Topic
maritime
Logistics Tsakos Joins Greek Capesize Ordering Wave at Hengli Heavy Industries
Tsakos Group has contracted two 180,000 dwt capesize bulk carriers at China's Hengli Heavy Industries for about $78m each, with delivery in 2028. The order joins a wave of Greek dry bulk ordering at the yard, including Cape Shipping's separate deal for up to three similar vessels. The moves signal renewed Greek interest in capesize tonnage.
Logistics UK sanctions four LNG carriers as first direct strike on Russia's shadow fleet
The UK has become the first country to directly sanction Russia's LNG shadow fleet, adding four elderly LNG carriers to a broader package of 27 tankers. The move targets vessels acquired from a Middle Eastern shipowner and now used in Russian LNG trades, with Windward estimating Russia's LNG shadow fleet at around 23 vessels. Compliance teams are advised to monitor ownership changes and trading patterns as Western jurisdictions align ahead of EU measures in 2027.
Logistics Shenzhen's Mascot Ocean Enters Capesize Bulk Carrier Segment with Chin Shan Purchase
Shenzhen-based Mascot Ocean has purchased the 2004-built capesize bulk carrier Chin Shan from Taiwan's Sincere Navigation, marking its entry into the cape segment. The acquisition adds to its small fleet of panamaxes and reflects a broader trend of Chinese buyers dominating secondhand capesize purchases. Allied Shipbroking reports two investment tracks in the capesize market from March to early June, with China leading both newbuilding and secondhand activity.
Logistics DP World Eyes Return to US Port Operations With Corpus Christi Terminal Talks
DP World has entered exclusive negotiations to develop and operate a new container terminal at the Port of Corpus Christi, Texas, signalling a potential return to US port operations two decades after a political controversy forced it to sell its American assets. The move, confirmed by DP World Americas CEO Brian Enright, comes as the port diversifies beyond traditional energy and agricultural cargoes. Separately, DP World is also reportedly interested in Maher Terminals at the Port of New York and New Jersey.
Logistics Multiple Factors Set to Reset Ocean Rates in Coming Weeks
Spot ocean rates on the Asia-U.S. West Coast route held at $4,836/FEU while East Coast rates rose 4% to $6,558. The imminent reopening of the Strait of Hormuz could ease fuel costs, but peak season surcharges and early demand frontloading are keeping upward pressure on container rates. Full normalization of shipping through the Strait may take months.
Logistics Europe needs 65 CO2 carriers and 33 ports by 2050 to meet carbon storage goals, Xodus report says
A new report by energy consultancy Xodus finds that Europe's carbon capture and storage ambitions will require a dedicated fleet of around 65 CO2 carriers and 33 ports by 2050. Captured emissions are forecast to rise from 70 mtpa in 2030 to 320 mtpa by 2050, with shipping volumes more than doubling to 79 mtpa. Logistics operators need to prepare for a new market in CO2 transport, including vessel construction, port infrastructure, and multimodal connections.
Logistics Zanzibar Unveils $560 Million Free Port Project at Mangapwani to Boost Regional Trade
Zanzibar has announced a $560 million free port project at Mangapwani, aiming to position the island as a major trade and logistics hub in East Africa. The development, which includes cargo handling, warehousing, and industrial facilities, targets transhipment opportunities and will compete with established ports such as Dar es Salaam, Mombasa, and Djibouti.
Logistics N-Sea appoints Pim Nelemans as chief executive, succeeding Martin Adler
Dutch subsea services specialist N-Sea has appointed Pim Nelemans as chief executive, replacing Martin Adler who stepped down on June 15. Nelemans, former COO, will lead a management board with CFO Ann Porte. Adler will stay on as shareholder and advisory board chairman.
Logistics Dali casualty exposes erosion of technical ownership in shipmanagement, warns veteran Kapoor
Industry veteran Sunil Kapoor, writing for Splash247, warns that the Dali bridge collision is a symptom of systemic failures in third-party shipmanagement as the focus shifts from technical expertise to fleet growth and profitability. The modern superintendent has become a node in an information chain, reducing the priority of vessel condition and repair.
Logistics World's Largest Bulk Carrier to Container Ship Conversion Completed in China
The world’s largest bulk carrier-to-container ship conversion has been completed in China, transforming the 80,000 dwt Kuang Chi Delta into a 3,600 TEU containership. China Classification Society (CCS) inspected and certified the six-month refit at Zhoushan Xinya Shipbuilding & Repair. At least two more Diamond 53 supramax bulk carriers are slated for conversion to around 2,500 TEU, reflecting tight container market conditions.
Logistics Enstructure to Acquire LOGISTEC Marine Terminal Business, Creating Larger North American Platform
Enstructure has agreed to acquire all marine terminal operations of LOGISTEC, including Gulf Stream Marine and LOGISTEC Direct brands. The combined entity will operate across Canada and the US, serving major trade corridors with a network of terminals and logistics assets. Financial terms were not disclosed.
Logistics Sallaum Lines Orders Its Largest Car Carriers Yet, Boosting Fleet Capacity
Sallaum Lines has ordered two firm and two optional 8,600 ceu car carriers from Xiamen Shipbuilding Industry, its largest vessels to date. The LNG/ammonia-ready ships will serve core routes across Europe, Americas, Africa, and the Middle East, supporting growing OEM flows and Asian exports.
Logistics Varamar Enters Ship Ownership with Four-Vessel Acquisition, Marks Strategic Shift
Antwerp-based multipurpose and breakbulk operator Varamar has acquired four 5,200 dwt vessels, marking its first entry into ship ownership. The vessels will be integrated into its commercial network by early 2027, giving the company greater flexibility and reducing reliance on the volatile charter market. The move comes amid constrained modern MPP tonnage and lagging replacement orders.
Logistics Eitzen orders two all-electric 900 TEU boxships for Northern European green corridor
Norwegian investment group Eitzen, through its subsidiary Zen, has ordered two all-electric 900 TEU container vessels from Zhejiang Dongpeng Shipbuilding. The ships will operate on a green shipping corridor between Hamburg, Gothenburg, and Oslo, with first delivery in 24 months. The project is backed by NOK200 million in funding from Enova.
Logistics ESL Shipping to Absorb AtoB@C Under Single Brand, Simplifying Shortsea Dry Bulk Presence
Finland’s ESL Shipping is absorbing its Swedish subsidiary AtoB@C Shipping into a single ESL brand to simplify market presence. The gradual transition will not affect customer agreements or operations, according to the company.
Logistics Hormuz Ceasefire Deal Leaves Shipping in Familiar Wait-and-See Mode as Operational Hurdles Remain
Asian shipping stocks rallied Monday on a tentative US-Iran ceasefire deal to reopen the Strait of Hormuz after 107 days, but industry experts caution that a full return to normal navigation will be gradual and uncertain. Major operational questions remain over mine clearance, traffic control, insurance, and the durability of the ceasefire, with over 500 vessels still stranded and traffic almost non-existent.
Trade Panama Flag Caught in US-China Crossfire as Shipowners Flee Rising Detentions
The Panama Ship Registry has shrunk by 3.3% so far this year as shipowners abandon the flag due to increased Chinese port state control inspections and geopolitical tensions between Washington and Beijing. China detained 135 Panama-flagged vessels in April, representing 82% of all detentions, and 85% in early May. Owners are migrating to Liberia and the Marshall Islands, which has widened its tonnage lead over Panama.
Logistics Shearwater Geoservices Secures $40M Capital Injection in Debt Restructuring Deal
Norwegian offshore seismic vessel player Shearwater Geoservices has reached an agreement with lenders and stakeholders to amend its capital structure. The deal includes a $40m capital injection, debt repayment extensions, and relaxed covenant terms, materially improving the company's liquidity outlook and financial flexibility.
Logistics Maritime Healthcare’s Real Challenge: Routine Illnesses Delay Ships and Cost Operators
According to Splash247, the greatest healthcare risk at sea is not emergencies but untreated routine conditions. These common illnesses lead to operational disruptions, crew changes, and increased costs. Telehealth and early intervention are key to mitigating these risks.
Logistics India Restricts Seafarer Deployment to Conflict Zones After Fatal Attack Off Oman Coast
The Indian Directorate General of Shipping has advised maritime recruitment agencies to restrict deployment of Indian seafarers to conflict zones until further orders, following a US military strike that killed three Indian crew members off the Oman coast. The advisory also mandates heightened security vigilance for vessels in the Gulf region, including the Strait of Hormuz.
Logistics Hybrid-Electric Ferries Enter Service: Faster, Cleaner Maritime Transit Arrives
New York's first hybrid-electric public ferry, the Harbor Charger, begins its first full summer service, cutting CO2 emissions by 600 tons annually and fuel costs by $200,000. San Francisco Bay Ferry prepares to launch the first high-speed, fully battery-electric passenger ferry in the US in early 2027. These vessels signal a shift in maritime propulsion technology with implications for fleet operators and port infrastructure.
Logistics Strait of Hormuz Closure Hits 100 Days as Dark Tanker Trade Masks True Oil Flow
The Strait of Hormuz has been effectively closed for more than 100 days, causing a 95% reduction in crude shipments from Arabian Gulf ports and a 99% drop in LNG carriers, according to WTO data. The 'dark trade' of vessels running without AIS transponders makes actual oil flows difficult to quantify, but analysts estimate 100 million barrels may have moved through since May 1. Despite the disruption, Brent crude sits at $87.55 per barrel due to buffers from China, the US, Brazil, and Canada. Recovery may take years, with IEA warning of up to two years for energy facility repairs.
Trade Conservative group AFP targets Jones Act repeal with six-figure ad campaign
Americans for Prosperity (AFP), the advocacy group backed by conservative billionaire Charles Koch, is launching a six-figure digital ad campaign urging Congress to permanently repeal the Jones Act. The century-old law requires U.S.-built, -owned, -crewed, and -flagged ships for domestic cargo transport. President Trump suspended the law for 90 days amid the Iran crisis, which AFP argues shows the law is outdated and costly.
Trade Navy Drone Boat Rescues Apache Helicopter Crew Near Strait of Hormuz
A Navy-operated uncrewed surface vessel rescued the crew of a US Army Apache helicopter that crashed near the Strait of Hormuz, marking the first known military personnel recovery by a drone boat. The incident highlights the expanding role of autonomous systems in high-risk maritime operations, with implications for commercial shipping security along critical trade routes.
Logistics Former Norden Chief Launches Africa-Focused Shipbroking House Origin Brokers
Shipping executive Christian Vinther Christensen, formerly of Norden, Western Bulk and Maersk, has launched Origin Brokers, a shipbroking and advisory firm with a focus on Africa's commodity export and import corridors. The company will offer dry bulk and tanker chartering, market intelligence, and trade support from offices in Limassol, Dubai and Abidjan.
Logistics Shipping faces talent crisis as aging workforce threatens global maritime operat
The global shipping industry is grappling with a severe talent shortage, as an aging workforce and recruitment gaps threaten operations. At a BIMCO seminar in Athens, leaders warned that around 20,000 seafarers remain stuck in the Persian Gulf, highlighting the human cost of geopolitical conflicts. Industry experts called for collective action to attract young talent, retain experienced personnel, and address seafarer welfare and criminalization issues.
Logistics Sea Cargo Charter Signatories Hold Emissions Line Amid 2025 Shipping Turmoil
The Sea Cargo Charter’s 2025 annual report shows signatories maintained climate performance, averaging 11.6% behind IMO’s minimum decarbonisation trajectory, an improvement from 12.2% in 2024. Despite geopolitical turmoil and shifting trade patterns, 20 of 29 reporting companies lowered carbon intensity. Operational optimizations remain the primary tool, with growing interest in low-carbon fuels and wind propulsion.
Logistics Emotional Toll on Seafarers Poses Structural Risk to Global Shipping
A growing body of research, including surveys by Nautilus Federation and ISWAN, reveals that family separation and relationship strain among seafarers are becoming structural risks to the shipping industry. Nearly one in three seafarers has experienced a serious relationship breakdown linked to time away from home, and divorce rates are 20–30% higher than the national average. Welfare organisations report rising calls for relationship support, and experts warn that emotional distress affects concentration, retention, and operational safety.
Logistics Why Human Behavioural Competence Is Critical in Modern Maritime Operations
According to Splash247, the maritime industry is increasingly recognising that technical competence alone is insufficient for safe operations. Behavioural competencies such as communication, situational awareness, and teamwork are now seen as integral. The Nautical Institute Academy has launched a Behavioural Competency Assessor Course to help bridge this gap.
Trade BIMCO Develops Clause for Russia-Linked Tanker Sale Restrictions
BIMCO is drafting a standard clause for tanker sale agreements in response to EU sanctions targeting Russian involvement. The clause aims to ensure compliance with new obligations on EU sellers.
Logistics Structural Flaws in Crew Travel Budgets Exposed
Crew travel budgets in the shipping industry are plagued by structural inefficiencies, leading to unmanaged costs. The lack of competitive re-tendering and visibility into decision-making processes are key issues.
Regulations & Compliance Brazil's Biofouling Rules: $9M Fines Loom for Non-Compliance
Effective June 17, 2026, Brazil's new biofouling regulations mandate commercial vessels over 24m to comply with strict management plans and inspections, with fines up to $9M for violations. Full enforcement begins January 10, 2028.
Logistics Hong Kong Firm Synelysia Orders Eight Feeders at Xinle
Synelysia Limited, a new Hong Kong company, has ordered up to eight feeder containerships at Xinle Shipyard. The vessels are expected to be delivered starting in 2028, with each ship costing approximately $32 million.
Logistics Purus Expands LNG Fleet with New Samsung Order
Purus Marine is linked to a new LNG carrier order at Samsung Heavy Industries, expanding its fleet. The $252m contract for a 174,000 cu m vessel is set for delivery in January 2029.
Logistics Huaxia Financial Leasing Seeks Yard Slots for Six Newcastlemaxes
Huaxia Financial Leasing is seeking yard slots for six newcastlemax bulk carriers, marking a significant expansion in the dry bulk sector. The Beijing-based company has launched a tender for vessels with a price cap of $79.5 million each.
Logistics Lohmann Sells Final Feeder Ships to Lila Global
Hermann Lohmann Bereederung has sold its last two container vessels, Marina L and Theodor, to Lila Global, marking its exit from container shipping. The vessels are currently chartered to CMA CGM and X-Press Feeders.
Logistics Exmar's Ammonia-Powered Vessel Marks New Era in Shipping
Exmar has launched the world's first oceangoing vessel powered by a dual-fuel ammonia engine, marking a significant milestone in sustainable shipping. The vessel, named Antwerpen, is part of a series of four ships designed to operate with low emissions.
Logistics ICS Endorses Onboard Carbon Capture for Shipping Emissions
The International Chamber of Shipping (ICS) endorses onboard carbon capture and storage (OCCS) as a viable near-term solution for reducing vessel emissions. The ICS report highlights OCCS's potential amidst limited availability of green fuels.
Logistics Samsung Heavy Secures $2.9bn Contract for US FLNG Project
Samsung Heavy Industries has signed a $2.9 billion contract to construct the Delfin FLNG Unit 1, the first floating liquefied natural gas unit in the United States. The project, involving Mitsui O.S.K. Lines and Delfin Midstream, is set to begin production in 2030.
Logistics Moscow's Shadow Fleet: A Secret Network of Watchmen
An investigation reveals a network of Russian watchmen aboard tankers carrying sanctioned oil, ensuring compliance and evasion of Western authorities. These individuals, often with military backgrounds, play a crucial role in Russia's shadow fleet operations.
Technology ELNAV.AI Advocates AI for Safety, Not Surveillance in Shipping
ELNAV.AI, led by Hrvoje Mihovilović, focuses on integrating AI into shipping to enhance safety and operational efficiency. The company advocates for AI systems that support human operators rather than replace them, emphasizing the importance of practical applications over autonomous ambitions.
Logistics MSC Achieves Record 21.6% Global Market Share
Mediterranean Shipping Company (MSC) has set a new record by capturing 21.6% of the global container market. This achievement surpasses Maersk's previous high and highlights MSC's aggressive expansion strategy.
Logistics SplashTech: Navigating Shipping's Digital Transformation
SplashTech magazine offers a comprehensive guide to the technological changes in the shipping industry. It targets shipowners and operators, providing insights into digital advancements and strategic investments.
Logistics Pingtan Minghui Ventures into Tanker Market with New Orders
Pingtan Minghui Shipping, traditionally a dry bulk carrier, has ordered two LR2 tankers, marking its entry into the tanker sector. The vessels, built by Taizhou JianXing Heavy Industry, are set for delivery in 2028.
Logistics International Seaways Orders LNG-Ready Tankers in South Korea
International Seaways has contracted two LNG-ready LR1 product tankers at K Shipbuilding in South Korea, with options for two more. This move aligns with their fleet optimization strategy, following recent vessel sales and platform expansions.
Logistics CM Energy Launches Innovative Meridian Class CSOV
CM Energy has introduced the Meridian Class CSOV, a next-generation vessel designed for the offshore wind industry. This vessel offers low-carbon propulsion options, aligning with sustainability goals.
Logistics Keyfield Expands Offshore Fleet with New AHTS Vessel
Keyfield International has acquired a 2014-built AHTS vessel for $7.35 million to expand its offshore fleet. The vessel, to be renamed Keyfield Joyful, will undergo upgrades and is expected to be deployed in late 2026.
Logistics Thenamaris Expands Tanker Fleet with New Orders
Thenamaris has expanded its tanker fleet by ordering new vessels in South Korea and China. The company has confirmed orders for MR2 product tankers and aframax/LR2 tankers, enhancing its market presence.
Trade Maritime Crackdown Expands from Hormuz to Mediterranean
The US and EU have intensified maritime sanctions, expanding enforcement from the Gulf of Oman to the Mediterranean. The US disabled a vessel breaching Iran's blockade, while the EU targets Russia's shadow fleet.
Logistics VLCC Orderbook Reaches Record High Amid Fleet Renewal
The VLCC orderbook has reached a record high, with 262 units on order, driven by fleet renewal needs. This surge in orders could impact freight rates and market dynamics, as older vessels are phased out.
Logistics Suez Canal Hikes Transit Surcharges from Mid-July
The Suez Canal Authority will increase transit surcharges for most vessel classes from July 15. This move affects crude oil carriers, LPG carriers, and containerships, among others, with surcharges rising significantly.
Logistics Mermaid Maritime and DS Global Revive Offshore Vessel
Mermaid Maritime has partnered with DS Global Offshore Engineering to reactivate the Mermaid Commander DSV. The joint venture, DS Mermaid, will manage the vessel's reactivation and future operations.
Logistics Containership Orderbook Reaches 39% of Global Fleet
The containership orderbook has reached 39% of the global fleet, marking a post-2010 high. This surge is driven by strong market conditions and includes plans to convert bulk carriers into container vessels.
Logistics Sincere Navigation Sells VLCC Maxim to Sinokor
Sincere Navigation has sold its 2011-built VLCC Maxim to Sinokor, marking its second VLCC sale this year. This transaction highlights Sinokor's active role in the VLCC market.
Logistics Van Hui Shipping Expands into Capesize Market
Van Hui Shipping has acquired the 181,000 dwt Ehime Queen for $57.5 million, marking its entry into the capesize segment. This move comes amid a historically firm capesize market, driven by strong Guinea bauxite exports.
Logistics Cargo Giants Support Splash Singapore's Inaugural Event
Splash Singapore's debut event attracts major cargo interests, including Rio Tinto and Vale, aiming to become a key Asian shipping conference. The event will feature discussions on global shipping demand drivers.
Logistics DHT Expands VLCC Fleet with New Hanwha Order
DHT Holdings has placed an order for a new Very Large Crude Carrier (VLCC) with Hanwha Ocean, continuing its fleet renewal strategy. The new vessel will be delivered in August 2028, following the successful delivery of two sister ships earlier this year.
Logistics Shipmanagement Sector Faces New Wave of Consolidation
The shipmanagement sector is experiencing a shift from scale-driven consolidation to a focus on technology and expertise. Industry leaders highlight the need for smarter operations to manage regulatory and technical complexities. This change impacts global shipping lanes and requires strategic adjustments.
Logistics AI's Impact on Shipping: Navigating the Hype and Reality
The integration of AI in shipping is reshaping logistics, yet it comes with challenges. Industry leaders discuss the balance between innovation and practical application.
Logistics Container Newbuild Delivered Amid Panama Canal Draft Cuts
The Behram Box, a containership stranded since the 2008 crisis, has finally been delivered and entered service, highlighting the strong demand for feeder tonnage. Meanwhile, the Panama Canal Authority has announced draft restrictions due to water level concerns, potentially impacting global shipping routes.