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DNV and RSI complete study on decarbonizing the short sea dry bulk fleet

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Amid increasing pressure on shipping to achieve the IMO 2050 decarbonization targets, the Responsible Shipping Initiative (RSI) and DNV have completed a new study: “Decarbonization of the short sea dry bulk fleet”, co-funded by the Swedish Transport Administration. 

Europe’s short sea general cargo fleet is ageing rapidly, with many vessels nearing the end of their operational life and few replacements on order. Most of these ships fall below the 5000 GT compliance threshold for international and EU emissions regulations, which means that shipowners often have litte incentive to invest in lower-emission vessels in line with decarbonization trajectories. As a result, cargo owners who rely on these vessels, including RSI members EFO AB, Lantmännen, SSAB, Stockholm Exergi and Södra, face a strategic challenge: how to secure future transport capacity that helps them meet their climate goals.

Sebastian Tamm, Chairman of RSI and Manager Logistics Development at EFO, said “Through RSI, we’ve long promoted responsible shipping, focusing on working conditions, health, and safety. During the COVID lockdown, we shifted our focus to decarbonization. However, our typical short-term Contracts of Affreightment limit shipowners’ ability to invest in radically different vessels. This study highlights the need to turn long-term decarbonization goals into actionable short-term targets for contracting. This will help with planning, investment, and compliance with new regulations. We appreciate DNV’s insights and support in developing this study with us.”

The project was divided into three work packages (WP). WP1 established emissions baselines for each RSI member using automatic identification system (AIS)-based modeling, due to the lack of primary emissions data. This helped identify key cargo segments for green fleet renewal based on transported volumes and emissions. WP2 examined the costs of introducing green ships and calculated the “green premium” for vessels powered by e-methanol compared to marine gas oil (MGO). Measures such as government support and improved transport efficiency were evaluated to reduce costs and workshops were held with shipowners and fuel providers. WP3 used a fleet renewal model to assess the pace of renewal required to meet climate targets, comparing this with alternative strategies such as biofuel blending and operational efficiency improvements.

Hannes von Knorring, Principal Consultant and Global Cargo Owner Segment Lead at DNV Maritime, said: “A major challenge in adopting low-emission fuels is the uncertainty shipowners face around long term costs and market demands. Cargo owners may also lack insights into fuel options and their impact on supply chain emissions. While the smaller vessels used by RSI members are not yet regulated they must report from this year on emissions to the EU, making it easier for cargo owners to collect data and set actionable targets. Through this project, RSI’s mission is to share knowledge, set standards, and find common ground for future shipping needs, and we are pleased to support their efforts.”

GTT completes the acquisition of Danelec

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GTT, a technology and engineering group specialising in containment systems for liquefied gases, today announced the completion of its acquisition of Danelec, a leading provider of advanced digital solutions for maritime data collection and analysis.

The transaction is expected to have an accretive impact on GTT’s earnings per share from the first year and unlocks significant growth and synergy potential across the Group’s digital activities.

With Danelec joining Ascenz Marorka and Vessel Performance Solutions in GTT’s Digital division, the Group now supports an installed base of more than 17,000 vessels worldwide, offering the industry’s most comprehensive suite of high-quality data and digital solutions. These capabilities empower customers to enhance safety, optimise ships operational performance, and achieve ambitious decarbonisation goals.

To lead the expanded Digital division, GTT has appointed Casper Jensen, current CEO of Danelec, as Executive Vice President Digital at GTT. As part of his new responsibilities, Casper Jensen also joins GTT Group’s Executive Committee.

Following the acquisition of Danelec, GTT’s Digital division will be structured into two key business units to better serve customer needs: Performance & Monitoring Solutions and Safety & Equipment. Under Casper Jensen’s leadership, the combination of Danelec, Ascenz Marorka, and Vessel Performance Solutions will aim to bring to market a unified, best-in-class digital platform, while delivering significant synergies.

Anouar Kiassi, current CEO of Ascenz Marorka, becomes Senior Vice President (SVP) of the Performance & Monitoring Solutions business unit, while Christian Kock, current Executive Vice President Safety at Danelec, takes on the role of SVP of the Safety & Equipment business unit within GTT’s Digital division.

‍Philippe Berterottière, Chairman and CEO of GTT group, said:

“With the acquisition of Danelec, GTT takes a decisive step forward in the digital sector. This transaction positions us as the world’s leading player in vessel performance management and enhances our ability to deliver advanced solutions for safety, efficiency, and decarbonisation. I am pleased that Casper Jensen, CEO of Danelec, will lead our Digital division and join GTT Group’s Executive Committee, bringing his expertise and vision to this next phase of growth. In a rapidly expanding digital maritime market, this acquisition reinforces our leadership and creates significant value for both our customers and our shareholders.”

Casper Jensen, Executive Vice President Digital at GTT, said: 

“I am honoured to lead GTT’s Digital division at this pivotal moment. By bringing together the strengths of Danelec, Ascenz Marorka, and Vessel Performance Solutions, we are creating a unified digital offering that empowers our customers to navigate their most pressing challenges, from operational performance to safety and decarbonisation. Our priority is to ensure continuity and deliver the high standards of innovation and service our clients expect, while accelerating the development of the industry’s leading digital platform.”

Sallaum Lines celebrates delivery of first in series of six green PCTCs from China

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Sallaum Lines announces the successful early delivery of the MV Ocean Breeze, a next-generation LNG dual-fuel Pure Car and Truck Carrier (PCTC) built by Fujian Mawei Shipbuilding in China. 

The Ocean Breeze was delivered on July 18, an impressive four months ahead of schedule, setting a new standard for green shipbuilding speed and precision. 

This delivery marks a significant deepening of the partnership between Europe’s leading automotive RORO carrier and China’s advanced maritime manufacturing sector. It also highlights the key role of Chinese financial institutions in supporting sustainable shipping, with Shenzhen Capital Group Co., Ltd providing tailored leasing solutions to support the transaction.  

Key Features of Ocean Breeze:  

  • Capacity: 7,500 CEU (Car Equivalent Units)  
  • Dimensions: 199.9m length × 38m beam, with 13 vehicle decks  
  • Technology: LNG dual-fuel main engine, electric RORO systems, and ultra-low emission profile  
  • Versatility: Equipped to carry conventional vehicles, new energy vehicles (NEVs), and packaged hazardous cargo  
  • Compliance: ABS-classed, exceeding IMO decarbonization standards  

The Ocean Breeze is part of a broader strategy by Sallaum Lines to establish a China focused global logistics network. The company has:  

  1. Ordered six additional green PCTCs from Chinese shipyards Fujian Mawei and CMHI Jinling.
  2. Opened a new office in Shanghai to support Chinese automotive manufacturers (OEMs) directly. 
  3. Committed to long-term collaboration across shipbuilding, financing, and service in China. 

“Our relationship with Chinese partners is rooted in trust, performance, and a shared commitment to sustainable maritime development,” said Mr. Sami Sallaum, Chairman of Sallaum Lines. “The Ocean Breeze showcases not just cutting-edge green technology, but also the power of international cooperation to accelerate the future of shipping.”  

Anemoi wins major UK funding to advance Rotor Sail design

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Anemoi Marine Technologies, the UK’s leading developer of wind-assisted ship propulsion systems, has won funding under the sixth round of the Clean Maritime Demonstration Competition. 

The £1.2 million project will include the development of a next-generation folding sail system tailored to Kamsarmax and Panamax bulk carriers, as well as aerodynamic design enhancements that will significantly increase fuel savings.

The UK Clean Maritime Demonstration Competition has so far directed £136 million in government funding to engineering innovators developing cutting-edge maritime decarbonisation solutions, with the aim of driving growth for coastal communities and cementing UK’s position as a clean energy leader. 

Clare Urmston, CEO of Anemoi, said: “This funding will support Anemoi in advancing the next generation of Rotor Sail technology. While our Rotor Sails are already efficient and high-performing, ongoing innovation is essential to unlock further efficiency gains, adapt to evolving vessel designs, and meet increasingly ambitious environmental targets. This investment underscores Anemoi’s potential to support the UK in sustainable shipping as the maritime industry works to cut emissions.”

Under the seven-month project, Anemoi will design, build and test a prototype of a new folding system for its 3.5m Rotor Sail. The result will be an industry-first for Rotor Sails of this size, as folding systems have previously only been used on larger 5m sails. By allowing sails to be lowered during port operations, the design will significantly reduce operational obstacles to the uptake of wind-assisted propulsion. Operational seamlessness is a core element of Anemoi’s offering, as the company also offers a unique rail deployment system, which allows the Rotor Sails to move along the deck of the ship.

In addition to the folding system development, the project will cover additional design optimisations, which are expected to improve the aerodynamic performance of wind-assisted vessels, delivering increased fuel savings and emissions reductions compared to Anemoi’s current state-of-the-art Rotor Sails.

The test rig will be manufactured by UK company Pressure Design Hydraulics Engineers, with aerodynamic enhancements developed in partnership with Cape Horn Engineering, supported by Stehr Consulting. Victoria Steamship, a UK-based shipbroker, will contribute insights based on its fleet of nine vessels operating globally in the bulk carrier segment, a primary market for folding Rotor Sails. The UK innovation accelerator Connected Places Catapult will conduct market research and a port and vessel integration study.

Triton completes the acquisition of MacGregor

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MacGregor is a global leader in sustainable maritime and offshore cargo and load handling, specialized in providing integrated solutions and services designed to perform with the sea. 

In 2024, MacGregor’s sales totalled approximately EUR 800 million and the company employs about 2,000 people across 30 countries.The acquisition of MacGregor is aligned with Triton’s strategy of investing in industrial technology leaders with strong engineering capabilities and a focus on mission-critical services. 

“The acquisition of MacGregor is aligned with Triton’s strategy of investing in industrial technology leaders with strong engineering capabilities and a focus on mission-critical services,” Triton said. “MacGregor’s trusted brand, high-quality equipment, and significant aftermarket potential make it a compelling addition to the portfolio.

“With a long track record of executing carve-outs, Triton is well positioned to support MacGregor’s transition to an independent company and its continued development as a global market leader.”

Japanese consortium to assess corrosion risks in ammonia fuel tanks

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ClassNK announced that a consortium it formed with IHI Corporation, JFE Steel Corporation, Tohoku University, and Institute of Science Tokyo was selected by New Energy and Industrial Technology Development Organization (NEDO) to participate in the Feasibility Study Program on Energy and New Environmental Technology. 

The consortium will promote the development of Stress Corrosion Cracking (SCC) Probability Evaluation Tools for Fuel Ammonia Storage Tank and Transportation Equipment. The consortium’s proposal to carry out the project was approved in May 2025 and an outsourcing agreement was concluded with NEDO recently.

Initially, the consortium will conduct a detailed study of the SCC mechanism involved in steel cracking due to the combined effects of mechanical stress and corrosion caused by liquid ammonia. Thereafter, the consortium plans to develop tools for easily and accurately assessing SCC probability. Finally, opinions will be solicited from stakeholders to formulate risk-based maintenance procedures for fuel ammonia storage and transportation facilities, and marine fuel tanks ultimately to promote the expanded use of fuel ammonia.

Ammonia, which does not emit CO2 when burned, offers great potential under Japan’s Green Growth Strategy as a low-impact fuel for thermal power stations and ships. Accordingly, the safe and rational operation of fuel ammonia storage tanks and transportation facilities is critical. However, because liquefied ammonia for storage and transportation poses SCC risks to steel surfaces, reasonable and practical assessment procedures for inspection and maintenance are required.

In this project, ClassNK will be responsible for investigating SCC mechanism of liquid ammonia and the actual use and condition of marine ammonia transport equipment, conducting long term SCC testing, and developing tools for easily and accurately assessing SCC probability. The findings obtained through this project are planned to be reflected and released in ClassNK’s various guidelines.

Tenth Fremm Unit “Emilio Bianchi” delivered to the Italian Navy

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This is the tenth unit of the FREMM (European Multi-Mission Frigates) class commissioned from Orizzonte Sistemi Navali as part of the Italy-France international cooperation agreement, whose contract was signed with OCCAR (Organisation Conjointe de Coopération en matière d’Armement).

With the delivery of the “Emilio Bianchi,” the construction of the naval units in the Anti-Submarine Enhanced configuration under the FREMM program has been completed. This is one of the most ambitious European initiatives in naval defense, launched in 2005, with the first ship delivered in May 2013. The program involved the construction of ten units: four in the General Purpose configuration, four in the Anti-Submarine Warfare configuration, and two in the Anti-Submarine Enhanced configuration.

In line with the objectives of the FREMM project, two next-generation “EVOLUTION” frigates – called “FREMM EVO” – are currently under construction at Fincantieri’s integrated shipyards in Riva Trigoso and Muggiano, with delivery scheduled for 2029 and 2030, respectively.

The “Emilio Bianchi,” built at Fincantieri’s Integrated Shipyard in Riva Trigoso and Muggiano, is equipped with the most advanced systems developed by Fincantieri, Leonardo, MBDA, and Elettronica. Like the other FREMM units, it is characterized by high operational flexibility and is capable of operating in all tactical scenarios. The ship is 144 meters long, 19.7 meters wide, and has a full-load displacement of approximately 6,700 tons. It can reach speeds of over 27 knots and accommodate up to 200 people onboard.

FREMM frigates represent a technological benchmark in Europe, standing out for their innovative features and high cyber resilience, the result of extensive design and management work. The high degree of automation, state-of-the-art onboard systems, and optimized maintenance operations ensure excellent operational availability. Comprehensive Human Factors studies have contributed to the creation of functional environments designed to improve operational efficiency and crew quality of life. The ship also offers significant autonomy – about 6,000 nautical miles at 15 knots – allowing it to operate for extended periods beyond the Mediterranean.

The FREMM (European Multi-Mission Frigate) program is the most important joint initiative developed between European naval industries and represents the state-of-the-art of Italian and European defense.

Port of Oakland joins effort to protect whales and the environment

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The Port of Oakland is joining Protecting Blue Whales and Blue Skies (BWBS) as one of its Program Ambassadors to help protect migrating whales and coastal air quality. 

Ambassadors work with participating shipping lines and help encourage greater industry participation in voluntary efforts that reduce fatal strike risk to endangered whales, air and underwater noise pollution, and greenhouse gas emissions.

BWBS is a voluntary Vessel Speed Reduction (VSR) verification and recognition program, formed by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), National Marine Sanctuaries, Bay Area Air District and California coastal county-based air pollution control districts. Participating shipping companies’ fleets travel at 10 knots (11.5 mph) or less in the VSR zones from May to December, which coincides with peak ozone and endangered whale presence. Traveling at decreased speeds significantly reduces whale and environmental impacts.

“The Port’s participation is another example of our commitment to environmental stewardship,” said Port of Oakland Environmental Director Colleen Liang. “This program will help our shipping partners meet the demands of commerce in a more sustainable way.”

As an ambassador, the Port of Oakland will help raise awareness of the program and encourage full participation from all shipping lines calling the Port. Carriers CMA CGM, MSC, Evergreen, Cosco, Hapag-Lloyd, Hyundai, Maersk, ONE, OOCL, Swire, Wan Hai, and Yang Ming‒which represents 84% of all vessel calls to the Port of Oakland last year‒have participated in the program.

BWBS independently verifies participants’ cooperation rates and quantifies the environmental benefits. Shippers are provided recognition to encourage further adoption of responsible shipping practices that help support and protect marine biodiversity, air quality and coastal communities.

“Blue Whales and Blue Skies is impactful, because of our rigorous verification of industry cooperation rates and quantification of environmental benefits. Support from our ambassadors enhances awareness and helps us express appreciation to high-performing shipping lines and encourage further industry adoption of measures to protect endangered whales and coastal air quality,” said Becca Tucker, BWBS Director of Corporate Engagement. “BWBS is proud to welcome one of the top ten ports in the country–the Port of Oakland–to this great program as an ambassador.”

Protecting Blue Whales and Blue Skies (BWBS) is a partnership between federal and local government agencies, foundations, and environmental nonprofits, including NOAA, the California Marine Sanctuary Foundation; Channel Islands, Chumash Heritage, Monterey Bay, Greater Farallones and Cordell Bank National Marine Sanctuaries; and the Ventura, Santa Barbara, San Luis Obispo, and Monterey Bay Air Pollution Control Districts, and the Bay Area Air District.

Fincantieri: “Viking Mira” launched in Ancona

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The “Viking Mira”, a new cruise ship under construction for Viking, was launched today at the Ancona shipyard. 

The ceremony, which marks the ship’s transition to the final outfitting phase, was attended by Gilberto Tobaldi, Director of the Ancona Shipyard, and Gastone Lazzari, New Building Site Team Manager for Viking.

With a gross tonnage of approximately 54,300 tons, “Viking Mira” will feature 499 staterooms and accommodate up to 998 passengers on board. The vessel belongs to the small cruise ship segment and is part of the Viking ocean fleet, entirely built by Fincantieri.

The long-standing relationship between the shipowner and the Group currently includes a total of 28 ships, taking into account the units already delivered, those on order, signed contracts, and recently secured option agreements.

All Viking units are built in accordance with the latest international regulations on navigation and safety and are equipped with high-efficiency engines and advanced exhaust gas treatment systems, designed to meet the most stringent environmental standards.

The Ancona shipyard confirms its position as one of the most strategic production hubs of the Group. Covering an area of 360,000 m², it boasts a production capacity of 60,000 GT, lifting systems of up to 500 tons, and hull construction capabilities of 1,200 tons per month. 

Since 2009, 20 vessels have already been delivered, thanks to the daily commitment of approximately 3,700 workers from various nationalities, backgrounds, and generations, united by a shared and tangible industrial goal. In line with innovation, the shipyard plays an active role in the Operations Excellence program, which entails the introduction of advanced technologies, robotics, and AI to increase efficiency and improve work quality.

Fugro partners with SDG Data Alliance to strengthen climate resilience in the Caribbean

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Fugro is teaming with the SDG Data Alliance to help Caribbean nations confront the growing risks of climate change. 

Through a newly formalised agreement, the partnership will support locally led efforts to strengthen coastal resilience by building technical capacity and improving access to decision-ready geospatial insights.

Many Caribbean SIDS face challenges in accessing the high-quality geospatial data, digital infrastructure and technical expertise needed to assess risk and plan effective adaptation strategies. Drawing on a history of success in the region, Fugro will help close these gaps by providing high-resolution mapping, expert analysis, data visualisation and hands-on training. These efforts will be channelled through the SIDS Global Data Hub, a digital platform within the SIDS Centre of Excellence. The work will also be aligned with the Antigua and Barbuda Agenda for SIDS (ABAS), a roadmap adopted at the 2024 UN SIDS4 Conference to help island nations achieve resilient prosperity.

Greg Scott, Executive Director of the SDG Data Alliance, said: “The Data Alliance was founded as a multi-stakeholder partnership and is driven by public-private collaboration that is focused, practical and built for impact. Fugro brings the kind of technical depth and regional experience that can turn ambition into action. Their support will help us expand the reach and impact of the SIDS Global Data Hub and deliver on the promise of ABAS.”

Céline Gerson, Fugro’s Group Director for the Americas and President of Fugro USA, said: “We know that real progress happens when communities lead. Our work with the Data Alliance is about equipping government and community stakeholders with the Geo-data tools to drive their climate response on their terms and timelines. We’re excited to continue this work in collaboration with the Alliance and contribute to a more resilient future for Caribbean SIDS.”

This new partnership follows Fugro’s recent agreement with Esri, a founding member of the Data Alliance, to expand access to essential data and tools for climate resilience. It also comes ahead of next week’s fifteenth session of the UN Committee of Experts on Global Geospatial Information Management (UN-GGIM), where Dr. Valrie Grant, a geospatial professional and Caribbean lead in Fugro’s Climate and Nature practice, will represent the company. Dr Grant, who joined Fugro in May, will play a key role in advancing the impact of both partnerships across the region.