C&C Marine and Repair Hold Keel Laying Ceremony for Hybrid Escort Tugs
C&C Marine and Repair held a keel laying ceremony at its Belle Chasse shipyard, marking a milestone in a new series of four hybrid escort tugs being built for Green Tug Towing (GTT). The vessels will support LNG carrier operations at Woodside Energy's Louisiana LNG terminal in Calcasieu Parish.The GTT series joins a separate series of four hybrid escort tugs already under construction at C&C, bringing the shipyard's active tugboat program to a total of eight vessels. Together…
Dajin Expands Offshore Wind Logistics Fleet with KING TWO Launch
China-based offshore wind foundations manufacturer Dajin Heavy Industry has launched a 40,000 DWT deck carrier, KING TWO, at its Panjin shipbuilding facility.The vessel, launched on April 19, is the second large-scale deck carrier built at the facility, following KING ONE, which has already completed its maiden voyage.KING TWO measures 239.8 meters in length, 51 meters in breadth and 13 meters in depth, with a deck area of 12,000 square meters.The vessel is equipped with dual engines and dual propellers…
BGN Orders Four Dual-Fuel VLGCs from South Korean Shipyard
Dubai-based energy and commodities trading group BGN has signed a contract with HD Hyundai Heavy Industries for the construction of four new dual-fuel Very Large Gas Carriers (VLGCs).The vessels, each with a capacity of 90,000 cbm, will be built in Korea and delivered by 2029, strengthening BGN’s position in the global LPG market and enhancing its integrated trading and logistics capabilities.Designed to operate on both conventional and lower-emissions fuels, the newbuilds are also capable of carrying ammonia…
Australian Government Seals Deal with MHI for Frigates
The Australian government and Mitsubishi Heavy Industries (MHI) have concluded a contract for the construction of three upgraded Mogami-class frigates for Australia's General Purpose Frigate (GPF) program.In August 2025, the Australian government selected MHI's upgraded Mogami-class frigate (4,800 ton type) as the preferred platform to proceed to the next stage in the selection process for the country's GPF program.Construction will begin at MHI's Nagasaki Shipyard & Machinery Works in cooperation with the Australian government…
Woodside Orders Four Tugs for Louisiana LNG
Woodside Energy has awarded a services contract to Green Tug Towing – a joint venture of Harbor Docking & Towing and Saltchuk Marine – for the design and construction of four new tugs to be built at C&C Marine and Repair in Belle Chase, Louisiana, and delivered to Louisiana LNG in 2028.With this award, valued at more than $300 million, Woodside and its contractors have now committed more than $1 billion to Louisiana suppliers for the foundational development of the Louisiana LNG…
Amtech Delivers ATB MAM 141 & Tug Battery Park
New U.S.-Flag coastwise registered tonnage was delivered into service April 18, 2026 by Alternative Marine Technologies (AMTECH) as Vessel Construction Managers. The ATB MAM 141 & Tug Battery Park departed Gulf Marine Repair of Tampa, Florida after completing a major conversion and reconstruction to chemical and petroleum service. The barge was refitted with a full stainless steel cargo system and cargo tanks coated with Advanced Polymer Coatings Marine Line 784. The coating application was reportedly the first job with the polymer completed in the United States…
PSA Marine Receives 16th Z-Tech 6000 Tug
In 2024, Cheoy Lee Shipyards of Hong Kong delivered the first boat of Robert Allan Ltd.’s new Z-Tech 6000 design, the PSA Gemini, to PSA Marine of Singapore. Less than two years later the 16th and final boat of that contract, the PSA Nebula, has left the shipyard for its home in the Port of Singapore. The various boats of this series are now operating successfully in PSA Marine’s fleet, with seven in Singapore, six in Thailand, one in Peru and two in Panama. They add to the fleet…
Fincantieri, NCL Launch Cruise Ship Newbuild Ahead of 2027 Delivery
Italy’s Fincantieri and Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL) have launched the cruise ship Norwegian Aura at the Monfalcone shipyard, marking the start of the vessel’s final outfitting phase ahead of delivery scheduled for spring 2027.With a gross tonnage of about 170,000 tonnes and a length of 344 metres, Norwegian Aura is around 10% larger than previous Prima Plus-class ships Norwegian Aqua and Norwegian Luna.The vessel features 1,976 cabins and can accommodate approximately 3,880 passengers.
Fincantieri, Princess Ink Deal for Three LNG-Fueled Ships
Fincantieri and Princess Cruises signed an agreement for the construction of three new LNG-powered cruise ships. The vessel, part of a new “Voyager” class, will be built at Fincantieri’s Monfalcone yard, with deliveries scheduled for 2035, 2038 and 2039. While financial details were not disclosed, the contract has been described as significant and remains subject to financing and standard conditions.Each ship will be approximately 183,000 gross tons and carry around 4,700 passengers, placing them among the larger vessels in the Princess fleet.
Holland America Line to Upgrade Six Ships
Building on strong momentum and record performance, Holland America Line has announced Holland America Evolution, a multiyear investment to reimagine six ships.Representing the most ambitious guest experience update in the company's 153-year history, Evolution will deliver a comprehensive bow-to-stern revitalization while bringing the best of its Pinnacle Class ships to most of the fleet.Evolution will span the four Holland America Vista Class ships — Oosterdam, Zuiderdam, Westerdam and Noordam — and the two Signature Class ships, Nieuw Amsterdam and Eurodam.
Alternative-Fuel Inflection Point: Gotland Horizon X and the Port Hydrogen Question
Gotland Horizon X is a 130-meter, 18,300-gt, 1,500-passenger, 400-car, 30-knot catamaran now under construction at Austal for delivery in summer 2028. Positioned as hydrogen-ready from day one, the vessel is not a technology demonstrator. It is a frontline Ro-Pax ferry designed to maintain timetable integrity while opening a credible pathway toward hydrogen. For ports and fuel suppliers, that distinction matters. Horizon X is less about a single vessel and more about what it signals: future-fuel ships are coming that will demand corresponding evolution ashore.Jonas Moberg…
Fincantieri Wins $30m US Navy Contract for Four Vessels
Italian shipbuilder Fincantieri said on Wednesday its Fincantieri Marine Group unit has won a $30 million contract with the U.S.
Cruise Shipbuilding Keeps European Yards Busy to mid-2030s
A flourishing cruise market and European shipbuilders’ unerring contractual success in the sector has taken orderbooks into the middle of the next decade, ensuring production continuity and underpinning fresh capital expenditure and R&D commitments by the continent’s foremost players.Just how important the segment is to the industry and supply chain may be gauged from the fact that at least three-quarters of the value of European yards’ commercial orderbooks is attributable to…
Fincantieri Wins First U.S. Navy LSM Contract, Advances 35-Ship Program
Fincantieri has secured its first contract under the U.S. Navy’s Medium Landing Ship (LSM) program, marking an early step in what could become a 35-vessel procurement central to future expeditionary operations.The $30 million award to Fincantieri Marine Group covers long-lead materials procurement and engineering work for the first four vessels. The contract enables the yard to begin early-stage industrial preparation, with construction expected to start in the fourth quarter of 2026.The LSM program is designed to support distributed maritime operations…
Destroyer USS Harvey C. Barnum Jr. Commissioned
The Navy’s newest Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer USS Harvey C. Barnum Jr. (DDG 124) was commissioned in Norfolk, Virginia, April 11, 2026.Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer USS Harvey C. Barnum Jr. (DDG 124) was commissioned before a crowd of approximately 1,800 guests, including senior military leaders, Sailors, Marines, veterans and family members.“This is the first vessel to bear the name of a Vietnam War Medal of Honor recipient, and Col Barnum’s actions…
Amtech Issues RFP for Microcontainer Feeder Vessels
Alternative Marine Technologies has issued a RFP to three major U.S. Shipbuilding companies for a 2+2 series build of a 230 TEU Microcontainer Feeder. The project is based upon the Conoship CIP230TEU design currently operating in Europe. The design is complete through production drawings, 3D modeled and available with the availability of a virtual “walkthrough” of the vessel. Short sea operator Vega Reederei has joined the project team handling commercial operations. The vessels in Europe operate successfully with a 9-man crew, similar to U.S. ATB manning.
Shipbuilding: Changing Shipyard Dynamics in Japan
Continuous design refinement and incremental productivity gains — reflecting the Japanese concept of kaizen — alongside unremitting attention to contractual performance and product quality have seen the country’s shipbuilders maintain a high profile in certain sectors of the commercial vessel market.The industry’s scale, reach and financial returns, though, have suffered from the onslaught of competition from its Asian counterparts, most notably China and South Korea, both of whom the Japanese contend benefit from both overt and covert state financial intervention.By the measure of output…
Meyer Turku: Cruise Vessel Demand Drives Strong Orderbook
In the world of large cruise ship construction, few yards operate at the level of Meyer Turku, which recently unveiled its 2025 results which serve as a turning point, not just in financial recovery, but in long-term strategic positioning.The numbers, at first glance, tell a familiar post-pandemic story. Turnover climbed to €2.14 billion, up more than 17% year-on-year, while adjusted EBIT reached €105.1 million, marking a continued recovery from losses just two years prior. But beneath the financials lies a more consequential shift: a yard restructuring itself for independence…
Firming Baltic Dry Index is Headwind for Recyclers
The single most consequential development of Week 15 came out of Washington, not the recycling yards, reports cash buyer GMS. President Trump’s decision to delay planned strikes on Iranian energy infrastructure by five days, alongside comments describing talks with Iran as “productive,” triggered the sharpest oil reversal since the conflict began.The Baltic Dry Index rose to 2,139 by April 8, continuing a recovery that began from the March trough and extending to its highest level since early March.
Saturn Launched, First in New RAL Rapport 3000 Escort Tug Series
Master Boat Builders launched Saturn, the first vessel in the new H500 series of Rapport 3000 escort tugs built for Suderman & Young Towing Company, marking Master Boat’s entry into a new class of high-performance escort tug design. The Saturn (H500) marks the first of four vessels in the H500 series, with H501 through H503 currently under construction.The Saturn represents a significant step forward in escort tug capability. With an overall length of 98 feet, a molded beam of 43 feet, and a bollard pull capacity of more than 90 metric tons, the vessel is powered by two engines producing a combined 7,000 hp and is capable of approximately 13 knots.
Vale, Shandong Shipping Sign Deal for Ethanol-Powered Carriers
Brazilian mining firm Vale has signed an agreement with China's Shandong Shipping Corporation to build the world’s first ocean-going vessels powered primarily by ethanol, as part of efforts to cut emissions in maritime transport.The agreement covers the construction of two Guaibamax bulk carriers under 25-year contracts, with delivery scheduled from 2029 and options for additional vessels.The ships will be capable of running on ethanol, methanol and conventional bunker fuel, with…
Pacific Nations Face Commercial Roadblock for Wind Propulsion
The Republic of the Marshall Islands took delivery of the sailing cargo vessel Juren Ae in October 2024, and it marked a new era in wind-propelled transport in Oceania.The vessel’s name refers to the “steering paddle” on a Marshallese canoe, and its construction was the result of the efforts of the Pacific Blue Shipping Partnership, co-chaired by Fiji and the Marshall Islands. The partnership includes other nations such as Kiribati, Solomon Islands, Tonga, Vanuatu, Tuvalu, the Federated States of Micronesia, and Palau.
Boreal Orders 20 Electric Hydrofoil Ferries
Norwegian ferry operator Boreal has ordered 20 electric hydrofoil vessels from Swedish Candela Technology.Norway has long been a world leader in electrification of the car fleet and battery-powered ferries on short routes. However, express ferries – the fast passenger vessels that connect coastal communities over long distances – have been a challenge.The Candela P12 is the first electric vessel to combine 25 knots cruising speed and around 40 nautical miles range, with accommodation…
Born into Maritime: John McDonald, Chairman & CEO, ABS
Many claim to have ‘saltwater in their veins,’ but all you have to do is walk into the corner office of John McDonald, the new Chairman and CEO of the American Bureau of Shipping (ABS), to see that him saying “I was born into maritime” is not hyperbole. The first thing that greets you is a Dusan Kadlec nighttime painting of the Brooklyn Bridge, a painting that has special meaning to him as he fondly remembers being on a boat in New York harbor in 1983, his father USCG Captain of the Port of New York at that time, watching the fireworks over the bridge for the celebration.
‘World’s First’ Ammonia Dual-Fuel Ocean Carriers Named in South Korea
Belgian shipowner Exmar has named two ocean-going ammonia dual-fuel midsize gas carriers, said to be the world’s first, marking a milestone in the development of low-emission shipping.The two vessels, ANTWERPEN and ARLON, were built in South Korea in cooperation with HD Hyundai as part of a multi-year development programme.Each vessel has a cargo capacity of about 46,000 cubic metres, including 45,000 cubic metre cargo tanks and two 500 cubic metre deck tanks. The design incorporates…
Northern Lights Adds Third CO2 Carrier to Expand CCS Network
The Northern Lights JV has added a third liquefied carbon dioxide (LCO2) carrier to its fleet, as it expands transport capacity for Europe’s carbon capture and storage (CCS) network.The vessel, Northern Phoenix, was formally welcomed in Bergen and will support the scaling of cross-border CO2 transport under the Northern Lights project.Designed to transport liquefied CO2, the ship will carry captured emissions from Yara to the Northern Lights receiving terminal in Øygarden, where…
Sanmar Shipyards Celebrates Successful Sea Trials of 14th All-Electric Tug
Sanmar Shipyards has announced the successful completion of sea trials for its 14th fully electric tugboat, marking an achievement in the company’s 50th-anniversary year. This latest vessel, an ElectRA 2500SX design, reinforces Sanmar’s position as a global leader in the transition toward a sustainable, emissions-free towage industry.The ElectRA Series was created through an exclusive partnership with Canadian naval architects Robert Allan Ltd. This collaboration introduces a new way of managing harbor operations by focusing on sustainable technology and modern design.
HII Teams with GrayMatter Robotics to Integrate AI into Shipbuilding
HII and GrayMatter Robotics (GMR) have signed a memorandum of understanding to explore the integration of GMR’s Physical AI into shipbuilding operations that could accelerate throughput.This will include bringing autonomous surface preparation, coating, and inspection technologies into shipbuilding.Eric Chewning, HII’s executive vice president of maritime systems and corporate strategy, said: “We are in the midst of an American shipbuilding renaissance and we are extremely excited…
Mesabi Metallics Secures Funding for New Steel Plant
Mesabi Metallics, backed by Essar Group, has secured $150 million of financing from Macquarie Group, supporting the Q3 2026 startup of its world-scale Direct Reduction (DR) grade iron ore mine and pellet plant in Nashwauk, Minnesota.The financing follows Mesabi's recently announced $520 million senior secured credit facility with Breakwall Capital, further reinforcing the strong momentum behind the project.Mesabi has also recently received support from the U.S. Export-Import Bank (EXIM), reflecting the project's growing strategic importance to U.S.
NYK Uses Recycled Material for Car Lashing Belts
Nippon Yusen Kabushiki Kaisha (NYK), NYK Trading Corporation, and Rexxam have jointly introduced “eco CLASPER”, a newly developed car lashing belt made from 99.5% recycled polyester fiber.On March 26, the three companies completed the installation of the belts on the newly built pure car and truck carrier Elder Leader. Compared to conventional products, “eco CLASPER” reduces GHG emissions generated during the weaving process by approximately 28.3%.Car carriers require vast quantities of lashing belts to secure vehicles during transportation.
Fuel Transition: Emissions Targets and Cost Management
ClassNK’s Fleet Cost Simulation service is reducing the heavy burden on shipping companies attempting to estimate the costs of transitioning to low- and zero-emission operations.Over more than two decades, regulators have worked towards providing the frameworks within which low- or zero-carbon fuels, energy efficient ship design, operational data and new technologies can support maritime decarbonization. Over that time, it is fair to say that there has often been tension between shipping’s agreement in principle to tightening regulation and its cost concerns.Certainly…
Damen Launches Multi-Purpose Vessel for the Portuguese Navy
Damen Shipyards Group has launched the NRP D. João II a Multi-Purpose Vessel (MPV) 10720 for the Portuguese Navy. The vessel entered the water at Damen Shipyards Galati in Romania on April 7. The launch event took place in the presence of Vice Admiral Pires on behalf of the Portuguese Navy, Rear Admiral Neculae representing the Romanian Naval Forces, His Excellency Paulo Alves Cunha, Ambassador of Portugal in Romania, and Her Excellency Mrs Willemijn van Haaften, Ambassador of…
Jan De Nul Launches Second Giant Cable Laying Vessel
Belgian marine contractor Jan De Nul has launched its second next-generation cable laying vessel (CLV), William Thomson, as it expands capacity to support growing offshore wind and grid interconnection projects.The William Thomson vessel follows the earlier launch of its sister ship Fleeming Jenkin in October 2025, with both units set to become the largest cable-laying vessels of their kind.Both vessels, launched at CMHI Haimen shipyard in China, measure 215 meters in length and has a cable-carrying capacity of 28…
SDHI Books Order for Four Ammonia Dual-Fuel Bulk Carriers
Swan Defence and Heavy Industries Limited (SDHI) has secured an order from Energy ONE Limited to build four ammonia dual-fuel bulk carriers, marking the first such vessels to be constructed in India.The contract covers four 92,500-deadweight tonne bulk carriers, which will be among the largest commercial ships built at an Indian yard, the company said.The vessels will measure about 229.5 meters in length with a beam of 37 meters and will be equipped with ammonia-fueled propulsion systems.
Gulf Coast Shipbuilding is the Anchor for America’s Maritime Comeback
The future of shipbuilding and maritime competitiveness will be featured at the Maritime Risk Symposium 2026, hosted by the Institute for Homeland Security, Sam Houston State University. On June 2–3 at LyondellBasell Center for Petrochemical, Energy and Technology in Pasadena, Texas, leaders from industry and academia will examine the strategy, workforce, investment, and partnerships needed to advance America’s maritime comeback.A new era in American shipbuilding is emerging—and the U.S. Gulf Coast stands at its center.
Novatek Establishes Company to Build Vessels, Floating Facilities Amid Global Tanker Shortage
Russia's largest producer of liquefied natural gas Novatek has set up a company to build its own vessels and floating facilities, according to the state's registry of authorised companies, amid a shortage of gas tankers due to sanctions.Ilya Lushchikov, who is also head of Novatek's Murmansk LNG project, is in charge of the new company, called Severny Inzhiniring, or Northern Engineering, which was set up on March 25, according to the registry.Novatek did not reply to a request for comment.Western sanctions imposed in 2022 significantly limited the availability for Russia of ice-class tankers
Sanmar Shipyards, Med Tugs to Expand Mediterranean Tugboat Fleet with Newbuilds
Sanmar Shipyards and Med Tugs have officially entered into a strategic agreement for the construction and delivery of two tugboats. Executed through the joint venture company SVS—comprising Vernicos Scafi, Spanopoulos, and Lyboussakis—the project marks an investment in the future of Greek maritime infrastructure.The vessels, scheduled for delivery in September 2026 and September 2027, will be stationed at the Port of Piraeus. Designed to handle the increasingdemands of one of Europe’s busiest maritime hubs…
Ship Recyclers Face Clouded Price Recovery Outlook
Geopolitical risk has overtaken supply-demand fundamentals as the primary price driver in energy markets, and ship recycling is feeling the impact from both sides, as higher oil keeps aging vessels trading while a volatile U.S. dollar makes confident bidding difficult to sustain, says cash buyer GMS.India delivered the week’s most notable currency development, as the rupee rebounded sharply from its record low of 94.42 to 92.73 following intervention measures by the Reserve Bank of India…
ClassNK Awards Autonomous Notation to Domestic Container Ship
ClassNK has granted its “AUTO-Nav2(All)" notation to Japanese domestic liner container ship Genbu, the only newly constructed autonomous ship under the MEGURI2040 Fully Autonomous Ship Program by The Nippon Foundation.This notation identifies ships equipped with an autonomous navigation system approved by ClassNK, and it marks the world’s first case of an autonomous navigation notation being assigned to a vessel operating on medium- to long-distance coastal routes. The vessel was constructed by Kyokuyo Shipyard Corporation…
Serco to Build Lord Howe Island Freight Vessel
Serco has been selected for the design and build of a new freight vessel to support World Heritage listed Lord Howe Island’s critical freight needs for the next 40 years.The project, part of the NSW Government’s Lord Howe Island Critical Infrastructure Program, will deliver a vessel designed to meet stringent environmental and biosecurity standards, helping provide critical protection for the native plant, bird and insect species present.The new vessel will feature roll-on roll…
C&C Marine & Repair Delivers Double-Hull Tank Barge
C&C Marine & Repair has delivered CTOW 330, a new double-hull tank barge designed for bunker service and built to support modern fuel-handling requirements across lakes, bays, and sounds service routes to Colonial Towing.Measuring approximately 297'06" x 54'00" x 16'00", CTOW 330 has a nominal cargo capacity of about 28,000 U.S. barrels and features a flush deck extending the full length and breadth of the vessel. The barge is designed for U.S. Coast Guard authorization for Subchapter “D” cargoes…
Polar Max Project Celebrates Start of Construction
The Polar Max project reached an important milestone as Davie and ALMACO officially marked the start of construction with a project kickoff ceremony at Davie’s shipyard in Lévis, Québec. The event signaled the formal transition from planning and design into full execution for one of Canada’s most significant shipbuilding programs under the National Shipbuilding Strategy.Polar Max is a next‑generation icebreaking vessel designed to strengthen Canada’s Arctic and maritime capabilities.
ASRY, stc Bahrain Launch Vehicle Fleet Management System
The Arab Shipbuilding and Repair Yard Company (ASRY) completed the implementation of its vehicle fleet management and tracking system, developed in partnership with stc Bahrain, a digital enabler in the Kingdom.This project, which forms part of a broader series of strategic initiatives between the two parties, aligns with ASRY’s ongoing efforts to enhance operational excellence and drive its digital transformation through the adoption of emerging technologies and the execution of high impact projects that support the company’s continued growth and development.
AAL Names Latest Heavy Lift Ship
AAL Shipping (AAL) has named its latest Super B-Class heavy lift vessel, AAL Newcastle, at the CSSC Huangpu Wenchong Shipyard in Guangzhou, China. The ceremony also served as the backdrop for the ordering of two further Super B-Class vessels. AAL Tianjin and AAL Miami, will join the fleet in early 2028, expanding the class to ten ships in total.Purpose built for heavy lift and complex project cargo, the 32,000dwt AAL Newcastle and AAL Mumbai (due for delivery in June 2026), will debut a series of significant technical improvements that elevate lifting performance and cargo flexibility.
Maritime Strategies International Appoints North America Director
Maritime Strategies International (MSI) has appointed John Moulopoulos as Director, North America, with responsibility for business development in the Americas.He joins MSI from Marsoft and in addition to working with North American shipowners and maritime investors he will draw on his heritage and network to support MSI customers in Greece. He will leverage his previous experience in data delivery to bring additional capacity and insight to MSI’s HORIZON and SEASCAPE platforms.Moulopoulos…
Magnet Defense Begins Production of First M48 Platform
Magnet Defense today announced beginning production of its first deliverable M48 unmanned surface vessel (USV), marking a pivotal milestone as the M48 transitions from an operationally validated prototype program to a production platform.The M48 offers a range of up to 17,000 nautical miles and the ability to self-deploy from San Diego to the Arabian Gulf, unassisted and without refueling. This performance is best-in-class and a significant differentiator amongst competitors in terms of combined range…
IACS 2025 Annual Review Highlights Safety Role of Class
The International Association of Classification Societies (IACS) has released its 2025 Annual Review which showcases the central role played by IACS and its members in supporting safety standards and driving technical innovation in the maritime industry.The report identifies many areas of progress, including IACS’s ongoing role in supporting decarbonisation objectives. Through its Safe Decarbonisation Panel, IACS is supporting progress in alternative fuels, whilst remaining neutral on any preferred option.
Port Authority of Puerto Quetzal to Receive Damen ASD Tug 2312
Damen Shipyards Group client Arrendadora Continental has been awarded a contract by the Port Authority of Puerto Quetzal to operate an additional tug, making a total of six tugs operating in the harbor on Guatemala’s Pacific coast. To fullfil its contractual responsibilities, the company will take delivery of a Damen ASD Tug 2312 later this year. The company is the largest tug operator in Guatemala. When this latest vessel is delivered, Arrendadora Continental will operate four vessels in the country.
Navantia UK Welcomes Northern Ireland's Secretary of State to Harland & Wolff Shipyard
Navantia UK welcomed the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland, Rt Hon Hilary Benn MP, to the Harland & Wolff shipyard, just over a year since the company’s acquisition and the launch of plans to revitalize the historic site for the future.The visit focused on Belfast’s growing role at the heart of the UK’s shipbuilding capability, with the Secretary of State touring newly extended fabrication facilities, meeting the almost 500-strong workforce including 93 current apprentices…
Kangnam to Build New Incat Crowther 80m Vessel Design
Incat Crowther was commissioned by South Korean shipbuilder Kangnam Corporation (Kangnam) to design a new 80-m high-speed catamaran RoPax ferry for operation by Korea Express Ferry (KEF). The new vessel will service routes between Incheon Metropolitan City and the Yellow Sea islands of Daecheongdo, Baengnyeongdo and Socheongdo in Ongjin County, Republic of Korea (South Korea).The project renews the successful partnership between Incat Crowther, Kangnam and KEF, with the companies…
Saronic Closes $1.75B Series D Funding
Saronic Technologies today announced it has closed $1.75 billion in Series D funding to advance its mission of delivering autonomous platforms at scale across defense and commercial sectors. The round was led by Kleiner Perkins and values the company at $9.25 billion.Saronic welcomes Advent International, Bessemer Venture Partners, DFJ Growth, BAM Elevate, and other new partners and recognizes the continued commitment of its existing investors, including 8VC, Caffeinated Capital…
Ship Recycling Market Under Strain as Geopolitical Factors Weigh on Economics
The global ship recycling market is moving into a more difficult quarter, with rising costs, rising steel prices, possible slowdown in local steel demand, energy shortages and exchange risks. Even within the Indian sub-continent these parameters can have differing impacts. As of today, Bangladesh and Pakistan hold firmer ground in terms of prices offered for recycling candidates, according to vessel cash buyer Wirana Shipping’s latest market report.Wirana’s industry report points to a market that is becoming harder to read and harder to time.
Damen Signs Contract to Deliver Combi Freighters (CF) 3850 to the Polidano Group
Damen Shipyards Group has signed a contract with Polidano for the delivery of two Combi Freighters (CF) 3850. The Malta-based company will use the vessels primarily for the transport of aggregates for its construction business. The new vessels will be named Denise P and Julia P in honor of Polidano family members.Polidano approached Damen due to the reputation of the CF 3850 in the market. The company will use the vessels to replace a single vessel it currently operates, thereby significantly increasing its cargo capacity.Polidano typically transports aggregates from Montenegro to Malta.
Ship Recyclers Face Market Confusion
As the world's ship recycling markets emerge from the Eid al-Fitr holidays, they do so into an environment that continues to generate more questions than answers, says cash buyer GMS.“The post-holiday reopening, always anticipated as a potential catalyst for pent-up activity, has instead delivered something more characteristic of the broader 2026 narrative: confusion. Steel plate prices played opposite roles in Pakistan and India this week, as Indian levels recorded an impressive jump while Pakistani levels continued to bleed, declining non-stop over the course of the last month now.
Stena RoRo Takes Delivery of 13th E-Flexer
Stena RoRo has taken delivery of the 13th ship in the 15-ship series of E-Flexer RoPax ferries from the China Merchants Industry shipyard in Weihai, China.The ship, named Capu Rossu, was handed over to Corsica Linea following the delivery to Stena RoRo. The ship will start its commercial operation mid-June and will trade between Marseille and Corsica.The E-Flexer-series is based on a design which is larger than the typical standard RoPax ferry and designed for flexibility. Each ship is tailormade for the operators’ technical and commercial needs.
Damen Delivers Second Combi Freighter 3850 to Reederei Bernd Sibum
On March 25, Damen Shipyards Group delivered the second of four Combi Freighters (CF) 3850 to Reederei Bernd Sibum following successful sea trials in Shanghai. The vessels are being constructed at Damen Yichang Shipyard in China. The first vessel, delivered at the beginning of February, is currently on its maiden voyage, bound for Norway with a project cargo.The new generation CF 3850 vessels are designed for high efficiency. In their standard form the vessels are able to sail on 100% biofuel and are prepared for hybrid propulsion.
Thordon Bearings Appoints Engineering Leads
Thordon Bearings has announced two significant appointments which reinforce its commitment to meet growing demand for high performance, pollution-free seawater-lubricated bearings and seals in commercial shipping.Anthony Hamilton has been appointed VP of Engineering and Product Development of Thomson-Gordon Group (TGG), the parent company of Thordon Bearings, with a mission to leverage group-wide capabilities in growing its merchant marine business.Based in Burlington, Ontario, Canada, Hamilton has led TGG’s engineering and new product development as Technical Director since 2021.
UK Government Prioritizes Domestic Shipbuilding
Shipbuilding, steel, AI and energy infrastructure will be recognized as critical for national security, with new guidance prioritizing contracts for British business where necessary to protect national security.Recent events have shown the fragility of global supply chains, and the importance of ensuring domestic capacity in key sectors which are vital for national security.For the first time, the government is introducing clear guidance on how departments can protect the UK’s economic security and build resilience in four critical sectors: steel, shipbuilding, AI and energy infrastructure.
BIMCO: 130 Container Ships Stranded in Persian Gulf
BIMCO has released its Container Shipping Market Overview & Outlook March 2026 saying the Iran war amplifies outlook uncertainty."Following the start of attacks on Iran on 28 February, transits through the Strait of Hormuz have effectively stopped, severing Persian Gulf ports from global container services. As a result, around 130 container ships, totalling about 1.5% of the global fleet’s capacity, are stranded in the gulf. The war has added uncertainty to an outlook that was already obscured by ever changing US tariffs…
Hapag-Lloyd Earnings Down from Last Year
Hapag-Lloyd has published its annual report for the 2025 fiscal year, announcing that the group EBITDA stood at $3.6 billion (EUR 3.2 billion) and profits at $1.0 billion (EUR 0.9 billion).The result was at the upper end of the earnings forecast, but below the previous year, particularly owing to lower freight rates and higher operational costs.“2025 was a good year for Hapag-Lloyd with solid results. We have grown our volumes and outperformed the market. Our Gemini network delivered 90% schedule reliability and customer satisfaction reached another record high.
Cadeler Raises Over $200M to Fund Fleet Expansion Plans
Cadeler has raised approximately $203 million (€175 million) through a private placement to fund planned investments in new offshore wind installation vessels and potential asset acquisitions.The offshore wind contractor said the proceeds will support initial capital commitments for two proposed T-class wind foundation installation vessel newbuilds, as well as the potential acquisition and conversion of a scour protection vessel.According to Cadeler, the private placement was…
CMA CGM Partners with Neoline
CMA CGM is making Neoline's wind-powered vessel Neoliner Origin directly accessible to its customers.The company says this low-carbon solution will strengthen its service offering between France and North America.Customers will now be able to use direct round-trip connections from Montoir (France) to Baltimore (US) and Halifax (Canada).The Neoliner Origin’s innovative propulsion system offers an environmentally friendly solution, significantly reducing greenhouse gas emissions by up to 80%-90% during ocean crossings.The new service is designed to accommodate a variety of commodities…
Windcat Amsterdam Debuts as First Elevation CSOV in Europe
Shipbuilder Damen and Windcat, part of maritime group CMB.TECH, have launched the Windcat Amsterdam, marking the arrival of the first Elevation series commissioning service operation vessel (CSOV) in European waters.The vessel was developed jointly by the two companies and constructed at Damen’s Ha Long Shipyard in Vietnam. It is designed to support construction, commissioning and maintenance activities across offshore energy projects.Windcat Amsterdam can accommodate up to 120 personnel and will serve as a floating base for offshore operations…
Fincantieri Profit Surge Underpins Outlook, Strategy Shift
Italian shipbuilder Fincantieri reported a more than fourfold jump in its annual profit to 117 million euros ($136 million) on Wednesday, boosted by the underwater business line that saw 88% revenue growth.Shares of the Trieste-based company gained up to 7.5% shortly after the results.The state‑controlled shipbuilder reiterated its 2026 targets for revenue of 9.2 billion to 9.3 billion euros, a core profit (EBITDA) margin of around 7.5%, and an increased net profit."We are preparing to capture further growth in demand in the defense sector, by doubling the production capacity of Italian shipya
Dixstone Receives Third Offshore Support Vessel From Holland Shipyards Group
Holland Shipyards Group announced the successful delivery of Men Skey, the third and final Offshore Support Vessel (OSV) in a series of three built for Dixstone. Following the delivery of Men Cren and Men Goe earlier in 2025, this milestone marks the completion of the offshore newbuild program.With Men Cren already delivered as the first vessel in the series and both sister vessels currently operating successfully along the coast of West Africa, Men Skey will soon join them to further strengthen Dixstone’s offshore support activities in the region.The three shallow draft (max.
By the Numbers: FY2025 Dredging Stats Released
The Dredging Contractors of America (DCA) is pleased to report another strong year for the U.S. dredging industry in Fiscal Year 2025, with $1.8 billion in federal dredging awards executed entirely by the American-owned, American-crewed, American-built Jones Act dredging fleet.According to Michael Gerhardt’s U.S. Dredging Report, FY2025 marked a transition year. While the prior year featured major deepening and widening projects in ports such as Norfolk, Brazos Island, Sabine, and Mobile, FY2025 saw fewer large-scale channel expansions.
Hadrian Opens Alabama Facility to Support Submarine Production
Manufacturing company Hadrian has opened a new facility in Cherokee, Alabama dedicated to the U.S. Navy's Columbia- and Virginia-class submarine programs.Known as Factory 4, the Cherokee facility is an advanced, highly automated manufacturing plant that will mass-produce components needed for submarine construction, including parts, assemblies, and finished products.These products have been identified by the industry as the largest drivers of submarine schedules, so increasing…
International Launches Aluminum-Pigmented Primer Intergard 6788
AkzoNobel’s marine coatings brand, International, has launched Intergard 6788, a new aluminum-pigmented universal primer developed to meet the demands of the global newbuilding market. The launch in Asia will take place at the Asia Pacific Maritime conference in Singapore, with availability in China and Vietnam as key markets.Epoxy technology enables a higher solids content for the product, proactively meeting increasingly stringent global Volatile Organic Compound (VOC) regulations.
Ship Recycling Pauses for Eid
Eid al-Fitr has arrived to greet the world's ship recycling markets this week, and as is tradition, it came bearing the gift of silence, reports cash buyer GMS. “From Chattogram to Gadani, Alang to Aliağa, the holy festival has pressed pause on an industry that was already beginning to feel the compounding weight of war, currency volatility, and a stubborn absence of fresh tonnage offerings.”The ongoing conflict in the Middle East, which has now stretched into its third week following the U.S.-Israeli military campaign against Iran…
DCA’s Doyle Delivers Vigorous Jones Act Defense at Dredger Christening
In a maritime market increasingly defined by volatility, from war in the Middle East and the resulting whiplash freight and energy rates, William Doyle chose a moment of celebration in New Orleans to deliver a message grounded in something far less fashionable: stability.Speaking at the March 21 christening of Frederick Paup, a 15,000-cubic-meter trailing suction hopper dredge built for Manson Construction, the CEO of the Dredging Contractors of America used the occasion not simply to praise a record-setting vessel…