On July 26, 2024, the Indian Coast Guard (ICG) successfully rescued 14 crew members from the JSW Raigad, a bulk carrier that had run aground near Kolaba Fort due to severe weather.The incident began on July 25 when the ICG ship Sankalp and the Maritime Rescue Coordination Centre in Mumbai received a distress call at 1327 hours. The JSW Raigad, had been anchored off Alibag. Adverse weather caused the vessel to drag its anchor and lose control, which was exacerbated by flooding in the engine room. These complications led the ship to ground on reefs approximately one nautical mile from Alibag. The severe sea conditions along the Maharashtra coast made rescue efforts challenging. However, the ICG sent a helicopter on early on July 26. Despite the difficult conditions, all 14 crew members were safely evacuated and disembarked at Alibag Beach.This successful rescue operation underscores the ICG's commitment to maritime safety. The JSW Raigad remains grounded, with ongoing monitoring to manage any potential risks and ensure environmental protection.    

Image credit: COSCO Shipping Speciliazed Carrier. The naming ceremony for the 77,000 DWT multipurpose pulp vessel, GREEN ITAJAI, was held in COSCO Shipping Heavy Industry (Dalian) shipyard, China. This vessel, part of a new class of the world’s largest pulp carriers, is specifically engineered for the transportation of pulp.The COSCO Shipping Speciliazed Carrier, GREEN ITAJAI boasts impressive dimensions: 225 meters in length, 32.26 meters in width, and a draft of 14.5 meters when fully loaded. It has a total hold capacity of 88,600 cubic meters and is equipped with four heavy-duty cranes, each capable of lifting up to 300 tons, ensuring operational efficiency and enhanced performance. The vessel's maiden voyage is set to commence from China to South America, marking a significant addition to the fleet and further enhancing service capabilities. The introduction of MV GREEN ITAJAI underscores the commitment to innovation and sustainability in maritime operations.The naming ceremony marks a milestone in maritime engineering and logistics, highlighting the advancements in vessel design aimed at improving efficiency and environmental performance.

On 25 July 2024, a Tanzanian-flagged general cargo vessel, Fu Shun, capsized and sank due to severe weather conditions caused by Typhoon Gaemi, approximately 19 nautical miles off the coast of Kaohsiung City, Taiwan. The vessel was overwhelmed by the storm and subsequently submerged in the early morning hours. The incident has resulted in the disappearance of nine Myanmar nationals who were aboard the vessel. Reports indicate that the crew members abandoned the ship and donned life jackets prior to its sinking. Search and rescue operations are scheduled to commence as soon as weather conditions in the region permit, according to local authorities.In addition to the Fu Shun incident, Taiwan’s National Coast Guard Administration reported that at least three other vessels were affected by the storm, including the Indonesian bulk carrier Iriana, which ran aground. Fortunately, no injuries or oil pollution have been reported from these grounding incidents.        

The Philippine Coast Guard reported the sinking of the oil tanker Terra Nova in Manila Bay early Thursday morning following severe weather conditions. The incident has prompted an urgent investigation into a potential major oil spill, as 16 out of 17 crew members were successfully rescued during a nighttime operation.The Terra Nova, which departed from Bataan province en route to Iloilo, was carrying approximately 1.4 million liters (370,000 gallons) of industrial fuel oil in watertight tanks when it encountered formidable waves. Despite efforts by the crew to navigate back to port, the vessel ultimately succumbed to the rough seas and sank shortly after midnight, according to Coast Guard spokesperson. An aerial survey identified an oil spill extending approximately 3.7 kilometers (2.3 miles) near the site of the sinking. However, Coast Guard spokesperson indicated that the spill might be from the fuel intended to power the tanker’s engines rather than the significantly larger cargo of industrial fuel oil.The Coast Guard vessel BRP Melchora Aquino has been deployed to the vicinity, situated more than 6 kilometers (approximately 4 miles) off the coast of Bataan province. The ship's mission includes the search for the last missing crew member and an initial assessment of the tanker’s cargo of fuel oil.    

Image credit: Eastern Pacific Shipping. On 24 July, the final vessel in a series of six 210,000 dwt DF LNG Newcastlemaxes chartered to Rio Tinto, Mount Ossa, was successfully delivered. This delivery represents the 21st vessel delivered by New Times Shipbuilding to Eastern Pacific Shipping (EPS).Despite global challenges, Rio Tinto and EPS have demonstrated exceptional resilience and a strong commitment to decarbonizing the shipping industry. Over the past three years, these LNG-powered vessels have proven to be a sustainable alternative, emitting 30% less greenhouse gases compared to their conventional counterparts. The successful completion of over 200 LNG bunkering operations has further reduced emissions across the EPS fleet. This milestone delivery highlights the robust partnership between New Times Shipbuilding and EPS. With 43 world-class vessels built and delivered, including those currently on order, this collaboration is only halfway through its journey. EPS and New Times Shipbuilding continue to work together to advance sustainable shipping practices, reflecting their shared dedication to environmental responsibility and industry innovation.This delivery underscores the significant progress being made in the maritime sector towards reducing carbon emissions and promoting sustainable practices, setting a benchmark for future developments in the industry.

Image credit: Frontera Energy. Frontera Energy Corporation on 22 July, has announced a significant development in its energy portfolio. Its subsidiary, Sociedad Portuaria Puerto Bahía S.A. ("Puerto Bahía"), has entered into a Framework Collaboration Agreement with Gasco Soluciones Logísticas y Energéticas S.A.S. ("GASCO"). This Agreement formalizes their joint initiative to develop a liquefied petroleum gas ("LPG") project at Puerto Bahía’s advanced port terminal in the Bay of Cartagena, Colombia. The Agreement details the construction and operation of a 20,400-ton LPG refrigerated storage facility, with an estimated total cost ranging from $50 million to $60 million. The financial contributions will be shared between Puerto Bahía and Gasco, with Puerto Bahía’s contributions primarily in-kind. The collaboration will involve the establishment of a joint venture responsible for the development, construction, and operation of the LPG facilities. Future phases may be added to meet increasing LPG demand. According to the Colombian Mining and Energy Planning Unit ("UPME"), Colombia’s current annual LPG consumption stands at approximately 700,000 tons, with a projected requirement of 1 million tons by 2031. The new facility is expected to initially supply 160,000 tons per year, with capacity increasing to 340,000 tons by 2030. It will also accommodate two Very Large Gas Carriers ("VLGC") per month. This project marks a major investment in Colombia's energy infrastructure, addressing the country’s growing energy needs.

Image credit: Carnival Corporation. Miami, 23 July 2024 - Carnival Corporation, the world's largest cruise company, has announced the finalization of an agreement with Italian shipbuilder Fincantieri for the design, engineering, and construction of three new landmark cruise ships. These vessels, set to be the largest in the Carnival Corporation global fleet, will be powered by liquefied natural gas (LNG) and are scheduled for delivery in the summers of 2029, 2031, and 2033. Each of the new ships will boast nearly 230,000 gross registered tonnes and over 3,000 guest staterooms, accommodating almost 8,000 guests at full capacity. This expansion will increase Carnival Corporation's LNG-powered fleet to 16 ships, representing nearly 30% of its global capacity and contributing to immediate reductions in greenhouse gas emissions. The new vessels will be equipped with advanced energy efficiency, waste management, and emission reduction technologies, further minimizing the environmental impact of Carnival Corporation's operations. The agreement underscores the company's commitment to sustainable cruising and its ongoing efforts to enhance the guest experience while promoting environmental stewardship.Upon delivery, the new ships will solidify Carnival Corporation's position as a leader in the cruise industry, offering unparalleled capacity and amenities for guests while advancing its environmental goals.

Image credit: Agros Froyanes. Stanley, 23 July 2024 - The Falkland Islands Maritime Authority has announced a serious maritime incident involving the fishing vessel FV Argos Georgia. On 22 July, the Authority received a distress call reporting severe flooding and requesting immediate assistance. The FV Argos Georgia, with 27 crew members on board, was located approximately 200 nautical miles east of Stanley. In response, the HQ British Forces South Atlantic Islands (BFSAI) deployed an aircraft, which was the first to arrive at the scene, and located the life rafts. Despite challenging weather conditions, the FPV Lilibet and two fishing vessels also responded and commenced rescue operations and have rescued several crew members. Regrettably, eight fatalities have been reported, with five crew members still missing and 14 known survivors.The Falkland Islands Government continues to coordinate the search and rescue efforts, emphasizing the safety and well-being of all involved.

Image credit: ADNOC On July 23, 2024, ADNOC Logistics and Services plc (ADNOC L&S), a prominent global energy maritime logistics company, announced that its joint venture with Wanhua Chemical Group, AW Shipping, has awarded significant shipbuilding contracts to Jiangnan Shipyard in China. The total value of these contracts is approximately $1.9 billion (AED7 billion). The contracts were signed in Beijing at a ceremony witnessed by His Excellency Dr. Sultan Ahmed Al Jaber, UAE Minister of Industry and Advanced Technology and ADNOC Managing Director and Group CEO, Liao Zengtai, Wanhua Chemical Group Chairman, Wu Xiande, Fuzhou Government Mayor, Kai Hu, CSTC President, Ou Lin, Jiangnan Shipyard Chairman, and Wen Gang, CSSC Chairman. The first contract, valued at around $1.4 billion (AED5.1 billion), entails the construction of nine Very Large Ethane Carriers (VLECs). Additionally, a contract worth approximately $250 million (AED900 million) covers the construction of two Very Large Ammonia Carriers (VLACs), with an option for two more VLACs at the same price. These new vessels will feature energy-efficient dual fuel engines and rank among the world’s largest ethane and ammonia carriers. The VLECs, each with a carrying capacity of 99,000 cubic meters and powered by ethane or conventional fuels, are slated for delivery between 2025 and 2027. The VLACs, each capable of transporting 93,000 cubic meters of ammonia and powered by liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) or conventional fuels, are expected to be delivered between 2026 and 2028.  

On 22 July, the Trafigura Group has successfully acquired Gearbulk Holding AG’s 50 percent share in the joint venture company High Heat Tankers Pte Ltd (HHT) for an undisclosed amount. Additionally, the Group has committed to commissioning a new 17,500 dwt IMO II specialized high heat tanker, slated for delivery in the third quarter of 2026 from Chengxi Shipyard, China. This strategic acquisition and expansion are poised to significantly enhance HHT’s service capabilities. The forthcoming vessel will be equipped with a high-efficiency heating system, specifically designed to transport products in liquid form at elevated temperatures. The design incorporates strongly insulated and fully segregated ‘floating’ cargo tanks, allowing for thermal expansion without contact with the hull’s inner side. This innovative design, combined with thick insulation of the cargo tanks, will considerably reduce the energy required for heating.High Heat Tankers Pte Ltd was established in 2018 as a joint venture between Gearbulk and Trafigura Group’s Puma Energy Supply and Trading Pte. Ltd. The venture provides access to the world’s largest fleet of modern IMO II high heat tankers. Presently, the HHT pool consists of 14 high-quality tankers, ranging from 15,000 to 37,000 dwt, capable of transporting liquid pitch and other high-temperature products such as bitumen. This strategic acquisition and fleet expansion underscore Trafigura Group’s commitment to enhancing its capabilities in the specialized transport of high-heat products, further solidifying its position in the global maritime industry.

Nissen Kaiun has placed an order for four very large ammonia carriers with Yangzi-Mitsui Shipbuilding (Yamic), a joint venture between China’s Yangzijiang Shipbuilding and Japan’s Mitsui E&S Shipbuilding. The vessels, each with a capacity of 88,000 cubic meters, are scheduled for delivery between May 2028 and February 2029.This order marks a significant expansion in Nissen Kaiun’s fleet, which currently comprises approximately 200 ships. Among these, ten are categorized as very large LPG carriers, reflecting the company's substantial presence in the LPG shipping sector. Additionally, Nissen Kaiun has nearly forty newbuilds in its order book, underscoring its ongoing commitment to fleet expansion and modernization. The decision to invest in these new ammonia carriers aligns with the industry’s evolving focus on cleaner and more efficient energy solutions, as ammonia is increasingly recognized as a viable alternative fuel. The acquisition of these vessels is expected to enhance Nissen Kaiun’s capabilities in the specialized sector of ammonia transportation, further solidifying its position in the global maritime industry.        

Image credit: Vard VARD has successfully delivered its third Commissioning Service Operation Vessel (CSOV) to REM Offshore. The previous two vessels, REM Power and REM Wind, were delivered in 2023 and 2024, respectively.The CSOV is specifically designed to provide essential services during the construction, operation, and maintenance phases of offshore wind farms globally. The vessel features the VARD 4 19 design, developed by Vard Design in Ålesund, which serves as a highly versatile platform for all support operations related to offshore wind farms. This design prioritizes onboard logistics, safety, comfort, and superior functionality. The newly delivered vessel will be equipped with a diesel-electric and battery hybrid propulsion system, engineered to ensure highly flexible and fuel-efficient operation. Furthermore, significant space within the vessel has been allocated for potential future upgrades or conversion to zero-emission energy sources.This strategic move underscores VARD’s commitment to advancing sustainable maritime solutions and supporting the renewable energy sector. The delivery of this third CSOV reinforces REM Offshore's capacity to effectively service and maintain offshore wind farms, contributing to the global transition towards cleaner energy sources.

On July 20, 2024, the United Kingdom Maritime Trade Operations (UKMTO) reported an incident involving the Liberian-flagged containership MV PUMBA, situated 64 nautical miles northwest of Al Mukha, Yemen. The vessel experienced two separate attacks, the first occurring at 0300 UTC. According to the vessel's Master, the initial attack was executed by an Uncrewed Aerial System (UAS) that detonated in close proximity to the ship, causing minor damage. This was followed by a second attack involving an Uncrewed Surface Vessel (USV), which also exploded near the vessel. Subsequent reports from the Master indicated further sightings of UAS in the vicinity. In an update provided by the Company's Security Officer, it was reported that at 0805 UTC, a missile was observed in the vicinity of MV PUMBA, impacting the water close to the vessel. After the attacks, both the vessel and its crew remain safe and unharmed.

Image credit: RMC. Rauma Marine Constructions (RMC) has been contracted by TT-Line Company Pty Ltd to construct two car and passenger ferries for the demanding open sea route between Victoria and Tasmania. Concurrently, RMC is building the first multi-role corvette for the Finnish Defence Forces. On 19 July, the Rauma shipyard marked the launch of the Spirit of Tasmania V with traditional ceremonies. This follows the launch and christening of the Spirit of Tasmania IV last October. Both vessels are commissioned by the Tasmanian TT-Line Company.The first of the new vessels, Spirit of Tasmania IV, is scheduled for delivery to the client this August. The recently launched Spirit of Tasmania V will be completed by next spring. The Spirit of Tasmania V is a significant addition to the fleet, boasting a length of 212 meters, a width of 31 meters, a draught of 7 meters, and a gross tonnage of 48,000. The vessel can achieve speeds of up to 26 knots (48 km/h) and offers 3,700 lane meters for vehicles. It can accommodate 1,800 passengers across 301 cabins. These specifications underscore the vessel's capacity to enhance transportation efficiency and passenger experience on the Victoria-Tasmania route, highlighting TT-Line Company's dedication to advancing maritime services.

Image credit: Indian Coast Guard On 19 July 2024, the Indian Coast Guard’s Maritime Rescue Coordination Centre (MRCC) Mumbai received a distress call from the container carrier MV Maersk Frankfurt, located approximately 50 nautical miles off the coast of Karwar. The vessel reported a significant fire onboard.In response, the Indian Coast Guard promptly dispatched aircraft and ships to the scene. A Dornier aircraft, along with ships Sachet, Sujeet, and Samrat, have been deployed to assist in firefighting and rescue operations. Additionally, an Advanced Light Helicopter (ALH) and other aircraft are being mobilized to bolster search and rescue (SAR) efforts. The fire has raised serious concerns due to the vessel's cargo, which includes Maritime Dangerous Goods (IMDG). According to an official statement from the Coast Guard, explosions have been occurring in the forward section of the vessel, posing a heightened risk.Efforts are currently focused on extinguishing the fire to prevent an ecological disaster and to ensure the safety of the vessel and its crew. The Indian Coast Guard remains on high alert and is actively coordinating with other agencies to manage the situation effectively and mitigate potential hazards.