In two years, Turkish-based CAPRAMAR Ship Management has established a reputation as a highly innovative and forward-thinking operator. Co-Owner and Managing Director Canatay Yilmaz discussed the latest developments, in an exclusive interview with Inside Marine. Report by Colin Chinery.
Istanbul is the only city in the world connecting two continents and two seas. It is here on one of the great trade routes – with a third continent, nearby Africa, poised to become a global shipping hub – that the fast-growing CAPRAMAR Ship Management is based.
Founded only two years ago, it has quickly established a reputation as a forward-thinking management company.
A comprehensive ‘we do all’ portfolio extends across technical, crew, sale and purchase management to safety, security and investment. Maintenance and repair services are also available for a wide variety of ships from dry cargo vessels, tankers, and Ro-Ro to LPG/LNG ships, livestock carriers, dredgers and offshore vessels.
Exceeding expectations
As a result, CAPRAMAR is delivering safe, focused, efficient, cost-effective and high-quality services organised to exceed client expectations.
“Our success is built on a foundation of trust, integrity and dedication to our clients, employees and the environment,” Co-Owner and Managing Director Canatay Yilmaz said.
In a little over 12 months, CAPRAMAR has doubled its fleet from 10 to 20 vessels; a remarkable strategic expansion, comple menting its existing fleet while offering a wider range of services to clients.
“It’s an expansion reflecting our commitment to providing top-notch ship management services as well as our confidence in the maritime industry’s future prospects,” Mr Yilmaz explained.
Significant fleet expansion has also seen the company acquire ownership of a vessel – a development the Managing Director sees as having a definite and positive impact on its capabilities: “It has provided us with greater control over the management and operations of that vessel, allowing us to optimise its performance and efficiency to better meet the needs of our clients.
“Additionally, owning a vessel enhances our reputation and credibility in the industry, further solidifying our position as a leading ship management company.”
Other milestones along a fast-track rise to prominence include the expansion of its service range to encompass technical and financial feasibility studies, as well as strengthening relationships with partners and suppliers.
Safety a top priority
With safety one of the top issues at June’s Posidonia event in Athens – set to be the largest ever with 40,000 visitors and well over 2,000 exhibitors –CAPRAMAR’s enhancement training programme for both onshore and offshore crew members is another marker.
“We have made significant progress in improving safety measures and
emergency preparedness across our operations,” Mr Yilmaz said.
With the theme ‘Powering Ahead’ the biennial event will provide attendees with insights from industry leaders and key exhibitors on numerous topics, including the need for technological integration and the adoption of artificial intelligence. It is clear that shipping is on the cusp of a transformative era, with the rise of artificial intelligence (AI). At Posidonia, insights from key exhibitors are expected to reveal a new landscape for the sector. In response, industry leaders will be required to strategically align with the inexorable rise of AI.
According to Bureau Veritas: “AI is already being adopted by the shipping industry. AI investment rates leave little doubt that AI is becoming a key enabler in the digitalisation of the shipping industry, offering benefits such as reduced costs, less risk, reduced emissions, improved forecasting and faster deliveries.”
These are all issues on CAPRAMAR’s radar, with sustainability another joint priority for Posidonia and CAPRAMAR.
“Sustainability is a key priority for CAPRAMAR Ship Management,” continued Mr Yilmaz. “We continuously strive to reduce our environmental footprint and promote sustainable practices.”
Towards a greener industry
Recent initiatives at CAPRAMAR include i nvesting in eco-friendly technologies, optimising vessel operations to minimise fuel consumption and implementing recycling and waste reduction measure s onboard vessels.
“Looking ahead, we are exploring additional opportunities to enhance
our sustainability efforts and contribute to a greener maritime industry,” said Mr Yilmaz.
Posidonia 2024 will see the company showcasing the latest advancements, discussing industry trends and networking with key stakeholders
“We aim to leverage this platform to forge new partnerships, explore potential business opportunities and reaffirm our commitment to excellence in ship management,” Mr Yilmaz continued. “Attending in-person events and conferences like Posidonia offers numerous benefits, including networking opportunities, knowledge sharing and industry visibility. It allows us to connect with industry peers, exchange ideas and stay updated on the latest developments and innovations.
“And, of course, participating in such events helps us enhance our brand reputation and showcase our capabilities to a wider audience.”
Two years into the CAPRAMAR story, its Managing Director is a highly motivated man.
“What excites me the most about my r ole at CAPRAMAR Ship Management is the opportunity to drive positive change and make a meaningful impact in the maritime industry,” said Mr Yilmaz. “Every day presents new challenges and opportunities for innovation and growth, and I am eager to collaborate with our talented team and industry partners to overcome obstacles and achieve our strategic objectives.
“Knowing that our work contributes to the safety, efficiency and sustainability of maritime operations motivates me to come to the office with enthusiasm and determination each morning.”
Close bond with suppliers
Close collaboration with its valued suppliers and partners is integral to CAPRAMAR’s forward-thinking,
safety-focused approach to ship management. “We work together to implement best practices, leverage cutting-edge technologies and prioritise safety and environmental sustainability,” Mr Yilmaz explained. “We have several noteworthy projects and charters underway, including strategic collaborations with leading shipping companies and charterers.
“While confidentiality agreements prevent us from disclosing specific details, rest assured, these initiatives align with our commitment to delivering superior ship management solutions and driving sustainable growth in the maritime sector.”
Looking ahead to developments in the rest of 2024, CAPRAMAR Ship Management is poised for another busy and exciting period.
“We have ambitious growth plans, including expanding our fleet further, diversifying our service offerings, and strengthening our market presence
globally,” said Mr Yilmaz. “In addition, we will continue to focus on enhancing operational efficiency, fostering innovation and delivering value to our clients and stakeholders, alongside our unwavering commitment to excellence, safety and sustainability in everything we do.
“CAPRAMAR team members – both at sea and ashore – are highly motivated and work to promote and support this commitment at all levels within their area of responsibility. We work as a team to achieve continual improvement and cost-effective services.
“Our success at CAPRAMAR Ship Management is built on trust, integrity, the pursuit of excellence, dedication to our clients and employees, and respect for the environment. As we continue to navigate the dynamic and evolving maritime landscape, we remain steadfast in our pursuit of innovation, continuous improvement and customer satisfaction.” n
