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MPC Container Ships standardising FleetVision across its fleet

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Following a successful initial pilot program, MPCC, a leader in global container shipping and maritime innovation, has committed to standardizing the FleetVision™ platform across their fleet. 

FleetVision™ – ShipIn’s AI-powered visual analytics platform – delivers real-time visibility into shipboard operations, enabling proactive risk management, early hazard detection, and seamless ship-to-shore collaboration. 

Christian Rychly, COO, MPC Container Ships, said: “By equipping our vessels with FleetVision™, we’re taking a significant step forward in protecting our seafarers. This tool provides us with real-time insights that allow for quicker responses and better decision-making—ensuring safer, more secure voyages for every crew member.” 

“MPC Container Ships continues to lead by example in embracing smart technology to enhance fleet safety and performance,” said Osher Perry, CEO of ShipIn Systems. “The extended deployment of FleetVision reflects their deep commitment to protecting crews and optimizing operations through greater transparency and data-driven decision-making. We’re proud to be their partner on this journey and excited to support their continued growth and innovation at sea.” 

Port Taranaki installs a new tsunami gauge to enhance national monitoring network

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Earth Sciences New Zealand’s GeoNet programme has installed a new tsunami gauge at Port Taranaki, which fills a critical gap in coverage in New Zealand’s Tsunami Monitoring Network along the west coast of the North Island.

The gauge provides enhanced visibility of real-time and future tsunami risk in the region.

“This installation is a vital step toward improving our national resilience to tsunami hazards,” says Dr David Burbidge, tsunami scientist at Earth Sciences New Zealand.

“The west coast has fewer monitoring stations than other parts of the country, so this gauge gives us a clearer picture of what’s happening in real time and helps us better understand tsunami behaviour during and after an event. This site fills in an important part of our coastal tsunami gauge network – a vital tsunami monitoring dataset in tandem with our DART network and seismic monitoring capability, keeping eyes on the open ocean for tsunamis.”

The gauge will serve two key functions:

  • Monitoring: Delivering real-time data to assess current conditions and support emergency response and de-escalation.
  • Post-event analysis: Providing detailed information on wave arrival times, amplitudes, and propagation to improve scientific models and forecasting.

“This isn’t just about collecting data, it’s about protecting people. Accurate, timely information can save lives and help communities recover faster after a tsunami,” Dr Burbidge says.

“To get the best data, we look for locations with deep water, simple seabed topography, easy access, and proximity to population centres or critical infrastructure,” Dr Burbidge explains. “Port Taranaki meets these criteria well, making it an ideal site for this installation.”

The installation builds on previous work at Port Taranaki, where a GNSS station was installed in 2024 as part of Toitū Te Whenua Land Information New Zealand’s 3D coastal mapping project.

Port Taranaki Chief Executive Simon Craddock says the port is more than happy to assist the tsunami monitoring programme and help safeguard the community and region.

As well as providing an area near the end of Blyde Wharf for the tsunami gauge componentry to be installed, Port Taranaki has also led the on-site project management, facilitating the site work around shipping movements.

“As a lifeline utility, Port Taranaki has a key role to play prior, during and post natural events, so having technology on-site that will help give our community vital information and contribute to time critical advice should a tsunami occur is invaluable,” he says.

“We’re also a west coast port, exposed to often challenging conditions, so we know the importance of monitoring and gathering information that helps develop our knowledge and understanding of weather, sea and swell activity.

“This is an important tool, and we look forward to working with Earth Sciences New Zealand as the monitoring proceeds.”

The recent Kamchatka (Russia) tsunami has made it clear how important these instruments are for providing critical data that informs how the country responds to tsunami events, and for keeping people safe and aware of what’s happening on their shores.

NEMA are the official source of tsunami warning information in New Zealand. For information on preparing for earthquakes or tsunami, there are guidelines from the National Emergency Management Agency’s (NEMA) Get Ready website.

MEYER FASSMER Spezialschiffbau consortium improves thruster performance

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As part of a joint venture between FASSMER and MEYER Group, the 125-meter research vessel is being constructed for the German Federal Ministry of Education and Research (BMBF), to support their worldwide multifunctional and interdisciplinary projects, with a focus on climate and environmental research within the Atlantic. 

This contract marks another milestone in the adoption of Elomatic’s Elogrid tunnel thruster solution as it continues to be selected as part of innovative newbuild projects, engaging the versatility of Elomatic competences. All previously installed applications were as part of retrofit projects on existing vessels to provide immediate benefits in fuel consumption reduction and thrust increase. For the METEOR IV project, the thrust increase was the main objective, which is why MEYER FASSMER Spezialschiffbau selected the Elogrid solution, to improve the vessel’s dynamic positioning capability to support their mission profile, while also reducing fuel consumption.  

Elogrid is an energy saving technology which is designed to maximize side thrust force to enhance maneuverability, whilst unlocking new levels of performance, efficiency, and sustainability. The Elogrid technology is predicted to reduce fuel consumption ranging from 1% to 4% per vessel in normal operating conditions. It achieves this by reducing flow entry into the bow thruster tunnels at cruising speeds. Elogrid blades are designed to improve side thrust when tunnel propellers are in use, resulting in a 5-8% increase in side thrust compared to operation without grids. 

Jari Yli-Tolppa, Vice President Shipowner Services, said: “Our collaboration with MEYER FASSMER Spezialschiffbau marks a significant step forward in the development of the Elogrid solution. The METEOR IV project is a prime example of how the Elogrid solution can be incorporated into the initial design phase of a vessel, establishing a blueprint for future new build projects, to support ship owners that are looking to improve their vessel’s performance, increase efficiencies, as well as reduce their carbon footprint.”  

Jan Oskar Henkel, Managing Director, FASSMER, said: “Our collaboration with Elomatic allows us to meet the specific performance requirements for the METEOR IV’s dynamic positioning capability. The Elogrid technology enhances the vessel’s performance while contributing to efficient operations.” 

Damen Folla kicks off joint venture with new Aquaculture Service Vessel design

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This new identity marks the next step in a partnership focused on delivering high-quality and sustainable vessel solutions for the aquaculture sector.

The introduction of Damen Folla builds on the strategic relationship, began when Damen became the majority shareholder of Folla Maritime, announced in April this year. Folla Maritime contributes decades of experience in building aluminium workboats, while Damen brings a global network, offshore expertise, and a strong track record in delivering larger, steel vessels. Together, the two companies offer an expanded portfolio for the entire aquaculture value chain; from nearshore operations to offshore support.

“Damen Folla represents a new joint force for sustainable aquaculture solutions. With this joint venture, we unite local know-how with global scale,” says Jeroen van den Berg, Damen Product Director responsible for aquaculture and fishing. “This enables us to provide tailor-made solutions; from agile aluminium workboats to larger service vessels operating in rough offshore conditions.”

Folla Maritime sees the new name as a logical next step in expanding its offerings. “Our aluminium boats remain at the core of what we do,” says Otto Sjølien CEO at Folla Maritime. “Partnering with Damen opens new opportunities for larger, more complex projects, something we’re seeing growing demand for.”

As part of this joint commitment to innovation and sustainability, the new partners are proud to present in their first cooperation a preview of their latest development: the Aquaculture Service Vessel (AQSV) 2813. Compact yet powerful, this hybrid workboat (2-3 megawatt hours) combines a spacious 160 m² deck with three large cranes, making it ideal for a wide range of aquaculture and offshore operations, from net handling and anchor installation to ROV deployment, transport and towing. With advanced dynamic positioning (DP)  capability, a bollard pull of 280 kN, and future-proof design, Damen Folla says that  the AQSV 2813  sets a new standard for safe, sustainable, and versatile service operations at sea. The official launch will follow soon.

Damen Folla has paid special attention to the vessel’s silent crew accommodation, designed to maximise comfort and well-being during extended operations.

Damen previously supplied the Volt Processor, an advanced, multifunctional service vessel, to the Norwegian market. The Landing Utility Vessel (LUV) 2510 series has also proven successful in the UK aquaculture sector. Folla Maritime recently delivered vessels to Nova Sea and Vega Sjøfarm, including hybrid and electric-powered aluminium workboats.

Van Oord awarded land reclamation project in Dubai

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Van Oord has secured a contract for the land reclamation of Naïa Island Dubai, a new development located just off Jumeirah’s coastline. The project marks another milestone in Van Oord’s long-standing presence in the region, following its key role in the development of iconic projects such as Dubai Harbour, the World Islands and Palm Jumeirah.

Naïa Island Dubai, a landmark project by Shamal Holding, will span approximately 13 hectares and feature 6 kilometres of pristine beaches. Designed to reflect the natural beauty of an untouched island, the project places strong emphasis on preserving the existing beach environment with open green spaces and coastal terrain. Shamal Holding and Van Oord share a long-standing partnership, having successfully collaborated on several major coastal development projects in Dubai, including Dubai Harbour.

Abdulla Binhabtoor, CEO of Shamal Holding, said:

‘This partnership reinforces our commitment to elevating Dubai as a world-class luxury destination. Collaborating with top global partners like Van Oord brings our vision to life with precision and excellence. Their deep technical expertise and proven track record in iconic island developments make them the ideal partner for creating a destination of exceptional character.’

Building on a strong legacy of coastal development projects in Dubai, Van Oord will leverage its expertise to reclaim over 28 million cubic metres of sand and place approximately 4.3 million tonnes of rock. In addition, Van Oord will install key marine infrastructure, including quay walls and culverts, with a strong emphasis on nature-based enhancements. The project will also include the reorientation of existing beaches and the strategic relocation of current rock groynes, optimising both coastal protection and the guest experience.

To accelerate soil compaction and prepare the site for construction more efficiently, Van Oord will implement advanced ground improvement techniques. A fleet of cutting-edge dredging vessels, including trailing suction hopper dredgers, marine rock installation vessels, and other specialised equipment, will be deployed throughout the project. Completion is scheduled for the first half of 2027. 

Govert van Oord, CEO Van Oord, said:

‘We are honoured to contribute to this bold step forward in Dubai’s landmark development, and proud to have earned Shamal’s trust to help bring it to life. This unique project allows us to do what we do best, on familiar ground. Land reclamation is one of our signature talents, which we have continuously perfected since our business began.’

Anglo-Eastern selects Inmarsat’s NexusWave for Hadley Shipping Group

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Hadley Shipping Group is a long-standing Inmarsat Maritime user. Its transition to NexusWave represents a significant step forward in adopting a unified, bonded multi-orbit solution that will deliver enhanced performance, enterprise-grade cybersecurity, and a scalable platform for future operational needs and crew welfare.

Torbjorn Dimblad, Chief Information Officer, Anglo-Eastern, said: “With NexusWave, we’re able to leverage secure, high-performance connectivity through a truly integrated multi-network approach. This solution aligns with our vision of a digitally advanced fleet, and we’re looking forward to the results of the ongoing trials as we continue to roll out NexusWave across our managed vessels.”

Sunit Das, Director of Operations, Hadley Shipping Group, said: “Unlimited data is a key benefit of Inmarsat’s NexusWave, but our decision to invest goes beyond just bandwidth. This upgrade supports our long-term goals for operational efficiency and crew wellbeing. With the built-in cybersecurity and our confidence in Inmarsat’s capabilities, NexusWave enables us to future-proof our fleet as maritime data and connectivity demands evolve.”

NexusWave combines high-speed connectivity, resilient bonded networks, and seamless global coverage to meet the growing requirements of modern shipping. Designed for scalability, it supports everything from smart vessel operations to enhanced crew welfare programmes.

Gert Jan Panken, Global Vice President, Inmarsat Maritime, said “This collaboration with Anglo-Eastern and Hadley Shipping Group reflects our shared commitment to building smarter, safer, and more connected operations at sea. NexusWave is engineered to meet the complex challenges of modern maritime operations, and we’re proud to support our customers as they embrace the future of connectivity.”

New LNG carrier Al Zuwair delivered for QatarEnergy

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On August 18, the liquefied natural gas (LNG) carrier Al Zuwair was completed and delivered at the HHI Ulsan Shipyard of HD Hyundai Heavy Industries Co., Ltd. (HHI). The vessel will be deployed under a time-charter contract with QatarEnergy, one of the world’s largest LNG producers.

Al Zuwair is the third of 12 new LNG carriers being built for QatarEnergy by a joint venture comprising NYK, Kawasaki Kisen Kaisha, Ltd., MISC Berhad, and China LNG Shipping (Holdings) Limited. This delivery marks the first of these vessels built at HHI. Al Zuwair also represents the first instance in which the NYK Group will provide ship-management services for the consortium.

The ship is powered by two X-DF 2.1 iCER engines, highly fuel-efficient dual-fuel engines capable of using fuel oil and boil-off gas as fuel. Additionally, the vessel is equipped with an air lubrication system and a reliquefaction device that effectively uses surplus boil-off gas. These innovations promote efficient navigation and help reduce greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions, thereby minimizing environmental impact.

Vessel Particulars

  • Cargo capacity: approx. 174,000 m3
  • Length: approx. 299.00 m
  • Beam: 46.40 m
  • Main engine: X-DF2.1 iCER (dual-fuel slow-speed diesel engine)
  • Builder: HD Hyundai Heavy Industries Co., Ltd.

The core strategy of the NYK Group’s medium-term management plan, “Sail Green, Drive Transformations 2026,” is to deepen the Group’s existing core businesses and invest in new growth businesses. In its Energy Business Division, NYK has centered its strengthened efforts on the LNG/LPG carrier business, which the company has positioned as a growth area. NYK will contribute to realizing a stable energy supply in Japan by leveraging the experience, know-how, and networks the NYK Group has cultivated as one of the world’s largest LNG carrier-owning and management companies.

Incat Crowther commissioned to design new state-of-the-art passenger vessel

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Incat Crowther has been commissioned by Cruise Whitsundays, part of Australia’s leading experiential tourism group Journey Beyond, to design a new, state-of-the-art passenger vessel. Incat Crowther’s scope of work includes the vessel design, tender process for the construction and advice on procurement and commercial processes. The new 36-metre vessel will be built by Austal Vietnam.

The vessel will be deployed year-round as a resort connection service between Airlie Beach, the resorts of Daydream Island and Hamilton Island and Cruise Whitsundays’ Reef World pontoons – located 39 nautical miles from shore at Hardy Reef.

Designed specifically for local conditions, optimised for its routes and tailored to infrastructure, the new vessel will accommodate up to 390 guests – including 10 wheelchair accessible spaces – and will travel at speeds of 25 knots at low engine loading offering high reliability and efficiency.

The multi-deck vessel boasts a range of outdoor and indoor seating options for Cruise Whitsundays’ passengers – including an open-air upper deck that can seat up to 48 passengers and a large viewing platform. The upper deck is also home to a crew room, administration office and a full width wheelhouse with wing stations.

The vessel’s mid-deck features a 36-seat First Class lounge with exclusive viewpoints through large windows from the comfort of first class seating, a lounge and dedicated bar. The mid-deck also features a Premium Class lounge for 64 passengers, while a further 80 passengers have access to an undercover outdoor seating area. It also features passenger bathrooms, a buffet service area and access to the vessel’s main deck via an internal staircase.

The cleverly designed main deck can seat up to 160 passengers and offers a large buffet service area and separate bar, a spacious galley with cold and dry food storage areas, a first aid room and three bathrooms, including one wheelchair accessible bathroom.

Dan Mace, Technical Manager of Incat Crowther said: “We’re excited to be working on this vessel, which Cruise Whitsundays have specified needs to be fully focused on providing a world class tourism experience while optimising operational flexibility, reliability and safety.”

Sture Myrmell, Chief Operating Officer of Journey Beyond said: “With demand continuing to grow, Cruise Whitsundays required an experienced team to help us expand our fleet. Incat Crowther’s deep knowledge of the local conditions and track record of delivering tailored vessels for similar operators here in Australia and around the world were some of the key reasons we chose to partner with them on this project. Incat Crowther’s end-to-end service also means we have confidence that they will partner with us along every step of the way, from design to construction and operation. We’re excited to be working with Incat Crowther and Austal Vietnam and can’t wait to see the boat hit the water.”

The new vessel will be powered by two Mitsubishi S16 T2MPTK engines and will boast Naiad active ride Control Systems for added comfort in wave heights of up to 2.5-metres.

Saipem: milestone achieved in the development of the Yellowtail project in Guyana

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Saipem has successfully completed its designated scope of work for the development of the Yellowtail field, operated by ExxonMobil Guyana Ltd., located in approximately 1,800 metres of water within the Stabroek Block offshore Guyana.

Awarded the contract in 2022, Saipem undertook the Engineering, Procurement, Construction, and Installation (EPCI) of the Subsea Umbilical, Riser, and Flowline (SURF) system for the Yellowtail field. 

The FDS2 J-lay vessel, one of Saipem’s flagship assets, executed the installation of the rigid flowline and steel lazy wave risers in an early 2024 campaign. The project concluded in 2025 with the Saipem Constellation executing the installation of flexible risers, umbilicals, and the connection of the pre-laid rigid riser to the FPSO. 

Additionally, the Normand Samson, a Saipem-chartered MSV (Multi-Support Vessel), was involved throughout the offshore campaign from mid-2024, delivering subsea pre-commissioning, surveys, light construction, and installation of flowline jumpers fabricated at Saipem’s yard in Georgetown. 

Damen to deliver Stan Tug 1706 ICE to Chippewas of Georgina Island First Nation

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Damen Shipyards Group has recently signed a contract with the Chippewas of Georgina Island First Nation in Canada for the delivery of a Stan Tug 1706 ICE. The community will use the tug to break ice during the colder months, enabling its ferry service to operate for a longer duration each year, covering periods both earlier and later in the season. 

The Chippewas of Georgina Island community approached Damen having observed one of its tugs in operation in the region. The community is located on Lake Simcoe in Southern Ontario.

The acquisition of the Stan Tug 1706 ICE represents a vital improvement in community mobility and supply logistics. The remoteness of the Lake Simcoe region, and the harsh winter conditions it experiences, make safe, reliable transportation essential. 

With its ice breaking capabilities, the tug will ensure wider operability of the community’s ferry service between Georgina Island and Virginia Beach on the mainland.

Following construction of the hull in Poland, Damen will outfit the vessel in the Netherlands. Upon completion, Damen will deliver the vessel to Salaberry-de-Valleyfield in the Montreal region in September 2026, before the annual closure of the St. Lawrence Seaway. 

After that, the client will continue the voyage to Lake Simcoe via the Trent-Severn Waterway before that, too, is closed to marine traffic until the following year.  

The name of the tug has yet to be determined. However, it is known that it will receive a name with deep cultural meaning from one of the community’s elders in their native Anishinaabemowin, or Southern Ojibway, language. 

Damen Sales Manager Americas Dominique Smit, said, “We are pleased to support the Chippewas of Georgina Island First Nation with a vessel that will help to maintain ferry operations in harsh winter conditions. It is an honour to contribute to the community’s connectivity and resilience, and we look forward to a long lasting relationship.”