THE SHIP SUPPLIER ISSUE 101

Contents The Ship Supplier Issue 101 2024

12 International Shipsuppliers & Services Association (ISSA) WEENA 505 3013AL Rotterdam The Netherlands Tel: +44-20-7626-6236 Email: secretariat@shipsupply.org Web: www.shipsupply.org

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36

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Publishing & Managing Editor Sean Moloney International Shipsuppliers & Services Association

Foreword

11

Regional Focus

12

Green ISSA

18

Medical & Safety

20

Navigation

22

Wingbury Courtyard Business Village Upper Wingbury Farm, Wingrave Aylesbury, Bucks, HP22 4LW United Kingdom Tel: +44 (0) 1296 682051 Fax: +44 (0) 1296 682156

Technology

25

ISSA 66 Seville

28

Publisher Sean Moloney

Biofouling

36

Debt Management

38

Food & Beverage

40

ISSA and Ship Supply News

45

OCEAN Report

50

Market News

53

Out & About

58

Play

59

After Hours

60

Published on behalf of The International Shipsuppliers & Services Association by

ISSA Head of Administration Yvonne Paul Editor Spencer Eade Advertising Sales Manager Julian Berry Accounts Lorraine Kimble Production & Design Diptesh Chohan The Ship Supplier is published by the International Shipsuppliers & Services Association and is entirely devoted to reporting on the dynamic and diverse Ship Supplying industry.

The worldwide readership includes all members and associate members of ISSA, chief purchasing officers, other senior personnel with purchasing responsibility and most marine and trade related organisations.

Issue 101 2024 | The Ship Supplier | 9

Foreword Dear ISSA Members and Maritime Colleagues

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You can keep up to date with the latest news on the ISSA website at www.shipsupply.org and send in your comments and views to the ISSA Secretariat either by phone on +44 (0)20 7626 6236; Fax +44 (0)20 7626 6234 or alternatively email secretariat@shipsupply.org

s our summer issue of The Ship Supplier goes to press, we find ourselves only four months away from our exciting ISSA 66 Convention in the beautiful Spanish City of Seville - and work is progressing at an intense pace to ensure it meets the high standards we are planning for.

The chosen venue is perfect and it will prove to be the excellent backdrop to the industry-leading headline conference, ISSA 66 exhibition, headline Gala Dinner and the piece de resistance the ISSA ‘Meet the Customer (MTC)’.

Over 20 of our buyer customer companies have agreed to participate in MTC and you can read their profiles in this issue of the magazine.

The ISSA Executive Board recently held its Spring board meeting in Seville and used the trip as an opportunity to meet the hotel management and conference organisers to discuss plans for ISSA 66.

Interest is growing significantly with many companies agreeing to take centre stage at ISSA 66 in Seville as sponsors and our sincere thanks go out to them all.

You can see, and follow, all of our sponsors by clicking the ISSA Seville66 tab on the homepage of the ISSA website (www. shipsupply.org/seville-66).

I will also remind you all that you should now be thinking about booking your seats at Convention. ISSA 66 will be the largest collection of ship suppliers and buyers assembled for many years and the networking will be of the highest quality. So don’t delay booking your seat, again by visiting www.shipsupply.org/seville-66.

I must also thank all my colleagues at OCEAN, ISSA’s European arm, for inviting me to attend their recent meeting in Antwerp. It was a pleasure to meet everyone in my capacity as ISSA President and I am very proud of the hard work they and the OCEAN Secretariat do.

Happy reading u Rafael Fernandez ISSA President

Issue 101 2024 | The Ship Supplier | 11

Regional Focus

UAE UAE identifies challenges for ship supply locally

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arlier this year the UAE National Ship Suppliers Association (UNSSA) staged their Annual General Meeting.

This proved to be a catalyst in identifying some problems for the local ship supply industry – problems which are to be found elsewhere in the world.

Chief amongst these problems/challenges are the difficulties facing ship suppliers locally in supplying flammable materials to customer vessels within port areas.

The newly elected UNSSA President – Mr Saeed al Malik – was able to bring some comfort to members when he confirmed he and colleagues were working on this tricky subject with Dubai Civil Defence.

Mr Saeed al Malik – newly elected UNSSA President

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The suggestion of a way to overcome this logistical difficulty is to deliver the flammable items inside the vehicle where they will be stored within a separate flame-proof metal cage.

Next on the busy Agenda was a report on the difficulty of supplying rice in Ras Al Khaimah Port.

Mr al Malik confirmed that UNSSA would check this out with RAK Port authorities and report back to Members.

Mr Jason Georgiou – newly re-elected to the position of Vice-President of UNSSA – suggested to the AGM attendees that more work be undertaken to encourage the younger generation to enter the ship supply industry.

Regional Focus

Mr al Malik requested Mr Georgiou to make a plan on how to achieve this and – if developed at pace – such plan could be implemented during 2024.

A clarion call by President al Malik to all UNSSA Members urged them to attend the forthcoming 66th ISSA Convention and Trade Exhibition being held in Seville, Spain on the 26th and 27th October.

Mr al Malik extolled the benefits to be gained from attending the Convention including highlighting the “Meet The Customer” sessions which proved so popular last year.

His request was for all members to attend this year’s Convention.

A significant feature of the AGM was the acceptance of Mr al Malik’s invitation by AKA Management Consultancy LLC – a leading VAT consultancy company based the United

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Arab Emirates to attend and deliver a very informative presentation regarding “UAE Tax Scheme 2024”.

This was very well received by Members and the consensus was it would prove most helpful in day-to-day operations.

The following Association Elections were agreed: • Mr Saeed al Malik – President • Mr Jason Georgiou – Vice-President • Mr Mark Pontiff – Secretary • Mr Danish Ahmed – Treasurer Contact information following these appointments has been updated on the UNSSA Section of the ISSA Register: https://shipsupply.org/national_association/united-arabemirates-national-ship-suppliers-association/ u

Regional Focus

INDIA

Editorial credit: NiAk Stock / Shutterstock.com

Indian Ship Supply: three points to ponder

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ndia with a coastline of 7,500 kilometres, has 12 major ports, and over 200 minor/intermediate ports.

Maritime transport contributes to 95% of India’s trade by volume and 68 per cent by value.

Cargo traffic across all major Indian ports has increased from 69.43 million tonnes (MT) to 72.04 MT with a 3.75 percent year-on-year making the Indian shipping industry poised for steady growth.

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For Ship Suppliers, this means more opportunities.

However, being at the bottom of the maritime ecosystem, with the increasing demand from vessel owners/managers of ‘More for Less, Better, and Sustainable’ there is a pressing need to progress on (a) sourcing, (b) agility and (c) innovation.

In terms of: (a) Sourcing - the right products at the right price need to be sourced on a global basis. (b) Agility - operations and resources need to be efficiently managed with a lean staff (c) Innovation - data needs to be correctly structured with proper application of Artificial Intelligence to analyse the data, identify patterns, and make data-driven decisions.

Going forward, it is collaboration and not competition, which needs to be the new norm with the proper use of AI and ML to meet the challenges facing ship suppliers.

Regional Focus As an example, if suppliers across the globe can collaborate in sharing non-confidential data such as the quantity and type of items supplied for a particular vessel, the vessel after receiving its supplies at one port, can be provided with an estimate of its requirements by a supplier from the next port of call even before or without an RFQ, giving the supplier ample time to prepare for the order.

In a progressive move, Admiral Marine Services, India is embarking on an ambitious project to understand and define the needs of clients, identify the data points, structure the organisation to be insights-driven based on data, and integrate advanced artificial intelligence (AI) technologies into their operations.

This initiative aims to enhance efficiency, predictability, and delight our clients by leveraging AI-driven solutions across our maritime operations.

ISSA Executive Vice-President Mr Abdul Hameed Hajah comments: Whilst inter-industry co-operation and individual firms’ commitment to adopting the latest technology will no doubt be significant to the country’s competitiveness as a port of choice, there are other systemic issues that have proven to be hurdles to the ambitions of the local ship suppliers.

As expressed by Indian President Droupadi Murmu at the 8th Convocation of the Indian Maritime University (IMU) in 2023, addressing infrastructural and operational challenges of the country’s port are of utmost importance for it to exploit fully the potential of the Indian maritime sector.

She cites the example of container ship cargo, which have often been diverted to other ports in the region due to depth restrictions at Indian Ports.

There is however, plenty of reason to be optimistic as the Indian Government is in the process of implementing the Sagarmala Programme, which aims to promote port-led development in the country.

The key objective is to unlock the potential of the vast coastline and waterways surrounding the country, with minimal investment to attain these targets.

The Maritime India Vision 2030 (MIV 2030) was developed as a blueprint to help bring this vision to life and catalyse the Indian maritime sector.

It identifies over 150 initiatives to boost both performance and productivity across the entire Indian maritime ecosystem.

With these pragmatic plans, the country is well on its way to developing the maritime sector not only as a key engine for domestic growth but also as a global shipping hub of the future.

It would be nothing less than a fitting tribute to the nation’s rich maritime heritage. u

Green ISSA Kotug International selects EST-Floattech for the containerised battery system for world’s first fully electric pusherboat E-Pusher 1 under way

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ST-Floattech has announced that KOTUG International B.V. (“KOTUG”), has chosen EST-Floattech’s containerized energy storage solution with Octopus Series for the E-Pusher 1 (Type M).

On board the world’s first fully electric pusher boat is a container with the battery system of EST-Floattech, supporting the vessel’s every energy need.

The E-pusher Type M is an innovative, emission-free pusher that transports cargo on the inland waterways. This design revolutionises the way energy is stored and distributed in the maritime industry.

The E-Pusher 1 transports cocoa beans for Cargill from the Port of Amsterdam to Zaandam. u www.est-floattech.com

Groke reports “encouraging performance” from their first Windwings ship

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roke Technologies has welcomed the energy saving performance of the world’s first vessel fitted with BAR Technologies’ wind propulsion system WindWings®, which charterer Cargill said has achieved equivalent fuel savings of 3t per day.

Cargill Ocean Transportation, said the performance of the two 37.5m WindWings fitted to MC Shipping’s bulker Pyxis Ocean “is encouraging”.

Juha Rokka, CEO of Groke Technologies, the Finnish company which supplied situational awareness cameras to the vessel, said: “Due to the size of these next generation wind sails, line of sight from the bridge may be affected.

Vessels with wind assisted propulsion do need new solutions to ensure they remain SOLAS compliant.”

Groke Technologies’ advanced camera and sensor solutions, approved by classification society DNV, were selected to provide watchkeeping visibility and enhance vessel safety. u Pyxis Ocean – A Bridge with a view www.groke-tech.com 18 | The Ship Supplier | Issue 101 2024

Medical & Safety New distress beacon launched

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new distress beacon from Wescom Group has been launched as the first of a new series now available worldwide.

The sMRT ALERT AIS DSC Man Overboard device offers enhanced localised recovery with simplified fitting, faster activation and wearer acknowledgments.

It is the first in a series of new beacons produced at Wescom Group’s newly-opened manufacturing facility in Hull, UK. The device’s innovative features include two-way signalling, real-time location tracking via AIS (Automatic Identification System) and uses DSC (Digital Selective Calling) to alert nearby vessels to the call for help.

The sMRT ALERT is also one of the first products on the market designed to meet the new Class M regulation ECC Decision (22)02, which will restrict AIS only MOB devices use of core AIS channels in certain countries from January 2025. Only class M devices such as the ALERT – those with GNSS and internal DSC receiver - will be compliant with the new regulations.

The sMRT ALERT also includes a beacon management app to connect the beacon to a smart phone, enabling users to check on activation status and the power reserves in the five-year battery.

Wescom Group CEO Ross Wilkinson said: “The Wescom product range is synonymous with high quality and reliability, and we are taking this dedication to marine safety into our newly launched electronics division.

“It’s fantastic to see the first of our new distress beacons leave the factory and we look forward to introducing the full range in the coming months.”

The sMRT ALERT costs from £270 RRP and is now available worldwide* through Wescom Group’s network of international distributors. Approvals are pending in the USA. u

The sMRT ALERT

New Emergency Rations Gain Global Approvals

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escom Group’s emergency rations have now received global approvals from Lloyds Register, providing worldwide endorsement that these new products meet the stringent quality requirements for survival provisions.

The new products are the culmination of internal investment expanding Wescom Group’s European production facilities in Bremerhaven, Germany. This enables large scale, highly automated production, under detailed European food quality standards and the updated 2022 ISO regulations for emergency rations.

Wescom Group CEO Ross Wilkinson said: “Our investment in a state-of-the-art production

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factory in Germany, together with our comprehensive range of highquality survival products from globally recognised brands, gives our distributors and suppliers unprecedented reach for the supply and support of life raft survival solutions to its customers worldwide.”

The new Comet and Pains Wessex branded emergency rations range include: • Emergency Drinking Water manufactured to German hygiene control standards and packed in nitrogen-rich air and watertight alufoil. With a five-year shelf life, it is globally approved to meet ISO standard 18813:2022 and directive (EU) 2020/2184.

• Emergency Rations Survival Pack developed to minimise size and conform to the latest ISO18813:2022 standards, the rations have a five-year shelf life, are vegan, use sustainable palm oil and are free of GMO. u www.wescom-group.com

Navigation ChartWorld launches Radar-As-A-Service

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Navigation

Raymarine’s Pathfinder Radar System available on subscription

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hartWorld has launched a ‘Radar as a service’ model, providing Raymarine’s Pathfinder™ Solid State IMO X-Band radar system on a subscription basis.

Pathfinder is an awardwinning solid-state radar technology designed for CAT 2 and CAT 3 SOLAS vessels.

This business model optimises a shipping company’s operations by reducing the burden of maintaining and updating essential navigation equipment.

ChartWorld CEO, Steven Schootbrugge, said, “We know ChartWorld’s ‘navigation as a service’ model works in shipping – ECDIS-as-a-Service disrupted the market and delivered upto-date navigational hardware, charts, and other essential data and navigation systems to ships.

“Our clients have told us that this model will also work with radar systems and supporting software.

“For owners and managers, this will result in lower costs and better, newer, systems onboard.

“This model will allow us to offer clients a life-time warranty for the Pathfinder Solid State Radar, remote maintenance, status monitoring, service direct to device, software upgrades,

as well as including hardware upgrades, connectivity costs, archiving Radar-Logs onshore, and all spare parts.”

The Pathfinder™ radar system delivers exceptional resolution and detection capabilities even in the most challenging of maritime conditions. Compliant with the International Maritime Organisation (IMO) standards IEC 62288 and IEC 62388, this radar stands out for its reduced maintenance, enhanced longevity, and ease of operation.

Pathfinder offers crews superior target separation and increased long-range resolution using pulse compression and beam sharpening technology.

The solid-state transmitter provides performance exceeding a 12kW magnetron, and the system meets and exceeds all IMO performance requirements for target detection.

The Pathfinder™ is designed to be quickly retrofitted in place of existing systems and the Pathfinder™ radar features a market leading user interface for simplicity of operation greatly reducing the learning curve for the crew. u www.chartworld.com

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Technology Predicting the Unpredictable: Leveraging AI to Forecast Tramp Emissions

By Kristofer Maanum, Senior Product Manager, Bearing AI

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t’s no secret that maritime shipping is one of the world’s largest emitters of CO2. Thankfully, the industry is taking steps to reduce its carbon footprint.

Initiatives like the Carbon Intensity Indicator (CII) from the International Maritime Organisation (IMO) and the European Union Emissions Trading System (EU ETS) are pushing shipping companies to restructure their operations in an effort to reach net zero emissions by 2030.

Shipping companies are using cleaner fuels and reducing speed to minimize emissions. They’re optimising their service routes to help ensure each vessel in their fleet meets EOY carbon targets.

And, increasingly, they’re using AI to make their operations more efficient.

AI can sift vast amounts of data to find patterns no human would ever detect. Algorithms trained on millions of vessels can predict and optimise fuel usage, emissions, and even the impact of seaway variables like weather and biofouling on any voyage.

But some forms of shipping push even AI to its limits.

FILLING IN THE GAPS Tramp shipping companies pose a unique challenge for artificial intelligence. Unlike their liner counterparts, tramp operators face uncertainty about future routes and operational profiles of their

Leveraging AI to Forecast Tramp Emissions – under way

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Technology

vessels, which in turn complicates efforts to reduce emissions and comply with environmental regulations.

Artificial intelligence—while capable of immense calculations and forecasts more accurate than any human could produce—has historically struggled with tramp shipping. Regular, consistent schedules like those of liner companies lend themselves well to AI’s analytical capabilities. However, the inherent unpredictability of tramp operations presents a more difficult problem for databacked decision-making.

Bearing AI is working to bring tramp shipping companies up to speed with the rest of the shipping industry, crafting powerful AI models trained specifically for the tramp industry’s volatile schedules.

The secret is data. Vast amounts of data.

A NEW TOOL FOR TRAMP Bearing’s Deployment Planner for tramp leverages AI models trained on millions of voyages and is tuned specifically to the volatility of tramp operations to fill in the unknown gaps of tramp vessel schedules and provides data-driven EOY emissions forecasts.

The Deployment Planner for tramp offers quick insights into the environmental impact of an upcoming contract(s).

It also allows users to experiment with different vessel deployments to determine the best fit for a specific contract from an environmental standpoint.

Tramp companies can now see the forecasted impact of an individual contract (or multiple contracts) on a vessel’s EOY CII rating — allowing vessel operators to factor in the exact

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emissions impact of a contract in their negotiations. This enables them to manage fleet efficiency, mitigate compliance risks and reduce operational costs.

“Tramp shipping companies face a distinctly different set of operational challenges compared to their liner counterparts,” Aleksandar-Saša Milaković, Product Manager & Naval Architecture Lead at Bearing AI said.

“Our new Deployment Planner is designed to provide precise, real-time insights for tramp operators, ensuring they can make informed decisions that maximise both efficiency and sustainability, regardless of the variability in their contracts. In practice, the tool allows operators to input the contracts they expect until the EOY, while Bearing AI will fill in the gaps and forecast the expected EOY CII rating, at the same time allowing the operator the flexibility to test how potential changes in planning might affect the EOY CII outcome.”

Bearing AI’s forecasts go one step further. The Deployment Planner predicts the EOY performance for every vessel in a tramp fleet, whether or not they have contracts scheduled, by creating a performance forecast for uncontracted time periods.

These predictions provide insights into vessel emissions and help tramp operators achieve superior emissions performance despite their constantly shifting schedules.

The Deployment Planner demonstrates the power of AI for tramp shipping companies striving to enhance their environmental performance. u https://bearing.ai/

ISSA 66 Seville

‘Meet the Customer’: A compelling reason why ISSA 66 will be one of the best Conventions ever

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magine a situation where you are able to sit down with your existing and future clients and discuss, in detail, what you can provide for them as one of the ship supply sector’s best ship suppliers.

Well, it is not a dream but is reality because in Seville (Spain) in October, the ISSA 66 Convention will bring together between 20 and 25 of the industry’s most important buyers, assemble them in one room, and invite ISSA members to sit down with them to discuss future business opportunities.

The ‘Meet the Customer’ sessions will take place during the afternoons of October 26th and 27th.

Once you have booked your slot, you will be able to spend 10 minutes with your chosen buyers. You will be able to swap cards and brochure material and discuss how you can both work effectively together. You do need to be a paid-up delegate to take part, but what an opportunity that will be.

ISSA 66 Sponsors

Platinum Sponsor

Faisal M. Higgi & Associates Co Ltd

AVS Global Ship Supply

Gold Sponsor

Middle East Fuji LLC

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King of Reach

NeKo Ship Supply B.V

Carne Felix SA

ISSA 66 Seville

MTC attendees list: Arcadia Shipmanagement Co Ltd, Arklow Shipping, BS Ship Management, Ciner Ship Management, Dámico Shipping Group, Densay Ship Management, Eolos Ship Management, Gen-Pro, Globus Maritime, Grehel Shipmanagement Co, Interorient Marine Services, Intership Navigation, Lomar Shipping Limited, Marcas International Limited, Newport SA, Oceanic Services, Oldendorff Carriers Gmbh & Co, Olympic Shipping & Management S.A, Onn Denizcilik , OSM Thome, Safety Management Overseas, Sea Steward Limited, Torm A/S, T Soechi Lines TBK.

Silver Sponsor

Ocean Rich

EAP Marine Limited

WEICON

Antares Shipping Agencies Co

Uni Marine Group

Adamallys LLC

DFS

Electro Cirkel Marine & Industry BV

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ISSA 66 Seville

Have you booked your ticket?

The website is NOW OPEN. Please visit https://shipsupply.org/seville-66/ and CTRL-CLICK for full Convention information.

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he beautiful city of Seville is waiting to welcome the ISSA family between October 26th and 27th this year as the host city for the 66th ISSA Annual Convention.

The five star Barceló Sevilla Renacimiento has been chosen as the place where it will all happen. It is well-known for its architecture and design that evokes the Guggenheim Museum in New York, capturing the interest of the visitor at first sight.

This is an important event in the ISSA Calendar as it is the first Convention of Rafael Fernandez’s Presidency and is being held in his beautiful country. Your attendance is most welcome.

We can all look forward to high level networking and debate at the Main Conference.

Then, as mentioned, the highly successful ‘ISSA Meet the Customer’ event will be taking place once again which will follow the programme that pairs ISSA members opposite specially invited procurement officers from our list of ISSA Honorary Members of shipowners and managers.

The Gala Dinner, which will be held in the evening of Sunday October 27th, is a firm favourite of ISSA Convention attendees and offers the perfect opportunity for excellent dining and socialising.

Here are the costs of the Delegate Fees: • ISSA members €990 or €792 (20% discount) for Early Bird bookings before 31.07.24.

• Non-ISSA members €1,100 or €880 (20% discount) for Early Bird bookings before 31.07.24 • Accompanying Persons €775 or €620 (20% discount) for Early Bird bookings before 31.07.24 Please visit the website https://shipsupply.org/ seville-66/ (CTRL and Click for access) where you will see everything you need to know about the event and how to book your tickets and hotel accommodation. u

Editorial credit: Colinmthompson / Shutterstock.com

ISSA 66 Sponsors Bronze Sponsor

Al Baraka Shipchandlers L.L.C

Seven Seas Ltd

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SOPEX Innovations Pte Ltd

WG van der Zanden

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ISSA 66 Seville

ISSA 66 Sponsors

Gala Dinner Cocktail Reception Sponsor

ISSA 66 Sponsors Pentrade FMCG Distribution

Lunch Sponsor

Lanyards

SAIFEE

Black Sea Marine

WIFI Sponsor

Ties

King of Reach

Hosting Association Pedrotec

T-Shirts AESMAR

Conference Session Sponsor Atlas Sea Group

Delegate Bags A.A.H. Alligator B.V.

Simsekler

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Genesis Solutions

Biofouling

Ballast organism transfer and “parasite smuggling” - Not welcome here!

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apt. Harshvardhan Kumar, Executive Marine Surveyor and Loss Adjuster (Nautical, Hull, and Cargo), Charles Taylor, explains the threat From time immemorial, humanity has been in a state of migration, with people and cultures moving across continents, enriching the lands they arrive in with their flavour.

However, when this migration happens with smaller organisms, it may lead to unwelcome situations.

When micro-organisms migrate from their natural habitat to a new location, it gives rise to an imbalance in the new ecosystem, and this can wipe out entire habitats or species.

With ships getting larger by the year, the volume of ballast water transported is also increasing. This ballast water is taken in at the port of discharge and pumped out at the loading port, thereby transferring marine species from one place to another. To minimize these effects, the IMO has implemented numerous regulations and guidelines on how vessels are required to manage ballast water.

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However, the problem of marine growth adhering to the vessels’ hulls remains. Tiny organisms stuck to the vessels’ hulls are also responsible for introducing unwanted species with the same effects, creating similar associated ecological imbalance and economic losses.

Recognising this, the International Maritime Organization introduced in 2011, the Guidelines for the Control and Management of Ships’ Biofouling to minimise the transfer of invasive aquatic species (the Biofouling Guidelines).

New Zealand and Australia have taken steps to introduce measures to control the introduction of such unwanted species into their waters in line with these guidelines.

Australian biofouling management requirements as per the Biosecurity Act 2015 are available in version 2 of the publication of this name by the Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry issued on 1 December 2023.

This has led to an unexpected situation where the vessels are being targeted by criminal minds.

A vessel heading for a port that

Capt. Harshvardhan Kumar

presents a lucrative drug market is targeted and used as a conduit for smuggling that takes place using either the cargo or the ship itself.

There is another method, called “parasite smuggling”, whereby drugs are attached to a vessel’s hull by divers, in any of the numerous cavities underwater at one port, and retrieved at the other end, also by divers. This could be done when the divers are carrying out their inspection as requested by the managers to comply with hull biofouling requirements, or subsequently based on the information obtained.

Modern techniques such as using diving rebreathers are being

Biofouling

utilised giving rise to low noise levels, extended gas endurance, and lack of bubbles visible on the surface masking the tell-tale signs of divers. Keeping a close watch on the vessel’s surroundings while in high-risk ports only has a limited effect as the divers attaching the packages go undetected for no lack of vigilance by the vessel.

The returns are so lucrative that it is believed that the same diver who places the package in the ship’s cavities at the port of origin, later flies to the other end of the world where the vessel calls and extracts the package. Monitoring vessels through vessel tracking applications that are freely available, makes the vessels more susceptible to such targeting. There is also the added problem: that any vessel that has carried out underwater cleaning is less likely to be inspected in Australia and New Zealand as the authorities would accept the cleaning records provided to not inspect the vessel.

There is a recent increase in seizures and incidents in Australia where consignments with street values running into millions

are found in the hull cavities of vessels. There have been a few deaths reported where the diver recovering the concealed package died due to faulty diving equipment. Sealed packages of drugs routinely keep washing ashore on the beaches.

As global drug syndicates become aware of the requirement for underwater inspection, more and more ships may be targeted. and shipowners and managers need to be ever more vigilant in this regard.

Only reliable and vetted diving companies should be employed to carry out underwater inspections and cleaning. The vessel’s schedule

makes it difficult to appoint reliable diving companies as underwater inspection and cleaning would need to be carried out anywhere, whether convenient or not. Many countries already provide for a predeparture underwater inspection of the hull with the video recording being given to the master as evidence of having a clean hull.

Utilising such options before departing from high-risk ports could go a long way in discouraging such targeting of innocent vessels.

Managers and owners must consult with their P&I clubs for up-to-date information and guidance when their vessel visits high-risk areas. u

Mobile parasite: a close-up

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Debt Management

Riding the ship managers’ rodeo

By Roger Symes, Director, Marine Debt Management

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n the last issue of ‘The Ship Supplier,’ I focused on efforts by some of the largest ship managers to raise standards through their trade association, InterManager. Now I want to examine what a new bread of small ship management companies are up to.

Suppliers are familiar with two types of ship manager. Firstly, those owned by a particular ship owner and only managing vessels on their behalf. Secondly, third-party ship managers, who manage ships for multiple, unrelated ship owners.

Third-party ship managers have typically grown organically and through acquisitions. As they increase in size, staff may leave to start their own ship management businesses. In a familiar scenario, a Superintendent looking to establish his own business, will first ensure a ship owning client of his current employer is ready to transfer vessels to his new company.

This gives the start up business steady income from day one. The vessels are already familiar to the owning Superintendent. He will already have established contacts

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with suppliers, whom he can assure will receive regular business, if they grant the same terms *to him as agreed with his previous employer.

The new ship management company grows from this sold base, attracting new ship owning clients. This leads to greater long-term stability, as the company ceases to be reliant upon a single customer. Many of the biggest ship management companies started in this way and, in turn, have seen staff leave to start their own businesses.

However, in recent years, a new type of ship manager has appeared, one that poses significant risks for ship suppliers. This type of ship manager also acts on a third-party basis, its ownership being unrelated to that of the vessels it manages.

Such companies are established at the behest of owners whose vessels are employed in restricted trading patterns. They avoid ports where levels of supervision are high and frequently conduct cargo operations by ship-toship (STS) transfers.

Such owners would fail the due diligence checks performed by established ship management companies, hence the need to entice individuals to form new management companies. With numerous such companies established, ships can be transferred between them as often as necessary to evade attention from regulatory authorities and/or creditors.

The ship managers know they must do their clients’ bidding.

This can include trading vessels with false registrations, surveys overdue and even without insurance. Laws and regulations need not be followed, as long as the vessels keep to trades where these are not enforced.

These ship management companies must ride the rodeo, clinging tightly to their one ship owning client until tossed aside, as soon as the latter decides it is time to move on, usually after 12-24 months.

We have been contacted by ship suppliers tempted to ride the rodeo with ship managers working for such owners. Personal relationships often caused the suppliers to overlook their usual enquiries before granting credit.

Large debts quickly built up but now the ship owner has moved on. Vessel names, registration, legal ownership and management have all changed, leaving former managers out of pocket and unable to settle with angry creditors.

Owners are unconcerned and may even celebrate their “bandit” status.

Whilst new customers are essential, every ship supplier needs to think twice before saddling up for the rodeo. What appears exciting can lead to a nasty fall. u

Food & Beverage Everyone on board will relish that authentic Filipino taste

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t’s a well known fact that a large number of Filipino nationals are to be founding crewing the global fleet Far from home for extended periods anything that appeals to the palate of this significant group is surely to be welcomed.

Oh – and it is not just to Filipino taste; everyone else on board can sample and enjoy this delicious range of meals and flavours.

When we wanted to feature and highlight this important sector we approached Nida Philippine Products B.V., a well known Wholesaler registered in The Netherlands supplying a wide variety of deep frozen premium Philippine meat products throughout Europe.

Established in August 2017, a prior decade-long tradition of sharing Philippine food with friends and family transformed into an officially registered venture, dedicated to bringing the familiar – and some not so familiar – flavours of Philippine cuisine to the discerning maritime community palate.

The firm’s main objective is to bring locally popular and nostalgic delicacies of authentic quality from their

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homeland to people from The Philippines living and working abroad.

Adding to the mix is the comfort of familiar flavours – itself a direct fusion of indigenous ingredients with the character and diversity of the Philippine islands as well as capturing its historic influence.

Over the years, the company has grown into a well-established brand with products available in (Asian) supermarkets, restaurants, toko’s and stores throughout Europe.

Currently expansion to the U.S.A. is under way by this dynamic and successful operation.

The key for the ship supply sector is that Nida also supplies large volumes of its tasty offerings to ship suppliers in Europe and China.

A Company spokesman said: “The recipes of all of our products are based on the original taste of Pampanga.

“Pampanga is the province in The Philippines which, according to the Filipino community, produces the best artisanal quality, authenticity and taste in its food.

Food & Beverage

“We currently have 23 frozen meat products in our range, highly appreciated by Philippine crews on seagoing vessels, as well as non-Filipinos.

The Barbecue is a favourite all over the world and The Philippines is no exception.

The Spokesman continued (whetting our appetite!): “Our Party-Sized Cocktail Hotdogs are one of our most popular items, great when Football is on or at popular on-board Movie Nights as well as Birthday Parties.”

The Company is nothing if not imaginative when it comes to how to present different dishes for different occasions and not just for daily consumption.

The range on offer includes side dishes for Burgers & Fries, Independence Day (both the Philippines and the American one), or on the Grill.

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Food & Beverage

Seafaring being a 24/365 operation Nida’s menu offerings also cater for Day Time-Lunch Breaks or Midnight Fridge-Raids.

The firm’s Spokeman added: “Ketchup’s Greatest Partner. Most Versatile Hotdog. Tiny in size, but huge in flavor.” - truly a committed champion of their successful brand!

On board chefs and catering staff might also

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ponder how they can use the large variety of options available to include Sizzling Grill and BBQ additions; Nida’s ‘Great for Every Occasion’ Longganisa Slices; Great on or in Toasted-Subs, Club Sandwiches, Breakfast Burritos, Pasta, Wraps, Tacos, Pitas, Naan Bread, Salted Almond Waffles with Egg, Tzatziki Lasagna, Salmon Rolls, Tuna & Egg Scrambles and Air Fried Spiced Potato Quiches.

A recent addition is the Company’s modern day take on a traditional “standout” is the introduction of a spicier version of Meatloaf.

Here the firm has let its imagination run wild and suggests pairing with Spaghetti, Fusilli, Penne, Ravioli, Fettuccine, Frittatas, in Mini Sliders, as Pizza Toppings, or for Thanksgiving.

Enough, surely to vary the offerings on board and ensure that variety is the spice not just of life but of eating at sea the Filipino way!

Bon appetit! u

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ISSA and Ship Supply News

Wrist Ship Supply Executive Management Left to right: Anders Skipper, Jens Holger Nielsen and Peder Winther

Wrist posts increased growth and continues its major digital investments

I

SSA Member Wrist, a world-wide leader in maritime supplies, services and logistics, has demonstrated robust financial results and strategic advancement in 2023.

Reporting on the past year and despite market uncertainties, the firm has continued to grow and invest in digitalization and supply chain simplicity.

Expansion and innovation are declared aims going forward.

Subdued demand for maritime supplies in certain regions did have an impact on Wrist’s financial performance. This was due, the firm says, to its comparatively high market shares in the affected geographical areas.

Jens Holger Nielsen, Wrist’s Group CEO added: “We are committed to our strategic vision, making significant investments in our infrastructure and digital capabilities to position ourselves for future growth.”

Last year Wrist generated revenue of DKK5.5bn up 3% from 2022. Gross profit increased to DKK1,578m from DKK 1,510m in 2022. The 4% gross profit was mainly due to higher demand, increased margins in selected markets and changes in the business mix.

Operating profit (EBITA) was DKK 230.9m compared to DKK 240.9m in the previous year.

A like-for-like comparison of EBITA for 2022 and 2023 uncovered a decrease of 4.2% (or DKK 10m)

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ISSA and Ship Supply News

as the result of modest revenue growth and significant investments in new distribution centres, digitalization, as well as people capabilities announced the Company.

The Group’s equity stood at DKK 1,128m at the end of last year – up DKK 62m compared to 2022.

Building upon a strong performance in 2022, Wrist remained steadfast in the pursuit of innovative solutions and sustainable practices to meet evolving customer demands and to navigate changing market dynamics, continued the Company’s statement.

Wrist’s ambitious group strategy, dubbed CONNECT 2027, aims at re-designing and digitalizing the business to deliver enhanced solutions to customers. With this strategy the firm accelerates the digital transformation of maritime supplies, including the continuous development of the digital marketplace, Source2|Sea.

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In addition, this paves the way for an accelerated M&A Programme, created to fuel growth.

Mr Nielsen commented: “With our strategic focus, we already reported significant milestones throughout the Group.

“We have taken on board the first key customer with 680 vessels on the Source2Sea marine supply platform and added yet another 600 vessels on Gateway, our digital end-to-end catering platform.

“The future maritime supply industry is set on digitalization, sustainability and supply chain simplicity, and this year we will continue feeding data and technology into our solutions, whilst transforming our supply chain according to our sustainability aspirations.” u www.wrist.com

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ISSA and Ship Supply News

Geoff Marchant 10th November 1935 – 7th April 2024

F

ormer ISSA President, Captain Geoffrey Marchant, has died at the age of 88.

Captain Marchant – always known as Geoff – was elected to the ISSA Presidency in 1996 for a three-year term commencing 1st January 1999.

He arrived in the top ISSA role at a delicate time for the Association but relished the task ahead and quickly made significant changes to stabilise matters.

Geoff was born on 10th November 1935 and joined the British Merchant Navy at the age of 16.

Remarkably, by the time he was 26 he had gained his Master’s Ticket and remained an active seafarer until 1968 – spanning some 17 years.

What tempted him from the sea in 1968 was an offer from P & O to undertake Health & Safety checks on vessels in the fleet.

In 1984 he moved to Hong Kong, working for Jardine Matheson until 1987.

It was then that he moved back to UK permanently to take up the significant post of Managing Director of the well-known ship supply business Hutton’s.

Ship supply – the early years In 2000 he was on the move again to join Ferriby Marine in the challenging world of Health & Safety checks and quality control.

After nine years he established his own business GAM Marine Ltd specializing in ISO and Quality matters until his retirement in 2017.

His devotion to ISSA was palpable and soon after he stepped down from the ISSA Presidency he embarked on

At Bergen Convention with Liz and friends As ISSA President with Rocky Rocksborough-Smith (then Senior Executive Vice-President).

Convention Devotee as ISSA President

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ISSA and Ship Supply News With ISSA friends

what will always be his legacy for ship suppliers: the devising and launching of the ISSA Quality Programme.

No-one could be more suited to the role as he had become immersed in Health & Safety and – importantly too – ISO matters such that he regularly trained students to take on the roles of Internal and Lead Auditors.

The ISSA Quality Programme was no easy task to fulfil.

Carefully and patiently, he educated the wider ISSA family on the benefits they would receive if they embraced what was being offered.

The ISSA Quality Programme takes its lead and legitimacy from ISO 9001 together with elements of the ISPS Code and the ISM Code.

Over the following years Geoff visited many ISSA countries and audited several hundred aspiring Quality Members under the detailed Programme he had published.

A key to his success was his infinite patience with those students struggling to grasp the core features of the Programme. He was always sympathetic and took pains to ensure success was almost always achieved.

By 2019 Geoff was ready to hand over the reins to his young successor (James Slattery) who continues to keep the ISSA Quality Flag flying proudly.

Away from professional life Geoff continued his role as a polymath: from golf to serious mountain walking; Bridge to classic cars – the list of his interests was endless.

One of his major accolades was being made a Freeman of the City of London for his immense work for the shipping industry.

Although discussed, he did not drive a flock of sheep across London Bridge although he had the right so to do!

Geoff was one of the giants of ISSA and did much to boost the reputation of ship supply and bring many benefits to members world-wide.

A kind and generous man he always had a twinkle in his eye and relished meeting friends old and new at the many ISSA Conventions staged around the world that he enthusiastically attended.

His contributions to ship supply, in particular, survive his passing and form a lasting legacy for which ISSA and its global family are truly grateful. u

The Golfer

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OCEAN Report

Why the key results of the OCEAN Board Meeting in Europe should matter to all ship suppliers worldwide The OCEAN Family with EU Guests visit operational ship supply firm

A

round 20 European ship supply associations, all ISSA members, from Turkey to The Netherlands, from Portugal to Sweden, met in Antwerpen for the annual Spring Board meeting - an opportunity to exchange views and discuss political developments that impact our ship supply industry.

The meeting was also a social opportunity to rekindle friendships and grow networks and personal contacts. “Yes, sometimes we could be also in competition, but working together and collaborating to exchange views on how to manage the regulatory burden and learn from best practice examples is invaluable,” said Costantino Zavoianni, Chair of OCEAN. Wednesday saw the third meeting of OCEAN’s Sustainability Working Group, which addressed new EU laws such as the Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism (CBAM), deforestation laws, single-use plastic regulations, and sustainability efforts by ship suppliers in general.

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On Thursday, the 36th CEVVT Working Group meeting was held. The focus was on tobacco and alcohol deliveries to seagoing vessels and cruise ships. Learning about the latest developments in these fields was a great opportunity such as the updates received by Sub-Chairs on EU position on Excise, VAT, Veterinary.

Finally, the OCEAN Board meeting on Friday yielded several critical results that will shape the future of the ship supply industry in Europe. They included:

1. Approval of a Sponsorship Programme: A new Sponsorship Programme was approved to increase OCEAN’s income and expand its initiatives.

2. Approval of the UCC Position Paper: The OCEAN Board unanimously approved the UCC Position Paper, which was subsequently presented to the EU Commission. This document is crucial for advocating reforms in the EU Customs Code to benefit ship suppliers.

OCEAN Report

3. A professional visit to a Belgian ship supply company.

This was a great occasion to show to the institutional OCEAN’s guests from EU Commission the real life of a ship supplier company and its daily challenges The success of OCEAN in Europe underscores the potential benefits of forming similar regional associations worldwide. ISSA President Rafael Fernandez has expressed a strong commitment to extending this collaborative model beyond Europe, urging the creation of regional groups in Asia, North and South America, Africa, and the MENA region.

Why Global Regional Groups?

1. Streamlined Customs Procedures: Ship suppliers globally face similar challenges with complex customs regulations, especially when delivering to foreign ports. Regional associations can work towards harmonizing these procedures, reducing delays, and cutting costs.

2. Optimal Use of Trade Agreements: Trade agreements like

USMCA in North America, Mercosur in South America, AfCFTA in Africa, and ASEAN in Asia offer unique opportunities. Regional groups can help members fully exploit these agreements for smoother trade flows and reduced tariffs.

3. Sustainability Initiatives: As sustainability becomes a global imperative, regional associations can share best practices, develop joint initiatives, and advocate for regulations that support sustainable ship supply operations.

4. Enhanced Communication and Collaboration: Improved communication among members is crucial for addressing common issues effectively. Regional associations can foster better relationships, share knowledge, and collaborate on industry challenges more efficiently.

As we move forward, the establishment of these regional associations, supported by ISSA, will play a crucial role in shaping the future of the global ship supply industry. By working together, we can ensure that our industry remains robust, efficient, and sustainable in an ever-changing global landscape. u https://shipsupply.eu/

ISSA President Rafael Fernandez (second from left) joins the OCEAN deliberations

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Market News Thordon Bearings clinches deal with Mexican Navy that reduces waterjet impeller cavitation damage

A

second major Mexican Navy contract has been announced by Thordon Bearings for the supply of its water-lubricated SXL wear rings for retrofit installation to the waterjet propulsion nozzles on 25 interceptor patrol vessels.

The contract follows the success of extensive trials in which the SXL material replaced the use of other anticorrosive coatings in waterjet impeller housings, resulting in increased resistance to cavitation induced corrosion.

Rotary Parts, Thordon’s authorised distributor in Mexico, is supplying the housings for 25 Polaris and Polaris II fast patrol boats. The scope of supply is for 440mm (15.8in) outside diameter, 160mm (6.3in) long SXL wear rings for each impeller housing.

Installation is taking place during routine drydocking at various Mexican Navy sites along both the Pacific and Gulf coasts.

“We received an initial contract in May 2023 for 50 SXL wear rings and this has now been followed by a second contract for another 75 units,” said William Lugardo, Thordon Specialist at Rotary Parts.

“As soon as the main contract was confirmed, we began with the impeller housing repairs to ensure the optimum surface area prior to machining Thordon SXL material. We have completed the first batch of SXL wear ring installations and are now working on the second.”

Mr Lugardo explained Rotary Parts recommended the use of the SXL material to replace the coating system of the impeller housing the better to protect the surface area against corrosion and propeller cavitation.

Typically, the inner housing of a waterjet impeller needs a re-coat every three months to maintain propulsion efficiency.

“They tried using different types of coatings but without success,” he said.

Tests carried out before contract signing demonstrated the longevity of Thordon’s water-lubricated polymer technology, Lugardo confirmed.

“The Thordon material did not show any wear or damage.

A year after the first tests, it is still resisting cavitation and has improved waterjet efficiency for these vessels. The material better protects not only the propeller housing but also propeller blades and tips, potentially reducing the overall waterjet maintenance spend.”

Jeffrey Butt, Thordon Bearings’ Business Development Manager, Navy & Coast Guard, said: “Thordon Bearings is a major supplier of advanced polymer solutions to the Mexican Navy but this is the first time our advanced SXL material has been used to replace costly anti-corrosion coatings in waterjet vessels. “We were delighted the trials have been successful.

Winning this order is confirmation of Naval Secretariat SEMAR’s continued confidence in our proprietary technology.” u www.thordonbearings.com

Thordon’s SXL material as a wear ring can replace costly anticorrosive coatings in the impeller housings of waterjet propulsion systems

Issue 101 2024 | The Ship Supplier | 53

Market News

Greensea IQ inks major contract with BUVI Scandinavia

A

second major Mexican Navy contract has been announced by Thordon Bearings for the supply of its water-lubricated SXL wear rings for retrofit installation to the waterjet propulsion nozzles on 25 interceptor patrol vessels.

The contract follows the success of extensive trials in which the SXL material replaced the use of other anti-corrosive coatings in waterjet impeller housings, resulting in increased resistance to cavitation induced corrosion.

Rotary Parts, Thordon’s authorised distributor in Mexico, is supplying the housings for 25 Polaris and Polaris II fast patrol boats. The scope of supply is for 440mm (15.8in) outside diameter, 160mm (6.3in) long SXL wear rings for each impeller housing.

Installation is taking place during routine drydocking at various Mexican Navy sites along both the Pacific and Gulf coasts.

“We received an initial contract in May 2023 for 50 SXL wear rings and this has now been followed by

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a second contract for another 75 units,” said William Lugardo, Thordon Specialist at Rotary Parts.

“As soon as the main contract was confirmed, we began with the impeller housing repairs to ensure the optimum surface area prior to machining Thordon SXL material. We have completed the first batch of SXL wear ring installations and are now working on the second.”

Mr Lugardo explained Rotary Parts recommended the use of the SXL material to replace the coating system of the impeller housing the better to protect the surface area against corrosion and propeller cavitation.

Typically, the inner housing of a waterjet impeller needs a re-coat every three months to maintain propulsion efficiency.

“They tried using different types of coatings but without success,” he said.

Tests carried out before contract signing demonstrated the longevity of Thordon’s waterlubricated polymer technology, Lugardo confirmed.

“The Thordon material did not show any wear or

Market News

The handshake secures the deal between Greensea IQ and BUVI Scandinavia

damage. A year after the first tests, it is still resisting cavitation and has improved waterjet efficiency for these vessels.

The material better protects not only the propeller housing but also propeller blades and tips, potentially reducing the overall waterjet maintenance spend.”

Jeffrey Butt, Thordon Bearings’ Business Development Manager, Navy & Coast Guard, said: “Thordon Bearings is a major supplier of advanced polymer solutions to the Mexican Navy but this is the first time our advanced SXL material has been used to replace costly anti-corrosion coatings in waterjet vessels. “We were delighted the trials have been successful.

Winning this order is confirmation of Naval Secretariat SEMAR’s continued confidence in our proprietary technology.” u www.thordonbearings.com

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Market News

Major outfitting contract for Damen Marine Components

D

amen Marine Components has been contracted by Royal Bodewes to supply steering, control and propulsion equipment for four vessels, to be delivered to the shipyard’s clients in the coming two years.

The contracts mark the continued strong working relationship between DMC and Royal Bodewes. 2024 will be another productive year in the history of co-operation between the two companies.

The first contract is for the steering gear and bridge controls for an 87-metre long Ro-Ro vessel currently under construction at the Royal Bodewes shipyard

Royal Bodewes Cargo Vessel

Market News

in Hoogezand, the Netherlands. DMC expects to deliver this project within the next two months, ready for vessel commissioning later this year.

The remaining contracts are for the steering gear, bridge controls and propeller nozzles for three 120-metre Bodewes Eco Traders (9000DWT general cargo vessels).

One of the most notable aspects that these four contracts have in common is the steering gear; an electric-hydraulic driven system which controls the position of the ship’s rudder.

“We have designed our steering gear with a plug-and-play philosophy,” says DMC Sales Manager Marnix de Bruijn.

“This means that we manufacture and install the equipment onto a skid in our own factory in HardinxveldGiessendam, the Netherlands. There it can be FAT tested, witnessed by a class surveyor as required, before it is placed on board the ship. All Royal Bodewes has to do is to connect the hydraulic and electrical supply – this saves a lot of time and energy on board.”

“We have had a good working relationship with Damen Marine Components for a long time,” says Royal Bodewes Business Development Manager Martijn Beunk.

“We have worked with them on numerous projects and their excellent price-quality ratio is one of the reasons for that. Furthermore, the DMC team are always available for advice and consultation during our design and engineering process.”

Marnix De Bruijn continued: “We are proud to be working with Royal Bodewes on this Ro-Ro ship and the three coastal cargo vessels. We aim to help them wherever possible by aligning our products and operations to match their shipbuilding strategy, which is highly efficient, and look forward to our continued collaboration.” u www.damenmc.com

Out & About We bring you the dates of significant maritime events…

August 2024 • Northern Hemisphere holiday period

September 2024

• • • • •

Black & Caspian Sea Ports & Logistics 2024 (Constanta, Romania) 2nd to 4th July SMM Hamburg (Germany): 3rd to 6th September Asia Shipping Decarbonisation Summit (Singapore) 10th & 11th September Saudi Maritime & Logistics Congress (Dharan, KSA) 18th & 19th September Maritime Decarbonisation, Europe (Amsterdam) 24th & 25th September

October 2024

• • • • •

SNAME 2024 Maritime Convention (Norfolk, Virginia, USA) 14th to 16th October Breakbulk Americas (Houston, Texas, USA) 15th to 17th October 30th Maritime HR and Crew Management Summit (London, UK) 16th & 17th October Asean Ports & Logistics 2024 (Bahru, Johor, Malaysia) 22nd to 24th October ISSA 66 Convention & Trade Exhibition (Seville, Spain): 26th & 27th October 2024

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Play Artificial Intelligence – probably the next big thing Since the maritime industry continues to embrace the many technological advances on offer we thought we would look at Artificial Intelligence (AI) and reflect the wider view of this emerging wolf in sheep’s clothing.

Possibly the biggest of the technology trends in recent times is that you didn’t need to scroll far before Artificial Learning (AI) appeared on your news feed. No longer a sci-fi storyline, AI and Machine Learning can be utilised efficiently throughout business operations in a variety of ways.

AI trends such as ChatGPT and DALL-E have provided new avenues in market research and trend analysis, whilst Generative AI and synthetic data have created real-world scenarios and testing environments for cyber security measures to run.

Clearly, the possibilities of AI seem endless right now.

But is it safe?

If you look at Hollywood over the years they have embraced the sentient computer as a significant threat to humanity – remember Wargames?

Governments are finally waking up to a possible threat from the rogue computer but as with all technology history sounds a warning about the ease with which it can be mis-used.

According to Tamlyn Hunt at Scientific American (www.scientificamerican.com) many AI experts harbour serious worries about the fast pace of this emerging science and are already sounding warnings.

We thought you would like to ponder this development.

Lead kindly light Cassandra Jenkins is back with a new album, her first for her new label home, Dead Oceans.

The singer-songwriter has revealed that My Light, My Destroyer, her follow-up to 2021’s An Overview on Phenomenal Nature, is due out July 12.

My Light, My Destroyer is Jenkins’ third studio album, and it features a long list of collaborators: producer Andrew Lappin, Palehound’s El Kempner, Hand Habits’ Meg Duffy, Daniel McDowell, Isaac Eiger, Katie Von Schleicher, Zoë Brecher, Josh Kaufman, Stephanie Marziano, and more.

©Gramophone Magazine and Author: Hugo Shirley

www.pitchfork.com ©

A cause for wonder Elisabeth Leonskaja’s live performances of the Schumann and Grieg piano concertos have been cause for wonder. The rolling movement over the keyboard in the Schumann and a far from note-perfect Grieg with the Estonian Festival Orchestra in Parnu still only went to prove the mistake of replacing her at the BBC Proms later that summer with Khatia Buniatishvili, a brilliant but wayward pianist with none of the same grip on the dance music.

Here it’s obvious which is the deeper work because of the chamber music Leonskaja makes with the excellent woodwind soloists of Michael Sanderling’s Lucerne Symphony Orchestra in Schumann’s first movement. The Intermezzo is a true dialogue with the players, the finale more Beethovenesque, but lightened by the ripple effect following in the wake of the fantasy march in the finale. Sanderling over indulges the cellos at the heart of the work, and makes slightly heavy work of Grieg’s lyrical countersubject in his first movement; but Leonskaja always energises even the lyrical – Grieg’s slow movement is a good case in point. © David Nice www.classical-music.com Issue 101 2024 | The Ship Supplier | 59

After Hours Just in time for the Presidential Election A subversive love story set against the political polarisation of America, Cecilia Rabess’s Everything’s Fine is a funny and punchy debut. Jess – Black and liberal – immediately dislikes her Ivy League college classmate Josh – white and conservative – but when they find themselves working in the same company after graduating, a cantankerous friendship turns into a passionate relationship.

Set against the backdrop of Trump’s presidential campaign, the novel explores if ideological opposites can be together – with its most heated moments taking place over arguments about Maga hats, wealth inequality and wokeism. Commenting perceptively on politics and economics, Rabess’s writing is just as enthralling on lust and sex. Concluding on the eve of the 2016 election, the novel questions whether love really can conquer. In our view it is just as topical and relevant to the upcoming 2024 election.

Everything’s Fine’ by Cecilia Rabess, published by Simon & Schuster Paperback edition released June 2024 With thanks to The Independent (London) ©

Worth the effort

Image acknowledgement: Le Photographe du Dimanche/Alluma

At first glance, Alluma may seem like an outlier on the Rue St. Maur stretch of the 11th arrondissement, known most for its natural wine bars and street food joints. But this elegant neo-bistro from the Israeli chef Lirin Tal and his wife Noa has deservedly found its crowd with a vibrant ode to Levantine flavours – on and off the plate. With the help of Name Architecture, the couple brightened up an 860-square-foot former Moroccan restaurant. The most colourful elements come from Tal’s seasonal five-course tasting menu, best experienced at dinner.

Don’t skip out on the wine pairing that showcases an exquisite, mostly organic selection from France, Spain, Italy, and Armenia. ©Lindsey Tramuta Alluma – Paris alluma-paris.com 151 rue Saint-Maur, 75011 Paris Tuesday to Saturday 19h30 to 23h30

‘¡Viva La Vida!’ at Grand Palais Immersif, Paris She’s undoubtedly the most famous Mexican artist in the world, but how well do we really know Frida Kahlo? This exhibition at Paris’ Grand Palais Immersive promises to answer all our questions by literally immersing us in the inner world of this inspiring creator. The Parisian stop of this touring exhibition (which has won 14 awards) retraces Kahlo’s rich and tumultuous life through 360-degree projections, artworks, photos and documents, all informed by her diary.

From September 18, 2024 to March 2, 2025 Paris’ Grand Palais With thanks to Zoé Terouinard Journaliste, Time Out Paris ©

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