Intensity Indicator (CII) of vessels with fuel savings up to 4%, depending on the vessel design and speed. This also means a reduction in carbon dioxide emissions. Equipping tunnel thrusters with Elogrids typically repays itself within 6–18 months. Elogrid showcases Elomatic's profound expertise in flow modeling, serving as a prime illustration of our multi-disciplinary competencies across various sectors.
The partnership represents a major milestone in Elomatic’s strategic development. The Finnish engineering company is expanding its business by designing solutions that increase environmental and human wellbeing, whilst also improving the competitiveness of its customers.
“Our Elogrid solution significantly reduces water resistance and fuel consumption from ships, and demonstrates how even a small piece of equipment, developed using advanced modelling, can deliver a valuable impact on GHG emissions. It is an honor to have been chosen by DFDS S/A to support them on their energy efficiency and decarbonization initiatives, and we are confident that our partnership will continue to flourish in the near future", commented Guido Schulte, Sales Director for Elomatic’s Marine & Offshore Energy.
“We are committed to reducing our impact on the climate. In the short term, improving our existing fleet and making it pollute less and be more efficient is a focus area - even at smaller scales. To this end the Elogrid solution supports the efficiency of Crown Seaways and will reduce fuel consumption with around 1 % and hence support our green transition journey”, says Moshe Poulsen, Superintendent and responsible for the vessel and the docking.
The Elomatic scope involves the design, manufacturing, and installation supervision of four grids for two tunnels on the MS Crown Seaways Ferry. This includes project management, concept design, performance analysis, basic design for authority approvals, when necessary, detailed design for manufacturing and assembling the Elogrids, procurement, overseeing the manufacturing process, coordinating the delivery of the Elogrids, and finally, providing on-site installation supervision.
ICS continues to grow as it welcomes New Zealand Shipping Federation to full membership
The New Zealand Shipping Federation (NZSF), key representative body for New Zealand’s coastal operators, has become a full member of the International Chamber of Shipping (ICS).
Launched in 1906, the NZSF works with decision-makers to achieve policies that benefit all New Zealanders, including safe, secure and clean shipping.
The ICS already enjoys a strong and collaborative relationship with the NZSF, through the Federation’s affiliate membership to ICS. Since 2021, this affiliate membership has allowed the NZSF to participate at ICS sub-committees and panels and observe at the ICS Board.
The move from affiliate to full membership will enhance collaboration between the ICS and NZSF who can now participate at all committees and be able to participate at the ICS Board. This will increase the geographical spread of the ICS Board members which will help to ensure a balanced view of the international shipping landscape, so that the ICS can shape the future of shipping as the industry works together to find solutions to collective issues including piracy, seafarer welfare and training, digitisation, and decarbonisation.
Guy Platten, Secretary General, International Chamber of Shipping said: “The ICS already enjoys a close relationship with the New Zealand Shipping Federation through its affiliate membership so I am delighted that we will be working even more closely through this move to full membership.
“We are creating a truly global community that helps us to further understand the challenges facing the shipping industry, from decarbonisation to digitalisation, seafarer welfare and recruitment and more, so that we can work together to find solutions for all.”
John Harbord (pictured), Executive Director, New Zealand Shipping Federation said: “The International Chamber of Shipping is at the forefront of advocacy on issues impacting our industry. It's important that we are at the table, working on solutions before they hit us in distant New Zealand, and we are delighted to once again be part of the ICS team. “
ICS membership now comprises national shipowners’ associations from more than 40 countries and territories.
Industry professionals encouraged to share views on future of sustainable fuel in transportation
Transportation industry professionals are invited to contribute their valuable insights on the future of sustainable fuel sources, in a survey spearheaded by Reed Smith, a global law firm that has advised the sector for nearly a century.
The initiative seeks to gather perspectives and predictions from professionals across the entire transportation sector. This includes, but is not limited to, those working in aviation, shipping, logistics, manufacturing, utilities, and environmental services.
Richard Hakes, chair of Reed Smith’s Transportation Industry Group, commented, “The industry has experienced significant changes over the past decade, driven by technological advances, regulatory developments, and environmental targets. Events such as the global pandemic and geopolitical factors have further emphasized the need for foresight and adaptability.”
Highlighting the widely discussed uncertainty surrounding the fuels of the future, Hakes added: “Determining the optimal solution in terms of cost, safety, storage, and scalability remains a challenge. Against the backdrop of ambitious targets – such as the European Green Deal which aims to slash transport emissions by 90% by 2050 – the industry is now grappling with decisions that will shape its trajectory.”
Preliminary feedback from the respondents suggests that close to half the industry is poised to embrace dual fuel as a transitional solution within the next five years. Responding to the numbers, Thor Maalouf, partner at Reed Smith, said: “It's a dynamic landscape. As we collect more data, I'm curious to witness the potential shift in this percentage.”
Maalouf added: “Fostering a sustainable industry demands a collective commitment to knowledge exchange. A joined-up and collaborative approach is the most effective path towards sustainable fuels, and by pooling our expertise we can help steer the industry towards a more sustainable and innovative future.”
The survey seeks input on renewable energy sources, including the perceptions of sustainable options, potential challenges, barriers, and anticipated timelines for a complete transition to sustainable fuel. The survey takes less than five minutes to complete and is completely anonymous.
Nick Austin, partner at Reed Smith, stressed the importance of a diverse range of perspectives. He said: “We aim to capture insights from the full spectrum of the transportation sector. By collecting data from our clients and beyond, we hope to present results that offer clarity on industry views, predictions, and challenges.”
The survey can be found at: https://surveys.reedsmith.com/s/SustainableEnergyTransportation2023/:
AkzoNobel and Silverstream Technologies release white paper to help ship owners cut fuel consumption and carbon emissions
Ship operators can reduce their fuel use and emissions output by using Silverstream Technologies' air lubrication system (ALS) with AkzoNobel’s fouling control coatings, a new white paper has revealed.
Marine industry experts from both businesses have collaborated to show that a combination of air lubrication and the right fouling control coatings can reduce hull resistance and increase efficiency to give vessel owners a ‘clear competitive edge’.
AkzoNobel and Silverstream Technologies have partnered to publish the white paper ‘Exploring Synergy between Energy Saving Solutions for the Maritime Industry’ and hosted a webinar on October 11 exploring the benefits of the solutions whilst operating in tandem.
Silverstream’s proven ALS, the Silverstream® System (pictured), generates a microbubble carpet beneath a ship’s hull to reduce the vessel’s frictional resistance, while AkzoNobel provides protective coatings and effective fouling control to minimise a ship’s frictional resistance through maintenance of a smooth and clean hull surface. Both solutions are aimed at reducing the ship hull’s frictional resistance to achieve energy savings.
AkzoNobel’s Intertrac Vision, which has a proven track record of savings, can be used to provide future performance prediction for a range of deep-sea trading vessels, The industry-first tool helps ship owners save a forecasted 9% on power, 5,000 tonnes of fuel and more than 15,000 tonnes of green gas emissions over five years with an ultra-performance fouling control coating compared to a lower-performing industry standard product for a typical 171k cubic meter LNG vessel.
Meanwhile, Silverstream’s ALS offers savings of between five and 11% depending on the type of ship.
Barry Kidd, AkzoNobel Vessel Performance Manager and white paper co-author, said: “Collaboration is key to maritime decarbonization and we have embarked upon an exciting project with our partner, Silverstream Technologies to further support the shipping industry in its pursuit of sustainability.
“The synergy between our technologies can provide ship operators with a clear competitive edge whilst helping them to comply with ever-tightening IMO regulations.
“By adopting a holistic approach in maintaining a smooth and clean hull to reduce vessel resistance, we are convinced that the careful selection of fouling control coatings, in combination with a proven air lubrication system, will benefit ship operators significantly enabling them to lower their fuel bills and reduce their carbon emissions in the near term.”
Arno Dubois, Silverstream Technologies’ Lead Hydrodynamicist and white paper co-author, said: “We are continually on the lookout for opportunities to enhance the fuel and emissions savings potential of our technology, and collaborative projects such as this one with AkzoNobel offer a fantastic chance to explore the symbiotic relationship between our ALS and other highly effective energy efficiency technologies.
“Ship operators simply have to consume less fuel, regardless of which fuel they are consuming, if we are to see a sustainable future for shipping.
“By taking a holistic approach to fuel saving, deploying a variety of proven solutions together, operators can achieve even greater savings for their vessels – this is what our new white paper brings into focus and is what we believe its readers will find compelling.”
Day Three of Maritime Cyprus sees debate over safety, ship finance, technology and cruising
Wednesday saw the third and final day of the ‘Maritime Cyprus 2023’ Conference taking place at the Parklane Resort & Spa in Limassol. Panel discussions and a presentation explored how future trends and emerging markets are impacting shipping, the complexities of ship finance within the context of shipping’s current challenges, maritime technology and how it can improve safety at sea, and the shifting dynamics of cruising.
The opening presentation ‘Exploring Future Trends and emerging markets for a dynamic and resilient shipping industry’ was made by Mr Ben Nolan, Managing Director, Maritime, Rail, & Energy Infrastructure at Stifel. Discussing major factors currently impacting shipping, he explored populism, reshoring, the energy transition/decarbonisation, evolving demographics and population centers, and higher interest rates/inflation.
He explained that the world was entering another era of cyclical populism – noting how countries are becoming more insular, thus affecting ocean transportation. “Reshoring is becoming a major trend - for example, technology companies are moving manufacturing processes back to North America,” he said.
On the energy transition, he observed how capital spending driving decarbonisation was at an all-time high, with investment in clean electrification having increased substantially. But he urged realism: “We have a long way to go, and the idea that all of this can happen quickly is farcical.”
The first panel discussion, titled ‘Navigating the Seas of Capital: Exploring Ship Finance’, was moderated by Mr Ben Nolan and featured Mr Christos Tsakonas, Global Head of Shipping, DNB Bank ASA; Mr Mark Friedman Senior Managing Director, Evercore; Mr Erik Helberg, CEO, Clarksons Securities; Ms Nicole Mylona, CEO, Transmed Shipping Co. Ltd; Mr Harry N. Vafias, CΕΟ & Founder, StealthGas Inc.; and Mr Atef Abou Merhi, Managing Director, Pelagic Partners. Discussion centred around the challenges faced by shipping when it comes to financing growth within the context of an uncertain future fuels landscape, geopolitical factors, and the pace of technological development.
“Investing across the cycles is challenging as it’s volatile,” said Mr Erik Helberg. “But we’re optimistic due to the supply side. At the right time, there are phenomenal returns to be made.” Supporting this, Ms Nicole Mylona said: “There is capital available for projects with good companies have proven track records with healthy balance sheets, and good, solid cash flow.”
Conversation turned to the administrative burden that smaller shipping companies are facing to comply with the multitude of incoming regulations, noting that while the operating environment makes it hard for new players to enter the market, it is also increasingly difficult for smaller companies to survive. “It is likely we will see further consolidation,” Mr Erik Helberg continued, “If you can find a differentiator then there is still room for smaller companies, but it is more challenging than it used to be.”
Mr Atef Abou Merhi noted how small companies are the cornerstone and backbone of shipping and will stay. “But there is more focus now on pools, for example, where we see consolidation on the commercial side. And smaller companies increasingly need support from ship managers,” he concluded.
Mr Harry N. Vafias believes that owners with two to five vessels, often in dry bulk, will continue to win against the bigger players as the balance sheet is the most important element, with low leverage and a focus on OPEX.
As conversation turned to competitiveness in shipping, Ms Nicole Mylona said: “We need competition - it’s what keeps us on our toes. If there are only a few large organizations controlling trade, this will impact safety, costs, everything.”
The second panel discussion, titled ‘The future seas: advancing maritime technology for enhanced safety’, was moderated by Ms Despina Panayiotou Theodosiou, Joint CEO, Tototheo Maritime, and featured Mr Peter Broadhurst, Senior Vice President Safety and Regulatory, Inmarsat Maritime; Capt. Piotr Rusinek, Master Mariner, DPA and Fleet Marine Superintendent, Intership Navigation; and Mr Erwin Derlagen, COO at ENESEL Limited.
Conversation focused on how digitalisation is ushering in the adoption of highly sophisticated technological advancements, designed to assist seafarers in their duties, and how – because of these technologies – potential impacts on jobs within the industry have become apparent. The panel engaged in a debate about the direction of change, reflecting on the path shipping has taken as an industry, the invaluable lessons learned, and the crucial questions and opportunities that lie ahead.
“The reality is, we do live in a connected world. The upcoming seafarers are used to that level of connectivity, and so we must embrace it – and use it to improve the safety of shipping,” said Mr Peter Broadhurst.
Mr Erwin Derlagen highlighted the importance of training, citing the value of well-produced video content that can be delivered to and consumed by seafarers on vessels. “We really must change the culture around how we train our crews on board. We must distance ourselves from the old-fashioned style of training, where we simply tell people what to do and how to look at things. Instead, we need to listen to crew when they tell us where their shortcomings are and adjust our training strategy accordingly.”
Ms Despina Panayiotou Theodosiou noted how the term ‘disruption’ has been replaced by ‘transition’ since the advent of the pandemic, marking a shift in focus to an internal drive for change, rather than external disruptive forces.
The value of data was stressed by Mr Peter Broadhurst: “I don’t think we should restrict ourselves – there is more that can be done with this technology, even if that means the technology is monetized by other companies.”
Mr Erwin Derlagen stressed that there were two important elements coming into shore-based decision making – “technology and the data made available by it, and crew, who remain the eyes and ears onboard vessels, offering uniquely human perspectives of onboard challenges.”
The third and final panel discussion of the day titled, ‘Cruising Ahead: Exploring Current Developments and Dynamics in the industry’, was moderated by Mr Joost van Ree, Group Director Cruise & Yachts, Ocean Technologies Group, and featured Mr Bert Hernandez, Senior Vice President – International, Royal Caribbean International; Ms Maria Deligianni, National Director, Eastern Mediterranean, Cruise Lines International Association; Mr Vincenzo Galati, Director, Corporate Marine Technology, Carnival Corporation & PLC; and Mr Norbert Stiekema, CCO, Explora Journeys.
The panel discussed the complexities of the cruise sector, and how dynamics are changing as the shipping sector transitions towards sustainability. “We are very visible,” said Mr Joost van Ree. “Because of this, the cruise industry is always an early adopter of new technology.” Expanding on the cruise industry's visibility in European cities, the example was made of Amsterdam's efforts to reduce over tourism by banning large cruise ships from the city centre.
Commenting from an ESG perspective, Ms Maria Deligianni shared how the company not only continues to pursue substantial decreases in emissions from vessel propulsion systems, but also prioritizes sustainable activity at cruising destinations the company operates in.
Asked about his views on the future of the cruise sector, Mr Bert Hernandez explained how the destination is the primary determinant of how people choose their vacation. “Destination is key. It’s therefore critical that our ships have access to these destinations, and this can only be secured through ongoing engagement with local communities.” It was agreed that local offices and partnerships help address infrastructure needs and foster long-term growth for cruising.
Concluding on a positive note, Mr Bert Hernandez explained how Cyprus played a leading role at the beginning of the pandemic in helping crew members get home. “This tiny nation really was the catalyst for allowing the cruise industry restart.”
PSA International announces upcoming changes in senior executive positions
Global port operator PSA International has announced that Mr Tan Chong Meng (pictured, left) will be retiring from his positions as the company’s Group CEO and Board Member with effect from 1 March 2024.
In line with succession plans, Mr Ong Kim Pong (pictured, right), currently the Regional CEO of Southeast Asia at PSA International, will assume the mantle of Group CEO and be appointed to the PSA International Board.
Mr Nelson Quek, Managing Director of the Container Business Division in PSA Singapore which is the global group’s flagship business unit, will take over the reins as Regional CEO of Southeast Asia. He will also become a member of PSA’s Senior Management Council.
Mr Peter Voser, Group Chairman of PSA International, said: “Chong Meng has led PSA from strength to strength as Group CEO for 12 years. On behalf of the Board of Directors, Management, Staff and Unions, I would like to express our heartfelt gratitude to Chong Meng for his exemplary leadership, vision and dedication. Under his steer, our PSA Group footprint has expanded from 17 to 43 countries worldwide and the business has diversified to serve a wider audience. This broader direction places PSA on a strong foundation to seize new opportunities and better serve global supply chain stakeholders in the years to come.
“It has been my utmost pleasure working alongside Chong Meng to transform PSA. We will dearly miss his boundless energy, astute wisdom and dedication, but wish him all the very best in his future endeavours.”
Mr Voser added: “At the same time, I am happy to announce that Kim Pong will be taking over the reins as PSA’s Group CEO. A well-respected professional with almost three decades of experience in our operations across the world including Southeast Asia, Europe, the Mediterranean and Northeast Asia, Kim Pong has a deep understanding of PSA’s business and is well-placed to helm the organisation’s continued transformation journey and growth. I am also grateful for Chong Meng and the Senior Management team who will support Kim Pong to ensure a smooth transition of leadership in the coming months.”
“I also wish to welcome Nelson to the senior management team as PSA’s upcoming Regional CEO of Southeast Asia. Nelson’s decades of rich experience in PSA have contributed significantly to the growth of our Singapore flagship as the world’s busiest transhipment hub, and in particular the development of Tuas Port. I have full confidence that he will be able to lead the regional team towards greater heights.”
Moby selects Kongsberg Maritime for emission-saving propulsion upgrade on five Ro-Ro passenger ferries
Kongsberg Maritime has won a contract to upgrade the propulsion systems on five Ro-Ro passenger ferries for Italian operator Moby Lines. The vessel upgrades will together reduce CO2 emissions by more than 30,000 tons per year.
Moby operates a fleet of Ro-Ro passenger ferries, operating in the western Mediterranean, including routes between the Italian mainland, Sicily, and Sardinia.
Three of the ships - the Moby Vinci, the Sharden, and the Moby Aki - will all receive a Promas Lite propulsion system, which combines rudder and propeller into one propulsion unit. Two further ships - the Moby Wonder and the Moby Tommy - will each receive re-bladed controllable pitch Kongsberg Kamewa propellers are part of their upgrade.
The Promas propulsion system integrates the controllable pitch propeller, hub cap, bulb, and rudder into one propulsive unit, increasing efficiency and manoeuvrability, and offering significant fuel savings without power losses. Available for either upgrades (Promas Lite) or for new build ships, Promas now has more than 200 references worldwide, across a range of ship types.
CEO of Moby, Mr Achille Onorato, said: “This latest investment into upgrading our fleet demonstrates our continuing commitment to reducing the environmental impact of our operations and improving the overall service we can offer customers. By carrying out a programme of relatively simple upgrades to the propulsion systems, we can reduce our CO2 emissions by more than 30,000 tons per year. We’re pleased to be working with Kongsberg Maritime again on this latest project, as we draw on their expertise in efficient propeller design to transform our operations.
“We’re investing in new ships and new routes, innovative services and distribution as well as pricing strategies, a strict, quality-oriented hiring policy and uncompromising attention to safety and the environment”.
Jouni Raatikainen, Kongsberg Maritime’s Executive Vice President Global Customer Support, said: “This latest upgrade will deliver significant reductions in carbon dioxide emissions for the five ships, and we’re delighted that Moby has again selected Kongsberg to provide an upgrade solution that supports our common goal to pursue sustainability, reduced fuel consumption and CO2 emissions.
“The Promas Lite propulsion system offers a relatively quick upgrade solution, which delivers efficiency savings and rapid return on investment. Our team at the Kongsberg Hydrodynamic Research Centre, in Sweden, has worked closely with Moby to design propellers that match the operational profile of each individual ship”.
Kongsberg Maritime has provided propulsion equipment to Moby since its early days in the 1970s when the company first started operations, purchasing several ferries from Scandinavian owners. Since then, Moby has grown significantly and invested in its fleet, including the latest new build, the Moby Fantasy.
Kongsberg Maritime has equipment on most of the Moby fleet, suppling controllable pitch propellers, tunnel thrusters and steering gear to almost all their ships.
Chevron partners with 123Carbon on marine carbon insetting pilot
123Carbon, the first independent blockchain-based carbon insetting platform for the transport sector, announces that it has completed an insetting pilot with Chevron by tokenising the emissions reductions associated with bunkering of biofuel for Chevron-owned vessel in Singapore. This successful pilot allows for further introduction of carbon insetting capabilities to other third-party customers.
Carbon insetting has the potential to allow fuel providers and carriers to allocate the emission reduction benefits and the associated costs of low carbon intensity fuels across the value chain to freight forwarders and shippers. It is a rapidly growing new emissions instrument for shipping and other modalities like air and road transport to create incentives for emission reductions.
123Carbon provides the blockchain-based platform to create the inset and enables customers to create verified and immutable blockchain tokens for CO2-equivalent reductions across their supply chain. This can enable carriers to allocate carbon reductions and associated costs to customers without having to go through a robust insetting process themselves. The company partners with AllChiefs and Bureau Veritas to also support clients with implementation services and external assurance.
“We are excited to work together with Chevron to help it make a real difference in reducing carbon intensity in its supply chains. Carbon insetting is a major driver in accelerating the journey to global net zero within transportation, as well as enabling companies and regulators to monitor the verifiable impact of these carbon reduction efforts,” said Jeroen van Heiningen, Managing Director at 123Carbon. “Our work with Chevron shows that transparent, high-quality innovation will play a critical role in the marine sector, ultimately driving meaningful emissions reductions.”
“Through this pilot partnership, Chevron continues to expand our capabilities to meet customer needs, and support the acceleration of lower carbon transport,” said Donny Suhartono, President of Chevron Product Supply and Trading.
“We are proud to collaborate with 123Carbon and Chevron on this pioneering project, which demonstrates that carbon insetting can already play a significant role in helping companies to reduce CO2-equivalent emissions across their supply chains today. Carbon insetting is a key component of the lower carbon supply chains of today’s and tomorrow, helping realise a lower carbon transportation sector globally,” said Benjamin Lechaptois, Sustainability Strategy Leader of Bureau Veritas Marine & Offshore.
The generated insets for Chevron were issued based on the Book & Claim methodology developed by Smart Freight Centre, a transport-focused NGO responsible for developing global guidance for carbon insetting.
Coach Solutions unveils EU ETS monitoring tool for simplified compliance
Coach Solutions, a leading provider of vessel optimisation solutions has launched a reporting tool designed to help owners and operators manage their fleets trading under the EU Emissions Trading System (EU ETS).
The software tool provides stakeholders with the ability to understand EU ETS carbon emissions related to specific vessels and time periods, providing a valuable support to ETS credit accounting between charterers, owners, and operators.
Carbon credits are calculated based on the emission factors associated with different fuel types, as well as the geographical locations of loading and discharge ports and the reference year.
The ETS reporting tool is designed to streamline the process of tracking and managing emissions, making it easier for vessel operators to comply with regulatory requirements and make informed decisions. By leveraging the power of data and analytics, Coach clients can gain a comprehensive understanding of their carbon footprint and take proactive steps towards reducing it.
The direct taxation of carbon emissions from ships in European waters becomes a reality for the maritime industry from January 2024. Allowances can be bought on the free market and many owners have begun doing so already in the hope of achieving a lower price than next year or to cover cargoes already in the book.
For vessels not operated by the owner - which is the case for large parts of the bulker and tanker industry - the owner may transfer the responsibility for buying the allowances to the charterer or operator during the charter period or voyage. The key to avoiding disputes will be the ability to transparently share data sets between partners that already have a commercial relationship.
“Working with the EU ETS requires learning to navigate an added level of complexity in charter party negotiations, so transparency of positions based on accurate data will be critical,” said Christian Råe Holm, Chief Operating Officer, Coach Solutions. “The Coach reporting tool enables shipowners and vessel operators to understand their exposure and manage the risks that result from the carbon price.”
Technology readiness for key zero carbon fuels is increasing, but other barriers remain: LR
The Lloyd’s Register (LR) Maritime Decarbonisation Hub’s October 2023 update of the Zero Carbon Fuel Monitor, which tracks technology, investment and community readiness of prominent alternative fuels for the maritime energy transition, has found that technology progress across fuel supply chains is evident, especially for ammonia and green hydrogen.
Significant milestones have been achieved for ammonia in 2023, with WinGD's two stroke ammonia engine having received LR approval in principle as well as MAN Energy Solutions’ (MAN ES) successful completion of the first test engine running on ammonia. Green hydrogen production is also on the rise, and a bunkering license has now been granted in the Netherlands.
Overall, there has been an increase in readiness levels scattered across the key fuels and their supply chain stages, notably ammonia, methanol and hydrogen. A key factor is the success of government strategies for decarbonisation in driving land-side infrastructure expansion.
These investments and support at government level have the potential to contribute to fuel availability, port infrastructure and regulatory advancements that will benefit shipping. There has been an increase in national hydrogen energy strategies worldwide, with major countries such as the UK, China and India actively investing in renewable energy and land-side hydrogen infrastructure.
However, for methane, concerns over methane slip are affecting technology readiness level (TRL). This challenge is being tackled by Safetytech Accelerator-led Methane Abatement in Maritime innovation initiative (MAMII) which is working to identify solutions and mechanisms for capturing, calculating and managing methane slip emissions, and best practices will be shared with industry to tackle this challenge. Additionally, community readiness levels (CRL) of methane and methanol production has been impacted by uncertainties around the scale-up of sustainably sourced carbon.
The Zero Carbon Fuel Monitor update also found that demand for biodiesel has increased, although long term availability of sustainable biofuel feedstock remains uncertain. Efforts to cultivate third-generation feedstocks (characterised by high yield and rapid growth rates) like macroalgae are underway, which can be used for advanced biofuels production.
Given these assessments, the Monitor identified key priority areas to drive the transition forward. A foremost priority is to develop demand profiles to minimise investment risks and create commercially viable business cases for zero-emission shipping. Complementing this is sustainable resource scale-up to enable adequate fuel production for future demand.
Policy consistency across the value chain globally will be essential for attracting investments. Fostering research, development and educational initiatives will help to drive the safe and sustainable adoption of zero carbon fuels, whilst the pace of technology development must be accelerated to meet evolving industry needs.
Amelia Hipwell, Decarbonisation Innovation Manager, LR Maritime Decarbonisation Hub commented: “Shipping’s transition to zero carbon fuels cannot be achieved through individual action or in isolation, and requires cross-sector collaboration, transparency and knowledge-sharing across the shipping industry. Although technology readiness across the supply chain is increasing for key candidate fuels, significant barriers to adoption remain in terms of investment and community readiness. Hence the need for collective action across stakeholders in the industry to drive forward the transition.”
The Zero Carbon Fuel Monitor online web tool, developed by the LR Maritime Decarbonisation Hub, a joint initiative between Lloyd’s Register Group and Lloyd’s Register Foundation, is an insight-based assessment of fuels readiness that aims to provide the basis for effective decision making as the maritime sector navigates the journey to a decarbonised future. The web tool can be found at lr.org/zerocarbonfuelmonitor
The full report can be downloaded from the LR website.
Shipping must look beyond the engine - the real challenge is an industry transformed, says ABS chief
Shipping must look beyond its current focus on engine technology and address the widespread disruption introduced by the clean energy transition. That was the keynote message for the industry from Christopher J. Wiernicki, ABS Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, at the SHIPPINGInsight 2023 event held in Stamford, CT outside New York this week.
“The real action is far beyond the engine,” Wiernicki said. “We have just seen MEPC 80 redraw the compliance performance of most alternative fuels by moving from tank-to-wake to well-to-wake, introducing the activities and complexities of an entire supply chain to emissions calculations. And that is just the beginning.
“Consider all the new players now impacting shipping, with new relationships, technologies, boundary conditions and operational strategies combining to disrupt and utterly transform the industry. Looking down the road to 2050, it is clear to me that shipping will move to a multi-dimensional world, where fuels, technology and data must unite to provide the hybrid solutions required to achieve net zero.”
While the technical hurdles on the path to 2050 are significant, it is the availability and scalability of alternative fuels and associated infrastructure that will prove to be the defining challenge of the transition, said Wiernicki.
“The scale and magnitude of the clean energy shipping challenge before us is daunting. But you can pretty much boil it down to our ability to drive-down costs and drive-up efficiencies in two critical technologies: electrolyzers and carbon capture.
“Ultimately, our ability to harness clean energy to split water into oxygen and green hydrogen via electrolysis at scale and to efficiently trap CO2 from fossil fuel emissions and produce blue hydrogen via carbon capture technology are going to be the defining challenges,” said Wiernicki.
“It is arguable that the decarbonisation of shipping is increasingly a question of the ability of alternative fuel providers to deliver green product at affordable prices – and it is here that electrolyzer costs are going to be key. And since we can’t build enough ships to magically replace the global fleet, retrofitted carbon capture is going to be centre stage, along with energy efficiency technologies,” he added.
Port of London Authority welcomes four more trainee pilots
Four more experienced mariners have joined the Port of London Authority (PLA), to help the growing trade on the river Thames and ensure navigational safety for vessels visiting the UK’s busiest, joining a 123-strong team of PLA Marine Pilots.
The quartet of new appointees, who this week embarked on an intensive six-month course, are :
Hadyn Clarke started his career at Trinity House, studying at Fleetwood Nautical College. He worked for Disney Cruise Line before moving to Extreme E as Chief Officer. For a long time, Hadyn has aspired to become a PLA Pilot and is looking forward to working in familiar waters.
Ilyes Dali-Ahmed has a seagoing career that spans over a decade, working his way from Cadet to Safety Officer with Marella. He has voyaged around the world, visiting hundreds of destinations, and is looking forward to starting a new chapter with the PLA.
Sergio Panzini, graduated from Istituto Tecnico Nautico Giovanni Caboto, beginning his career on cargo ships as a Cadet. In 2013, he then moved into the cruise industry before completing a world tour in 2017, working his way up to Chief Officer. Pilotage has been a long-term aspiration of his and is now looking forward to being part of the PLA team.
Valerii Velichaiev started his career as a Deck Cadet on bulk carrier fleet, before graduating from Odessa National Maritime Academy in 2015. He worked his way up to Chief Officer and has gained plenty of seagoing experience around the world. Just before the war broke out in Ukraine, his homeland, Valerii gained his Master Unlimited CoC and now looks to fulfil his dream of becoming a pilot, providing his family with a sense of home and security in England.
The PLA pilotage department, currently providing a service level of 99.5%, has seen an 80% reduction in port wide delays since the turn of the year, with the team set to complete close to 11,000 jobs before November.
So far, over 100 simulator training sessions have taken place this year, which has helped 48 PLA Pilots to increase their authorisation limit.
Dave Newbury, PLA Marine Pilotage Manager said: “Expanding our pool of available talent means we will be able to maintain a resilient service for our customers and will also help expand the volume of freight delivered to this country by river. These four new recruits follow the six PLA trainee pilots already successfully appointed in 2023.”
Maersk signs deal with Starlink for its Ocean fleet
A.P. Moller – Maersk (Maersk)is embarking on a collaboration with Starlink, the pioneering satellite internet constellation developed by SpaceX.
Maersk’s more than 330 own operated container vessels will have Starlink installed, enabling high-speed internet with speeds over 200 Mbps. The service is a leap forward in terms of internet speed and latency which will bring significant benefits in terms of both crew welfare and business impact.
The agreement comes after a successful pilot phase where crew members on more than 30 Maersk vessels have had the opportunity to test the Starlink technology – resulting in very positive feedback.
“We are excited to announce our journey with Starlink to provide state of the art connectivity to our sea going colleagues. The highspeed connectivity will enable our seagoing colleagues to stay connected with their loved ones while at sea. It will also propel the expansion of seamless cloud solutions, enabling our vision to digitalise our vessel operations,” says Leonardo Sonzio, Head of Fleet Management and Technology at A.P. Moller - Maersk.
Besides obvious benefits from highspeed internet resulting in seamless streaming and high definition videocalls for crew members, high-speed, low latency internet will also facilitate cost saving measures by moving business critical applications into the cloud and by strengthening remote support and inspections of the vessels.
Starlink has been changing the game to provide reliable and high-speed internet across the globe with its state-of-the-art satellite network. Its vision is to create a globally connected world where opportunities are not limited by geography – making it a great fit to solve the challenges of staying connected on the high seas of the world.
John-Kaare Aune to leave Wallem Group, John Rowley appointed as next CEO
The Board of Directors of Wallem Group has announced that John-Kaare Aune will be stepping aside as Wallem Group’s CEO and after a period of transition will leave in January 2024, to be succeeded by John Rowley. Having joined Wallem in 2019 as Managing Director, Shipmanagement, John-Kaare Aune was appointed as Group CEO in January 2021.
Nigel Hill, Wallem Group Chairman, said: “On behalf of the Wallem Board, I would like to thank John for his leadership and dedication over the past three years as CEO. We are grateful for his hard work and commitment in stabilising Wallem’s operations and positioning the company for growth after what has been a challenging time for the maritime industry. We respect John’s decision, and he leaves with our thanks and best wishes for the future.”
On his departure, John-Kaare Aune (pictured, left), outgoing Wallem Group CEO, said: “It was a difficult decision to step aside as the Wallem Group CEO. However, with operations having normalised after the impact of the pandemic, I felt that the time was right. Now that my successor has been identified, I will be exploring new opportunities.
“It has been an honour to have had the opportunity to be part of the Wallem Group, we have improved client service levels, continued the digitalisation of the company services, and set the foundation for Wallem’s journey towards decarbonisation. I would like to thank our shareholders, Board of Directors, our excellent clients and all my colleagues ashore and at sea for their support during my time at Wallem. I wish the Wallem Group and my successor every success in the years to come.”
Following Aune’s departure, the Wallem Board has appointed John Rowley (pictured, right) to succeed him, with effect from 1st January 2024. John is currently Senior Vice President Global Food and Transportation Divisions at NSF, prior to which he was CEO SAI Global Assurance following eight years on the executive team at the Lloyds Register Group, as CEO Lloyd’s Register Quality Assurance (LRQA) as well as the Group’s Asia Pacific President.
On John Rowley’s appointment, Nigel Hill, Wallem Group Chairman, said: “We are delighted to appoint John Rowley as Wallem Group’s next CEO with his experience in, and understanding of, the global maritime industry and his successful track record of accelerating revenue growth across a number of industry sectors. The Wallem Board and I look forward to working with him to ensure the success of the next stage of Wallem’s journey.”
John Rowley, incoming Wallem Group CEO, said: “I am thrilled to be joining Wallem Group as CEO of this amazing organisation. Wallem is one of the maritime industry’s most trusted and respected brands, and I look forward to working together with the Wallem board, management, and employees, as well as the many clients and stakeholders, to lead the company forwards through the next chapter of its incredible voyage.”
Israel-Palestine conflict set to create maritime challenges while trade continues with caution
The Israel-Palestine conflict, marked by recent violence between Israel and Hamas, has sent ripples through the shipping and maritime industry, leading international companies to issue cautionary advisories and adapt their operations in the region, as container logistics platform Container xChange writes in this Analysis piece.
“In light of recent developments in the Middle East, including the outbreak of war in Israel and its vulnerability to missile attacks and the incursion of opposing militias, the security of transporting goods through the port of Haifa has become uncertain,” said Hossein Norouz Fashkhami, a senior marketing expert from the Middle East.
“The transit of containers, especially hazardous materials, and the arrival of commercial vessels greatly emphasize the importance of security on this route. Such insecurity or potential terrorist attacks could lead to a shift in the transportation of goods.”
Maersk, a major player in the industry, reassured stakeholders by announcing that its port operations across Israel’s key terminals are functioning without disruption. MSC echoed this sentiment, asserting that Israel’s major terminals are operational, enabling them to facilitate cargo delivery.
However, the maritime industry is aware of the security situation, and companies such as MSC remain vigilant, pledging to monitor the situation closely and heed government guidance. This underscores the industry’s adaptability and resilience in the face of geopolitical tensions.
The specific impact on individual ports includes as follows:
- Port of Ashdod: This port, situated a mere 50 kilometres from the Gaza border, operates in an ’emergency mode’ only, subject to potential missile attacks. Furthermore, restrictions on vessels carrying Hazardous Materials (HAZMAT) remain in effect.
- Port of Haifa: the port of Haifa, encompassing the Haifa Bay port and Israel shipyard, continues with business as usual, undeterred by the conflict.
- Port of Ashkelon: Located just 15 kilometres from the Gaza border, the Port of Ashkelon is severely impacted, rendering it incapable of normal operations due to missile threats. Vessels can only discharge cargo while moored at sea buoys, highlighting the risk and necessity for adaptive measures.
- Port of Hadera: The port of Hadera carries on without disruption, maintaining its regular functions.
- Port of Eilat: The port of Eilat similarly remains operational, showcasing the industry’s commitment to ensuring the flow of maritime trade.
Beyond the ports, several global companies with a presence in Israel have been forced to adjust their operations. Chevron, the second-largest U.S. oil and gas producer, was directed by Israel’s energy ministry to shut down the Tamar natural gas field off the country’s northern coast. Adani Ports, operator of the Haifa Port, assured stakeholders of operational readiness while closely monitoring the situation and having a business continuity plan in place.
The Israel-Palestine conflict serves as a testament to the shipping and maritime industry’s ability to adapt, demonstrating that despite challenges and disruptions, trade and operations can persist, albeit with the necessary caution and vigilance.
NAPA welcomes expansion of Blue Visby as Development Bank of Japan joins consortium
Maritime software and data services provider NAPA has welcomed the addition of the Development Bank of Japan (DBJ) to the Blue Visby Consortium. Blue Visby is a cross-industry project aimed at reducing shipping’s greenhouse gas emissions by tackling the “sail fast, then wait” practice – which sees ships sailing at speed across oceans (increasing their emissions exponentially) only to wait at anchorage for extended periods.
The inclusion of the first financial institution in the consortium is an important milestone for Blue Visby, which combines an innovative contractual framework and state-of-the-art transparent digital technology to optimize arrival times for groups of vessels travelling to the same port, enabling them to reduce their speed and emissions without losing a competitive advantage. DBJ will support the development of this system by providing financing know-how and advice.
The Blue Visby platform, which is underpinned by NAPA’s digital expertise, is progressing at pace on the technical side towards its implementation on the world’s fleets. In August 2023, Marubeni and Blue Visby verified an average of 15% CO2 reduction on 68 gas and chemical tankers on 625 voyages and signed a letter of intent for proceeding to a real-life prototype.
Meanwhile, the number of members of the Blue Visby Consortium has more than doubled since the project was formally launched in July 2022, from 13 members originally to 31 today. Co-ordinated by NAPA and law firm Stephenson Harwood, the project spans key stakeholders in the maritime industry, including BIMCO, Baltic Exchange, UK Hydrographic Office, shipowners MOL and Marubeni, grain exporter CBH, insurer Thomas Miller, the Port of Newcastle, Port Authority of New South Wales, classification societies ClassNK and Bureau Veritas, as well as environmental organizations and academia.
Pekka Pakkanen, Executive Vice President for Shipping Solutions at NAPA, said: “We are extremely proud to see that Blue Visby has expanded its reach significantly in the past few months. The addition of a first bank is a major milestone for the Consortium, demonstrating the financial credibility of the project, and we look forward to the next steps, which will include more prototypes to bring this innovative solution to more shipping segments.
“The success of Blue Visby shows in tangible terms what shipping can achieve when different stakeholders in shipping proactively agree to collaborate and share some of the risks and benefits of the decarbonization transition. It also shows the central role of digital technology in bringing those innovative frameworks to life. By tackling ‘sail fast then wait’, one of the biggest inefficiencies that still stands in the way of decarbonization progress, we can make a significant difference on our industry’s carbon footprint today, reducing GHG emissions from voyages by around 15%.”
New BIO-SEA Mini BWTS launched
To meet increased demand for ballast water treatment systems from operators of workboats, yachts, research ships, OSVs, and similar-sized vessels, UV-based water treatment specialist BIO-UV Group has introduced what is arguably the smallest UV BWTS in the marketplace.
The new BIO-SEA L01-0030 Mini – more compact than the company’s existing low-flow BIO-SEA L range – is a fully automated filtration + UV-based system designed to treat ballast water flow rates between 13m3/h and 30m3/h from a unit that has a skid footprint of just 1m2.
Part of its “L” range (for flow rates from 13m3/h to 120 m3/h), the addition of the new L Mini means there is now a dedicated low-flow BIO-SEA BWTS for processing capacities below 30m3/h.
“We have been able to reduce system footprint and overall size without impacting performance,” said Pierre Decloedt, Technical Director, BIO-SEA by BIO-UV Group. “Essentially, what we have done is added component flexibility and reduced the height of the system – a key consideration when trying to fit a ballast water treatment system into a small machinery space. The L01-0030 Mini is the smallest, most compact BWTS we have designed for this market sector.”
Chemical-free, with zero active substances and by-products, the BIO-SEA Mini has been tested in low UV water transmittance conditions with performance unaffected by water temperature and salinity.
With a white gloss finish, CuNiFe pipework, high-quality components, filter choices, and drip tray as options, the L01-0030 Mini can be delivered as a covered skid allowing for installation in areas outside the machinery room, such as the hangar, garage, or indeed, an open space. A loose component modular version is also available.
“There are always space constraints, even on newbuild yachts. But we have listened to builders, managers, and owners to produce a compact, completely automated, plug-in-and-play BWTS that meets their dimensional and performance requirements,” he said.
BIO-SEA Unit Director Maxime Dedeurwaerder furthered that the development originates from a technical management company's request to source a BWTS compatible with the machinery space dimensions of a yacht undergoing refit. “The company couldn’t find a suitably sized BWTS and asked for a USCG extension until the Mini 30 was ready this summer.”
Dedeurwaerder confirmed that BIO-SEA by BIO-UV Group has already received orders for the new BIO-SEA L01-0030 Mini. “We have four firm orders since launching the Mini 30 in July, two of these orders are for newbuild superyachts and we are also in discussions with a Mediterranean yard to refit a 33m yacht with a BIO-SEA L01-0030 Mini modular version (loose components). If the project moves forward, it would be the smallest super yacht equipped with BIO-SEA BWTS.
“Any small ship that is mandated to comply with the BWM Convention now has a solution available that is certified to meet IMO & USCG standards. It is also future-proofed for more stringent rules should smaller vessels fall under IMO scrutiny, in coming years.”
Dedeurwaerder added: “In a fast-evolving marketplace, system flexibility, agility, and scalability are crucial in meeting current and future ballast water treatment requirements. By providing effective, high-performing turnkey BWT solutions with our customary short lead teams, we can remain the foremost provider of ballast water treatment systems for the low-flow market.”
BIO UV Group has a range of certified UV-based BWTS for all types of vessels and ballast water flow rates. The France-based listed company also provides 3D scanning, design, installation, commissioning, maintenance, and after-sales services as part of a complete turnkey BWTS package.
Sea partners with Spot Ship to automate vessel availability and data use in fixing freight
Sea, the intelligent marketplace for fixing freight, has announced a strategic partnership with Spot Ship to integrate its AI email parser solution into Sea’s platform and automate the vessel and cargo matching process. Spot Ship is a platform built for brokers, charterers, and operators that utilises powerful AI and machine learning tools to automatically extract key market data points from emails.
When the integration is complete, it will enable charterers, brokers, and ship operators on Sea’s platform to extract insights around vessel availability automatically, rather than going through a manual data exchange process. At present, charterers and operators manually extract intelligence from broker emails to keep track of vessels over time.
As well as reducing the administrative burden and creating a seamless experience for users, this partnership will in turn power better decisions to enable sustainable shipping. The enhanced insights provided by Spot Ship will give Sea’s customers the right data at the right time to power data-driven decision making, including:
• Commercial availability of relevant vessels
• Fleet tracking, to keep players informed on timelines
• Live market information – cutting through the noise of countless market circulars to focus on only the most relevant developments, reducing duplication of information and enhancing competitiveness
This partnership brings Sea an important step closer to digitising chartering workflows and pre-fixture documentation through its intelligent marketplace. Peter Schroder, CEO at Sea, said: “Inboxes are overloaded with updates and communications when matching cargo to vessels, and hours are spent creating and maintaining intelligence lists to capture these insights. Through our collaboration with Spot Ship, we’re not just giving those hours back to our customers, we’re also equipping them with the tools they need to make data-driven decisions. Spot Ship has market leading parser accuracy, which makes them the perfect partner for our work to digitise freight chartering workflows.”
James Kellett, Co-CEO at Spot Ship, said: “We’re delighted to be working with a company that shares our vision as to the vital importance of digitising processes in freight workflows. The automation of previously manual processes around vessel and cargo matching will save precious hours, drive operational efficiencies, and deliver additional insights that can support market competitiveness for Sea’s customers as we sail together into the data age.”
New e-Learning course launched to train auditors
A new online course has been launched which aims to provide maritime administration officers and trainees with the tools and knowledge required to conduct audits under the IMO Member State Audit Scheme (IMSAS). ‘Training for auditors under the IMO Member State Audit Scheme (Self-paced E-learning)’ can be accessed via the IMO e-Learning platform.
The training is targeted at officials who are involved in conducting internal audits of their administrations and who, following completion of this training, may be nominated as auditors under IMSAS. It is part of IMO's work to assist Member States improve their capabilities and to facilitate effective implementation of applicable IMO instruments.
The mandatory Implementation of IMO Instruments (III) Code provides guidance for Member States on implementing and enforcing the requirements of IMO instruments. The Code serves as the audit standard for IMSAS to verify the level of States’ implementation of flag, coastal and port State obligations.
Delegations attending the 7th session of the Joint Working Group on the Member State Audit Scheme (JWGMSA7, 12 October 2023) watched a presentation on the new training course which uses animation and consists of modules that include case studies and interactive role-playing scenarios. The course also incorporates self-paced e-exercises and e-quizzes.
The content is based on an existing five-day auditors’ training course provided as regional training to officials of maritime administrations nominated by their Member States.
IMO developed the training in collaboration with the World Maritime University (WMU) within the IMO-WMU e-Learning pilot project framework. The development of the project was funded by the Kingdom of the Netherlands and the Technical Cooperation (TC) Fund. Distance learning is a key way for IMO to meet changing educational needs and enhance the outreach of relevant content, so the Organization is offering students and maritime professionals around the world the possibility to boost their understanding of key maritime issues with a series of courses through the IMO e-learning platform.
The Switch to supply DC-Hub and unique protection devices for world’s largest marine battery system
Helsinki-headquartered power electronics specialist The Switch will deliver its market-leading DC power distribution solution, The Switch DC-Hub, and ultra-fast Electronic Current Limiter (ECL) and Battery Short-Circuit Limiter (BSCL) protection devices as part of the battery-electric system for the world’s largest fully electric RoPax (rendering pictured) on order for Argentine ferry operator Buquebus.
Technology group Wärtsilä will provide the uniquely designed, fully battery-powered vessel with e-motor driven Wärtsilä waterjets as the main propulsors. The battery modules and energy storage package is four times larger than on any electric/hybrid ship currently operating.
Corvus Energy will supply its Dolphin NextGen lightweight Energy Storage System (ESS), which with more than 40 MWh of energy storage will be the largest battery system ever installed on a ship.
“We’re very proud to be contributing to this milestone project at a time when marine battery systems are getting bigger and bigger,” says Paul Atherton, General Manager Operation Unit Norway at The Switch. “The project represents a big leap for the industry, which our proprietary DC-Hub power distribution drives and protection technology are helping to enable. Without our game-changing protection devices, it simply wouldn’t be possible to make battery systems safe on this scale.”
DC power distribution in ships is widely recognized as being more energy-efficient than AC systems in many cases. However, DC power distribution needs a different protection philosophy. Moreover, today’s larger batteries require ultra-fast and fail-safe protection to withstand larger battery short-circuit currents. In addition, ultra-fast protection devices reduce the size of the total system by reducing the short-circuit current levels in the system.
Therefore, The Switch embarked already 10 years ago in engineering a robust suite of protection devices to protect against short-circuit faults and ensure the greatest safety.
“Our suite of ultra-fast disconnect devices are specifically designed to guarantee safe DC distribution under all sailing conditions. Our protection devices also help to find optimal and compact solution especially with large batteries. This makes DC increasingly attractive for future-flexibility,” says Teemu Heikkilä, Head of Product Line Converters at The Switch.
The Switch DC-Hub for multiple applications optimize multi-megawatt DC distribution systems for all marine vessels. The 4 ultrafast devices protect inside The Switch DC-Hubs, between DC-Hubs, and to and from batteries.
The Switch Electronic Current Limiter (ECL) handles faults toward the batteries from the DC-Hub, protecting them from external failure and ensure ride-through.
The Switch Battery Short-Circuit Limiter (BSCL) restricts any short-term current from batteries, immediately blocking the short-circuit system. This allows more batteries to be connected to the electrical system and fewer DC-Hubs, making the entire system more compact. It is optimized for the much higher inductance of battery banks that a bus link cannot handle.”
The Switch Electronic DC Breaker (EDCB) protects against short-circuit faults inside a DC-Hub and ensures ride-through. This semiconductor-based device disconnects any failing drive module within 10 microseconds from the common DC link.
The Switch Electronic Bus Link (EBL) connects the vessel’s DC-Hubs and protects against faults between DC-Hubs. The DP3-rated and DNV-approved EBL provides protection outside the DC-Hub by spitting onboard grids in microseconds to isolate any faulty DC-Hub.
The catamaran will be built by Incat shipyard of Tasmania, which specializes in lightweight aluminum ship solutions for ferry operators, special service providers and military applications. With an overall length of 130 metres and a width of 32 metres it will be able to carry 2,100 passengers and 226 cars on services between Argentina and Uruguay. Delivery is scheduled for 2025.
BIMCO adopts new CII clause for Voyage Charter Parties
The shipping industry is facing an increase in new regulations from the International Maritime Organization (IMO) and the European Union (EU) and an increase in the urgency to decarbonise. To support the industry, BIMCO has developed a new CII Clause for Voyage Charter Parties. The clause was adopted by BIMCO’s Documentary Committee on 11 October and is the latest addition to BIMCO’s portfolio of carbon clauses.
“As the shipping industry works towards decarbonisation, the need for new contracts and clauses increases. We are working constantly to ensure that BIMCO’s contracts and clauses are fit for purpose as the regulatory landscape changes,” says Nicholas Fell, Chairperson of BIMCO’s Documentary Committee.
In November 2022, BIMCO’s Documentary Committee adopted the CII Operations Clause for Time Charter Parties ahead of the IMO’s carbon intensity indicator (CII) regulation which entered into force on 1 January 2023. After its publication, a new subcommittee was tasked with developing a CII Clause for Voyage Charter Parties which has now been adopted.
These clauses aim to facilitate collaboration and provide certainty between shipowners and charterers as new regulations come into force, changing the way the industry operates to assist compliance and cut emissions.
“The new CII clause focusses on course adjustment and speed reduction and includes commercial elements such as data sharing. Throughout the process, drafts were shared with the Documentary Committee and a sounding board consisting of charterers and traders for consultation and comments,” says Stinne Taiger Ivø, Director, Contracts & Support at BIMCO.
Other carbon clauses from BIMCO include the EEXI Transition Clause, published in December 2021, and the Emissions Trading System Allowances (ETSA) Clause for Time Charter Parties, published at the end of May 2022.
New President for International Salvage Union
The Annual General Meeting of the International Salvage Union (ISU) was held in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, 12 October 2023. At the conclusion of the meeting, Mr John Witte Jr, President/CEO at Donjon Marine, USA, became the new President of the ISU.
Mr Witte succeeds Captain Nicholas Sloane, Resolve Marine, USA, who will continue as a member of the ISU Executive Committee.
Capt. Sloane said: “It has been an absolute honour and privilege to have been the President of ISU these past two years, and to represent the interests of all our members as we have tackled the major issues facing our industry. The ISU’s own statistics show that our members are facing difficult economic times but we are a vibrant industry and we continue to provide vital services. The ISU members are critical partners for insurers and owners to help meet their ESG requirements.
“In the past two years we have made good progress on issues such as the SCOPIC rates and the creation of new guidelines for Special Casualty Representatives and on the BIMCO 2023 WreckStage contract. We have maintained good relations with the clubs, owners and property insurers.
“I am delighted to be handing over to John Witte who comes from a family with a long and proud tradition in salvage. John has much experience of the industry - both as a salvage master and operational manager - and has demonstrated great commitment to marine salvage and the ISU of which he is a past President and I am sure the leadership of our association will be in good hands.”
Commenting on his appointment, Mr Witte said: “I would like to thank Nick for all that he has done for the ISU over the past two years: he has shown great dedication to the role. For my part it is a great honour to be the President of the ISU and I look forward to leading the association as it continues to address the current challenges, in particular, enhancing the reputation of the industry and strengthening further our relationships with shipowners and insurers.”
At the same time, Captain Leendert Muller, Managing Director of Multraship Towage & Salvage, The Netherlands, was confirmed as the vice President of the ISU. Mr Muller is a past President of the association.
Pole Star Global acquires StratumFive Group, expanding its coverage in fleet monitoring and voyage optimisation
Pole Star Global, the pioneer and market leader in maritime intelligence technology, with the largest blue water fleet under management, is pleased to announce its successful acquisition of StratumFive, a prominent maritime tech company. StratumFive’s Podium5, an award winning voyage informatics platform, brings together fleet monitoring, regulatory compliance, performance analytics and voyage optimisation into one powerful platform.
The acquisition of StratumFive represents a natural progression for Pole Star Global, as both companies share a deep-rooted dedication to delivering innovative solutions that empower the maritime community. The combination expands Pole Star’s industry leading fleet coverage and complements its leadership in vessel compliance and tracking solutions, with PurpleTRAC and MDA, used by leading government agencies, global banks and vessel operators globally. The Podium5 platform leverages the previously acquired FleetWeather capability, with a proven track record of enhancing vessel performance and safety through advanced model-based route optimisation.
"We are excited to welcome StratumFive into the Pole Star family," said Bob Skea, CEO of Pole Star Global. "By joining forces, we are reaffirming our commitment to innovation for our customers. The Podium5 platform not only enhances our capabilities in vital voyage analytics, but also accelerates our efforts with vessel emissions transparency and planning, which is critical as we enable trusted partners throughout the maritime network. We are excited to be working with Stuart, Ross and team.”
Commenting on the acquisition, Stuart Nichols, Founder of StratumFive Group, said, "We are excited to become part of the Pole Star family. This partnership will allow us to accelerate the development of innovative solutions that will further transform the maritime industry. Together, we will continue to provide our customers with the best-in-class services and support they expect." Stuart Nicholls and StratumFive CEO Ross Martin will join Pole Star in newly created leadership positions to ensure continuity for customers and partners.
Said Ross Martin, CEO, StratumFive Group, “Podium5 provides the solution that our industry desperately needs to realise digitalisation and other operational efficiencies around shipping. Our outreach to the sector throughout Podium’s development has shown that it is a gamechanger for decision-making. We are extremely excited to be working with Pole Star to drive digital prosperity across our industry."
About Pole Star: Pole Star Global is trusted by the world’s top regulatory entities and is the only company in the world that operates at the epicentre of the maritime ecosystem by connecting government agencies, financial markets & ship owners and operators. Stakeholders depend on Pole Star to assess responsible actors and bridge the gap between service providers, regulators, and funders. Our unrivalled predictive maritime insights, data, and expertise enable our customers to act responsibly in the areas of trade finance, emissions control, life at sea, surveillance, sanctions avoidance, and operational and reputational risk management.
EXMAR and global shipping leaders unveil order for two new ammonia dual-fuel midsize gas carriers
Lloyd’s Register (LR), EXMAR LPG BV (a joint venture between EXMAR and Seapeak), Wärtsilä, WinGD and Hyundai Mipo Dockyard (HD HMD) have announced the order of two 46k cbm ammonia dual-fuel midsize gas carriers as part of a Joint Development Project (JDP), with the first vessel due for delivery in early 2026.
The two ammonia dual-fuel vessels will be fitted with WinGD’s ammonia dual-fuel technology, after the option was taken up following EXMAR’s order for two midsize LPG (Liquefied Petroleum Gas) carriers in 2022. The two vessels will use WinGD’s X-DF-A dual-fuel range, which achieved the first ever class approval for ammonia two-stroke engines from LR in September 2023.
The shipping department of EXMAR currently owns/operates 17 midsize gas carriers, three very large gas carriers, and 10 pressurised vessels.
EXMAR has a history of leading innovation, having forged ahead with AiP (approval in principle) for LPG as fuel in 2012 which materialised in 2021 with the delivery of two VLGC's (Very Large Gas Carrier). Now, navigating the difficult regulatory landscape surrounding the IGC Code for use of ammonia as fuel, these orders for the ammonia dual fuel LPG/NH3 carriers represent further evidence of EXMAR acting as a first mover in the adoption of alternative fuelled vessels for the global gas supply chain.
HD HMD in collaboration with Wärtsilä, Win GD and LR have been able to overcome the challenges for the safe design of this ammonia fuel LPG/NH3 carrier considering all the safety and toxic aspects associated with the fuel, and maintaining an inherent safe design in comparison with the use of methane as fuel.
The increased demand for ammonia propelled vessels has seen LR’s growing involvement in a number of projects, including a Memorandum of Understanding for SDARI and MAN Energy Solutions’ ammonia dual-fuel 3,200 TEU containership and an AiP for HMD’s 10,000 cbm ammonia bunkering vessel at Gastech 2023, whilst the Castor Initiative for a deep-sea ammonia tanker boasts eight cross supply chain members.
Nick Brown, CEO, Lloyd’s Register, said: “Lloyd’s Register is pleased to sign this joint venture with EXMAR, HD HMD, Wärtsilä and WinGD for two mid-size dual-fuel LPG/NH3 gas carriers. It is crucial that the maritime sector continues to provide support for future fuel and technology projects with first movers and flag states in a challenging regulatory environment, ensuring our industry can continue safely and rapidly along the pathway of decarbonisation.”
EXMAR’s Deputy Director Shipping, Carl-Antoine Saverys said: “As global leader in maritime ammonia and LPG transportation we have a long history of innovative ship designs and floating infrastructure. With four decades of experience in handling ammonia cargoes we are confident in our ability to use this innovative zero-carbon shipping fuel safely and effectively. This journey continues to shape the maritime industry, and we're pleased with the strong collaboration with Lloyd’s Register and the other partners to drive sustainability forward.”
INTERCARGO highlights new membership high in Annual Review
As the International Association of Dry Cargo Shipowners (INTERCARGO) publishes its Annual Review taking in the highs and lows of the past 12 months, it is celebrating its membership reaching the highest point in its 43-year history.
The Association now represents about a third of the global dry bulk fleet in deadweight terms, after reaching a new historic high at the end of August this year.
Highlighting the historic milestone in the newly published Annual Review, which covers the reporting period from September 2022 to August 2023, INTERCARGO Secretary General Dr Kostas Gkonis explained that the Association now boasts 250 members from across 30 countries. These are made up of full members, comprising nearly 160 companies and registering 3,300 bulk carriers, together with associate member companies.
INTERCARGO provides a forum where dry bulk shipowners, managers and operators are kept informed about and can discuss topics such as safety and quality in ship operations, with a focus on operational efficiency and the protection of the marine environment, while the Association also represents its members’ views at the International Maritime Organization as well other industry fora.
“INTERCARGO will continue to act in the interest of all its members by addressing the key issues faced by the dry bulk sector,” said Gkonis.
INTERCARGO will be next holding its regular deliberations during its Annual General Meeting and semi-annual Committees’ meetings in Athens next week (October 23-24).
To access the Annual Review please click: https://www.intercargo.org/annual-review-2022-2023/
Dualog introduces ShareView™ to improve overview of data transfers
Dualog, a leading maritime software provider, introduces a major enhancement to the Dualog® Drive data transfer service. This latest innovation ShareView™, provides a simplified overview of data transfers between ship and shore to the actual stakeholders like HR, Purchasing or even Captains.
With ShareView™ Dualog adds further value to its large investment in the data exchange service Dualog® Drive – a purpose-built service for shipping and developed in close collaboration with the company’s customers.
With more bandwidth available, the data flow between ship and shore has increased substantially, and the need for a better overview is required.
ShareView™ offers a dedicated link on a “need to know basis” that shows how specific tasks are progressing in real-time. This simplifies work, lessens the need for IT help, and brings more clarity to the process.
ShareView™ makes it easier to monitor data transfers and encourage teamwork between ship and office teams. By giving access to updates on transmission status, it improves decision-making and communication.
Kristian Olsen, Product Manager at Dualog, says: “With ShareView™ customers monitor their data just like a parcel tracking function.”
"Our goal has always been to simplify ship-shore data transfers. ShareView™ is a big step in that direction. It offers both onboard and onshore users better control of their tasks and reduces the pressure on IT staff," summarises Kristian Olsen.
With the new ShareView™ service, Dualog® Drive is strengthening its position as a purpose-built innovative solution for ship/shore data management. The ShareView™ feature reaffirms Dualog's commitment to bring ship and shore closer and help our customers to run their digital operations more efficiently, securely, and competitively.
For more information about Dualog® Drive and its ShareView™ feature, please visit https://dualog.com/drive
AAL strengthens project cargo services in Taiwan with new agency
With local representation in Taiwan for over 20 years, AAL Shipping (AAL) is expanding its presence in the country and strengthening its scope of premium project heavy lift services with the appointment of Taiwan Wallem Transportation Co., Ltd. as its exclusive commercial and port agency representative within the region.
Established in 1903, the Wallem Group opened its doors in Taipei in 1994 and represents the very best in port and commercial agency services across Asia, with a presence and local reputation second to none. The Wallem Group is already delivering a strong performance for AAL in South Korea, after its appointment as the carrier’s exclusive agency representative there in 2022.
Christophe Grammare (pictured), AAL’s Managing Director, explained: “Taiwan is an important market within Asia and to our operations with strong exports of steel, yachts and engineered industrial project components to key trading partners like Australia, US, and Europe – all markets which we serve with regular services. We have had a solid local presence there for two decades, serving the local multipurpose cargo shipping community with a wide range of flexible ocean transportation solutions. These include scheduled liner operations, regular trade lane sailings and tramp services that connect the region with its trading partners.”
He added: “Wallem has already proved itself to be a reliable partner for AAL and has a strong reputation with, and knowledge of, the local Taiwanese shipping community as well as the breakbulk and heavy lift market in Taiwan and our ambitions to comprehensively grow this market are very much aligned. We are looking forward to working together in this region to enhance our commercial presence and penetrate the local market further with our range of highly competitive premium multipurpose and project heavy lift cargo solutions.”
METIS adds EU Emissions Trading Scheme to Total Emissions Management functionality
METIS Cyberspace Technology has added new functionality to its cloud-based Total Emissions Management solution that allows ship owners and operators to make best use of the EU Emissions Trading Scheme (ETS).
As well as supporting IMO’s Data Collection System metrics for a ship’s Average Efficiency Ratio and Carbon Intensity Indicator, and EU monitoring reporting and verification, the new capability means that METIS can help owners manage the complexities of carbon allowances.
Expanding to include maritime transport from next year, the EU-ETS will apply 100% for EU-EU voyages and 50% for EU-Non EU voyages. It aims to cut greenhouse gasses using a combination of emissions trading and emissions allowances for ships. Cargo and passenger ships of 5000 GT and above must account for emissions from January 1, 2024, in order to ‘surrender’ (or use) their first trading allowances by 30 September 2025. The ETS will also cover offshore ships from 2027.
To comply, shipping companies need to monitor emissions under a revised plan that has been assessed by a verified organisation and approved by the administering authority. Once per year, companies submit an emissions report for each ship and aggregated data into the ETS. The progressively more stringent scheme requires ships to surrender emissions allowances, starting at 40% of emissions in 2024, rising to 70% in 2026, and reaching 100% thereafter.
Capturing CO2 emissions data and reporting with the accuracy per voyage and cumulatively on which the ETS relies, METIS also allows users to establish the monetary value of equivalent allowances based on current EU carbon market rates. In addition to determining the number of allowances required, METIS will help to assign costs to the charterer or the manager based on the ‘polluter pays’ principle.
“Accurate data capture is crucial for ETS reporting, but METIS Total Emissions Management is also a comprehensive digital tool for emissions management that provides the framework for the predictive insights to help owners take evidence-based, effective decisions," said Eleni Polychronopoulou, CEO, METIS Cyberspace Technology. “The solution allows owners to bring emissions management into the day-to-day decision-making for optimising vessel performance.”
As a cloud-based solution, the METIS platform is also highly adaptable to changing market and regulatory needs of shipping, added Polychronopoulou. “Functionality can be continuously developed to add value for the end customer. Our expectation is that, as the ETS unfolds, customer feedback will stimulate further enhancements in functionality to reflect the realities of the scheme.”
Inditex partners with Maersk to reduce its maritime transport emissions
Inditex, parent company of fashion brands such as Zara and Massimo Dutti, has partnered with the freight group Maersk to reduce its global greenhouse gas (GHG) footprint from seaborne logistics by incorporating alternative fuels in all its inbound routes with the carrier. Through the ECO Delivery Ocean programme, Maersk replaces fossil fuels on its ships with green fuels like green methanol or second generation biodiesel based on waste feedstocks. This is expected to deliver an estimated reduction of more than 80% in GHG emissions compared to conventional sources.
With ECO Delivery Ocean, Maersk offers its customers the opportunity to handle transports completely with certified green fuels for a fixed cost. The corresponding greenhouse gas savings are confirmed to the customers with an externally verified certificate and these transports will be exempted from EU Emissions Trading System (ETS) charges by Maersk in the future.
This collaboration is a great example of how boosting innovative solutions with dedicated partners is key to fight climate change,” says Abel Lopez, Head of Import, Export and Transport at Inditex. “Through this joint initiative with Maersk, we are making significant strides in reducing emissions associated with our sea freight. This project aligns with our goal to reach net zero emissions in 2040 and contributes to scale alternative fuels with a significant reduced carbon footprint.”
“We are proud to have Inditex among our first customers who assign 100% of their Maersk ocean inbound cargo to our ECO Delivery product, which ensures a significant reduction of GHG emissions thanks to green fuels,” says Emilio de la Cruz, Managing Director of Maersk’s Area South West Europe. “We know Inditex since long as a very responsibly and sustainably thinking partner and customer and going all the way on their ocean cargo is good news for the environment and climate.”
Right now, Maersk experiences that the demand for the very low GHG emission product ECO Delivery is high and very dynamic. “A lot of customers are asking us for a solution to reduce their scope 3 emissions, and the first customers are buying this premium solution for their whole cargo under Maersk Bill of Lading now. We are happy to serve this demand with ECO Delivery on an instant basis”, Emilio de la Cruz adds.
Like Inditex, Maersk has the ambitious climate target to become a net zero company across all business areas until 2040. Besides using ECO Delivery for all its ocean cargo under Maersk care, Inditex is also boosting multimodal transport and is collaborating in a new rail solution pilot of Maersk, RENFE and Cepsa in the South of Spain which was launched this summer. These close collaborations are essential in order to deliver on our ambitious, mutual decarbonisation goals.
Leading UK maritime charity calls for mandatory port levy scheme to support welfare of seafarers
Leading maritime charity the Merchant navy Welfare board is calling on the UK Government to roll-out a mandatory port levy scheme across the country to provide sustainable welfare provision for millions of seafarers.
The umbrella charity for the UK Merchant Navy and Fishing Fleets, which represents 43 constituent charities and provides support to seafarers, fishers and their dependents, has written to Maritime Minister Baroness Vere of Norbiton outlining the need for a new scheme.
In its letter to the Minister, the MNWB says a levy paid by ships visiting each UK port should be re-invested into the cost of providing long-term welfare support for seafarers.
With only 8% of ports having a voluntary levy scheme in place, this falls significantly short in funding crucial welfare services including seafarer centres, volunteers, transport and connectivity for seafarers and fishers.
The call comes following the publication of the Board’s ‘UK Port Welfare Provision Report ‘arried out to establish the cost of welfare provision in UK ports.
The report was launched at the Board’s 75th anniversary event in Westminster yesterday (October 16), which was attended by parliamentarians, journalists, constituent members, MNWB ambassadors, Port Welfare Committee chairs and organisations from the wider maritime sector.
Research findings from the report show:
• Only 10 of the 120 major and minor ports (8%) have voluntary levy schemes in place – eight of which are fixed amounts and two are tonnage based.
• Charities are expected to spend £4.8million on port welfare provision, providing 44 seafarer centres, 372 staff and volunteers, 77 vehicles for seafarer transport and 39 MiFi units for onboard connectivity.
• The voluntary levies in place represent just 3-4% of the total funds required to sustain existing welfare provision.
• 61% of major and minor ports do not have a seafarers’ centre.
• Only 35% of the workforce is paid, the rest is made up of volunteers.
Stuart Rivers, the Chief Executive of the MNWB, said: “For 75 years, the MNWB has been at the forefront of working with maritime charities and organisations to ensure welfare services are available to all UK merchant seafarers and their dependents. Providing connectivity, transport and centres to millions of seafarers and fishers who spend months away from their friends and family is absolutely crucial to their welfare.
“But to continue this first-class support in the midst of charities facing increasing challenges to fundraising, a legislation of this kind whereby funding responsibility falls to those companies who employ seafarers, could save the welfare sector from crippling.
“Seafarers keep the global economy alive, and they are an asset to any shipowner. Let’s treat them as well as possible. Welfare is a matter of the heart, not the pocket.”
A number of other countries – Romania, Germany and New Zealand to name a few – have fully or majority funded schemes in place now. And dozens of other countries are working on levy schemes to provide sustainable funding for seafarers’ welfare.
Mr Rivers added: “The UK is currently falling behind. But a welfare levy of this kind is what the sector needs and would be a game changer for seafarers’ welfare in the UK. We want to drive welfare standards and demonstrate leadership in the global maritime industry.”
The full report can be accessed via the MNWB website.
Columbia Group launches Female Cadet Mentoring Programme to help recruit and retain more women in maritime
As part of its bid to attract more women into the maritime sector, Columbia Group has launched a mentoring programme aimed at female cadets.
Recognising that the industry is missing out on a great deal of female talent who could bring different perspectives and more ideas and innovation, the Group is underscoring its commitment to creating a more diverse workforce with the 12-month Female Cadet Mentoring Programme.
It hopes that the mentoring programme will not only attract more females onboard vessels, but help to retain them in the industry past cadetship, especially when faced with a number of career challenges such as the flexibility needed for juggling work and home life.
“We need to change the culture in the industry surrounding women and make it more viable for them to have a career in maritime, so that we can attract and widen the pool of talent that we draw from,” said programme leader Claudia Paschkewitz (pictured, left) Columbia Group’s Managing Director of Sustainability, Diversity & Inclusion.
“We hope that our new mentoring programme will provide the emotional support and encouragement that female cadets may need to make them feel comfortable and confident in their roles.”
The programme acknowledges evidence from a 2019 Solent University Report which highlights that mentoring schemes are also able to reduce costs related to health and safety, as well as decreasing staff turnover.
Columbia is drawing on the services of leading corporate wellbeing provider OneCare Solutions (OCS) for training of the programme’s mentors, who will be senior female colleagues based in different departments onshore. Each will be trained to deal with situations such as sexual harassment and bullying, and assigned to one female cadet in the fleet for their whole 12 months of sea service.
To ensure the success of its Cadetship Programme, Columbia Group is appealing for the support of mentors and captains alike and all captains of vessels in the fleet which have female cadets assigned to them will receive contact details for the cadets’ mentors prior to embarkation, thus encouraging communication between mentors and their mentees.
“Our mentors will provide a safe and supportive environment so cadets can seek advice or voice any concerns they may have,” explained Ms Paschkewitz.
“Through the Female Cadet Mentoring Programme, the cadets can develop the skills and knowledge to succeed in their careers and, one day, become leaders in the maritime industry themselves.”
WISTA calls for ‘less conversation, more action on DEI’
Ahead of the upcoming WISTA International Conference and AGM, in the following article WISTA International President, Elpi Petraki (pictured), outlines the linkage between diversity and sustainability to highlight why action – not words - is needed to implement systemic change.
When we talk about creating a sustainable future for the maritime industry, she writes, it’s important to remember that the definition of sustainability has more than one dimension.
As well as adopting solutions that reduce the impact of shipping on the environment, for example, shipping must sustain itself by attracting the next generation. Doing so means that we must understand that many millennials and Gen Z professionals assume diversity and protecting the environment are working principles, rather than aspirations.
The 2023 Deloitte Gen Z and Millennial Survey showed that many Gen Z and Millennials make career decisions based on their values and want to work for organisations where they feel empowered to drive change. While the cost of living is a serious concern for both generations, dealing with climate change is considered a ‘top three’ value. Again, while the survey found that satisfaction with employers efforts around diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) has improved since 2019, it is still cited as one of the reasons why survey respondents have turned down job offers.
Industries worldwide are engaged in reducing their environmental impacts, and the maritime sector is no exception. The International Maritime Organization’s (IMO) recently revised strategy to reduce greenhouse gas emissions included an enhanced common ambition to reach net-zero by 2050.
Encouragingly, the values of DEI that go hand in hand with changed attitudes on the environment are finally getting the attention they deserve in the maritime sector; DEI is now considered one of the top priorities for change – ranking alongside decarbonisation and digitalisation. All of these areas of focus are also creating new roles and opportunities in maritime which are helping to level the playing field between men and women, as both have the desired skills and experience.
A Global Outlook
While it is easy to focus on one’s own geography, shipping is a global business, where an understanding of the complexities of operations is essential, and different standards may apply on what represents ‘progress’ in different locations. Addressing challenges and opportunities on a global scale demands individual regions have the support and resources they need to implement genuine change.
Over the last few years, WISTA has continued to grow both in terms of its membership and geographical reach, and one region that has experienced considerable growth is Latin America. This growth has been especially welcome, given the dynamic rise of Latin America as a shipping and trading hub, across its network of international ports and through the inland waterways which contribute so much to both the regional and global economy.
Acknowledging the region’s importance in global shipping and trading, WISTA has chosen to host its Annual Conference and AGM in Montevideo, Uruguay from the 23 – 27 October. This will be the first time the conference has been held in the Southern Hemisphere and it will focus on the key shipping and trading activities that make Latin America such an essential part of the global economy, while also examining the industry’s journey towards a greener and more digital future, both within Latin America and beyond.
Supporting Women in Maritime Worldwide
DEI and the role of women in shipping and trading will naturally form a key part of the discussions later this month, with women becoming increasingly present and involved in the Latin American maritime industry. It is estimated that more than 25% of students in the regions Maritime Academies are women, and there are also a growing number of women in board level positions in port authorities and other maritime businesses.
In addition, to support the next generation of women seafarers, WISTA is sponsoring 15 women from the maritime academies to attend the conference. The funding which has been provided by the TK Foundation, will provide these women with the opportunity to meet other industry professionals and participate in the workshops and discussions taking place during the event.
Women currently still only make up 2% of the seafaring workforce and, as revealed by the IMO/WISTA Women in Maritime Survey, also only accounting for 29% of the overall workforce within the maritime industry.
These figures provide a stark reminder of why WISTA exists, and the continuing necessity for the work we do: we need more women in all roles and in all boardrooms. This does not detract from the progress that has been made, but only when diversity and inclusion are the starting point of discussions can we say that we have truly succeeded.
Achieving Change
While the primary purpose of the WISTA International Conference is to bring the industry together to discuss how to address the challenges that lie ahead, it is also an opportunity to share knowledge and provide examples of how change is being enacted.
The old cliché of “actions speak louder than words” has never been truer than today, and we are now at a point in both the DEI and sustainability issues where we need to move beyond discussions and start putting measures in places that will bring about change that is both impactful and systemic.
As the President of WISTA International, I urge organisations to involve and empower employees to drive change, to share the lessons that have been learned and remain open to new ideas and collaboration. We all have a role to play in securing the industry’s future, but without action, it will be impossible to achieve the change that is so urgently needed.
For more information and registration for this year’s AGM, visit the WISTA website.
Singapore's Berge Bulk unveils the world’s most powerful sailing cargo ship
Berge Bulk, one the world’s leading dry bulk ship owners, launches its Newcastlemax bulker, Berge Olympus, with four retrofitted BARTech WindWings by Yara Marine Technologies. The WindWings installation is part of Berge Bulk’s ambition to become carbon neutral by 2025 and marks the Berge Olympus as the world’s most powerful sailing cargo ship.
With four WindWings installed, each possessing an aerodynamic span of 37.5 metres height and 20 metres width, the Berge Olympus will save 6 tonnes of fuel per day on an average worldwide route and, in the process, reduce CO2 emissions by approximately 19.5 tonnes per day. With these fuel savings and CO2 reductions, Berge Bulk is evaluating the potential of installing WindWings on more of its vessels that trade on routes with favourable wind conditions.
Berge Bulk's WindWings project is a testament to its commitment to lead the way towards a zero-carbon future while enhancing vessel efficiency. This initiative aligns with the new IMO goals, to reach net-zero GHG emissions from international shipping by or around, i.e., close to 2050, as well as indicative checkpoints for international shipping to reach net-zero GHG emissions for 2030 (by at least 20%, striving for 30%) and 2040 (by at least 70%, striving for 80%).
Contributing to this mission, Berge Bulk’s WindWings project reflects its dedication to environmental sustainability and technological advancement.
In addition to the installation of the WindWings, Berge Olympus has been retrofitted with a shaft generator system. The shaft generator is driven by the main engine to supply electric power to the vessel, thus saving fuel and reducing emissions. With a 1MW capacity, it is sized to eliminate the need to operate auxiliary engines while at sea. This installation is in itself ground-breaking and concludes a program that saw multiple vessels retrofitted with the technology.
As part of the global effort to reach future decarbonisation goals, Berge Bulk is forging a trail to carbon neutrality by 2025 through safe, efficient and sustainable shipping. To achieve this milestone, Berge Bulk has deployed a four-pillar decarbonisation plan that focuses on improving fleet efficiency, leveraging the latest maritime technology, piloting new fuels and investing in carbon capture, Berge Bulk calls it the Marshall Plan. Berge Bulk’s adoption of WindWings – the culmination of years of research by naval architect BAR Technologies – highlights the clear opportunity for vessel owners to swiftly retrofit new technologies to make a rapid and profound difference to the climate impact of their fleet.
James Marshall, Chief Executive Officer, Berge Bulk concluded: “At Berge Bulk, we are constantly striving to enhance our efficiency and reduce the environmental impact of our existing fleet. From 2008 until today, we have achieved a remarkable 46% reduction in our CO2 emissions per tonne mile, already surpassing the 2030 IMO target for reducing carbon emissions intensity. There’s still so much to do as we accelerate the transition to new fuel in the zero-carbon future. That is why we are proud to partner with BAR Technologies and Yara Marine Technologies to pioneer this WindWing system. The Berge Olympus is a testament to innovation and sustainability.”
John Cooper, Chief Executive Officer, BAR Technologies said: “We’re immensely proud to be spearheading wind-assisted propulsion through the development of WindWings and through our shared vision with Berge Bulk to launch the world’s most powerful sailing cargo ship. We cannot afford to stand still in developing sustainable solutions for the shipping industry. We believe there is more to be done to harness wind power and push shipping into a greener, and more efficient era. To that end, we are already working on superior hydrodynamics and new types of accommodation blocks with several vessel designers.”
Thomas Koniordos, Chief Executive Officer, Yara Marine Technologies said: “Wind-assisted propulsion has the potential to offer immediate long-term solutions for shipping’s pathway to Net Zero. We are proud to work with trusted partners such as Berge Bulk and ensure that this technology can be scaled and manufactured to shipping’s high standards, ensuring a robust and resilient supply chain that can meet industry demand.”
GenPro Blue Day brings together expert speakers for sustainability panel
Following close on the heels of Cyprus Maritime Week, maritime and commercial procurement company GP General Procurement Company Limited (GenPro) held its annual Blue Day Event in Limassol, Cyprus under the auspices of the Cyprus Shipping Deputy Ministry. The Blue Day and related Green Day events were conceived to provide a platform for thought leaders to meet and discuss current maritime sustainability topics.
Entitled ‘Navigating the Blue Future - Elevating the maritime industry through sustainability’, the event held on 12 October featured a panel discussion on the importance of sustainability benchmarking in today’s Maritime supply chain. The panel discussion highlighted the role supply chains must play in the road to decarbonisation, the importance of utilising data/metrics data, the necessity of cross sector collaborations and the need for government and international regulatory support.
The event, which was attended by 80+ people as well as 100 participating online, was opened by Her Excellency The Cyprus Shipping Deputy, Minister Marina Hadjimanolis, who spoke of “how the path to a sustainable blue future is undeniably challenging, but it is also a path of immense opportunity and potential.” She further added that “By aligning our industry with global sustainability goals, we are not merely navigating our future, we are actively shaping it.”
This was followed by a panel discussion led by guest moderator Irene Loucaides, Managing Director of Grow Sustainability Consulting. She was joined by panellists: Dr. Stelios Himonas, Secretary General, Cyprus Shipping Deputy Ministry; Alexandros Josephides, Deputy Director General/Marine Manager, Cyprus Shipping Chamber; Susan Koefoed, CEO and Chair, IMPA; and Gina Panayiotou, ESG Manager, West P&I.
Under debate during the discussion were a range of current issues including:
• What does sustainable added-value look like for ship owners and managers?
• In what ways do technology, data analytics, and innovation contribute to the successful implementation and monitoring of sustainability initiatives?
• How can a structured assessment of maritime suppliers drive global sustainability?
• In what ways can a sustainability standard foster international cooperation?
In her closing remarks, GenPro’s Managing Director Maria Theodosiou, stated, “Now we need to ask our stakeholders, policy makers and those who have already achieved a certain maturity in the sustainability process to take responsibility and lead in changing the culture.”
She concluded by saying, “The exploration of new principles and the embrace of diverse perspectives is essential. Our challenges, just like our solutions, are universal. So we need to address this collectively.”
“K” Line conducts Emergency Response Exercise
On October 12th, an Emergency Response Exercise was carried out by “K” Line as a part of training of optimum emergency response prepared for any major maritime accidents.
The scenario of the exercise saw an LNG vessel owned by a ”K” Line subsidiary run aground in Tokyo Bay while attempting to avoid a fishing vessel suddenly approaching in Uraga Channel. The ensuing emergency response process set up a crisis-management headquarters upon receiving the incident report, established a communication channel with the ship management company and conducted a mock press conference at the end of the exercise.
“K” Line points out that contact procedures including with online tools were also confirmed, and the mock press conference included journalists asking many questions, making for a tense atmosphere as if it were a real incident.
With growing interest in safety and environmental impact reduction worldwide, “K” Line feels such Emergency Response Exercises will help prepare it for any unexpected circumstances, while the company continues its commitment to providing industry-leading safe and optimal services for the benefit of its customers.
Alpha Ori and Danelec partner to fast-track maritime digitalization with High Frequency, High Quality (HFHQ) data
Maritime data collection solutions provider Danelec is pleased to announce the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Alpha Ori Technologies (AOT). AOT is a key player in the research, development, and commercialization of digital technology solutions for the maritime industry, focusing on accelerating digitalization for reduction in emissions, operational improvements, and enhanced safety.
The purpose of the MoU is to explore a potential strategic partnership, aiming to offer collaborative vessel data-based services to maritime customers. The envisioned solution revolves around onboarding platforms for data collection and delivery, with shore visualization and analytical services forming the core components. This joint effort between Danelec and AOT is designed to empower operational organizations in providing and supporting high-quality services related to maritime safety, navigation optimization, and predictive maintenance.
The scope of the partnership is rooted in the goal to deliver a fully integrated solution, leveraging Danelec's data and server infrastructure along with AOT's SMARTSHIP™ software applications. The ultimate objective is to establish seamless onboard data collection, transmitting it to a cloud infrastructure for analysis of vessel OT data.
The signing took place in late September after which Casper Jensen, CEO of Danelec, and Bala Sankaran, Co-CEO at Alpha Ori Technologies both expressed their enthusiasm for the partnership.
Commenting on the MoU, Casper Jensen, CEO at Danelec says: “At Danelec, we firmly believe that digitalization holds the key to confronting the key challenges of sustainability, productivity, and transparency, and further enhance safety within the maritime industry. As we share this belief with Alpha Ori Technologies, we see great potential in leveraging the synergies of our strong capabilities within data capturing and ship performance and Alpha Ori’s ditto within analysis and digital solutions to deliver new services that will enable ship owners to optimize their operations and accelerate the industry’s route to net zero.”
Bala Sankaran, Co-CEO at Alpha Ori Technologies follows up: “By employing state-of-the-art digital solutions to assist our maritime customers in operating their businesses predictably, optimizing cost inefficiencies, and generating new business models with opportunities for revenue creation, we aim to enable our customers to operate as a digital enterprise. Harnessing the power of data collected through Danelec’s infrastructure, we believe we can enhance operational efficiency & achieve highest levels of safety on board ships.”
Danelec and AOT believe this MoU will enhance their respective strengths and leverage their combined expertise. Together, they aim to bring digital solutions to the maritime market, establishing a solid foundation for the industry's digital transformation.
Alba Tankers choose Seaber to reduce emissions by optimizing chartering processes and maximizing fleet utilization
Seaber.io, the Finnish maritime technology company, has announced a cooperation with Alba Tankers, who commercially operate chemical and oil tankers in the area of North Europe-West Mediterranean. Headquartered in Denmark, their chartering and commercial team is based in Gothenburg, Sweden. With the help of Seaber’s solution Alba Tankers will optimize chartering and scheduling processes leading to increased efficiency as well as reduced emissions.
Alba Tankers mainly focuses on vessels below 20,000 DWT, trading petroleum products, chemicals and vegetable oils with a fleet of 20 vessels. Their mission is to operate the vessels with a passion for safety, environment, quality and economy exceeding the expectations of clients, employees and society.
Commercial operators like Alba Tankers use the Seaber solution for maximizing fleet TCE by supercharging chartering and scheduling functions and also estimate the impact of EU ETS, which is coming into force starting in 2024.
Alba Tankers is thrilled to start using the Seaber solution: “As any tanker company we aim to make sure we operate as environmentally friendly as possible. With current and emerging emission regulations the whole planning process becomes more complex. With Seaber’s software our team can quickly make decisions by following KPIs and compare multiple scenarios in no time.” says Håkan Kalmerlind (pictured, left), Head of Commercial Operations at Alba Tankers.
Seaber is uniquely positioned to digitally transform the shipping industry and bring down its environmental impact. Both shipowners and charterers benefit from Seaber’s web-based application allowing them to maximize efficiencies in planning and scheduling. In addition to single-cargo voyages, Seaber supports multi-parcel and multi-port voyages. The technology, based on a modern tech stack, integrates seamlessly with existing software solutions such as Voyage Management Systems and ERPs.
Sebastian Sjöberg (pictured, right), CEO and Co-founder of Seaber is excited about the cooperation with Alba Tankers: “One of Alba’s objectives is to use innovative technology to further improve efficiency and reduce emissions. This is what inspires the whole Seaber team to further develop our solution jointly with our customers.”
MarTrust appoints new CEO to drive next phase of growth in maritime payments market
In a strategic move to bolster its position in the maritime payments sector, MarTrust – the maritime payments provider - is set to undergo a renewed phase of development and expansion. Over the past years, under the leadership of Domenico Carlucci and with the steadfast support of the Marcura Board, MarTrust has become a prominent fintech entity, managing over $12bn payments annually.
Recognising the vast opportunities and challenges in the ever-evolving maritime payments market, MarTrust announces the appointment of Stuart Gregory as CEO. Stuart brings a wealth of fintech expertise, having been instrumental in building and scaling Wise Business through to its successful public listing in London. Stuart will be based in London and report directly to Jens Poulsen, Group CEO of Marcura.
Jens Poulsen comments: “We are thrilled to welcome Stuart as part of our team, where he will take the helm during our upcoming crucial phase of growth. Stuart brings invaluable fintech expertise to the table, which will build on the remarkable strides MarTrust has already made.
“We are seeing very strong adoption as customers demand solutions that grasp the intricacies of the maritime industry, along with a deep understanding of customer requirements, compliance issues, and the distinctive challenges that come with being a maritime services provider. We eagerly anticipate the exciting expansion and enhancement of our product offerings to serve our customers better.
Stuart Gregory comments: "I'm delighted to join MarTrust. The opportunity to further transform maritime payments is huge, and demand from customers and seafarers is high. MarTrust has a robust platform and an exceptional team; my role will be to drive this next phase of growth and even more deeply address our customers’ maritime payments needs."
Domenico Carlucci, who has successfully led MarTrust to its current position, will continue to play an essential role in the company's future. He will refocus his energies on market strategy, key accounts, and partnerships.
"I want to thank Domenico for his exceptional contribution and leadership," said Jens Poulsen. "This strategic appointment is not just an extension but an enhancement of our leadership capabilities. We're thrilled to have both Domenico and Stuart collaborate to leverage the unique strengths of maritime payments and fintech."
Cyber risk report says shipping remains ‘easy target’, paying an average $3.2m In cyberattacks
New research has found that the maritime industry remains an "easy target" for cybercriminals, and that the cost of attacks and demand for ransom payments across the sector have skyrocketed over the past 12 months.
The report, which was produced by global, sector-focused law firm HFW and maritime cyber security company CyberOwl, reveals that the average cyberattack in the maritime industry now ends up costing the target organisation US$550,000 – up from US$182,000 in 2022.
It also shows that demands for ransom have increased by more than 350%, with the average ransom payment now US$3.2m – up from US$3.1m last year.
The report is based on a survey of more than 150 industry professionals – including C-suite leaders, cyber security experts, seafarers, shoreside managers, and suppliers – and reveals significant gaps in cyber risk management that exist across shipping organisations and the wider supply chain, despite progress made by IMO 2021.
The research was carried out by the maritime technology research agency Thetius.
Key findings include that the financial cost of a maritime cyberattack can be extreme: they now end up costing the target organisation US$550,000 on average (an increase of 200% from 2022); ransom demands have increased by more than 350% over the past 12 months, with the average ransom payment now US$3.2 million (up from US$3.1m in 2022); 24% of the victims of cyberattacks were tricked into transferring funds to criminal organisations.
Despite these eye-watering costs, most shipping organisations significantly under-invest in cyber security management: a third spend less than US$100,000 per year; 25% of survey respondents said their organisation does not have insurance to cover cyber risk.
Although overall levels of preparedness seem to be improving:
80% of survey respondents understand what actions would be required of them in the event of a cyber security incident (up from 74% in 2022) and 64% said their organisation has cyber risk management procedures for dealing with suppliers (up from 55% in 2022).
Tom Walters, Partner, HFW commented: "Our findings show that while maritime cyber security has improved, the industry remains an easy target. Shipping organisations are being subject to more cyberattacks than ever before, and the cost of attacks and demand for ransom payments have skyrocketed. And as the use of technology continues to increase across all aspects of shipping – from ship networks to offshore installations and shoreside control centres – so does the potential for cybersecurity breaches.
"Maritime operational technology and fleet operations management are now almost entirely digital, meaning that a cyberattack could compromise anything from vessel communication systems and navigation suites to the systems managing ballast water, cargo management, and engine monitoring and control. Failure of any of those systems could result in a vessel being stranded and potentially grounded, and we saw from the Ever Given the impact that can have on global supply chains. This is a critical issue for all parties involved in the shipping sector, and it's clear that the industry has to do more to protect itself against cyberattacks."
Daniel Ng, CEO, CyberOwl: said: "The good news is that the conversation on vessel cyber risk management has clearly shifted away from the 'why' towards the 'how'. There is less scepticism about the need to manage the risk, more thoughtfulness on how best to spend each dollar in shoring up defences.
"The challenge for the change agents in shipping is that they are dealing with new risks in a new domain under sector-specific constraints. All of this in an environment where shipping companies are still too secretive to share benchmarks and best practice widely. The sector must make the most of the specialist expertise available. And those with specialist maritime cyber security knowledge must do more to share knowledge of risks and best practice.
"What works in other sectors may not work in shipping. And applying a generic approach could lead to expensive wastage."
Nick Chubb, Managing Director, Thetius commented: "Our research shows that the industry has improved dramatically in a short space of time. But it also shows that cybercriminals are evolving faster. The costs of cyber-attacks are growing. The impact that can be created in the global supply chain by exploiting a single easy target means the entire maritime industry needs to raise the bar."
Republic of the Marshall Islands removed from EU List of non-cooperative jurisdictions
The Republic of the Marshall Islands (RMI) welcomes the decision by the European Union’s (EU’s) Economic and Financial Affairs Council (ECOFIN) to remove it from the EU list of non-cooperative jurisdictions for tax purposes. At a meeting of the EU Code of Conduct Group on 3 October, Member States reviewed and positively assessed the RMI’s enforcement of the substance requirements, leading to today’s decision.
The RMI has engaged in an open, transparent dialogue with the EU and made every effort to fully clarify, enact, follow-up, and monitor the implementation of its commitments to the EU.
“We are extremely pleased to hear that the Marshall Islands’ enhanced enforcement measures have been met positively by the EU,” said RMI Minister of Finance Casten Nemra. “We take this opportunity to reiterate that the Marshall Islands unequivocally commits to cooperating with the EU and fully aligning with the EU on economic substance standards,” he continued.
The RMI is renowned for its modern corporate registry and has been the jurisdiction of choice for publicly traded shipping entities while its maritime registry is consistently held in high regard worldwide. Not only is the RMI whitelisted with the Paris and Tokyo Memorandums of Understanding, but it has also maintained Qualship 21 status with the United States Coast Guard for 19 consecutive years, which is unprecedented. With more than 5,500 vessels totalling over 197 million gross tons, the RMI holds the youngest fleet in age overall and is the world’s largest fleet for liquefied natural gas carriers.
The RMI places great importance on compliance with international standards of corporate governance and taxation and will continue its engagement with the EU and other international institutions to ensure these standards are upheld.
UAB-Online secures strategic investment from First Dutch in collaboration with Platform Zero to ignite growth and innovation
UAB-Online, a pioneering player in the maritime technology sector, has announced a significant infusion of capital through strategic investment from First Dutch, in partnership with Platform Zero. This collaboration marks a pivotal moment for UAB-Online as it positions itself as a global leader in the digital transformation of the sea and inland shipping industry, with a strong emphasis on optimising operations and sustainability.
UAB-Online believes that the shipping industry requires a fundamental shift towards standardisation and digitalisation of processes to significantly reduce inefficiencies, enhance safety measures, and combat greenhouse gas emissions effectively. It is this shared vision for a more sustainable and technologically advanced maritime sector that makes the partnership with First Dutch and Platform Zero such a natural fit.
With this sizeable capital infusion, UAB-Online is adequately positioned to accelerate global expansion throughout Europe, the Middle East, Asia, and North America, and continue advancing the product and scaling the organisation, reaffirming its position as a pioneering force in the digital transformation of maritime operations.
First Dutch, who will be investing in UAB-Online through its early-stage investment arm First Dutch Ventures, is spearheaded by entrepreneur Peter Goedvolk (pictured, centre). It is dedicated to supporting groundbreaking solutions and scaling existing sustainable alternatives and is convinced that UAB-Online’s software will play a pivotal role in improving communications, streamlining processes, and reducing manual dependencies, thereby leading to safer, more efficient and more sustainable terminal operations.
Platform Zero, founded by Auke Ferwerda and Mare Straetmans, is known for its commitment to addressing climate challenges through scaling of technology ventures, particularly within the shipping sector. Mr. Ferwerda (pictured, right) expressed his enthusiasm for the partnership, stating: "We are very proud to partner with the First Dutch team to invest in UAB-Online. Shipping is a crucial part of our climate challenges.
“We believe UAB-Online is a global leader in bringing digital solutions to the shipping sector that optimise operations and sustainability. This sector needs to move digitally and more sustainably. That's why we are proud that Platform Zero and First Dutch Ventures will be involved as strategic partners for accelerating the growth of UAB-Online!"
UAB-Online's CEO Hans Bobeldijk (pictured, left) expressed gratitude for the investments, stating: "We are excited to welcome First Dutch and Platform Zero as strategic partners in our journey. Their financial support, expertise, and extensive networks will play a pivotal role in our mission to drive digitalization and sustainability in the maritime industry. As we grow, we can build an ecosystem that helps our existing and future customers streamline their operations, which will contribute to achieving the maritime industry’s decarbonisation goals.”
Adds Mr. Bobeldijk: “What really excites us is the opportunity to work with a maritime energy leader like First Dutch, which opens a wider network of expertise to us as we innovate and improve. Likewise, we are thrilled to work alongside Platform Zero, with whom we share a dedication to addressing climate change."
Capesize order book slips to 5% of fleet as contracting falls
At the start of October, the capesize order book was at 20 million DWT, a mere 5% of the capesize fleet. The contracting of newbuild capesize ships has gradually decreased since its peak in 2013 and only 5 million DWT were contracted so far in 2023, down 4% y/y. Low freight rates paired with a young fleet are keeping the order book small,” says Filipe Gouveia, Shipping Analyst at BIMCO.
Contracting of newbuild ships typically increases following periods of high freight rates. For capesizes, freight rates depend heavily on China, as 63% of their cargoes have China as their destination. Capesize ships are the largest in the dry bulk fleet and transport most of the world’s iron ore.
2021 was the most recent year when freight rates surged, causing newbuilding contracting to reach 17 million DWT. However, in 2022 contracting fell 52% as rates slipped due to Covid lockdowns and weaker Chinese demand. In the first three quarters of 2023, freight rates and contracting remained low, as China’s economic recovery was weaker than foreseen, and the real estate crisis remained unresolved.
“Capesize deliveries are estimated to reach 11 million DWT in 2023, 37% below the 5-year average, and to further decrease to 7 million DWT in both 2024 and 2025. This low fleet growth could offer some support to capesize freight rates over the short- to medium-term and as result support a recovery in contracting,” says Gouveia.
On top of the low freight rates, the lower need for immediate fleet renewal among capesizes may also explain the smaller orderbook. The average capesize ship is two years younger than the average bulk carrier and only 15% of capesize ships, or 54 million DWT, are older than 14 years.
Decarbonisation is an important force driving fleet renewal. While shipowners may opt to retrofit younger ships, they may choose to replace older inefficient ships. For capesizes, the transition to alternative fuels may be easier than for smaller segments, since they operate in a reduced number of trade lanes. This makes it easier to ensure the supply of the necessary fuels in relevant ports.
“Capesizes could emerge as frontrunners in the adoption of alternative fuels among bulk carriers, even though they are the youngest fleet. 55% of their order book is for ships which are either capable or ready to run on LNG, methanol or ammonia, a much higher share than the 17% average for the entire dry bulk order book,” says Gouveia.
Trelleborg gears up to host Inaugural Port Management and Navigation Seminar at QE2 Hotel in Dubai
Trelleborg Marine and Infrastructure has announced the program for its inaugural Port Management and Navigation Seminar that will be held at the iconic QE2 Hotel in Dubai, United Arab Emirates on December 12-13 2023.
The two-day event will bring together experts from around the world to discuss the latest developments in port management and navigation. It will address the complexities facing the port sector, including managing larger vessels, reducing carbon emissions, understanding effects of digitalization, using real-time data, and best practices for enhancing safety and security within ports, harbours and waterways.
Paul Marks, Head of UK Data Partnerships at the UK Hydrographic Office will open the session as the 2023 keynote speaker. Marks will be sharing the UKHO’s global perspectives on the next generation of navigation solutions, data standardization and the role that ports play in the blue economy. He will be followed by Captain Paul O’Regan, International Harbour Masters’ Association President, who will explore both the challenges and opportunities for harbour masters as ports evolve, and Captain Jonathon Pearce of OMC International, who will cover the role of technology in increasing port sustainability.
“We’re delighted to be hosting an event of this scale which is dedicated to addressing the latest developments in port management and marine navigation, which is a first for Trelleborg,” says Richard Hepworth, Business Unit President, Trelleborg Marine and Infrastructure.
“By working across the multiple touchpoints of ports’ day-to-day operations, Trelleborg is uniquely positioned to recognize the breadth of drivers that are shaping port development and the impact that these are having on operations in developing markets. We are immersed in working with customers to unlock the opportunities presented by new digital technologies and navigation solutions as well as leveraging regulations and supporting innovations to improve sustainability and safety credentials. This has inspired us to bring thought leaders and senior industry specialists together to enable port authorities, port operators, consultants, harbour masters and pilots to gain an in-depth understanding of the issues at hand as well as sharing insights on best practices and emerging solutions. As such, we are very much looking forward to a successful two days of networking and debate.”
The afternoon of the first day will include a look at evolutions in lifejacket technology, as well as real-time environmental monitoring and IMO regulatory developments, followed by a networking reception and dinner in the evening on the QE2 Yacht Club Terrace.
The second day will focus heavily on navigation technology developments and navigational products, including a presentation by Captain Jason Ledet of NOBRA, as well as accident prevention and clean maritime transport, and smart and autonomous ports. Discussions will conclude with an optional navigational aids workshop focusing on Portable Pilot Unit (PPU) and pilotage software.
Industry professionals looking to gain insights into how the latest technological advances will help future-proof port operations and secure competitive advantage across the Middle East, South Asia and Africa are being encouraged to register early to secure places.
ClassNK releases white paper on ‘Understanding the 2023 IMO GHG Strategy’
ClassNK has released a white paper ‘Pathway to Zero-Emission in International Shipping – Understanding the 2023 IMO GHG Strategy’.
In July 2023, the IMO adopted the ‘2023 IMO Strategy on Reduction of GHG Emissions from Ships’, which includes goals such as achieving net-zero GHG emissions by or around 2050. While the strategy sets numerical targets for reducing GHG emissions as well as indicative checkpoints, the maritime industry has not yet reached a common understanding of what these numerical targets mean for international shipping.
In light of this situation, ClassNK has published the white paper in order to encourage broad discussions among stakeholders and accelerate efforts toward decarbonization.
The white paper analyses the allowable life cycle GHG emissions for international shipping and the required introduction amount of zero-emission fuels and zero-emission ships to achieve the targets and indicative checkpoints in the 2023 IMO GHG Strategy, including comparisons with the current situation.
ClassNK continues to support efforts to reduce GHG emissions by providing useful information for all stakeholders.
The white paper is available for download on the ClassNK website.
New Kale survey reveals nearly a third of ports worldwide ‘unprepared’ for IMO’s Maritime Single Window mandate
Kale Logistics Solutions has published a readiness survey of 200 ports that revealed 30 percent are not prepared to adopt the IMO’s Maritime Single Window (MSW) mandate, which becomes compulsory worldwide from 1st of January 2024.
Kale highlighted the urgency for the industry to speed up its digital transformation as it unveiled the survey results, which also cited high implementation costs, long timelines, and varying levels of digital readiness as leading factors hindering regulatory compliance.
The study involved ports located throughout the Asia Pacific, Middle East, Europe, Africa, North America, and South America, and emphasised that Port Community Systems embedded with an MSW are integral to achieving the true potential of a port.
“The purpose of this study was to identify the tangible benefits the maritime industry can achieve with technology intervention, and the results showed potential savings of up to USD50 billion annually by using MSW platforms,” said Vineet Malhotra (pictured), Co-Founder and Director, Kale Logistics Solutions.
“However, these benefits are subject to 100 percent adoption of the MSW, and our report reveals that ports are encountering a number of barriers that hinder this digitalisation.
“The MSW concept has the potential to revolutionise the international shipping industry.”
MSW platforms bring major sustainability benefits by digitising documentation, streamlining processes, and improving information exchange, resulting in reduced paper usage and more efficient vessel management, ultimately lowering emissions and environmental impact.
On average 12 agencies collaborate on one ship-shore operation, and the MSW simplifies documentary procedures between all actors involved and ensures information only needs to be inputted once.
Kale’s MSW platform is compliant with IMO standards and enables information and documentation to be transferred electronically between maritime and port stakeholders, which will become a compulsory requirement from the start of 2024.
“The importance of this study will sow the seed for a digital revolution in the maritime industry worldwide, demonstrating how digitisation can not only bring order to the ongoing chaotic operations in the industry but also achieve significant sustainability goals in the long run,” added Malhotra.
The report was released by Shyam Jagannathan, Director General of Shipping, Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways, Government of India, at the Global Maritime India Summit in Mumbai, India.
Kongsberg delivers 23% CO2 emissions cut for Norwegian coastal ship operator
Kongsberg Maritime has delivered a 23% cut in CO2 emissions on the 121-metre passenger vessel MS Richard With, owned by Hurtigruten, a coastal ship operator and adventure travel company.
The vessel finished an extensive refit last summer using Kongsberg Maritime engineering and technology and has now completed its first year back in service.
Last year, Kongsberg Maritime partnered with Myklebust Verft shipyard to convert three Hurtigruten ships to hybrid technology, promising reduced emissions and quieter operations. The MS Richard With, built in 1993, was the first of three ships to be relaunched, in August last year. The second ship MS Kong Harald returned to service in May, and the final ship, MS Nordlys will be complete in 2025.
The project is one of the largest of its kind in Europe, with an investment value of approximately €100 million.
“We have built our last fossil fuel ship for the Norwegian Coastal Express,”said Hurtigruten Coastal Express CEO Hedda Felin. “We had the opportunity to upgrade the fleet and give the ships the best of today’s technology. Plus, it’s more environmentally friendly to retrofit a vessel than to scrap and build a new one.”
The refit programme for MS Richard With included installation of two hybrid shaft generators, two SaveEnergy 1.120kWh lithium-ion batteries and two Bergen B33:45V engines. It also has new tunnel thruster motors, a retractable azimuth thruster, and controllable pitch propeller blades, plus digital management systems.
“We can do the full turnover of a vessel in four or five months. An entirely new build takes much longer,” said Geir Oscar Løseth, Kongsberg Maritime’s Vice President of Sales Aftermarket Advanced Offerings.
“The vessel is also safer and smoother in the water. It gives the crew several layers of reassurance. They can operate on full battery, zero emission operation; they can run on auxiliary engines and they can run on main engines. So, there’s a high level of safety that meets the new requirements for lower-emission travel along the coast.”
Ship owners and operators are working to deal with IMO regulations on emissions reduction, particularly for active vessels.
“Our role is going to be to guide customers through this transition, with advisory services as well as the products and solutions that will make sure regulations are met. But we won’t do that simply by coming up with new products and solutions. We also need to look into existing fleets,”said Lisa Edvardsen Haugan, president of Kongsberg Maritime.
Marlink renews agreement with Intelsat to deliver high throughput global VSAT capacity
Smart network and digital solutions provider Marlink has renewed its agreement with Intelsat for supply of next-generation Ku-band capacity.
Marlink will deliver the capacity to users within its hybrid digital network, available globally to customers across maritime, energy and enterprise sectors. The agreement includes the future use of satellites with a software-defined operating system, improving precision of signal delivery and a highly stable quality of service.
The agreement covers global distribution of capacity within the network provided by Marlink and joint development initiatives to prepare users for software-defined satellite (SDS) services. The Marlink network spans all orbits and available frequencies enabling customers to increase the possibilities of their digitalisation strategies.
Marlink will ensure the contracted capacity delivers digital enablement benefits to multiple segments requiring high throughput services, including merchant shipping, cruise and ferry and offshore installations by combining multiple networks into one unified solution, maximising throughput combined with guaranteed service availability and uptime.
“We are delighted to extend our close and long-standing agreement with Intelsat which enables us to provide our clients with predictability and quality within our smart hybrid network,” said Erik Ceuppens (pictured, right), Chief Executive Officer, Marlink. “This agreement fully reflects the Marlink philosophy that a blended network of the best available services, tailored to customer needs and designed for specific applications is required by today’s users.”
"This agreement marks yet another milestone in our long-term partnership with Marlink, enabling us to further extend resilient, high-throughput connectivity to ship owners and operators across maritime sectors," said Mike DeMarco (pictured, left), Chief Commercial Officer, Intelsat.
"The flexibility and reliability of Intelsat’s multi-layered global satellite network and ground infrastructure, combined with Marlink’s diverse portfolio of communications solutions, ensures a truly seamless connectivity experience and peace-of-mind, even in the most remote locations at sea.”
DP World signs first manufacturing tenants for Thames Freeport
DP World today announced its first new tenants at its London Gateway Logistics Park, part of the Thames Freeport with two manufacturers that have chosen to invest in the site and create jobs in a significant expansion of their UK operations.
Thames Freeport is a once-in-a-generation opportunity to stimulate trade, drive innovation, support energy transition, and transform the lives of people in London and the boroughs to its east.
Ranson, a Belgian food and catering products business, and Destiny Entertainments, which imports and modifies audio and video products, will move to the Freeport in Q1 2024. Creating hubs for manufacturing and innovation was a central reason for the Government’s introduction of the flagship policy two years ago.
By locating at London Gateway Logistics Park, which is a part of DP World’s end-to-end logistics network, the companies will benefit from proximity to Europe's largest and most economically important consumer market, with 18 million people on its doorstep. Being part of Thames Freeport also brings unrivalled global connectivity to 130 ports in over 65 countries and the option to utilise the freeport’s customs procedures.
Oliver Treneman, Vice President, Park Development at DP World, said: “The location of Ranson and Destiny Entertainments at London Gateway is another milestone for DP World and Thames Freeport. Our port-centric Logistics Park forms a core part of our integrated end-to-end approach, providing supply chain solutions such as port-to-park and park-to-port services, together with outstanding road links and access to an adjacent rail terminal.”
“The combination of shovel-ready infrastructure and highly engaged local authorities reduces the time, cost and complexity of establishing operations on site, making it the ideal location for value added manufacturing. We are committed to creating the right environment for all tenants to grow and bring jobs, skills and new opportunities to Thurrock and the wider regional economy.”
Bruno Ranson, Chief Executive Officer, Ranson Group, said: “We are very excited to be relocating to London Gateway in the near-future and becoming an active part of an energetic Freeport. We know that this will open up many more opportunities for our company and enable us to improve and increase the trading possibilities with partners on both sides of the water for many years to come.”
Mark Purchase, Director, Destiny Entertainments, said: “Destiny's move to London Gateway is game changing for our business. Not only because of the new warehouse facility, but all the infrastructure around it. It's a significant leap from our current position and the advantages it brings will enable rapid growth and better service for our customers.”
The two units – which will make up ‘The Campus’ site – will have a combined total of more than 100,000 sq. ft. When complete, The Campus will be the most sustainable site of its kind in the UK, having been awarded an advanced BREEAM ‘Outstanding’ rating, building on DP World winning ‘Sustainability Company of the Year’ at Multimodal 2023.
In addition to its UK hubs at London Gateway and Southampton, DP World’s offer includes logistics, forwarding and European transport capabilities, all of which are being integrated into the company’s global network. Operating in 78 countries, DP World handles 10 per cent of world trade.
Inmarsat Maritime Safety team wins IMRF Award for Innovation and Technology in Maritime Search and Rescue
Inmarsat Maritime, a Viasat business, has won the 2023 International Maritime Rescue Federation (IMRF) Award for Innovation and Technology in Maritime Search and Rescue after a highly respected judging panel led by former IMRF Chair Michael Vlasto selected its entry from a shortlist of 10 individuals and organisations.
Acknowledging “volunteer and professional search-and-rescue (SAR) personnel from around the world”, the prestigious award highlights “those who have shown excellence in their field, developed innovative technology and equipment, or acted as a role model to inspire others”.
Ben Palmer, President, Inmarsat Maritime, said “The Inmarsat Maritime Safety team works tirelessly to ensure that global satellite SAR capabilities are maintained to a standard above and beyond what is expected by the International Maritime Organization, and this award is testament to those efforts. As the safety challenges facing shipping continue to evolve, I have full faith in my colleagues’ ability to help drive maritime safety standards to new levels through a combination of technology, training, and expert support.”
The Inmarsat Maritime Safety team design and develop services to support SAR operations, such as the recently launched RescueNET, which delivers fast, reliable, and approved SAR communications from ship to shore, from shore to ship, and between maritime rescue coordination centres (MRCCs).
To help users take full advantage of the capabilities offered by RescueNET and other Inmarsat safety services, the team provide training to SAR authorities worldwide and have created free online training packages for organisations to learn and test their capabilities using satellite services. They also participate in global SAR exercises to offer recommendations for change and provide support in capacity building and training within established and developing MRCCs.
Peter Broadhurst said “It is a great honour to accept the IMRF Award for Innovation and Technology in Maritime Search and Rescue. I would like to thank my colleagues on the Inmarsat Maritime Safety team and the Network Operations team for offering their expertise and unwavering commitment to such a critical cause. From its foundation in 1979, Inmarsat has been supporting the global SAR community with every means available to us. While significant progress has been made in recent decades, safety at sea can never be taken for granted.”
The Inmarsat Maritime Safety team are on call around the clock to assist in SAR efforts – even those not initiated by Inmarsat equipment – and have developed relationships and procedures between Inmarsat and SAR organisations to enhance tracking and communication during operations. In addition, they have created an SAR API to streamline SAR communications and their integration into operational systems. Emphasising their commitment to maritime safety, they have achieved all of the above with no cost to the SAR community.
First CO2 storage project in the Netherlands launched by Port of Rotterdam and partners
Porthos has taken a final investment decision to develop the first major CO2 transport and storage system in the Netherlands. In 2024 construction will begin in Rotterdam, with the Porthos system expected to be operational by 2026. The Porthos infrastructure requires an investment of €1.3 billion. With the final investment decision reached, Porthos will now award contracts required to realise the project.
Porthos is a joint venture of EBN, Gasunie, and the Port of Rotterdam Authority. It will provide transport and storage services to several companies in the port of Rotterdam, including Air Liquide, Air Products, ExxonMobil, and Shell. These companies will invest in their own capture installations to supply CO2 to Porthos.
Porthos will transport the CO2 through the port of Rotterdam to depleted gas fields in the North Sea, approximately 20 km off the coast, where it will be permanently stored at a depth of 3 to 4 km under the seabed. Porthos plans to store about 2.5 Mton per year for 15 years, totalling around 37 Mton. With that, Porthos has contracted its full storage capacity. The onshore transport system under construction allows for future CO2 storage projects.
Hans Meeuwsen, Porthos director: “CO2 storage is crucial if we want to achieve the climate goals in the Netherlands. This investment decision is an important starting point for future developments in CO2 storage in the Netherlands.”
Boudewijn Siemons, interim CEO and COO of Port of Rotterdam Authority: "It is wonderful that Porthos can now start with the construction work in the port. The CO2 storage will reduce emissions from the companies in the port of Rotterdam by 10%. Next to all our other efforts to start working with cleaner fuels, CO2 capture and storage is really necessary if we are to achieve a considerable reduction in CO2. With Porthos, we are taking the first big step."
Carbon Capture and Storage (CCS) is a cost-effective way to keep large amounts of CO2 emissions out of the atmosphere in the short term. It is therefore an important pillar of the Dutch government's climate policy. Thanks to Porthos, the Rotterdam port industry will soon emit about 10% less CO2. At the same time, the industry is working on the transition to processes based on renewable energy and raw materials.
To realise the project, Porthos partners with TAQA Energy, the present operator of the P18 gas fields, and specialised contractors and suppliers such as Denys N.V., Allseas, LMR Drilling GmbH, Mannesmann Grossrohr GmbH, Corinth Pipeworks, Equans, Ensco Offshore, Van der Ven and Bonatti. Together, under Porthos’ direction, they will deliver the required infrastructure.
The European Union recognised Porthos as an important project in meeting climate targets, declaring Porthos a Project of Common Interest and awarded €102 million in subsidy for it.
NAPA comment on GMF ambition statement: ‘shipping's no-brainer’
Mikko Kuosa, CEO of NAPA, is one of the signatories of today’s Global Maritime Forum ambition statement on Operational Efficiency and believes that immediate action on decarbonisation is a no-brainer for the industry; it is necessary, commercially viable and within reach.
“This latest Ambition Statement by the GMF is a powerful reminder that much progress on decarbonisation can be low-risk, high reward, and high impact,” he says. “But to unlock those gains, we need a collective shift in mindsets to fully recognize the value of operational efficiency as an integral part of shipping’s decarbonization transition. In practice, this means making the most of proven technology that is already available to reduce fuel consumption and greenhouse gas emissions today.
“The commitment made today by the 30 signatories of the Ambition Statement sends an important signal that immediate action on decarbonization is both necessary and within reach. Crucially, the bulk of the five actions identified by the GMF, from greater data collection and transparency to contractual changes, are low-hanging fruit that do not require high capital investments in new engines or alternative fuels, or complex regulatory reforms.
“Furthermore, with the latest generation of data analysis and simulation tools, we can model the results of new technologies and efficiency measures even before they are implemented. This gives companies a clear picture of how those systems will impact safety, operations and performance, bringing the certainty needed to support decision-making.
“This emphasizes just how much can be achieved by the industry itself on the path to decarbonization. Shipping has plenty of options in its toolkit to embark on the transition with confidence. The business case is clear; there is no need to wait.
“Reducing GHG emissions is not only something that the maritime industry should do – it is also something that shipping can do already, and in a commercially viable way. Investing in operational efficiency is a no-brainer – it delivers a commercial win and a win for the environment, and is therefore the obvious foundation for decarbonization. From there, our progress as an industry will depend on our capacity to demonstrate collaborative mindsets, knowledge sharing and visionary leadership. Today’s Ambition Statement is a clear example of all three.”
Global Maritime Forum members issue ambition statement on cutting emissions through operational efficiency
Leading maritime companies have voiced their ambition to adopt vessel optimisation strategies that can decrease annual fuel consumption by 20%, reduce annual emissions by more than 200 million tonnes of CO2, and enable the uptake of more expensive, scalable zero-emission fuels in the long run.
The Global Maritime Forum has identified five key action areas to improve the operational efficiency of vessels. The implementation of operational efficiency strategies plays a critical role in reducing shipping emissions today, while also preparing the industry for a more manageable long-term transition to a zero-emission future.
Three participating companies – Chevron, Euronav, and Cargill – announced the joint ambition statement as part of the Global Maritime Forum Annual Summit in Athens.
These five actions cover: data collection and transparency; contractual changes; pilot projects; ports, terminals, and value chains; and culture and leadership. Participating companies and supporting organisations have signed an ambition statement agreeing to take collective action in these five areas, diligently assess their maturity and progress, and take a leadership role in bringing operational efficiency to the forefront of the shipping agenda.
Shipping voyages are inherently complex, involving multiple parties from commodity owners to shipowners and charterers coordinating with ports and terminals, all guided by contracts and informed by data. Depending on the shipping environment, operators are often incentivised to ‘sail fast then wait’, causing inefficiencies. Vessel operations and speed are inextricably linked to fuel consumption, emissions, and charterparty contracts, all of which can be reduced materially through actions within the five identified action areas.
A series of insight briefs published by the Global Maritime Forum highlighted that operational efficiencies can decrease annual fuel consumption by 20% and reduce annual emissions by more than 200 million tonnes of CO2.
Optimising shipping operations provides an opportunity to act now, using existing technologies and not requiring high capital investments or complex regulatory compliance. Rather, optimisation requires bold leadership, changing mindsets, and a willingness to embrace existing solutions that will minimise the environmental impact of operations—all in a commercially viable way.
“Capitalising fully on operational efficiency will be a prerequisite to achieving the 2030, 2040, and 2050 emissions reduction targets that were recently introduced as part of the International Maritime Organization’s revised greenhouse gas emissions strategy,” says Jesse Fahnestock, the Global Maritime Forum’s Project Director for Decarbonisation. “Operational efficiency measures should and can be taken now, without waiting for new technological advancements like the procurement of zero-emission fuels and newbuild vessels.”
The signatories of the operational efficiency ambition statement are: Amaggi, Blue Visby, Bunge, Cargill, Chevron Shipping, COFCO International, Copenhagen Commercial Platform (CCP), Euronav, Genco Shipping, Lloyd’s Register, Louis Dreyfus Company, Maersk Tankers, NAPA, NYK Group, OCIMF, Oldendorff Carriers, Port of Açu, Port of Rotterdam, PSA International Pte Ltd, Rubis Energie, Siglar Carbon, Signol, Stena Bulk, Stephenson Harwood, Torvald Klaveness, UKHO, Viterra, Watson Farley & Williams LLP (WFW), Wisdom Marine Group, and Zero North.
“Chevron Shipping is proud to support the Global Maritime Forum’s ambition statement on operational efficiency,” says Mark Ross, President, Chevron Shipping. “Chevron and the Global Maritime Forum are aligned on increasing efficiencies, decreasing fuel consumption, and lowering the carbon intensity of operations. We look forward to collaborating with our partners and engaging with stakeholders across the maritime value chain to help reach our common goals."
“The decarbonisation pathway starts today – not in 2030 or even in 2050,” says Lieve Logghe, Interim CEO, Euronav. “This is the reason Euronav joined the Global Maritime Forum’s operational efficiency work in the first place, and why signing and acting on the ambition statement was a no-brainer. The initiative enables cross-industry peers to pool actionable knowledge and to share actual real-life experiences – resulting in an impact on both the environment and the bottom line of the company.”
“In an industry built around vessels that remain in service for decades, only through operational efficiencies, reducing fuel usage, costs, and carbon emissions will we be able to afford future green fuels and achieve our decarbonisation targets,’’ says Eman Abdalla, Global Operations and Supply Chain Director, Cargill Ocean Transportation. “There is no decarbonisation without collaboration, and Cargill is proud to support this initiative. It is the right catalyst to bring the necessary collective and transformational change.”
BIMCO approves revised SYNACOMEX grain charter
BIMCO’s Documentary Committee has approved a revised version of the Continent Grain Charter Party, SYNACOMEX, to reflect changes in the geopolitical landscape following events including the COVID-19 pandemic and the war in Ukraine. The revised charter party now includes BIMCO’s anti-corruption clause and updated versions of the war risks and sanctions clauses.
The charter party is developed by joint copyright holders SYNACOMEX and Armateurs de France, the French Union for Grains and Seeds Trade and the French Shipowners’ Association. It is widely used by grain traders in areas including the Baltics, the East Coast of South America and the Black Sea.
The revision of the contract began during the pandemic when the way of doing business changed for many, and the war in Ukraine has amplified the need to update. The charter was last revised in 2000 and the new update also includes changes in the commercial utilisation, including a removal of its “box layout”.
“SYNACOMEX 2023 is the result of thorough consultations within the membership of SYNACOMEX and a detailed review by BIMCO to ensure that the form reflects the parties’ needs. It is an up-to-date and easy-to-use standard based on what we know works in the industry,” says Christelle Tailhardat, Secretary General of SYNACOMEX.
The first SYNACOMEX charter party was introduced in 1957 and previous editions of the form have also been approved by BIMCO.
“We are pleased to work with other organisations to support and raise the contractual standards in the industry. The grain charter is an important document which has been increasingly used in the global grains and seeds trade over the years,” says BIMCO’s Documentary Committee Chairperson Nick Fell, Executive Vice President Corporate Services and General Counsel of BW Group.
The BIMCO review was assisted by a committee representing frequent users of the form from Pacific Basin (Claire Weustenraed), NORDEN (Rasmus Saltofte and Camilla Engedal), Ifchor/Nova Marine Carriers (Emilien Aubey) and Gard Japan (Sammy Smallbone).
“As joint copyright holders of the SYNACOMEX form and members of the Documentary Committee, we are pleased to see BIMCO supporting the document. This is a quality stamp which will further assist the acceptance of the form in the market,” says Jean-Philippe Casanova, Executive Officer of Armateurs de France.
SYNACOMEX 2023 will soon be made available for use on SmartCon and on the BIMCO website accompanied by explanatory notes.
Kongsberg Digital to digitalise Brazilian offshore and merchant shipping company Posidonia
Kongsberg Digital is proud to announce its collaboration with Brazilian offshore and merchant shipping company Posidonia. As part of this partnership, selected vessels from Posidonia's fleet will be equipped with Kongsberg Digital's vessel-to-cloud infrastructure, Vessel Insight, and the K-fleet applications suite.
Kongsberg Digital's Vessel Insight offers a streamlined approach to maritime digitalisation, allowing shipowners like Posidonia to tap into their vessel data's potential fully. This integration allows Posidonia to access real-time data from its fleet, providing valuable insights to enhance operations, minimise fuel consumption, and support sustainability efforts.
Furthermore, through the K-fleet application suite by Kongsberg Digital, Posidonia will benefit from a comprehensive range of tools that assist in areas such as maintenance planning, inventory management, procurement, quality and safety management, documentation, and fleet operation.
The Vessel Insight infrastructure will be installed on five of Posidonia's offshore vessels and four merchant vessels.
The Brazilian-based shipping company offers cargo transportation in the Brazilian Domestic Cabotage and International Trade and operations in Offshore and Ship Management. By partnering with Posidonia, Kongsberg Digital reinforces its dedication to driving digital transformation in key maritime hubs worldwide.
“The maritime industry is facing mounting pressure to reduce its carbon footprint, and digital solutions such as Vessel Insight are crucial in helping shipowners meet environmental goals,” says Alex Ikonomopoulos, Posidonia COO. “Posidonia is at the forefront of maritime digitalization through this partnership, demonstrating its dedication to sustainable shipping practices.”
“We're thrilled to partner with Posidonia, a prominent player in the Brazilian maritime sector,” says Christopher Bergsager, VP Growth Global Maritime in Kongsberg Digital. “Our Vessel Insight platform is designed to simplify maritime digitalisation, and with this collaboration, Posidonia can harness the full potential of its vessel data. This partnership underscores Kongsberg Digital's dedication to advancing digital transformation in maritime hubs globally.”
FincoEnergies expands its sustainable biofuels and decarbonization solutions into the Americas region
FincoEnergies, an independent provider of energy and decarbonization solutions for the heavy transport sector, has announced the expansion of its GoodFuels, GoodShipping and GoodZero brands into the Americas, with the appointment of Kimberly Westmoreland (pictured) as Managing Director for the region.
FincoEnergies’ new US-based team will provide real-time support for and access to commercially-proven sustainable biofuels, carbon insetting and carbon offsetting offerings across the Americas, responding to the fast-growing demand for immediate decarbonization solutions in the region.
FincoEnergies’ experience in the sustainable biofuel market is unparalleled. Since 2015, its GoodFuels brand has delivered advanced fuels that “drop in” to conventional tanks and reduce carbon emissions by up to 90% without requiring any alterations to the fuel infrastructure or marine engines.
The US team will be headed by Kimberly Westmoreland, FincoEnergies’ newly appointed Managing Director for the Americas region, who brings over 15 years of experience in marine operations and fuel procurement, including previous roles at Parkland USA and Royal Caribbean Cruises.
The launch of FincoEnergies Americas is the latest step in the company’s global expansion, demonstrating its continued commitment to develop and deliver sustainable solutions that drive decarbonization in the heavy transport sector. It is FincoEnergies’ second base outside of Europe, after the launch of a Singapore office in early 2022.
Kimon Palinginis, Managing Director Business Innovation of FincoEnergies, said: “Following our remarkable success in Europe as the industry leader in sustainable marine biofuels and scope 3 insetting services, and our entry into the Asian market, we are now poised to channel our efforts toward serving the rapidly emerging Americas market. We are committed to delivering the same high-quality sustainable solutions that our global clients have come to expect from us in Europe and Asia.”
Kimberly Westmoreland, Managing Director of FincoEnergies for the Americas region, said: “I am proud to be at the forefront of the energy transition at FincoEnergies Americas, delivering solutions such as sustainable biofuels, carbon insetting and carbon offsetting that can make a tangible difference today on the environmental footprint of the maritime industry. I eagerly look forward to engaging with our valued customers and partners to deliver our vision of working together for a better world.”
APM Terminals a step closer to realizing Brazil’s first 100% electrified terminal
This week, APM Terminals Suape received approval from Brazil’s National Waterway Transport Agency to change its cargo profile, enabling the terminal to operate containerized cargo and expand the area to be used by the terminal. APM Terminals Suape will operate the new container terminal at the Governador Eraldo Gueiros Port Industrial Complex (Suape) in Pernambuco, Brazil.
The future terminal will be able to handle up to 400,000 TEUs and will increase the capacity of the port complex by 55%, generating direct and indirect job opportunities. The construction is expected to begin in 2024, with operations expected to start in the second quarter of 2026.
APM Terminals Suape signed the addendum to the adhesion contract for the land at Estaleiro Atlântico Sul (EAS). The technical signing meeting was held at the Suape Port Authority Auditorium in the presence of the Brazilian Minister of Ports and Airports Silvio Costa Filho, Pernambuco State Governor Raquel Lyra, Suape Industrial Port Complex Director President Marcio Guiot, APM Terminals Managing Director Leo Huisman, and Managing Director of APM Terminals Suape, Aristides Russi Junior.
"The new container terminal in Suape will benefit from APM Terminals’ global expertise as one of the largest terminal operators in the world,” commented Aristides Junior, Managing Director of APM Terminals Suape. “It will accelerate the region's development, increasing port competitiveness in the Northeast of Brazil. APM Terminals Suape will be the first 100% electrified terminal in Latin America with a R$1.6 billion (Approximate EUR 300 million) investment in this first implementation phase.”
APM Terminals Suape will have a modern infrastructure to meet customers’ needs, with pioneering initiatives in port sustainability. All equipment will be electric, with cutting-edge technology and processes, such as a complete environmental management system, waste management, wastewater treatment, and groundwater flow modelling for pollution control.
Shipnext supports smarter shipping with free access for Institute of Chartered Shipbrokers Members and Students
The Institute of Chartered Shipbrokers (ICS), a leading professional body for the maritime industry, and Shipnext, the digital SaaS (Software-as-a-Service) shipping platform and marketplace, are pleased to announce a significant collaboration aimed at enhancing education within the shipping industry for its students.
Shipnext offers a comprehensive suite of digital solutions including instant data and email processing, freight-matching, freight tendering and chartering, contract management, digital documentation flow, CRM and transportation management tools. Under the terms of this new agreement, Shipnext will provide full access to its platform free of charge for one year to registered ICS Students, as well as Members (MICS) and Fellows (FICS) of the Institute.
Commenting on this exciting collaboration, Glenn Murphy FICS, Chairman of the Institute of Chartered Shipbrokers, stated: "We are thrilled to join forces with Shipnext to provide our Students and Members with access to cutting-edge technology that will undoubtedly bolster their education by providing them access to a rich content of real-time shipping market data. This partnership exemplifies our continued commitment to fostering excellence and innovation in the maritime sector."
Shipnext founder and CEO Alexander Varvarenko FICS (pictured) said: "A Fellow of the Institute myself, I have fond memories of beginning my own journey in shipping with the ICS.
"Fast forward to today and, as an innovator in the space, I feel it is important to support the international broker community in the transition to a smarter, more efficient way of doing business. This collaboration between the Institute of Chartered Shipbrokers and Shipnext represents a significant step forward in equipping aspiring and established professionals in the shipping industry with the tools and knowledge they need to excel in their careers. It underscores the commitment of both organisations to foster innovation and facilitate growth within the maritime sector."
Robert Hill FICS, Director at the ICS, further emphasised: "We enthusiastically embrace this opportunity to offer special benefits to our Members and Students, while also providing our Fellows with platforms to share their expertise with our vast global network of shipping professionals."
ICS Students, Members and Fellows who wish to register for free access to Shipnext are invited to contact: ics@shipnext.com (they should not complete registration on the Shipnext website in the usual manner).
HFW continues to support BIMCO on shipping industry decarbonisation
Global, sector-focused law firm HFW has continued to support BIMCO in helping the shipping industry navigate complex new carbon intensity (CII) regulations and work towards decarbonisation.
The International Convention for the Prevention of Pollution from Ships (MARPOL) introduced new regulations on 1 January 2023 that require ships to reduce their carbon intensity on an ongoing basis, with CII Ratings awarded based on annual assessments.
Shipping organisation BIMCO's 'CII Operations Clause for Voyage Charter Parties 2023' seeks to assist owners and charterers in contractually navigating and managing the new regulations.
HFW green shipping and decarbonisation experts Alessio Sbraga and Joseph Malpas formed part of the drafting sub-committee for this clause. HFW was the only law firm on the sub-committee.
This follows HFW's work drafting BIMCO's CII clause for time charter parties, as well as several other ‘game-changing’ carbon emissions clauses, including an emissions trading scheme allowances clause for time charters, the industry's first standard offshore decommissioning contact, and two clauses relating to the IMO’s 2020 sulphur emission rules.
HFW is currently assisting BIMCO on upcoming emissions trading scheme clauses for voyage charters.
The firm also helped BIMCO draft the industry's first standard contract for autonomous shipping, its first cyber security clause, a ‘faster, simpler’ ship sale and purchase agreement, and a model clause addressing force majeure events occurring under contracts.
HFW is widely recognised as one of the world's leading shipping and maritime law firms, and has been serving clients in the industry for almost 140 years. The firm has more than 200 shipping lawyers and 13 Master Mariners across its global network, specialising in dry shipping, admiralty and crisis management, and transactional work. HFW has more top-tier rankings for shipping in Chambers and The Legal 500 than any other law firm.
To read BIMCO's CII Operations Clause for Voyage Charter Parties, visit: https://www.bimco.org/news/priority-news/20231013-new-cii-clause-for-voyage-charter-parties
ClassNK issues AiP for hydrogen-fuelled vessel
ClassNK has issued an Approval in Principle (AiP) for a parcel layout concept for a hydrogen-fuelled multi-purpose vessel developed by MOL, MOL Drybulk, Onomichi Dockyard, Kawasaki Heavy Industries and Japan Engine Corporation (J-ENG). This is believed to be the world’s first AiP certification for a ship equipped with a large low-speed two-stroke hydrogen-fuelled engine as the main propulsion engine.
According to the companies, demonstration operation of the vessel will be conducted for two years from around FY2027 as part of the ‘Development of marine hydrogen engines and MHFS (Marine Hydrogen Fuel System)’ which was adopted by Green Innovation Funding Program of the New Energy and Industrial Technology Development Organization (NEDO).
Prior to the demonstration operation, J-ENG’s large low-speed two-stroke hydrogen-fuelled engine and Kawasaki’s MHFS will be installed in the vessel by FY2026.
MOL and MOL Drybulk will be in charge of ownership and operation management of the vessel and Onomichi Dockyard will be in charge of the development and building of the vessel, and they will cooperate toward the demonstration operation.
ClassNK carried out a review of a parcel layout concept for the MHFS based on its rules including part GF of its ‘Rules and Guidance for the Survey and Construction of Steel Ships’ incorporating the IGF Code and risk assessment results through Pre-HAZID. Upon confirming they comply with the prescribed requirements, ClassNK issued the AiP.
Tankers International welcomes new pool partner Kuwait Petroleum Corporation and another vessel from TRF
Tankers International, the world’s largest shipping pool for VLCCs, has announced today that two VLCCs have joined the VLCC pool, with an additional vessel due imminently.
One VLCC, owned and operated by Kuwait Oil Tanker Company (KOTC), a subsidiary of state-owned Kuwait Petroleum Corporation (KPC), has joined the VLCC pool, while another vessel from KPC is expected to join later this month. Meanwhile, existing pool partner Transportation Recovery Fund (TRF) has added another vessel - the Eco Seas - to the specialist VLCC Scrubber Pool. This brings the total fleet size to 66.
With ownership in 39 ships across the product, crude, LPG, and bunker segments, KPC is a top 10 oil major with a substantial footprint in the Middle East. It will now be able to access support towards compliance with existing and future regulations and unlock efficiencies and commercial advantage through Tankers International’s pool. KPC will also benefit from enhanced charter party terms, market intelligence and a collaborative approach to data insights via Tankers International’s independent and transparent management service.
“KPC’s vessels are a significant addition to our pool’s efficient, and diversified fleet, and reflect the ambitions of the pool,” said Charlie Grey (pictured), CEO of Tankers International. “Adding KPC to the pool provides our partners access to KPC’s cargo base, as well as adding another layer of data and insights into the oil markets in the region.”
KPC commented: “We have set ourselves the target to be a world leader in marine transport, and becoming a member of the Tankers International VLCC pool will further enable us to achieve this. The pool offers a great depth of market information and knowledge-sharing opportunities amongst gold standard owners, and we are looking forward to collaborating with the other partners.”
TRF joined the Tankers International VLCC pool in June 2023 with the addition of TRF Horten. The second vessel from TRF of the Eco Seas (DWT 299,998 MT / Built 2018), will reduce the average age for the scrubber pool, enabling Tankers International to offer modern, higher-performing vessels to the industry.
Grey continued: “TRF’s addition to the pool only improves Tankers International’s ability to offer top-quality vessels to the industry. We’re proud that our professionalism and experience are reflected in their vote of confidence, and the pool will benefit from younger tonnage with better earnings distributed across the members.”
Michael Aasland, CEO of TRF Ship Management, said: “Since our first addition to the pool, we have been impressed with the team at Tankers International’s determination to deliver value. We have achieved strong financial returns in the near term, leading us to add another vessel to the pool.”
Sailors’ Society Chair receives maritime leadership award
Global maritime charity Sailors’ Society is delighted that its Chair of Trustees, Peter Swift, has received the 2023 SAFETY4SEA Leadership Award.
Peter received the award, sponsored by MacGregor, for his overall contribution to the maritime industry. The judges commented that he had demonstrated exceptional leadership in seafarer welfare, piracy and crisis response, maritime knowledge awareness, and the promotion of quality in ships and their management.
Sailors’ Society CEO, Sara Baade, said: “We could not be more proud of Peter. As a respected and distinguished figure in the maritime industry with an unwavering dedication to the welfare of seafarers, he constantly supports and promotes our dedicated 24/7 support for seafarers and their families and our acclaimed Wellness at Sea programme.
“On behalf of everyone at Sailors’ Society, congratulations Peter on this well-deserved award.”
Peter said: “I am very privileged and grateful to receive this recognition and award. Throughout my career, I have benefited from, and am extremely grateful for, the assistance of many colleagues from whom I have learned an awful lot. I want to take this opportunity to acknowledge and thank them."
Peter joined Shell in 1975 and held various key positions. In 2001, he transitioned to a leadership role at INTERTANKO, where he served as Managing Director until 2010. His extensive industry knowledge and leadership skills were pivotal in shaping the organisation’s direction.
Peter has continued to contribute to the maritime industry and various charitable causes. He served as a Non-Executive Director at Ardmore Shipping Corporation from 2013 to 2020.
Additionally, Peter has been a Trustee of the Maritime Industry Foundation/Maritime Knowledge Centre since 2003, a Director and Council Member of the Green Award Foundation since 2003, and Chairman of the Korean Register of Shipping European Committee since 2009.
He has been a Trustee of Sailors’ Society since 2011, assuming the role of Chairman in 2019. He also chaired the Maritime Piracy Humanitarian Response Programme (MHRP) from 2011 to 2016 and served as a Trustee for the International Seafarers’ Welfare and Assistance Network (ISWAN) from 2011 to 2020. Peter is also a Member of the Royal Institution of Naval Architect’s (RINA) IMO Committee.
You can watch Peter’s acceptance video here.
Challenges of running a Galley amid global impacts highlighted by MCTC on International Chefs Day
Catering management specialists MCTC is shining a spotlight on the challenges Galley Cooks deal with onboard, including a lack of provisions, catering for different nationalities, and putting crews’ needs before their own, on this year’s International Chefs Day.
As the world has struggled with cost of living and supply chain crises over the past year, MCTC has highlighted the vital work of the role of the Galley Cook on this special day and the challenges they face, as industries show appreciation for Chefs across the globe.
The shortage of supplies has been a particular challenge for Galley crews in 2023 due to the global supply chain crisis, which in turn can impact the smooth running of the Galley, says Culinary Training Consultant Costas Georgakoudes (pictured).
He said: “Not having the correct provisions is a particular challenge for Galley crews currently. Not only does it impact on their organisation of the Galley, but it can also lead to resentment from other crew members. They look forward to a particular meal they often enjoy with their families at home and if that is not available for whatever reason, the Chef must deal with the upset among their colleagues. It is a constant pressure to perform and deliver the right meals for crews.”
International Chefs Day recognises the hard work, passion, and determination of the role of the Chef and highlights the importance of inspiring our next generation to enter the profession of catering. As part of their own initiatives to work with the families of seafarers, MCTC annually holds sessions with the wives/partners and children of crews to teach them how to cook healthy and delicious meals while their loved one is away at sea.
To celebrate World Chefs Day MCTC’s team of Culinary Training Consultants have highlighted the challenging working environments of a Galley cook and why so many in the seafaring industry choose to work in the Galley.
Culinary Training Supervisor at MCTC, Tonia Drousiotou explained a successful Galley Cook would need a blend of culinary skill, adaptability, and efficient time management. Cooks must competently prepare meals while efficiently managing tasks such as menu planning, inventory control and adhering to safety protocols.
“Cooks are vital to sustaining the ship's crew. It's essential for all crew members to recognise the key role the Chief Cooks play, ensuring tasty meals and maintaining morale onboard. With tireless dedication and skill, the Cooks orchestrate the flavours that keep the crew nourished - a contribution deserving of sincere appreciation,” she said.
For the past two years running, MCTC has held the annual Cook’s Day on May 30th for the shipping industry, encouraging crews to come together and show appreciation for their Cooks by baking a cake.
Dominique Beato, Culinary Training Consultant at MCTC, added: “The hardest part of being a chef is having the mindset that you must put others before yourself, ensure everyone has eaten before you, endure long hours, sacrifice your holidays, special occasions and sometimes even sick days.
“Being a chef is about putting in the effort to prepare something even if your own needs will be compromised. We usually work during meal periods to ensure that everybody else gets to dine and nourish themselves properly. It is about being selfless. Cooks make these sacrifices because they enjoy catering to the crews needs and seeing them enjoy a delicious meal they have created."
Greensea IQ celebrates expansion of its production facility in Plymouth, MA
US-based Greensea IQ celebrated the 25,000 square foot expansion of its Cordage Park production facility on October 17th. This new expansion establishes a manufacturing centre for the production of several navigation and robotics systems including the Bayonet line of surf zone crawlers, EverClean hull cleaning robots, RNAV3 diver navigation systems, and OPENSEA Edge autonomy hardware.
Greensea IQ Chief Growth Officer Rob Howard, states: “We were excited to open our newly expanded facility to the public for the first time and welcomed local blue tech businesses, community leaders and others from the marine industry.”
He continues: “This expansion is the next step in Greensea IQ’s transition from doing custom development work to delivering fully integrated intelligent products for working in the ocean. The new facility will support the planned growth and worldwide expansion of our robotics-as-a-service program, EverClean, while it gains adoption as fleet owners work to meet increasingly demanding carbon emissions requirements and increased hull performance throughout the cruise and shipping industries.
“Plymouth will also allow us to quickly scale to meet demand for the new Bayonet line of AUGVs as we start delivering the platform to defense and commercial customers for use in near shore MCM, EOD, UXO and surf zone survey applications.”
Greensea IQ’s expansion celebration took place immediately following an on-water demonstration as part of the Blue Future Conference held in Plymouth, Massachusetts held at the Cordage Park Marina, Greenea IQ’s on water testing area. In addition to the Bayonet 250 other participants at the demo included Jaia Robotics, SeaTrac, and students from Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT).
Marinfloc wins approval for its Wastewater Treatment System from WinGD
Marinfloc, a pioneer in maritime environmental solutions, proudly announces a pivotal update to its CD EGR system. Following rigorous and extensive tests, we've secured approval to treat Exhaust Gas Recirculation bleed off water from WIN-GD engines equipped with iCER systems. Consequently, the CD EGR is transitioning to the Marinfloc WTS (Water Treatment System), a testament to our commitment to superior wastewater treatment in the maritime sector.
Marinfloc says its WTS isn't a mere product iteration but a significant advancement of the esteemed CD EGR system. The Membrane-Free Innovation sidesteps the pitfalls of expensive, high-maintenance membranes, paving the way for a more sustainable and economical wastewater treatment approach.
The WTS system's robustness and reliability has now earned the endorsement of industry heavyweight WinGD, Marinfloc adds,further solidifying its position as a trusted partner in maritime environmental solutions.
The WTS system is described as standing out with its unique capability to automatically adjust its overboard discharge capacity in line with water generation, all while consistently supplying the iCER system with treated water. This optimization, managed by the Discharge Control Unit tailored for the WIN GD application, significantly reduces energy consumption and the use of consumables. The result is a system that's not only cost-effective for shipowners and operators but also minimizes the CO2 footprint.
Martin Gombrii, Managing Director of Marinfloc Sales & Production, states: "We want to do our part in the industry's endeavor for energy reduction and CO2 emissions, and the adaptability of the WTS is our answer. Most solutions on the market are either turned on or off, meaning the energy consumption is either 0 or 100%. We strive to be at the forefront of this and believe that such adaptable solutions are one of the industry's paths toward sustainability."
Marinfloc's WTS system boasts a state-of-the-art Human-Machine Interface (HMI). Designed with the user in mind, this interface simplifies system monitoring and management, complete with instructional videos and digital guidelines accessible directly in the engine room. Plus, the HMI facilitates remote service and support, ensuring vessels stay connected and receive assistance, no matter their location.
Martin Gombrii, Managing Director of Marinfloc Sales & Production, remarks: "The new approval and rebranding of our WTS Wastewater Treatment System underscore our dedication to leading industry solutions that not only meet but exceed regulatory standards, all while backing sustainability and efficiency."
WFW Paris joins Wind Ship in France
Watson Farley & Williams (WFW) Paris is delighted to announce it has joined industry association Wind Ship in France, part of the International Windship Association, to help the energy transition and decarbonisation of the maritime sector by developing and deploying wind-power propelled vessels.
Wind Ship’s financial and environmental goals reflect the maritime industry’s commitment to a collaborative, pan-sector approach to meet ESG goals – as highlighted in WFW’s maritime thought leadership reports The Sustainable Imperative Parts 1 and 2. WFW is pleased to be the first law firm to join Wind Ship, reflecting our long-standing commitment to both the maritime sector and sustainability as demonstrated by our role in helping develop the industry-wide Poseidon Principles in 2019 to support the IMO’s goal to reduce shipping’s total annual greenhouse gas emissions by at least 50% by 2050.
Founded in 2019, Wind Ship gathers 30 wind-powered technology providers to support and promote innovation. Wind Ship coordinates the “Europe-Atlantic” hub of the International Wind Ship Association, a network with 180 industry members who support IMO and EU decarbonisation plans, and the original initiator of the Decade of Wind Propulsion declaration of intent, dedicated to the decarbonisation of both current and future vessels. Wind Ship also includes amongst its members both financial institutions (such as Crédit Mutuel and Banque Populaire Grand Ouest) and technical advisors.
Paris Finance Partner Philippe Monfort and Associate Vincent Cossavella will lead on WFW’s relationship with Wind Ship to promote the firm’s expertise in helping it and its members achieve their goals.
Survitec’s SMARR-TI wins SAFETY4SEA Technology Award 2023
Global Survival Technology solutions provider Survitec has won the SAFETY4SEA Technology Award for the second year running. The 2023 award recognises SMARR-TI (Safety Management and Rapid Response Technology Interface), an interactive safety management solution that allows crew to monitor and control their onboard fire safety systems within one integrated and easy-to-use solution. This achievement follows Survitec's win with Seahaven in 2022.
Survitec launched its new SMARR-TI solution in June 2023. Developed in cooperation with Turkish shipyard Tersan and Norway’s Havila Voyages, SMARR-TI supplements SOLAS requirements for a fire safety plan to be permanently exhibited for the guidance of ship’s officers by providing real-time information on the present status and location of onboard fire safety systems and equipment on a digital representation of the ship plan.
“SMARR-TI is unique in integrating fire detection and fire suppression systems within one solution. No other solution currently does this,” said Rafal Kolodziejski, Head of Product Support and Development at Survitec. “The aim is to give early warning of changes in shipboard’s environment quickly and effectively and then to enable swift action to prevent a fire from happening.”
Using a 27-inch touchscreen monitor on the bridge and in the engine control room, crew members can monitor and operate the ship’s fire defences thanks to real-time status updates, alerts and notifications warning of changing conditions, such as temperatures exceeding set limits or the presence of smoke or flame. Various actions, such as sounding alarms, closing fire doors and shutting down ventilation systems, can then be activated automatically, including triggering signals to the alarm monitoring system, SMS interface, and public announcement system.
Currently, 34 ships have the SMARR-TI system installed, with another 9 sets currently on order.
The eighth annual SAFETY4SEA Virtual Awards took place on 18 October, using a combination of open nominations, audience votes and an industry panel of experts to recognise organisations that foster safety, excellence and sustainable shipping.
The Technology Award is presented to an organisation that has provided a significant technological achievement, breakthrough or contribution in any aspect of maritime safety activity. It is the second consecutive year Survitec has won this award. Last year, Survitec won the award for Seahaven, the world’s largest inflatable lifeboat.
Accepting the award at a virtual ceremony held on 18 October, Finn Lende-Harung, Director of Commercial Operations, Survitec, said: “This is an amazing recognition of the great work the team has done. I am so proud to accept this on behalf of Survitec. SMARR-TI allows you to see the entire ship and use the fire sensors to act quickly when there’s an accident, meaning you can shorten the time it takes to save people and assets onboard. This award further demonstrates our purpose at Survitec: We Exist to Protect Lives.”
Lende-Harung added: “What makes me particularly proud of the team here at Survitec is that we are building on the legacy of our Seahaven win last year.”
DP World expands automotive logistics expertise with acquisition of CFR Rinkens
DP World, has reinforced its commitment to the global automotive industry with the acquisition of CFR Rinkens, a specialised logistics service provider headquartered in Long Beach, California.
The acquisition of CFR Rinkens represents a strategic move to enhance its capabilities in delivering precisely tailored solutions to its automotive clients. DP World already transports one in every ten new cars worldwide, and this acquisition brings new dimensions to the company's comprehensive suite of services.
CFR Rinkens, with its specialized expertise, provides invaluable proficiency in containerized finished vehicles, semi-knock-down vehicle logistics, and innovative racking systems. This additional depth of knowledge is set to fortify DP World's position as a trusted partner for automotive clients, supporting them through the industry's transition to electric vehicles and the global evolution towards sustainable energy solutions.
What’s more, CFR Rinkens brings its wealth of experience in delivering tailored logistics solutions to the emerging energy storage and battery life cycle industries. The acquisition fortifies DP World’s ability to customise its offerings to meet the evolving needs of its clients.
Beat Simon, Global Chief Commercial Officer, Logistics at DP World, said: “We are thrilled to welcome CFR Rinkens into the DP World family as we continue to deliver our strategy to provide innovative end-to-end logistics services to our clients. Our combined capabilities will empower our automotive clients to navigate the challenges presented by the industry’s shift to electric vehicles and the emerging green energy revolution.”
Christoph Seitz, CEO of CFR Rinkens, said: “We look forward to joining forces with DP World and foresee substantial growth opportunities ahead through their extensive global terminal and logistics network. Our shared vision revolves around redefining customer experiences by streamlining operations and introducing innovative solutions. We are confident that integrating with DP World will empower us to expand into new markets and elevate our service offerings, ensuring unparalleled value for our clients.”
With advanced technology and extensive global logistics network, DP World is transforming the automotive industry. Handling over 10% of global automotive trade and collaborating with top manufacturers, DP World leverages its interconnected network of ‘roll-on-roll-off’ (Ro-Ro) ports, sea vessels, warehouses, and freight forwarders to efficiently transport finished vehicles to global markets.
Boasting 16 Ro-Ro terminals, shipping over 30,000 cars in containers annually, and offering storage solutions for over 1 million cars, DP World’s strategic sites handle 2 million car equivalent units each year, while also providing value-added services for dealer-ready vehicles.
The financial advisory services for CFR Rinkens in this transaction are provided by Cascadia, while Rutan & Tucker serves as the legal advisor. The specific terms of the deal have not been disclosed, and the arrangement remains subject to standard and customary approvals.
Med Marine holds keel laying ceremony for Port Qasim buoy tender vessel
Leading Turkish shipbuilder and tug operator Med Marine celebrated a significant milestone as it hosted a keel laying ceremony in honour of its esteemed client, Port Qasım Authority, on on October 17.. The ceremony marked the official commencement of the construction of a state-of-the-art buoy tender vessel, as part of a contract signed between Port Qasim and Med Marine in 2022.
The Buoy Tender vessel, designed by Seatech, is set to be 45 metres in length, specifically tailored to meet the growing demands of Port Qasım Authority. This remarkable project brings together the collective expertise of Med Marine and the vision of Port Qasım Authority, reaffirming their commitment to advancing maritime solutions.
The keel laying ceremony was a momentous event, attended by a distinguished gathering of individuals representing both Port Qasım and Med Marine. Furthermore, Med Marine acknowledges and appreciates the presence of Mr. Owais, CEO of Dynamic Engineering and Automation (DEA), Med Marine's local agency in Pakistan. His attendance at the event reinforces the strong partnership and collaborative spirit that define this project.
From Port Qasım's side, Chairman of Port Qasım R/Adm (R) Syed Hasan Nasir Shah and General Director of Port Qasım R/Adm Shahid Ahmed were present.
From Med Marine's side, CEO of Med Marine Mr. Hakan Şen, General Manager of YMN TANKER Mr. Yaman Şen, General Manager of Med Marine Ms. Yıldız Bozkurt, Eregli Shipyard Manager Mr. Kemal Bektaş, and Sales Director of Med Marine Ms. Melis Üçüncü attended the ceremony.
The ceremony also witnessed the presence of esteemed local authorities who graced us with their participation, including the District Governor Mr. Mehmet Yapıcı, Harbor Master Mr. Bülent Taşdemir, Chairman of Chamber of Commerce Mr. Arslan Keleş, and Chamber of Shipping Mr. Oğuz Ünlüer. Their support and involvement in this ceremony underscored the importance of this project for the entire region.
Med Marine is confident that this collaboration will not only strengthen the ties between Pakistan and Turkey but also contribute to the growth and prosperity of the maritime industry in both nations. We were honored to have the Pakistan Embassy in Ankara's Deputy Head of Mission, Mr. Abbas Sarwar Qureshi, and Mr. Faraz Khan, Second Secretary, as distinguished guests at this momentous occasion.
The keel laying ceremony represents the beginning of a promising journey that will result in the creation of a vessel that will serve Port Qasım Authority with excellence. Med Marine looks forward to completing this project successfully and delivering a world-class buoy tender vessel to its valued client, Port Qasım Authority.
ABS and Pelagus 3D to advance additive manufacturing for spare parts
ABS and Pelagus 3D Pte. Ltd., a joint venture company of thyssenkrupp and Wilhelmsen, signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) to advance the technologies and adoption of on-demand additive manufacturing (AM) of marine and offshore spare parts.
During a three-year term, ABS and Pelagus 3D will collaborate on a variety of initiatives including the incorporation of ABS testing requirements through the Pelagus Platform for AM parts. This project will also support the continued development of industry guidelines and standards for AM, including qualification of global AM manufacturers and streamlining of certification for AM parts.
“AM technologies have the potential to streamline supply chains and simplify procurement and maintenance schedules, minimizing delay and reducing costs,” said Gareth Burton, ABS Vice President of Technology. “ABS is committed to supporting continued innovation in the development of AM technologies through industry-leading projects, such as this one with Pelagus 3D, and through our approval and certification process, while maintaining our focus on quality and safety.”
The MOU was signed in Singapore during the ABS Technology Forum: Enabling Electrification and Model-based Approaches, a conference connecting key stakeholders across the maritime value chain. Attendees from manufacturing, government and academia joined ABS to identify areas for future collaboration and research projects.
“At Pelagus 3D, we believe in pushing the boundaries of innovation to create a more resilient and efficient spare parts supply chain,” said Kenlip Ong, Pelagus 3D Chief Executive Officer. “The MOU signing with ABS marks a pivotal milestone for the growth of the AM spare parts supply chain. We look forward to working together with ABS to enhance testing capabilities that will ensure seamless integration and accelerate adoption of AM in the maritime and offshore industry.”
ABS has been involved in a range of industry-leading AM initiatives, including a joint development project focused on functional AM parts on board an oil tanker.
Indian Register of Shipping and Hindustan Shipyard successfully complete ONGC Drill Ship Renewal
Indian Register of Shipping (IRS), and Hindustan Shipyard Ltd (HSL) have successfully completing the renewal survey of the ONGC Drill Ship Modu Sagar Bhushan under the management of Shipping Corporation of India (SCI).
As part of the extensive scope of work for this project, more than 1,500 ton of steel was renewed, and major machinery items were newly installed replacing the old machinery thereby expanding the scope of survey and certification. Despite these challenges, the project was completed in just 10 months.
After extensive steel renewals, the ship was safely undocked and all newly installed machinery replacing the old machinery passed its sea trials successfully. The success of this survey demonstrates the effectiveness of IRS surveys and the crucial role IRS surveyors play in ensuring ships adhere to rigorous safety and quality standards.
The achievement marks the successful completion of HSL's fourth ship in just four months, solidifying its reputation as the industry's fastest turnaround shipyard. In all four cases, the IRS was involved for survey and certification of the ships.
Commodore Hemant Khatri, Chairman and Managing Director of HSL, complimented the shipyard team and applauded IRS’ contribution to the success of this project. Mr Sairam, Executive Director of ONGC, expressed his satisfaction and gratitude to HSL and IRS for the remarkable restoration of Sagar Bhushan.
Mr Saikat Roychowdhury, Regional Manager (East Coast & Bangladesh) said: “This outstanding synergy was a result of prudent planning, the guidance of surveyors, and exemplary teamwork between the shipyard and IRS.”
Mr Vijay Arora, IRS’ Managing Director, said: “It has always been the endeavour of IRS to forge a strong partnership with shipyard and shipowners by ensuring exceptional service delivery standards and the remarkable accomplishment in this project endorses the technical prowess of the organisation.”
ONE accelerates digitalisation by carrying out e-BDN adoption trial
Ocean Network Express (ONE) is accelerating its digitalisation efforts with the latest successful trial with Shell, with support from the Maritime and Port Authority of Singapore (MPA), for the adoption of the electronic Bunker Delivery Note (e-BDN).
The e-BDN trial, using the digital bunkering solution developed by Angsana Technology, was conducted on 9 September 2023 at the Port of Singapore. As part of the trial, the cargo officer, chief engineer, and bunker surveyor logged in to the platform via their unique link and one-time password, to complete the electronic bunkering documentations for pre-delivery and post-delivery. Upon completion, the bunkering documents were transmitted to all parties before the vessels departed.
The adoption of e-BDN has always been a focal point for the digitalisation of international shipping. ONE has previously conducted several rounds of e-BDN trials with partners. At the MEPC80 session in July 2023, the International Maritime Organization (IMO) approved the acceptance of bunker delivery notes (BDNs) in both hard copy and digital formats, provided they meet the relevant requirements of MARPOL Annex VI.
The e-BDN trial by ONE and Shell also comes ahead of MPA’s launch of its digital bunkering initiative to implement electronic bunkering processes and documentations from 1 November 2023, which is expected to save about 39,000 man-days per year for the bunker industry.
Mr. Teo Eng Dih, Chief Executive, MPA, commented: “MPA is encouraged by the successful completion of the digital bunkering trial and we look forward to implementing electronic bunkering processes and documentations in the Port of Singapore progressively from November 2023 onwards. Apart from ensuring more secured and transparent operations when used with Mass Flow Meters, e-BDN will help build higher levels of trust amongst bunker buyers, suppliers, and financial institutions, and enable a more efficient and resilient ecosystem. The adoption of digital documentations at scale will help reduce business costs at the port ecosystem level and bring greater value to stakeholders across the entire bunkering value chain.”
“We are excited to play a role in advancing e-BDN practices,” Mr. Jeremy Nixon, ONE CEO said. “By adopting e-BDN, we will have greater visibility and reliability of our bunkering operations and a more sustainable footprint.”
Operational Efficiency via the Vessel Digitalisation Program has been one of ONE’s five decarbonisation key initiatives to achieve net zero emissions by 2050. Together with industry partners, ONE is committed to further accelerating shipping digitalisation and reducing emissions.
Verified fuel savings of over 5% for seagoing vessel using SulNOxEco
SulNOx’s all-natural, fully biodegradable fuel conditioner continues to prove its value as a market-ready tool in the maritime industry’s arsenal to help meet International Maritime Organization (IMO) and EU regulations on vessel emissions.
During a five month-long trial in cooperation with a Hamburg-based shipping company and a renowned Northern German university for maritime shipping, fuel conditioner SulNOxEco™ reduced marine diesel consumption in a two-stroke marine diesel engine by more than 5% in real world conditions.
The evaluation project opens the door to significant fuel savings and emissions reductions across the maritime industry using SulNOx’s “no-capex”, drop-in fuel conditioners for a range of common marine fuels. The latest confirmation of the fuel conditioner’s efficacy demonstrates its potential to help shipowners and operators meet global and regional emissions regulations, such as the IMO’s Carbon Intensity Indicator (CII) and EU Emissions Trading System (EU ETS).
Ben Richardson (pictured), CEO of SulNOx commented: “Meeting the maritime industry’s emissions reductions target is an ecological and moral imperative and also makes perfect business sense. Shipowners face tough decisions on future fuel choices, but we must take action on decarbonisation today. Our fuel conditioners are an immediate, easy win to make the most of current fuels, save money and cut harmful emissions.”
“By adopting the SulNOx green technologies to improve fuel efficiency and reduce emissions, the industry can minimise its environmental impact as it strives towards a zero-carbon future,” he added.
SulNOxEco™ Diesel Conditioner was applied to the vessel’s fuel under real operating conditions during commercial voyages in the North Atlantic Ocean and Mediterranean Sea. Baseline measurements of fuel consumption on the two stroke MAN B&W 6S35MC engine were taken at 60% and 70% engine load, and then repeated using SulNOxEco™ treated fuel.
The project measured a consistent 5-6% reduction in specific fuel consumption using a 1:2000 ratio of SulNOxEco™ Diesel Conditioner in MDO fuel (DIN ISO 8217).
The project partners plan a further trial application of SulNOxEco™ on an engine running VLSFO where experts from the shipping company and the university expect an even greater fuel-saving effect.
Previous studies of SulNOxEco™ have shown a reduction in harmful PM 2.5 particulate matter emissions of over 60% and reduction in engine maintenance costs of around 2% thanks to the product’s impact by improved combustion, detergency and lubricity.
Shipshave opens new Athens office for its innovative in-transit cleaning of hulls solution
Shipshave is expanding its global reach by opening a new regional office for the Mediterranean in Athens to better serve clients at the strategic maritime hub in response to growing demand for its innovative in-transit cleaning of hulls (ITCH) solution.
The Norwegian technology company has established a local presence to be close to this important market as Greek ship owners operate a large part of the world fleet and have vessels that are in the ideal operational segment for the ITCH system, according to Shipshave CEO Aage Hoejmark.
The Athens office will be led by newly appointed Sales & Marketing Director for the Mediterranean, Argyris Michaletos, who boasts a strong maritime background along with a well-established and extensive contact network in the region.
“We are confident Argyris will be a valuable addition to our team who will help to boost our interaction with both the Greek and wider Mediterranean markets,” Hoejmark says.
“By establishing an office in Athens with our own staff, rather than acting through an agent, we are signalling that we are here for the long term and that we want to work closely with local owners and operators to help them enhance the operational efficiency and environmental performance of their fleets.”
Shipshave has documented significant fuel savings from successful trials of its cutting-edge technology on several ships for major shipping clients including Stolt Tankers, Teekay Tankers and Klaveness Combination Carriers.
The ITCH solution comprises a semi-autonomous hull-cleaning robot that is deployed from a portable winch on deck by the crew and uses soft brushes that swipe up and down the hull underwater to remove fouling during the voyage in an operation that takes about five hours for a Handysize.
Proactive cleaning of the hull reduces drag in the water and thereby improves hull performance to cut fuel consumption and emissions, while also avoiding off-hire for hull cleaning and saving time on port turnarounds to expand the operational window of a vessel.
“This makes the tool an enabler for voyage optimization, which is a hot topic as ship owners and operators pursue operational measures to increase fuel efficiency to meet the requirements of CII as well as the EU ETS set to be implemented for shipping from 2024,” Hoejmark says.
The Shipshave CEO will be highlighting the benefits of this technology in a presentation at the Ship Navigation and Voyage Optimization Summit in Athens on 1-2 November to coincide with the opening of the new office.
Hoejmark says being located in the Greek capital can give Shipshave increased business development potential through access to a vast network of shipping companies, suppliers and professionals.
“The proximity to key players in the industry facilitates stronger partnerships, streamlined logistics and faster decision-making processes. Additionally, being in the heart of the shipping industry fosters market intelligence, enabling Shipshave to stay ahead of trends and competitors,” he says.
“Moreover, the physical presence in Athens enhances the company’s credibility and trust among local and international clients. This hub provides an invaluable platform for networking, collaboration and expanding the client base.”
Hoejmark believes the move positions Shipshave for substantial growth and success in the maritime sector as the company has seen a surge of industry interest for the ITCH solution in the Mediterranean and elsewhere that underscores its market appeal and potential. “Its innovative features and adaptability have captured the attention of businesses and individuals alike,” he says.
The establishment of the Greek office is seen by Shipshave as a platform for a wider strategic ramp-up to be present in the world’s major shipping centres in line with the growth ambitions of the Stavanger-based start-up, which also has a Singapore office covering Asia Pacific.
“In order to grow fast, we need to be able to recruit global talent. We are also aware it is important to be close to both new and existing customers by having a local market presence. Optimal deployment of our technology to deliver our clients’ objectives depends on close cooperation with the customer,” Hoejmark concludes.
ERMA FIRST receives coveted Type Approval from South Korean flag for Ballast Water Treatment Solution
ERMA FIRST, a leading global provider of sustainable maritime solutions, has received the coveted South Korean flag Type Approval for its market-leading ERMA FIRST FIT BWTS.
Awarded by the administration of the Republic of Korea, the ERMA FIRST FIT BWTS is now one of the few non-domestic systems to hold such Type Approval, which is an essential requirement for systems being installed on South Korean flagged vessels.
Mr. Konstantinos Stampedakis (pictured), Co-Founder & Managing Director, ERMA FIRST, said: “ERMA FIRST has been supporting shipowners in Asia for many years and this Type Approval opens up a whole new market for the ERMA FIRST FIT BWTS ahead of the D2 Ballast Water Performance Standard deadline, in September 2024.
“We are delighted to have received this approval from the administration of the Republic of Korea. The addition of the Korean Type Approval means the system is now triple-accredited where Korean-flagged vessels are concerned, as it also holds IMO and USCG Type Approvals.”
Mr. Seong-Kyu Chae, Vice President, Magna Mare - ERMA FIRST’s agent in South Korea - added: “This is a meaningful milestone for ERMA FIRST in the Korean market. According to Korean Ministry of Oceans and Fisheries, around 9,000 vessels fly the South Korean flag, 2,000 of which are merchant ships. There is a huge opportunity to support vessels under the South Korean flag to meet the BWMS D2 standard using ERMA FIRST’s reliable and proven technologies, and Magna Mare is proud to serve ERMA FIRST and its customers in the region.”
The ERMA FIRST FIT BWTS is an advanced modular system suitable for both newbuild and retrofit projects. Credited with setting the industry benchmark for sustainable ballast water treatment, the major components of the system include a high-end backwash filter and electrolytic cell that perform to the highest standard. Covering an extensive capacity range of 50 – 3740 m3/hr and certified for operation in the most challenging conditions, ERMA FIRST FIT BWTS is the ideal solution for all types and sizes of ships.
Port of Rotterdam throughput falls by 6.0% in first three quarters
In the first nine months of 2023, there was 6% less throughput in the port of Rotterdam: 329.9 million tonnes compared to 351.0 million tonnes in the same period in 2022. The decline was mainly related to the throughput of containers and coal. Throughput of iron ore and scrap, agricultural bulk and LNG increased.
The port says the drop in the total throughput volume is the direct consequence of limited growth in the global economy and geopolitical tensions, which are driving falling world trade volumes and lower industrial production.
Boudewijn Siemons, interim CEO and COO of Port of Rotterdam Authority said: “As we expected, the throughput in the first nine months was lower than last year but is in line with our prognoses. The economy has not yet recovered and this continues to impact throughput figures.”
Global demand for freight is still lower than in 2022 as a result of inflation, limited economic growth, geopolitical tensions and higher spending on services rather than products. This has a knock-on effect on the throughput of containers in Rotterdam. The container segment saw a decline of 8.1% in weight and 7.2% in the number of containers (TEU, twenty feet equivalent unit) in the first nine months. The transhipment volumes increased by 8.1% in the third quarter of 2023.
In addition, roll-on/roll-off traffic (-3.8%) and other general cargo (-13.7%) fell as a result of reduced consumer spending, large stocks and lower investments. The total throughput in the breakbulk segment therefore fell by 6.0%.
The dry bulk segment declined by a total of 11.9% in the first nine months of the year. Although steel production dropped, the throughput of iron ore and scrap increased (6.8%). In recent months, blast furnaces were operating steadily and stocks of ore have been replenished. Coal throughput fell significantly (-16.8%), mainly because less coal was fired in power plants. The plants had stiff competition from solar, wind and gas. Therefore, several coal-fired power plants were left idle in recent months.
The growth of agribulk (40.7%) and drop in other dry bulk (-53.6%) is distorted due to administrative corrections. Without this skewed result, the increase in the agribulk segment was 4.6%. This is mainly because more soy was imported from South America. After correction, the throughput of other dry bulk fell by -23.9% due to lower demand for raw materials for construction and industrial production. In addition, this type of cargo was more frequently transported in containers due to the lower container rates.
The liquid bulk segment experienced a drop of 2.4%. The throughput of LNG rose slightly by 0.4%, as more LNG was imported to replace Russian pipeline gas. The other segments show a slight decline in throughput. Specifically, the throughput of crude oil fell by 1.9% as a result of increased maintenance work to the refineries, which reduced the supply of crude oil.
Mineral oil products dropped by 3.1% because less fuel oil is transported via Rotterdam following the sanctions on Russian oil products. Similarly, the categories within the segment other liquid bulk (including chemical products, biofuels, vegetable/animal oils and fruit juices) fell by 3.5%. Higher energy costs and lower capacity utilisation rates at plants in Europe meant that existing stocks were pared down.
WISTA International conference focuses on accelerating action on sustainability and diversity
The Women's International Shipping & Trading Association (WISTA) is setting the stage for transformative action in the maritime sector at its upcoming Annual General Meeting and Conference. To be held from 23 to 27 October 2023 in Montevideo, Uruguay, the conference aims to redefine Latin American shipping and trading under its theme: ‘Towards an Inclusive Greener Digital Future’. The conference aims to be a catalyst for impactful change across multiple areas of the maritime sector.
WISTA International President Elpi Petraki (pictured) encapsulates the urgency of the event's mission. "The time for mere discussion is over. The maritime industry stands at a critical juncture where issues of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) and sustainability must be transformed into actionable policies. It's imperative to engage and empower our workforce in driving this change. We all have a role to play in steering the industry towards a future that is both equitable and sustainable," she asserts.
In keeping with this ethos, the conference has a high-calibre roster of speakers and panellists. Among them are Kitack Lim, Secretary-General of IMO and the soon-to-be Secretary-General Arsenio Domínguez. Rear Admiral José Luis Elizondo, Chief of the Uruguayan Coast Guard, will also deliver a keynote address.
At the heart of the conference will be action-oriented panel sessions. Moderators and panellists will not only be thought leaders but also agents of change in their respective fields. Topics range from Latin America's emerging global trade role to the urgent need for diversity, from enhancing customer experiences in a digital age to charting a greener course for shipping.
Given the global nature of shipping and its unique challenges, the conference will also focus on Latin America's increasingly significant role in international trade. Recognizing the interwoven destinies of diverse geographical and cultural landscapes in shipping is vital for framing global and locally nuanced solutions.
To cement its commitment to fostering the next generation of female maritime leaders, WISTA is sponsoring 15 women from maritime academies to attend the conference. Supported by the TK Foundation, this initiative serves as a clarion call for industry-wide gender balance.
A staggering imbalance currently exists, with women constituting just 2% of the seafaring workforce and 29% of the broader maritime industry.
The conference serves not just as a hub for sharing insights but as a launchpad for tangible actions. To quote Petraki: "Actions indeed speak louder than words. This event is designed to catalyze change, sharing learned lessons and igniting collaborations that can navigate the industry towards a more equitable and sustainable future."
Intellian and Inmarsat sign agreement for development of next generation GMDSS Terminal
Intellian Technologies, Inc., leading global technology and solutions provider for satellite communications and Inmarsat Maritime, a Viasat business, have signed a Memorandum of Understanding for the development of a next generation GMDSS safety terminal, designed for operation over Inmarsat’s ELERA L-band network.
The new safety terminals will become the standard Inmarsat Maritime product for the next generation Fleet Safety service and will fulfil the requirements and performance standards of the IMO, as part of a range of maritime SOLAS approved ship borne equipment including Global Maritime Distress and Safety System (GMDSS), Long-Range Identification and Tracking (LRIT) system and Ship Security Alert System (SSAS).
Intellian’s GMDSS terminal will help to significantly enhance the safety of lives for the 1.9 million seafarers at sea around the world, and will be one the most technological advancements in safety services since the introduction of Inmarsat-C in 1991. The new safety terminal will allow a digital era of safety services to improve both preventative and reactive communications.
In addition to offering reliable access to Fleet Safety services, which includes an innovative Maritime Safety Information interface, the terminal features a Distress Chat function among its enhanced capabilities. This function automatically alerts the nearest Maritime Rescue Coordination Centre (MRCC) in case of an emergency on board, ensuring swift and coordinated response efforts. It also notifies nearby vessels, creating a network of support during critical situations.
Eric Sung, CEO of Intellian Technologies Inc., said: “We’re particularly proud of the development of this new GMDSS terminal and to have been entrusted by Inmarsat to develop this major innovation to their maritime safety portfolio. It’s a testament to our great partnership with Inmarsat, developing solutions that are innovative and reliable for customers all over the world.
“Our next-generation terminal that will vastly improve the safety of lives at sea for the 1.9 million seafarers and over 20 million passengers annually protected by the IMO’s policies. For our customers from shipyards to those going through a system upgrade, they’ll be able to have a complete Intellian solution on board.”
Peter Broadhurst, Senior Vice President Safety & Regulatory at Inmarsat Maritime, said: “Intellian has been a trusted partner of Inmarsat in advancing maritime communications, and we are excited to collaborate with them on the new Inmarsat Fleet Safety GMDSS terminal. This development represents a significant milestone in enhancing the safety of seafarers and passengers worldwide, and it underscores Inmarsat’s commitment to providing innovative and reliable solutions for the maritime industry and protecting lives at sea.”
Fincantieri to build two hybrid vessels for offshore windfarm support
Italian shipbuilding group Fincantieri, through its Norwegian-based subsidiary Vard, has entered into a contract with the Windward Offshore consortium to design and build two hybrid Commissioning Service Operation Vessels (CSOV) for sustainable offshore windfarm support. There is also an option for two more ships. The first CSOV is expected to be delivered in the second quarter of 2025.
The vessels will use green methanol and feature a hybrid battery system. The initial hull will be constructed in Romania, with final outfitting and delivery in Norway, while the second vessel will be built and delivered in Vung Tau, Vietnam.
The CSOVs will have a capacity for 120 people and are designed for a wide range of offshore windfarm support operations, emphasizing logistics, safety, comfort, and operational efficiency.
Pierroberto Folgiero, CEO and Managing Director of Fincantieri, commented: “This new order is a further confirmation of the expertise that Vard has developed in the CSOV market and strengthens the role of offshore wind as the third fundamental pillar of our business. Fincantieri can make a significant contribution to a technology that the whole world is investing in.”
Windward Offshore is a consortium, currently under establishment and led by SeaRenergy Group, the Offshore Wind Services arm of the Asian Spirit Steamship Company. The partners driving Windward Offshore's innovative venture are industry leaders: SeaRenergy Offshore Holding GmbH, Blue Star Group GmbH & Cie. KG, Diana Shipping Inc., and SeraVerse GmbH.
Columbia Group expands manning agency network with CSM Vietnam
The Columbia Group has opened a new manning agency, Columbia Shipmanagement Vietnam (CSM Vietnam), adding to its worldwide network of owned manning agencies.
The establishment of CSM Vietnam satisfies Columbia’s long-standing ambition to tap into the developing Vietnam seafarers’ market with direct access. Whilst CSM has been employing Vietnam seafarers for years via third-party arrangements, possessing its own manning agency in Vietnam for this purpose marks a crucial step for Columbia’s far-reaching initiatives in Vietnam and Asia, more generally.
Through the provision of manning solutions in Vietnam, Columbia strengthens its unwavering commitment to invest in people and attract the best talent locally, whilst simultaneously expanding its global presence and continuing to provide high-level support to Columbia’s rapidly diversified crew, as well as the evolving employment demands of its clients. CSM Vietnam is another important step on Columbia’s ‘march eastwards’ and echoes the growth ambitions of the Group in general.
Vietnam boasts a wealth of developments and investments in the maritime sector with a fleet that has doubled since 2005. Its strong domestic demand and exports have resulted in promising gains in employment, income, and confidence, contributing to Vietnam’s predicted growth and thriving maritime ecosystem. This local presence offers an opportunity for Columbia to build on and consolidate a loyal and highly qualified crew pool, enabling greater emphasis on training and career development.
Speaking about Columbia’s recent expansion, Mark O’Neil, President and CEO of Columbia Group, said: “Our people are our greatest asset. Our clients demand the best and most experienced seafarers, and we listen to them accordingly. With a developed and diversified maritime industry, the expansion into Vietnam was a natural step for Columbia to take and invest in creating employment for its people and a general interest in a career at sea. Through this venture, Columbia can further deliver on its unwavering commitment of being the leading maritime services provider worldwide.”
He added: “We are tremendously excited to work with strong Vietnamese seafarers who share our vision.”
Towards Vision 2030: developing integrated, resilient and sustainable logistics in Saudi Arabia
Saudi Global Ports (SGP), a joint venture between the Public Investment Fund (PIF), Al Blagha Group and PSA International, has reaffirmed its commitment to the transformation of Saudi Arabia’s ports and logistics through expanded partnerships with the Saudi Ports Authority (Mawani) and the Saudi Ministry of Investment.
Notably, SGP and Mawani signed an agreement to establish an approximately 1 million square metres integrated logistics zone at King Abdulaziz Port Dammam (KAPD - pictured). The agreement was signed by the President of Mawani His Excellency Mr Omar bin Talal Hariri and the CEO of SGP Mr Edward Tah in the presence of Saudi Arabia Minister for Transport and Logistic Services His Excellency Saleh Al Jasser and Singapore Minister for Manpower and Second Minister for Trade and Industry Dr Tan See Leng in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia last week.
The Minister of Energy, His Royal Highness Prince Abdulaziz Bin Salman and Deputy Minister for Transport and Logistic Services His Excellency Dr Rumaih Al Rumaih were also present. The signing took place in tandem with Singapore Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong’s official visit to Saudi Arabia.
Under the agreement, SGP is slated to invest about SAR 1 billion (USD 267 million) to develop the integrated logistics zone and is studying the options for bonded warehouses and modern cold store capabilities. There are also plans to incorporate sustainability elements such as hybrid and electric equipment and solar panels into the development.
The development of the integrated logistics zone builds on SGP’s continuing partnership with Mawani on its Vision 2030 roadmap to transform Saudi Arabia into a global logistics centre and hub connecting Asia, Africa and Europe. As the operator of the container terminals at KAPD, the Riyadh Dry Port Ecosystem and the future integrated logistics zone, SGP will become well positioned as a supply chain orchestrator, realising its vision to become the national champion for resilient and sustainable logistics in Saudi Arabia.
SGP had also signed an MOU with the Ministry of Investment at the 3rd Saudi-Singapore Joint Committee Meeting (SSJC) to jointly identify investment opportunities in the supply chain and logistics sector, including in the training and development of the workforce and port ancillary services. The SSJC was co-chaired by Minister Saleh Al Jasser and Minister Tan See Leng in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia on 17 October 2023.
President of Mawani, His Excellency Mr Omar bin Talal Hariri affirmed that the new integrated logistics park will be part of the Mawani’s initiative to expand the number of logistics parks within Saudi Arabia ports to 12. The expansion is expected to elevate the Kingdom’s position in the global logistics services performance index from its current 38th place to the 10th place. Furthermore, it will solidify Saudi Arabia’s regional leadership in logistics.
Chairman of the Board for Saudi Global Ports, Mr Abdulla Zamil expressed SGP’s appreciation for the support and trust of Mawani and the Ministry of Investment which have allowed SGP to provide integrated, resilient, and sustainable supply chain solutions in Saudi Arabia. He added that SGP, through its technical partner PSA’s global network of ports, will also help to spur the growth of the Kingdom’s role as the regional and global hub for logistics.
Regional CEO of Middle East and South Asia and Head of Group Business Development for PSA International, Mr Vincent Ng said: “PSA is excited to be part of the dynamic growth in the transport and logistics services sector in the Kingdom. We remain committed to being alongside Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 journey and stand ready to support with PSA’s expertise and experience in supply chain orchestration and the development of logistics zones.”
Silverstream Technologies signs Agreement in Principle with China Classification Society
Maritime clean technology company Silverstream Technologies has signed an Agreement in Principle (AIP) with China Classification Society (CCS), a leading member of the International Association of Classification Societies, and the primary class society in China that serves the shipping, offshore and related industrial industries.
This is Silverstream’s first agreement of this nature with a classification society. The AIP confirms that CCS has reviewed and verified the Silverstream® System’s design drawings and provides an independent class verification of its generic system design. Furthermore, the organisations will collaborate on project-specific engagements and approvals for the integration of the Silverstream® System in ships classed by CCS.
The AIP further strengthens Silverstream’s ties to the Chinese shipping market. The company has an office and team in Shanghai, 20 of whom are purely dedicated to on-the-ground support for Asian installations of its technology. The Shanghai team is critical to Silverstream’s continued collaboration in China and enables the company to be at the very heart of one of the global shipping industry’s most important hubs.
Noah Silberschmidt, Founder & CEO, Silverstream Technologies, said: “We are delighted to sign our first agreement of this style with a classification society, especially with CCS. CCS is one of the most influential class societies in the Chinese market, particularly for intranational projects between Chinese shipowners and Chinese shipyards. Through this important agreement, we look forward to further building our relationship with a key industry player, and to continuing commercial success in Asia and worldwide.”
Silverstream recently became one of the founding members of the Global Sustainable Transport Innovation Alliance (GSTIA), an initiative sponsored by the Chinese Ministry of Transport, designed to accelerate green industrial projects within China. Silverstream is a founding member alongside Airbus, Siemens, Maersk, Volvo, Alibaba, CMA CGM, COSCO, DHL and China Merchants Group. As decarbonisation leaders in their respective industries, the members will share knowledge and expertise to help promote green projects within China over an initial five-year period. More information on the projects will be shared via Silverstream and GSTIA channels in due course.
The news of Silverstream’s involvement in the GSTIA follows other recent China-based announcements for the company, with a range of agreements being signed with Chinese shipyards. These include a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with COSCO Shipping Heavy Industry, and 10 new system orders for LNG carriers, many of which will be built at leading Chinese yards.
Circularise partners with GoodFuels on digital traceability solution for biofuels supply chains
Circularise and GoodFuels, FincoEnergies’ sustainable fuels brand, have announced their project to digitise the biofuels record management process required for RED II compliance.
Throughout this innovative project, FincoEnergies shared their knowledge on bookkeeping processes with Circularise to expand its MassBalancer traceability software suite to include the biofuels supply chain, adding ISCC EU certification as an additional supported framework.
The European Union’s RED II regulation aims to ensure that biofuels provide a truly sustainable alternative to fossil fuels. As part of this regulation, records must be maintained for the sourcing, chain of custody, and GHG emissions of the biofuel product process and then verified by a third-party certification scheme such as ISCC EU. This process of bookkeeping is currently a manual process of companies exchanging information from pdfs and spreadsheets, which can be costly and time-consuming.
Adding a digital method of record management will increase information security and ease-of-use for any organisation that needs to report their biofuels feedstock and supply chains. By digitising the record keeping process, information on the chain of custody and GHG emissions of the biofuel products can be efficiently audited, supporting a trustworthy and fair marine biofuels industry.
Paul Bakker, Digital Development Manager at FincoEnergies, said: “Transparency and trust are critical to the supply chains of all marine fuels, but especially biofuels, where we must be able to demonstrate our sustainability claims easily and with confidence. Through our GoodFuels brand, we are dedicated to leading sustainability within the biofuels market, which is why we are pleased to be able to support Circularise to improve the digital reporting process."
Jordi de Vos, co-founder of Circularise, said: “By leveraging digital technologies to trace the chain of custody and impact of the biofuels, we can shed light on opaque supply chains and guarantee that these fuels serve as a truly sustainable alternative to fossil fuels. Our partnership with GoodFuels is a testament to our shared commitment to drive transparency and sustainability in the energy sector.”
Going forward, FincoEnergies will test this software with their GoodFuels customers to ensure a robust information transfer process. By shifting from manual methods to software grounded in RED II principles, Circularise will assist FincoEnergies in ensuring the prevention of double counting of biofuel credits, further enhancing trust and transparency throughout the value chain. This collaboration will continue to explore ways for FincoEnergies to enable its downstream customers to fairly allocate the use of GoodFuels biofuels within their sustainability reporting. This commitment to fair and transparent practices underscores the shared vision of both FincoEnergies and Circularise for a more sustainable future.
Prudential Shipping and Pace Marine introduce STS services at Hambantota Port
Prudential Shipping by MendisOne, one of Sri Lanka’s fast-growing shipping agencies, has joined forces with Pace Marine, India to enhance maritime operations at the Hambantota International Port to commence Ship-To-Ship Operations (STS Operations).
STS transfer operations involving the direct transfer of cargo - such as oil, liquefied petroleum gas (LPG), liquefied natural gas (LNG) and other bulk commodities - between two vessels at sea have gained traction due to their ability to optimise port resources, reduce congestion, and minimize transportation costs.
The Hambantota International Port, nestled on the southern coast of Sri Lanka, is one of the region’s upcoming commercial ports that can leverage STS operations to its advantage. The port's strategic location along major shipping routes makes it an ideal candidate for STS activities. By enabling direct vessel-to-vessel cargo transfers, the Hambantota International Port can attract more shipping traffic, bolster its revenue streams, and contribute significantly to the economic development of the region.
STS operations require specialised equipment, highly skilled personnel, and adherence to stringent safety and environmental IMO regulations. Prudential Shipping brings with it a plethora of assets to cater to the distinctive requirements of the venture. This includes a series of pneumatic fenders, flexible hoses, state-of-the-art fibre ropes, SS adaptors, wire slings, and a 17T bow shackle. Together with this, rigorous planning, communication, and coordination are guaranteed by Prudential Shipping to ensure smooth cargo transfer and minimal risks.
Prudential Shipping is part of the MendisOne Group of Companies, which recently commemorated 25 years of business excellence serving an international cohort of stakeholders. Together with its other subsidiaries Premium Trading and Logistics and Helanka Vacations, the Group has thrived in the fields of shipping, customs house brokerage, trade and logistics, leisure services, and event management.
The introduction of STS operations at the Hambantota International Port marks a significant milestone in the MendisOne Group’s journey. By expanding its operational capabilities, the Group stands true to its vision of the Growth and Development of Sri Lankan businesses across borders.
Cyber security a fundamental consideration says NAVTOR
Digital technology hasn’t just transformed maritime operations, it’s created an entirely new, and continually shifting, risk reality where cyber security must be a key consideration for an industry keen to chart a safe, smart and sustainable way forward.
“Cyber security isn’t an add-on consideration, or an optional extra, for today’s shipping businesses,” states Tyr Steffensen, NAVTOR’s new Cyber Security Officer. “In an era of ever-increasing connectivity, with a constantly evolving threat landscape, it should be absolutely integral to everyday operations.”
He continues: “Digital technology offers a huge spectrum of benefits, but it also opens the door to a new breed of risk. That is something everybody needs to understand… and keep absolutely front of mind.”
Steffensen doesn’t just think this, he knows it. After a lengthy career as an analyst and advisor in law enforcement, most recently at Norway’s National Criminal Investigation Service (Kripos), he has first-hand experience of how ‘bad actors’ can exploit digital opportunity to wreak havoc upon unsuspecting victims. It’s expertise he’s now transferring to a shipping context with his new role as Cyber Security Officer at leading maritime technology company NAVTOR.
“I see cybercrime and cyber security as two sides of the same coin,” he says.
“Having an understanding of the criminal perspective allows teams to build the best possible defences, identifying potential weaknesses, or evolving areas of threat, and working proactively to address them. That’s essential within an industry that is becoming increasingly digitized, utilising technology to enhance efficiency, safety, control and sustainability. We need to protect this progress, ensuring these new strengths don’t become our Achille’s Heel.”
Steffersen’s recruitment is a natural step forward for NAVTOR, which has built its position as the world’s leading supplier of ENC-based services, e-Navigation innovations, and performance monitoring and management solutions on a platform of trusted partnership. The company was an early mover in achieving ‘cyber secure’ certification from DNV, receiving IEC 61162-460 Gateway approval for NavBox, which automates the distribution and updates of digital charts, publications and other navigational data, back in 2019. The solution has now become the lynchpin in a fully integrated, digital ecosystem that connects ships, fleets, shoreside operations and entire businesses, enabling powerful smart shipping benefits.
“If you’re going to build safely, you must have solid foundations,” Steffensen comments, “and that’s what NavBox provides. It delivers true cyber security from the ground up, helping our customers unlock competitive advantage safe in the knowledge that their data is under virtual ‘lock and key’.”
But trust, he says, has to be earned. “I think that’s one of the chief reasons NAVTOR created this dedicated role,” Steffensen opines. “As a company we realise there is absolutely zero room for complacency and we, indeed the whole industry, have to continually work for improvements.”
He elaborates: “If you build a wall to keep criminals out you can’t just leave it – they’ll eventually scale it, find a way around it, or dig under it. And that’s especially true as the thing they’re trying to steal, in this case data, becomes more valuable.
“So, we see this as an ongoing job and are committed to tirelessly working to protect our systems, data, and customer information, building strong digital trust with all our industry stakeholders.”
Steffensen’s arrival comes at an opportune moment, with October 2023 deemed as Cybersecurity Awareness Month – shining a worldwide spotlight on this key issue. Something that, he says, is particularly relevant for the maritime industry.
“I don’t think cybersecurity gets the attention it deserves within the maritime arena,” he says. “Awareness is certainly growing, but I’d argue the level of threat is growing far quicker. We need to address this.”
From his personal perspective that’s exactly what he’ll be focusing on in the coming months, working to reduce risk, increase compliance, and enable business goals – both for NAVTOR and its thousands of global customers:
“As a company we’ve always been dedicated to finding optimal routes ahead, with enhanced efficiency, safety, profitability, sustainability and, of course, security for the vessels and businesses we serve.
“I’ll be looking forward to ensuring NAVTOR, and its customers, continue to lead the way, and to do so securely, far into the future.”
ABS sets sight on ambitious project to class 3D-printed propeller
ABS is joining Mencast Marine (MMPL), the Singapore University of Technology and Design (SUTD), and the National Additive Manufacturing Innovation Cluster (NAMIC) on a project to manufacture and class a 3D-printed propeller.
The collaborative project builds upon a Memorandum of Understanding signed by ABS and MMP (pictured) that is focused on additive manufacturing (AM), also known as 3D printing, for critical maritime components.
The new initiative has an objective to 3D-print a ship propeller using cutting-edge Wire Arc Additive Manufacturing (WAAM) techniques with a goal to achieve high-quality, low build-time, and support-free prints aligned with the rigorous ABS Classification standards for propeller production.
“AM technologies have a huge potential to revolutionize supply chain and maintenance procedures both in maritime and beyond, and ABS is committed to supporting these innovations without compromising safety,” said Gareth Burton, ABS Vice President of Technology. “Singapore is a critical location of the emerging regional and global green ecosystems, of which Additive Manufacturing is certain to play a role.”
“Additive Manufacturing represents the dawn of limitless possibilities in the maritime industry,” said Glenndle Sim, CEO of Mencast Group. “It emerges as the game-changer, revolutionizing the way we approach complex and labor-intensive components. At Mencast, we see it as the bridge between traditional craftsmanship and future-forward innovation.”
"Singapore's first class-certified ship propeller by ABS, commissioned by Mencast, will be developed and manufactured with SUTD’s proprietary hybrid wire-arc additive manufacturing platform (H-WAAM),” said Dr. Ho Chaw Sing, CEO of NAMIC. “This marks a significant step towards supporting our local leading subject matter experts to transform towards digital and sustainable manufacturing processes as part of Singapore Maritime’s industry transformation roadmap. This project represents the culmination of a multi-year effort riding on public-private partnerships, pulling through promising AM research into technology solutions that can be adopted by the industry, to support Singapore’s 2030 manufacturing vision and net-zero goals.”
“We are excited to be part of Mencast’s innovation journey towards Industry 4.0 Transformation,” said Dr. Soh Gim Song, Associate Professor and Director of Education at SUTD. “We look forward to working with them to translate our hybrid wire arc AM research into the production of Class propellers.”
Rafael Fernandez elected as next ISSA President
Rafael Fernandez from Spain has been elected as the next President of the International Shipsuppliers & Services Association (ISSA), the global trade body representing the interests of 1,500 ship suppliers around the world.
The 40 National Associations of ISSA, who form the ISSA Assembly, elected Mr Fernandez during a vote prior to this year’s ISSA conference in Dubai.
Mr Fernandez has sat on the ISSA Executive Board for 12 years, and will take over as President from January 1, 2024.
Speaking after his election, he praised the work of the outgoing President Saeed Al Malik, saying he had created a strong foundation from which to grow ISSA.
“I am delighted to have been elected as the next ISSA President and I will work hard to ensure that ISSA continues to represent the interests of this very important global maritime sector.
“Global trade needs ships and ships cannot travel without being supplied so the work of our members is vital around the world, and I will continue to work with our fellow international ship owner and ship manager trade associations to ensure the voice of the ship supplier is heard.
“I am delighted to announce that the venue for next year’s ISSA Convention will be in Seville in Spain and we look forward to welcoming ship suppliers as well as owners and managers to that event,” he said.
Xeneta Summit: Shipping industry must invest and build partnerships to reduce carbon
Industry leaders have been told achieving environmental targets in ocean freight shipping requires major efforts and investments. The reminder came during the annual Xeneta Summit taking place in Amsterdam yesterday, which saw key industry figures come together to discuss the major issues facing ocean freight shipping.
Rolf Habben Jansen, Chief Executive of Hapag Lloyd, delivered a keynote speech to delegates during which he emphasized the necessity for the industry to further step up their efforts.
He said: “Shipping remains the most cost-effective and eco-friendly mode of transport, but the industry is highly volatile and cyclical.
“After some exceptional years, we have returned to rougher seas, with low freight rates and imbalances between supply and demand impending.
“Aspects such as maintaining a competitive cost position, making sensible investments for better market access, and delivering high quality will become even more important.
“And so will decarbonisation – despite rising funding costs and the question of alternative fuel availability, the sector must prioritize cleaner practices and lower-emission transport solutions. This will require we invest in and form partnerships to help scale up especially the production of green fuels.”
“After all, sustainability is a collective task and together we can move faster than alone.”
This year’s summit follows the release of Xeneta’s Ocean Freight Shipping Outlook 2024 which branded the current market as ‘unsustainable’.
Combined with the impending introduction of the EU Emissions Trading Scheme (EU ETS) and more stringent application of the IMO’s Carbon Intensity Indicator (CII) in 2024, it is unsurprising the green agenda topped the bill during the Xeneta Summit.
Patrik Berglund, Xeneta Chief Executive, told delegates he believes carbon emissions targets are unrealistic in the current financial climate.
He said: “In the decade prior to Covid-19 ocean shipping liners hardly made any money and there was massive consolidation in the industry. Then during the pandemic, they made a fortune in the space of a couple of years.
“Now we’re asking them to risk all that financial security by investing vast sums of money on the infrastructure needed to achieve carbon emissions targets.
“History tells us that is a colossal risk to take on when you consider there are absolutely no guarantees the currently unsustainable market will turn in the favour of the ocean shipping liners.”
Berglund echoed comments made by Rolf Habben Jansen regarding collective responsibility and warned shippers they will have to pay their way if they want a greener future.
He said: “Currently, shippers are saying they are going to pay so little to transport their goods around the world that the ocean shipping liner companies will lose money. Then in the next breath they are asking those same companies to invest staggering sums of money on new, climate-friendly vessels.
“Unfortunately, the harsh reality of business will always prevail and environmental responsibilities will be cast aside in favour of financial sustainability.
“Everyone has good intentions when it comes to protecting the environment, but no one is prepared to pick up the bill. Without a change in attitudes the carbon emissions targets are doomed to failure.”
Xeneta is the world’s leading ocean and air freight rate benchmarking and analytics platform and delegates at the summit discussed ways for the industry to move forward, including the introduction of index-based pricing.
Berglund added: “Index-based pricing instruments could provide greater transparency and fairness from a shipper perspective and hedge some of the risk from an ocean shipping liner perspective, so they feel more able to invest in the future.”
KR signs MoU with HD Hyundai Global Service to strengthen digital carbon reduction solutions
Korean Register (KR) and HD Hyundai Global Service have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to cooperate on their verification of maritime carbon reduction solutions, at this week’s Kormarine 2023 event held in Busan, South Korea.
As decarbonisation regulations are gradually being strengthened, shipping companies are actively utilising digital technology to reduce carbon emissions more efficiently. The two organizations signed the MoU to respond to these changes and cooperate closely for the development of ‘shipping and maritime big data and artificial intelligence (AI) technology’, a convergence of digital and carbon-neutral technologies.
Through this agreement, HD Hyundai Global Service plans to develop a monitoring system for carbon emissions using AI technology, forecasting and management solutions providing API (application programming interfaces), and data-related scenarios before and after applying carbon reduction solutions. KR will review the accuracy of ‘OceanWise’, the latest solution of HD Hyundai Global Service, and develop objective standards about the effectiveness of carbon reduction solutions.
LEE Hyungchul, Chairman and CEO of KR said: “In this challenging time with strengthened international decarbonisation regulations, it is essential for shipping companies to find efficient ways to reduce carbon emissions to secure competitiveness, and the convergence with digital technology will be the solution. We will fully support the industry to achieve more progress in eco-beneficial digital technology through the collaboration with HD Hyundai Global Service.”
LEE Kidong, CEO of HD Hyundai Global Service added: “We are glad to be able to officially prove the value of our solution with the cooperation of KR. Our carbon footprint monitoring system will meet the various industry demands regarding carbon emission management and it will be a very useful tool for exploring new business opportunities.”
Danelec extends VDR Remote Services to include equipment configuration functionality
Leading maritime operational and safety technology company Danelec is making it even easier for ship owners and managers to stay compliant to SOLAS Voyage Data Recorder (VDR) regulations by adding one touch secure remote configuration to its innovative Remote Services.
Already providing comprehensive VDR health monitoring, service preparation and instant access to recorded data, VDR Remote Services offer unparalleled marine data accessibility and operational efficiency for Danelec customers. A multi-pronged approach aimed at improving safety and reducing operational expenses, the Services make it possible to detect potential VDR issues at the earliest stage while enabling careful service planning and readiness for Annual Performance Tests (APT) and the ability to download VDR data from shore to speed up incident investigation.
The new functionality is an agile solution for swift over-the-air configuration changes, helping to rectify errors and reconfigure VDRs remotely in order to mitigate the need for unplanned service calls and effectively ensuring that vessels and fleets can easily maintain VDR compliance. The system grants certified technicians remote configuration capabilities using a secure end-to-end connection, allowing for seamless coordination with technical partners and a proactive approach for timely fixes that can ensure vessels remain operational and are able to arrive or leave port on schedule.
Claus Borum, Danelec's CTO, said: “Our continued dedication to remaining at the technological forefront of the VDR market is about both our hardware platform and the integration of value-added over-the-air services. This approach means that we can transform the VDR from being a mere regulatory requirement into a proactive tool that serves the dual objectives of enhancing maritime safety and boosting operational efficiency."
Danelec offers seamless remote access through its VDR Remote Services for €840 annually per vessel. In addition to the new remote configuration function, the fee covers all existing VDR Remote Services:
- The comprehensive Monitoring service provides an overview of the VDR and all connected devices and sensors. Real-time VDR status monitoring aids in the timely detection of potential equipment concerns, helping to secure compliance and empower crew on-board to promptly address minor issues while at sea, significantly reducing the risk of high-cost emergency repairs.
- Service Preparation Alarm & Pre-APT enables users to start a pre-Annual Performance Test remotely for early problem detection. This proactive methodology enhances collaboration with technical partners, ensuring punctual APT compliance. Danelec's unique VDR data Dump for Support feature also allows technicians to remotely evaluate VDR health, preparing for en-route repairs or the forthcoming port call.
- With Instant Remote Data Access, it is easy to remotely obtain VDR recordings from specified periods quickly and securely through a secure end-to-end connection for investigation purposes. Regular extraction and evaluation of VDR data also helps to spot operational trends or potential safety issues while the recordings provided by the service offer a deep dive into crew interactions, emphasizing areas of possible safety improvement for training that can improve maritime safety standards.
Danelec says its VDR Remote Services accommodate the safety and compliance challenges of ship owners, ship managers and safety officers by unlocking unparalleled access to ship data and actionable insights, enabling efficient service checks anywhere in that world and providing early detection of potential equipment issues.
Incat selects SSI’s shipbuilding solution for next-generation Buquebus catamaran ferry
Software supplier SSI is supply its ShipConstructor design and modelling solution to Tasmania’s Incat shipyard. The system has been selected by Incat to support structural modelling for two hull modules of Hull 096, a 130m battery-electric Ro-Pax catamaran under construction for Buquebus of Uruguay.
Incat and its partner Revolution Design chose SSI’s ShipConstructor system, the SSI design and engineering solution, to deliver specific benefits for this complex project, including centralised data management, automation and standardisation of design outputs, 3D visualisation on the shop floor and improved materials tracking.
The project also includes delivery of a digital twin, created from data held within ShipConstructor, to facilitate a clear overview of vessel configuration, supporting efficient operations and lifecycle maintenance.
Hull 096 will be the world’s largest 100% battery-electric ferry, featuring an energy storage system of 40MWh, four times larger than any previous marine battery installation. The batteries power a series of electric motors which drive the water jet propulsion system. The electrical system integration is by Wärtsilä and ESS by Corvus Energy.
Incat is adopting ShipConstructor with the project already in progress, underscoring to its belief that SSI can successfully deploy the solution, train and support shipyard personnel at high speed across relevant teams. Incat anticipates that all primary structures of its next shipbuilding projects will be developed using the SSI shipbuilding system.
“Incat has always been an innovator and once again we are demonstrating our approach to advanced technology solutions by adopting ShipConstructor to support this complex project,” said Stewart Wells, Incat Technical Manager. “SSI demonstrated an understanding of our challenges and how to effectively manage the design, modelling and data handling processes across all departments and disciplines.”
“Success with complex shipbuilding projects like Hull 096 calls for smarter information sharing across the shipyard, reducing waste and costs and generating a digital twin that can sustain lifecycle operations,” said Simon Crook, Solutions Specialist, SSI. “This contract lays the foundation for a long-term relationship between SSI and Incat and demonstrates confidence that Incat’s engineers will have success with the new tool in a production environment from day one.”
Bearing AI releases Fleet Deployment Optimizer
Silicon Valley-based Bearing AI, the AI Decision Engine for the maritime industry, has launched an AI-powered Fleet Deployment Optimizer. This industry-first product was developed with in-depth feedback from leading global shipping company, and Bearing AI customer, Hapag-Lloyd.
Built on Bearing AI’s Decision Engine platform, the Fleet Deployment Optimizer helps customers accurately simulate future emissions and instantly compare the efficiency of different vessels across potential schedules. This tool helps customers maximize environmental compliance while still considering service requirements, fleet composition and other critical business needs.
Fleet Deployment Optimizer helps companies:
- Easily track the predicted CII (Carbon Intensity Indicator) performance of multiple vessels in one simple view, accounting for adjustments such as reefer usage
- Accurately simulate emissions performance under different scenarios, predicting the resultant CII score from moving high-performing or more problematic vessels to an alternative service
- Determine the optimal fleet deployment plan based on various objectives: e.g., minimizing the number of vessels receiving CII ratings of D and E across the entire fleet.
Bearing AI is committed to pushing the boundary in maritime emissions management. Hapag-Lloyd also shares this commitment and was a natural collaborator with Bearing on the development of this product. Both parties understand that technology will play an important role in enabling companies to meet their emissions reduction goals while still maintaining service reliability and profitability.
During the collaborative development of the Fleet Deployment Optimizer, Bearing AI combined its expertise in Artificial Intelligence with Hapag-Lloyd’s industry insights to ensure the Fleet Deployment Optimizer tackled some of the most pressing emissions-related challenges facing companies today.
"We’re delighted to be working closely with Hapag-Lloyd, a company that’s passionate about the future of this industry. They share our dedication to developing and applying technologies that pave the way for more sustainable operations in this new green era of global shipping”, Bearing AI Co-Founder and CEO Dylan Keil said. “Fleet Deployment Optimizer is one of the most significant recent developments in fleet management and it's just the beginning – we’re excited to unveil its full potential, and continue to rapidly innovate with industry-leading customers like Hapag-Lloyd.”
As part of Bearing’s broader AI Decision Engine platform, Fleet Deployment Optimizer is continuously improving and Bearing plans on launching a series of enhancements in the near future. For example, Bearing is currently in the process of adding additional support for EU ETS. Ultimately, Bearing AI’s Decision Engine platform will not only help shipping companies make more data-driven decisions, it can help transform how the industry operates.
Transformational technologies shaping shipping’s future discussed at ABS Korea National Committee meeting
ABS hosted its annual meeting of the Korea National Committee, bringing together maritime leaders from around the country to discuss the latest developments in technology, sustainability, regulations and market trends in the shipping industry.
Committee members heard from ABS President and COO John McDonald who reported that ABS has secured the number one position in global orderbook share and grown the fleet to 285 million gross tons, with more than 11,400 assets.
“Together with Korean shipyards and owners, we are working on cutting edge projects that will shape the future of our industry, driving significant sustainability and performance outcomes for our clients,” said McDonald. “ABS is proud to be the class of choice for Korean shipyards and to support the innovation we will need to reach 2050.”
Vassilios Kroustallis, ABS Senior Vice President, Global Business Development, briefed the committee on major market trends and provided a projection of how the global fleet may be impacted by global economics, geopolitics, decarbonization and the appetite for new technologies.
Stamatis Fradelos, ABS Vice President, Regulatory Affairs, provided an informative presentation on the latest developments in the dynamic regulatory environment, including the statutory legislation driving significant changes in the maritime industry, which generated many questions and input from the members.
Sung-Ick Kim, President and CEO for SK Shipping, kicked-off the committee meeting by complimenting ABS for its technical and regulatory insight as well as highlighting key topics for members such as EU carbon trading schemes, the impact of CII requirements, future fuels and decarbonization technologies.
Kyou-Bong Lee President and CEO of Hyundai LNG Shipping spoke at the ABS dinner reception on the prior evening, recognizing the participation of more than 30 high profile members from the Korean shipping and shipbuilding community that “will provide important insight into the future of our industry.”
The committee meetings are a forum for ABS members, including owners, operators, charterers, and industry representatives from flag Administrations, owner associations, and the shipbuilding and insurance sectors, to come together with ABS leaders and discuss safety and other industry issues and developments. These forums are an important part of an ongoing dialogue with the industry to address technical, operational and regulatory challenges.
Svanehøj develops complete high-pressure marine pump unit for LNG fuel
As demand for LNG-fuelled vessels remains high, the marine pump specialist Svanehøj can now offer a high-pressure pump solution for two-stroke engines – a compact unit with three combined cold ends designed for optimal flow and longer service intervals.
High-pressure LNG engines offer lower fuel consumption and significantly reduced methane slips. This is driving a surge in demand for crucial components for LNG high-pressure fuel supply systems, which Svanehøj is now ready to meet.
Drawing from extensive expertise in cryogenic solutions, the Danish marine pump specialist has developed a high-pressure fuel pump unit with a drive system and three combined cold ends designed for optimal flow and longer service intervals. The new solution, called ‘HPP Triplex Unit (pictured), is pre-launched at Kormarine in Busan, Korea, this week.
“It is evident that more integrators of fuel gas supply systems are taking on a progressively substantial role in designing fuel supply systems, especially for LNG-powered vessels,” says Johnny Houmann, CSO in Svanehøj. “Therefore, they increasingly require critical components specially designed to operate under extremely low temperatures and high pressures. Based on decades of experience in low-pressure fuel and cargo pumps for LNG, we made a strategic decision to extend our scope and include a larger part of the LNG fuel supply system by developing a high-pressure pump unit, exclusively designed for maritime purposes.”
Svanehøj has designed the HPP Triplex Unit to meet the maritime industry's demands for leak-free critical components with a long service life. The cold end includes an innovative low-pressure sealing arrangement that reduces friction, ensuring longer service intervals. To further reduce maintenance costs, Svanehøj has developed a cartridge solution for swift sealing replacement. To ensure high efficiency and low-pressure drop, Svanehøj has also incorporated a new inlet valve design.
As part of its ESG strategy, Svanehøj is committed to directing 95% of its R&D investments at solutions and products that support the energy transition in the hard-to-abate sectors. This includes pumps and equipment for carbon capture, Power-to-X, and LNG. In recent years, Svanehøj has invested significantly in new products and services for the LNG segment, including a new submerged fuel pump, launched in 2022, and the acquisition of the US-based specialist in service and overhaul of LNG pumps, Complete Cryogenic Services (CCS), in 2023.
“In the ideal scenario, all ships would operate on carbon-free fuels tomorrow,” says Søren Kringelholt Nielsen, CEO at Svanehøj. “However, it will take several years to establish an infrastructure to meet the need for liquid renewable energy. Transition fuels are essential for a successful energy transition, and natural gas is by far the best option – with significant environmental benefits.
“In Svanehøj, we are committed to continuously innovating our product portfolio designs and service models at the lowest possible environmental lifecycle cost.”
The uptake of LNG has been high in recent years, especially among new buildings. According to the DNV database for alternative fuels, there are now 431 LNG-powered ships in operation and another 539 ships on order, bringing the total count close to 1,000 vessels. In 2021 and 2022 alone, 462 LNG-fuelled ships were ordered, and in the first nine months of 2023, a further 104 ships were added to the global order book.
Kongsberg Maritime and BMA Technology join forces for electrical systems innovation
Kongsberg Maritime and BMA Technology have formed a strategic collaboration alliance to support the supply of low voltage electrical products and engineering services to Turkish shipyards.
BMA Technology, based in the Gebze Organized Industrial Zone, east of Istanbul, is a technology company providing electrical system solutions for the marine industry.
As part of the alliance agreement, BMA Technology will manufacture, assemble and test Kongsberg Maritime low voltage electrical products in its facility in Türkiye. The company will also provide engineering support and perform commissioning work on the products at the local shipyards, working alongside the Kongsberg Maritime team in Istanbul.
Mr. Knut Ivar Dybdal, Senior Vice President from Kongsberg Maritime, said: “We’re delighted to have formed this alliance with BMA Technology, which will transform the way we can provide local, dedicated support and supply high-quality electrical products directly to the numerous Turkish shipyards.
“As the shipping industry moves towards more electrification of vessels, we need to evolve the range of products and services we can provide. This strategic alliance brings both companies together with a shared goal of providing more advanced electrical propulsion solutions directly to shipyards. It also has the added benefit of a local, highly skilled and dedicated team able to work closely with the ship builders, through installation and commissioning of these complex electrical systems.”
BMA Technology is an electrical solution provider, with a prime focus on development, software engineering and production of systems for electrical propulsion of ships. Its electrical systems are installed on a growing number of vessels, across a range of sectors, including fishing, offshore, tugboats and passenger.
Mr Ferhat Özdamar, Chairman of Board, of BMA Technology expressed his contentment in this strategic partnership, saying: “This strategic partnership is a momentous occasion for us. We are enthusiastic to join forces with Kongsberg Maritime, a global leader renowned for its innovation and commitment to excellence. Together, we are set to deliver cutting-edge solutions to local and global market.”
Crowley moves to launch first-ever LNG bunkering at Panama Canal’s Pacific side
Global shipping and sustainable energy logistics leader Crowley is proceeding with plans to provide liquefied natural gas (LNG) bunkering services on the Pacific side of the Panama Canal, under the first permit issued by the Panama Maritime Authority (AMP) for the provision of such services.
Crowley’s advanced energy group will operate the innovative service to manage the ship-to-ship LNG transfer services. With a potential start date in 2024, Crowley is preparing to provide bunkering and related port solutions to safely deliver lower-emission LNG to vessels for fuel and cryogenic tank cooldown services at the canal.
“LNG is widely accepted as the most practical transitional alternative fuel for maritime shipping and to stay ahead of the rapid deployment of LNG-powered ships across the global market, Crowley is strategically growing its LNG bunkering operations across North and Central America,” said James Fowler, senior vice president and general manager, Crowley Shipping.
“The Panama Canal will become a key location for vessels to take on LNG, and Crowley’s future Panamanian bunkering service will give international ship owners confidence to continue to adopt LNG across their fleets.”
A leader in U.S. LNG supply chain and engineering services, the Panama Canal location expands Crowley’s LNG solutions. In 2014, Crowley received the first small-scale LNG export license from the U.S. Department of Energy for LNG transportation from the U.S. into Free Trade Agreement (FTA) and Non-Free Trade (NFTA) countries. The company then pioneered small scale LNG transportation and engineering to Puerto Rico.
Crowley’s services expanded in 2022 with the opening of an LNG truck-loading terminal in Peñuelas, Puerto Rico. A 12,000 m3 (3.17 million gallons) LNG bunker barge, the largest in the U.S, is under construction with a long-term charter agreement with Shell to begin service in 2024 for ships on the U.S. East Coast.
Crowley has served Central America including Panama for more than 60 years with maritime and logistics services.
Institute of Chartered Shipbrokers reports another successful year
The Institute of Chartered Shipbrokers, a leading professional body in the commercial shipping industry, held its Annual General Meeting (AGM) in London on 25 October where it revealed yet another year of outstanding performance and financial growth.
During the AGM, Preside