Cargo Ship Sinks Near Vietnam, All Crewmembers Rescued In a swift response operation, all 11 crew members of the Vietnam-flagged cargo vessel HUNG PHAT 89 (HP89), MMSI: 574012359, were safely rescued after the vessel sank in the Singapore maritime search and rescue region. The Maritime and Port Authority of Singapore (MPA) confirmed the successful rescue, following a distress alert received by the Maritime Rescue Coordination Centre (MRCC) Singapore. The incident occurred approximately 380 nautical miles east of Vung Tau, Vietnam. Despite the vessel's unfortunate sinking, prompt coordination between MRCC Singapore and MRCC Vietnam ensured the timely rescue of the crew members by the Vietnam Coast Guard. The MPA issued navigational broadcasts to nearby vessels, emphasizing vigilance and reporting of any sightings of the distressed vessel.  

Exmar LPG, a joint venture between Belgian-based Exmar and Stonepeak’s Seapeak, has made significant additions to its midsize gas carrier orderbook with the acquisition of two new vessels from South Korea's Hyundai Mipo Dockyard. Valued at approximately $80.5 million each, these 46,000 cubic meter ships are scheduled for delivery in October and December 2026. Notably, Exmar LPG's existing order at Hyundai Mipo includes four similar units, two of which are set to become the first-ever oceangoing vessels equipped with dual-fuel ammonia engines upon their delivery in early 2026. Originally intended to operate on liquefied petroleum gas (LPG), all four vessels in this order are now classified as LPG-fueled. The recent acquisitions bring Exmar LPG's total orderbook to 10 ships, showcasing the company's commitment to expanding its presence in the gas carrier segment. Meanwhile, Greece’s Latsco Shipping has secured a deal for four LR2 tankers at Hyundai Mipo Dockyard. The order, which amounts to approximately $69.6 million per unit, will see the vessels equipped with scrubbers and delivered by subsidiary Hyundai Vietnam Shipbuilding between the fourth quarter of 2026 and the second quarter of 2027. With this latest acquisition, Latsco Shipping continues to bolster its LR2 fleet, which currently comprises seven vessels. Additionally, the company maintains seven other newbuilding projects across the dry bulk and Very Large Gas Carrier (VLGC) segments, signaling its ongoing commitment to fleet expansion and modernization.

The Hafnia Seine, an oil tanker en route from Sikka port in Western India to the United States, collided with Bharat Petroleum Corp's (BPCL) crude import facility on Sunday night. The vessel was carrying a significant cargo of alkylate for Reliance Industries' U.S. unit, raising concerns in India's energy sector. The collision occurred at the single point mooring (SPM) of BPCL's facility, crucial for crude imports to its Bina refinery in central India. Despite no scheduled vessel discharges at the SPM during the incident, the extent of damage remains uncertain. Both BPCL and Reliance Industries have refrained from making formal comments, leading to speculation and concern among stakeholders.  

Hyundai Mipo Dockyard christens ship set for self-sailing test | Yonhap News Agency Hyundai Mipo Dockyard Co. in Ulsan, South Korea, marked a significant milestone with the christening of the Pos Singapore, a pioneering container ship designed for autonomous navigation. Scheduled for delivery to Pan Ocean Co. by March's end, this vessel represents a breakthrough in maritime technology, showcasing South Korea's dedication to innovation and progress in autonomous sailing. The Pos Singapore stands out as a 1,800 twenty-foot equivalent unit (TEU) vessel equipped with cutting-edge smart navigation technology, a first of its kind in the country. Constructed under the guidance of Hyundai Mipo Dockyard, a unit of HD Korea Shipbuilding & Offshore Engineering Co., this ship measures 172 meters in length, 27.4 meters in width, and 14.3 meters in height, highlighting South Korea's shipbuilding capabilities. A collaborative effort between civilian and government sectors aims to achieve "third level" autonomy, allowing ships to operate remotely without onboard crew. Established in 2000, a government task force will conduct tests on the Pos Singapore to refine autonomous sailing systems, emphasizing safety and efficiency in maritime operations while reducing human error. The Pos Singapore's introduction underscores South Korea's aspirations to lead in global shipbuilding and maritime shipping. Hyundai Mipo Dockyard anticipates this vessel will drive the development of indigenous auto-sailing technologies, enhancing the nation's competitiveness globally. HD Korea Shipbuilding & Offshore Engineering's commitment reaffirms its role in fostering industry innovation.   As the Pos Singapore embarks on its historic journey, it signifies a transformative shift in maritime travel and commerce. Beyond technological achievement, its launch paves the way for the future of global maritime operations, emphasizing innovation, efficiency, and environmental responsibility.  

New Korean engine brand unveiled - Splash247 Hanwha Ocean, previously known as Daewoo Shipbuilding & Marine Engineering, has announced the establishment of a new subsidiary called Hanwha Engine after successfully acquiring compatriot HSD Engine. This move comes as part of the company's strategic expansion plans. The newly formed Hanwha Engine will focus on developing various products, including engines powered by ammonia, showcasing Hanwha's commitment to innovation and sustainability in the maritime industry. In a recent press release, the group emphasized that the addition of Hanwha Engine to its portfolio of affiliates, following the acquisition of Hanwha Ocean last year, strengthens its ability to offer comprehensive shipbuilding solutions. With in-house manufacturing and technological capabilities, Hanwha aims to provide end-to-end solutions to its clients. This development underscores Hanwha's dedication to advancing shipbuilding technology and contributing to the adoption of eco-friendly propulsion systems in the maritime sector.  

dship Carriers signs for up to eight MPP newbuilds in China - Splash247 German MPP specialist dship Carriers is set to bolster its fleet through a substantial expansion initiative in China. The company, headquartered in Hamburg, has inked a deal with China Merchants Jinling Shipyard in Nanjing for the construction of up to eight heavylift multipurpose newbuilds. The agreement encompasses four confirmed 15,000 dwt units, along with an option for two additional vessels, part of the D500 series. This series marks dship Carriers' inaugural venture into newbuild construction and will also stand as the largest ships in its existing fleet. These vessels are designed to deliver notable improvements, including a significant reduction in fuel consumption and a remarkable 50% increase in cargo hold and deck capacity. Established in 2014 by Thomas Press, dship Carriers presently operates a fleet comprising approximately 20 ships. Led by Lars Feller, the independent arm of the deugro group anticipates the commencement of deliveries from the newbuild program in 2025.  

Merchant Vessel Damaged Off Yemen, Following Recent Houthi Attack in Red Sea A Barbados-flagged, U.S.-owned bulk carrier, the True Confidence, suffered damage in an attack 54 nautical miles southwest of Aden. International coalition forces rushed to its aid after an explosion, reportedly caused by individuals claiming to be the Yemeni Navy, resulted in visible smoke and damage. The incident follows the Rubymar sinking, another vessel previously attacked by Houthi forces, underscoring the ongoing threat to maritime security posed by the Iran-backed group. Three crew members are missing, and four others sustained serious burns. The vessel appeared to have been abandoned, according to a shipping source. The United Kingdom Maritime Trade Operations (UKMTO) reported the attack and confirmed coalition support for the damaged merchant vessel off Yemen's coast.     UKMTO WARNING INCIDENT 046 UPDATE 003 ATTACK Warnings - 2024 ( #MarSec pic.twitter.com/IOQ232ho1y — United Kingdom Maritime Trade Operations (UKMTO) (@UK_MTO) March 6, 2024

TEN books shuttle tanker newbuild in South Korea - Splash247 Greek shipping company Tsakos Energy Navigation (TEN) has placed an order for a new shuttle tanker at Samsung Heavy Industries, marking its return to the South Korean shipyard. The order, valued at $149 million, was revealed in a regulatory filing on Monday. The 154,400 deadweight tonnage (dwt) vessel comes with an option for a second one and is supported by a long-term charter agreement with ExxonMobil. This move follows an earlier commitment by the US supermajor to reserve up to four slots for shuttle tanker newbuilds at Samsung Heavy Industries. The first pair of 150,000 dwt vessels from this reservation is scheduled for delivery in June and December 2027.   TEN's latest order adds to its growing list of newbuilding projects, bringing the total to seven. The vessel from Samsung Heavy Industries is expected to be delivered by the end of August 2026, adding to two other shuttle tankers set for delivery in 2025.  

Höegh Autoliners gets $14m injection for ammonia-fuelled newbuildings | Environment news | Shipping Telegraph Norwegian roro company Höegh Autoliners announced yesterday a major milestone in its sustainability efforts, securing substantial Enova funding to propel its transition to ammonia-powered vessels. With nearly $14 million (NOK 146 million) in funding, the company aims to power two of its vessels with this alternative, eco-friendly fuel. This funding signifies significant progress towards Höegh's vision of making its Aurora Class the world's first PCTC vessel to operate on ammonia. Höegh Autoliners has already ordered 12 Aurora Class vessels, designed to transport rolling cargo and general solo cargo. Each vessel is equipped with engines capable of running on liquefied natural gas (LNG) and low-sulfur oil, and certified as ammonia-ready by DNV. The Enova funding, allocated to two of Höegh's planned ammonia vessels, underscores the company's commitment to environmental leadership and collaboration with key industry stakeholders. Andreas Enger, Höegh Autoliners' CEO, emphasized the importance of demonstrating the viability of clean ammonia as a zero-emission shipping fuel and signaling demand for carbon-neutral alternatives. Enger expressed gratitude for Enova's support, noting its instrumental role in derisking the decision to adopt zero-carbon vessels. With most Höegh Autoliners vessels sailing under the Norwegian flag and boasting significant Norwegian content, Enger highlighted the company's close ties to Norway's maritime cluster.   The Enova funding injection, coupled with Höegh Autoliners' innovative vessel design, marks a crucial step towards a sustainable shipping future, aligning with global efforts to combat climate change and reduce maritime emissions.  

George Procopiou reveals plans for Skaramangas shipyard - Shipping Herald    

Cargo ship remains stuck on sandbank after tow attempt fails - BBC News The cargo ship EEMS Servant ran aground while approaching Sharpness Docks, possibly due to shifting sandbanks caused by high flood levels in the River Severn. Efforts to tow the ship off the sandbank were unsuccessful, with a tug from Portishead unable to do so due to smaller tide levels. The 99-meter-long vessel remains stuck, with its crew onboard and sufficient supplies. Authorities are closely monitoring the situation, ensuring there are no immediate concerns regarding damage to the ship or the environment. EEMS Servant is expected to re-float naturally on the next high tide, with support provided until it safely continues its journey. The Gloucester Harbour Trustees and Canal & River Trust are coordinating efforts and will conduct a full investigation once the ship is afloat.

Dutch Damen invests EUR 23 mln in its Romanian shipyard at Galati | Romania Insider For 2024, the Galati shipyard, owned by Dutch group Damen, intends to invest to expand the ship assembly hall under a EUR 23 million project and spend another EUR 5 million for the premises’ ventilation systems, hall heating systems, cranes/cranes, equipment welding, and tools, Damen Galati...  

On February 29, 2024, the container carrier MSC KATYAYNI (IMO: 9110389) encountered an engine failure roughly 300 nautical miles northwest of Vigo, Spain. The vessel, in need of assistance, was promptly towed by tugs towards Vigo. The convoy successfully reached its destination, and on March 5, 2024, MSC KATYAYNI was safely moored in Vigo, Spain. The news was confirmed by maritime casualty agencies. While the specifics surrounding the engine failure remain undisclosed, the successful resolution of the situation underscores the importance of swift response and collaboration in maritime emergencies. Authorities and stakeholders will likely conduct further investigations to determine the cause of the engine failure and prevent similar incidents in the future.

MSC Sao Paulo V: l'incendie est contrôlé - Le Manic A fire that broke out in the engine room of the MSC Sao Paulo V, a Liberian-flagged cargo ship, has been brought under control, according to information transmitted to the Canadian Coast Guard (CCG). The incident occurred on the night of March 3, 2024, while the vessel was near the Les Escoumins pilot station. Despite the blaze, the ship managed to anchor close to the entrance of the Saguenay Fjord around 11 a.m. on March 4, 2024. Assistance from a Groupe Océan tugboat from Baie-Comeau arrived on the scene at approximately 1 p.m. the same day. Fortunately, the fire did not cause any harm to navigation, nor were there signs of pollution or injuries reported. The crew remained onboard, and the CCGS Amundsen and a pilot boat remained nearby to provide further assistance if needed. Myriam Plante of Fisheries and Oceans Canada stated that the Canadian Coast Guard is closely monitoring the situation and is prepared to provide assistance as required. The ship's captain will assess potential options once the tugboat arrives, taking into account the current situation and weather conditions.   The cause of the fire and the extent of damage to the vessel remain under investigation.  

Tuna Fishing Boat Runs Aground on Izu Island South of Tokyo, Killing One Crew Member - The Japan News A tragic maritime incident unfolded on the evening of March 3rd, 2024, as the tuna fishing vessel Fukuei Maru No. 8, originating from Kagoshima Prefecture, foundered on the northern shores of Kozushima in the Izu Islands. The vessel, carrying 25 crew members, including Japanese and Indonesian nationals, encountered engine failure, leading to its grounding. Alerted just before 11 p.m., the Third Regional Coast Guard Headquarters swiftly responded to the distress call. While 24 individuals were successfully rescued, one Japanese crew member, Shoichi Sasaki (67) from Kesennuma City, Miyagi Prefecture, tragically lost his life. The survivors, retrieved by a Japan Coast Guard helicopter, sustained non-life-threatening injuries.   Kozushima Village confirmed the safe arrival of 24 individuals, with three receiving medical attention at a local clinic. Investigations into the cause of the accident are underway, with authorities and local stakeholders actively engaged in response efforts. The Daihachi Fukuei Maru had embarked on a year-long tuna fishing expedition off South America from Shimizu Port in Shizuoka Prefecture.