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Sunday, July 19, 2026

Shipbuilding News

17 Jul 2026

Cadeler Welcomes Wind Ace WTIV to its Fleet

(Credit: Credit)

Cadeler has taken delivery of Wind Ace, its 11th offshore wind turbine installation vessel (WTIV) and the second of three A-class newbuilds.Built over the past two years at the COSCO Shipping Offshore shipyard in Qidong, China, the vessel was delivered on schedule and within budget, according to Cadeler.Following mobilization, Wind Ace will prepare for deployment on ScottishPower Renewables' 960 MW East Anglia TWO offshore wind farm in the UK, where Cadeler will transport and…

10 Jul 2026

USCG RFP for Homeland Security Vessel Closes Soon

USCG Photo

The Coast Guard released a request for proposal (RFP) for design, production, testing and delivery of homeland security cutter-light (HSC-L) vessels. The Coast Guard plans to acquire seven HSC-Ls through an indefinite delivery/indefinite quantity contract.The RFP is available here. Proposals are due by July 14, 2026.The Coast Guard’s aging fleet of 65-foot light icebreaking tugs was commissioned into service between 1961-1967 and is well beyond its planned end of service life.

10 Jul 2026

76 Vessels, 30 Years: Fincantieri Delivers for Carnival Corp, Cuts Steel on New Ship

Image courtesy Fincantieri

Three decades after helping redefine the modern cruise industry together, Fincantieri and Carnival Corporation have launched the next chapter in their long-running partnership.At Fincantieri's Monfalcone shipyard, executives from both companies gathered to celebrate the 30th anniversary of their relationship while officially marking the first steel cut for Carnival Destiny, the first of three next-generation Ace-class cruise ships being built for Carnival Cruise Line. The vessels are scheduled for delivery in 2029, 2031 and 2033.The ceremony carried a sense of history.

10 Jul 2026

Berg Propulsion Secures Six-Vessel Equipment Order

(Credit: Supplied by Berg Propulsion)

Swedish marine propulsion technology company Berg Propulsion has secured a contract to supply propulsion packages for six 7,000-dwt multi-purpose dry cargo vessels being built by Jiangsu Dajin Heavy Industry in China for UK shipowner and operator Carisbrooke Shipping.The six vessels, designed by Dutch naval architecture firm Groot Ship Design, are scheduled for delivery between the third quarter of 2027 and the first quarter of 2029.Measuring 110 meters in length and 15.45 meters in breadth…

10 Jul 2026

ADNOC L&S Orders Four LNG Carriers, Takes Delivery of VLAC Newbuild

(Credit: ADNOC L&S)

ADNOC Logistics and Services (ADNOC L&S) has ordered four new liquefied natural gas (LNG) carriers from China’s Jiangnan Shipyard for about $900 million, expanding its LNG newbuild program to 18 vessels, while also taking delivery of the first of four very large ammonia carrier (VLAC) newbuilds.The four ships will each have a capacity of 175,000 cubic meters and are scheduled for delivery in 2029. They will be built at Jiangnan Shipyard in Shanghai.The agreement was signed during a visit to the shipyard by ADNOC Managing Director and Group CEO Sultan Ahmed Al Jaber.

10 Jul 2026

Fincantieri Partners with Croatian Shipyards for MRC Corvettes Program

(Credit: Fincantieri)

Italian shipbuilder Fincantieri has signed two memoranda of understanding with Croatian shipbuilding companies Brodotrogir Cruise and Iskra Shipyard in support of its participation in Croatia’s naval acquisition program for two Multi Role Corvettes.The agreements provide a framework for exploring cooperation in the design, engineering and construction of naval vessels in support of Fincantieri’s proposal for the MRC corvette program promoted by Croatia’s Ministry of Defense.The…

09 Jul 2026

Concordia Damen to Build Two River Cruise Vessels for TUI River Cruise

© Concordia Damen

Dutch shipyard Concordia Damen announced it has received a contract from TUI River Cruise for two CDS River Cruise 135 vessels. These cruisers are of in-house design and have been tailored to TUl's needs.TUI River Cruises' fleet is currently expanding from six to 10 ships, which will operate across Europe, the Rhine, Nile and the Douro. The two river cruisers that Concordia is constructing are designed for the UK market.These two newbuilds are constructed with methanol as a future fuel in mind. Each ship will contain 94 cabins for 188 guest capacity. Delivery is expected in 2028.

09 Jul 2026

In the Heat of the Summer, Cool Carriers Receives Snow Flake

Image courtesy Cool Carriers

Cool Carriers has taken another step in its fleet renewal strategy with the delivery of MV Snow Flake, the second vessel in its next-generation Snow-class series, reinforcing the company's position as the world's largest operator of specialized refrigerated cargo vessels.The vessel was officially named June 29 at Kitanihon Shipbuilding in Japan, just three months after the delivery of sister ship Snow Flower. The ceremony was attended by Cool Carriers CEO Mikhail Ganyushin, while Nikolay Pavlyuchenko…

09 Jul 2026

Methanol-Ready Arctic Tern PCTC Joins Wallenius Wilhelmsen Fleet

(Credit: Wallenius Wilhelmsen)

Roll-on/Roll-off (RoRo) shipping and vehicle logistics group Wallenius Wilhelmsen has taken delivery of Arctic Tern, the first dual-fuel methanol-ready vessel in its new Shaper Class series.Arctic Tern vessel offers greater cargo capacity and improved operational efficiency and will be deployed through EUKOR Car Carriers, the shipping line jointly owned by Hyundai Motor Group and Wallenius Wilhelmsen.Following delivery, the vessel will enter service between Asia and Europe almost…

08 Jul 2026

AIDAmar Cruise Ship Docks at Damen Shiprepair for Bottom Survey

© Damen Shiprepair

AIDA Cruises’ vessel AIDAmar docked at Damen Shiprepair Rotterdam’s Botlek location for her annual bottom survey while carrying around 2,000 passengers on board.The vessel departed the German port of Warnemünde on July 3, for a five-night voyage, and entered the yard’s drydock number 6 on July 5. Once she was in position, the drydock was emptied, allowing yard personnel to carry out the inspection.During the inspection, visitors were welcomed to an exhibition detailing the history of Damen Shiprepair Rotterdam and historic projects…

08 Jul 2026

NYK Names Eighth Dual-Fuel LPG Carrier

(Credit: NYK)

NYK has named newly built very large gas carrier (VLGC) Lyla Pathfinder, its eighth dual-fuel LPG carrier using liquefied petroleum gas as fuel.The naming ceremony took place on July 7 at Kawasaki Heavy Industries' Sakaide Works.Upon completion, the vessel will be chartered by UAE-based BGN for the global transportation of LPG.Lyla Pathfinder is equipped with a dual-fuel engine capable of operating on heavy fuel oil and LPG. It uses rotational energy from the shaft connecting the main engine to the propeller for power generation…

08 Jul 2026

OMS Group Cuts First Steel for its Third Cable Laying Vessel

(Credit: OMS Group)

OMS Group has started construction of CS Resilience, the third vessel in its next-generation GREAT-Class fleet, with a first steel cutting ceremony held at CRIST's shipyard in Gdynia, Poland.The milestone marks the start of construction of the cable-laying vessel, which is scheduled to enter service in 2028 and forms part of OMS Group's long-term fleet expansion program.CS Resilience is one of two next-generation cable-laying vessels being built under OMS Group's partnership with Ulstein, announced in January 2026.

08 Jul 2026

UK and Netherlands Forge $3.2B Maritime Partnership

© Wojciech Wrzesień / Adobe Stock

Britain and the Netherlands have signed a maritime partnership setting the path for new amphibious transport ships for their forces under a $3.2 billion (£2.4 billion) deal, with the vessels set to be built in UK shipyards alongside Dutch industry.The ships will be based on a Dutch design and form the backbone of a strengthened UK-Netherlands amphibious force, with each country operating four vessels.The 160-metre, 15,000-tonne ships will transport troops, vehicles and equipment, including drones.

07 Jul 2026

Seaspan Welcomes TKMS as Build Partner for Canadian Submarine Program

© Seaspan Shipyards

Seaspan Shipyards welcomed the Government of Canada’s announcement of ThyssenKrupp Marine Systems (TKMS) as the strategic build partner for the Canadian Patrol Submarine Project (CPSP). The project aligns with Canada’s Defence Industrial Strategy (DIS) and falls under the Build-Partner-Buy framework. In support of Canada’s DIS and partner strategy, Seaspan and TKMS signed a teaming agreement in support of CPSP in January. Through the 212CD program with TKMS, Germany and Norway…

07 Jul 2026

FMD Completes Rolls-Royce Acquisition, Establishes Canadian HQ

Fairbanks Morse Defense (FMD), a portfolio company of Arcline Investment Management, finalized its acquisition of the Rolls-Royce Naval Handling facility in Peterborough, Ontario. The closing officially establishes the facility as FMD’s Canadian headquarters, expanding the services division and supporting the revitalization of the Canadian defence industrial base. “For nearly a century, Fairbanks Morse has been a proud partner of the Royal Canadian Navy and Canadian Coast Guard. As Canada reinvests in its naval power and domestic manufacturing, FMD is positioned to localize a robust portfolio of trusted, mission-critical maritime solutions,” said George Whittier, FMD CEO. “Securing the Peterborough naval handling facility solidifies our commitment to manufacturing in Canada.

07 Jul 2026

CY Frontier: First of Four Heavy Transport Vessels

© BigLift Shipping

CY Shipping and BigLift Shipping christened CY Frontier, the first of four BC-Class Heavy Transport Vessels (HTVs). The vessel was christened by Jenny Jung, who served as its godmother. Representatives of CY Shipping, BigLift Shipping and Jing Jiang Nanyang Shipbuilding Co., Ltd. attended the ceremony.Developed jointly by CY Shipping and BigLift Shipping, the BC-Class has been designed to meet the growing demand for the transportation of increasingly large offshore, energy and industrial modules.

07 Jul 2026

Global Shipbuilding Boom Fuels Growth for German Marine Equipment Sector

Copyright 13threephotography/AdobeStock

A record wave of global investment in new ships is translating into sustained growth for Germany's marine equipment industry, with suppliers reporting rising revenues, strong order books and growing optimism despite mounting geopolitical and competitive pressures.According to the latest industry survey from VDMA, Germany's maritime supplier sector posted average revenue growth of 5.2% in 2025, marking its fourth consecutive year of expansion. The results underscore how a historic global shipbuilding cycle—driven by fleet renewal…

06 Jul 2026

Moose Boats Delivers for SFFD

Image courtesy Moose Boats

Moose Boats delivered an M1-46 fire rescue catamaran vessel to the San Francisco Fire Department’s Airport Division, which is responsible for providing fire protection, fire prevention, code enforcement, emergency medical services, water rescue operations and hazardous materials abatement for the San Francisco International Airport.This will be the second M1 that the San Francisco International Airport will have available for emergency calls in the waters surrounding the runways.

06 Jul 2026

Bernhard Schulte Takes Delivery of Final CSOV in New Fleet Series

Windea Clarke CSOV (Credit: Ulstein Group)

Bernhard Schulte Offshore (BSO) has taken delivery of Windea Clarke, the fourth and final commissioning service operation vessel (CSOV) in its latest newbuild series, with the vessel set to enter a seasonal charter on a UK North Sea offshore wind project.The vessel was christened on June 30 at Ulstein Verft in Norway and completes a series of four new CSOVs integrated into BSO’s offshore fleet since mid-2025.With the latest delivery, BSO’s offshore fleet comprises seven vessels.Like its sister vessels…

06 Jul 2026

South Korea’s Largest Cable Layer Starts Taking Shape in Türkiye

(Credit:  LS Cable & System via LinkedIn)

LS Marine Solution, a subsidiary of LS Cable & System, has started construction of a next-generation cable laying vessel (CLV) designed for long-distance high-voltage direct current (HVDC) and large-scale offshore wind grid projects.A steel-cutting ceremony for the new CLV was held at Tersan Shipyard in Türkiye, with delivery scheduled for the first half of 2028.The vessel will have a cable loading capacity of 13,000 tons and is set to become South Korea’s largest cable layer.Its capacity will allow long-distance cables to be installed in a single voyage…

06 Jul 2026

Boskalis Christens 'World’s Largest' Subsea Rock Installation Vessel

(Credit: Boskalis via LinkedIn)

Dutch marine services firm Boskalis has christened the Windpiper, which it describes as the world’s largest subsea rock installation (SRI) vessel, following an 18-month conversion project.The 227-meter-long and 40-meter-wide vessel was officially christened on July 3 by Ms. Jones-Bos, a member of the Boskalis Supervisory Board, Boskalis said.The Windpiper has a rock cargo capacity of 45,500 tons across two holds and will double Boskalis’ rock installation capacity.The large cargo…

06 Jul 2026

Energy-Efficiency Measures First says DNV Maritime CEO

Cristina Saenz de Santa Maria, CEO Maritime, DNV.
Image courtesy DNV

In an age of regulatory shift, geopolitical uncertainty and commercial pressure it can be difficult to keep decarbonisation efforts on track. How can you plan for tomorrow when today’s realities are so demanding? With the theme of Nor-Shipping 2027 front of mind, Cristina Saenz de Santa Maria, CEO Maritime at DNV, believes the NEXT thing shipping companies should address is also the most obvious. While a wide range of new fuels and technologies will ultimately drive shipping towards its ambitious goal of achieving net-zero by 2050…

02 Jul 2026

SAAM Towage to Build Four Tugboats

© SAAM Towage

SAAM Towage signed a contract with the Belov shipyard for the construction of four new tugboats. This project is part of the company's strategy for the ongoing updating of its fleet and reinforces its growth in that market, where it operates in 19 ports with more than 65 ships.The new vessels will be azimuth tugs with a bollard pull of 70 metric tons. They are equipped with a FiFi 1 fire suppression system and were designed by Robert Allan, an international naval architecture firm.

02 Jul 2026

Alternative-Fuel Vessel Orders Slow Down in First Half of 2026, DNV Finds

(Credit: DNV)

Orders for alternative-fueled vessels totaled 137 in the first half of 2026, down from 155 in the same period a year earlier, according to figures from DNV's Alternative Fuels Insight (AFI) platform.DNV’s AFI has recorded 15 new orders for alternative-fueled vessels in June 2026.This consisted of 10 orders for LNG-fueled vessels, nine of which were car carriers and one a CO2 carrier. The remaining five orders were for LPG/ethane carriers.Two LNG-bunker vessels were also ordered in June…

02 Jul 2026

Sydney Expands Ferry Fleet with Two Newbuilds

(Credit: Incat Crowther)

Sydney has completed the rollout of its new Parramatta River Class ferry fleet, with the delivery of the final two vessels enabling the addition of 136 weekly services on the city's Parramatta River route.The final vessels, Norman Selfe and Jack Mundey, were designed by Incat Crowther and built by Richardson Devine Marine in Tasmania for Transport for New South Wales. The seven-vessel fleet carries up to 200 passengers per vessel and primarily serves the route between Parramatta and Circular Quay.According to Transport for NSW…

02 Jul 2026

DEME Expands Fleet with Next-Gen Hopper Dredger Order

(Credit: DEME)

Belgian marine contractor DEME has ordered a next-generation trailing suction hopper dredger (TSHD) as part of a fleet expansion aimed at improving efficiency in dredging, land reclamation and offshore seabed preparation.The new vessel will have a hopper capacity of 22,000 cubic meters and is designed to reduce greenhouse gas intensity and lower dredging costs compared with existing vessels in the same segment, the company said.The dredger will feature an advanced propulsion system, a hydrodynamically optimized hull, improved dredging technology and a high level of automation.

01 Jul 2026

WinGD Books Engine Order for 12 Dynacom's VLCC Newbuilds

WinGD 6X82 low-speed engine (Credit: WinGD)

Swiss marine engine designer WinGD has secured an order to supply main engines for 12 very large crude carriers (VLCCs) being built at China's Hudong-Zhonghua Shipbuilding for Greek tanker owner Dynacom.Each vessel will be fitted with a WinGD 6X82-2.0 low-speed engine, alongside exhaust gas scrubbers and high-pressure selective catalytic reduction (SCR) systems to meet current International Maritime Organization emissions requirements.The order comes as tanker owners continue to invest in modern…

01 Jul 2026

Offshore Rocket Recovery Vessel Studied

Image of offshore recovery vessel.
Image courtesy NYK

NYK and Graduate School of Engineering The University of Osaka Launch Joint R&D Initiative on Offshore Recovery Systems for Reusable RocketsNYK and the University of Osaka launched a collaboration on July 1, 2026, to advance an offshore recovery system for reusable rockets being developed by NYK under a Space Strategy Fund project of the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency. Through this collaboration, NYK and the University of Osaka will jointly advance research and development on offshore recovery vessels for reusable rockets and related systems.

01 Jul 2026

Walter Takes CEO Helm at MEYER WERFT

André Walter officially assumed the role of Chief Executive Officer on July 1, succeeding Bernd Eikens. Image courtesy Meyer Werft

A leadership transition is complete at German shipbuilder MEYER WERFT as André Walter officially assumed the role of Chief Executive Officer on July 1, succeeding Bernd Eikens, who retired after leading the company through its financial restructuring.Walter joins MEYER WERFT from Airbus, where he most recently served as CEO of Airbus Aerostructures GmbH and Airbus GmbH in Hamburg. An engineer by training, Walter has held a series of technical and executive leadership positions since joining Airbus in 2006…

30 Jun 2026

Albanian Shipbuilding Gets a Boost with Fincantieri MOU

Image courtesy Fincantieri

Fincantieri has taken another step in establishing a long-term shipbuilding presence in Albania, signing a memorandum of understanding (MoU) to develop the skilled workforce needed to support the modernization of the Pashaliman shipyard and the country's emerging naval industrial base.The agreement, signed with Albanian state-owned infrastructure company KAYO and the "Pavarësia" Vocational Institute in Vlorë, establishes training programs focused on shipbuilding and naval construction.

30 Jun 2026

ClassNK Introduces World's First Notation for Shipbuilding Carbon Footprints

© ID_Anuphon / Adobe Stock

Classification society ClassNK has introduced what it said is the world's first notation to indicate that greenhouse gas emissions generated during ship construction have been calculated and undergone third-party verification.The new notation, called ‘a-EA (CFP)’, has been added to ClassNK's Environmental Guidelines and is intended to help shipyards, shipowners and shipping companies demonstrate the environmental value of vessels and support disclosure of Scope 3 emissions.The…

29 Jun 2026

Vard Delivers Hybrid Cable Layer to Toyo Construction

(Credit: Vard)

Norwegian shipbuilder Vard has delivered a hybrid construction and cable laying vessel (CLV) to Japan's Toyo Construction, marking its first vessel delivery to the Japanese offshore wind market.The vessel was handed over at Vard Langsten in Norway on June 26. It is also the first vessel Toyo Construction has ordered from Vard.The CLV was outfitted, commissioned and delivered on time from Vard Langsten, while the hull was built at Vard Shipyards Romania-Tulcea.Spanning 151 meters long and 28 meters wide…

26 Jun 2026

Hy-line Cruise's CAT Ferry Construction Commences

© INCAT CROWTHER

Construction on a new 48m catamaran passenger ferry designed by Incat Crowther for Hy-Line Cruises is now underwayat Midship Marine in Louisiana. The vessel, when completed, will operate on Hy-Line Cruise’s critical tourism and commercial routes connecting Hyannis, Mass., with the islands of Martha's Vineyard and Nantucket.Capable of transporting up to 493 passengers across three passenger decks, the vessel is capable of reaching speeds in excess of 30 knots and has been designed…

26 Jun 2026

Mitsubishi Shipbuilding Receives Order for Ammonia Fuel Handling System

Image courtesy Mitsubishi Shipbuilding

Mitsubishi Shipbuilding Co., Ltd., a part of Mitsubishi Heavy Industries (MHI) Group, has received an order from Hitachi Zosen Marine Engine Co., Ltd. (HZME) for its MAmmoSS ammonia fuel handling system.[The Mitsubishi Ammonia Supply and Safety System (MAmmoSS) consists of an Ammonia Fuel Supply System (AFSS) and an Ammonia Gas Abatement System (AGAS), along with control equipment to integrate and regulate these systems.]HZME is a dual licensee of Everllence SE and WinGD, major licensors of marine engines.

25 Jun 2026

World First: The Electric Hydrofoil Pilot Boat

Image courtesy Artemis Technologies

Artemis Technologies launched what it says is the world’s first fully electric hydrofoil pilot boat, introducing a new zero-emission option for pilot transfer operations as ports worldwide look to decarbonize their vessel fleets.The new Artemis EF-12 Pilot has entered the water and is now undergoing sea trials ahead of customer deliveries expected over the coming months. Designed specifically for pilotage duties, the vessel combines the company's electric hydrofoil technology with a purpose-built pilot boat layout aimed at improving operational efficiency…

24 Jun 2026

Welcome to the U.S. Shipping Merry-Go-Round

Copyright Imago/AdobeStock

Taking your children or grandchildren for a ride on the Merry-Go Round may be a pleasant past memory. With that memory, we are asking to think about your choice of the best horse as you board the platform. A decision resting upon what you want out of the ride. Now consider that selection to the current state of US shipbuilding.Selecting the outside row of “jumpers” provides the greatest thrill as they move the fastest. When the Executive order for Maritime Dominance was issued on April 9, 2025, the U.S. maritime industry was ready to ride for the thrill of it.

24 Jun 2026

Suderman & Young Gets New Rapport 3000 Escort Tug

Image courtesy  Suderman & Young Towing Company/MBB

Master Boat Builders delivered Saturn for Suderman & Young Towing Company, the first vessel in a new series of Rapport 3000 escort tugs. Saturn is the first of four vessels in this series.Saturn continues to raise the bar in escort tug capability. Measuring 98 x 43 ft. with 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. Designed to accommodate a crew of six, the Saturn carries 44…

24 Jun 2026

Wintermar Takes Full Control of Fast Offshore Supply

(Credit: FOS)

Indonesian offshore vessel operator PT Wintermar Offshore Marine (WINS) has acquired the remaining stakes in Singapore-based Fast Offshore Supply (FOS) and its subsidiary PT Fast Offshore Indonesia (FOI), gaining full control of both companies and expanding into the building and operation of aluminium crew transfer vessels (CTVs).WINS acquired the remaining 52.5% shareholding in FOS and the remaining 49% stake in FOI, which it previously owned jointly with FOS.FOS won an international…

24 Jun 2026

By the Numbers: Maritime Safety in 2026 — Fewer Losses, Bigger Risks

Copyright Yellow Boat/AdobeStock

The maritime industry continues to improve its safety record, but the challenges confronting shipowners, operators, insurers and regulators have never been more complex.According to Allianz Commercial's Safety and Shipping Review 2026, global shipping losses remain near historic lows, yet a new era of geopolitical conflict, cyber-enabled crime, aging fleets, alternative fuels, cargo fires and supply chain disruption is reshaping risk across the maritime sector. Here is maritime safety and shipping in 2026 — by the numbers.90% -Approximately 90% of global trade still moves by sea…

24 Jun 2026

Samsung Heavy Orders LNG Carrier Tanks from GTT

(Credit: GTT)

GTT has secured an order from the shipyard Samsung Heavy Industries for the tank design of three new liquefied natural gas (LNG) carriers, on behalf of an American ship-owner.GTT will design the cryogenic tanks of the vessels, each offering a total capacity of 174,000 m3. The tanks will be fitted with the Mark III Flex membrane containment system, a technology developed by GTT.Delivery of the vessels is scheduled for the first and second quarters of 2029.

23 Jun 2026

BRIX Marine Delivers Custom Offshore Passenger Catamaran for FunToSee Island

© BRIX Marine

BRIX Marine has delivered It's About Time, a custom-built 4818-HTC Offshore passenger catamaran from the company's PaxCat lineup, built for FunToSee Island Ferry of Castries, St. Lucia. This marks the second vessel BRIX Marine has built for FunToSee Island, continuing a growing partnership between the two companies.FunToSee Island operates St. Lucia's premier airport water ferry service, connecting travelers arriving at Hewanorra Airport with resorts and accommodations across the island.Stretching 55 feet…

23 Jun 2026

Concordia Damen Delivers Century Star Cruise Ship, First for the European Market

© Concordia Damen

Dutch specialized shipbuilder Concordia Damen has delivered the Century Star to Century Cruises. The vessel is the first river cruise ship that the China-based cruise line has had built specifically for the European market and marks the start of a series of three sister ships. The Century Star will sail on the Danube from September 2026, with itineraries on the Rhine to follow at a later date.The vessel was built in collaboration with United Waterways, which assists Century Cruises in adapting to European operational standards, including regulations, safety management, crew and hospitality.

23 Jun 2026

Caterpillar’s C32B: Six Years on the River Proves the Point

Image courtesy Caterpillar

For inland towboat operators, engine selection is rarely about chasing the newest technology. Reliability, uptime, serviceability and lifecycle cost remain the metrics that matter most. Caterpillar Marine's new C32B engine is a 1,000-hp platform designed specifically with the demands of continuous-duty commercial operations in mind.While the C32B’ss origins can be traced to Caterpillar's pursuit of higher power density in the yacht and sportfishing markets, the end result may ultimately deliver its greatest value to towboat operators working the Mississippi River system.

23 Jun 2026

How the U.S. Coast Guard is Shaping the Future of Maritime Nuclear Power

In the novel, Verne, speaking through the Nautilus’ Commanding Officer – Captain Nemo writes, “There’s a powerful, obedient, swift, and effortless force that can be bent to any use and which reigns supreme aboard my vessel. It does everything. It lights me, it warms me, it’s the soul of my mechanical equipment. This force is electricity.”
Copyright Mario Breda/AdobeStock

Looking back at history one could argue that it was French author Jules Verne in his book “20,000 Leagues Under the Sea”, published in 1869, who was speculating about a new power source much in the same out of the box thinking that H.G. Wells employed when he wrote about inter-planetary flight in “War of the World’s. Verne was writing about “electricity” from batteries using seawater which he created after studying the model of the newly developed French Navy submarine “Plongeur” at the Exposition of 1867.In the novel…

23 Jun 2026

Washington State Ferries Builds a Hybrid Electric Future

Jumbo Mark II class ferry M/V Wenatchee, WSDOT photo by Jim Culp.
Image courtesy WSDOT

At the head of the U.S.’ largest ferry system is Steve Nevey, Deputy Secretary, Washington State Ferry (WSF), which is engaged in a historic modernization to a hybrid-electric fleet. Nevey gives a candid look inside problems during the Wenatchee conversion, with insights on the hybrid electric direction and pace for newbuilds at Eastern Shipbuilding.Steve Nevey did not stumble into maritime. He was raised in it, shaped by it, and by most accounts destined for it. Born in the UK, Nevey grew up in a naval household.

23 Jun 2026

The Jones Act Waiver of 2026: Implications for American Shipping, Energy, and National Security

Coyright Douglas/AdobeStock

On March 17, 2026, the U.S. Department of Homeland Security took the extraordinary step of issuing a sweeping waiver of the Jones Act at the request of the U.S. Department of Defense. The waiver, one of the broadest in the history of the nation’s cabotage laws, opened U.S. domestic waterways to foreign-flagged and foreign-built vessels carrying hundreds of energy and agricultural commodity types. To understand why this matters and why it remains deeply controversial, an understanding of the underlying law is necessary.The Jones Act, named for its sponsor Senator Wesley L.

23 Jun 2026

Petrobras Orders Four New Tankers in $427M Fleet Renewal Push

(Credit: Petrobras Transporte (Transpetro) via LinkedIn)

Brazil's state-controlled oil company Petrobras has signed a $427 million contract through its logistics subsidiary Petrobras Transporte (Transpetro) with the Rio Grande Shipyard for the construction of four medium range tankers as part of a broader program to renew and expand its shipping fleet.The four MR1-class vessels, each with a deadweight tonnage of 40,000 tonnes, will be used to transport crude oil and petroleum products along Brazil's coast, Petrobras said.The order forms part of the Mar Aberto (Open Sea) Program…

22 Jun 2026

Autonomous Vehicles Solve (and Create) Problems for Ports

Corsair, Saronic's 24-foot ASV, supports a wide range of applications including maritime domain awareness, port, harbor, and offshore facility security monitoring, logistics shuttle operations and environmental monitoring.
Image courtesy Saronic

Autonomous vehicles are increasingly sophisticated defensive tools for ports wanting to protect against maritime threats - including attacks from other autonomous vehicles.In December 15 last year, the Security Service of Ukraine reported that its underwater drone had struck a Russian submarine in Novorossiysk. The incident highlighted just how sophisticated potential threats have become. Harbor cameras were likely hacked, providing real-time visual evidence of the attack, with…

22 Jun 2026

Fortescue Charters Up to 12 Ammonia-Capable Bulkers from CMB.TECH

(Credit: CMB.TECH)

Australian mining company Fortescue has signed an agreement with Belgian shipping and cleantech group CMB.TECH to charter up to 12 ammonia-capable bulk carriers, stepping up efforts to decarbonize maritime transport and support the development of green ammonia as a marine fuel.Under the agreement, Fortescue will charter 12 Newcastlemax dry bulk vessels, each with a carrying capacity of 210,000 deadweight tonnes, from Bocimar, the dry bulk shipping arm of CMB.TECH.Up to three of the vessels will be delivered with dual-fuel ammonia engines and are expected to enter service by the end of 2026…

19 Jun 2026

BMT, Austal Sign Engineering Alliance to Support Shipbuilding Projects

(Credit: BMT)

Maritime engineering consultancy BMT and Australian shipbuilder Austal have signed a strategic agreement aimed at expanding ship design and engineering capacity while supporting the delivery of commercial and defense shipbuilding programs.The agreement establishes a framework that allows Austal to access specialist naval architecture and engineering resources as project requirements fluctuate, helping the company manage peak workloads and reduce schedule risks.Under the arrangement…

17 Jun 2026

NYK Vessels Chartered for Low-Carbon Ammonia Transport from Louisiana

Source: NYK

NYK Bulkship (Asia), a Singapore-based company of the NYK Group, has concluded a time-charter contract with JERA for two very large gas carriers (VLGCs).The two VLGCs are expected to transport low‑carbon ammonia produced in Louisiana to JERA’s Hekinan Thermal Power Station in Japan. At the power station, commercial operation of large-scale ammonia substitution combustion with 20% heat value ratio is scheduled to commence around fiscal year 2029.This project is expected to mark the first shipment of low‑carbon fuel ammonia for power generation to Japan.

17 Jun 2026

Furetank VINGA Series Tanker to be Named

Image courtesy Furetank

VINGA vessel naming ceremony and 40 years of design collaborationcutFOLDER-VINGA-serien-webb.pdf [Full background and tech spec - MR DEC 2026cutVinga VesselA newly built tanker in Furetank's VINGA series will be named at the Port of Uddevalla on 28 August. The vessel was designed by Furetank and FKAB Marine Design, the cumulative of 40 years of vessel design collaboration."We know operations and FKAB knows shipbuilding. Our collaboration has been a winning equation over the years — one plus one has equalled three.

16 Jun 2026

LH2 Shipping Orders Two More Liquid Hydrogen-Powered Bulk Carriers

StrandBulk by LH2 Shipping AS, Photo credit: LH2 Shipping AS.

LH2 Shipping has been awarded Enova support of NOK 344,3 million for the development and construction of two additional liquid hydrogen-powered bulk carriers.With the latest award, LH2 Shipping is now involved in the development of six hydrogen-powered bulk carrier projects. The announcement builds on previous Enova-supported vessel initiatives and reflects growing momentum for liquid hydrogen as a viable fuel alternative for short-sea shipping to meet decarbonizing policy goals.The…

16 Jun 2026

Lloyd Werft to Build 155-m ‘Beyond Horizons’ Vessel for Maybach Ocean Club

Credit: Doelker Voges Design

Germany’s Lloyd Werft Bremerhaven has been selected as the shipyard partner for Beyond Horizons, a 155-meter superyacht that aims to introduce a new private members’ club concept to the luxury maritime market.The announcement marks a key milestone for the Maybach Ocean Club project, moving the vessel from concept into the construction phase. The yacht has been developed by Maybach Ocean Club in collaboration with yacht specialists Splendid Sea and German naval architects Dölker + Voges.Unlike a conventional cruise ship or charter yacht…

15 Jun 2026

Shipowners Can Test Opportunities as Recycling Supply Tightens

Source: Wirana

Shipowners with older or harder-to-place vessels may have a stronger opportunity to test the recycling market over the coming months, as limited demolition supply continues to support recycler appetite despite weaker steel conditions in some key markets.Wirana Shipping’s latest market outlook indicates that supply is likely to remain tight in the near term, unless an Iran sanctions waiver forms part of a wider settlement to the Middle East conflict and releases additional tonnage into the market.Without that shift…

15 Jun 2026

ABS and MOBY Robotics Sign MoU on Subsea Mining Technologies

L to R: Alexander Petersen, Co-Founder and CEO of MOBY Robotics and Michael Kei, ABS Vice President, Technology (Source: ABS)

ABS and MOBY Robotics Inc. have signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) to advance technologies supporting subsea mining and offshore mineral transport.The MoU establishes a framework for ABS to support MOBY in the development, certification and eventual classification of autonomous robotic systems and other key technologies in accordance with ABS Requirements for Subsea Mining and ABS Offshore Rules. Areas of focus include subsea and surface robotics, vertical lifting systems…

15 Jun 2026

Sallaum Lines Orders Two 8,600-CEU Dual-Fuel PCTCs

Image courtesy Sallaum Lines

Sallaum Lines has placed an order for two next-generation 8,600-CEU Pure Car and Truck Carriers (PCTCs) at Xiamen Shipbuilding Industry Co., Ltd. (XSI), with options for two additional vessels, marking the largest shipbuilding investment in the company’s history and accelerating its fleet modernization strategy.The newbuilds, each with a capacity of 8,600 car equivalent units (CEU), will significantly expand the company’s finished vehicle logistics capabilities while supporting its long-term decarbonization goals.

14 Jun 2026

U.S. Coast Guard Accepts Delivery of 63rd Fast Response Cutter

Source: US Coast Guard

The U.S. Coast Guard has accepted delivery of the 63rd Fast Response Cutter (FRC), Jeffrey Palazzo (WPC 1163).Jeffrey Palazzo is the fifth FRC to be homeported in Guam, joining the recently commissioned Vincent Danz (WPC 1162).The Sentinel-class FRCs replaced the 1980s Island-class 110-foot patrol boats and possess 21st-century command, control, communications, computers, cyber, intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance equipment, with improved habitability and seakeeping.The U.S.

14 Jun 2026

Royal Caribbean Begins Construction on Seventh Oasis Class Vessel

Source: Royal Caribbean

Royal Caribbean has celebrated the keel-laying of its seventh Oasis Class vessel at the Chantiers de l'Atlantique shipyard in Saint-Nazaire, France. The soon-to-be-named ship will join the revolutionary Oasis Class lineup in 2028. The vessel follows Oasis of the Seas (2009), Allure of the Seas (2010), Harmony of the Seas (2016), Symphony of the Seas (2018), Wonder of the Seas (2022), and Utopia of the Seas (2024).

12 Jun 2026

HaiSea Marine Awards Contracts for Escort Vessel, Terminal Tugboats

© HaiSea Marine

HaiSea Marine is expanding its fleet on BC's North Coast and has placed orders for one new escort tugboat and two terminal tugboats.The contract to build an escort tug was awarded to Sanmar Shipyards, based in Türkiye. The escort vessel is a variant of the well-proven Robert Allan designed RAstar 4000 series of high-performance escort tugs, and features a similar design to the widely acclaimed HaiSea tugs of the same class currently deployed in Kitimat.HaiSea awarded Damen Shipyards Group the contract to build two ASD 2813 terminal tugboats.

12 Jun 2026

LNG-Fueled Cruise Vessel Mein Schiff Delivered

Image courtesy Fincantieri

Fincantieri delivered Mein Schiff Flow, the second of two next-generation InTUItion-class cruise ships built for TUI Cruises.Built at Fincantieri's Monfalcone, Italy, yard, the 160,000gt vessel can accommodate around 4,000 passengers. It follows sister ship Mein Schiff Relax as part of a new class developed by Fincantieri to combine advanced environmental performance with modern cruise operations.A key feature of Mein Schiff Flow is its dual-fuel propulsion capability, enabling operation on liquefied natural gas (LNG) as well as conventional marine gas oil (MGO).

12 Jun 2026

BRIN Taps Shipbuilder PIRIOU for Research Vessel Pair

© BRIN | PIRIOU

The “Badan Riset dan Inovasi Nasional” (BRIN), Indonesia’s national agency for research and innovation, has commissioned the French shipbuilder PIRIOU to design and build two research vessels:a multimission offshore hydro-oceanographic vessel (ORV – Ocean Going Research Vessel) and a coastal research vessel (CRV – Coastal Research Vessel).The order was signed on June 11, 2026 during a ceremony held in Indonesia, attended by representatives of BRIN, Stéphane BURGAUD, PIRIOU’s Commercial Director, and the project’s institutional partners.

11 Jun 2026

ClassNK CEO Hayato Suga Sees Class Evolving with AI

© fim.design / Adobe Stock

For ClassNK President and CEO Hayato Suga, the industry’s current moment is unlike anything he has seen in his career.Ask Suga to identify the single most consequential technical trend shaping future ship design and operations, and he answers without hesitation: AI.AI can improve risk prediction, enhance safety assessments, optimize environmental performance, streamline surveys, and fundamentally change how technical services are delivered.Internally, ClassNK is already using generic AI tools to improve workforce productivity and operational efficiency. But Suga’s ambitions go further.